Missoula Valley, MT June 2024

Gentlemen of Missoula

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Special Thanks to City Lifestyle magazines, FUEL, Angel Flight West, PEAK ATP and MyHMB Supplements & to The LifeGuard Group for Sponsoring our 2023 Climbing Adventures

WARM UP CLIMB

Man, oh man.

During my interview with public speaker, author, and Missoula Podcast's own Brandon Smith, we delved into the expectations of men in today's world and how those pressures can often snuff out vulnerability, namely the expression of it. As a mother of boys, I want my sons to grow up in a community where it's ok to say that too much is being asked of them. I want them to know that they can ask for help, and get it without shame or judgment.

We all know the dad jokes—the ones where the dad doesn't know how to plan or organize, how to find something in the kitchen cabinet even though it's right there, or that they, in general, could not do the work of a mother. And as someone who has a husband who does in fact fall victim to many of these generalizations, I can also say that I would not be the mother or individual that I am today without him and his support.

It's a tall order, loving me. I was raised by a single dad who spoiled me but also flooded me with the right type of richness—to know and recognize the right kind of love.

I found my counterpart at a sweet sixteen party, both of us were high schoolers. Our journey in love is a sweet one, but it has known deep sorrow, deep fear, and deeper understanding and learning. When we love each other the right way, we feel as though we can do anything. Conquer anything, fear nothing. And the moment that we feel like the floor has faltered, we know it's time to check in—to say we need the other to rise up and meet us at our weakness. I admire all husbands and fathers that can do this, and who ask the same of their wives and mothers of their children. Like Brandon says, we need each other.

With this issue, I hope you're reminded of any man in your life who brings joy to himself and others. When we are passionate about our hobbies or careers or families, we inspire others. This month I'm reminded of my dear friend Michael—a true gentleman and someone who inspires me professionally and personally. He adores my growing family and he shows up for us over and over again. I'm so thankful for your continued support, advice, and friendship.

CHELSEA LYN AGRO, EDITOR @MVLMAGAZINE

June

PUBLISHER

Mike Tucker | MTucker@CityLifestyle.com

EDITOR

Chelsea Lyn Agro | Chelsea.Agro@CityLifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Marla Huggins | Marla.Huggins@CityLifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Erika Spaulding | InspiredByMontana@Gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Chelsea Lyn Agro, Shelby Humphreys, Betty V Vintage

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain Learn

inside the issue

JUNE 2024 | GENTLEMEN’S

Departments

Casual to Classy

Living With Intention

An interview with upcoming TedxBillings Speaker Brandon Smith.

Meet Jim Todd

The grandfather of Missoula's artistic community.

Curated specialty whiskey tastings led by Rhino owner Kevin Head.

Brandon Smith poses in his hometown, coincidentally coined the "Garden City," where lots of men like Brandon have bloomed into leaders within our community. Read about what he's been up to on page 26.

Erika Spaulding

Missoula

business monthly

Smartphone Photographer

On Saturday, June 1 at 8:30 a.m., take advantage of upping your photo-taking skills at the Lifelong Learning Center. This class will show you how to utilize your smartphone's full camera potential. By leveraging all the features of your phone camera, you'll be able to create impactful pictures and capture family memories! Class fee is $65. Visit MissoulaClasses.com for more information.

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Fried Chicken & Whiskey Thursdays!

Every Thursday at 4 p.m. at Stave & Hoop Speakeasy, enjoy a scrumptious meal for a heck of a deal. Get three pieces of house-brined and hand battered honey butter fried chicken, served with a side of whipped honey butter and sweet spicy guajillo sauce for $8.

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Family Skate

Calling all families to Glacier Ice Rink on Thursday, June 13 at 10 a.m.! Families with young children or beginner skaters can enjoy ice skating in a less-crowded environment during Glacier Ice Rink's Family Skate sessions. These are 75-minutes long and skate aids are allowed. Admission is $10 and skate rentals are $3. Advanced online reservations are strongly encouraged.

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Fix-It Clinic

On Wednesday, June 19 bring your worn, broken, or malfunctioning items for help learning to repair them at 5 p.m. at the Home ReSource Community Room. Skilled volunteers help repair those items by sharing their knowledge and skills.

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Baseline Concussion Testing

The Dylan Steigers Concussion Project is running their annual summer sale for baseline concussion tests for a discounted price of $50. The CDC recommends having your athlete tested annually. This information is highly beneficial in the detection and treatment of a concussion, should your athlete experience one. Testing is completed by Peak Performance Physical Therapy concussion specialists, and includes assessment of the vestibular and oculomotor systems, computerized eye tracking, balance, and a cognitive screen. Call today to schedule your athlete, 406.42.808.

Providing exceptional medical care through highly personalized experience to individuals and families

Core to Petersen Concierge Medical is the personal relationship with your physician, allowing for a deeper exploration of your health We focus on you individually and provide crafted care based on cutting-edge diagnostics and therapeutics specifically tailored to your goals and needs Next to health, time is your greatest asset With direct access to your physician you will receive convenient, discreet, and timely attention

Above all, we seek to provide our members with the best possible healthcare.

Mother Nature & Man

PETERSEN CONCIERGE MEDICAL BELIEVES IN THE HEALING POWER OF THE HUNT

ARTICLE BY CAMILLA PETERSEN, ND MD FAAFP

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIKA SPAULDING

As a hunter settles into a place to glass, he listens and feels. It may take 15 minutes or 30 but ultimately, the world will be smaller, less connected, and more alive. There can be no other worries or stressors. The work has to wait, the argument with the in-laws fades into the background. The bird song intensifies, the sense of smell becomes acute and every sound comes alive. The awareness grows, man becomes part of the woods and the woods become part of him. He returns to the day of yore, to purpose and being. Man becomes a predator among other predators, the hunter.

There is something primal to being in the woods for a hunt. It is a return to the ancient call of man, a place of quiet and purpose, and a way to connect to the deeper part of ourselves that we put aside in a busy world of today. It answers an ancient call home. Regular interludes in the woods bring comfort and ability to be quiet and still, bring patience, situation awareness, and acute sense of being that can easily translate to everyday life. Hunting is fitness, it is improvement in the senses, it is awareness and stability.

While this is invaluable to adults, it is even more so to young kids who grow up in this way of life. A young boy who hunts sees the majesty of an elk, the strength of the moose, the power of the bear, and the beauty of the land. He understands on a deep level that a powerful animal that is hunted deserves respect and gratitude. When that animal falls, there is a value to the

meat eaten, the cycle of life and death and the understanding of the brutality of nature. A hunt is not simply a physical exertion for the body or a way to get into the woods, it is a connection to manhood and regular honing of the senses that breeds strength, fortitude, patience, awareness, and solidity.

Similar to the woods, there is a connection that happens when we go to the river with a goal and a purpose. While floating down the river is an enjoyable activity, floating or wading down the river with the fly rod is completely different. Just like being quiet in the woods, going to the river to fish places one in need of learning and functioning with the blessing of nature. The senses grow taut, the sun is brighter, the river is more steadfast and reading water becomes paramount. It is that ancient call that disconnects us from the worries of the day and focuses our minds. Both young and old grow strong on the river in body and in mind and to borrow few words from Normal Maclean: “Eventually, all things merge into one, and a river runs through it.”

Camilla Petersen is the owner of Petersen Concierge Medical, a curated bespoke private medical practice, providing wraparound personalized medical care for its clients.

Petersen Concierge Medical  2315 McDonald Avenue, Suite 110 406.541.7040

PetersenConciergeMedical.com

"Hunting is fitness, it is improvement in the senses, it is awareness and stability."

Timothy & Elizabeth Hines and Family

CA S U AL TO CLASSY

MISSOULA MEN ARE DRESSED FOR EVERY OCCASION, STYLED BY BETTY V VINTAGE

ARTICLE BY BETTY V VINTAGE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIKA SPAULDING

Opposite:

1 Kevin sporting a 1960s Circle S 2 piece arrow welt western suit, 1970s black, brown, and orange crackle polyester pearl snap shirt and a handmade bolo made of lacquered wood and illustrated grizzly bear.

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2 Jordan showing off a 1990s Logger’s Stew T-shirt, 1930s/40s thrashed black and red buffalo plaid wool chore coat, and a 1950s wool M hat.

3 Quincy wearing a 1960s High Gear brown wool knit and suede button up grandpa sweater, a 1992 Pearl Jam Music For Rhinos tour T-shirt, and 1990s distressed Levi’s jeans.

4 Kevin dressing in a 1990s Ren and Stimpy T-shirt, a 1980s East German Raindrop camo military uniform shirt, vintage Levi’s, and a 1980s CIND-R-LITE trucker hat.

CONTINUED >

5 Kai confidently poses in a 1990s Wrangler pink colorful stripe brushpopper and Wrangler jeans.

6 Kai wears a 1970s H Bar C black western sharkskin suit and a black 1970s polka dot silk tie. Kevin is in a 1960s Circle S 2 piece arrow welt western suit, with the 1970s black, brown, and orange crackle polyester pearl snap shirt and the handmade bolo made of lacquered wood and illustrated grizzly bear. Jordan sports a 1970s Sentry Clothes rust orange micro suede blazer, a 1970s H. I. S. ivory button up shirt with lace accents and butterfly collar, 1980s Angelos textured gray wool slacks, and a hand-carved jade bear bolo. Quincy is looking dapper in a Michael Kohrs navy blue plaid suit jacket, a 1970s Spacecraft mint green button up short sleeve shirt, 1980s Levi Action Slacks graphite gray pin stripe pants, and a 1980s silk tie.

Left to right: Julie Passuccio, CWP,

ARTICLE BY CHELSEA LYN AGRO PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIKA SPAULDING

Living with Intention

Brandon Smith. He’s a public speaker, author, business coach, and host of The Missoula Podcast. Aside from his professional titles, he’s also a husband, father, and goal setter. With a confident voice and presence, it’s no surprise that Brandon was plucked from the mass of applicants who applied to speak at TEDxBillings this October to share his wisdom on the power of intent. After all, the theme is “Tomorrow Starts Today” and who better than a powerhouse Montanan to fuel an eager audience?

1. BRANDON, AFTER LEARNING ABOUT YOUR BOOK “HAPPY AS A HIPPO,” TELL ME A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR FAMILY LIFE AND HOW YOUR DAUGHTER ENCOURAGED YOU TO BRING THAT BOOK TO LIFE.

I’m a huge believer in just intentionally living. Most people enter their industry for one of two main reasons. It’s either earning capacity and/or lifestyle, yet we as a society are busier than we’ve ever been and still not satisfied with the results and something’s gotta change, and I think that’s our time and our calendar and being

intentional with what we do on a daily basis…In August of 2022, we were watching the movie “Along Came Polly,” and if you recall near the beginning, there’s a scene where [the French scuba instructor] makes a statement about the legend of the hippo—the hippo can never be happy if he has stripes like a zebra. I stopped in that moment—my wife and daughter were there—and I said, ‘Whoa, that would be a really fun children’s book.’ What if there was a story about a hippo where it was like funny but with actual core principal values that you can pull out of it? This whole idea of comparison is the theft of joy, and finding that happiness is just being content in who you are—who you’re meant to be.” In September or October of 2022, my daughter came home from school one day and just matter-of-factly said, ‘Hey Dad, I told my freshman English class about your book idea and we think you should write it.” I kept thinking about it and it was one of those things where everywhere I went there was something about a hippo…In January of 2023, it hit bookshelves. It happened.”

2. EXPLAIN TO ME HOW YOU GET THAT MESSAGE OF INTENTION ACROSS TO YOUR AUDIENCE AND HOW YOU MIGHT SHAPE THAT DISCUSSION IN BILLINGS.

I’ve been in the insurance, financial services, investments space for 20 years in August…I’ve found that a lot of those principals that apply to one industry apply to another and also apply to our personal life and a lot of times there are parallels—things we’re going through in our own life internally, and we’re also trying to figure out in our business. And so the intentional living piece—I have a presentation titled “Shortcuts,” because a shortcut is a route more direct than the route ordinarily taken...The right shortcuts help us achieve a healthier life. One shortcut off the top of my head would be, to protect your emotional wellbeing and mental health sometimes you have to avoid certain people. That’s a shortcut to a healthier life. That’s wisdom. So I’m a big fan of intentionally living and using your calendar. Creating your calendar to get you closer to those goals, whether it’s earning capacity or lifestyle. It’s interesting how often we hear people say they would really like to be able to workout but they just don’t have time. They’d love to go on a vacation but don’t have time. Well, those same people are binge-watching the latest season of The Bachelor and they’re trying to figure out their fantasy football roster…What’s important gets done. If it’s in your calendar—if you create a plan—your calendar will reflect the lifestyle you want to have. Creating life balance is the direction I’m going with my Ted Talk…What if the secret to happiness is simply being present in the moment?

3. WHO ARE YOU IN MISSOULA? WHAT’S SPECIAL ABOUT OUR COMMUNITY?

Born and raised here in Missoula. Attended Valley Christian School kindergarten through high school…

went away to college, went down to Texas for school, came back and joined the family business. When you get older and mature, you really realize how special of a place Missoula is— Western Montana. As I travel and see the country, people are always asking me about Yellowstone. Is that real life? Is that what it’s like in Montana? And through that, I realize what we have is really special. The rest of the country has been talking about us for the last couple of years and just the sense of community here. Roughly a year ago I started The Missoula Podcast and that came from the idea of we have over a hundred thousand people and a hundred thousand incredible stories right here in this valley. Why not create a platform for those stories to be heard? Just to encourage and inspire people—to have them get back to their dreams.

4. SINCE THIS IS THE GENTLEMEN THEMED ISSUE, CAN YOU LEND ANY ADVICE TO YOUR FELLOW MEN OUT THERE?

I look at sitcoms today and the dad is the butt of every joke. He’s lazy, he’s the laughing stock of the family, and no—we need both. We need the mom, we need the dad, we need the wife, we need the husband. We need each other. If I were to give a piece of advice to men, it would be don’t compare your beginning to somebody else’s middle. We’re trying to teach at a young age through the children’s book to be happy with who you are, don’t play the comparison game.

Brandon Smith is an award-winning public speaker, entrepreneur, and author. He hosts "The Missoula Podcast" and co-authored with his wife the best-selling children's book "Happy as a Hippo." He is a sought-after speaker, known for his ability to motivate and inspire audiences to think differently and reach their full potential. With 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, Brandon currently serves as the EVP of Development & Strategy for Glidewell, a Montanabased insurance and investment firm. He is also the founder of the Producer Development Program, a marketing and development program for independent insurance agents. Find him at BrandonSmith.pro

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Sarah Freeman, DPT Hannah Miller, DPT, CLT

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MEET JIM TODD

GHOST OF C.M RUSSELL, 1972

Woodcut print on paper

The grandfather of Missoula's artistic community

ARTICLE

BY SHELBY HUMPHREYS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIKA SPAULDING

If you’re curious about the latest in Missoula’s art scene, then stop in to stroll the studios of Radius Gallery. Co-owner Lisa Simon has made it her mission to amplify local and regional artists. Inside three exhibition spaces, you’ll find majestic landscapes, imaginative abstracts, and world-class ceramics. “This is a really good place to train your eye and get a bit of arts education yourself,” said Lisa. The gallery hosted a series of woodcut prints by master Missoula artist, Jim Todd.

THELONIOUS MONK, 1982

Woodcut print on white paper

JAMES WELCH, 1988

Woodcut print on paper

ANDREW GARCIA, 1986

Woodcut print on paper

CHARLES MARION RUSSELL, 1988

Woodcut print on paper

RICHARD HUGO, 1988

Woodcut print on yellow rice paper

Artist Jim Todd taught at UM’s School of Fine Arts for thirty years and is considered by many to be the “grandfather” of Missoula’s artistic community. He has watched Missoula artists evolve from striving to stand out in the crowd to mutually supporting one another in a changing market. “Galleries like Radius that encourage and respect their artists are more important than ever,” said Jim.

For his own work, Jim resonates with the creative philosophy of Picasso. “Long ago I decided not to confine myself to any particular artistic approach or aesthetic philosophy. Picasso’s attitude toward creativity probably influenced me as much as that of any artist.”

James G. Todd

James G. Todd was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He received his MFA in Painting and Printmaking from the University of Montana, where he went on to a 30-year career as a Professor of both humanities and art. RadiusGallery.com

JOHN JAMES AUDUBON, 1988

Woodcut print on paper

CHIEF CHARLO, 1986

Woodcut print on paper

THAT'S THE GOOD STUFF

ARTICLE BY SHELBY HUMPHREYS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIKA SPAULDING

CURATED SPECIALTY WHISKEY TASTINGS

In the heart of downtown resides a staple of Missoula’s bar scene known as The Rhino. And at the heart of The Rhino is owner Kevin Head. Kevin came to Missoula as a wildlife biology major at UM, although he jokes, “My primary major was partying.” Ironically, those party skills transferred well to his profession. Over 35 years in the bar industry has given Kevin a familiarity with many libations. Now, this lifelong learner passes on what he’s discovered about fine whiskeys by curating specialty tastings for everyday Missoulians.

In 1987, Kevin partnered with Brad Martens to open The Rhinoceros Bar. “We started with just three beers on tap,” Kevin said. Through a series of growth spurts in the 1990’s, their selection expanded to 50 beers. “That put us on the map. Back then, nobody had as many as we did,” he said.

Their growing stack of kegs in the back cooler was evidence that the American palate was changing. Most drinkers were already familiar with the nuances of how earth and weather transformed grapes into wine; now they were discovering how hops and barley could combine to make microbrews with more character than the ubiquitous yellow beer. It wasn’t a huge surprise, then, when whiskey got the same upgrade. Those glass bottles shining behind Montana bars began to proliferate with new vintages and styles. That’s when Kevin discovered that liquor could be more than just party fuel. “It was those single-malts that inspired my sweet tooth for whiskey. I had never had a drink like that before. It was something I could

LED BY RHINO OWNER KEVIN HEAD

spend time with and appreciate how well it's created. I learned to savor it instead of pounding it,” he said.

Throughout his years exploring the world of whiskey, Kevin has sampled legends and collected stories worthy of the slow sips that fine spirits inspire. “I remember finding a hidden treasure on a trip to Scotland,” he said. “It was called ‘Old Acquaintance’ and that’s still the whiskey by which I judge all others.” One of the most unusual pours Kevin sampled was the single-barrel known as “The Whiskey That Can’t Be Named” by Glenfarclas. “Every five minutes the nose and taste changed. First, it was like opening up a cedar spice chest. Then came more flavors: marzipan, coconut, dark chocolate, and orange. It’s the most unique whiskey I’ve ever had,” said Kevin. That vintage was stored for fifty years and bottles sold for $1,000 each at the time. However, Kevin insists that a higher price doesn’t always guarantee better quality. “I’ve tasted seven or eight six-figure shots in my life. Some were a symphony of flavor. Others started out great but ended like someone put a baseball bat in it. More expensive can mean rarer but not always better,” he said.

By 2021, when Kevin became sole-owner of The Rhino, he was regularly hosting tastings and continues to this day. He’ll gather six to eight different varieties, then line up the selection to maximize everyone’s flavor experience. “We start with smoother, simpler profiles. The very last whiskey is the strongest. Over a two hour tasting, folks will have about 2 and a half ounces total—enough to have a glow but not be too lit,” he said. While his audience partakes, Kevin shares interesting facts. For example, when American pioneers from Virginia moved to Kentucky, they switched from distilling rye to using corn. Distilleries in Bourbon County, Kentucky sent barrels down river to New Orleans. “That’s how it all came to be known as bourbon,” said Kevin. “In fact, to be called bourbon, a whiskey must be made from at least 51% corn. Also, the barrels can be used just once. So, back then, distillers were looking for a way to make money off their used barrels. That's when they began shipping casks to Scotland and the scotches started getting interesting,” he said. During tastings, Kevin listens for that sound which automagically arises when someone encounters an unexpected flavor. “When I hear that ‘oooh,’ I know I’ve done my job,” he said. Ironically, a flavor that one person likes can just as easily scrunch up the nose of the person sitting next to them. That’s the way Kevin likes it. “There’s something for everybody. That's what's fun about it. There’s always new things to try.” he said. Indeed, these days, old whiskey barrels that

“WHEN I HEAR THAT ‘OOOH,’ I KNOW I’VE DONE MY JOB."

- KEVIN HEAD

have given up their last zest often take second shift at microbreweries. Trace flavors hidden in the wood can be teased out to spice up a beer. This trend has given The Rhino a whole new way to partner with local microbreweries. For example, after having a 15-year-old George Dickel Tennessee Single-Barrel Whiskey specially bottled for the bar, Kevin had the barrel shipped to Missoula and filled it with Bayern Brewing’s Doppelbock. It sat for another six months and was tapped just in time for the holidays. “It was magnificent,” said Kevin.

So, what’s Kevin’s favorite drink now? “Depends on what’s in my glass,” he said. “There’s always something new. If it’s been a while, come on into the bar. We’re keeping it fresh, dynamic, and fun. The whole thing about this is making it accessible to everybody. We all deserve the good stuff every now and then.”

If you’d like to join a tasting, watch for the first Saturday in June when Kevin will introduce eight single malts to celebrate Ardbeg Day. If you can’t make it, you can join The Polished Horn Club to receive text alerts of upcoming tastings and special releases. Sign up and see the current list of all 50 beers on tap at RhinoMontana.com. If you’d like to schedule a private tasting, or have The Rhino provide a catered bar at your next event, call 406.721.6061 for contact information.

BudgetBlinds.com/Missoula 406-542-8282

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