Professional Launch Episode 021: Matt Helander

professional launch

In this episode of Professional Launch, Ricot Aladin sits down with Matt Helander, Managing Director of a Fargo-based recruiting firm, to talk about career pivots, networking, and the realities of today’s job market. Matt shares his journey from IT to recruiting, the skills that carried over, and the biggest lessons learned from 13+ years of helping professionals and companies find the right fit.

The conversation dives into:

  • Why networking still trumps résumés in landing opportunities

  • How to build trust and long-term career relationships

  • The rise of AI in recruiting (and the risks of “too-perfect” résumés)

  • The most in-demand industries in Fargo right now

  • Résumé strategies: when to use a “first impression” résumé vs. a detailed one

  • Top mistakes job seekers make in interviews (and how to avoid them)

Matt also reflects on mentorship, the value of chasing what you enjoy sooner rather than later, and why expanding your network is the most powerful investment you can make in your career.

 

The Coffee Club: “September 11th, 2025. We remember” 9-11-25

The Coffee Club on AM 970 and FM 93.1 WDAY

The Coffee Club from Thursday Sept 11th, 2025.  We remember the day our country was attacked by terrorists 24 years ago today and how we still defend her against foreign and domestic terrorists today.  Guests include Melissa Morkeman and Adriana Drusini plus Mark Johnson and Cody Cashman plus Tom from Morton Buildings.

 

Big Iron! pt2

WAG: Weather and Ag In Focus on AM 970 and FM 93.1 WDAY

Watch Weather & Ag in focus LIVE! 🌾

💬Leave a comment, 📞 701-293-9000, or 🌐 weather@flagfamily.com or AG@flagfamily.com

Join WDAY Ag Director Bridgette Readel & Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki as they break down Weather and Agriculture topics.

 

Talk of the Town with Jon Adams: Faith, Football, and 68 Years of Love

Talk of the Town with Jon Adams - Wednesdays 11am to 12pm on AM 970 and FM 93.1 WDAY

In this heartfelt episode of Talk of the Town, Jon Adams blends community, sports, and family into a rich conversation that will leave you smiling, thinking, and maybe even calling your spouse to say “I love you.” 💜

Jon kicks off with the Vikings’ rollercoaster of a game, dives into the Brantners’ remarkable 68 years of marriage (and the wisdom that comes with it), and circles back to local college football, high school sports, and why investing in our youth matters for Fargo’s future.

You’ll hear stories of frozen lakes, Dairy Queen Blizzards shared in tough times, and what it really means to put your spouse first. Whether you’re a Vikings diehard, a Dragon alum, or just someone who loves hearing about real community heroes, this episode will hit home.

Standout Moments:

  • 0:00 – Vikings’ shaky start and why fans panicked early.

  • 2:08 – Celebrating the Brantners’ 68th wedding anniversary.

  • 6:07 – Mr. Brantner’s #1 rule for marriage: faithfulness.

  • 7:47 – Prayer, patience, and forgiveness in long-lasting love.

  • 8:18 – Mrs. Brantner on why marriage is hard work (and worth it).

  • 10:42 – JJ McCarthy proves his poise at just 22 years old.

  • 13:34 – Building athletic programs that create high-character students.

  • 17:59 – The crisis in high school sports participation and funding.

  • 23:47 – Mrs. Brantner’s surprising perspective on living together before marriage.

  • 25:11 – The importance of family affection and showing love openly.

  • 34:57 – Jon’s three keys to a happy marriage: selflessness, prayer, and grace.

  • 36:35 – Closing with card games, community, and a rally cry: Go Bison, go Dragons, go Cobbers!

 

Big Iron!

WAG: Weather and Ag In Focus on AM 970 and FM 93.1 WDAY

Watch Weather & Ag in focus LIVE! 🌾

💬Leave a comment, 📞 701-293-9000, or 🌐 weather@flagfamily.com or AG@flagfamily.com

Join WDAY Ag Director Bridgette Readel & Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki as they break down Weather and Agriculture topics.

 

The Chamber Link Episode 016: Building the AgTech Workforce

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In this episode we dive deep into the future of the ag tech workforce—a critical topic for the Fargo-Moorhead region and beyond. Tyler connects with experts Chandler Graham (NextGen Ag), Dr. Brooke Thiel (NDSU), and Carmel Miller (NDSU Extension) to unpack the challenges and opportunities shaping agriculture’s next generation. From workforce shortages and rural revitalization to youth career exposure, technology adoption, and the groundbreaking NSF AgTech Engine, the conversation highlights how collaboration, innovation, and education are driving the industry forward.