The IWD406’s Podcast

Episode 63 | Building Legacy in Montana: Aubrie Lorona of Swan Mountain Outfitters | Courage, Calling, and Continuing the Vision

Episode 63 | Building Legacy in Montana: Aubrie Lorona of Swan Mountain Outfitters | Courage, Calling, and Continuing the Vision The IWD406 Podcast, Montana’s trusted platform amplifying leadership, storytelling, and community impact, proudly presents Episode 63 featuring Aubrie Lorona, Co-Owner of Swan Mountain Outfitters in West Glacier, Montana. In this episode of the IWD406 Podcast, we sit down with Aubrie Lorona, Co-Owner of Swan Mountain Outfitters, to explore the legacy behind one of Montana’s premier outfitting businesses. Located in West Glacier, Swan Mountain Outfitters offers guided horseback riding experiences in Glacier National Park and llama trekking adventures throughout Montana’s backcountry. Aubrie shares the story of her father’s vision for the business, what it was like growing up within that environment, and how she has stepped into a leadership role while navigating her own path. This episode explores: * Legacy business in Montana * Horseback riding in Glacier National Park * Llama trekking and backcountry experiences * Leadership and team development * Family business dynamics * Courage to pivot and follow your calling * Montana outfitting culture and tourism If you are interested in entrepreneurship, legacy businesses, outdoor recreation, or leadership in Montana, this episode offers valuable insight and perspective. SPONSOR | OUTSIDE METRO This episode is proudly sponsored by Outside Metro — the premier lodging experience in the Whitefish area. With over 500 five-star reviews, Outside Metro offers thoughtfully designed stays that blend comfort, style, and true Montana hospitality. Whether you are visiting for Glacier National Park, outdoor adventure, or simply to reconnect, Outside Metro provides a place to stay where the locals play. Experience Whitefish the way it was meant to be enjoyed. Bonus: No booking fees when you book direct Visit: www.outsidemetro.com [http://www.outsidemetro.com] LISTEN + CONNECT Listen to the full episode: www.iwd406.com/podcast [http://www.iwd406.com/podcast] Watch on YouTube: @IWD406MontanaWomen Follow the Podcast: @theiwd406podcast ABOUT IWD406 IWD406 is a Montana-based storytelling and media platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of women shaping business, culture, community, and leadership across the state through podcasts, editorial features, and digital publication.

Episode 62 | Bringing Songwriters to Montana: Jo Smith of Big Sky Troubadours | The Power of Storytelling Through Music and Community

Episode 62 | Bringing Songwriters to Montana: Jo Smith of Big Sky Troubadours | The Power of Storytelling Through Music and Community The IWD406 Podcast, Montana’s trusted platform amplifying leadership, creativity, and community impact, proudly presents Episode 62 featuring Jo Smith, founder of Big Sky Troubadours. In this authentic and story-driven conversation, Jo shares what it means to build a life rooted in music, storytelling, and connection—bringing her journey from national stages to intimate Montana gatherings. As a nationally recognized singer-songwriter who has performed at the Grand Ole Opry and toured with major country artists, Jo has taken her experience and created something uniquely her own through Big Sky Troubadours—an experience designed to bring songwriters and audiences together in a more personal, meaningful way. Her work is centered on connection. Connection between artist and audience. Connection through shared stories. And connection through music that reflects real life experiences. Through Big Sky Troubadours, Jo is building more than events. She is building a platform for storytelling. One where songs are not just performed, but understood. Where artists are not just seen, but experienced. And where audiences become part of something deeper than entertainment—it becomes a shared moment. At IWD406, we believe in amplifying women who are creating culture through their work—women who are building platforms that bring people together in meaningful ways. Jo is doing exactly that. This conversation explores the idea that music is not just something we listen to—it’s something we feel, carry, and connect through. In this episode, Jo shares: • Her journey from Nashville to Montana • Performing at the Grand Ole Opry and touring nationally • The inspiration behind Big Sky Troubadours • Creating intimate, story-driven music experiences • The power of songwriting as storytelling • Building community through music and shared experience • What it means to create connection in today’s world Big Sky Troubadours continues to represent a new way of experiencing music—one that is rooted in storytelling, authenticity, and connection across Montana and beyond. To learn more about Jo Smith and Big Sky Troubadours, visit: https://www.bigskytroubadours.com/ [https://www.bigskytroubadours.com/] Montana thrives when artists create, share their stories, and bring people together through meaningful experiences. PODBEAN + LISTEN LINKS Listen to the full episode: www.iwd406.com/podcast [http://www.iwd406.com/podcast] Watch on YouTube: @IWD406MontanaWomen Follow the Podcast: @theiwd406podcast Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsor This episode is proudly sponsored by Outside Metro — the premier lodging experience in the Whitefish area. With over 500 five-star reviews, they offer exceptional stays that blend comfort, style, and true Montana hospitality. Whether you're here for music, connection, or to experience Montana, come stay where the locals play and experience Whitefish the way it was meant to be enjoyed. Bonus: No booking fees. Go to www.outsidemetro.com [https://www.outsidemetro.com/] Curious About Sponsorship? Partner with IWD406 to have your business featured across our growing podcast, social media, and video platforms. We offer 12-episode advertising packages designed to elevate your brand while supporting stories that inspire, educate, and strengthen communities across Montana. Now booking Pass the Mic Sponsors for the IWD406 Podcast Contact us at www.iwd406.com [http://www.iwd406.com] About IWD406 IWD406 is a Montana-based storytelling and media platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of women shaping business, culture, community, and leadership across the state through podcasts, editorial features, and digital publication.

Episode 61 | Building Community That Moves Women Forward: Amanda Diehl of Sky Oro | Redefining Connection and Growth in Montana

Episode 61 | Building Community That Moves Women Forward: Amanda Diehl of Sky Oro | Redefining Connection and Growth in Montana The IWD406 Podcast, Montana’s trusted platform amplifying leadership, creativity, and community impact, proudly presents Episode 61 featuring Amanda Diehl, founder of Sky Oro. In this dynamic and forward-thinking conversation, Amanda shares what it means to build more than a business—she is building a movement centered on connection, collaboration, and shared growth. As the founder of Sky Oro, a Montana-based coworking and community space, Amanda has created an environment where ambitious women come together in person to build their businesses, navigate life transitions, and grow alongside one another. After raising over $250,000 from founding members to launch Sky Oro, Amanda has spent the past seven years cultivating a model rooted in relationships—where connection fuels courage, accountability, and real momentum. Her work challenges the traditional path of entrepreneurship, one that often requires women to build alone. Instead, she is redefining what success looks like—proving that proximity, community, and aligned environments are essential to sustainable growth. Through Sky Oro, Amanda is building more than a space. She is building access. Access to community. Access to opportunity. And access to a new way of rising—together. At IWD406, we believe in amplifying women who are creating impact through connection and leadership—women who are shifting culture and building spaces where others can thrive. Amanda is doing exactly that. This conversation explores the idea that success is not built in isolation—it is built in environments that challenge, support, and elevate you. In this episode, Amanda shares: • The vision behind Sky Oro and its community-driven model • Raising over $250,000 through founding member support • Why women are not meant to build alone • The role of environment in business growth and confidence • Navigating motherhood while leading as a CEO • The power of in-person connection in a digital world • How Montana is shaping a new era of women-led collaboration Sky Oro continues to represent a new standard for connection, leadership, and community-building—rooted in Montana values with a forward-thinking approach to how women live and work today. To learn more about Amanda Diehl and Sky Oro, visit: https://www.skyoro.com/ Montana thrives when women come together, build with intention, and create spaces where others can rise alongside them. Listen to the full episode: www.iwd406.com/podcast [http://www.iwd406.com/podcast] Watch on YouTube: @IWD406MontanaWomen Follow the Podcast: @theiwd406podcast Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsor This episode is proudly sponsored by Outside Metro — the premier lodging experience in the Whitefish area. With over 500 five-star reviews, they offer exceptional stays that blend comfort, style, and true Montana hospitality. Whether you're here to ski, hike, or simply unwind, come stay where the locals play and experience Whitefish the way it was meant to be enjoyed. Bonus: No booking fees Curious About Sponsorship? Partner with IWD406 to have your business featured across our growing podcast, social media, and video platforms. We offer 12-episode advertising packages designed to elevate your brand while supporting stories that inspire, educate, and strengthen communities across Montana. Now booking Pass the Mic Sponsors for the IWD406 Podcast Contact us at iwd406@gmail.com Visit www.iwd406.com [http://www.iwd406.com/] About IWD406 IWD406 is a Montana-based storytelling and media platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of women shaping business, culture, community, and leadership across the state through podcasts, editorial features, and digital publication.

Episode 60 | She Lives Her Purpose: Cress Whitman of Horsemanship with Integrity | Bridging the Connection Between Horse and Human

Episode 60 | She Lives Her Purpose: Cress Whitman of Horsemanship with Integrity | Bridging the Connection Between Horse and Human The IWD406 Podcast, Montana’s trusted platform amplifying leadership, creativity, and community impact, proudly presents Episode 60 featuring Cress Whitman, founder of Horsemanship with Integrity. In this grounded and powerful conversation, Cress shares what it means to build a life rooted in purpose—not something she found, but something she has always lived. As a Montana horsewoman, buyer, broker, and producer of Draft X horses, Cress has created a life centered around the connection between horse and human—one built on trust, discipline, respect, and a deep understanding of the spirit within both. Her journey is not defined by a single moment, but by a way of living—one that reflects patience, consistency, and a commitment to doing things with integrity. Through Horsemanship with Integrity, Cress is building more than a business. She is preserving a way of life. One where horses are not just trained, but understood. Where connection is earned, not forced. And where the work reflects something deeper than outcome—it reflects identity. At IWD406, we believe in amplifying women who are living in alignment with who they are—women who are not chasing purpose, but embodying it. Cress is exactly that. This conversation explores the idea that horsemanship is not just about skill—it is about presence, awareness, and the relationship between human and animal. It is about understanding energy, building trust, and respecting the process. In this episode, Cress shares: • What it means to live your purpose, not search for it • The foundation of trust between horse and human • Her work as a buyer, broker, and Draft X horse producer • The discipline and patience required in horsemanship • How integrity shapes every aspect of her work • The connection between identity and lifestyle in Montana • Why the process matters just as much as the outcome Horsemanship with Integrity continues to represent a standard of respect, connection, and purpose-driven work rooted deeply in Montana land, lifestyle, and values. To learn more about Cress Whitman and Horsemanship with Integrity, visit: https://www.horsemanshipwithintegrity.com/ [https://www.horsemanshipwithintegrity.com/] Montana thrives when women live in alignment, honor their craft, and build lives that reflect who they truly are. Listen to the full episode: www.iwd406.com/podcast Watch on YouTube: @IWD406MontanaWomen Follow the Podcast: @theiwd406podcast Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsor This episode is proudly sponsored by Outside Metro — the premier lodging experience in the Whitefish area. With over 500 five-star reviews, they offer exceptional stays that blend comfort, style, and true Montana hospitality. Whether you're here to ski, hike, or simply unwind, come stay where the locals play and experience Whitefish the way it was meant to be enjoyed. Bonus: No booking fees Curious About Sponsorship? Partner with IWD406 to have your business featured across our growing podcast, social media, and video platforms. We offer 12-episode advertising packages designed to elevate your brand while supporting stories that inspire, educate, and strengthen communities across Montana. Now booking Pass the Mic Sponsors for the IWD406 Podcast Contact us at iwd406@gmail.com Visit www.iwd406.com [http://www.iwd406.com/] About IWD406 IWD406 is a Montana-based storytelling and media platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of women shaping business, culture, community, and leadership across the state through podcasts, editorial features, and digital publication.

EPS 59 | Learning to Hunt with Confidence: Alex Stokman of Venery | Building Skill, Story, and Stewardship

Episode #59 | Learning to Hunt with Confidence: Alex Stokman of Venery | Building Skill, Story, and Stewardship The IWD406 Podcast, Montana’s trusted platform amplifying leadership, creativity, and community impact, proudly presents Episode 59 featuring Alex Stokman, founder of Venery. In this powerful and grounded conversation, Alex shares her journey from growing up in Ohio and Florida, to studying biology/environmental science, to eventually finding her way into the world of hunting—not through tradition, but through curiosity, education, and a defining moment that sparked her confidence to begin. That moment didn’t just change her path—it led to the creation of Venery, a Montana-based organization dedicated to helping women learn to hunt through education, ethical practices, and shared experience. Through Venery, Alex is building something deeply intentional: a space where women can develop skills, gain knowledge, and step into hunting with confidence—without intimidation, and without needing to wait for permission. At IWD406, we believe in creating space for women to step into new experiences, build confidence, and connect through shared learning. Alex is doing exactly that. This conversation explores the idea that hunting is not just about the outcome, but about the process—the learning, the storytelling, the connection to land, and the respect for wildlife that comes with it. Venery emphasizes ethical hunting practices, land and animal stewardship, and a deeper appreciation for the responsibility that comes with participating in the outdoors. In this episode, Alex shares: • Her journey from marine biology to hunting • The moment that gave her the confidence to begin • Why women don’t need permission to learn new skills • How Venery is building a women’s hunting community • The role of education in developing confidence in the outdoors • Ethical hunting practices and land stewardship • Why the process, storytelling, and experience matter as much as the outcome Venery continues to create opportunities for women across Montana and beyond to learn, grow, and build confidence in the outdoors through education and community. To learn more about Alex Stokman and Venery, visit: 🌐 https://www.venerymt.com/ [https://www.venerymt.com/] Montana thrives when women step into new spaces, support one another, and build meaningful experiences rooted in skill, respect, and connection to the land. 🎧 Listen to the full episode: 🌐 www.iwd406.com/podcast [http://www.iwd406.com/podcast] 📺 Watch on YouTube: @IWD406MontanaWomen 📲 Follow the Podcast: @theiwd406podcast Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsor This episode is proudly sponsored by Outside Metro — the premier lodging experience in the Whitefish area. With over 500 five-star reviews, they offer exceptional stays that blend comfort, style, and true Montana hospitality. Whether you're here to ski, hike, or simply unwind, come stay where the locals play and experience Whitefish the way it was meant to be enjoyed. ✨ Bonus: No booking fees Curious About Sponsorship? Partner with IWD406 to have your business featured across our growing podcast, social media, and video platforms. We offer 12-episode advertising packages designed to elevate your brand while supporting stories that inspire, educate, and strengthen communities across Montana. 🎙️ Now booking Pass the Mic Sponsors for the IWD406 Podcast 📩 Contact us at www.iwd406.com [http://www.iwd406.com] to learn more About IWD406 IWD406 is a Montana-based storytelling and media platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of women shaping business, culture, community, and leadership across the state through podcasts, editorial features, and digital publication.