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Independent bookstores have been declared "dead" more than once, yet places like The Bookshelf in downtown Kalispell continue to prove otherwise. Dave sits down with new owners Stefan and Tycy Berry to talk about taking the leap from loyal customers to bookstore owners, building a life in the Flathead Valley, and why physical books still create a sense of discovery, connection, and community that digital platforms can't replace.

The conversation explores the realities of owning a local bookstore, from supporting local authors and hosting events to trade-ins, tourism, and cultivating loyal readers. Stefan and Tycy also discuss the evolving reading landscape—Amazon, Barnes & Noble, e-readers, and AI—and why so many people still crave the experience of browsing shelves and finding an unexpected treasure. It's an encouraging look at small business, community, and the enduring value of independent bookstores.

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Heart of the Flathead is brought to you by:

• Glacier Investment Management
• Whitefish Financial Services

Heart of the Flathead, is produced by David Wigginton, in partnership with LeftBrainRightBrain Marketing. Listeners can find the podcast online at HeartoftheFlathead.com and LeftBrainRightBrain Marketing at lbrbm.com. The content for Heart of the Flathead podcasts and any show notes and transcripts are copyrighted by David Wigginton. All rights are reserved. Reproduction and rebroadcasting, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited without written permission. Contact David Wigginton by clicking the Send Us a Text link at the top of the episode description.

Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or production team. Appearance on the show does not constitute an endorsement of any goods, services, or opinions discussed. This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional, legal, medical, or financial advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions based on the content of this show.