 Minnesota Public Radio traveled up north to Bemidji to learn the secret behind some of their most successful local businesses. Lakeland news reporter Sherell Moore tells us why the community was chosen for the conversation. It was a packed house at the Hampton Inn tonight as community members came out to join Minnesota Public Radio and learning the secret behind a few of Bemidji's successful businesses. Bemidji over the years has become a hotbed of starting companies and expanding companies and I became really interested in what's happening here. Bemidji Brewing, Air Corps Aviation and Stish Wars meets all took part at the conversation sharing stories of humble beginnings. People are excited to work in our industry it's pretty popular right now and it's getting a lot of you know coverage especially in the Twin Cities and people are becoming more aware of craft beer and all different flavors and so they're excited to to work for us and learn even more. To tricks and secrets of their trades from hiring the right staff, finding the ideal location and taking advantage of social media. I had a problem with advertising and not knowing how well it worked so when I got into social media and doing things like that I could see direct results on how well different things worked. One of the things that we learned when we were exploring where to go is how much entrepreneurship is happening in greater Minnesota. There's a lot going on. There are stories to be told. There are businesses that are being started. When asked why NPR chose Bemidji for the discussion, host Chris Barrell says just something about the community that makes the town unique. It seems to be one of those places that's trying to encourage people to start their own business, share information, nurture new businesses, encourage entrepreneurs and that's the kind of environment that we like exploring and understanding. And for anyone hoping to start their own business one day, our panel offered some key advice. Just kind of always say yes, don't take no for an answer and just stay focused and things you know don't give up I guess. Reporting in Bemidji, Shawmore, Lakeland News. Tonight's discussion aired live on NPR and you can listen to that entire conversation on their website. If you enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland PBS.