Shows
The Purpose HunterFinding Purpose in the Rhythm of Service: How Rich Holly Discovered His Purpose Through Education, Advocacy, and RhythmIn this episode of The Purpose Hunter Podcast, Matt Berrafato sits down with drummer, educator, arts leader, and lifelong advocate Rich Holly to explore how a deep love for music evolved into a life of service, leadership, and lasting impact. Rich shares his journey from performing on stages around the world to shaping generations of students, artists, and artsorganizations through higher education and nonprofit leadership. With humility, wisdom, and plenty of rhythm, Rich reflects on how purpose isn’t something we find once—but something we live out daily by using our gifts in service of ot...
2026-01-2339 min
The Purpose HunterPivoting with Purpose: Rick Cosgrove on Designing Amazing and Joyful Event ExperiencesIn this episode of "The Purpose Hunter," I sit down with Rick Cosgrove, the CXO and President of Agency EA, a global brand experiential marketing agency. As a fellow alum of Notre Dame College Prepin Niles, Illinois, Rick shares his remarkable story of resilience and reinvention. From pivoting out of finance and economics into architecture, to navigating a tough economy as an intern and ultimately discovering his true passion in event marketing, Rick's journey is a testament to the power ofadaptability. He has built and leads his companies by empowering employees to thrive. During...
2025-10-0939 min
The Purpose HunterFrom Setback to Success: Leah Siegel's Journey of Reinvention and Leadership in the Financial WorldJoin us in this captivating episode of "The Purpose Hunter" as we delve into the extraordinary journey of Leah Siegel—a woman who transformed life's challenges into opportunities for growth and empowerment. From the comforts of a $2 million home to theunexpected role of a single mother and breadwinner, Leah's story is a testament to resilience and reinvention. Discover how Leah transitioned from being a stay-at-home mom to a powerhouse in the financial industry, driven by herunwavering determination, trust, and ambition. As a highly sought-after speaker and mentor, Leah has educated countless families, helping them to...
2025-06-1833 min
The Purpose Hunter"No Excuses: Finding Purpose and Success with Brian 'The Quadfather' Swift"In this compelling episode, we sit down with Brian P. Swift, JD, renowned as "The Quadfather." Brian is a John Maxwell personal development coach, speaker, best-selling author, and radio personality, whose journey is a testament to resilience and purpose. At the young age of 17, a life-altering football accident left Brian learning to live fully from a wheelchair as a quadriplegic. Yet, through confidence, grit,compassion, and humor, he has transformed his challenges into opportunities.Join us as Brian shares his incredible journey of overcoming adversity to achieve success in both his personal andprofessional life...
2025-04-1541 min
The Purpose HunterThe 4 Phases of Retirement: Discovering Purpose with Riley Moynes, Author & TEDx SpeakerDr. Moynes has enjoyed a distinguished career spanning four decades in both public and private sectors.
During a twenty-year career in the public sector, he taught at the elementary, secondary and post-secondary level, served as a Department Head, a Superintendent and finally as Director of Education, where he was responsible for the operation of 10 secondary schools, 40 elementary schools, and a staff of 1,500.
During a subsequent 20-year career in the private sector, he founded one private wealth management company, was a
Partner and Director of another, and a Founding Partner of Assante Wealth Management, a national...
2025-01-1641 min
The Purpose HunterFrom Anthem to Inspiration: Wayne Messmer's Journey to PurposeJoin Matt Berrafato, the Purpose Hunter, as he embarks on a captivating conversation with the legendary Wayne Messmer. Dive into the remarkable life of the voice renowned as "Chicago’s Original Voice of the National Anthem." From an unexpected moment at a college hockey game to his iconic performances with the Chicago Blackhawks, Cubs, Wolves, and more, discover how Wayne's ability to seize opportunities sculpted his extraordinary career.
In this heartfelt interview, Wayne shares personal stories of resilience, including his triumphant return after overcoming a life-threatening adversity. His message of hope and forgiveness resonates through his passionate in...
2024-12-034h 10
The Purpose HunterLeading with Passion: John Cashman's Transformation from Teacher to Sales Strategy EntrepreneurJoin us on this inspiring episode as we delve into the transformative journey of John Cashman. Growing up in a bustling Irish Catholic family with seven siblings in Morton Grove, Illinois, John and I were classmates at Notre Dame High School in Niles, Illinois.
His initial path led him to Western Illinois University to major in corrections and alternative education with dreams of teaching. However, fate had other plans, guiding him to a master’s degree in business and an illustrious career in sales.
John learned about the importance of strong fami...
2024-09-2029 minThe Purpose HunterThe Business of Media and Beyond: Burt Levy's Success Journey from Media to Technology to ConsultingJoin us in this captivating episode as we delve into the remarkable career of Burt Levy, who spent 22 years at the
Chicago Sun-Times newspaper, overseeing the motion pictures category.
Burt worked alongside film critic Roger Ebert and collaborated closely with major studios such as DreamWorks, Paramount, and Warner Bros.
He culminated his media career as the publisher of North Shore Magazine.
Burt shares his profound insights on organizational culture and the invaluable wisdom of long-serving employees.
Transitioning from media...
2024-08-2934 min
Emotional Intelligence: Your Greatest Asset and Key to SuccessEmotional Intelligence and The Purpose-Driven LifeI'd love to hear from you!What if the key to a fulfilling life was hidden in the activities that make you lose track of time? Join Matt Berrafato and me as we uncover the transformative power of aligning your gifts, passions, and the people you can serve. From Matt's early days as a hockey goalie inspired by Tony Esposito to his current role as a renowned author and purpose hunter coach, Matt shares his journey and wisdom on how to connect deeply with your purpose. Drawing lessons from Eckhart Tolle's "The Power of Now," we explore...
2024-08-0934 minThe Purpose HunterFrom Broken Beginnings to Purposeful Success: Steve Luckenbach on "The Art of Why"In this episode of The Purpose Hunter, we dive deep into the inspiring journey of Steve Luckenbach.
From overcoming a challenging upbringing to rising to prominence in sales and professional speaking, Steve's story is a testament to resilience, purpose, and the power of understanding one's "Why".
At the age of 35, Steve found personal fulfillment with the joys of his own family, a milestone he had long aspired to
achieve.
With over 17 years of professional speaking experience, Steve has authored books and captivated audiences with...
2024-07-2428 minThe Purpose HunterFrom Small Town Beginnings to Entrepreneurial Success: Kent Jones' Journey to Creating 216 The Net and Empowering Youth Through BasketballIn this episode, we delve into the captivating story of Kent Jones, a devoted family man, accomplished entrepreneur, and enthusiastic basketball coach. Originally from a small town near Lansing, Michigan, Kent shares his experiences of growing up as one of four boys, establishing a loving family, and pursuing a career in banking and mortgage brokerage.
As the visionary behind 216 Creator Studios and the Internet radio station 216 The Net, Kent has made a significant impact in the media industry through his entrepreneurial ventures. Despite his success in business, Kent's true passion lies in coaching basketball and guiding young...
2024-06-1226 minThe Purpose HunterLeading with Empathy: Mark Vincent's Journey from Organizational Development Expert to Compassionate Executive AdvisorIn this episode, we explore the profound story of Mark Vincent, a seasoned organizational development expert with over 30 years of experience in guiding organizations and their leadership towards unprecedented growth.
As an executive advisor specializing in succession process consulting, Mark has dedicated his career to helping companies thrive through effective leadership strategies.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mark's personal journey has been marked by profound loss and resilience. After being married for 32 years, his first wife battled 19 separate occurrences of cancer for 16 years before tragically losing her life to the disease. This
heartbreaking experience has deeply...
2024-04-1126 minThe Purpose HunterFrom Construction worker to Real Estate Developer: The Unstoppable Journey of Dru Wischhover - A Tale of Entrepreneurship, Baseball, and Finding Life's PurposeIn this inspiring episode, we sit down with Dru Wischhover, a man who started his journey in the construction trades right out of school.
Dru's entrepreneurial spirit quickly shone through, leading him to establish his own Title Company, which eventually evolved into a successful real estate development/title company.
But Dru's story isn't just about business success. Throughout his journey, a love for baseball remained a constant thread, guiding him towards his life's purpose.
Join us as we delve into Dru's remarkable journey, exploring the intersections of entrepreneurship, personal passion, and the pursuit...
2024-03-0824 minThe Purpose HunterUnveiling the Power of Remembering: Discovering Your Purpose with Fred Beuttler the former Deputy Historian of the House of RepresentativesIn this enlightening episode, we're honored to host Fred Beuttler former Deputy Historian of the House of Representatives in Washington, D.C. Join us as we unravel the fascinating career of Fred, a distinguished college professor, and researcher, whose expertise has left an indelible mark on the understanding of our nation's past. In our conversation he challenges you to take an introspective look at your own life that can give you clues as to why you are on this planet, what is your purpose for being?
With a wealth of experience, Fred not only...
2024-01-3030 min
TOP5_DefinedTalentTop5 Ways to Find your PurposeToday we are hunting for elephants with The Purpose Hunter, Matthew Berrafato! Joining Tara for an amazing conversation, Matthew showcases his Top5 Ways to Find Your Purpose. Tune in as he asks important questions and answers we should all a ourselves as we find our true purpose.1. Explore your gifts2. What are you passionate about?3. Determine who you can serve with your gifts and your passion4. Legacy - Who taught you your greatest lessons?5. Try a different combination of steps 1, 2 & 3 and don’t stop trying!The Purpose Hunter podcast: https://op...
2024-01-2237 minThe Purpose HunterStepping Stones from Boilermaker Roots to Healing Feet: Dr. George Quill's journey from Notre Dame High School to Orthopedic MaestroIn this episode of The Purpose Hunter podcast, join me for a heartfelt conversation with Dr. George Quill, my longtime friend and Notre Dame High School classmate.
Growing up as the eldest of four boys in the north suburbs of Chicago, George's story unfolds within the backdrop of a loving Catholic family deeply connected to a four-generation boilermaker business.
We explore George's transformative journey from middle-class roots and formative years at Notre Dame High School to his academic pursuits at the University of Notre Dame and Northwestern University Medical...
2024-01-0428 minThe Purpose HunterUnleashing the Extraordinary: A Conversation with Caden Vittorini, the Young Phenom Redefining SuccessIn this inspiring podcast interview, we explore the incredible journey of Caden Vittorini, a young man who has achieved remarkable success at just 20 years old. From excelling in academics and sports to appearing on America's Got Talent and becoming a certified life coach for teens, Caden's accomplishments are truly extraordinary.
As the CEO of Vitt Factor, a leadership company he founded for young entrepreneurs, he is making a significant impact in the business world.
Join us as we uncover the secrets behind his success and gain valuable insights from...
2023-11-2824 min
216 Creator Studios2 Bald Guys... Purpose Hunting with Author Matt Berrafato (Part 2)Today, Purpose Hunting with Author Matt Berrafato (Part 2)
Two Bald Guys and a Microphone is a show designed to bring people into the fullness of who they are so they can accomplish what they are called to do. Truly we are two normal guys who want to help people change when they don't know they need to change. Stick around for some fun and edutainment and perhaps learn a thing or two before the episode ends...~ https://216thenet.com ~ 216thenet@gmail.com ~ ASCAP License 400007852 ~
#edutainment #2bald #coachpapa #deekjones #inspiration #motivation #216thenet #216creatorstudios #dailydoseofencoragement
2023-11-261h 06216 Creator Studios2 Bald Guys and a Microphone... Purpose Hunting with Author Matt Berrafato
Today, Purpose Hunting with Author Matt Berrafato Two Bald Guys and a Microphone is a show designed to bring people into the fullness of who they are so they can accomplish what they are called to do. Truly we are two normal guys who want to help people change when they don't know they need to change. Stick around for some fun and edutainment and perhaps learn a thing or two before the episode ends..
.~ https://216thenet.com ~ 216thenet@gmail.com ~ ASCAP License 400007852 ~
#edutainment #2bald #coachpapa #deekjones #inspiration #motivation #216thenet #216creatorstudios #dailydoseofencoragement
2023-11-151h 02The Purpose HunterFrom a Tight-Knit Irish Catholic Family on Chicago's North Side to Successful Corporate Executive Coach: Marty Griffin's Journey in LeadershipJoin Marty Griffin in this podcast episode as he shares his life journey, from growing up in a middle-class Irish Catholic family on Chicago's north side to achieving a successful corporate career.
After graduating from Notre Dame high school in Niles, Illinois, and an undergrad degree from Marquette University, Marty taught high school and coached wrestling before gaining his MBA and embarking on a 30-year corporate career in executive leadership roles in distribution and sales.
With a deep passion for building effective leadership teams, Marty transitioned into entrepreneurship, founding his own executive coaching company to...
2023-10-1825 min
Morning AirMuslim-Jewish Hostility/ Purpose Hunting10/16/23 7am CT Hour - Roy Schoeman/ Matt Berrafato John, Glen and Sarah chat about Israel, Speaker of the House, baseball and Family Rosary Across America. Roy breaks down where the hostility between Israel and Palestine is within the land and religions and the history of their relationships in that region. Matt gives direction for those who are searching for meaning or purpose in life. https://www.elephanthunting.net/blog/ https://www.amazon.com/Purpose-Hunting-Navigating-Your-Fulfilled-ebook/dp/B0CJ629W43
2023-10-1650 min
Go4CeoThe Purpose Hunter, codifying the way you look at Purpose in your Life
The Purpose Hunter, codifying the way you look at Purpose in your Life.Matt Berrafato The author of the book "Elephant Hunting" published by Hunter Press. His latest project is his new book "The Elephant Philosophy – Find Your Purpose" which is scheduled for release later this year. This important work will offer individuals a step-by-step process to find their purpose in life. He has consulted nationally with sales organizations as well as individuals as a life coach in the areas of goal setting and time and life management.Matt is the host of The Purpose Hunter podcast ava...
2023-09-2144 minThe Purpose HunterFrom Small-Town Values to Financial Success: Tyler Braun's JourneyIn this inspiring episode, we sit down with Tyler Braun, a remarkable individual who hails from a tight-knit community in Wisconsin. Raised with strong Midwestern values by his loving parents, Tyler's journey took him from his small-town roots to earning a college degree in entrepreneurship and finance at the University of Wisconsin Whitewater.
Join us as Tyler shares his story of stepping into the world of finance and landing his first job with The Tranel Financial Group. Discover how he transformed from a fresh graduate into a successful financial advisor, and now, the dedicated team lead responsible...
2023-09-1529 minThe Purpose HunterUnveiling Purpose: A Candid Conversation with Matt Berrafato - From Hockey Goalie to Purpose HunterIn this captivating episode of "The Purpose Hunter" podcast, guest host Kristin Tews takes the reins and interviews Matt Berrafato, a seasoned health insurance broker, professional speaker, author, and coach. With 41 years of experience serving clients in the insurance industry, Matt shares his inspiring journey of finding his purpose and how he now helps others do the same. After retiring from the health insurance business, Matt now dedicates his time to coaching individuals one-on-one, guiding them on their own path to discovering their life's purpose.
Join us as we uncover the transformative moments and strategies that led Matt to...
2023-08-2426 minThe Purpose HunterBlake Fisher going from Rock 'n' Roll Front Man to Aerospace Engineer: A Journey of Innovation and ExplorationIn this captivating podcast episode, join us as we sit down with Blake Fisher, a true Renaissance man with a remarkable life journey. Hailing from a quaint town in Southeast Missouri, Blake's love for music led him to become the lead guitarist for a popular Midwest rock group during his college years at St. Louis University, where he majored in aerospace
engineering. After graduation, Blake's dreams of exploring the cosmos came to life when he landed his first job at NASA in Houston, working on the cutting-edge International Space Station program. But the adventure didn't end there. Following a...
2023-08-0227 minThe Purpose HunterUnleashing the Entrepreneur Within: Barry Saltzman's Journey from NYC Corporate Executive to a change agent Empowering Small BusinessesJoin us in this inspiring podcast episode featuring Barry Saltzman, a native New Yorker who spent 38 years in the city. Initially planning to follow in his father's footsteps as a CPA, Barry's journey took an unexpected turn when he switched from accounting to computer science during college. With a 12-year stint at a billion-dollar IT company, Barry gained valuable insights into successful corporate operations. However, in 1999, he was recruited to Chicago for a leadership role, which eventually led him to leave big corporate America 18 years ago and establish his own boutique consulting and coaching business. Tune in as Barry...
2023-07-1425 minThe Purpose HunterFrom Farm to Finance: Roch Tranel's Journey to Building The Tranel Financial GroupIn this captivating episode, we delve into the inspiring life story of Roch Tranel, a self-made entrepreneur who overcame humble beginnings on a small farm in Monroe, Wisconsin, to establish The Tranel Financial Group, a highly successful wealth management firm. Join us as we explore the pivotal moments and experiences that shaped Roch's path, from his early struggles to his eventual triumphs.
Roch's story begins with his pursuit of education at the University of Wisconsin Whitewater, where he studied sociology with a minor in business. Little did he know that his academic journey would set the stage...
2023-06-2724 minThe Purpose HunterFrom Banking to Broadcasting: Unleashing Entrepreneurial Success with Kristin TewsIn this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Kristin Tews, a remarkable entrepreneur and media personality, as she shares her experiences growing up in Morton Grove, a vibrant suburb of Chicago. Kristin's entrepreneurial spirit was ignited at an early age through her father's restaurant business, laying the foundation for her future endeavors.
After completing college, Kristin embarked on a successful career in the banking industry. Drawing upon her expertise, she worked closely with banking clients, guiding and supporting them in scaling their businesses. Along the way, she discovered a passion for connecting with communities, particularly...
2023-06-1328 minThe Purpose HunterUniting Entrepreneurs: Chris Johnson on Building a Thriving NetworkIn this captivating episode of our podcast, we sit down with Chris Johnson, a down-to-earth Midwesterner and an all-around good guy, hailing from Bloomington, Indiana. Chris shares his inspiring journey and the pivotal role his father played as his idol and mentor. Growing up, Chris and his father bonded over their shared passion for basketball, spending countless hours watching high school and college games together. It was through this relationship that Chris learned invaluable lessons about success in life.
With a career spanning over 15 years in sales and marketing, Chris initially found his calling in the health...
2023-06-0126 minThe Purpose HunterFrom Chicago to Uganda: A Life of Service and Motivation. Meet Deacon Don Grossnickle as he tells his amazing purpose journey of self-discovery.In this inspiring episode of our podcast, we have the pleasure of hosting a remarkable individual, Deacon Don Grossnickle, whose lifelong commitment to service and motivation has touched countless lives. Join us as we delve into the incredible journey of a man who, at the age of 74 and married for over 50 years, continues to make a profound difference in the world.
Born and raised in the vibrant city of Chicago, Deacon Don Grossnickle's early life experiences shaped his passion for education and helping others. After pursuing an advanced degree in biology, he dedicated himself to teaching high...
2023-05-2328 minThe Purpose HunterUnearthing Life's Purpose: From a close-knit Italian family in the Chicago suburbs to Mayor of Morton Grove Illinois - Dan DiMaria's Extraordinary JourneyIn this captivating episode of our podcast, we delve into the incredible journey of Dan DiMaria, a remarkable individual who embarked on an inspiring quest to discover his life's purpose. Join us as we trace Dan's path from his humble beginnings in Niles, Illinois, through his formative years at Notre Dame High School and the University of Dayton, where he pursued a major in political science.
After graduating from college, Dan's destiny seemed intertwined with the family construction business, where he initially found himself. However, a fervent passion for the financial world beckoned him to the vibrant...
2023-05-1626 minThe Purpose HunterKip Pendleton – A farm boy’s life journey from the farm to hockey goalie to executive leadership coach helping leaders in agriculture feed the world.In this podcast episode, we sit down with Kip Pendleton, a former farm boy from Southern Illinois who has had a remarkable journey in his career. Kip shares his story of how he went from being a hockey goalie to becoming an executive and leadership coach with a focus on mergers and acquisitions in the agriculture industry. With his extensive experience, Kip has been instrumental in helping agricultural leaders navigate the complex world of mergers and acquisitions to ensure that they are able to feed the world sustainably.
Throughout the episode, Kip shares insights and lessons on f...
2023-05-0926 minThe Purpose HunterSaul Ruiz – A young man's fascinating journey from a first generation Hispanic family from Mexico to a thriving professional career in the financial services industry here in the United States.How does a young person growing up here in the United States find the internal fortitude to persevere against all odds and become a successful financial services advisor? During this interview you will learn how to push the envelope on challenging topics as a way to build solid relationships both personally and professionally. It is not often that I meet a young person that is not afraid to go deep in the area of life purpose even when he may not have all the answers.
saul.ruiz@welafinancial.com
Music:
S...
2023-05-0227 minThe Purpose HunterTim Stewart (a.k.a. Coach Papa) – An amazing life journey that began serving our nation and continues today by coaching people to make a real difference in their lives.Find out how a Nebraska farm boy ends up traveling the world serving his country as a U.S. Army veteran on the way to becoming a successful financial advisor, motivational speaker, author, coach and faith filled servant. You don't want to miss this episode that highlights a powerful conversation guaranteed to drop a handful of ideas that will shine a light on ways to help you find your purpose.
Email
tim@coachpapa.com
Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/CoachPapaTim
LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachpapa/...
2023-04-2625 minThe Purpose HunterMark J. Carter – A circuitous journey from a marketing specialist and event planning/networking guru to author and much sought after business/mentor interview host.Have you ever had an idea, a big idea? Did your big idea become a reality, or did it never quite get off the ground? For anyone who has ever had a great idea and nothing happened, you don't want to miss this episode where I talk with author Mark J Carter the author of Idea Climbing. I am confident that by the end of this conversation you will have a handful of ideas that you can use in your own life that will help you find your purpose!
https://www.markjcarter.com/
2023-04-2426 minThe Purpose HunterAlan Stern – The unique path from successful salesperson to internet marketing entrepreneur, author and speaker.Find out what was the motivating drive behind why a young and successful salesperson in business would want to become an
Internet marketing guru and entrepreneur. His journey offers valuable insights for contemplating the questions necessary to make wise life altering decisions
about your purpose in life.
https://www.facebook.com/thealanstern
https://www.instagram.com/alan_stern27/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-stern-b581b126/
https://ultimateusedcarcheatsheet.phonesites.com/
Music:
Song: Why I'm Here
CD Title: Grandpa's Guitar
A...
2023-04-2123 minThe Purpose HunterBill Ulivieri – From a runner at the board of trade in Chicago to crypto currency expert.
Hear the interesting life lessons from financial professional and author Bill Ulivieri in his search for
his purpose for being. This interview will provide you with clues that you can
use to help you on your purpose hunting journey. Check out Bill's book on
Amazon
https://amzn.to/3mcDUhU
Music:
Song: Why I'm Here
CD Title: Grandpa's Guitar
Artist: Blake Fisher
Written and Produced by Blake Fisher
2023-04-1923 minThe Purpose HunterShay Boyle – The journey from a high-powered business sales consultant to President of the largest all boys Catholic high school in Illinois, Notre Dame College Prep.Find out what causes a successful business sales consultant to change the direction
of his life completely to follow his calling. This interview inspires all of us
to have the courage to reach for our dreams that are connected directly to our
purpose in life.
https://www.nddons.org/s/1034/bp22/home.aspx
sboyle@ndhsdons.org
Music:
Song: Why I'm Here
CD Title: Grandpa's Guitar
Artist: Blake Fisher
Written and Produced by Blake Fisher
2023-04-1526 min
The Blockchain Advisor ™6. How to Pay for Long Term Care Insurance using your IRA or 401KEverything you need to know about Long Term Care insurance with specialist Ron Cohen. Author Matt Berrafato shares his LTC experience.
2019-10-0316 min
The Blockchain Advisor ™1. Aging in Place, Power of Attorney, Home Senior Care"The Final Third of Life": Glenview residents Matt Berrafato, Bill Ulivieri & Charmaine Conaghan discuss the final stages of life, from the perspective of our business and family life. Please reach out to us with questions! Topics to include passion vs. purpose, regret, senior care, dementia, retirement income, social security, aging in place, and much more! Please Like & Share.
2019-09-2714 min