September 23, 2025
Megan is an extraordinary young woman. She is accomplished. She is a communicator. She has tremendous courage. And she is ready to work.
I am grateful to share her story. Now you can learn about Megan and help get her started in her career.
September 15, 2025
“Once you find something that works, you go all in on it.” -Francis Baalman
Francis Baalman is an entrepreneur. Even if he didn’t know what that word was as a child he knew he wanted to create a market and solve a problem for a profit at a very young age.
Francis wanted to be an entrepreneur so badly that he went to college and then he went to law school ,just so he could fund his future endeavors as an entrepreneur!
Francis owns real estate, he manages, he develops, he speculates, he provides lending solutions. all to bring value to other people while creating value for his family, his businesses and his future. And he wants you to know how to do it. Check out his podcast Property Pulse.
Francis shares how he created his orchard by planting one tree at a time. You can’t do this without sacrifice. So get started now.
September 6, 2025
Economist Michael Austin answered the call to solve a problem. The request came from Councilman Dalton Glasscock, "What are some things we can do to shore up Wichita's budget shortfall?"
You can Lead in public service. It doesn't require you work for the government or you are an elected official-- Lead because it's the right thing to do for your community.
Michael Austin isn't even a resident of Wichita. His Leadership in understanding economic issues throughout the State of Kansas has created positive outcomes. And Michael took a look at the Wichita budget shortfall, created a coalition of talented people with suitable backgrounds to work on this problem, and they took action.
The result:
FINDING A BETTER WAY
A Citizen-Led Review of Wichita's Budget and Efficiency Opportunities
August 26, 2025
"Don't Gatekeeper what you know."
Taking action in life creates experiences. Experience creates personal growth. We need to promote more growth rather than change.
Wichita By EB is all about experiences and he is sharing his with us every day on his social media platforms, his website and in his blog, Wichita By EB.
He’s an interesting person. He is a talented person. He’s really just a good person and he’s asking you to start to take action to create your own experiences.
The good news is he’s giving you plenty of ideas and opportunities to engage with life @wichitabyeb
August 16, 2025
"Dear Megan, You Got This!" -Megan Bailey
Rainbows United is an extraordinary organization that helps families and kids who need a little bit more guidance on helping through potential developmental difficulties. My friend Michelle Eastman spent her career thus far, dedicated to these families and these children. It is because of her that I’ve had the opportunity to experience what they do for people and how their lives are always changed for the better.
Megan Bailey is the beneficiary of Rainbows United. Now she is a 24 year-old young woman who graduated Magnum Cum Laude from the Wichita State University. She wants to share her story. She wants to share her voice: My life with a disability.
It is my distinct honor to share with you, Megan Bailey. She is full of joy and she communicates it in a magnificent way. This is Megan’s voice.
rainbowsunited.org
August 14, 2025
"The Declaration [of Independence] was a promissory note to Americans." -James Franko
The Kansas Policy Institute spends all of its time in deep research to hold the government and the legislators accountable. A free society is one that gives its citizens the greatest opportunity and the policies should match (or the lack of policies and laws should match).
Along with the Kansas Justice Institute, the Kansas Policy Institute seeks to provide knowledge to the people so they can hold governement accountable for its actions.
A self described optimistic curmudgeon, James has dedicated his career to both social and economic freedom for all. And he's one of the most affable and intelligent people to have a conversation with-- thanks for your work.
Please visit Kansaspolicy.org and join them at their next function September 16, 2025 with their distinguished guest Kimberley Strassel, Wall Street Journal.
August 12, 2025
"Not a whole lot changed, it was more Mindset." -Noel Torres, Founder Wichita Training Center
The intensity of combat sports requires that you have discipline. The costs are too high to not prepare every day. If you are not-- your opponent is.
Noel Torres is an NCAA Division II National Champion, former member of the Mexican World Wrestling Team, a Teacher, A Coach, Father, Husband and all around good human being.
He is disciplined.
Noel discovered that his discipline in training for his wrestling career transcended sport and those lessons are applicable to life. He now has a micro-school developed out of his Wichita Training Center-- The Wichita Training Center Academy. The principles he lives by are taught every day to young kids. He is preparing them for life. When you can do hard things, every day, and keep showing up, you can win in life.
Noel helps create winners in life.
August 4, 2025
"I played the game different because I had to. I only knew one way." -- Matt Baty, former Div. I athlete and Entrepreneur
The NCAA ruled college sports with an iron fist for decades-- it was unconstitutional.
NCAA wants control.
"The student athlete -- to me, the regulations need to be around the student“ states Matt Baty, former Senior Associate Athletic Director for the University of Kansas.
It’s clear that the NCAA wants control. In June 2021 the Supreme Court ruled 9 to 0 in the NCAA v. Alston that the NCAA rules violated the Sherman Antitrust Act.
And the term NIL was born! (and for some reason, Name Image & Likeness is confusing the hell out of people)
It’s also giving athletes opportunities to profit and through those profits they create opportunities for many more people.
Matt Baty was a student athlete at the highest level. He worked for one of the greatest programs in college athletics at the highest level. He coaches kids of all ages to get the best out of each one of them so that they can improve their lives.
And congratulations Coach on your first Kansas State baseball Championship at Trinity Academy.
If you really want control, teach an individual the disciplines so that they can go on and become successful in their own life.
July 28, 2025
Growing a national technology and remaining connected to your customers is daunting. However, it is what has made Co-Founder Steve Werner stay connected to the point of service, allowing Lawn Buddy and Blue Ox to iterate in real time. Improving your product and service through customer conversations is what makes their technology optimal for other Entrepreneurs to scale.
And Steven Werners commitment to optimizing Entrepreneurs' opportunity is inspiring.
July 21, 2025
"I am thinking "these are the boots that I have to fill?" -- Matt Sain, CEO
An unfair opinion from society is that if you have inherited a business, all the work has been done and business is easy. It is one of the greatest myths and family business.
Matt Sain Is second generation for central body RV collision. They have six locations across four states. Matt started with one. And his roots and his family business go back to him sleeping on a cot in a small space above the shop floor.
No business is easy. You have to work in it before you can ever scale to work on it. Matt remembers telling himself "dad weathered hard storms like this." And after working in it, things can and do turn. He standardized excellence. This is his story about focus and those who helped to get him where they are today.
July 14, 2025
Michael and I met many years ago at a conference. He was speaking about conflict resolution. One of the 12 books he has authored, Collaboration Effect, is what drew me to him.
Entrepreneurs collaborate. Large scale Institutions lead to collectivism. We are better people when we collaborate.
Mike Gregory is a successful Entrepreneur becuase of his discipline. After 28 years working in the Internal Revenue Service and with the United States Treasury, he had every opportunity to take those skills to a lucrative career with a large Corporate Accounting firm.
He chose himself over a guaranteed healthy salary. He made the right choice.
Michael has influenced tens of thousands of lives through his Consulting work. He has spoken to CEO's and leaders of Fortune 500 Companies multitudes of times. He had a common message-- you can resolve human confflict and improve lives through decency, respect and a willingness to be human.
Congratulations Michael. And I wish you all the best in your next chapter in life.
July 7, 2025
"When we stop having that dialogue, it makes it difficult to achieve that more Harmonious success."
--Clint Stevens, Founder
Clint Stevens spent his military career reducing vulnerabilities. As a cyber security expert, he worked closely with the Department of Defense to keep our country safe from cyber threats. Clint founded Phy-Cy.X to take that capability and help private companies thrive by reducing the thousands of cyber threats that happen every minute of every day, as we are all connected.
Since we’re not going to stop being connected, we need to reduce the threat. Clint Stevens approach to solving this problem is unique.
June 30, 2025
Mentorship plays a vital role in shaping success, and its impact is especially profound for young men. Sean Gates understands this firsthand; as a young man, he believed that having a mentor could have transformed his early adult life. This conviction inspired him to create Gates Institutes—an initiative dedicated to empowering the lives of young people through meaningful engagement, paving the way for a brighter future for all of us.
While Sean possesses extensive academic knowledge, it is his genuine heart and deep respect for others that truly set his program apart and make it compelling.
June 23, 2025
"When you start pulling the string on one thing it begins to unravel the other problems." -Stacy Rogers
Entrepreneurs make great leaders because they are solution focussed. Stacy Rogers is a successfull Entrepreneur and she is running to lead the State of Kansas as it's next Governor.
She is looking to collaborate with experts to formullate ideas to solve problems in Kansas. From easing up on the regulatory environment for Business to uncovering waste, fruad and abuse-- Stacy has a plan and she is taking her message directly to the people of Kansas.
She will likely be in your community some time before the primary in August of 2026. She is approachable, smart and has the conviction to face difficult challenges. Connect with Stacy and do your part to particiate in the process.
June 16, 2025
"When and incident happens here, how are we hoing to react to it? That's what good stewardship is." -Damon Young
Talking with Damon about difficult things is comforting because he has a deep understanding of empathy . Leadership is communication and Damon wants to lead externally and with purpose. It’s important for all of us to be open to the fact that we are wrong, and that comes with criticism.
And together, we can seek solutions “without the burden of being sure” because that burden is unfair.
June 10, 2025
Joan Vassos, herself a huge FAN of the Bachelor franchise, was a contestant on the Golden Bachelor and then received the honor to come back to be the first Golden Bachelorette. And she is a remarkable woman. She chose Wichitan Chock Chapple for the final rose. They are engaged to be married and living a dream. They share with me what it is like to try and find love under tremendous pressure-- with the world's eyes on them. Joan and Chock talk with me about living their lives together in the "outside world" as they live the reality of love and relationship. Joan and Chock live their lives with purpose. We are so happy they both "decided to take a chance." And now they are making each other's lives better.
June 3, 2025
Austen Cohlmia and his family have been creating unique brands in the food business for decades.
Stive Freemilk is an altenative product for those wanting a substitute from cow's milk and still maintain the quality and texture we love. They have packed it with 10g of protein so it is perfect for those lookig to suplement thier fuel.
And Austen has a lot to contribute when it comes to fueling your body for peak performance. He had competed at the highest levels of body building. Now he trains and coaches others towoards a stronger, more moble and healhy life.
Listen to him on his podcast Iconversations only after you hear him now on the ictpodcast.com
May 27, 2025
Fair Market Health gives patients the opportunity to seek better services for a better price. Competition is crucial for optimizing goods and services. Each individual needs to craft their healthcare plan. A majority of Americans believes that the only way to access healthcare is through an insurance policy. This discussion is not a debate on whether or not that is the best solution for the individuals healthcare outcomes. Each person has to make that decision on their own. This is a discussion about providing alternatives so that you can seek the best care and the best outcomes.
Dean Jargo, the CEO of Fair Market Health is sharing how their product is pairing patients with doctors and healthcare providers directly. Need a teeth cleaning? Go to Fair Market Health and see how much it costs for a dentist who will just simply take cash. And this goes for your dermatology appointments, a knee replacement, or a well woman exam... nearly every medical need is available for direct payment on fairmarkethealth.com .
Alternatives help us all make better decisions because we have more freedom of choice. Freedom of choice in health care is a core principle for many, as it directly impacts personal well-being and autonomy
.Visit freemarkethealth.com.
Optimize the healthcare services you need.
May 12, 2025
"Be that spark to get people to look at hings differently." -Adam Hartke
Music in Kansas has been overlooked for so long and these guys see that almost as a benefit. Adam and Jesse are leaning into our community and making it better by bringing an experience of music to the people.
Adam and Jessie Hartke partnering with Chase Koch, brought us Elsewhere Fest in 2024.
Not only was it an incredible musical explosion for Wichita, they created Social Change, bringing us together through music.
This summer they are bringing us Somewhere -- Somewhere-Fest & Conference, June 13 and 14th 2025. somewhere-fest.com
Everything that they did with Elsewhere, they learned, they adapted and they said "let’s make this even more magnificent." This festival with World-Wide talent and talent from Wichita is especially designed for all-- all ages and all humans (perhaps a dog).
"Music is an archetypal need," Jessie professes.
Come and experience the show-- that’s the offering to the fans. The music is just the advertisement.
Be Somewhere.
May 5, 2025
"The thing that they often do not have in front of them is possiblities." -Robert Feeney
Robert is solving a big problem; helping a generation become Future Ready. His software, RingoRang, gamifies making choices to change behaviors.
When there is a continuity to decisions you can relate to people and gain wisdom. And that makes you resilient. Knowledge As A Service CEO, Robert Feeney wants to help translate your skills into this game of life.
April 28, 2025
"Its not the energy that the governement is driving, its the Energy that the Private Sector is driving." -Dalton Glasscock
Property Rights are fundamental to Liberty. They encourage economic investment and incent people to participate in the improvement of what they own.
We must be clear and we must support this ideal. Protecting individual freedoms are at the core of a prosperous society. Stability and Harmony extend community engagement.
April 21, 2025
"We were not focussed on 'The Finding'. That was the problem." - Mark Janzen
"Company Values were mission critical. One of our values is FUN." - Jacob Schlittenhardt
Planetary Talent was launched first as an idea, then as a business because two Entrepreneurs hated hiring. "It was an awful system on both sides," co-Founder and serial entrepreneur Mark Janzen proclaimed.
So they did what entrepreneurs do, they sought out the solution to this problem. And this problem has a solution rooted in Optimism. Trends on earth are that fast growing companies need to higher humans. Planetary Talent will be the Global connector of people seeking jobs for the next few centuries and beyond!
April 14, 2025
"I am definetly more impactful because I am sharing it now." -Kijuan Amey
Kijaun Amey was living his life to the fullest. With service to our country in the Air Force, an Entrepreneur running his first business, a Musician playing weekly and going to school full-time for an advanced degree-- Kijaun was working on every aspect of his life.
A tragic motorcycle accident changed all that. He lost his sight. His body was crushed. His life was changed forever.
Why does Kijaun have the outlook on life that he can and is doing more today? Because even with his lack of sight he grew his vision for how life can be led. He is sharing who he is and asking us to share who we are to make a greater impact on the world.
April 7, 2025
"The point of the Law is so people know what they are and are not supposed to do." -Judge Roush
Judge Roush serves the Wichita community by taking his role seriously. Criminal proceedings are part of society. The process deserves the greatest respect for the law and the citizens. As Judge Roush states, "Shouldn't the community want someone trustworthy with that authority?"
Judge Roush takes action so that justice is "Swift, Certain and Fair." We live in a better community because of his service. We are grateful for it.
March 31, 2025
"Nobody controls your attittude but you." -- Cary Cozby
Spring is in the air. The Ezallias are in bloom as well as the Bradford Pear with its acrid odor. And it is time once again for the world's best golfers to return to the Masters Tournament in Augusta, GA.
Golf is a wonderful game. It teaches and parallels many of life's lessons.
Our friend and golf professional, Cary Cozby, who embodies the essence of the game, shares why it remains a vital part of his life. Golf is a place "where simple things, when done right, can change your life."
March 25, 2025
"You really don't have an income problem, You have a tax problem."
--Beau Eckstein
Beau coaches people into ownership.
Entrepreneurs and founders take ownership from the beginning, and cash flow comes from that. Along the way, there are an enormous amount of hurdles and the entrepreneur navigates each one.
As an employee, especially a highly compensated employee, bridging the gap to ownership seems like a large hurdle. Beau has the skills and the knowledge developed over his 30 year career to help you bridge that gap to ownership. It will improve your life.
March 17, 2025
"You have to take responsibility for the outcome of the game you are playing"
Entrepreneurs bring forth the creativity that inspires the rest of the world to start. Without the leadership of ACTION from the Entrepreneur, humanity would lounge in the pool of mediocrity.
March 10, 2025
"If you want to grow the eceonomy, Education is the foundation." -Michael Austin
Michael shares substantive ideas on how to improve the education system and improve opportunities for Kansans, Americans. He discusses the consequences of acting without a plan and how Accountability will lead to prosperity.
March 3, 2025
The Department of Governement Efficiency has caused damn near everyone to shout. Those who are tired of governement over-reach and have a genuine fear over deficits are bellowing and those who say this practice of uncovering where the government spends money and how are crying loudly because they don't want to know that information? (I am not quite sure of that side of the argument)
So Dr. Dix comes in to give historical context on governments, economics and debts as we play DOGE Bawl.
February 25, 2025
"Your enjoyment to everything increases as your awarness increases." -- Sophie Uliano
Dedication, persistance and curiosity towards a worthy ideal-- this is the life Sophie lives and she will coach you to take action on yours.
Sopihe Uliano will IGNITE your life!
February 17, 2025
"Finding out what you are doing wrong is not a pleasant experience. It means that you have to sacrifice part of yourself-- usually a burned-out, stupid, corrupt, vengeful part-- but none-the-less, part that you like." -Jordan B Peterson
This is the process we are experiencing in American Governance today. The problem is out in the open. If your mind is avoiding or burrying this reality, the charade persists and there is no sacrifice. If you allow your mind to use critical thinking, we can help solve the problem and choose the sacrifice and American govenrnment can begin to improve incrementally. You can participate in bringing value to our Nation.
"Its a humble thing to do to ask how can you improve incrementally." -JB Peterson
Americans deserve better from our government. We know the value of a Constitutional Republic. If you refuse to accept the wrong doing of government, the disentigration of the idea of value itself is the consequence. However, we can meet this challenge and begin the process of incremental improvement.
"The consequences of maintained incremental improvemenmt are anything but incremental."
I am optimistic.
February 10, 2025
"I came with a strong message at a time people needed it." -Tom Hegna
Tom teaches people simple, applicable ideas to take action towards accumulating money-- some people call it Retirement. I prefer to think of it as financial freedom, in any event, he will make the habit of doing it easier for you.
Tom has a dynamic personality. And that is often what it takes to get people to take action.
Tom Hegna has a great story. He was entrepreneurial as a young child growing up in Minnesota. His ealry career in the military and in corporate America are not the route an entrepreneur usually takes. And he still had the courage to take action and create for himself.
He is an Author, a Public Speaker and an Entrepreneur of the best kind-- he practices what he preaches.
Preach Tom!
February 3, 2025
"I thought, You are going to have to give up a lot of what your friends are doing if you want to do this." -Conor Adler on his commitment
Entrepreneurs are artists in their own way. They have to be creative and they have to think and look at things in ways others have not. Conor Adler has a very unique way of looking at things. He says himself that "you have to be intellectually curious to care about Founders."
Wichita is uniquely positioned with an enormous amount of Founders with talent. What NXTUS and Accelerated Venture Partners are doing is connecting the Angel investor money with the Founders. Founders learn to be capital efficient and that’s how they get so much out of the resources they have. Growing our community of entrepreneurs is the best economic growth plan for this community.
Conor is a songwriter which means you’ve gotta be good at telling a story. The story he is sharing is activating our Entrepreneurs & Founders with the capital so they can scale for success right here out of Wichita USA.
January 28, 2025
"Even if I have these ambitions, let's be practical." - Hayden Reece
Author of The American Mandate, Hayden Reece does difficult things. He was on his own by the age of 16, proceeded to earn a Professional Welding Certification so he could have a practical skill to be employed, obtained licenses to sell insurance products, worked from entry level pizza delivery boy to Managing several Little Ceasars, on to food safety and agriculture technology for chemical free agriculture development. And then he wrote a book; a deeply personal and well researched 600 page book.
Hayden is 22 years old.
Hayden learns by doing and askin a lot of questions because he genuinely wants to seek solutions. His American Mandate is not a collection of complaints it is a practical guide to solutions. He is asking questions respectfully and inviting action from the people for Solutions.
order American Mandate on amazon.com
January 20, 2025
"Our Thoughts are influenced by our Energy." -- Tammy Cho, pathtotheheart.com
Have the courage and the desire to be authentic. Tammy Cho works with people to experience their Soul's calling.
As a Healthcare Professional and Entrepreneur she suffered breakdown and burnout. When you are faced with this adversity, the way through is finding your truth. Tammy found the "edge" that was directly correlated with her pain and trauma.
On her podcast Authentic Leaders Rising she expands on how our Energy reveals our confidence and worthiness. With Self-Love there is a path to the heart.
January 13, 2025
Knowledge comes from experience-- so does Perspective.
Leo Kiesling's perspective on life developed from circumstances and from doing. "We don't sit around and feel sorry for ourselves. If you want change, you make it," he extoles.
A life of doing, taking action, is so rewarding. The more challenges you endure the more resiliant you are. You can't build your immune system without a collision of differences. And be smart about it too. "Don't ever get into trouble you can't handle," Leo urges.
Clear vision increases your surface area for success. This is a truth I have learned from the best entrepreneurs. Enjoy the Perspective.
January 6, 2025
Sonder: a profound feeling that each passerby is living a life as vivd and complex as your own.
Jason is telling you the concerns and the excitement he has with ai. Jason is sharing how he is working to implement "this need of trust you're going to need peer-to-peer."
As a human being we are all guilty of taking the easy way out. Jason talks about us "avoiding the mud" because we can-- technology has allowed us to in many ways.
"And that might be fine for today" but can lead us to shunning challenge and ultimately to profligate.
We must challenge this life that we have. This is what Digital Integrity, Jason's Non-Profit, does for people, for businesses for communities-- utilize ai tools AND do the work.
This ai is a tool and a very valuable one. Consider the uses. Jason Toevs has a cautionary approach to this tool that can be a teacher.
Beware of the tool that can evolve from teacher to friend to lover to master.
December 30, 2024
"All of us have been working in silos. Now it is time to collaborate." -Mayor Wu
Politics is not about Leadership. It is the misguided pursuit and side-tracting element of percieved power. It leads to squadered opportunities.
Public Service is about Leadeship. Lily Wu is a Public Servant.
And leadership is a requirement of all capable people for a community to thrive.
Lets not confuse a loud voice with a willingness to solve a problem. Problem solving takes work and communication. Screaming about an issue to draw attention is what a toddler does after dropping their Binky.
Doing the work is "taking ownership of your neighborhood," Mayor Wu affirms, "I want to elevate that."
Wichita is elevated with the Leadership of Mayor Wu. She works for Wichitans through communication every day. Face-to-face and event-to-event; Lily serves the people.
Solutions to problems take action. Lliy Wu is taking action on Crime, public safety, Wichita streets and Economic Development. I thank Mayor Wu for her active Leadership.
Wichita is winning.
December 24, 2024
"It's hard to learn when you are not neccessarily wanting to learn." Grant Johnson, Founder
Do want to know how to learn or do you want to know the information?
I'm here to learn! And Grant Johnson takes that even further as he contemplates "learning what you are advantaged to and what you are not advantaged to do."
Grant Johnson has the confidence to pursue his full potential. And that can be a challenge when the customary path for intelligent students is High School to College, College to Advanced Degree. Grant's curiosity is insatiable and so he takes action.
Chatterbox is the gamified application that he Founded. Chatterbox will help you learn that next language because it incentivizes you to "keep your streak." We can accomplish amazing things when we work at it.
Find him @grantjohnsonCreates on the social platforms. This guy is dynamic.
December 17, 2024
"Fail fast. If it ends up not being the right decison, fail fast!" -Corey Westphal, Founder/CEO
mobileassistant.us
We need room in our brains for imagination and creativity for problem solving. Using technology tools for data and information for reference is a great way to support that. Corey Westphal has spent his career developing tools using technology for data and transcription. Mobile Assistant has iterated to meet and exceed client expectations with rapidly eveloving technologies.
Mobile Assistant is debuting a feature that allows customers to us AI to curate knowledge, trends and statistics based on existing data that has been stored. It is a differentiator for their customers who have relied on the Talk It tool.
Knowledge is power. Combining knowledge and Imagination maximizes the potential for remarkable outcomes.
December 9, 2024
"Facts are stubborn things." -Dr. Dix quoting John Quincy Adams
Facts matter in legal and moral discussions. We have come to that proverbial turning point in our society. A turning point where the public discovered the terrible consequences of censored speech. And many emerged with wisdom. The wisdom to encourage all to participate in the discussion while valuing the voices and actions of those who truly contribute to society.
Dr. Dix regales us with his deep understandng of history and economics as we peel the layers on this metamorphisis. One thing is certain, we are in a moment of inspiration. What are you going to do with it?
December 2, 2024
"The greateset harm to the environment is people living in poverty."
-Warren Martin, Executive Director Kansas Strong
Nearly 60% of the energy people in the United States consume and depend on comes from oil & natural gas.
Energy needs are increasing. Reliable energy is a basic need for human flourishing.
The industry has been under irresponsible persecution over the last 4 years. It impacted us all every time we went to the supermarket. "The grocery bag is what decided this election," states Warren Martin, "there is energy cost in every gallon of milk."
Artificial mandates for unreliable energy sources are hard on consumers. It is those living at other beloe the poverty line who are effected more than anyone else.
We must embrace the full strength of our energy capacity. The United States is stronger with robust oil & gas production. This is what makes Kansas Strong.
November 22, 2024
"I walked by a Radio Shack in the 1970's and saw a TRS 80 and it changed my life." -Charles Rose
It was technology that drove Charles early in his career. It was human psychology that gave him purpose.
Charles Rose had a successful exit from the technology business he started. When he was at the moment of his greatest success he was also alone.
We often normalize behaviors that reduce our human value because it leads us to a desired outcome. Once the outcome is achieved we can lack purpose.
Charles Rose supports high achievers who often neglect innate value. Listen to how he serves people.
November 19, 2024
"Shelter is just that-- shelter. It is not long term." Ryan Gates, Executive Producer
Homelessness is a challenge, a problem, a fear, a sadness, a human condition that requires humanity to solve. Wichita, Kansas and communities all over the Unites States want a solution. It is Wichita, Kansas that is putting poeple together to "triage" resources to end homelessness.
Ryan Gates documentary Hope In The Heartland, Wichita's Quest to End Homelessness is a call to action. We are all responsible for the solution.
November 12, 2024
"This game has revealed the grace of play." -- Buff Farrow
We all should strive to win the game however, the most important thing is to be able to play the game.
Lifelong tennis players, Buff Farrow and Leo Estopare are welcoming all of us back to playing the game of tennis with their creation Lite Tennis.
Innovation comes from passion and these two gentlemen have a tremendous passion for tennis and for the opportunity to bring people to playing tennis.
November 5, 2024
"Every time I get on stage I get better at something."
--Sierra Scott, founder It’s All Good
The move to Independent Journalism has exploded since 2020. The environment is fertile with opportunity for a Journalist to be an Entrepreneur. Seizing the chance to tell the story the way they see fit— absent a News Director or Corporate influence.
Sierra Scott has been an Entrepreneurial Journalist for well over 20 years. She had the courage to leave what is now referred to as the “Legacy Media”. In an effort to escape the tarnished and captured news media’s obsession with negative stories, Sierra had the point of view to tell the good news. And the bosses would not capitulate to her positive storytelling so she said “good bye” and in many ways became a pioneer of the independent journalist.
Sierra is the example of how life gets better for all when you take positive actions.
October 28, 2024
"I have an album in my phone of haters." - Wichita by E.B.
Sharing your creativity is important and it takes a little courage. For people to grasp on to your creaivity is a rewarding experience-- most of the time.
Wichita by E.B. is authentically sharing his experiences and he has become the Guide for tens of thousands of people in South Central Kansas.
I love what this guy does and I respect the way he does it. He is credible and he is authentic. Make sure you start to follow Wichita by E.B.
October 21, 2024
"Love is like the #1 ingrediant... taste the love." - Chef Kevin LeBron
larchersmarket.com
A Professional Chef is an Artist and a Scientist and an Entrepreneur. Kevin LeBron has spent his life cooking. The restaurant business is the start of of many peoples' working career and the inspiration for many who become Entrepreneurs.
To go from cooking to a Head Chef to the Operations Manager takes an embrace of the grind. "I love the concept of food, the culture of food," Chef LeBron professes as he wears his heart on his sleeve for the passion of cookoing and creating a unique experience for his customers every day.
October 15, 2024
"There was no 'they'. Why Can't we be, THEY!?" -- Grant Mitchell, CEO Every Cure
Every Cure has powerful solutions for people seeking them and they did not invent them. The most effective soliutions connect individuals in need with those who offer a product-- specifically in this case a repursosed pill.
Billions of dollars are spent researching and develeopning pharmacutical drugs and often times that R&D sits on a shelf because it does not know who to give it to. Developed for one reason, there likely are applications for another solution and "they" do not know that.
Every Cure became the "They" because their Co-Founder David Fajgenbaum was one of those patients needing the drug that was sitting on that shelf with no one to connect the two.
It is an origin story our of desparation, courage, application of dedicated intellect, fear and an affliction that would lead to certain death because there was semingly no cure.
Grant Mitchell lives his life thoughtfully and with intention. This means he pursues things because one of the disciplines in his life is to "Just Show Up." And when you show up with intention you see "what you can do in life to create greater surface area."
When you increase your surface area you can connect people and it leads to solving problems. Every Cure is solving the biggest problems-- they are saving lives.
October 7, 2024
"It's about your reputation in the marketplace and that sounds scary for lots of people."
-James Franko, President Kansas Policy Institute
I always thought honesty was the best policy. We have to be willing to work towards better policy and that means getting rid of policy that has not worked. Our Constitution and the Bill of Rights create the framework for good policy. It is an experiment in self government. Hanging on to bad policies leads to bad government. We must continue to experiment and communicate to create policy that protects Constitutional freedoms. Individually we have the responsibility to act. It leads to better policy.
September 30, 2024
"I noticed opportunities and I would show up." -Dre Baldwin
Dre never saw failures or disappointment-- he only saw opportunity. As a young athlete with a desire to get better, he sought out opportunities to get himself in position to get better. He was always working on his game and now he wants you to work on your game.
When you’re stuck, or you can’t seem to get traction, you need to “put yourself on a better roster“ and that means surrounding yourself with better people.
Dre has built a first class coaching platform. To improve, you need confidence and you need experience. Dre‘s going to help you get both. You will find greater success and a balanced life. Work to collaborate. Work on your mindset. Work on your game.
September 23, 2024
"Innovation gets confused with Invention-- they are not the same words or case." -- Luis Rodriguez
Luis works to help others understand how and where technology can be used to improve their lives and business.
"The scientific method is computational thinking," he proclaims. And it is that computational thinking that needs to be introduced early in the education process so kids have a chance to explain things in this manner.
Education and integration of technology must happen at all levels. As we pursue solving difficult problems we must embrace and apply technology. Flagship Kansas was created for this purpose. Luis is making the connections and he is thoughtful in his approach and he wants us to participate.
September 16, 2024
"When you are a game-changer, you may be ahead of the Game." -Anita Greenwood
"Show me. Don't tell me." -Damon Young
"A Strategy is a disproportionate allocation of Resources." -Brandon Gaide
The Emerging Leaders class of 2024 from Leadership Kansas gathered at Groover Labs to share ideas and a discussion with a panel of dynamic thinkers and Leaders. Damon Young, Brandon Gaide and Anita Greenwood had time to make personal connections with this class of Young Leaders from all across the State of Kansas.
We can take of big problems and solve them when we collaborate. This group of young leaders is not only approachable but also courageous in taking action. Kansas is a unique state, and our future depends on our willingness to embrace challenges and strive for meaningful progress toward greater prosperity.
I want to thank Manroj Sangha for his Leadership and for the opportunity to host this discussion. And thank you Groover Labs for hosting.
September 9, 2024
"If you know the odds then maybe you'll never start."
-- David Sasson
David came to this country because he knew the opportunity was better. Whatever he wanted to do he knew he had a better opportunity in the United States.
We learn our greatest lessons about opportunity from first generation Americans. We also see how successful you can become when you do not waste it.
September 3, 2024
"I can find out what their pain points are and go find the right solution." -Ryan Selenke
Accessibility to fast, accurate and safe payments has opened up opportunities for entrepreneuurs all over the worlrd. When you have the ability to exchange freely on the opend market, your business can scale and rapidly increase it's customers.
Ryan Selenke founded Reliant Merchant Services because he understood that. Finding solutions for his customers is his unique ability. He admits, "no one is goindg into a coffee shop to buy because of a payment system."
Customers do choose where to send their money based on the experience they have and Ryan wants to help improve the customer experience.
Most importantly, Ryan impacts lives through he and his wife's dedication to Fostering children. It is at the foundation of who he is, what he does and why he does it. I am grateful to share his entrepreneurial journey.
August 26, 2024
"I am interested in what facts informed your viewpoint." -- Commander Lippold
October 12, 2000 the terrorist bombing of the USS Cole while refueling at port in marked an impotant line in the way the Unites States deals with terrorists. All terrorism is state sponsored. Therefor, we have to respond differently to protect the United States of America.
Commander Kirk Lippold was in charge that day. His leadership that day is proven by the fact that the USS Cole is still in service to our Country today. That vessel should have sunk. It was the leadership, training, honor and courage of the Crew that saved the USS Cole.
Commander Lippold wrote a fantastic book, Front Burner Al Qaeda's Attack on the USS Cole. And it is an important read for everyone, especially Americans. In a world full of indoctrination, falsehoods, failed leadership and divisiveness; We the People must take the responsibility to inform ourselves, think empathically and take action.
I am grateful to share this conversation with a man of Honor who lives his life with dignity and in service to others-- Thank you Commander Lippold.
August 19, 2024
"Tanganyika-- It means the origin of Life." -Matt Fouts
[working with animals]..."it makes you rmember that life's problems are small." -Lynnlee Schmidt
Being an Entrepreneur is full of challenges. Being a successful Entrepreneur and succesfully transitioning a business and the next Generation grows it exponentially is elite territory.
Matt Fouts has done that with Tanganyika Wildlife Park, advancing the work his Father pioneered fosterring the relationship between humans and animals. The experience at Tanganyika is second to none in the United States. With the unique experiences avaiable to all who visit, they have created "a culture of connecting animals and people together.
Biophilia is the hypothesis that there is an inate desire for humans to connect with nature. The hypothesis is tested and proven true every day at Tanganyika.
As Cheif of Connections, Lynnlee Schmidt feels the power of these conections between humans and nature with every interaction patrons have at Tanganyika. "I saw the impact animals were having on people. I gained a whole new appreciation for what we do."
August 12, 2024
"When we are struggling, that's where discipline comes in for support." -- Carl Bowden
Leadership is profoundly misunderstood. We are each leading in some capacity every day. Do you recognize it and are you taking it seriously?
Carl Bowden tells us that "Leadership is not about us, it is about others."
If we hold ourselves accountable we will serve others and lead in life daily. Carl's calling is to help individuals and organizations find what they need to lead. He has unique ways to connect people, activating them as leaders in their own lives so they can be there for others.
This is what Exemplify is about-- mapping your own leadership adventure.
August 5, 2024
"We bring a national network of Leaders to support Technology ecosystems." -- Julie Huls, Founder Waymaker Group
Hailing from the rural heartlands of Illinois, a farm girl like Julie Huls appreciates the importance of natural systems. While technology has the potential to supplant human efforts, a profound understanding of people is crucial to ensure its effective implementation.
Julie’s prior experience as the CEO of the Austin Technology Council puts her in a very unique position of understanding how technology allows for exponential growth in a very short period of time.
Those who sense that technology is propelling them forward at an uncomfortable pace should connect with Julie. Waymaker boasts an exceptional network of leaders nationwide who are well-equipped to assist industries seeking guidance on integrating technology for improved outcomes.
July 26, 2024
"You operate best when you are operating in your best role."
-Stephanie Wise
Primaries are so important. It is the best time to share your voice and support for the change you wish to see in Government.
Stephabie Wise is running for Sedgwick County Commission.
WiseforSedgwickCounty.com
She is a Business Woman. She is a mother. She is a Leader in her Church and in her community. She has the courage to Lead at a critical time in her life and in our lives.
She has a collaborative appraoch to solving problems and that is our best way to solve problems and move forward.
July 22, 2024
"In order to have Freedom-- Personal Freedom-- you need Financial Freedom." -Michael Raanan, President Landmark Tax Group
Finding out what you are doing wrong is often the best way to get your life moving in the right direction. IRS Agent turned Entrepreneur, Michael Raanan, was intentional about his professional develoment as a young man. He knew he wanted to be an Entrepreneur.
A weakly formulated plan along with action is far better than great plans with no action. Making the investment in yourself early in life is the most important thing to do, however, most of us do not posess the awarness to make that commitment.
Michael went to College, invested in higher education and then took the next 8 years of his life to further his education while getting paid to do so. He went to work for the Internal Revenue Service. He asked a lot of questions. He studied tax laws. He became a professional. We used to call this an Apprenticeship. Entreprenuers often miss this opportunity.
Apprenticeship is "paid training" and it can help you become an expert. As an expert Michael delivers results for people because, as he states "our only existance as an Entrepreneur is to serve the Customer."
July 16, 2024
"We are running for something bigger than ourselves." -Clay Shively
"Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence, talent will not…" It’s also important to be coachable.
Clay Shively discovered running as a freshman in high school. Most elite athletes begin working on their sport early in their life. That is why they excel-- they have thousands of hours of training. Clay Shively had a hidden talent to be an elite runner, and it took coaching and being coachable to reach his elite status. This is an extremely demanding sport. Clay does the work.
In 2023, as a Junior, Shively broke a 58-year-old Kansas indoor mile record held by Jim Ryun. Clay has competed and won races against elite national and college talent while still in high school. And he hasn’t even begun to reach his potential.
Clay will be running for the Lumberjacks at Northern Arizona University (one of the top programs in the country) in the fall of 2024. His principled belief, his discipline, his heart and his joyful attitude make this elite athlete so much fun to know and to cheer for. Coach Randy Mijares is "judicious with athletes" and his leadership paired with Clay's remarkable ability, gives this elite runner the chance to race to the top.
And he is improving every day.
July 8, 2024
"We finally unlocked the potential of the Wichita music ecosystem. People in our community felt support and when they feel supported they grow." - Jessie Hartke
"I've never seen a ball of Energy like that. I just want to thank Wichita" - Chase Koch
"Social Change, you can say it or you can see it in action." - Adam Hartke
The Elsewhere Music Fest exploded in Wichita, Kansas in late June, seemingly out of nowhere. From nowhere, Midtopia co-founders Chase Koch, Adam & Jessie Hartke created Elsewhere. It was a celebration of individual human creativity and potential. With the largest number of local musicians and artists coming together to put on a show for the rest of the world to see, Elsewhere Fest, as Chase put it, "Is not just about the music and the art. It was a Movement. And movements start from the bottom up."
Adam and Jessie Hartke have worked and inspired the music scene in Wichita for nearly 20 years. Elsewhere Fest proves what can happen when you perservere and when you ask others to participate in a great idea.
The music and art inspired change-- a social change that each individual could feel and take action on so that our lives can collaboratively improve. It was a star studded lineup, (Steve Aoki, Lane 8, Killer Mike, Sultan+Shepard, BadBadNotGood, Massane...) and we all felt unified with a freedom to express the best of who we are. And as Killer Mike proclaimed, "This is one of the smartest and most socially conscious festivals I’ve ever been a part of."
This is the power of Elsewhere.
July 1, 2024
"If an adversary gains this type of information, what are they going to do with it?" -Clint Stevens
With over 23 years of dedicated service in military intelligence, Clint offers a wealth of expertise in cybersecurity gained through extensive experience and practical on-the-job training. Emphasizing the power of experiential learning, Clint believes that we learn most effectively by actively engaging in tasks. In the face of unfamiliar challenges or threats, his motto is simple: adapt and overcome.
Knowmadics chose Wichita Kansas, because of our unique capabilities and the resources in our community. Cyber security and cyber threats are not declining. In fact, they are expanding as we continue to rely on space as the next frontier of communication and exchange of information. It brings with it a vast and diverse network of potential threats to National Security, business and culture.
Clint has a logical mindset for tackling cyber security challenges. Logical thinking is valuable when it comes to experimenting and developing effective strategies to combat cyber threats. By leveraging his abilities in his cyber lab, Clint and his Team work to stay ahead of emerging threats, test new security measures, and develop innovative solutions to protect against potential cyber attacks.
June 24, 2024
"I try to have Fun with every. single thing I do." -D'Aydrian Harding
D’Aydrian Harding does have fun in everything he does and it’s on full display in his videos on YouTube. With over 3 million subscribers on the YouTube platform, 10 million subscribers on TikTok and millions more across othe Social Media platforms, he has captured the attention of America. His message, Stay Sober. His merch is incredibly positive and it’s also incredibly popular.
"Stay sober, you idiot" what a great way to get the attention of the youth.
He is incredibly thoughtful. He has high emotional intelligence and he cares deeply about his fans. Make sure you catch him this summer on his Stay Sober Summer Tour all across the United States of America.
Visit adrianharding.com and subscribe
June 17, 2024
"We believe in the power of music to unify people." -- Chase Koch
Elsewhere Music Festival & Conference is here in Wichita, USA.
Entrepreneurs, Artists, the business community and non-profits have collaborated for Social Change through action. Removing barriers for Artists so they can reach their full potential-- this is a festival celebrating the unification of people so we can all work to reach our full potential. Chase and his Co-Founders Adam & Jessie Hartke are intentional about bringing local acts as well as National and International artists for our community to embrace at the Elsewhere Fest.
Visual Artists who have beautified our city with colorful, meaningful murals will contribute to the aesthetic of Elsewhere Fest. In life and in people, when we have an aligned vision we can accomplish beautiful outcomes. Let's experience the Elsewhere Music Festival.
June 7, 2024
"In this community... you really are one phone call away from an opportunity." -Wayne Bell, District Director SBA
Entrepreneurs need to know and understand the resources they have available to them so they can continue to deliver greater value for their customers. The SBA has an enormous amount of resources. When an Institution has so much to offer constituents, it can be overwheling. This is why Wayne Bell and his team at the SBA are so important to know.
Build your team and create a relationship with people. The tools the SBA has need navigating and Wayne has spent the last 16 years helping businesses-- giving them a greater chance to succeed.
I am grateful to know Wayne Bell. His honest and humble Leadership continues to inform business and entrepreneurship in our community.
June 3, 2024
"I have had to get so comfortable with being uncomfortable... keep risking, because its worth it." -- Samantha Lucciarini
When you find what you love, what you are good at and it brings you success, it doesn't mean that you will not face a tough road. This is the journey of the Entrepreneur.
Knocked down? Get up.
Samamtha found her love when she found Real Producers, a real estate magazine that celebrates the best of the industry. And she clebrates them, "loves on them" as she joyfully says. She is at her best when she is doing that.
Its not easy to be successful. It is even harder to stay successful. Staying there is the measure of the human being. Samantha measures up. Knocked down. Got up. And she is better now than ever. That means her Customers, her Clients, her beloved Real Estate community will flourish as she works hard for them every day.
She is a success story and she is going to stay there. Life is "beautiful when your mindset is great."
May 27, 2024
"When you Play, Play for something." - Corey Novascone
Congratulations to Coach Novascone and his boys of Kapaun Mt. Carmel on a 2024 Team State Championship and to Asher Whitaker, 2024 Individual Champion.
Golf is a remarkable game. So many of us play it, or try to, and very few are excellent at it. No one beats it. It is a game of honor, respect and individual accountability. These are principles that allow all of us to Live and Lead in life.
Coach Corey Novascone declares, "Golf has given me everything." And he, in turn, gives back to golf through Coaching and Leadership.
The First Tee program is the definition of Leadership in Life through its programs that offer development to Youth. It is successful. The First Tee has positively affected thousands of kids.
Golf is a great game. Find a way to make it part of your life.
visit: firstteewichita.org & wichita.golf
May 16, 2024
"You gotta take the chance. You cannot sit and aggressively wait for the phone to ring." -Michael Gregory
Mike Gregory will improve your Business. He is a self-proclaimed "data driven" guy. And the real strength in that is his application of the data. He has helped resolve conflict negotiations within large scale Corporations, Start-ups, Family Businesses and the Department of the Treasury. Conflict resolution at any scale is complicated. He helps because he never forgets that we are human beings and we all need to be treated that way. Constantly learning, listening to people and taking action are his best attributes and he can teach us how we can apply them and improve our daily lives.
May 13, 2024
"Mentoring needs to be Revolutionized. The Talents of our Children are going to waste." -Sean Gates/ Founder
The reason we get up every day and [should] work towards a "worthy ideal" is the collisions that can take place with other Human Beings. I am so grateful I collided with Sean Gates. His work daily is towards a "progressive realization of a worthy ideal."
That ideal?-- alerting society that our chilren are not being given the tools to prepare them for thier future and we all need to participate in fixing that.
He calls it the "Child Industry" and Sean doesn't like the business model or the results. So he is doing something about it. The Gates Institute is an Individual approach to child mentoring with Accountability and a focus on Outcomes.
"We live in such a fake world. These children are dying for something Real!" Sean asserts.
I am grateful I met Sean. He shares how he helps and why.
We all have work to do.
May 7, 2024
Being present with people, "I think it's the way that humans are designed to work together." -- Phil Mershon
Phil is back on the ictpodcast.com because Experience is a BIG subject.
Every day is full of experiences. How are we setting ourselves apart and creating and undeniable experience?
April 29, 2024
"We pride ourselves on Customer Service; mindful, strategic and efficient with your time." -Ashley Moore
Ashley gives of herself every day. It benefits all who know her, work with her.. and even those who don't. Entrepreneurs must adapt. And as Ashley says, "my purpose hasn't changed. My job desription has."
The admiration I have for her Leadership is becuase of her willingness to share the tough times along with the success. That is Leadership.
April 22, 2024
"I've learned a lot more from my mistakes than I have from my triumphs." -- John Culver
I have yet to meet a successful Entrepreneur who does not stress Hard Work and the necessity of good People to help you achieve your goals.
John Culver is no acceptation. His professional life and professional success comes from a foundation of Hard Work. Success seems to proliferate when a few more ingredients are added: a Mission Statement, great People and doing what you say you are going to do.
With Integrity you can persist. And John Culver's career speaks to all of these attributes. I am grateful to have this conversation because the formula for success is undeniable and John's story represents this relationship.
April 15, 2024
"I am a Localist. In Sedgwick County we need to sew seeds Relationally. Great leaders cast Vision." --Ryan Baty
Commissioner Ryan Baty is leading through the relationships he is creating. We have a lot of issues to solve in Sedgwick County and in the Greater Wichita area. We can solve those problems through communication and collaboration. Ryan Baty ran on message to make Sedgwick County a safer and more productive place to live and he is doing that by not following the status quo.
Commissioner Baty is giving us all a chance to work together because that is how we solve local problems. And we al need to be Localists. This is our community and we do deserve to make it the best place to live and thrive.
I am grateful for his leadership.
April 8, 2024
Curt Gridley loved being with his family. Curt loved solving problems and helping others solve theirs. And he solved a lot of difficult problems. His methodical approach gave people an insight into his thought process. This allowed others to learn and to be inspired.
Curt you continue to inspire us all. You are missed. Your legacy lives on through the problems you helped us solve. Rest in peace.
April 1, 2024
For over 50 years Rainbows United has supported kids with developmental delays. Families needing support at home or on a Rainbows campus are served by an incredible highly trained staff. South Central Kansas is a better place because of the work Rainbows does for the people of our community.
Michelle Eastman has dedicated nearly 20 years to the advancement of Rainbows United so more services can be provided to families in need of developmental assistance for their kids. I am grateful for the opportunity to share the stories of what they do. This is a group of incredible people coming together every day to make today a great day for the children they serve.
Thank you Rainbows United. And you can thank them too. Participate an any way you can by visiting RainbowsUnited.org
March 27, 2024
"The death of live television has been Falsely predicted for decades..."
-Mike Rajewski, General Manager KAKE
It's been a joy to get to know Mike and see the contribution he has made to Kansas. KAKEland is an important broadcast network in Kansas and the Headquarters received a facelift and significant upgrades to its technology so they can continue to deliver news and entertainment across the state.
Enjoy our conversation about life, our freedoms, opportunities and a little guitar solo from Mr. Rajewski and my, my my it is a beautiful world!
March 19, 2024
"If you haven't walked away different then why did you go?"
-Phil Mershon Director of Experience
When you have a "culture of service" you are focussed on creating the best experience for your Guest (customer, employee, client, patient..) And Phil Mershon is leading in creating transformational experiences.
I think we need to think of the daily work more as an experience that we are creating. Entrepreneurs, Corporate Executives, Leaders-- we are all trying to convey a message and doing that by creating a great experience is a way to deliver Value. Phil writes in his book Unforgettable about this opportunity. We can all deliver better for customers/clients/employees if we concentrate on a quality and memorable experience.
March 11, 2024
"More important than the machine is the machine that builds the machine." -- Renan Devillieres, CEO
Renan is a global Entrepreneur who invests in and co-builds the software stack of the future of operations. They have found great success helping manufacturing firms modernize and create greater value through customized software.
Renan is incredibly thoughtful. "It all starts with a deep desire to change," he demonstrates. His journey to become an entrepreneur is because of his pursuit to find the best solutions. Entrepreneurs are often not satisfied with the way things are so they take action. And this is how the world will be a harmonious place. Take action like Renan to solve a problem for profit. Do not wait, Humanity has the capacity to build a great today and a thriving tomorrow.
March 4, 2024
"We started with a small change... we saved for a decade... we wanted to do something together that fits with who we are."
-- Cody Beard, Prime IV East & West Wichita
An Entrepreneurs' journey takes different paths and there is not a determined timeline. However, Success is undoubtedly through determination to take action.
Lacy and Cody took action and they brought Prime IV Hydration & Wellness to Wichita, KS. With incremental improvement your life will be so much better. And you need to start now.
One of the ways you can improve cognitively and physically is through proper hydration and supplementation. This is what Prime IV is delivering. This is an important piece to improving your life today as you build a strong body and mind for your future self. Visit Prime IV. "You don't know what you are missing until you have it."
February 26, 2024
"With. Take the ACTION with the obstacles." -Robert Feeney
Robert Feeney is using his technology Ringorang to help students become Future Ready.
Ringorang is a technology that is proven to change behaviors and when an individual needs help changing a certain behavior they can do it by engaging in a 1-2 minute daily "game" that begins to direct you to better outcomes.
Robert is committed to making Ringorang the technology that drives future readiness so we can solve the problems an unprepared workforce causes. Rather, our world will be full of individuals seeking solutions and positive outcomes because we are Future Ready.
February 19, 2024
"I asked myself, how can I flip capitalism and our financial system to work for me?"
-Jonathan Roper, Entrepreneur
When you get a chance to hear a Founder/Entrepreneur talk about the process followed to create opportunities, it is a rare moment of transparency. We may hear about the difficulties, hard work and persistence and we will never quite understand that grind.
Jonathan Roper gives us a glimpse into his process from lost and panicked to taking action and creating the life he knew he could for his family and for those he collaborates with as an Entrepreneur.
You can create something that has never been done or you can work at something harder than most but the bottom line is you must create Value. Jonathan thinks about creating Value for Customers, Partners, Employees and the Community with every opportunity he pursues.
February 12, 2024
"When they [endocannabinoid system] line up better, your body is working more efficiently and you feel better."
-Sheldon Coleman, CEO AdvenTrue
In part II of our discussion with Sheldon Coleman we have a refined dialogue around Hemp and the scientific processes that take place at AdvenTrue to create the wellness products they procure. Cannabis is the plant and Hemp is a species of that plant from which a myriad of cannabinoids can be derived.
CBD, CBN,CBG... all of this can be confusing and confusion means people are not engaging with Hemp wellness products that can potentially solve ailments. Sheldon and his team study this plant and through their vigorous research and development AdvenTrue refines natural solutions. With more research, the promise of solutions that meet people's expectations occur. Lives are positively impacted. Let's learn more so we can take action for healthier outcomes.
February 5, 2024
"Learn to not carry the burden of the fear of failure."
-Steven Werner, CEO Lawn Buddy/Blue Ox
It is my experience that entrepreneurs and Founders are slightly different. The difference is in the pursuit. All entrepreneurs have grit and determination. They figure out a way. The Founder pursues the idea, the business like their life depended on it. We can all learn from Founders but there is a good chance we won't all understand Founders. "You have to put yourself in situations to do hard things," Steven extols.
Steven Werner is an entrepreneur. Steven is a Founder and he shares why he has such reverence for this pursuit.
January 29, 2024
"What can we do to remove those barrier? ...to put that money directly in control of the parents."
--James Franko on Education Savings Accounts and school choice.
It is logical that we all learn differently and that means we all need options for learning. When it comes to school and the development of kids it is important to provide meaningful choices for parents to help educate their child. The Kansas Policy Institute has studied this issue and helped create solutions so that more kids have access to learn and develop. Legacy Institutions should be a choice but it cannot be the only choice. That is not logical. Lets give parents and kids more opportunity to learn and the resources they need to do it.
January 22, 2024
"Provision means: For the Vision. If we don't have Vison, how do we expect Provision?"
-Jason Toevs, Entrepreneur
Artificial General Intelligence is the most compelling technology of my lifetime. So why does something with such incredible promise and opportunity scare so many people? ai is both promising and terrifying at the same time because human being have the capacity to do extraordinary things at the same time human being have the capacity to do horrible things. This is the paradox of humanity.
Jason Toevs is the successful Entrepreneur with whom to have this discussion. He has created/Founded/CEOed multiple companies and that is hard to do. It takes incredible discipline and good judgement. Artificial Intelligence has spectacular applications that will advance human potential. The application of it, the vision of it, takes good judgment. The world is full of people with varying degrees of judgement and discipline. ai is amongst us and it is not going back in the bottle. So tell us Jason Toevs, how do we positively transform society using Artificial Intelligence knowing the paradox of being human?
January 15, 2024
Sheldon Coleman is life-long entrepreneur and businessman. The best entrepreneurs pursue ventures that solve problems for people. And they solve problems in areas that they believe in, have a passion for and can track with fervor.
AdvenTrue Wellness is a nature based Hemp company. Sheldon and his team continue to do extensive research and development to create plant-based solutions to improve the quality of your life. They want the public to be well informed so they are constantly communicating details about each product and the science behind the solution. Adventrue has solutions and answers to all of your questions about how these products can make your life better, naturally.
January 8, 2024
"Wait! Wait! This can be different." -- Ashlyn Lindskog, Attorney
"I had to climb workaholic mountain." -- Sam Foreman, Attorney
Sam Foreman and Ashlyn Lindskog take a thoughtful approach to practicing law. "The traditional practice of law can really hurt people," says Sam Foreman. And that is why Sam decided to start his own practice with a different approach for the benefit of his clients and the benefit of the Lawyers he collaborated with. Ashlyn has a similar perspective, that the practice of law squeezes your time and then you have nothing left for your Family, for your own life.
Sam and Ashlyn have a new podcast Breaking the Law and you should listen. These are two very bright legal minds and they are even better human beings. Entrepreneurs must be true to themselves and their mission or they will lose their identity. These entrepreneurial lawyers have created a path to be the best attorney because they focus on being their best selves.
January 2, 2024
"Somebody has to take the risk." -- Ron Cornejo
"We are used to self-performing." -- Marty Cornejo
When Jess Cornejo took the risk to go into business for himself, his wife Josephine broke into tears. Someone has to be willing to take the risk and that does not mean that it is without fear or pain. Often times we just see success and we do not see the pain, the sacrifice, the discipline to press on every day.
Jess had the courage and the determination and he put his name on it. Ron and Marty Cornejo learned the power of hard work from their Father. The Cornejo Family is in the 3rd generation of putting hard work and discipline into action. And they continue to transform Wichita with the projects they do, the people they collaborate with and the opportunities they create.
December 27, 2023
"Engagement. Engagement is about communication. We want to remind our community we are serving them."
- Mayor Lily Wu
All for Wichita is how Lily ran her campaign and all for Wichita is how she is leading Wichita. And all she asks from us is to actively participate so we can all celebrate small wins and big wins together. This is Wichita and we all deserve to "reach our full potential" together.
December 18, 2023
""I feel like we are in the golden age of Aviation... Wichita has some of the brightest minds in Aerospace."
-Ben Sauceda
Aviation and aerospace manufacturing are synonymous with Wichita, KS. The history is barely 100 years and we have gone from wooden propellers to Direct Metal Laser Sintering. And the greatest trajectory is yet to come.
Ben Sauceda leads the Kansas Aviation Museum. His greatest strength is sharing the capacity Wichita and Kansas possess so that we can successfully collaborate with partners around the world. That brings industry, innovation and quality people to our community. Our future is bright because of leaders like Ben.
December 11, 2023
Jennifer has written a follow up to her successful adventure athlete book Go Far. In Go Multisport she is sharing how to make adventure and sport more accessible to all and giving us the inspiration to make it happen.
All of our lives are more fulfilled when we take action. And Jennifer details why taking action is so satisfying. Around each of us is an adventure and when we take the step to engage in the parks, rivers, streams and trails that are all around us-- we unlock more of our human potential and enjoyment in this beautiful life.
Reserve your copy of Go Multisport from penguinrandomhouse.com today. Your life and the life of those around will improve as you exude exercise with your exploration!
December 4, 2023
Angel's genuine curiosity for people, for life is her unique ability. You put that together with hard and you have a person who creates value for others.
When Angel first got into real estate she collaborated with other professionals because [as she state] "I didn't want my client to lose money on a deal because of my inexperience."
That is an abundant mindset.
November 27, 2023
The Mental Health Association of South Central Kansas serves a vital role in our community. MHA is committed to giving a hand up when any of us may need it.
At Christmas time it is better to give than receive-- there is no question about that. Families who do not have resources for basic needs ask MHA for help and MHA asks the community to "Adopt a Bell."
Our friend Eric Litwiller is a tremendous voice for MHA and connecting many of us to this organization so we can help. He shares the story of "the Bell" and is candid about struggles that any of us can and are facing.
Please visit the MHAsck.org website and see how you can make this holiday season better for someone. It is truly better to give than receive.
November 20, 2023
Re-release from our January 2020 conversation
Wichita lost a prolific Leader. Wichita lost a fantastic Friend.
"And if we get up thinking we are entitled, instead of thanking God for the blessings we have...we got up on the wrong side of the bed, I believe."
-Nestor Weigand
From the Book of Proverbs:
Blessed is the man for whom a good family lives, to whom work is a pleasure, by whom his friends are encouraged, with whom others are comfortable, in whom a clear conscience abides.
Rest in Peace Mr. Weigand.
November 13, 2023
"Our culture is this, LOVE, nothing but love."
Chef George Youssef
A first generation Wichitan, a first generation American; George Youssef has his heart in everything he does. People are the most important part of his life and he works every day to be humble and to lead with love. I am grateful for this. I am grateful for his friendship.
November 6, 2023
"Because someone gave me a 'Not Discount Card', I can no longer do the thing that is important, [which is] take care of their health"
-- Dr. Brandon Alleman
Entrepreneurs are like artists; the work they do must have meaning behind it. Dr. Brandon Alleman is dedicated to Direct Primary Care because "when you have physicians running the Practice you have Doctors who can choose to do what is best for their patient."
Molly Breitnebach, CPA was compelled to work in the area of Direct Primary Care because of the results she experienced. There is profound meaning behind her decision to leave traditional accounting and to help people seek the best healthcare solutions. And she did. Candid Health Advisors was created to help people ready for a change from the Insurance model to direct patient/doctor access.
It can be intimidating, even scary to make a change on how your health care is delivered. It intimidates me and I am convinced that this is the best way forward.
Dr. Alleman and Molly Breitenbach are committed to helping you access correctly incentivized health care. That is the job of the entrepreneur-- show you the incentives.
October 30, 2023
"Its a GET UP AND GO kind of book."
Vanessa Whiteside, Author Secret Wichita
Entrepreneurs are created when action is taken on the idea/dream burning inside. Vanessa took action and her Life, her One Delightful Life, is the result. And in her second book, SECRET Wichita, she gives us the knowledge, history and culture that makes up our thriving community.
Vanessa is living a life of purpose and she is fulfilling her curiosity so we can fulfill ours. Visit onedelightfullife.com and engage with her eclectic experiences and to buy her books published by Reedy Press.
October 23, 2023
"I believe that State Capitalism in the short term provides certain advantages because you can mobilize in a concentrated way a lot of resources to reach a specific objective. I believe the future is not State Capitalism or Shareholder [private] Capitalism, the future is what I call Stakeholder Capitalism which is capitalism combined with social responsibility."
-- Klaus Schwab
Klaus Schwab wants the world to participate in solving our problems and he has a few rules to make sure it's done right. And that means the pesky individuals who believe in free association and free markets must set aside those values and get on board with Stakeholders. And since individuals do not understand the importance of the "stakes" Klaus will seek people capable of solving these very technical problems. We will call them Technocrats; George Soros, Bill Gates, John Kerry are a few worthy leaders who are technically proficient in solving all of these problems.
So you should feel a relief. Klaus has the plan and he calls it Stakeholder Capitalism. I used my pocket Thesaurus to find a synonym for his term and Productive Socialism came up! Wow! how silly of us. I read about that throughout history and it never ends well-- millions of people dying through the State, oops I mean Stakeholders...
Anyhooo, they have it figured out now and all it took was rebranding! Stakeholder Capitalism-- This time it's different. Coming to a city near you.