Matt Hansen shares his journey from construction worker to successful real estate entrepreneur and reveals why he believes Pocatello is on the cusp of reaching its full potential. Through conversation filled with local insights and practical wisdom, we explore how mindset, community investment, and appreciation for local character are transforming this Idaho town.

• Born and raised in the area, started in construction pushing a broom before working up to managing large-scale industrial projects
• Started buying and renovating houses in poor condition before getting his real estate license
• Emphasizes that positivity is a choice and the stories we tell ourselves become our reality
• Shares fascinating geological fact that none of Pocatello's topsoil is original—it was all washed away by the Bonneville Flood 15,000 years ago
• Describes Pocatello as a blue-collar town with educated, gritty people who love the outdoors
• Advises first-time homebuyers to take a chance on themselves and work with professionals to determine readiness
• Co-founded East Idaho Mastermind, a weekly coffee group supporting local entrepreneurs
• Notes Pocatello's housing remains affordable ($320,000 average) compared to places like California ($1.1 million average)
• Points to significant infrastructure investments and new businesses as signs of Pocatello's economic diversification
• Encourages residents to support local businesses and participate in community events like Revive at Five

Get in touch with Matt Hansen to learn more about real estate opportunities in Pocatello or join the East Idaho Mastermind meetings Monday mornings at 7am at Gate City Coffee.

A Southern accent stands out in Pocatello, but Brooks Hale's servant heart fits right in. As president of Bannock Civitans, this North Carolina transplant has discovered what makes a community truly special—the willingness of people to show up and serve.

Brooks shares his journey from occasional visitor to permanent resident, drawn by both Pocatello's outdoor accessibility and its tight-knit community feeling. "You can go five minutes in any direction here and be on a trail," he explains, highlighting the unique balance of small-town connection and natural beauty that defines this corner of Idaho.

What began as a required work activity—joining a service club—transformed into a genuine passion for making a difference through Civitan's mission supporting neurological disability research and local inclusion initiatives. From organizing the popular Revive at Five summer concert series to assembling backpacks for foster children entering a new school year, the Bannock Civitans demonstrate how volunteer power creates community transformation.

The conversation reveals the behind-the-scenes work of volunteers who orchestrate events many locals enjoy without realizing who's responsible. This servant leadership philosophy permeates everything they do, from partnering with New Day (whose slogan "Don't diss my ability" captures their spirit perfectly) to volunteering at My Brother's Table serving meals to those in need.

Brooks' warmth and Southern hospitality shine through as he extends an invitation to anyone interested in finding their place in the community. Whether you're new to town or simply looking to reconnect, the Bannock Civitans meet Wednesdays at noon at the Elks Lodge—and your first lunch with a sponsor is free. Experience firsthand how service creates belonging and transforms both communities and the individuals within them.

Terry Fredrickson's life took a dramatic turn when personal tragedy struck. After losing his brother to a heroin overdose, he abandoned his law school plans and redirected his energy toward addiction counseling, determined to prevent others from receiving the devastating phone call his mother had received. This pivotal moment launched a remarkable journey of service that has profoundly shaped Pocatello's community landscape.

As President of New Day Products and Resources, Terry has spent 15 years championing a revolutionary approach to working with people with developmental disabilities. "Don't diss my ability" isn't just a catchy slogan—it's the guiding philosophy behind an organization that employs over 100 individuals, focusing on their capabilities rather than limitations. From screen printing Idaho State University apparel to providing award-winning car detailing services, New Day creates meaningful employment experiences that build skills and confidence. When the pandemic struck, every single employee with disabilities chose to continue working at highway rest areas, understanding their essential role in keeping supply chains moving—a testament to their dedication and sense of purpose.

Baseball flows through Terry's veins, and in 2014, he and his wife Erica transformed their passion into community action by founding the Gate City Grays. Named to honor the Negro League's Homestead Grays who once traveled through Pocatello, the team has become a beloved fixture drawing crowds of up to 2,000 fans. What makes the Grays special isn't just baseball—it's the sense of authentic community connection. At a time when digital distraction dominates our lives, the ballpark becomes a rare space where people engage with each other rather than their phones, creating what Terry describes as a stadium that "breathes together."

Terry's philosophy—"what you have to give, society needs to have"—ripples through everything he touches, from his counseling practice to his involvement with Rotary and Civitan clubs. For anyone who claims there's nothing to do in Pocatello, Terry offers a friendly challenge: get involved. Through his multifaceted contributions, he demonstrates how one person's response to tragedy can blossom into a legacy of community service that transforms countless lives. Ready to experience the magic yourself? Catch a Grays game this season or discover how you might contribute your unique talents to making Pocatello an even better place to call home.