Joe Brandl is a seasoned outdoor educator, survivalist, and historian with decades of experience in wilderness skills, Scouting leadership, and historical interpretation. He has lived and worked in some of the most remote regions of the American West, including the Gros Ventre Wilderness, and was featured on the international survival series Naked and Afraid.

Joe holds a degree in wildlife management and has taught outdoor education, leadership, and team-building courses for corporate groups, dude ranches, and Scouting organizations.

Through his business, Legacy of the Wild, Joe offers hands-on instruction in traditional survival techniques with a focus on self-reliance, character development, and respect for the natural world. Known for his authenticity, discipline, and deep knowledge of frontier life, Joe continues to inspire others through teaching, public speaking, and personal storytelling.

Learn more about his work on Facebook at Legacy of the Wild: Outdoor Skills & Leadership.

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Bernadette (Berni) Brown brings decades of experience and a deep commitment to healthcare and education. She began her career as a pediatric nurse in Great Falls, serving for 14 years before relocating to Billings. There, she founded and operated four Assisted Living Homes, where she wore many hats as the Nurse, Administrator, and Owner for 15 years.

In 2009, while still running her facilities, Berni was invited to teach CNA courses at the Lincoln Center—a role that quickly became a passion. For over a decade, she has guided students through the foundational skills of nursing assistance.

Her class has served as both a launchpad for students pursuing advanced medical careers and a strong entry point for those choosing to serve as CNAs in a field with urgent community need. Berni is proud to continue mentoring the next generation of compassionate, skilled caregivers.

Aimee Carlson
Aimee Carlson is a National Board-Certified Health & Wellness Coach and founder of She Force, a wellness movement designed to help women in midlife and beyond reconnect with their power, passion, and purpose. She brings warmth, insight, and deep listening to her work, creating a supportive space where women feel seen and energized.

Drawing on her expertise in mindset, metabolic health, and stress recovery, Aimee offers both individual coaching and group programs focused on real-life transformation. Whether it’s helping someone feel more rested, more grounded, or more in control of their health, Aimee meets people where they are and supports them in creating sustainable change.

She is also the host of the She Force Podcast and a dynamic community builder who believes that strong connections are at the heart of well-being. Her programs blend education, creativity, and coaching to help women move forward with clarity and confidence.

Visit Aimee's website

Ray was raised in the Bighorn Mountains of Wyoming and spent most of his life in Buffalo before making Billings, Montana his home for the past 20 years. A lifelong artist, Ray earned national recognition in 1981 by winning the U.S. VICA Olympic Gold Medal in Commercial Art and went on to represent the United States in the World VICA Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia. He has received numerous art awards throughout his career and holds a Bob Ross Landscape Level One Instructor Certificate. Ray enjoys teaching a variety of artistic mediums, including acrylic, watercolor, oil painting, and sculpture, and brings both passion and experience to every class.

Micayla is the heart and hands behind Grown Cozy, a creative brand born from her passion for crafting and connection. A Montana native with a love for cozy textures and calming spaces, she started hand-knitting chunky blankets as a way to unwind and bring comfort to her home. What began as a personal creative outlet quickly grew into a small business that now brings joy and warmth to people across the country.

With a background in education and a gift for making others feel at ease, Micayla's classes are as inviting as her blankets. She believes everyone has the ability to create something beautiful with their hands—and she’s here to guide you through every step. Whether you're new to crafting or just looking for a cozy new hobby, Micayla makes the experience feel fun, approachable, and inspiring.

Joanna owns Serve It Safe, LLC, and is a retired culinary arts teacher with over 23 years of classroom experience. She is a Certified ServSafe Instructor/Proctor and Certified ServSafe Alcohol Instructor. Joanna helped build and lead the nationally recognized Take Charge Today financial literacy curriculum at the University of Arizona. She has served on multiple state boards supporting Family and Consumer Sciences education. Originally from Deer Lodge, her favorite place is beautiful Georgetown Lake. She now enjoys teaching food safety, being outdoors, and making memories with her many grandchildren.