Was It Failure… or Preparation?

397 Gophers, One Maintenance Man, and a Whole Lot of Stories

In this episode of Coffee with the Owl, we sit down with Shields Valley’s own maintenance manager, Mitch Marks, a true jack of all trades with stories you won’t believe. From crawling through tunnels under the school to solving decades-old problems, Mitch shares what it actually takes to keep a school running… and it’s a lot more than just “fixing things.” Along the way, we get laughs (including a legendary gopher story), real talk about life, and a powerful look at how hard work, grit, and a few life changes can completely transform your path. This episode is funny, honest, and full of perspective and it also marks the end of an era as we pass the mic to the next generation of Coffee with the Owl. Trust us… you’ll want to hear this one.

Underdogs No More: Inside a State Championship Run

After losing by just 3 points, this team had a choice, run it back or completely reinvent their strategy. In this episode, Shields Valley’s State Champion Marketing Plan Team breaks down the moment everything changed: the risky shift, the pressure at state, and what it actually takes to beat a powerhouse program. From a freshman stepping up, to a team finding its edge, to finally hearing their name called, this is the inside story of a championship run. If you’ve ever come close… this one hits.

Pressure is a Privilege: The Final Chapter of 4 FFA Careers

In this special episode of Coffee with the Owl, we sit down with Shields Valley FFA seniors Rylan, Mylee, Teah, and Hagen as they reflect on their final ride through Great Falls, right where it all began their freshman year. From early struggles and pressure-filled moments to championship performances and career-defining lessons, this episode captures what it truly means to grow through FFA. You’ll hear stories of resilience, missed opportunities that turned into motivation, and the mindset it takes to compete at a high level. From State Star Farmer honors to a Marketing Plan State Championship, each senior shares what made their final convention meaningful and what they’ll carry forward into life beyond the blue jacket. More than anything, this episode is a reminder: the future is in good hands.

No Shortcuts: How Brody Grebe Outworked the Odds

This week on Coffee with the Owl, we sit down with the legendary “Melstone Cowboy” Brody Grebe, a small-town Montana kid who turned grit, discipline, and work ethic into a journey that reached the Division I level, the NFL door, and even Olympic trials. From growing up on a ranch in a town of under 100 people… to navigating prep school on the East Coast… to competing at Montana State and beyond, Brody shares what it really takes to chase big dreams from a small place.

Was It Failure… or Preparation?

What happens when the hardest decision of your career becomes the foundation for your greatest impact? Ambra Tennery opens up about leaving the classroom, building culture, and finding purpose beyond what she originally planned.