The Bemidji Buzz Podcast

In this episode of The Bemidji Buzz Podcast, host Brady Laudon sits down with Ethan Rogers to talk about Babe’s Burnout, one of Bemidji’s most anticipated summer traditions.

Ethan shares the history behind the event, how it has grown over the years, and what goes into creating an unforgettable experience for participants and spectators alike. He also discusses what attendees can expect this year, from the impressive lineup of classic cars to the community atmosphere that makes Babe’s Burnout a favorite event each summer.

Whether you’re a longtime car enthusiast or simply looking for a fun way to spend a summer day in Bemidji, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people and passion that keep Babe’s Burnout running year after year.

In this episode of The Bemidji Buzz Podcast, host Brady Laudon sits down with Larissa Donovan to talk about the Bemidji Water Carnival, one of the community’s longest-running summer traditions. From the event’s rich history to the volunteers and community partners who help make it possible each year, Larissa shares what keeps the Water Carnival thriving and why it continues to bring people together generation after generation. She also discusses some of this year’s events, activities, and what visitors can expect during the celebration. Whether you’re a lifelong Bemidji resident, new to the area, or simply looking for a fun way to experience summer in northern Minnesota, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of Bemidji’s most beloved traditions. Tune in to learn more about the Bemidji Water Carnival and the people who help make it a memorable part of summer in Bemidji.

In this episode of The Bemidji Buzz Podcast, host Brady Laudon sits down with Terry Belanger to talk about the Knights of Columbus Walleye Classic, one of Bemidji’s premier fishing tournaments. From the tournament’s beginnings to the community support that keeps it thriving, Terry shares what has made the event a staple on Lake Bemidji for more than 25 years. He also discusses the anglers, volunteers, and local businesses that help make the tournament a success year after year. Whether you’re a tournament angler, a fishing enthusiast, or simply interested in the stories that bring the Bemidji community together, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the area’s most cherished traditions. Tune in to hear the story behind the Knights of Columbus Walleye Classic and its lasting impact on Bemidji.

In this episode of The Bemidji Buzz Podcast, host Brady Laudon sits down with Chirag Patel to talk about the recent renovations and rebrand of City Express by Marriott Bemidji.

From updates to the property to the future of tourism and hospitality in Bemidji, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the community’s evolving lodging destinations.

Tune in to hear the story behind the transformation and what’s ahead for hospitality in Bemidji.

In this episode of The Bemidji Buzz Podcast, host Brady Laudon sits down with Dick Beardsley to talk all things walleye opener in Bemidji. From proven tactics and strategies for catching more walleyes this season to local fishing insight and memorable stories from the water, this episode is packed with valuable tips and plenty of laughs along the way. Whether you’re preparing for opener or simply love northern Minnesota fishing, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

In this episode of The Bemidji Buzz Podcast, host Brady Laudon sits down with Steve Patterson, a local wildlife photographer, to talk about birding, migration season, and the incredible variety of birds passing through northern Minnesota. Steve shares what makes this time of year so special, what species you can expect to see, and why more people in Bemidji are getting into birding. From early morning bird calls to unexpected sightings, this conversation gives you a new perspective on what’s happening all around you this spring. From beginners to experienced outdoorsmen, Steve offers insight into how to get started and where to go to experience the best of Bemidji’s wildlife. If you’re curious about spring in the Northwoods and the wildlife that comes with it, you’ll enjoy this conversation.

In this episode of the Bemidji Buzz Podcast, host Brady Laudon sits down with Dave Wilford, President of the Bemidji Curling Club, to talk about the impact curling has on the Bemidji community. Dave shares how the sport continues to grow in northern Minnesota while bringing people together through competition, connection, and tradition.

From first-time curlers to lifelong players, Dave offers a behind-the-scenes look at why curling keeps people coming back and how it creates a strong sense of community unlike any other sport.

If you’re curious about curling, community, and the unique traditions that make Bemidji special, you’ll enjoy this conversation.

In this episode of the Bemidji Buzz Podcast, host Brady Laudon sits down with Ryan Rude, Executive Director of 218 Sports, to talk about the impact sports have on the Bemidji community. Ryan shares how 218 Sports is helping create opportunities for athletes in northern Minnesota while building confidence, teamwork, and leadership through athletics.

From the growth of organized sports programs to the importance of keeping kids active and involved, Ryan offers a behind-the-scenes look at how sports help bring families and communities together.

If you’re passionate about sports, community, and the future of athletics in northern Minnesota, you’ll enjoy this conversation.

Welcome to Episode 3 of the Bemidji Buzz Podcast hosted by Brady Laudon! In this episode, Brady sits down with Will Pappenfus, a professional fishing guide in Bemidji, Minnesota, to talk all things fishing in the Northwoods. Will shares stories from guiding on Lake Bemidji and the surrounding lakes, tips for catching more walleyes, and what makes the Bemidji area such an incredible fishing destination. If you love fishing, the outdoors, and hearing stories from people who live and work in the Northwoods, this episode is for you. Topics in this episode include: Walleye fishing tips, Life as a Bemidji fishing guide, Favorite local lakes, Memorable fishing stories, Why Bemidji is a world-class fishing destination.

In this episode of The Bemidji Buzz, we sit down with David Hanson-the new owner of the South Shore Hotel on Lake Bemidji, DoubleTree by Hilton, and Green Mill. From his vision for hospitality in the Northwoods to the role tourism plays in our community, David shares his journey into hotel ownership. We also discuss the recent storm that hit Bemidji, the recovery process, and what’s next for these iconic local properties.