Talking Business.

The Hidden Gems of Cloquet

The value of small businesses is often underestimated because they are small. But that doesn’t mean that the impact they have is small. In fact, small businesses have a huge impact not only on the national economy, but on the economy of their communities as well.

The intent of this site is to celebrate the Hidden Gems of Cloquet that may not be as well known as some of the medium and large businesses in the community.

Community of Hope: Bringing Warmth, Dignity, and Connection to Carlton County

Listen to the Podcast Here: Community of Hope In every community, there are people quietly doing transformative work, lifting up neighbors, filling critical gaps, and stepping into hard spaces where compassion is most needed. In the Cloquet, Esko, and Carlton areas, that beacon of hope is Community of Hope , a growing nonprofit dedicated to reducing homelessness and supporting underhoused individuals and families. Founded in March 2023 , Community of Hope was born from a sha

Shelly Peterson

6 hours ago3 min read

Bridges Customs - Where Creativity Meets Horsepower in the Historic West End

Listen to Podcast Here: Bridges Customs Tucked inside Cloquet’s Historic West End Business District, just off Vine Street, sits a shop unlike anything else in the region, Bridges Customs , a non-traditional automotive customization studio owned and operated by local craftsman and motorsports enthusiast Ryan Bridges . While many shops focus on repairs, detailing, or aftermarket accessories, Bridges Customs serves a very specific and passionate niche: drifters and performance

Shelly Peterson

3 days ago2 min read

S.J. Tattoo: Where Art, Healing, and Storytelling Meet

Listen to Podcast Here: S.J. Tattoo For Cassie Jares, tattooing is more than art — it’s restoration, renewal, and a way to reconnect with purpose. After spending five demanding years in Wyoming as an emergency medical technician, Cassie returned home to Cloquet with her husband seeking a new direction. The couple had spent their twenties working in high-stress public safety roles as first responders and law enforcement professionals. Coming back to Minnesota opened the doo

Shelly Peterson

Nov 102 min read

Auto Value Parts Stores: Where Service Is the Difference

Listen to the Podcast Here: Auto Value Did you know that Auto Value Parts Stores operate under one brand umbrella, with over thirteen locations across Northeastern Minnesota? Many don’t realize that Auto Value is much more than a local parts shop—it’s part of a trusted, family-owned network dedicated to both professional and do-it-yourself customers. Auto Value is owned and operated by Automotive Parts Headquarters, Inc. (APH) , a third-generation, family-owned aftermarket a

Shelly Peterson

Oct 202 min read