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The History of CougsFirst!

CougsFirst! has a captivating history rooted in the vision and camaraderie of our founders – Jack Thompson, Glenn Osterhout, Robbie Tobeck, Mike Bernard, Paul Dent, and Kyle Basler. They came together with a shared belief in the unique bond that unites Cougs and were inspired by their collective experiences as WSU alumni. Shortly after, this…

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Maximize Your CougsFirst! Membership

Unlock the Full Potential of Your CougsFirst! Membership Being a part of the CougsFirst! Community is not just about joining a network; it’s about leveraging a valuable resource to grow your business, expand your network, and connect with like-minded individuals who share the same passions.  We want to share with you some effective strategies to…

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New CougsFirst! Members – June 2023

Help us welcome these Coug businesses! Support these new members & “Cougle It” on the CougsFirst! Business Directory. We encourage you to “Think CougsFirst!” for your products and services! Beer, Wine, & Cider Event Planning Services Insurance Non-Profit & Fundraising Restaurants & Bars Real Estate & Mortgage Sports & Recreation Travel & Lodging *Crimson or…

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Podcast EP. 27 – Greg Porter, CBIZ

Defying the Odds & Finding Success in Taking Risks with Greg Porter If you enjoy football, business, and finding success in failures, consider this your sign to tune in to this newest podcast episode!  We’re talking to WSU alumni (class of ‘82) Greg Porter, Certified Public Accountant, Certified Valuation Analyst, and Master Analyst in Financial…

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CougsFirst! – A Network to Connect and Support Coug Businesses

You may have heard about CougsFirst! and our mission to promote the mindset of “Think CougsFirst!” But we often hear the questions: “What exactly is CougsFirst!?” or “How does CougsFirst! differ from the University and the Alumni Association?” In this blog post, we will explore the essence of CougsFirst! as a business network, our unique…

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A Year in Review Letter from Executive Director, Tony Poston

The Past 365 Days of CougsFirst! When I was hired as the Executive Director of CougsFirst! a little more than a year ago, we set out on some pretty lofty goals. Today, I’m excited to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve been on throughout the last year! GROWTH IN REACH & IMPACT Our flagship event,…

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Dave Whitehead – Podcast EP. 25

Leadership, Mentorship, and How to Transition in Your Career with Dave Whitehead Ever wondered how a 30+ year career can pivot and change? Or what it’s like to work for a company that started small and has grown exponentially? What about taking over the management of that company?  In this episode, we have something a…

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Memorial Day Deals 2023

Shop these discounts for a limited time only! Save this Memorial Day with Coug-owned and -managed businesses. BECU Get up to $700 toward closing when you buy or refinance a home with BECU. Offer valid through 6/30/23. Pike Brewing Get 15% off your entire bill at the Pike Brewing Taproom in Ballard by mentioning CougsFirst!…

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Cody Beebe – Podcast EP. 24

Graphic for the 24th episode of the CougsFirst! Podcast, featuring Cody Beebe

The Power of Leveraging Relationships, Building a Personal Brand, and Following Your Passions with Cody Beebe Being a multi-passionate entrepreneur takes a lot of work, and it certainly isn’t for everyone. But, if you are ready to take the leap, ask yourself, what will you gain from chasing your dreams? Our guest, WSU class of…

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Shop & Save at the CougsFirst! Show

Here is a sneak peek at some of the deals, discounts, and giveaways being offered at the CougsFirst! Show! Visit each business’s booth on May 12th for more info and to enjoy these exclusive deals. Coug Deals & Discounts Cross Country Mortgage – Booth 311/400 Save up to $2,198 when you purchase or refinance your…

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