Beyond The Known

Nick Starr Director of Agency Advancement and Commercial Insurance Architect at The Starr Group is on hand for the 1 year anniversary of Beyond the Known. Nick reminisces about growing up in the halls of The Starr Group building, talks around the Starr family dinner table, and his prognosis on the future of the agency.

 Ron Chandler of Summit Investment Management talks about how various industries lead him to his career in personal finances. He'll share his perspective on helping clients focus on individual planning, and providing guidance to restore order and establish a pathway for managing their specific quality of life issues.

Podcast guest Nick Miota, President of Southgate Lease Service will be on hand to talk about the winding career path that lead him back to the family business. He'll share how personal tragedy gave him the courage to take a leap of faith. And Nick's words of advice to his “younger self” may prove helpful for current career-minded college students.

Our guest Blaire Busack, is Principal at Institute of Technology and Academics in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Growing up in a very small town taught her the importance and value of building strong relationships. Coming to the “big city” she realized what fundamentals the families in the urban schools and communities were lacking. Go deep to the root of the issue!

Our guest Sr. Edna Lonergan, is a nurse, occupational and massage therapist as well as a gerontologist at St. Ann Center for Intergenerational Care in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Sr.Edna is a member of The Sisters of St. Francis. She'll tell us how a bit of Irish Luck–and plenty of God's Grace–led her to her ministry of caring for those with dementia, as well as children, frail enders and adults of all ages with a variety of disabilities.

Risk Management Consultant in Personal Insurance with The Starr Group talks about what and who influenced his journey into the industry. He'll share why helping people is at the core of his professional goals. Josh reveals how being authentic is the key to success, and how that is rooted in his Faith in God.

Our guest Ashley Johnson, Group Benefits Consultant at The Starr Group discusses why pushing the “Easy Button” in life is the absolute worst thing you can possibly do. She'll tell us the virtues of being a “forever student” and why being one will get you further faster. Ashley will also reveal how being a competitive bodybuilder has enriched her life in ways above and beyond the physical. She'll share why you need to constantly challenge yourself as well.

Our guest Tom Pipines, podcaster and retired Sports Anchor of WITI-TV, Fox6 Milwaukee talks about his current podcast project, his past career successes, and working with non-profits. Tom also shares his Catholic journey to Heart of the Nation. Connect with us: https://www.starrgroup.com/ (www.starrgroup.com)

 Our guest is David Bellman president of https://belmanhomes.com/ (Bellman Homes). David shares the seven words that will change your life: “You've got to think about your legacy.” He tells his story of the incredible impact his parents had on him growing up and shaping the person he became later. Advice every parent NOW should be aware of. This business owner, philanthropist, entrepreneur, best-selling author, and family man the will reveal the ultimate secret to success.

Our podcast guest Richie Burke, of the GoGedders Marketing and Media will share insights on… What else? niche marketing for Businesses! He'll discuss the adventures that lead him to start his own agency and the common misconceptions people have about being an entrepreneur. He'll also share his advice on podcasting!

Our guest Alicia Kelch, CEO and Founder of REM Occupational Health & Wellness will be on hand to share the progression of her career from working in emergency medicine to occupational health. She's worked extensively with over 40 companies in various industries from manufacturing and foundries to food and agriculture.

Timothy Nikolai, Sr. Community Impact Director at the American Heart Association will be on hand to discuss what fund raising initiatives are happening during the pandemic and how those funds are being used to advance Heart Health Awareness during the Month of February as well as research all year long.

Our guest Eric Messer, Business and Risk Consultant at The Starr Group. During our conversation, Eric is going to discuss what we can learn from professionals in the construction industry. He'll talk about how the new Biden Administration will impact construction in 2021 and beyond. And despite being in insurance, Eric doesn't want to be known as an “insurance guy”. Don't miss this delightful conversation!

Our guest Dr. Sylvestra Ramirez owner and director of Physical Therapy of Milwaukee discusses how a dislocated patella played a role in her journey into medicine; how community influenced her decision to start her own practice, and the challenges/opportunities of a Hispanic Business Woman. She'll demonstrate that physical therapy isn't only for treating injuries, but can also be beneficial in maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle.

Our guest Colleen O'Hara, Executive Vice President of Marketing and Communications with Acrisure – insurance agency partnerships. During our conversation, Colleen will share what business owners and marketing professionals need to do to take your organization's marketing efforts to the next level. She reveals the biggest marketing opportunities that are going to present themselves in 2021 of which you'll want to take advantage. And she'll offer insight as to why fear can be one of the greatest assets in your life. Don't miss this illuminating conversation.

Guest Carmen Pitre, President and CEO of Sojourner Family Peace Center — Milwaukee's shelter for domestic violence survivors — joins us for a slightly different conversation than you're used to at Beyond The Known, but it is an important conversation nonetheless. During this dialogue, Carmen discusses the worrying statistics of domestic violence during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how to recognize the warning signs among your friends and neighbors. She'll offer guidance on what you can do if you suspect someone in your life is a victim of domestic violence. Carmen also provides ways employers can keep their employees safe from domestic violence in the workplace as well as at home. Do not miss this eye-opening conversation.

Our guest, DR Salerno, owner and CEO of Amada Senior Care of Greater Milwaukee talks about why all business people should have a mentor and why your growth is being stunted if you don't have one. He'll address the number one trait a successful entrepreneur needs to have, and this will change your life. Finally, for the investors out there, DR will discuss the virtues of a recession-proof, pandemic-proof business venture. You're not going to want to miss this illuminating exchange.

On this episode, our guests Brian Magliocco and John Schlosser of Captivate Exhibits discuss how to pivot during a period of disruption — possibly reinventing yourself if necessary — for ultimate success. The pair will give testimony thy people in the workforce should treat their profession as their ministry. And they'll focus on some of the biggest mistakes companies make when it comes to trade shows. Believe me, these tips will make and/or save your budget! You will not want to miss this “captivating” conversation.

As 2020 comes to a close, we'd like to thank all our guests from our inaugural PODCAST season. From uplifting stories of career success to exciting tales of death defying daring. Each and every one of you took us beyond what we know about business. And to our listeners, without you, our podcast would simply not be possible. We're grateful to be part of the start of your work week every Monday. Sharing our show links with others is a sure sign of approval. Please continue sending your topic and speaker suggestions to marketing at Star group that's Starr group.com. And so, from the star group PODCAST production team, Happy Holidays. See you in 2021!

President and COO of RSPR Marketing and Communications will talk about the keys to putting on a world class event; why the COVID pandemic is an excellent time to aggressively market your company; and how specifically to elevate your marketing on a shoestring budget. Don't miss Patty's words of wisdom.

. Our guest is Elzie Flenard, the Mayor of Podcast Town and technical producer of Beyond The Known. During our conversation, Elzie will discuss why all businesses should have a podcast and how to differentiate yours, common misconceptions people have and missteps made when starting a podcast. Finally, find out the meaning behind Elzie's advice about failure: “fail small and fail fast”. You will not want to miss this enlightening conversation.

Our guest, Ryan Campbell, CEO of Ryan Campbell Speaks shares the story of his death-defying, world record-setting, circumnavigation solo flight. No matter what adversity you face, life is won or lost above the shoulders. Find out how 3 words can change your life: Sink or Swim. Do not miss this amazing conversation.

REIMAGINING THE WORLD, TOGETHER. Allen Ruppel, founder of Unity in Motion will be talking about what life on a submarine was like and the lessons learned for his ongoing professional success; his love of nonprofits — including the one he started Unity in Motion; plus, a school that he founded in Pakistan; and why everybody should dabble in and cut out a at least some time in their life to reimagine their community, their world through serving others. Don't miss this inspiring conversation.

REFRESHING PERSPECTIVES. Our guest Jim McCabe, Founder of Milwaukee Brewing Company talks about the changing beer culture in Milwaukee, important lessons on how to scale a business, and how to be resilient and adaptable when life throws challenges your way.

PIVOTING FOR LEADERSHIP SUCCESS. Our guest Kyle Stephens, Vice President of Finance and Administration at Good City Brewing will discuss the importance of having a good pivot foot for leadership success, lessons learned from the COVID-19 disruption, and how community service is not only good in personal practice, but why it's good for your business, too. You will not want to miss this enlightening conversation.

LEADING EMPLOYEES ACROSS MULTIPLE GENERATIONS. Our guest Paul Schultz, President and CEO of Max Weiss Company during our time together. Paul is going to talk about the importance of perspective for business leaders, the virtues of leading a family owned business and innovative ways to bring value to your employees and retain your top talent. You will not want to miss this enlightening conversation.

During our conversation with our guest Hector Colon, President and CEO of Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and upper Michigan, we touch on a variety of topics, including why being a good leader involves getting into public service; why Hector turned away from an Olympic boxing career that could have earned him millions of dollars; And the five virtues that have guided his life, and could also serve as a template for listeners as well.

MRA — The Management Association — is one of the largest employer associations in the country, serving more than 4,000 employers each year with more than one million employees. Susan Fronk, President and CEO, will be talking about a number of things, including how to get the most out of your HR department, the traits of a good leader especially during a crisis, and the best practices that you can employ to attract top talent. You will not want to miss this insightful conversation.

AVOIDING A BAD HIRE. During our conversation with Joe Korb co-owner of CCA technology, Joe will be sharing with us his thoughts on the future of technology, what makes a good successful business partnership and one of the biggest mistakes companies are making when they're hiring salespeople — and how to avoid it. You'll want to listen to this enlightening conversation.

David Cooks is speaker and author with David Cooks Enterprises. During our conversation, he's going to give us practical advice on how you can find your purpose in life, ways you can learn to overcome adversity, and how making time to reflect can literally make the difference between realizing your true potential and not. You won't want to miss this insightful and inspirational conversation.

Chris Wise is the local managing chair of the C12 Group — a business peer advisory group made up of Christian CEOs and Business owners who want a bigger, better future and want to integrate their faith in the process. Chris will share tips on how to overcome your fears in life, the importance of a peer-to-peer support system, and how to get the most out of your team as a leader. You will not want to miss this enlightening conversation.

Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Daniel Kelly is our guest on Beyond The Known. He'll be talking about his passion for Justice and the rule of law. He's going to share what it's like to serve on the highest court in the state the merits of public Service, as well as leadership lessons from the campaign trail. You will not want to miss this conversation!

OVERCOMING OBSTACLES.  Overcoming the self-consciousness of a reading/writing disorder is what launched Amelia Forczak the founder of Pithy Wordsmithery into the world of the published word. Now she uses her knowledge to help others tell their stories and get them published and marketed. She'll share what lead her to ghostwrite a New York Times best-seller, as well as a few tips other entrepreneurs can use!

As Executive Director of Bizstarts — a non-profit that helps companies get started in Milwaukee free of charge — Patrick Snyder has tremendous experience running social and for-profit ventures. His largest wins are in the area of organizational GROWTH. Patrick will share his insights on the importance of coaching, mentoring and connecting to resources.

Faith, Family and Women in Business Entrepreneur Kimberly Krueger has overcome some of life's toughest struggles with beauty, dignity, and grace; her eyes looking up and never looking back. she founded The Fellowship of Extraordinary Women (FEW), a network for women whose passions are faith, family and business. offer women of faith monthly women's forums, special events, publishing, leadership training and coaching certification. Kimberly co-hosts Coffee with Kim podcast with her best friend, Heather Taylor who makes her laugh and keeps her real while they share this platform with women with extraordinary stories that bring glory to God. This will be one inspirational and uplifting episode.

In her role as President at the National Christian Foundation, Linda Maris is called to inspire generosity among fellow Christians. In this episode Linda will discuss the importance of Self-Assessments and philanthropy via generous living. She will also tell us why everyone should make a local, national or international mission trip at least once in their lives.

As President and CEO of HPS (Health Payment Systems), Terry Rowinski will offer lessons in leadership including why it's important to provide consistent, relatable leadership that engages, inspires and encourages growth within all levels of the organization. His People-centric approach consistently yields positive bottom-line results by influencing hard-to-control costs such as turnover and productivity. Terry will also tell us why it's OK to wear your Faith on your sleeve at the office.

As CEO and Chief of Culture of Titus Talent Strategies, Jonathan Reynolds is energized by inspiring company leaders and equipping them with unique approaches to better understand their people and create optimum performance among their team members. Jonathan currently leads a unique, fast­ growing team of talent consultants located across the United States. Business Leaders will want to take notes during this episode!

Take control of your healthcare costs by taking control of your culture! The future of Group Benefits is constantly shifting. Certified Underwriter Greg L. Bass is the Chief Strategy Officer – Group Benefits at The Starr Group. He will explain how the current state of employee healthcare evolved. Greg will expound on the solutions set before employers that are both efficient and affordable. Business owners and CEOs will learn WHY they need to control their company's wellness culture.

UNLEASH YOUR FULL POTENTIAL Business Owner Andy Weins has built a reputation through his no-holds-barred teaching style, which inspires immediate and transformational action. No Frills, no fluff. Andy's business, Green Up Solutions, has grown from a two-man backyard operation to a nationally renowned multi-faceted enterprise in rapid pace. A proud US Army Veteran, military career counselor, and Master Resiliency Trainer, he has helped thousands of leaders and entrepreneurs unleash their full potential and achieve unparalleled success.

For over 2 decades, Pat Miller‘s favorite part of strategizing and positioning events with radio stations and digital brands like WTMJ and WKTI in Milwaukee has been bringing big ideas to life. Through Idea Coach, Pat helps small businesses find clear and competitive advantages to grow through understanding their audience, authentically connecting with them, and getting the attention needed to drive sales. This episode is sure to create an “Aha!” moment for business owners listening in.

Starting a company and building a brand are two very different activities, however, they go hand-in-hand to creating a successful business. Paige Weslaski of Image Management shares what inspires her to impart her knowledge of social media marketing and provides tips for corporate branding. Recorded remotely during the COVID-19 quarantine, Paige stresses customer perception of your business and the importance of public awareness.

Running a business is both rewarding and risky. Paul Kraemer, Vice President of Commercial Sales for The Starr Group, opens the door to MORE reward and LESS risk for employers — and employees — with this conversation about group Captive programs. In the field for more than 3 decades, Paul will share how he was invited into the insurance industry by founder of the agency, Robert Starr. This is a educational and entertaining episode!

Volatile social climate fills the media today, yet in the background a great deal of good continues throughout our community. Brian Sonderman Executive Director of  Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity discusses how the HFH is bringing people together to build homes, community and hope. A life-long Milwaukee-area resident, Brian shares his journey to HFH and his family's “hands on” level participation. This episode is certainly a beacon of light!

Marco Briceno — Personal Risk Consultant for The Starr Group — will talk about the often overlooked details of business and homeowners' insurance policies that can save — or sink — a person's professional and personal assets. Marco shares his own journey into the world of Personal Insurance, and introduces “White Glove”, The Starr Group's newsletter for High Value Homes.

The COVID-19 Lockdown had many people are yearning for more living space. Home buying/selling has picked up as more people are searching for stand alone dwellings with yards for gardening and relaxing. Tony and Charisse Giangreco of Mindright Realty will be sharing how they help their customers find the right home for them… as well as a few charming stories about their partnership!

Ever wonder about the blooming hospitality scene in Downtown Milwaukee? Sam Emery of  Merriment Social will talk about his journey into restaurant entrepreneurship and the growing business opportunities in our beloved city! This is a mouth-watering conversation!

The nuances of Occupational/Workplace Safety shift as technology advances or personnel changes. Who's training the new hires on proper procedures? What kind of records are being kept? Ron Humphreys, owner of Employee Risk Management Specialists — and exclusive Consultant for The Starr Group — will talk about these things and more to ensure Safety is paramount in your organization. Ron talks about the safety manual he authored … as well as the novel he penned on the side!

Brad Zepecki joins us to discuss technology in Milwaukee and his passion for “Code The Way” which partners with high schools and technology companies to offer students advanced computer science training and real-world job experiences working on projects that benefit local nonprofits and increases certified computer science teachers, contributing to the computer science talent base. You do not want to miss this episode!

How soon is too soon to talk to your kids about money? Melinda Wilke, Wealth Management Advisor for Wilke Wealth & Investment Planning gives great insights to college planning as well as practical steps to retirement planning.

Jessica Ollenburg joins us this week to discuss successful Risk Reduction strategies to improve your workforce and your bottom line. She will share examples of how to avoid making common hiring mistakes.