Generation Excellence Podcast

In this episode of GENeration Excellence, we head west to the wide-open spaces of Jackson, Wyoming, where Matt Stirn and his brother represent the fourth generation of family ownership, operation, and stewardship at the R Lazy S Ranch. Matt grew up immersed in ranch life—learning its rhythms, values, and stories around the dinner table and campfire. His grandparents journeyed from Cleveland to the rugged West, and a bold real estate purchase laid the foundation for what would become a beloved dude ranch and family legacy. Today, Matt shares that rich history with guests from the front porch—complete with a clever name he reveals in the episode. But Matt is more than a rancher. He's also a writer, photojournalist, and paleoecologist, bringing a unique perspective to the land he calls home. Where else are you going to hear from someone who blends sporting a cowboy hat with scientific fieldwork? Only here, on this memorable 68th episode of GENeration Excellence.

Mike Wolk grew up around the family business, then known as Goodway Group. He wasn't pushed into the business, nor was he steered away from it. Instead, he forged his own path. In this episode of GENeration EXcellence, we explore Mike's journey into cutting-edge digital marketing, his time working in New York, and the thoughtful way he transitioned to Goodway from The Trade Desk. (Fun fact: Mike's father, David Wolk, was our guest on Episode #2 of the podcast.) During our conversation, I also learned about a new management framework called SBAR—Situation, Background, Analysis, and Recommendation—which Mike uses in his leadership approach. You'll hear about that and much more in this 67th episode of GENeration EXcellence.

Chris Yonker is wildly interesting and deeply interested into how family organizations work and achieve harmony. Chris has been a guest on many podcasts and hosts his own podcast called Secret Thoughts of CEO's. No secret here, Chris addresses how his team helps guide generational organizations through transition with a keen eye and ear to well-being, peace, and joy. I am eager for guest reaction to this 66th episode of GENeration EXcellence with Chris Yonker of The Center for Conscious Living & Fulfillment. Resources Chris Introduced Free Survey on Succession Readiness - https://www.chrisyonker.com/succession-readiness FamBizForum – expert led free webinars on challenges for family businesses - https://forum.chrisyonker.com/next-gen-readiness Podcast Secret Thoughts of CEO's - https://open.spotify.com/show/5rllVRuZKCexjBBLr8ranu?si=4ee51bcb2b0d4c37

Dr. Zachary (Zach) Linhart is a third-generation dentist, continuing a proud family tradition of excellence in dental care. Following in the footsteps of his grandfather, Dr. Ernest Linhart, and his father, Dr. Jan Linhart, Zach has carved out his own niche in the world of cosmetic and restorative dentistry. With a passion for innovation and patient care, Dr. Linhart specializes in advanced implant and cosmetic cases, ensuring his patients receive the highest quality treatment. So, get ready to "sink your teeth" into this episode! As I've had in common with past guests, Dr. Zach is an avid athlete, enjoying sports like squash, skiing, tennis, hockey, and paddle tennis. Join us for episode #65 of GENeration EXcellence as we delve into Dr. Linhart's journey, his insights on the latest advancements in dentistry, and his commitment to creating beautiful, healthy smiles.

In this episode of GENeration EXcellence, we sit down with Alex Saroki, a second-generation partner at Saroki Architecture, the world-class firm his parents founded over 40 years ago in Detroit. Alex shares his journey from schooling to becoming a key player in the family design and architecture business. We explore how he brings process to an art, seamlessly blending classic techniques with modern technology to drive the firm forward. Click to hear Alex's insights on maintaining the legacy while embracing innovation, and how he's excited to help shape and “build” the future of the industry on episode #64 of GENeration EXcellence.

Brian Baum is the president & CEO of Interchange Capital Partners a family business advisory firm in Pittsburgh, PA. Brian is himself the second-generation in a business his father founded and where they work closely together. That means he's seen and addressed firsthand the uniqueness of guiding family business owners and operators on their path to the future. We talked business, we talked family, we talked sports, and we talked about thoughtful disagreement and healthy conflict within family business. (We did ALL that without conflict ourselves.) I trust you will enjoy Brian's wisdom and drive. If this is a good listen while all on a drive, all the better. Wherever and whenever you listen, please enjoy episode #63 of GENeration EXcellence with Brian Baum. Interchange Capital Partners website https://www.interchangecp.com/

Indianapolis is famous for the Indy 500 and cars reaching speeds over 200 mph. Yet the shutter of a camera can race at 1/500th of a second or faster to capture quick-moving action. In this episode I moved quickly to capture the unique generational story of Lesle Lane, CEO of Studio 13 in metro Indianapolis. Lesle comes from a long line of award-winning photographers, each of whom made their mark with their images and vision for the business. Lesle shares her lifelong involvement in the business and is candid about the rational and emotional happenings along the way. Merge into the fast lane for this 62nd episode of GENeration EXcellence with Lesle Lane.

We headed virtually to Boise, Idaho, to chat with Jaime Ekman, President & CEO of The Stoltz Group. Jaime's journey started in the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) world, where she gained invaluable experience in sales, marketing, and operations. In this episode, she shares how she purchased the agency from her father, lessons learned along the way, and her vision for creating even more magic in the future. And yes, for Episode 61 of GENeration EXcellence the guest and host share the same name—but don't let that confuse you. You're in for a treat. Thank you for listening.

We did it—60 episodes of GENeration EXcellence! But this time, the script flips. Instead of hosting, I'm in the hot seat, interviewed by my two daughters, Rebecca and Brooke. They came prepared, firing off alternating questions like a tennis match. Some were gentle lobs; others were well-placed body serves that kept me on my toes. I appreciate your listening to this special milestone episode filled with stories, surprises, and a lot of fun. Please provide your feedback. We are eager to understand how this episode was received. I'll be back in my other seat for Episode #61 real soon.

Scott Brandon, CEO of The Brandon Agency in Charleston, shares a captivating business journey rooted in the early days of Myrtle Beach and pioneering golf marketing—GENeration EXcellence in full swing (pun intended!). A lawyer by training, Scott reveals how the agency's rich history informs its future, blending strategy, technology, and hospitality with a dose of humanity and humility. His storytelling touches on everything from photography to leading a collection of specialist firms, leaving us eager for a part two. Enjoy this insightful conversation with Scott Brandon!

We are thrilled to welcome David Maricich, President and Chief Creative Officer of Maricich Health, to the latest episode of the GENeration EXcellence podcast.

Jodie Kaufman Davis is the Executive Vice President of H.W. Kaufman Group, a global network of companies dedicated to shaping the future of insurance. With a career that spans nearly two decades, Jodie has been instrumental in driving growth and innovation within the organization. Jodie talks about loving to juggle multiple balls including work, family, working out, mentoring the next generation of industry leaders, and championing initiatives that foster diversity and inclusion. In this episode, Jodie shared her insights on the importance of adaptive leadership, and how to cultivate a culture that values relationships while embracing new technologies. Get ready to be inspired by Jodie's story of excellence, her strategic vision for the future, and her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in the business world. Please enjoy this 57th episode of GENeration EXcellence with Jodie Kaufman Davis.

Matt Rossetti is a third-generation architect and President/CEO of Detroit-based Rossetti, an architecture, interior design and urban planning organization that blends the rigor of analytics with the ability to imagine what's never been done before. Matt sat down to talk about his unique path into the business and how Rossetti has evolved as a global leader in the design of sports complexes along with projects that have contributed mightily to Detroit's resurgence. If you like sports, business, art, design ... even oceanography, this episode of GENeration EXcellence with Matt Rossetti is for you and is serious fun. Please enjoy, comment and share.

Andrew (Andy) Goldberg is an experienced attorney and voracious consumer of books and podcasts. Only fitting he joins this podcast to take us through the highlights of his first book, The Big Deal: A Practical Guide to Selling Your Business with Confidence and Clarity. Andy is focused on bringing a well-informed and approachable perspective to this important subject for business owners. One that is especially relevant to leaders of generational businesses. It's no big deal to listen to episode 55 of GENeration EXcellence. Just push play and enjoy!

Emily Korotkin can trace back five generations to founding roots of her family's insurance agency operation. We met at the Korotkin Insurance Group (KIG) offices where the main boardroom has portraits back to 1913. I hope listeners appreciate how Emily gained experience in every aspect of the insurance operation and can bring that first-hand perspective to helping KIG evolve into the ever-changing future. Emily shares timeless and timely thoughts in this our 54th episode of GENeration EXcellence.

Tricia Ruby is president and CEO of Ruby + Associates a renowned steel construction and engineering firm based in the Detroit area. Ruby + Associates is staffed with engineers, designers, and planners who are instrumental in the building of some of the most complex steel structures in North America. Ruby + Associates was founded by Tricia's father and over 40 years grew as a family enterprise based on the classic components of hard work, hustle, experience, and excellence. In our wide-ranging conversation Tricia talks about the Ruby + Associates roots, her unique path into the business, and the moves they've made to set the business up for a long road ahead. Please enjoy our 53rd episode of GENeration EXcellence with Tricia Ruby.

Laurie Mikes (pronounced mike-us) is the Chief Operating Officer of Second Wind, a unique Wyomissing, PA headquartered consultancy serving the marketing communications industry. Second Wind is a distinguished second-generation, family-led organization and SMZ is proud to be associated as a Second Wind member. In this longer-form conversation format, Laurie talks about how Second Wind brings a high-touch attitude to an ever more high-tech world. For 35 years, Second Wind has helped business leaders tap into the power of shared thinking and information. That "collective" power is available here for GENeration EXcellence listeners in this 52nd episode with Laurie Mikes.

Stanley Chen is the CEO of Telamon Corporation in Carmel, Indiana in suburban Indianapolis. Stan (as he prefers to be called) is a leader, a thinker, a father, and a teacher. On this 51st episode of GENeration EXcellence Stan talks about how his father and his mother built what is now one of the largest privately-held businesses in Indiana. As the business has transitioned into the second generation, Stan along with his sister, Stephanie are serving wireless providers, data centers and original equipment manufacturers of the technology that keeps us all connected and “enables life.” I appreciated using technology to connect with Stan and to learn how Telamon embodies a generational family business that can do good by doing well. Thank you for plugging into this episode of GENeration EXcellence.

Edmond Hagopian and I sat down in his company's award-winning Novi, MI showroom and operations center to talk about the founding of Hagopian rug and carpet cleaning services in Detroit. Edmond takes us on a magic carpet ride across the organization's 84 years from its roots in chemistry to post-WW II expansion in retail to multiple growth periods to family fractures all while landing gracefully with innovation that promises a bright future. Listeners will both learn and be entertained by how Edmond weaves (had to do it) his personal history and the business history. Please enjoy this 50th episode of GENeration EXcellence.

Scott Snider is president of the Cleveland based Exit Planning Institute (EPI). EPI regularly counsels generational businesses and in fact they are one as well. Scott works closely with his father as the second generation leader of the Institute's business operations. I was introduced to the Exit Planning Institute via a webinar they conducted to educate family businesses on employee ownership plans. Since then I have been on their email list and radar. In a good way. In our conversation Scott lays out an intriguing concept called the family business blueprint and much more that should prove relevant to listeners of GENeration EXcellence. Enjoy our 49th episode with Scott Snider.

Doug Gray has spent 25 years helping family businesses go and grow as a consultant, most recently for The Family Business Consulting Group. No surprise issues around communication, competition, conflict, chance and 75 other C-words or so can invade the C-suite of family business leaders. Family businesses across industries and around the world turn to Doug for guidance in leadership development, succession planning, and strengthening family unity. If you are in any way connected to a family enterprise, Doug will make you think of things from a fresh perspective. Please enjoy episode #48 of GENeration EXcellence with Doug Gray. Bio: https://www.thefbcg.com/consultants/doug-gray-ph-d/

Dean Friedman whose family was in the steel business became attracted to the advertising world (it is magnetic) at age 14 and never looked back. In fact, in his storied career he regularly looked forward. Dean had an innate understanding of the value of consumer research. From that research he gleaned true insights that inspired many iconic brand campaigns. Dean's first two decades in the business were at W.B. Doner (now Doner and Partners) spanning Detroit to London and a few million miles of travel serving clients. As Doner transitioned into its next generation of leadership, Dean struck out on his own joining Robert Solomon in an agency that was quickly called Solomon, Friedman & Associates (SFA) later rebranding as Real Integrated in the early days of the Internet. Dean talks about pushing and cajoling clients to do bold work that he calls ambitious ideas. I was struck by how Dean's career journey harnessed his own personal ambitions and how he has passed that drive on to his sons and to his successors at the agency. And it all started in the mailroom. Please take a listen to Dean Friedman, a tenacious competitor in all his pursuits on this 47th episode of GENeration EXcellence.

Jim Gatward is someone I was fortunate to meet recently. Trying to talk over loud music at a beautiful wedding in Jamaica, we discovered we were both part of generational businesses back home in Detroit. I learned that starting in the 1950's Jim's father had built a company called LaSalle Electric into a major supplier of electrical and lighting supplies to commercial businesses. As you'll learn in this episode, Jim joined the business with an idea to enter the aircraft lighting market. Yes, the business “took flight” and enabled a “round-the-world journey.” It also “landed” in a different place than moving into a third generation of family ownership. While this episode is longer than usual, it packs into the time what could be an entire semester course in an MBA program. Jim is a wonderful storyteller and humble leader. Please enjoy and learn from this episode of GENeration EXcellence with Jim Gatward. I hope you find it to be as electric I did.

When I first had the idea of doing a podcast about leaders of unique generational family businesses Dan Musser was gracious enough (crazy enough?) to volunteer to be guest #1. That was in late 2018. Just one year later in fall 2019 he and his family made the decision to sell their business, Grand Hotel to KSL Partners/Davidson Hotels. I thought it would be interesting to do a follow-up episode with Dan about life since that significant event. Again, he said yes. In our conversation Dan reflects on the sale of a business, the new ventures he has become involved with and more. Please enjoy this 45th episode of GENeration EXcellence with my friend Dan Musser.

David Techner represents third generation family leadership of The Ira Kaufman Chapel and brings passion and compassion to funeral arrangements, pre-planning, and after-care. David is a past president of the Michigan Funeral Directors Association, he wrote a children's book “A Candle for Grandpa,” and proudly co-produced the Emmy® Award winning documentary “Generation to Generation.” David is leading Kaufman's into the 4th generation and their spirit of innovation, community connection, and commitment to serving people in times of need embodies GENeration EXcellence. To paraphrase SMZ founder Leonard Simons, please enjoy this pre-posthumous episode of the podcast. “Explaining Death to Kids” https://www.irakaufman.com/explaining-death-to-kids.html

Laura Ries is a marketing strategist, bestselling author and media personality. In 1994, she founded Ries & Ries, a consulting firm with her father and partner Al Ries, the legendary positioning pioneer. I was fortunate to get this sought-after-speaker to speak with me about building a global, generational business. It's clear that Laura lives by the fundamental and immutable laws of branding that she and her father have taught around the world. Gather ‘round and enjoy this episode of GENeration EXcellence with Laura Ries. Ries & Ries: https://www.ries.com/ Laura's Books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Laura-Ries/e/B001IGLSWY/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_2

Jason Eddleston is the second-generation leader of Sterling Oil and Sterling Services located in Hamtramck near Detroit. Jason has humbly evolved a unique lubricant and petrochemical business started by his parents in the 1970's into a diversified, international operation today. Leading a growing business, you'll learn how Jason is deeply committed to serving multiple communities, celebrating art and artists, and somehow squeezing in becoming the newest owner of a beloved ice-cream shop. This episode wasn't sterling ... it was gold. I trust you will learn from and enjoy this episode of GENeration EXcellence with Jason Eddleston.

Ellie Frey Zagel is a leadership coach specializing in multi-generational family businesses. She helps next generation leaders thrive in times of uncertainty and crisis. Ellie's coaching includes management of time and stress. In fact, she provided a Six Step approach right in our conversation. We also talked about “The Ideal Week” and Ellie's unique journey to now as she did something for herself that led to her doing so much for others. Please breathe in and take in this episode of GENeration EXcellence with Ellie Frey Zagel.

It began with his father's enchantment with Japan and Japanese art. Today, David Libertson leads NYC's Ronin Gallery into its second generation, curating major exhibits and reimaging the gallery's digital presence as it showcases these fascinating art forms.

Jody Lipton of Lipton Law leads, along with her brother Marc a personal injury law firm started by their father William Lipton in suburban Detroit. Jody has an incredible way of tackling what's in front of her and dropping the baggage of the past. She refers to it as “Over. Done with Gone.” Learn more about that philosophy of management and leadership along with how Jody has embraced the law, her clients and a unique team approach to this second-generation law firm. I greatly respect Jody's fight and fire. Get ready for a taste of law school on this episode of GENeration EXcellence.

Brian Yessian, Partner & Chief Creative Officer of Yessian Music leads, along with his brother Michael a business started by their father Dan in suburban Detroit. Today's Yessian is doing music and sound design work in advertising, film, gaming, and attractions ... all over the world. In our conversation we get into the founding of the business and how it has so smartly “traveled” to NY, LA and Hamburg. I love Brian's passion mixed with a quiet intensity and really had a good time doing this episode of GENeration EXcellence. Please enjoy!

Marc Schechter's entrepreneurial talents have led him to become CEO of a third generation firm that advises clients around the country on financial matters including investment advisory services, life insurance planning, income and estate taxes, business succession, and charitable planning. Marc started, built and grew numerous businesses after college. You'll hear about one venture that didn't quite pan out and that led him to join his family's business, Schechter Wealth. I really enjoyed this conversation with Marc as he outlines the evolution of his firm and humbly explains the moves they've made that have led to profitable growth. The information Marc imparts (especially around their core values) is applicable on so many levels. Please enjoy this episode of GENeration EXcellence.

Michael Simmons of Simmons & Clark Jewelers added some sparkle and bling to the podcast. As a third-generation owner, operator and an attorney Michael brings a refreshing perspective to GENeration EXcellence. This is a special episode in that our agency, when known as Simons-Michelson Co. did advertising work for Simmons & Clark Jewelers. Some of that work from over 60 years ago graces the store today. So much has changed in the world of omni-channel retail. Michael proudly and humbly shares how his family has navigated that change and are prepared to keep evolving Simmons & Clark Jewelers into the 4th generation. Thanks for taking a little (Bulova) time to listen to Episode #36 of GENeration EXcellence.

Joe Kinville of Guernsey Farms Dairy joins the podcast to outline how a third-generation business doesn't automatically mean maturing or declining. Guernsey is growing by investing in facilities, logistics, and people. In that way their high-quality premium dairy products (e.g. killer coffee ice cream) can be enjoyed by more families. And you can enjoy learning about how a legacy business celebrates it is roots (and rocks) while preparing for the 4th generation. Hint: there are NO shortcuts. It takes a positive attitude and effort.

John Carter is an attorney and experienced M&A advisor. He turned to counseling businesses on succession so that they avoid the drama that is the hit show “Succession” on HBO. He named his firm Absolute Succession. It was an absolute pleasure to speak with John Carter on this episode of GENeration EXcellence. John explains how leaving a business via a sale, transfer, gift or any form of exit is a process, not an event and requires planning. I appreciate business owner/operators taking the time to prepare their business and prepare their teams through the objective guidance of John Carter. Please enjoy.

While skimming through the Food & Wine best ice cream in every state story online I reached out to the winner for Pennsylvania, Bassetts Ice Cream in Philadelphia. Why for this podcast? Because Bassetts has been the best ice cream since ... 1861. In this episode we get “the scoop” on this fascinating business story from Alex Bassett Strange, who represents the 6th generation of his family at Bassetts Ice Cream. Alex proudly and knowledgably walks us through the mark each generation has made (or is making) on the product, manufacturing, operations, packaging, and more. Bassetts Ice Cream talks about being “rich in history, richer in flavor.” Enjoy a taste on this episode of GENeration EXcellence.

I received a store grand opening postcard from Premier Pet Supply. (Yes, snail mail got my attention.) I was intrigued and came to learn that Mike Palmer represented the second generation of this fast-growing pet supply store operator. In this episode Mike talks about his involvement in the business from a young age and how he remains as fired up about the opportunity as when he was a teenager. Premier Pet Supply is billed as “the place pets love.” I think you'll love how Mike Palmer leads a family-run business to outrageous customer service excellence on this episode of GENeration EXcellence.

Episode #31: Stephanie Stuckey, President and CEO, Stuckey’s Corporation by Jamie Michelson

Ron Chapman II is the Chairperson, White Collar Defense & Government Investigations Practice at Chapman Law Group. Chapman Law Group is a firm solely dedicated to representing licensed healthcare providers. I got to know Ron as we were regular early morning gym goers. I’ve since come to learn about Ron’s unique career path and inspiring leadership principles. This is one of my favorite episodes so far. (I say that often.) Get ready for some surprises and fresh takes from attorney Ron Chapman II in this episode of GENeration EXcellence.

I recognize there’s great admiration for founder/entrepreneurs. Silicon Valley lauds those individuals. I would argue stepping into a very successful family business, earning respect when your name is on the door (and 100’s of trucks), and managing a legacy business through times that threaten the organization’s very existence – that takes a special skill set too! Steve Don has humbly done that and more as Chicago-based Edward Don & Co. forges into their 100th year in business. Don is a leading distributor of foodservice equipment and supplies across the U.S. My conversation with Steve spans the generations of the company, goes big picture, recognizes the critical importance of serving the customer all while never losing sight of attention to detail. Please “eat up” this 29th episode of GENeration EXcellence with my good friend Steve Don.

What are the challenges for someone becoming the CEO of a large family-owned business while representing the fourth generation? For answers I turned to Andrew “Bubba” Berenzweig a business leader and change-maker at Hylant, one of the nation’s largest insurance brokers. Berenzweig explains how Hylant is celebrating their 85th year of operations while recognizing the need to commit to significantly different ways of working in the future. He refers to it as, “breaking barriers and borders.” I’m a big hockey fan and Bubba is a former NHL’er. Surprisingly we spent little time talking hockey while enjoying a lengthy time talking business. Please hop over the boards and take in Bubba Berenzweig’s insightful business lessons in this 28th episode of GENeration EXcellence.

The newest GENeration EXcellence episode, #27, spins the 107-year-old tale about the Becharas Brothers Coffee Co. family business. Nick and Dean represent the third generation running the operation and tell us their story - with humility and humor. So, grab a steaming cup and take a listen. Hopefully your coffee is smooth. But it’s worth remembering the reality: the journey isn’t always smooth for long-running businesses.

Mike Hart is the second generation leader of Hart, Inc. a full-service advertising agency with offices in Toledo and Columbus, Ohio. I first met Mike in his original Toledo offices and we exchanged stories about working for our fathers and all of the other unique individuals that one faces in advertising. Mike provides a great perspective on the highs and lows of business. His advice to his two children as they entered the workforce is priceless. (Well actually it’s free.) This is one of my favorite episodes so far. Please enjoy Mike Hart’s family business story in this episode of GENeration EXcellence.

Sanya Weston is an engineer entrepreneur who comes from a family with a legacy of being leaders and innovators in the travel industry. Hear how her family organization dealt with 9/11, the ongoing COVID pandemic and other challenges; never wavering from helping clients with their business and leisure travel plans. Learn about a non-profit Sanya recently formed to provide African-American students an opportunity to travel the world. If you’re in need of a vacation (who doesn’t right now?) please enjoy Sanya’s family business journey in this episode of GENeration EXcellence.

Steven Goodman is a CPA, a banker, a business-owner and a published author. Put all that together and you have someone who has been in the room for difficult and seminal conversations around business continuity and succession. Steven’s book is titled Business Succession Planning, and he is passionate about the importance of planning for generational family businesses. Listen as Steven shares some real-world examples. Certainly appropriate subject matter for this year-end episode of GENeration EXcellence.

Shane Pliska serves as president of Planterra, a business his parents formed over 45 years ago. Learn about how flying ficus trees ignited a unique business spanning the design and installation of plantscapes to beautiful weddings in a glass conservatory. Business insight, art, culture, creativity and of course “growth” are part of the generational Planterra story. Please use your green thumb and push play on this enjoyable episode of GENeration EXcellence.

Joshua Bernard is a super hard-working commercial mortgage banker at Bernard Financial Group, a firm his father started 30 years ago. Josh introduces an intriguing concept - taking a mousetrap and “second generationizing” it. (Find that idea anywhere else!) A student of the business, Joshua is honest in his appraisal of interacting with clients, colleagues and family. Joshua also enjoys cooking, skiing, playing piano and reading. His passionate interests come thorough in this conversation. Regardless of where you are in your career listeners will find relevant insights in this episode of GENeration EXcellence.

Heidi Harlan outlines how her family built a business that helps teachers gather and organize the materials they need to make science lessons fun and engaging for students. Heidi explains how she brings her Hollywood experience to the next generation of a business that has roots in entertainment, but is focused on revolutionizing science education in the U.S. Put on your lab coat and safety googles and take a listen ...

Elliot and Noah Lewkow of The Cappuccino Man Grab a cappuccino (or your favorite beverage) and join me for the legend of The Cappuccino Man through the stories of founder Elliot Lewkow and his son Noah. Find out how selling a piece of equipment spawned a network of “coffeehouses on wheels” in Michigan and Southern California. This family business communicates and operates in a manner as fresh as their coffee beans. And provides timeless instruction around delivering an exceptional customer experience with flexibility and ingenuity. Please enjoy.

Jim Michelson is the chairman of SMZ and celebrates 56 years in the advertising business. He’s also my father and that makes this a unique conversation. If you’re interested in a real connection to the actual Mad Men era of the business, Jim shows who’s the best storyteller in the family... by a mile. While technology has changed our business (and almost every other) the principles Jim reminds us about remain timeless. I hope you walk away from this episode with a better sense of why and how SMZ has quietly been making noise for generations.

Christopher Klebba grew up in and around the family business. From a single gym to many Planet Fitness locations in the U.S. and Canada, Chris (father) and Christopher have built a family enterprise that now includes Smoothie King franchises, a unique bar/restaurant called Single Barrel Social and additional ideas in the hopper. Christopher is a student and teacher of leadership lessons and we’re lucky to get to learn from his experiences on this newest episode of GENeration EXcellence. Fire it up on your next workout...