Join us on The Big Fat Podcast as we uncover the remarkable journey of David Thatcher, a local hero from Stillwater County, Montana. From his humble beginnings in the rugged landscapes of Montana to becoming a key member of the historic Doolittle Raid during WWII, David's story is one of courage, survival, and a return to a quiet life of service. Discover how this unassuming man played a pivotal role in one of the most audacious missions of the war, and how his legacy continues to inspire. This episode, part of our "They Gazed on the Beartooth" series, is brought to you in collaboration with the Museum of the Beartooths and sponsored by Pinnacle Property of Montana. Like, subscribe, and share to keep history alive!

Thank You To Our Sponsor Pinnacle Property Of Montana

Donna West Owner/Broker

https://www.pinnacleproperty.com

Thank You to Penny Redli, Executive Director - Museum Of The BearTooths

https://www.museumofthebeartooths.com

Also In Studio: Cole Waltner

https://www.youtube.com/@chasingthewildoutdoors

Chapter Timestamps:

[00:00:00] - Introduction: David Thatcher's Life and Legacy

Overview of David's journey from Montana to the Doolittle Raid.

[00:01:00] - Early Life in Stillwater County

Discussion on David's childhood, education, and family connections in Stillwater.

[00:03:00] - Enlisting in the Army Air Corps

Details on how David joined the military and his initial training.

[00:06:00] - The Doolittle Raid: Preparation and Mission

Insights into the secretive training, the USS Hornet, and the mission objectives.

[00:10:00] - The Raid and Its Aftermath

The journey, the bombing, and the crash landing in China; survival stories.

[00:16:00] - Post-Raid Heroics

David's actions post-crash, receiving the Silver Star, and the trek to safety.

[00:23:00] - Life After the Raid

David's continued service during WWII, his return to civilian life, and marriage.

[00:30:00] - Personal Reflections and Artifacts

Personal anecdotes from interviews, and the significance of memorabilia.

[00:38:00] - Legacy and Memorials

How David's story is remembered locally and nationally, including the Thatcher Memorial Highway.

[00:45:00] - David Thatcher's Humility

Reflections on David's character, his modest nature, and contributions to history.

[00:52:00] - The Doolittle Raiders' Reunions

The camaraderie among the Raiders and their annual gatherings.

[00:56:00] - Educational Impact and Community Memory

How David's story educates and inspires, especially in local schools.

[01:02:00] - The Museum Exhibit

Description of the museum's exhibit dedicated to David Thatcher.

[01:08:00] - Conclusion and Acknowledgements

Join us on The Big Fat Podcast as we dive into the sizzling world of Josh Severs, the mastermind behind Hangry Hero. From his journey of transforming a food truck into a community staple to his philosophy on business, family, and success, Josh shares his story of grit, growth, and the power of local entrepreneurship. Discover how he balances the intense demands of running a food business with raising a family, all while keeping the spirit of competition friendly and fun. This episode is a testament to what dedication and a bit of humor can achieve.

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode!

Check out The Hangry Hero right here! https://thehangryhero.square.site/?

You can find Cole here! https://www.youtube.com/@chasingthewildoutdoors

Chapter Timestamps:

[00:00:00] - Introduction to Josh Severs: The Hangry Hero

Meet Josh, the man behind the food truck turning into a local institution.

[00:10:00] - The Evolution of Hangry Hero

Insights into moving from a mobile food truck to a fixed location and the impact on business.

[00:20:00] - Life Behind the Grill: Family, Business, and Breakfast Burritos

Josh discusses the challenges and rewards of working with family and the early mornings of the food industry.

[00:35:00] - Entrepreneurial Spirit and Community Impact

Discussing how entrepreneurship shapes community and personal life, including overcoming obstacles.

[00:50:00] - The Competitive Edge: Food Trucks and Friendships

Exploring the dynamics of competition versus collaboration in the food truck scene.

[01:00:00] - Online Ordering and Customer Engagement

How technology has changed the game for Hangry Hero, focusing on customer experience.

[01:15:00] - Looking Ahead: Plans and Dreams for Hangry Hero

Future visions for the business and Josh's philosophy on continuous improvement.

[01:30:00] - The Heart of the Hangry Hero

Josh's take on what it means to serve the community with love and a hint of humor.

[01:45:00] - Entrepreneurship and Life Lessons

Reflections on daily resolutions, the importance of a supportive community, and the mindset of success.

[01:55:00] - Conclusion: Celebrating Local Success

Wrapping up with thanks to Josh, a call to support local businesses, and a reminder to check out Hangry Hero's offerings.

Join 'The Big Fat Podcast' and our “They Gazed On The Beartooths Series” (TGOTB) #3 as we uncover the stories of some of the architects who built the community at the 2nd Crow Agency. Discover how individuals like William Norton, J.I. Allen, and William White were not just names but the very foundation of this historical site. We'll share insights into their roles, their interactions with the Crow Nation, and how they left a lasting mark on Montana's history. Like, comment your favorite story, and subscribe for more community history!

Penny Redli

Executive Director - Museum Of The Beartooths

https://www.museumofthebeartooths.com/

Donna West

Owner/Broker - Pinnacle Property Of Montana

https://www.PinnacleProperty.com

00:00 Introduction to the Untamed Lands of Montana

00:33 Welcome to the Big Fat Podcast

01:09 The Mystery of Colonel Norton

02:31 William Norton's Early Life and Journey

03:08 Photographs and Figures of the Crow Agency

18:24 Colonel Allen's Legacy and Adventures

33:14 The Exploding Cannon Incident

36:01 The Search for the Missing Cannon

52:38 Exploring Hoppe’s Place and the Old Cabin

53:25 Historical Names and Subdivisions

57:37 Horace Countryman and His Legacy

58:49 The Confusing Family Tree of Horace Countryman

01:01:25 Founding of Columbus and Its Early Days

01:08:04 William White: A Pioneer’s Story

01:12:33 Julia White: A Remarkable Woman

01:22:24 The Legacy of Early Settlers

01:26:27 Town Names and Their Origins

01:33:15 Museum Hours and Closing Remarks

In this episode of The Big Fat Podcast, joined by guests Penny Redli and Donna West, we delve into the intriguing and often overlooked history of the Crow Agency. From school tours to fascinating artifact discoveries and archaeological digs, learn about the critical role the Crow Agency played in the region's history. We explore key figures, historical incidents, and cultural transitions of the Crow people. Sponsored by Pinnacle Property of Montana and in collaboration with the Museum of the Beartooths, this 2nd episode in our ‘They Gazed On The Beartooths’ series, is a captivating exploration of the past right underneath our feet.

Penny Redli

Executive Director - Museum Of The Beartooths

https://www.museumofthebeartooths.com/

Donna West

Owner/Broker - Pinnacle Property Of Montana

https://www.PinnacleProperty.com

00:00 Introduction to the Big Fat Podcast

00:54 Exploring Crow Agency's Educational Impact

03:15 Artifacts and Archaeological Discoveries

07:33 Corruption and Controversies at Crow Agency

20:27 Chief Plenty Coup and Cultural Transitions

29:25 Historical Figures and Burial Practices

40:14 Preserving Crow Agency's Legacy

50:22 Historical Preservation and Subdivision Challenges

52:39 The New Book on Crow Agency

53:46 Artifacts and Photographs from Crow Agency

56:36 The Only Existing Journal and Agency Records

57:48 The Untold Story of Crow Agency

01:00:09 Adobe Structures and Nomadic Influences

01:01:50 Fort Parker and Historical Markers

01:04:52 Mining Disputes and Nye City

01:16:16 Archaeological Discoveries and Trash Analysis

01:28:55 Crow Tribes Influence in Stillwater County

01:30:28 Modernizing Historical Tours

01:35:18 Conclusion and Acknowledgements

Keith O'Neil: history teacher at Park City High School, shares his journey and passion for teaching history, recounting his inspirations, college experiences, and the interesting move back to teaching after years in sales. We explore a treasure trove of historical topics, from the American Civil War and the Bozeman Trail to fascinating local Montana history. Dive deep into riveting tales about Fort Smith, the Custer Battlefield, Chinese immigrant Lee Lute, and other colorful characters from the Wild West era. Don't miss out on this history-packed episode filled with stories, personal anecdotes, and the enduring quest for historical truth!

Connect with Cole Waltner at @ChasingTheWildOutdoors

00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Keith O'Neil

01:19 Keith's Journey to Becoming a History Teacher

01:59 The Importance of Engaging History Lessons

05:24 Returning to College Later in Life

06:44 Balancing Career and Passion

11:48 The Value of Life Experience in Teaching

17:41 Returning to Hometown and Family

23:02 Exploring Local History and Personal Interests

41:10 Discussing Custer and Crazy Horse

42:18 Elizabeth Custer's Campaign

44:11 Black Elk's Story

46:44 Battlefield Visits and Reenactments

49:32 Engaging Students in History

54:32 Field Trips and Historical Sites

01:12:28 Montana History and Notable Figures

01:21:07 Personal History and Fort Benton

01:23:38 Exploring Forts and Historical Sites

01:26:39 Metal Detecting at Fort Smith

01:39:23 Crow Agency and Local Legends

01:49:08 Bill Hamilton's Epic Life

01:54:32 Colonel Allen's Legacy

01:55:29 The Mysterious Cannon Explosion

01:57:32 Historical Figures of Columbus

01:58:20 Introducing Lee Lute

01:59:23 Lee Lute's Adventures and Research

02:00:14 The Fascinating Story of Lee Lute

02:03:36 Colonel Norton and the Civil War

02:11:21 The Tong Wars and Lee Lute's Fate

02:24:38 Artifacts and Historical Discoveries

02:26:09 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

Explore the rich history of Stillwater County through the lens of Jim Annin’s monumental work, 'They Gazed On The Beartooths'. Join us in our first episode where we dive deep into Annin's contributions to local history, the creation of the Museum of the Beartooths, and the incredible stories captured in his three-volume set. Discover how a man born in 1890 continues to influence our understanding of Montana's past, and learn about his intriguing personal anecdotes, historical documentation, and much more. Our guest, Penny Redli Executive Director of the Museum Of The Beartooths, provides expert insights and anecdotes, shedding light on the significance of Annin's research and lasting influence. This episode is brought to you in collaboration with the Museum of the Beartooths and sponsored by Pinnacle Property of Montana. Penny Redli Executive Director - Museum Of The Beartooths https://www.museumofthebeartooths.com/ Donna WestOwner/Broker - Pinnacle Property Of Montana https://www.PinnacleProperty.com 00:00 Introduction to Jim Annin’s Legacy 00:51 The Importance of Jim Annin’s Contributions 01:54 The Origins of the Museum of the Beartooths 02:59 Jim Annin’s Early Life and Family 04:13 The Creation of 'They Gazed on the Beartooths' 05:30 Jim Annin’s Personal Anecdotes and Legacy 09:42 Jim Annin’s Community Involvement 13:50 Jim Annin’s Family and Personal Life 19:44 The Impact of Jim Annin’s Work on Local History 30:52 The Importance of Preserving Local History 40:46 The Historical Significance of the Columbus Depot 43:58 Historical Meeting and Custer's Expedition 44:37 Railroad and Treaty Clauses 46:39 Jim Annin’s Influence and Contributions 48:43 Colonel Allen and Native American Artifacts 53:08 Photographic Documentation and Historical Events 01:05:16 Community Involvement and Educational Initiatives 01:10:39 Preserving History and Future Projects 01:27:20 Conclusion and Acknowledgements

Ron Hayes shares his unique journey from law enforcement and his love of breakdancing to becoming a renowned wildlife photographer. In this episode, Ron discusses his early life, diverse musical tastes, and childhood adventures in Wyoming. Delve into his transition from law enforcement to photography, his approach to capturing stunning wildlife images, and the importance of experiences over social media fame. Listen in as Ron and Cole recount their adventures in Churchill with polar Bears, and beyond!

Connect with Ron Hayes

https://www.westernwildlifeimages.com

Connect with Cole Waltner @ChasingTheWildOutdoors

00:00 Introduction and Musical Tastes

00:55 Breakdancing Champion of the 80s

06:11 Life on the Ranch and Early Influences

08:56 Family History and Heritage

20:59 Transition to Law Enforcement

23:14 Photography as a Passion and Career

47:26 Challenges and Rewards of Wildlife Photography

51:49 Frustrations and Rewards in Wildlife Photography

52:15 Memorable Moments with Beluga Whales

54:23 Polar Bear Adventures and Future Plans

59:53 The Importance of Simplifying Gear

01:08:39 The Impact of Social Media on Photography

01:18:49 The Challenges of Wildlife Photography

01:19:07 Upcoming Wildlife Expeditions

01:22:54 The Unique Appeal of the Coast Guard

01:34:33 Influences and Inspirations in Photography

01:45:43 Returning from Break: Camera Trapping Insights

01:47:10 Mastering Light in Wildlife Photography

01:49:54 Ethics and Controversies in Wildlife Photography

01:52:17 The Hypocrisy of Baiting in Wildlife Photography

01:56:55 Challenges and Joys of Wildlife Photography

01:59:56 The Importance of Capturing Moments

02:19:15 Beyond the Wild Podcast: A New Beginning

02:23:16 Cherishing Experiences and Relationships

Wow, we jumped all over the place in this one but it was fun!! Cody Schlehuber of SensoryPhotography.com catches us up on his recent trip to the Carolinas and discusses the development of his new photography studio located in a historic building in Columbus, Montana. Joined by Cole Waltner from @ChasingTheWildOutdoors and Shelby Burrows of BadCanyonFence.com the conversation spans Hurricane Helene, to psychological effects on wartime drone pilots, and some interesting local history as well!

00:00 Introduction: What Would You Do Different?

00:14 Hurricane Experience in South Carolina

00:42 Military Life and Training Stories

01:52 Graduation Day Challenges

03:22 Post-Graduation Reflections

07:00 Pride and Accomplishments

29:58 Capturing Wildlife on Film

31:02 Proud Parents and Career Beginnings

31:51 Local Legends and Stories

32:39 The Art of Traditional Hunting

35:31 Six Degrees of Separation

54:45 Mining and Military Stories

01:03:25 Drone Warfare: The New Face of Combat

01:03:37 Psychological Toll on Drone Pilots

01:04:28 Disturbing Drone Footage on Social Media

01:06:04 Advancements in Military Technology

01:07:09 AI in Warfare: Ethical Concerns

01:09:32 Thermal and Infrared Technology

01:12:54 Civilian Use of Drones

01:22:43 Generational Perspectives on War

01:30:17 Conspiracy Theories and Societal Distrust

01:43:33 The Importance of Knowledge Transfer

01:44:04 Community and Survival

01:44:18 The Temptation of Hoarding Resources

01:44:31 The Value of Knowledge in Crisis

01:45:14 Archiving Information for Future Use

01:45:46 The Reality of Losing Skills

01:50:05 The Mental Strain of Survival

01:52:35 Human Nature in Desperation

01:54:00 Innovative Survival Techniques

01:56:47 The Chaos of Modern Society

01:59:21 The Importance of Community Planning

02:06:24 Conspiracy Theories and Societal Collapse

02:21:23 The Nature of Wealth Distribution

02:22:41 Lottery Winners and Financial Mismanagement

02:23:05 Montana Millionaire Lottery

02:27:15 The Journey to Owning a Photography Studio

02:33:03 Renovating a Historic Building

02:36:10 Preserving Local History

02:52:14 Transforming a Bathroom into a Changing Area

02:52:37 Pumpkin Head Photo Shoot Plans

02:52:55 Reconnecting with Dallas and Special K

02:55:19 Memories of Alex and Photography Ideas

03:00:22 Community Projects and Revitalization

03:03:21 Nostalgia and Local History

03:09:46 Boy Scouts, Skills, and Community Changes

03:17:05 Challenges and Future of the Community

03:19:34 Preserving History and Final Thoughts