The Ascent Podcast with Joe Burgess

Joel Malick is a financial advisor and co-author of the book Afterwork.   In Joel's professional experience, he found many retirees were ill-prepared to experience a meaningful and satisfying retirement.   In our interview, Joel breaks down what he calls the "retirement lie".   From there, he addresses the paradigm shifts and disciplines involved in making retirement the most rewarding stage of a person's life.  

Tim is the owner of Mucci's Italian and Saint Dinette restaurants, located in St. Paul, MN.    In addition, started a frozen food business about five years ago.    We talk about Tim's roots, growing up in Jamestown, NY.   We learn about his amazing experiences around food while traveling Europe, and the process and passion it takes to run restaurants in a post pandemic era. 

Kristin is an industry leader in financial services.   In her relatively short 12 year career, she has won numerous awards and is regularly asked to give presentations to a national audience.   She also happens to be Joe's business partner at Moxie Wealth Management.  Kristin shares what it was like growing up with modest means.   She also explains how she found a way to finance her own college and developed a passion for helping others learn about money.   We talk about a trip to Europe that she found inspiring, the interesing way she figured out where she wanted to live after college, and what its like to be a strong woman in a male dominated profession.  

Jaime shares how her career path led her from a large fortune 500 company to shift mid-career to build her own firm, Keystone Group International, a business and leadership consulting company.  In this episode, we discuss how leaders can help or hinder the growth of an organization. We also hear about her transformative perspective change as a result of a recent trip to Tanzania.  

Courtney Godfrey is a TV reporter for Minneapolis Fox affiliate KMSP. In 2017, while water skiing with her family, she was involved in a tragic accident resulting in having to amputate part of her leg. We learn how she and her family mentally deal with the loss and how the accident has sparked a better version of herself. We also learn more about Courtney's approach toward chasing success. 

Join us for a chat with Christi Krautbauer, President of Marketing Essentials, a company that specializes in employee incentive and reward packages. Not only is Christi an expert in her field, but she also serves as chair of a nonprofit called Diaper Bank of Minnesota. She has also started personal coaching, team consulting, and speaking engagements focused on women's leadership and effectiveness. Tune in to learn about Christi's passion for human-centered design, her mission to inspire women to close the confidence gap, and her remarkable sacrifice for a close friend.

In this episode, I interviewed two amazing and resilient people, Andrea Wagner and her daughter Megan.  A little over four years ago, when she was eight years old, Megan was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer.   Since then, she's had to become the ultimate fighter, going through two rounds of chemo, and as a result, a heart transplant.   In my interview, we learn about Megan's process for fighting this disease.  In addition, from Andrea, we get a glimpse of the emotional rollercoaster that she, her husband Matt, and their other children Michael and Maddie, have had to endure.    Throughout all of that, Megan and Andrea have now created their own charity in partnership with the University of Minnesota Foundation called Reading4Research.   We learn about how their charity came to be and the impact they are making.    Despite all these trials Megan and her family have endured, this is an inspirational story of hope, with gratitude for all the good things that can come out of a bad situation.  

Chris is the Founder and President of AssetHR, a human resource, payroll, and benefits company.  He hails from New York City.   His first professional career was managing fine dining restaurants in Manhattan.   We learn how he found his way to Minnesota and started a business in an entirely different industry.   Further, Chris tells us about his relationship first mentality and his focus on family.   

Joe explains the history behind Baby Grand, which started with his parents in 1985.   Further, he discusses how he got involved with the business after college, the experience of developing his own store with his wife, and the serendipity involved in merging all their stores into a historic West Side location.   Joe went on to discuss lessons learned as a business owner and how his views on risk have adjusted throughout his on-the-job education. 

Keith and his wife, Tricia, started Bubbly Paws in 2011.   Since that time, they have experienced signicant growth and have begun franchising their business. In this episode, Keith talks about how they transitioned from their prior careers to becoming business owners.  He shares how they position the Bubbly Paws service and experience to be different than other dog washing companies.  In addition, Keith explains what its like working with a spouse and how he and Tricia manage their work/life balance.  

Annamarie's daughter, Eve, was born with a critical congential heart defect (CCHD) that presented no symptoms.   By chance, the doctor screened her while still in the hospital and it ended up saving her life.   That experience inspired Annamarie to create the Newborn Foundation, which focused on making initial CCHD screening (pulse oximetry) a standard of care in the United States.  Further, she developed a medical device company called Bloom Standard that offers ultra sound screening (the second step of confirming CCHD) in remote locations around the globe.   In this episode, Annamarie shares about the life-saving experience with Eve, how that inspired her to change public health policy, and her on-going passion for improving health care for children around the world. 

For almost 30 years, Brian Oake has been a radio host.   Based in Minneapolis, he has become known as a legendary curator for local and national music.   His sweet, deep voice and musings about the evolution of sound and musicians who create them, has guided a generation of listeners.    In this episode, Brian shares how radio and music found him,  the origins of the historic Studio C acoustic performances from Cities97, and some of the personal and professional hurdles he has had to overcome.   You'll be taken by the warm and authentic way he tells his story.  

Howie Zales is an Emmy Award-winning Camera Operator who turned his passion for broadcasting into several entrepreneurial endeavors. He is the founder of HJZ Productions, a multi-million dollar nationwide provider of top talent in the broadcasting field.   In addition, during the pandemic, he pivoted and created a high-quality live-streaming service called Viridity Entertainment Services.  Howie shares how he got into broadcast sports and entertainment production, how video production of a Super Bowl works, and the physical risks associated with running a camera during a live sporting event. 

Jake talks about the origins of "Give to the Max Day" for GiveMN, how RaiseMN eventually developed to support smaller non-profits, and lastly, we learn how the Jewish concept of Tikun Olam shapes Jake's view of public service.  

This is the second part of a two-part episode with Joe Cavanaugh.   On part 1, we explored some of the character and mental health issues that kids are having today and how well-intented parents are often contributing to the problem.  On this episode, we discuss framework that parents can use to help improve the outcomes for their children.   Joe likes to explain his concepts in "3's".  You'll learn the three things that Joe teaches parents to utilize to help kids with their stability and mental health. 

On this episode, we welcome back Joe Cavanaugh to the podcast.   For 35 years, Youth Frontiers has been teaching character to teenage kids.   Over the last handful of years, their programs have expanded to different audiences.   Most recently, they have developed a Parent Academy.   The focus is to give parents the tools to add stability for their children in an increasingly unstable world.  We unpack the character and mental health issues that kids are dealing with today.   Further, we explore how well-intended parents are often contributing to the problem.  

This is one of our most downloaded episodes from a few years ago.   Leah talks about her rapid rise to become a major market news anchor by the age of 27.   As life evolved, she realized she needed to make some major changes, both personally and professionally.    Leah talks about having the courage to change her life path and the freedom and confidence she gained from her decisions. 

David is a visionary and entrepreneurial executive leader who founded waste management companies TUBS and Bagster Dumpster in a Bag.   In addition, with his wife Sara, founded an angel financing network called Gopher Angels.   He shares the origins of his entrepreneurial spirit and how his companies developed and evolved.   It hasn't all been success.  David also reveals what he feels is his biggest weakness when it comes to business. 

This is a replay of one of our most popular episodes.   At the time, Corie was CFO of Best Buy.   She has now moved on to be the CEO.  We learn about her upbringing, being a woman in the business world, and her authentic leadership style.   

In October 2015, Michael suffered a traumatic brain injury falling off his long board.   He learned how vulnerable he was during his recovery process and how much support he needed from others.   It sparked an idea to help homeless youth who have no one to turn to in a time of need. Eventually, Michael and his business partner Sam Harper founded Hippy Feet.   On our podcast, we learn about their mission, the evolution of the evolution of their business model to support that mission, and ultimately their vision to positively affect more homeless youth around the country.

Mark is a pioneer in Minnesota brewing.   Summit Brewing began in 1986 out of St. Paul--well before microbreweries were able to sell their beer from a taproom. As of 2020, they are the 21st largest craft brewery in terms of sales volume in the United States. Mark talks about how he got started, some guerilla marketing he did early on, and the power of relationships and making a difference in your community. 

Henry hosts an evening sports talk show, at WCCO radio in Minneapolis, called Lake Night.  Henry shares how he got started in talk radio, the value of having a voice as an African American in a major market, and his focus on giving back to others. 

Mandi founded her own non-profit, Simon Says Give, at the age of seven.   She shares her inspiration, how it developed, and ulitmately how her organization broke a Guiness World Record.

Steve is finishing up a seven year run hosting Twin Cities Live, a show focused on food, fashion and fun in the Minneapolis St. Paul area.  Steve talks about his serendipitous path to success, including getting really comfortable with the word "no" and believing in what he calls "divine disappointment".    In addition, we hear how his perseverance eventually landed him guest spots on Live with Kelly and Ryan. 

J. explains how his time in the Navy influenced how he leads others. He also shares how he helps Fortune 500 companies with employee retention and engagement. And lastly, we learn the three guiding principles, that he refers to as “buckets”, that he uses to help transform business.

Rob shares how he got started as a development officer, how his team created extra financial support for students during the pandemic, and the fulfillment he feels in helping young men realize their dreams.

Karin tells us about her non-linear career path, important factors for choosing to work in Moscow early in her career, and the fruits of building real and genuine relationships.

Jill talks about the rise in her career from intern to Executive VP, guiding the organization through a pandemic, and some of the initiatives Mall of America is working on with Twin Cities communities.

Matt shares his experiences in working with high net worth to ultra-high net worth families.   He talks about not always having to be the smartest person in the room, and the importance of surrounding yourself with good people.   Ultimately, he describes the character traits that he believes have led to his success. 

We hear about Leah's rapid rise to becoming a major market evening news anchor by the age of 27.   However, as life evolved, she realized she needed to make some major changes--both personally and professionally.   Leah talks about having the courage to change her life path and the freedom and confidence she has gained from her decisions.

Joe's father, Denny Burgess, passed away suddenly in early 2020.  This is part two of a two-part tribute celebrating his life.  You'll hear accounts of Denny's childhood, his prowess as an athlete, his journey building a successful business, and other special stories from family, business associates, and friends.    In this episode, Joe chat's with Belinda Isaacson, the current Executive Director of Denny's business, Our Homes South.  In addition, Joe sits down with his sisters, Teresa Miller-Glover and Erin O'Donnell, to reminisce about life with their dad.  

Joe's father, Denny Burgess, passed away suddenly in early 2020.  This is part one of a two-part tribute celebrating his life.   You'll hear accounts of Denny's childhood, his prowess as an athlete, his journey building a successful business, and other special stories from family, business associates, and friends. In this episode, Joe chat's with Denny's good friend Don Houseman, his sister, Robyn Kruchten, and his brother, Doug Burgess. 

Austin shares the harrowing details of not one, but two plane crashes that resulted in the loss of family members and life-changing physical injuries.   We learn how he navigated those difficult times.   In addition, he hear about his mindset toward tackling challenging situations in life. 

Kris shares the serendipitous start of her business almost 20 years ago.  Starting as a company focused on fitness center design and management, we hear how they expanded their services by incorporating award-winning employee well-being programs. We learn where she went for guidance, what she did for education, and how she and her business partner financed their start-up.  Lastly, we find out Kris' three big things when it comes to running a successful business. 

Todd describes the progression of his career at Cargill; which led up to his role as Executive Vice President and a member of the Corporate Leadership Team.  We hear his views on creating culture at a large organization.  In addition, learn his feelings about ego when it comes to leadership and team selection.  Lastly, Todd shares one of his most effective strategies when leading people. 

Karyn chronicles the evolution of her career, which culminated in her becoming the Chief Executive Officer for a global market research firm.   In addition, she shares some essential business advice, based on the wisdom she has gathered over the years.  She discusses topics such as overcoming the impostor syndrome, the importance of a sponsor, and what factor contributed the most toward her personal success.    

Joe explains some personal stuff that has happened since the last season.   In addition, he gives us a taste of few episodes he has coming up on this season--which is due out April 4th, 2020.   

Kelly shares how her passion for victim rights advocacy evolved into a career as a prosecuting attorney and more recently caused her to get involved in politics.   We hear about the campaign process for a first-time politician (including the experience of campaigning as a woman), what its like when you begin new role, and how she feels she can make her mark during her time in the Minnesota State Legislature. 

Bill talks about developing a passion for road biking in his sixties and how that evolved into two cross country trips--the last one being at age 70.  Further, we learn about his perspective on work and where he derives fulfillment in retirement.  

Jon talks about his evolution in commercial real estate and the establishment of his firm, MedCraft Healtcare Real Estate.  In addition, we learn about the craft brewery industry and Jon's role in founding the Excelsior Brewery.   Jon expands on the importance of people and culture in his organizations, as well as keeping his focus on life balance.

Andrea tells us about changing the culture within Mille Lacs Corporate Ventures.   In addition, she explains the process of creating a national leadership conference, as well as the work she is doing to help empower women. 

JT talks about the process of evolving an exploratory mining/fertilizer company.  In addition, he tells us what he has learned about international business etiquette and customs.  Lastly, he goes into detail about his growth as a leader and his perspective on success. 

Scott's personality shines through as he shares details of becoming a freelance copywriter while maintaining his focus on life balance and travel.  We discuss his work experience and the ever changing advertising space.  In addition, we hear about trips to Everest Base camp, India, and more.    

Joe discusses why he created The Ascent Podcast.  In addition, he recaps highlights from Season 1 and previews a few episodes from Season 2. 

Chris Dardis, VP at Versique Search and Consulting, provides insight into the branding his firm is doing through social media.  In addition, he explains his criteria for meaningful work and how his leadership style has evolved over the years.  

Ed Deutschlander had a short-lived career as a financial advisor.  However, his passion for North Star and the financial services industry carried him to eventually become CEO of the organization.  Listen as he tells the story of his path and provides insight to the wisdom he has learned along the way. 

Ed Driscoll and Jim Williams share the inspirational story of their mastermind group (which they call MAG).   We learn how the group came to be, what they learned, and how it changed the course of their lives over the past 30 years.  

Sue provides an unfiltered account of how she has overcome significant personal and professional setbacks.  In addition, as a business coach, she provides some real life experiences where she has helped her clients deal with communication and leadership issues. 

Amy talks about the inspirational, collaborative work she is doing with Minnesota-based Fortune 500 companies regarding renewable energy and carbon reduction.  We also learn how she uses her personal mission statement prioritization of values to help her navigate major life decisions. 

Greg explains how he got involved in triathlons and his experience representing TEAM USA in the 2017 Sprint World Championships in Rotterdam, Netherlands.   He also provides guidance on finding your passion and changing your mental game when it comes to goal setting. 

Joe describes the origins of his company, Youth Frontiers.  In addition, he explains the some of issues plaguing parents and children today and what his organization is doing to positively influence kids and our communities.