FARGO — Two giants of the region’s business world shared some stories and some laughs Wednesday, Sept. 20, during a 1 Million Cups event in Fargo.

Ron Offutt, founder and chairman emeritus of RDO Equipment Co., and Bill Marcil Sr., chairman of Forum Communications Co., which owns The Forum newspaper, chatted on the Stage at Island Park while answering questions posed by their children, Christi Offutt, CEO and Chairwoman of RDO Equipment, and Bill Marcil Jr., publisher of The Forum and president and CEO of Forum Communications Co., respectively.

Describing her father as the quintessential entrepreneur, Christi Offutt asked both interviewees about the biggest hurdle they faced building their respective businesses.
Bill Marcil Sr. said his most significant challenge was proving his mettle after marrying into a newspaper business owned by the family of his wife, Jane.

“I had to try harder. I worked hard at it, and I did it,” Marcil said.

Ron Offutt, who created the largest potato-producing company in the country, said his largest challenge was selecting the right people to help bring his ideas to fruition.
Asked what advice they would give to their 20-year-old selves, Offutt said people should follow their passion.

“If you love it, do it,” he said.