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4 episodes with kohler company
4 episodes with kohler company
When economic uncertainty looms, most businesses make the critical mistake of slashing their marketing budgets first. But what if that's exactly the wrong move? In this illuminating episode, Jason shares battle-tested strategies to keep your design business visible and thriving during economic downturns—without breaking the bank.Drawing from his wealth of marketing expertise, Jason walks through practical, low-cost approaches that design professionals can implement immediately. From website optimization and Google Business Profile maintenance to email list segmentation and automated follow-up systems, these strategies require minimal financial investment while delivering maximum impact. The common thread? Strategic thinking and consistent effort outweigh throwing money at marketing problems.The episode takes a fascinating turn when Miriam shares insights from her time at Kohler Company, revealing how their visionary leader Herbert Kohler Sr. approached recessions differently. While competitors retreated from trade shows and advertising, Kohler maintained visibility—allowing them to capture market share while others disappeared from consumers' consciousness. This real-world example powerfully illustrates why maintaining your marketing presence when others pull back might be your most strategic business move.Whether you're feeling the economic pinch now or simply want to prepare your design business for future uncertainty, this episode provides a clear roadmap for recession-proofing your marketing. Ready to implement these strategies and potentially emerge stronger while competitors struggle? Subscribe to Designer Discussions for more insights that help your design business thrive in any economic climate.If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-143-How-to-Recession-Proof-your-Marketing-PlanTransform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academyDesigner Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses. Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store. Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY
Send us a Text Message.On this episode of The Ordinary Extraordinary Cemetery, Jennie and Dianne pay a virtual visit to the graveside of a man who truly made a "splash" not only in America, but around the world. Join them as they relatethe fascinating story of John Michael Kohler, the man credited as the inventor of the modern bathtub. From his humble beginnings as a young farm child in Austria to his journey as an immigrant in America, Kohler's life was a true rags-to-riches tale. Join us as we explore his rise to success in building the Kohler business in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, his charitable works, and his involvement with the Masons and Odd Fellows. Plus, discover how he made a splash in local politics as the mayor of Sheboygan in 1892! It's an ordinary life turned extraordinary!Learn more about the Kohler company here: https://www.kohlercompany.com/Learn about the John Michael Kohler Arts Center here: https://www.jmkac.org/Photo Credits:John Michael Kohler: Public DomainPhoto of portrait of Elizabeth "Lillie" Vollrath Kohler: Debra ShaddPhoto of Kohler house: Debra ShaddPhotos of Kohler Family Graves: Joe SelinskiResources used to research this episode include:Publishing , Excelsior . "John M. Kohler." https://freepages.rootsweb.com/. freepages.rootsweb.com/~sheboygan/genealogy/bios623.htm. Accessed 21 July 2024., Herostratus. "John Michael Kohler." https://en.m.wikipedia.org/. edited by Theanonymoustypist, 23 Jan. 2024. en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Michael_Kohler. Accessed 21 July 2024., Kohler. "Our History ." https://www.kohler.com/. www.kohler.com/en/about-us/our-heritage. Accessed 21 July 2024.Historical Collections , Harvard Business School . "1873: Off the Rails." https://www.library.hbs.edu/. www.library.hbs.edu/hc/crises/1873.html. Accessed 21 July 2024. "History of enamelware - kitchen & household ." http://www.oldandinteresting.com/. 5 Mar. 2012. www.oldandinteresting.com/enamelware-history.aspx. Accessed 21 July 2024.Dipple, Beth. "History Uncovered: Location, location, location – Kohler and Vollrath companies' first homes ." https://www.sheboygansun.com/. 29 Dec. 2021. www.sheboygansun.com/history/history-uncovered-location-location-location-kohler-and-vollrath-companies-first-homes/article_9ffd3928-68c8-11ec-864f-1b7c2d61bad2.html. Accessed 21 July 2024.Selinski, Joe. "John Michael Kohler." https://www.findagrave.com/. edited by Linda Belmonte, 21 May 2006. www.findagrave.com/memorial/14351528/john_michael_kohler. Accessed 21 July 2024. Made In Wisconsin. 1987, pp. 17 - 23.Broman, Thomas. "The Early History of the Kohler Company ." https://wi101.wisc.edu/. 2 Nov. 2020. wi101.wisc.edu/the-early-history-of-the-kohler-company/. Accessed 21 July 2024.What It's Like To Be...What's it like to be a Cattle Rancher? FBI Special Agent? Professional Santa? Find out!Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Kristin Lytle is CEO of The Leader's Edge and has significant experience in talent assessment, leadership development, succession planning, and organizational design. Over the span of her career, she has worked with top organizations, such as Vanguard, Kohler Company, Whirlpool, and Target. Kristin has held leadership roles in business operations and human resources, in both domestic and global capacities, throughout her career. She has a proven track record for developing scalable and sustainable talent solutions that align with business priorities, while enabling leaders to unlock their full potential. She has built a reputation for being a trusted partner to business leaders, by focusing on pragmatic solutions that drive measurable results. Kristin is an experienced executive coach, dynamic presenter, and skilled facilitator. What You'll Learn ● How to develop good leaders. ● Why regulation and self-awareness are important. ● How to navigate family business secession. ● How to cultivate leadership skillsets. Timestamps · [04:50] A bit about Kristin's journey. · [07:37] Giving access to the right people. · [09:36] How to develop leaders on a limited budget. · [16:39] Developing self-awareness and regulation. · [20:20] Navigating family business secession. · [30:07] The benefits of 360s. · [35:26] Where's the line? · [39:16] The top emerging leadership skillsets. Memorable Quotes · “You have to have leaders who are capable of making good quality decisions.” – Kristin Lytle [12:11] · “We can't change what we don't notice.” – Chris Yonker [15:44] Websites fambizforum.com. the-leaders-edge.com. www.linkedin.com/in/kristinlytle. www.chrisyonker.com.
Discover the startling truth behind the investor-driven revolution in home design as we unpack the effects of private equity's stronghold on the market. With 44% of last year's home flips attributed to investors, you'll get an inside look at how this shift is not just altering the landscape of homeownership, but also redefining the value and investment we place in our living spaces. This episode peels back the layers on the surge of short-term rentals and its implications for the interior design industry, questioning whether the essence of creating a home is being lost to the lure of quick profits. As we navigate through the ripple effects of economic uncertainty, hear from industry leaders on how rising interest rates and escalating costs are steering homeowner decisions. We offer a strategic playbook for design businesses bracing for these changes, discussing the pivot from expansive to intimate renovations and the importance of marketing to maintain a steady course through economic headwinds. Drawing on past corporate war stories like those from Kohler Company during the 2008 financial crisis, we provide guidance on how high-end clients are likely to weather this storm, ensuring you're equipped with the knowledge to adapt and thrive in this evolving market.If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-114-HARO-is-Dead-Best-Ways-to-Get-Quick-Press-Right-NowTransform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academyDesigner Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses. Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store. Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY
The Leader's Edge | A Conversation with Kristin Lytle
J.D. Thompson, Executive Vice President for the Communication Workers of America Local 2001, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and discussed ongoing contract negotiations with Frontier Communications. Thompson also addressed fiber expansion in the area and the potential of a strike. United Auto Workers Local 833 President Tim Tayloe joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and talked about the Local's new Collective Bargaining Agreement with the Kohler Company. Tayloe also spoke about his time with the union and his predictions for what the future holds for Local 833.
This bonus episode is part of the Uniquely Wisconsin series, a broadcast and streaming series that spotlights the untold stories of Wisconsinites and highlights the communities in which they live. From the emotional and heartwarming, to the humorous and the historic, the Uniquely Wisconsin brand captures the essence of the people of America's Dairyland. While still a Discover Wisconsin feel, we're doing a deeper dive into the culture that makes up each county and how it forms Wisconsin's culture. This week, we highlight Sheboygan County.We begin with facts about Sheboygan County and how it serves as a fascinating cross-section of the state. Right by peaceful farms and beautiful forests with lakes and rolling hills you'll find world-class golfing destinations, resorts, impeccable dining, and robust companies with international profiles. While the county seat of Sheboygan is “bratwurst capital of the world” and a coastal city known for its freshwater surfing opportunities that draw people from all over – even in winter – a bevy of smaller towns offer a variety of ways to enjoy living, working, and playing. Plymouth, Sheboygan Falls, Howard's Grove, Greenbush, Elkhart Lake, Oostburg, Cedar Grove and more all offer options with convenient access to anything you need. Kohler, a town built from its namesake company, offers five-star golf, resorts, shopping, and even the Kohler Design Center, which inspires anyone looking to maximize the beauty and functionality of their home. Bold and diverse, yet friendly with great quality of life and opportunity – it's all in Sheboygan County.Stories shared include:The Arts Residency Program at John Michael Kohler Arts Center. The museum, which was opened thanks to the Kohler family in 1957, launched an Arts/Industry Residency Program in 1974. Ruth DeYoung Kohler II and her brother, the late Herb Kohler, were the founders and what they created became internationally recognized. The program invites a select group of artists at three month intervals to spend time in Kohler, creating artwork from materials found within Kohler Company's factory. They design beautiful artwork from enamel, brass, and more. Nearly 500 artists have participated in the program. The 12 artists chosen each year through a very competitive juried application process get the opportunity to work with one of the most unique collaborations between art and industry in the nation.Community Support with Lemons of Love. Lemons of Love is a non-profit that deliver cares packages to those diagnosed or impacted by cancer and cancer treatments. When Jill Swanson was diagnosed with cancer, she received a gift package to help her throughout the treatment process. She discovered these smallest of gifts can sometimes change the world for someone by providing motivation and inspiration.In 2014 Jill created Lemons of Love to pass on that motivation to other individuals impacted by cancer. Lemons of Love is in Plymouth, with another location in Mount Prospect, Illinois. Since starting in 2014, Lemons of Love has worked with over 1,600 volunteers who have created and delivered over 19,000 care packages and who provide one-on-one family support. You can find out more, even volunteer or donate, at LemonsOfLove.org.The Shaw Family Playground. While fully-accessible ADA playgrounds are somewhat limited around Wisconsin, Sheboygan County recent developed its first fully accessible ADA playground in partnership with the Sheboygan Park Project and the Friends of the Sheboygan Jaycees. Sheboygan Park Project founders Ryan and Angie Shaw, whose story involving their conjoined twins became well-known, wanted to provide a space for their children and others to not have to watch from the sidelines as other children played. They spearheaded the fundraising and efforts to see the project through, realizing this inspiring vision to create a place for all kids. The park had its grand opening on August 27th, 2022 and is located within Evergreen Park on Pine Grove Avenue in Sheboygan; all are welcome.Family Business Legacies and Visions. We focus on two great businesses in Sheboygan: 3 Sheeps Brewing, which started relatively recently, and Miesfeld's, a longtime family business tradition.3 Sheeps Brewing: Starting at home by trial and error, Grant Pauly decided to take the next step in developing his business in 2012. What started for him as a hobby has now one of the most recognized local craft breweries in Wisconsin. As the company outgrew its original location, it moved into a former Coca-Cola facility that provided room for its expansion. Taking a chance and having a vision for success is key to any business plan, and Grant Pauly's story is in an inspiring one as 3 Sheeps continues to grow. Their brewery and tap room on North Avenue hosts live music and events as well as room to enjoy food, beverages, and games in a facility that welcomes the whole family. Miesfeld's is a widely loved, family-run business in Sheboygan County since 1941. Now home to the largest meat counters in the Midwest, Miesfeld's is a prime example of the power of Wisconsin's meat and sausage industry – and Sheboygan County's in particular. One thing that separates Miesfelds from most is their commitment to community. Every week at the Brat Hut outside the store, there is a brat fry that local organizations sign-up for to raise money. Miesfelds has also played a large part in fundraising for different causes, including the Children's Hospital of Wisconsin.We also talked with Karin Kirchmeier, the Executive Director of the Partners for Community Development in Sheboygan County. We discussed her love of the county and how the welcoming atmosphere made her arrival in the county two years ago an easy one for her and her family. We also covered many of the county's unique features and amenities and discussed some of their initiatives, which extend even beyond the county. Michelle then offers a preview of what we can watch on Uniquely Wisconsin's Sheboygan County episode online, including stories about the renowned Sheboygan Symphony, where we visit with a local music teacher who shares his talents and also the new conductor, who shares why he fell in love with Sheboygan County and his motivation to perform. The Sheboygan Youth Sailing Team, which introduces youths and adults to sailing while helping them develop the skills and safety to crow and skipper a sailboat. This program allows Sheboygan County residents to take advantage of the opportunities the vast shorelines of Lake Michigan provides. And finally, the Green Bicycle Company, Heather Cleveland founded in 2000 with the mission of helping people create and achieve their goals. Through community projects and consulting, Heather's dedication to her county and the communities within is an inspiration for others.
California is a leader in the energy transition. There's no doubt about it.But even the most mature solar market in the country hasn't always gotten it right.A community solar program implemented in 2013 never really panned out. And while the community solar sector grew rapidly in other states, California watched as few projects got built. Episode 33 of the Factor This! podcast features Aaron Halimi, president and founder of the California-based community solar developer Renewable Properties. Halimi breaks down the state of community solar, the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act, and California's second attempt to craft a successful program. Can they get it right this time?That's all next on Factor This!About the sponsor:This episode of Factor This! is sponsored by Heila Technologies, a Kohler Company.Heila is changing the way complex microgrids are managed and operated with its EDGE control and optimization platform, which makes each asset in a system smarter while making the whole microgrid more efficient and resilient.The EDGE helps EPCs and developers simplify microgrid deployment through a flexible approach that ensures systems operate reliably while unlocking new revenue streams.Heila is a proud sponsor of the 2023 GridTech Connect Forum. Register now at www.gridtechconnect.com to learn more about Heila and the EDGE platform.Factor This! is produced by Renewable Energy World and Clarion Energy. Connect with John Engel, the host of Factor This!, on LinkedIn and Twitter.
The pitfalls of the energy transition are on full display in a Southeast state. A 2021 law set North Carolina on its way to slashing carbon emissions by 70% by the end of the decade and reaching carbon neutrality by 2050. HB 951 represented an unprecedented, bipartisan effort for a state to tackle climate change and deploy clean energy.But clashes between Duke Energy, the utility governed by the law, and clean energy developers showcase that historic policy is only part of the equation. Execution is just as challenging.Episode 32 of the Factor This! podcast features Steve Levitas and Tyler Norris, who both work on clean energy policy for utility-scale solar and storage developers. They share why what's happening in North Carolina should be a warning to the rest of the country.About the sponsors:This episode of Factor This! is sponsored by Rolls Battery. Available in four popular case sizes, Rolls Battery's new R-Series 12-volt & 24-volt lithium models offer a maintenance-free, lightweight alternative to traditional deep-cycle batteries. With fast charge/discharge capability and up to 4 in-series and 4 in-parallel connectivity for 48-volt system configuration, Rolls LFP lithium are a true drop-in replacement. Lithium iron phosphate technology and built-in protections ensure safe operation and exceptional cycle life, and all models are backed by a 3-year, full-replacement manufacturer warranty. Visit RollsBattery.com to find a distributor near you.This episode of Factor This! is also sponsored by Heila Technologies, a Kohler Company.Heila is changing the way complex microgrids are managed and operated with its EDGE control and optimization platform, which makes each asset in a system smarter while making the whole microgrid more efficient and resilient.The EDGE helps EPCs and developers simplify microgrid deployment through a flexible approach that ensures systems operate reliably while unlocking new revenue streams.Heila is a proud sponsor of the 2023 GridTech Connect Forum. Register now at www.gridtechconnect.com to learn more about Heila and the EDGE platform.Factor This! is produced by Renewable Energy World and Clarion Energy. Connect with John Engel, the host of Factor This!, on LinkedIn and Twitter.The GridTECH Connect Forum is almost here. Join us in San Diego, California on Feb. 6 as we bring together DER developers, utilities, and regulators around the critical issue of interconnection. Join Southern California Edison, PG&E, SDG&E, Nexamp, Standard Solar, DSD Renewables, and more for an event hyper-focused on the California market. Register today. Registration is now open for the GridTECH Connect Forum, a new event bringing together distributed energy developers and utilities to tackle the critical issue of interconnection. Join us in San Diego on Feb. 6, 2023 for an event focused on the California market, like interconnection collaboration, vehicle-to-grid integration, demand response, and more. Learn more at GridTECHConnect.com.
This episode of Factor This! is sponsored by Heila Technologies, a Kohler company.Episode 31 of the Factor This! podcast features Aaron Bates, the CEO and founder of Toledo Solar, a manufacturer of cadmium telluride thin-film solar modules.Bates cares deeply about who is making solar modules and, just as importantly, where. And he has strong opinions about the direction the solar industry is heading.In response to the Inflation Reduction Act, Toledo Solar is scaling its production capacity to 2.3 gigawatts by 2027. It's bringing the technology that made First Solar a household name to the commercial and residential sectors, and doing it right down the street from First Solar's factory in Ohio.Bates discusses Toledo Solar and its ties to Ohio's rich history of manufacturing, silicon vs. CadTe modules, tariffs, and what he calls the "untruths" behind Made in America solar.About the sponsor:This episode of Factor This is sponsored by Heila Technologies, a Kohler Company.Heila is changing the way complex microgrids are managed and operated with its EDGE control and optimization platform, which makes each asset in a system smarter while making the whole microgrid more efficient and resilient. The EDGE helps EPCs and developers simplify microgrid deployment through a flexible approach that ensures systems operate reliably while unlocking new revenue streams.Heila is a proud sponsor of the 2023 GridTech Connect Forum. Register now at www.gridtechconnect.com to learn more about Heila and the EDGE platform.Factor This! is produced by Renewable Energy World and Clarion Energy. Connect with John Engel, the host of Factor This!, on LinkedIn and Twitter.The GridTECH Connect Forum is almost here. Join us in San Diego, California on Feb. 6 as we bring together DER developers, utilities, and regulators around the critical issue of interconnection. Join Southern California Edison, PG&E, SDG&E, Nexamp, Standard Solar, DSD Renewables, and more for an event hyper-focused on the California market. Register today. Registration is now open for the GridTECH Connect Forum, a new event bringing together distributed energy developers and utilities to tackle the critical issue of interconnection. Join us in San Diego on Feb. 6, 2023 for an event focused on the California market, like interconnection collaboration, vehicle-to-grid integration, demand response, and more. Learn more at GridTECHConnect.com.
This episode of Factor This! is sponsored by Heila Technologies, a Kohler company. Corporate demand for clean energy couldn't be hotter. And it's not just for far-away solar and wind farms anymore.In a year plagued by trade disputes, supply chain constraints, and missed targets, onsite commercial and industrial deployment of solar, batteries and EV charging grew in 2022 when other areas sank.Leaders in the C&I space say it's about to explode. That growth doesn't come without its own challenges for grid reliability.Episode 30 of the Factor This! podcast features Raphael Declercq, CEO of the C&I solar, storage, and EV charging developer PowerFlex.Owned by EDF Renewables, PowerFlex is a leader in the C&I space, recently raising $100 million to expand its onsite energy management hardware and software offering.Declercq weighed in on the impact of the California net metering decision, intelligent EV charging, and the outlook for an often overlooked segment of the industry.About the sponsor:This episode of Factor This is sponsored by Heila Technologies, a Kohler Company.Heila is changing the way complex microgrids are managed and operated with its EDGE control and optimization platform, which makes each asset in a system smarter while making the whole microgrid more efficient and resilient. The EDGE helps EPCs and developers simplify microgrid deployment through a flexible approach that ensures systems operate reliably while unlocking new revenue streams.Heila is a proud sponsor of the 2023 GridTech Connect Forum. Register now at www.gridtechconnect.com to learn more about Heila and the EDGE platform.Factor This! is produced by Renewable Energy World and Clarion Energy. Connect with John Engel, the host of Factor This!, on LinkedIn and Twitter.The GridTECH Connect Forum is almost here. Join us in San Diego, California on Feb. 6 as we bring together DER developers, utilities, and regulators around the critical issue of interconnection. Join Southern California Edison, PG&E, SDG&E, Nexamp, Standard Solar, DSD Renewables, and more for an event hyper-focused on the California market. Register today. Registration is now open for the GridTECH Connect Forum, a new event bringing together distributed energy developers and utilities to tackle the critical issue of interconnection. Join us in San Diego on Feb. 6, 2023 for an event focused on the California market, like interconnection collaboration, vehicle-to-grid integration, demand response, and more. Learn more at GridTECHConnect.com.
A transformational Global Senior Executive with extensive experience leading well-known consumer-facing brands spanning multinational public companies to owner-operator and founder-led organizations. Strong track record of driving results in general management, omnichannel, merchandising, consulting, and strategy development. A clear communicator and developer of high-performing teams and a cross-functional collaborator with global teams, vendors, customers, and investors. Known for solving problems, creative rebranding, commitment to the customer, and positioning businesses for innovative growth and potential sale. SELECT ACCOMPLISHMENTS Extensive turnaround experience in the omnichannel consumer sector. Experience working with private equity including both sell and buy-side. Implemented ERP, warehouse management, and new web platforms. Deep experience in product development, sourcing, and manufacturing. Recipient of leadership and product design awards including Women in Business Honoree - Minneapolis/St Paul Business Journal, (2019) and Corporate Leadership Award, Melanoma Research Foundation (2018). • Member of private and non-profit boards of directors. RELEVANT SKILLS Strategic Planning & Execution, Growth Leadership, Change Management, P & L Management, Forecasting, Global Cross-Functional Team Leadership, Supply Chain Management, Lean Process Improvement, M & A, Integration Strategies, Retail & Industrial Channel Management, Organization Development, Global Partnership Development, Board of Directors, Product Innovation, Private Equity (PE), Transformational Leadership PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE HEARTLAND AMERICA, Greater Minneapolis, MN Chief Executive Officer 2021 – present In business for 40+ years, Heartland America is a private consumer-based company with investors that sells a full range of end-of season retail products through catalog, phone, and digital to consumers nationwide. 130 employees, ~ $50M annual revenue. Hired to develop strategies and plans to turn around, stabilize, and grow the business. Report to the BOD Chair. KCREICHENAU CONSULTING, Minneapolis, MN Founder and CEO 2019 - present Support companies and PE firms to evaluate businesses with a focus on growth, opportunities, and customers. Work with multiple private equity firms to help with due diligence and identify opportunities for multiple companies in the consumer space. Successfully conducted a business unit analysis for CEO/Board to decide how to grow a division of a $300M consumer-based company. COOLIBAR, Minneapolis, MN Chief Executive Officer 2014 – 2019 This mission-driven brand has introduced numerous innovative fabric technologies, raised standards in sun protective ratings, and designed a variety of UPF 50+ apparel. In 2016 the business was acquired by Olivarius Hospitality. Recruited to succeed the founder in 2014 to reposition the company for the next phase of growth. EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP | STRATEGY DEVELOPMENT | CORPORATE ALIGNMENT | EXIT STRATEGY • Collaborated with the BOD and senior leaders to develop strategy and implantation plans, budget, and portfolio. Kendra Reichenau – page 2 Led the business turnaround with a successful transaction to new ownership in 2016. Deployed significant change management and prioritization methods including new systems, implementation, ERP integration, warehouse, and web platform. Led global growth including 200 retail and luxury resort wholesale accounts. Attained Double-digit growth for three consecutive years, with 100% growth in year five. OPERATIONS | BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Increased from 45 FTE employees to 100 global employees; added in-house production offices in Thailand and India. • Migrated 50% of all production away from agents to in-house to improve margins, quality, and supply chain. • Achieved strong growth by prioritizing e-commerce and Amazon businesses. Focused on growing new wholesale channels and strengthening core business, as well as identifying new product categories and brand partnerships. Built a strong online community through social media with a focus on education and support. Grew customer engagement by 300%. KOHLER COMPANY, Kohler, WI President, McGuire Furniture - San Francisco, CA 2011 – 2013 One of the largest privately-operated global firms with 48 divisions and ~$6.5B in annual revenue. Led turnaround, management, and growth of an international, omnichannel luxury furniture company in wholesale, retail, manufacturing, and design. Managed a 300-member global team. Re-invigorated a 60-year-old heritage company known for high quality and beautiful design. • Managed full P&L for two manufacturing plants, three unions, and 120 wholesale partners globally. • Grew successful e-commerce and digital strategy. Won multiple design awards for new product launches. Created a strong foundation of sales and products for the successful sale of the company in 2015. LUXOTTICA GROUP. Milan, Italy Senior Vice President and General Manager - N3L Optics - Orange County, CA 2007 – 2011 Luxottica is a global leader in eyewear, with over 5,800 optical and sun retail stores in North America, Asia-Pacific, China, and Europe with a strong brand portfolio including Ray-Ban, the best-selling sun and prescription eyewear brand globally. Reported directly to the CEO of Oakley. Managed 70 employees with full P&L responsibility. • Developed and launched an interactive, multi-branded sports performance sunglass retail concept. • Grew the business to 10 locations when successfully transferred over to the Sunglass Hut division. • Attained + 20% YoY store increase on 10% less inventory (2010). Created the branding, defined the consumer, and developed the PR/marketing strategy to drive awareness in national and local markets. Drove all assortments and visuals, and ensured field support and training. Senior Vice President and GMM - Sunglass Icon, division of Oakley, Inc. Responsible for the general management of a 125-retail inline and kiosk sunglass store chain. • Created the vision for all marketing, merchandising, and field training and execution. Negotiated new terms and relationships with the vendor community. Improved margin by 1.5 pts. Grew revenue by 6% to over $80M business. Led the migration of all 125 locations to be re-branded under Sunglasses Hut name and systems once Oakley was purchased by Luxottica. REICHENAU CONSULTING, San Francisco, CA Interim Executive and Consultant - San Francisco, CA 2004 – 2007 Worked with Board Members at Oakley, CEO of Gymboree, President of Dockers, and CEO of Crescent Jewelers to review existing product development processes, identify business opportunities, and implement organizational change. Acting VP of Design for Dockers Women's - Focused on improving fit and defining the design process by calendar month. Acting GMM for Crescent Jewelers - Created a marketing plan, new brand image, and visual standard for all stores. Reduced inventory by 20%; improved sales by 10%. Acting Head of Merchandising for Janeville (Gymboree) – Defined and clarified the customer, streamlined the product fits, and the go-to-market processes. GAP, INC., San Francisco, CA - Senior Director and Divisional Merchandise Manager - Women's NORDSTROM, INC., Seattle, WA - Vice President, Brand Manager, Halogen ARTHUR ANDERSEN/KPMG, San Francisco CA - Manager EDUCATION SCRIPPS COLLEGE, Claremont, CA - Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science AWARDS AND RECOGNITION Women in Business Honoree - Minneapolis/St Paul Business Journal - 2019 Corporate Leadership Award - Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF) – 2018 Several Design Awards for Product Launches - KOHLER COMPANY - McGuire Furniture PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS CHIEF (National Executive Women's Group) – Selected Member 2022 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Board Member- WASHBURN CENTER FOR CHILDREN, Minneapolis, MN (2021 – present) Board Member; Executive Committee - CRISTO REY HIGH SCHOOL, Minneapolis, MN (2015 - 2021) Board Member; Chair, Marketing Committee - IMMACULATE CONCEPTION ACADEMY - Cristo Rey (2009-2013)
The history of the American Club. Wauk-tober Beer and Wine Walk. Wisconsin bug guy. This week's Packers pundit playback. Laura Lyons is back. The history of the American Club Built in 1918, The American cub was once lodging for immigrant workers of the Kohler Company. 20:55 - Wauktober Beer and Wine Walk Robin Grams from the City Of Waukesha Community Development Department tells us what's going on at this year's Wauk-tober Beer and Wine Walk. 45:21- Pj Leisch talks all things bugs Extension entomologist and director of the University of Wisconsin Insect Diagnostic Lab, Pj Leisch, aka Wisconsin Bug Guy, talks all things Wisconsin and bugs. 1:05:30 - This week's Packers pundit playback Host of The Bart Winkler show, Bart Winkler recaps yesterday's Packer game. 1:29:40 - Laura Lyons is back Writer and comedian, Laura Lyons is back and talking about all things pop culture and women's rights in Iran. You can find Laura on TikTok and Instagram ----------------------------------------------------------------- Music from today's show can be found on As Goes Wisconsin's Spotify playlist. We love hearing from you! Got a topic you think we should cover? Have an idea for a guest we should have on? Want to leave us feedback? Let us know!
When we listen to a missionary it often causes us to reflect. Does my life have a larger meaning like there's? Do I see God at work as they do? Listen in to today's show where we hear the story of a couple who changed the trajectory of their lives by leaving the business world to become missionaries. Why this topic at this time? Today's episode is in response to a podcast listener by the name of Patty who said she'd like to hear more interviews with missionaries. I can see why. They are some of the most interesting people around. To talk with a missionary is almost always an interesting conversation. And more than interesting, whenever we truly hear the story of another person, whether they're a missionary or not, it can't help but cause us to reflect upon our own story. For today's show, I interviewed two of my friends, Billy and Laura Borkenhagen, to learn from them and their life-changing missionary story. One thing that's different about today's episode is that I have a word-for-word transcript of my interview in the show notes. It was done using AI - artificial intelligence software. I have been wanting to experiment with this for a while. And if actual transcripts are something you'd like to see more of, please let me know. Okay. Let's get on with it. Interview transcript John: So Laura and Billy, tell us a little bit about your journey to becoming missionaries. I mean, you both had pretty great careers and you left all of that to become missionaries in a camping ministry. Laura, why don't we start with you first? Laura: Sure. So yeah, Billy and I met in college and Billy became an architect and I began working in marketing. We both worked at the Kohler Company for our careers. I even traveled internationally for, a bit of time, which was really fun and fixed up a house. And I, I ran, I started my own photo business and Billy started working downtown in Milwaukee. We had three kids and life was, you know, kind of how I had it planned in my Excel spreadsheet of how I wanted my life to be. Yeah. And so we had taken our family with our three kids up to camp just to attend a winter camp and, just really had a great time. And so the next year we decided to go back and while we were there, I was reading in the dining hall. They have all the missionaries, like a little bio about each one of them and I was reading them. And at the end there was a job posting. I wasn't looking for a job, but I just, in that moment, I knew that that was my job. And that kind of just started a journey of us asking questions. And yeah, it was a bit of a story, but we, we ended up both joining as missionaries at, at Fort wilderness. And now we're here in the north woods. John: Well, tell us a little bit about what camping is at Fort wilderness and what your role is there. Laura: Sure. Fort wilderness is a camping ministry it's in Northern Wisconsin and it really aims to do, do four things. They get people out in God's creation in the outdoors just immersed, in what God's created, gives people God's word. So at all the different camps and retreats, there's always a speaker or, or way for you to hear, hear God's word. And then they use adventure programming. So things like horses and water slides and tubing Hills, and swimming and all sorts of adventure things. And then the fourth one is community. And so, so you're, you're always in Christian community. So it uses those four things and it's year round, summer, winter fall. And then there's camps for families. There are things just for youth where they get dropped off for, for a week or so there's a college age program. And then there's adult programs where it's like, just adults, like a men's retreat or women's retreat. John: So you're doing, you're doing your marketing thing, part-time from your home and Billy's still working in the Milwaukee area as an architect, correct? Laura: Yeah. That's how it started. I, I saw this job posting and I said, Hey, would you consider someone working part-time remote because I'm not moving that was my quote. And funny how, how God, every time I've said I would not do something, I feel like I've done it. John: Yeah. Laura: Yeah. So the, they were like, well, maybe like why? And I was like, well, I'm not interested in moving, but oh, I'd love to like work for Fort. And so they entertained the idea. They're like, sure, like think about it, pray about it. So I applied, I interviewed and I became the first ever remote employee. Working from the Milwaukee area while Billy was working in Milwaukee and the plan, I was willing to raise support as a missionary, but they said, well, we've never had anyone working remotely. So they offered me a six month contract where they paid me and they said at six months, if it works out, then we'll talk about raising support said, okay. So the six month mark comes and, and COVID had hit. And so I, I was not the only remote employee anymore cuz lots of people were working remote at that point. Laura: But the six month mark came and we were up at camp helping out and I was supposed to have this meeting about raising support. But before that meeting Billy's boss approached him and said, Hey,, there's really no job available, but I really need an architect. And you're married to Laura. Like, would you guys consider moving up here and, joining staff. And we were like, um maybe I'm not sure. And so the short story, they sent us home and said pray about it for the next 30 days. And we said yes, after that 30 days, cuz we really felt, felt the Lord every, there was a hundred instances where we felt like, wow, the Lord is just really showing us and opening this door. John: Yeah. And Billy, that was quite a, I mean it was big change for Laura, but, but you actually gave up a pretty great job as an architect. How did, how did that, how did God work in your life to, to do such a thing? Billy: Yeah. I really thought that I would retire at HGA cuz it was a really good firm and my opportunity to work there was pretty unique and through one of my college professors, so I had a good job and I liked it. I think the shortest way I can answer that. The short story is that by a combination of the opportunities at Fort wilderness, the special needs that they had and then some things that God was doing, not only in my life, but in Laura's life, separately, but at the same time. And each of us made it pretty clear to us that this is something that, we should step into. And that was kind of the answer to the prayer that we got. So that's the very short version of that story. I think the longer version is that God had showed me very clearly that we weren't in total control of our lives. Billy: As much as you think you are, as much as you think the way you live or the job you have or the community you're in is giving you some sense of control God had shown us in personal ways that we're actually not in control. And so that put our minds in a place where I think we were willing to consider leaving all of the stuff that we've built up over the years and taking a risk of stepping in, into sort of this unknown role and fulfilling this, what was a, a clear need, but an unknown role for us. And so the timing of that sensation with the open doors and the opportunities and all of that is really what compelled us to seriously pray about it and determined this is where God was leading us. John: Mm yeah. So it's not like you were, you were running away from something that, you know, things are going along pretty well. And, but here is something that was better that God was leading you to. Billy: Yeah,Absolutely. I mean, it's still to be honest, you know, sometimes at our worst we're tempted to think like, man, did we, you know, you get to this point where can't go back and you're like, did we make a mistake? You know, going forward. And yeah. And I think a lot of that is just the enemy tempting us and trying to, you know, keep us from what God's called us into. But yeah, absolutely. It wasn't certainly wasn't running away. In fact it was quite when we came to Fort wilderness, for me personally, I had a lot of support and encouragement from peers and coworkers and even my own supervisor when I left and broke the news to him that I was, you know, gonna be resigning in the next month and talked to him. He this was God's grace. Billy: He had offered that, you know, he is like, he's like, I, I'm not gonna ask you to stay and offer you more money cuz I understand why you're doing this, he's like, but if things don't work out in spring and your support raising, isn't going well, he's like just call me, you know, I could throw some work your way and you could work remotely. Everybody was working remotely at that time. Anyway. So things like that were super helpful and leaving on leaving with good rapport and on good terms is, you know, something you still think about, especially in those moments when you're doubting and you know, wondering, and life is seeming more complicated than it probably should be. John: Yeah. Yeah. Interesting, you know, one definition of a missionary is someone who goes from one culture to another culture to, in some ways spread the good news of Jesus Christ. Now you move from one part of Wisconsin to another part of Wisconsin, but did you notice any cultural differences between where you were living in, in an urban setting compared to ....your smiling ... Um compared to living in the north woods? Tell us about the change in culture. Laura: Yeah, yeah. That's such a good, good question. You know, I think, I think I know that I downplayed this. I was like, and we've, we've had this whole discussion of what is the definition of a missionary and, and there's different ones. You know, at Fort we raise, we raise our support, meaning that our salaries paid to us. We had to talk to our church and friends and family and they support us monthly and that money pays our salary. So you know, that, that was one thought I had and because we were doing that support raising, I was like, yeah, I'm mean, and there isn't really the cultural thing because we're in Wisconsin and we're still gonna be in Wisconsin. And I, I should have, have thought about that more. It's been a drastic cultural change, both from just living in the city to living in the north woods, but also just not being on the corporate world schedule economy. Laura.: It's been challenging. I think mainly because I downplayed it. It was like, it's no, no big deal. We're just moving four hours away. It's no big deal.... And it, it has been a big deal. Mm. And I, you know, John, you told us, you have a lot of people that listen to your podcasts that are missionaries. And so I don't want that to come across as we did something as, as hard as moving to another country. In fact, I'm saying, wow, this has been a struggle. And we moved four hours and I can't imagine someone moved actually to a different our country. Yeah. we, you know didn't have language barriers or, or any of, of those things. So I don't, I don't wanna diminish, I mean yeah. Mm-Hmm, even more strength it must take to, to go to another country. John: Yeah, yeah. Yeah. How about for you, Billy? What, how has the cultural change, affected you or did it,? Billy: Yeah, certainly I think, especially cuz we moved from a pretty tight knit community and we had a lot of overlap between our church community and our living community mm-hmm . And so the people that we'd see and bump into at church on Sunday were also people that we'd see and bump into, you know, walking around sidewalks and we're just kind of doing life together. And that's, so it's a little, it's much more spread out up here just physically and logistically to overlap and to kind of get insights into people's lives or invite people into your lives is just logistically more challenging. So that was a, that's a big thing. I think that just drives sort of a different culture in the way. Probably that people are just and this is, I don't like to make general statements, but are just less accustomed to always being around mm-hmm you and other of people, you know, it's just, it's just kind of, there's a different vibe to it. Billy: But I think to add to what Laura was saying one of the challenges, and maybe this is less about culture is just being, feeling unestablished. I think when you go from a place where you feel established or you built a home and a life and you go to another place, whether that's 30 minutes away or on the other side of the world, there's a part of you. I think that I felt that where we feel like foreigners a little bit, like we're not, we, we didn't grow up here. You know, we haven't, our kids weren't raised here. We don't have the history, we don't know the places. We don't know the landmarks, all the, all the things that make you kind of have this sense of home and establishment, we're trying to piece together and, you know, get a grip on a little bit. So in that sense, maybe that amplifies the, what we perceive as like a difference in cultures from one to the other. But I think, that's a big part of it. John: Mm. Yeah. You know, one of those things that, we talk a lot about on the podcast is relationships. Have you noticed any differences in relationships where you're living now compared to where you were living, where you came from? Are they, are they different? Are they the same? How has your move affected the relationship between the two of you and, you know, your children, your parents? Has that been affected in any way? Billy: Yeah, I think , sometimes there might be the sense that if God's calling you to something and you understand that call and you accept that call, that you've arrived and you've, you've kind of done it and accomplished, you know, like the rest of this story is, and they lived happily ever after, you know, and I think that one of the things I've come to recognize, especially with relationships is that God doesn't, you know, call the equipped, but that he calls everybody, especially us to come here to grow. And so we've, I think that Laura and I, you know, between the two of us have had growth in our relationship, even in the past weeks. And some of that, I contribute to God, specifically pushing us and growing us in areas together as a married couple. And a lot of it has to do with, you know, that whole being established thing. I think that maybe he hasn't let us get too established yet because he does want us to not be too dependent on things. He loves us too much to let us get established in maybe bad routines or things like that. Mm-Hmm so he's working on us and you know, would he have done that? Had we not slipped into this fall? I don't probably, I don't know, but it seems like as we're here specifically, you know, making our work, his work, he's been pretty intentional in growing us as a married couple. John: Mm-Hmm. Yeah. Laura: I think yeah, our relationships have, have definitely every single one has changed. One thing we were talking about just tonight was so we had this great community where we lived and with our church and our neighborhood and Bible studies, we were in, like, we just, we had this great, great community. Right. And like, lots of people knew we were Christians, but yet we become a missionary. Right. And, so now all these friends know that we did this big thing and moved, right. And like Billy said, like, somehow you can feel like you've arrived. And, and cuz people would say that to you like, oh, I could never do that, but I'm so glad you're doing it. Like as if we're all of sudden somehow elevated, which is just not true, God comes to us in our brokenness. But, the really surprising, you know, the sad change is like, of course, like you don't keep in touch as much as you want because we're here now. Laura: And a lot of our relationships where we lived, like everyone walked places, we only had one car and we almost never used it. Like, so you would just run into people and connect with them. And so that's gone, like, you know, you still can text people and call people, but like that daily interaction it's not there. And so that, that was a great, great loss, but this beautiful thing that's come is people, whether they support us financially or not, we'll text us prayer requests. And it's like, I used to talk to you every day and you never asked me to pray for you. but now I'm a missionary. And like, I get the honor of people reaching out and being like, Hey, this is going on. I know you said that we could reach out for prayer you prayed for this. And I was like, wow, like, so that's been a beautiful change in, in the relationship. Mm-Hmm. That I wasn't expecting to be honest, like I was not expecting that at all. So, yeah. John: Cool. And, tell us about your, kids. You got three young kids. What about your relationship with them and their own individual relationships? Can you comment on that? Laura: You know, it was, it was a really big change for them too. And, and for context, our kids, when we moved were, seven, five and three, when we moved and, and I thought, you know, yeah, they've got friends, but they're super young. You know, they're not gonna, I, I didn't think it would be a huge deal, but there was a lot of factors. They were in public school, COVID hit. Then they were home. Then we decided to homeschool. Then we decided to become missionaries. And so they had like major change after major change, after, or major change. So I, I think there's been highs and lows mm-hmm and I think, I think something God's taught me in it is you can plan all you want and pick out, oh, this community is gonna be best for my kids, or this school is gonna be best, or this church home is gonna be best. But at the end of the day, there's not one perfect place to raise kids. And it's gonna be hard whether we're missionaries in the Northwood of Wisconsin or we're in this perfect picked out community. Mm-Hmm because we had picked out, you know, where we lived was because of the schools and the church and the community and, and there's pros and cons to any place you live. And at the end of the day, you have to put the time into parenting and you've got to rely on the Lord. John: Mm-Hmm Laura: I think the Lord's for sure. Been teaching me that since we've been here. John: Yeah. Yeah. Were there any surprises when you started, when you moved? Laura: Was that a yes, no question? The answer is yes. John: . Can you share one ? Billy: Yeah, I don't want, I don't mean this to sound critical or anything. But I think that for some reason, I thought that I worked in the secular world and that the secular world was very secular. And then you come and where I was going to work , you know, is kind of the church and the ministry. And so I had sort of this ideal in my mind about how that would look and function, and honestly you get into it and you start to discover like, oh, wait a minute. There's actually like, people are still people even here. And there's brokenness mm-hmm and there's challenges. And there's, you know, places where maturity is needed or places where maturity is really strong. And so one surprises that I found myself in moments, like looking back and thinking like, wow, actually in some ways I found my, my company that I worked for to be, you know, in moments could be more empathetic and in moments could be more concerning about, you know, like work life balance or stuff like that. Billy: And, again, I don't mean that to sound like a criticism, especially Fort wilderness is an amazing organization. And, you know, I think we're super blessed and impressed with it, but there's just a, you know, a reckoning of the ideals that we sometimes falsely build up in our mind about how, how ministry is gonna be this perfect place. Everyone's gonna be working hand in hand in community. But like, in fact it is work and , it's called work for a reason because it is difficult and people aren't perfect and we aren't perfect. And, but yet by God's grace we all, you know, so somehow come together and do something. John: Yeah. Yeah. Cool. For each of you, what have you found to be some of the more rewarding things about what you do? Billy: Do you wanna go, Laura: You can go first. Billy: Well, I think it's really cool being like I'm, so I'm a registered architect and I'm an architect by trade and been doing that for years. And I came from a firm of, you know, there are 110 people in it and like 80 architects, people who think and work like I do. And we, you know, we understand the craft that we come together around to do. So being, being the only architect now has on one hand challenges, because you don't have the depth of resources you had and you know, you're always kind of comparing yourself to your, your past or your peers, in the industry. But on the other hand it's really cool cuz you feel like, man, I really matter here. Like I really like I'm bringing the skillset that's unique and prepared us for it. And I matter in this role and I, I really feel like I belong here. And so I think that's been rewarding as we've seen projects come together and as we kind of solidify with our teams and you know, work together really well and actually see stuff get done, it's, it's kind of a cool feeling. You feel like you really had a big impact on it. John: Mm-hmm great. Laura: Yeah. And I'd, I'd say I think our unique area of ministry of, what Fort does, family camps in general, the people coming are all Christians to the family camp. Like you come to family camp to have a certain experience and you likely wouldn't sign up to attend a Christian family camp if you're not Christian in general. Right. So, so that part of the ministry people come and they are expecting and willing to talk about deep things because you're the missionary staff. And so, you know, I worked years at the Kohler company and had maybe one spiritual top discussion with a colleague because it's like taboo in the workplace to talk about anything. Right. Spiritual. Yeah. Yeah. And so if to get on that level with someone took years of working with them and it's like, we're up here at camp. And like our first summer I'm like, I just had this incredible conversation and this camper was talking to me about that. Laura: Right. And it's just like happening all over. And so that was like super encouraging. And then the youth camps and all winter, the youth groups come up all winter and, and so that you've got just all sorts of people. Like they're not, not all Christians and they're seeking and so yeah, I've just been, just touched the whole, the whole year. And I, I guess maybe it, it, after working corporate world for a long time, I hope that I never lose that this first year joy that every time campers are there, there's an opportunity for an incredible conversation. Yeah. yeah. Yeah. You know, and, and the flip side of that, honestly, though, John is like, there are days when I'm doing my marketing stuff that I just feel like I'm doing marketing stuff. Right. And, and I think as someone who, this is our first time working in ministry and I, I cringe at that term because you work as a Christian, I think you're always working in ministry. You're just not always being paid. Right. Like, yeah. So I guess I think, you know, we're one year in living up here and, and I'm still, I'm still wrestling through, I think a lot of that of am I, am I doing ministry when I'm plugging away at my computer? Mm-Hmm you know, or is it only when I'm talking with campers? Billy: Yeah. Laura: And there's a guilt in that right. Of like, and then you have camp is fun. So it's like, I never wanna leave because I might miss out on some incredible conversation. And then I'm like, but wait, like this isn't about me. Like God is actually doing the work. So I can go home like, , I can go rest. Right. Billy: It's a bit of an identity crisis at times, because it's like on one hand, I'm, I'm a professional who came from the corporate world and I'm, for me, I'm an architect and I do architect and we drive projects and I know what to do as an architect. So I've got that title. But on the other hand, I'm sort of this, I guess, cliche, missionary title too, you know, it's like, and so I feel like, like you're saying, if I'm doing my architecture stuff really well, it takes a lot of, you know, time and dedication. And I feel like, okay, I'm, I'm being a good architect, but now I'm not being a good mission area because I'm not doing ministry with people and you know, and so then it's like, all right, now, what is mission? What is ministry then? Billy: Is it designing the projects and, you know, making them successful or is it serving lunch with a camper or having the spiritual conversation or preaching, or, you know, where, when I'm an architect one minute, and the next minute i'm a missionary and, you know, maybe, you know, why doe it gotta be so complicated? but, but there's a bit of that where you feel like you're doing one well, and you're neglecting the other, or you're doing the other well, and you're neglecting the first and mm. It's kind of a strange gray area. Cause you're, yeah. You know, you're compared to professionals on one hand, but also this definition of a missionary on the other hand. John: Yeah. That was interesting. What have you learned about yourself? You've been there now? What a year and a half, two years, is it Billy: Deep questions. You know, I think, I think one thing that I've learned is I didn't think that where I lived and the house I had mattered to me as much as it apparently did. I Billy: Hmm. You know, and I think that we were talking a little bit earlier about, you know, this idea of being established and all that, and it's, it's more uncomfortable than I probably thought it would be. You know, I kind of had this idea that I could live. We could live anywhere. You know, we're pretty flexible. We're nimble all this stuff, but it's just weird how these silly thoughts come to you. You like the neighborhood we live in now, demographically is, is much poor, very different, mostly all rentals. Like, so you have, you know, it's, it's not hard to see that there's like a lot of brokenness and the families and things around here. And, you know, in Wauwatosa I think we lived across the street where our next neighbor's house was a $600,000 house. And now , I think the house across the street from us is probably worth $60,000, you know? Billy: So it's like Uh, starkly different. And so you have these dumb thoughts of like, man, my kids, like, what are they gonna grow up understanding of it? You know, like how is this gonna affect them and all this stuff. So I think God has used our living situation to expose idols in our hearts and in his grace has pushed us to deal with those things and to really understand what, you know, what is, what is important. And so I think that's a way that I've seen, I know I've been growing in that. I think we've both been growing in that. Mm. Laura: Yeah. I think the biggest thing I've learned about myself is that I had a lot of deep rooted pride in, in money and my own achievements. Like, like I went to college and, you know, I was a straight A student. And so then you, you get the job and your paycheck comes and you're like, yeah, I deserve that money. In fact, I probably should be paid more because mm-hmm. , I've worked for this and I'm a hard worker and right. Like it, you can just, I mean, I never said those words out loud, but I definitely thought them in my head. And then the Lord leads us to this thing that we have to raise support. Right. And every time, so how it works when we get a paycheck, every paycheck there, we get a sheet in it with all these names and the amount that that person gave in that two week pay period. Laura: Mm. And it's really hard to be prideful when you get a sheet like that every week. And you're like, no, like the reason I get to do this work is because all these people believed that this ministry was worth it and believed that Billy and I were being called to it and are willing to give the funds so that, so I can get paid. And every time I open those little envelopes, I'm like, oh, it's not about me. Like it, like, I just it's. I mean, we've been getting them for a year. Like, and I still can just feel like I need that reminder every two weeks to not be prideful. And I'm like, wow, I had a way bigger pride issue than I thought I had. John: Mm-Hmm. Laura: Like, like, okay, like, you know, and so it gets back to this like dual purpose. It's like, has the Lord called us here because we're, we have skill sets and we have something to offer that Fort needs. Yes. But has he equally called us here because he's working in us and, and through us, like, because we're broken sinful people, like yes. Like both those things are true. Billy: Yeah. Laura: And, I think that's a good place to be, to have both those being true. John: Yeah. What advice would you have for someone who is where you were a year and a half, two years ago? What advice would you have for someone who would be considering leaving a secular job to be, to become a missionary? Billy: I would say that if, if God is really calling you to that, then you can't go wrong and he, he's not calling you because you're equipped and you may, and you may be, and maybe you have a skillset to offer, but it's like, Laura was just saying, he's calling you to equip you. He will equip you. And in ways that are far reaching beyond the actual work that he's calling you to do, mm-hmm,, he's deeply concerned with you. He's deeply concerned with the condition of your heart and he loves you. And that's why he's calling you into it. So if he's, yeah, if you, if he's calling you then do it, but it doesn't mean that the rest of the story is, and they lived happily ever after mm-hmm John: Yes. Billy: He calls us to grow us. Laura: Yeah. I'd echo that. And, and I would also say if you feel the Lord's leading, you, you know, you need to get on your hands and knees and, and make sure that he's, he's the one leading that it's not something in your own mind. And, and I think you do that in prayer. I think you do that in, in his word, you do that by reaching out to, to some really trusted friends, which, you know, John, that, we did that when we were in our, our discernment time period. And for us, all three of those areas in our individual prayer in our time spent in the word and the trusted friends we met with all three pointed to, to going. And at that point we said, yes, we didn't, we didn't ask about the money. Or we were like, well, we can't say no. Now, like, if God has said yes, in all three of those areas, like, I mean, that that's, I that's how we discerned our decision. And so I, I put that time in that discernment process, for sure. John: Yeah. Yeah. Well, this has been great. It's getting going longer than I told you it would go. So I appreciate your appreciate your time. If people wanted to find out more about Fort wilderness, how could they do that? What's the website and all of that. And I'll have it in the show notes too. Laura: Yeah. So it's, it's fortwilderness.com. It's a new website that I had the privilege of working on. So thanks for asking about that, John. John: That's right. I forgot. Yeah. That's a great website. Laura: That's been my big work for the last like eight months. It's not perfect, but, but we did launch the new website and you can find out about the ministry there. You can see the missionaries that are serving there and many are still raising support. Yeah. And you can, you can get in touch with us. We love praying for people and getting to know people so, yeah, that'd be great. John: Mm-Hmm. Good. Well, thanks again. We love you guys and we, we miss you, but we're just really, really excited to see how God is using you for his glory in Northern Wisconsin and all the people that come from all over to learn more about Jesus and you are important parts of that ministry, important parts of facilitating that kind of activity and advancing God's kingdom. So we applaud what you do, that's for sure. So again, thanks for your time. And we will stay in touch. So what does all this mean for YOU? Some of the questions I asked Billy and Laura I found helpful for all of us to ask ourselves How has God led us to what we are doing now? How are relationships impacting our lives? What are the rewarding things about our jobs, or if we're not employed, what's rewarding in the ways we spend our time? What have we learned about ourselves in the last year or two? Here's the main takeaway I hope you remember from today's episode Taking the time to listen to a missionary, to hear their story of how God has led them and is growing them, can inspire us to listen more deeply to God so that we can grow too. I'd love to hear any thoughts you have about today's episode. Closing In closing, I hope your thinking was stimulated by today's show to think about how you can listen to a missionary, or even your friends, to hear their story of how they got to where they are today. For when you do, it will help you experience the joy of relationships God intends for you. Because after all, You Were Made for This. Well, that's it for today. In the meantime, create a little joy for the people you meet this week. Spread some relational sunshine. And I'll see you next time. To check out Fort Wilderness, go to fortwilderness.com Related episodes you may want to listen to 139: Why Should I Listen to This Podcast? 143: Initiate with People to Enrich Our Life - Part 1 144: Initiate with People to Enrich Our Life - Part 2 Our Sponsor You Were Made for This is sponsored by Caring for Others, a missionary care ministry. We are supported by the generosity of people like you to continue this weekly podcast and other services we provide to missionaries around the world.
Employees of Kohler Company will be walking out to protest their employer's requirement that all associates must be vaccinated for COVID-19. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oral Arguments from the Eighth Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals
Oral argument argued before the Eighth Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals on or about 09/22/2021
Golfweek Rater podcast host Jay Blasi sits down with Dirk Willis, Vice President of Global Golf, Retail & Landscape for the Kohler Company, to chat about the upcoming Ryder Cup at Whistling Straits.
Join Sean Reynolds as he shares his journey to Becoming Doctor Reynolds. Dr. Reynold's has been actively engaged in the medical device industry for 23 years. His experience spans various medical device marketing areas such as medical education, sales, field marketing, market development, product management, leadership, and personnel management. Currently, Dr. Reynolds is the Associate Director of Marketing and Business Development – Medtech, for the Kohler Company. He is responsible for developing and defining the business strategy for Kohler's medical technology portfolio in the digital health space. Dr. Reynolds recently completed his Doctor of Business Administration degree from Georgia State University in Atlanta, GA, where he studied surgeon behavioral adoption traits with additive manufactured implants. He is also a proud member of the Black Doctoral Network. To learn more visit: https://blackphdnetwork.com
The KOHLER brand is recognized worldwide for everything from kitchen and bath appliances to generators and hospitality. But they're also known for their social impact initiatives, which seek to improve the lives of their associates, community members and individuals across the globe.In this episode, Laura Kohler, the company's Senior Vice President of Human Resources, Stewardship and Sustainability, shows us the impact a global brand can have in creating a better world in which to work and live.In an engaging conversation, we learn about:How art and manufacturing converge in KOHLER's facilitiesThe Believing in Better initiative for stewardship and sustainabilityWhy gender and ethnic representation in leadership is so crucialHow a diverse workforce accelerates innovationThe importance of STEM/STEAM education and why public education is the key to bright futures for our students
We all know that strong partnerships are essential if we are going to succeed in collaborating to accomplish a zero-carbon future. That's because companies and organizations that work together in business relationships have more opportunities to increase efficiency in joint projects and partner to source from renewable energy sources. This conversation features two of the players in just such a partnership. John speaks with Nathan Nissen, Principal Engineer, Sustainability at Kohler Company, and Greg Rizzo, Director of Origination at Enel Green Power. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... How Kohler Co. and Enel Green Power are moving toward a zero-carbon future [1:19] The impact COVID-19 has had on the sustainability goals of each company [7:10] Why Kohler reached out to Enel Green Power in the first place [10:47] Key components of a renewable energy supply partnership [14:55] A heartfelt commitment to sustainability has to fuel organizational efforts No company is able to push through the many barriers and obstacles that hinder progress on the way to a zero-carbon future without a heartfelt and organization-wide commitment to the goal at hand. In this conversation, you hear a detailed explanation of why the leadership team at Kohler was so committed to a renewable energy transition and the benefits they expected it to bring. But you'll also hear how they recognized their own limitations in getting to that future. As a result, the company sent representatives to a Smart Energy Decisions event in hopes of learning more about the options available to them to meet their renewable energy goals and, at the same time, do it within budget constraints. This conversation highlights the partnership they established with Enel Green Power and how it has enabled the company to be well on its way to meeting its renewable energy goals. The need for scale motivated a partnership that proved invaluable The electricity needs of a factory combined with the capital expenditures required to get to a 100% renewable energy infrastructure forced the team at Kohler to find other options. The Kohler team discovered a variety of options were available at a Smart Energy Decisions event and as a result, reached out to Enel Green Power to establish a VPPA (Virtual Power Purchase Agreement) that solved the problems Kohler was facing. Enel Green Power proved to be the ideal partner because the organization provided a diverse pipeline of solutions for Kohler to choose from which enabled them to be flexible and responsive to meet their needs. Key components of a good renewable energy partnership From the Kohler side of this partnership, it was important to find a partner that had a high level of expertise - someone who understands the nuances of such a complex transaction but also has the capability to find the right energy sources, negotiate land and use contracts, and can be innovative and aggressive to find a win-win solution. From the energy provider side of the equation, Enel Green Power brought the expertise to educate the buyer as needed (Kohler in this case) and provide guidance in navigating the complex structure of a VPPA. Enel was looking for partners who were willing to get involved in the project, on-site, from the early days. This is because they view it as a long-term relationship that needs cooperative effort on both parts. Interested in becoming a Smart Energy Voices Sponsor Partner? To become a Sponsor Partner of Smart Energy Voices Season 2, please reach out to tim@smartenergydecisions.com for packages, pricing and further details. Connect with Nathan Nissen and Greg Rizzo Follow Nathan Nissen on LinkedIn Nathan Nissen was on the team that developed the first Kohler Co. sustainability strategy in 2007 and has led footprint reporting activities and coordinated footprint reduction activities since then. Nathan previously worked in an environmental leadership role with Kohler's Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) department since 1989. While working in EHS, Nathan's career evolved through hazardous waste management and elimination, emergency response planning, environmental management systems, and industrial waste recycling. Nathan has a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from the University of Minnesota. He is an amateur beekeeper and a licensed Professional Engineer. Follow Greg Rizzo on LinkedIn Greg Rizzo is a Director of Origination within Enel Green Power North America's Commercial Office. Since joining Enel Green Power in 2012, Greg has held many different roles focused on supporting Enel Green Power's commercial strategies. Previous responsibilities included managing existing customer relationships post-PPA execution and developing risk management strategies for the company's REC and power positions. As Enel Green Power began to establish itself as a leader in the North American renewable industry, Greg transitioned to an Origination role supporting the company's vision for growth. In this role, Greg, together with his team, focuses on establishing partnerships with utility and corporate customers to deliver customized sustainable energy solutions. These partnerships are critical in supporting Enel Green Power's aggressive global growth target of adding more than 14 GW of newly built renewable projects over the next three years. Connect With Smart Energy Decisions Smart Energy Decisions Follow them on Facebook Follow them on Twitter Follow them on LinkedIn Subscribe to Smart Energy Voices on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Android, Spotify, Stitcher, TuneIn Radio, aCast, PlayerFM, iHeart Radio
Adapting a global company, the Ryder Cup postponement, running a family business, and the importance of companies being an environmentalist as well as capitalist are all things we talk about on this episode with David Kohler, CEO of the Kohler Company. This podcast was shot live as part of The Milwaukee Rotary Club's Thursday programming.
In today's episode we chat with Ryan Prigge. Ryan is the National Account Manager for the engines division at the Kohler Company. Ryan shares about Kohler engines, the Green Industry, life in Wisconsin, and teases us with some details about a potential second Lawn and Landscape Society event coming up in February of 2021. @kohlerguy1920 1:1 Business Coaching w/ Paul Jamison GIE+EXPO Registation The Hardscape Academy
The Milwaukee Business Journal held the Business of Hospitality event on May 16th. Topics ranges from planning for the 2020 DNC Convention, to how consumers are looking for an experience with their entertainment choices. Reporter Patrick Leary talked with the Keynote speaker for the event, Christine Loose, Vice President at Kohler Company. Later, Patrick talks with fellow MBJ reporters Nick Williams and Sari Lesk about their story on the economic impact of the Milwaukee Bucks’ playoff run. For more information on the stories and headlines featured in today’s episode, visit https://www.bizjournals.com/milwaukee/
In this episode of Frankly Speaking, Frank chats with Chris Zugel, CGCS, golf course superintendent of the Straits course at Whistling Straits in Kohler, WI. Chris relates his experience working both for the Kohler Company and at a famous resort course that has hosted various championship events, including the 2004, 2010 and 2015 PGA Championships and the 2007 U.S. Senior Open. It is also the future site of the 2020 Ryder Cup. The Pete Dye-designed Straits course is stretched along two miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, shares 500 acres of rough with the Irish Course at Whistling Straits, and has over 1000 bunkers on the Straits course alone. Spend some time with Frank and Chris to get a glimpse of managing a high end golf course facility in a challenging location.
The Kohler Company is bring Alexa to the bathroom with their new Verdera voice lighted mirror. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/ecommerceminute/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ecommerceminute/support
Conversation with Lauren Hofland, Senior Corporate Giving Analyst at Kohler Company in Kohler, Wisconsin. This podcast is focused on the wisdom she has gained throughout her life and how she applies that wisdom in her life today. Enjoy!
Conversation with Lauren Hofland, Senior Corporate Giving Analyst at Kohler Company in Kohler, Wisconsin. This podcast is focused on the wisdom she has gained throughout her life and how she applies that wisdom in her life today. Enjoy!
Conversation with Lauren Hofland, Senior Corporate Giving Analyst at Kohler Company in Kohler, Wisconsin. This podcast is focused on the wisdom she has gained throughout her life and how she applies that wisdom in her life today. Enjoy!
Conversation with Lauren Hofland, Senior Corporate Giving Analyst at Kohler Company in Kohler, Wisconsin. This podcast is focused on the wisdom she has gained throughout her life and how she applies that wisdom in her life today. Enjoy!
We discuss the surprising announcement that Rep. Robin Vos is receptive to overhauling WEDC after another awful week for the agency following last week’s announced closure of the Oscar Mayer plant. We recap the flip-flop of the cowardly “Lion of Ripon,” Sen. Luther Olsen, who joined Republicans in ending GAB and gutting campaign finance laws. Robert outlines the key findings from a new Citizen Action report which finds Wisconsinites are paying 47% more for healthcare on the federal marketplaces than Minnesotans. We also review this week’s Fight for $15 rally and march in Milwaukee, Jorna gives us a “Paul Ryan Watch” update, and we discuss a potential strike by more than 2,100 workers at the Kohler Company.
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