Shows
Kansas City Business Cast#55 – Have You Worn Enough Clown Make-up Yet? – Michael Risinger, VAS LLC & KCBCIn this episode, Michael Risinger discusses the concept of 'clown makeup' in the context of business and personal growth. He shares personal stories of cringe-worthy moments in his career, emphasizing the importance of embracing failure and learning from mistakes. The conversation highlights the value of feedback, the necessity of stepping out of comfort zones, and the significance of maintaining a childlike curiosity in pursuing new endeavors. Michael encourages listeners to engage with their own experiences of cringe and growth, fostering a community of support and improvement.Takeaways• Embrace cringe-worthy moments as opportunities fo...2025-05-0617 min
Kansas City Business Cast#54 – Reflections From an 8 lbs 6 oz Baby Podcaster – Michael Risinger, VAS LLC & KCBCOur first full-length solo episode and season 5 finale all at once!In this episode, Michael Risinger reflects on the journey of the Kansas City Business Cast, celebrating milestones, acknowledging sponsors, and sharing personal insights. He discusses the challenges and rewards of podcasting, the importance of community support, and the connections made through the show. Michael emphasizes the value of vulnerability and authenticity in storytelling, while also looking ahead to the future of the podcast and inviting listener feedback.Takeaways• Michael expresses gratitude for the Kansas City People's Choice Awards nomination....2025-04-2933 min
Kansas City Business Cast#53 – Building the Guild – Justin Ricklefs, Guild CollectiveIn this engaging conversation, Michael Risinger interviews Justin Ricklefs, Founder & CEO of Guild Collective, a creative branding agency located in Liberty, Missouri.They explore themes of leadership, company culture, and the importance of giving a damn in business. Justin shares insights on the interior work (he refers to as interiority) required for effective leadership, the significance of building a values-driven business, and the role of feedback in fostering a healthy company culture. He emphasizes the need for businesses to focus on meaningful client relationships and the impact of community...2025-04-221h 14
Kansas City Business Cast#52 – Making Varsity in Kansas City – Brad Chandler, Made By Varsity & Making Varsity PodcastNew to Kansas City and excited to serve here, Brad is a former pastor turned entrepreneur and podcaster. Michael and Brad discuss his journey from ministry to the world of podcasting, the importance of unlocking the voice of business owners, and the power of podcasting as a tool for business growth. Brad shares insights on innovative podcasting approaches and the tension of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the significance of creativity and community in achieving success. They also discuss the challenges of networking in a new city. Brad shared his experiences of building relationships through local coffee shops...2025-04-161h 20
Kansas City Business Cast#51 – First, Do Know Harm – James Regina, Stay Ready Performance & RecoveryIn this episode of Kansas City Business Cast, host Michael Risinger welcomes James Regina, a pro MMA fighter and owner of Stay Ready Performance & Recovery, a facial stretch therapy service. They discuss James's journey from being overweight to becoming a professional fighter, the duality of being capable of hurting and healing people, and the importance of emotional intelligence in relationships.James shares insights on fascial therapy and its role in recovery. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of communication in relationships and the role of men in creating a safe space for their partners.2025-04-081h 05
Kansas City Business Cast#50 – The People’s Champ – Johnathan Little, I-70 PodcastIn this episode, Michael Risinger has good friend and Kansas City podcasting peer Johnathan “John John” Little on the show. He has been called “The People’s Champ” for good reason!They celebrate the milestone of 100 episodes of John John’s show, I-70 Podcast, which is part of the No Solutions Productions Network. They discuss the challenges and trials faced in the podcasting journey, emphasizing resilience, ownership, and the importance of community. John John shares his experiences of overcoming adversity, finding joy in podcasting, and the significance of connecting with diverse guests. They explore themes of authentic...2025-04-011h 13
Kansas City Business Cast#49 – Change the Vocab – Cole Griggs, Griggs Mortgage GroupIn this episode, Michael Risinger interviews Cole Griggs from Griggs Mortgage Group, exploring his journey into the mortgage industry, the importance of building relationships, and overcoming challenges such as age bias. Cole shares insights on authenticity, work-life balance, and strategies for success, emphasizing the power of introductions and networking in business.Cole is one of KCBC’s earliest and longest lasting supporters of this show. He literally has listened to all but a couple of our episodes and has been a verbal supporter and advocate sing the beginning. We are so honored to have hi...2025-03-251h 08
Kansas City Business Cast#48 – Luck by Design – Adam Tank, CCO of Transcend SoftwareAdam Tank is a sustainability-driven entrepreneur, author of “Luck by Design,” and public speaker whose career has spanned leadership roles in Fortune 100 companies, international small businesses, and venture capital-backed technology startups. He currently serves as the Co-Founder & Chief Communications Officer of Transcend, a generative design startup that enables capital planners, project developers, and engineering professionals to rapidly generate preliminary engineering designs for critical infrastructure, including a variety of water and power assets.Adam is an engaging speaker who has been on stage at over 60 events, entertaining over 20,000 people. He is a sought-after presenter and coac...2025-03-1851 min
Kansas City Business Cast#47 – Engineer Your Target Condition – Mitchell Thompson, Author & CEO, Combat Cardio KC & Self Sustained TrainingThis is our 4th Kansas City Fitness Cast talk here on KCBC. Are humans like skyscrapers or more like bridges?In this episode of Kansas City Business Cast, host Michael Risinger interviews Mitchell Thompson, an author, CEO, scholar, & fitness expert who shares his journey with Crohn's disease and how it has galvanized his approach to health and wellness. They discuss the importance of individualized health plans, the role of children's books in health education, and the innovative concept of Combat Cardio. Mitchell emphasizes the significance of living in truth...2025-03-111h 20
Kansas City Business Cast#46 - The Podfather of Kansas City – Esai Moreno, No Solutions Productions (NSPN)Kicking off season 5 correctly with The Podfather of Kansas City!In this episode of Kansas City Business Cast, host Michael Risinger welcomes Esai Moreno from No Solutions Productions, a podcast & media production company based in Kansas City. They discuss the evolution of Esai's business, the podcast network, the challenges faced in the industry, and the importance of community support. Esai shares insights on balancing work and family life, his future aspirations in the film and TV industry, and reflections on fatherhood. They discuss unconventional work hours, the benefits of homeschooling, and how to...2025-03-041h 10
Kansas City Business Cast#45 – Get Huge! – John Ott, Yep! StrengthIn this conversation, Michael Risinger interviews John Ott, the founder of Yep! Strength and new partner of Hardwear Clothing LLC, discussing his journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship in the supplement industry. They explore the importance of building a strong team, and the challenges of maintaining quality control in supplement manufacturing. John shares insights on navigating competition, the role of Amazon in business strategy, and the lessons learned from selling on the platform. In this conversation, John Ott discusses the complexities of selling products on Amazon, emphasizing the importance of quality control in manufacturing, particularly in the...2025-02-181h 20
Kansas City Business Cast#44 – Build the Plane as it Flies – Steven Ross, Renovating KCIn this engaging conversation, Michael Risinger interviews Steven Ross, a founder of Renovating KC Design + Remodel. They discuss Steven's journey from a challenging school experience to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the Kansas City business community. The conversation delves into the importance of faith in business, the dynamics of leadership, and the growth of Renovating KC, which has seen remarkable success in just a few years.Steven shares insights on teamwork, the visionary-integrator dynamic, and the significance of creating a positive work environment. In this conversation, Steven Ross shares insights on learning styles, team building, and the...2025-02-111h 21
Kansas City Business Cast#43 - Stand Firm With Business Owners – Phil McDowell, Armor MarketingThis is Phil McDowell’s second appearance on KCBC!In this engaging conversation, Phil and Michael Risinger discuss the evolution of Armor Marketing, the challenges faced in the business landscape, and the importance of authenticity in marketing. They share personal anecdotes about their journey, the impact of faith in their work, and how empowering others through video content can lead to growth and success. The discussion emphasizes the significance of standing firm in the face of challenges and the transformative power of collaboration and community. In this conversation, they explore the evolving landscape of...2025-02-041h 23
Kansas City Business Cast#42 – Healthy Families = Healthy Communities – Shelia Johnson, Gangsta Goodies KitchenIn this episode of Kansas City Business Cast, host Michael Risinger interviews Shelia Johnson, the passionate host, producer, and creator of Gangsta Goodies Kitchen, a YouTube show that features local artists, politicians, leaders, and business owners in Kansas City. The show is 8 seasons strong!
Shelia shares her inspiring journey from being a teenage mom to becoming a successful entrepreneur and community leader. She discusses the importance of education, the challenges she faced, and how her diverse career path has shaped her current role.
The conversation delves into the significance of community impact, the genesis of...2025-01-281h 31
Kansas City Business Cast#41 – Take up Space! – Tiana Thompson, Train With Tee LLC & Combat Cardio KCTiana Thompson is the Founder of Train with Tee LLC and Chief Operating Officer of Combat Cardio KC.
In this conversation, Michael and Tiana explore her journey from a people-pleasing athlete to a confident trainer who emphasizes the importance of mental health in fitness. Tiana shares her insights on empowerment through combat training, the significance of identity, and the challenges of navigating personal struggles.
The discussion also highlights the holistic approach Tiana takes with her clients, focusing on emotional well-being alongside physical fitness, and the value of personal experience in coaching. She shares her journey...2025-01-211h 22
Kansas City Business Cast#40 – Two Dudes Having a Conversation – Gabriel Garcia, To Bring About PodcastGabriel Garcia is amongst the most consistent and interesting podcasters in the Kansas City area. Founder and host of To Bring About Podcast, Gabriel will talk to anyone local, about anything, and any time. He has made a reputation for creating meaningful longform discussions with the people in our region doing incredible things. He has also appeared on several notable local podcasts in the Kansas City region as a guest.
Gabriel is a warrior poet or renaissance man, of sorts. He is a cerebral conversationalist, husband, father, jiu jitsu practitioner, motorcyclist, hunter, creator, libertarian, and a true...2025-01-142h 04
Kansas City Business Cast#39 – Motherhood in America - Stephanie Risinger LCMFT, Motherhood in America PodcastIn this episode of Kansas City Business Cast, Michael welcomes Stephanie Risinger, LCMFT back to the show to discuss her journey in motherhood as a mental health professional and the launch of her new podcast, Motherhood in America.
They explore the challenges and realities of motherhood, the importance of community support, and the need for open discussions about the challenges and solutions for American Mothers.
Stephanie shares her insights on managing expectations as a mother and the role of faith in her life. The conversation emphasizes the importance of education in perinatal mental health and...2025-01-0550 min
Kansas City Business Cast#38 – Health is the First Wealth – Caleb Blankenship, Body Shop Gym & Blank Slate FitnessThis is the season 3 finale, last episode of 2024, and the first “KCFC” episode. From here forward, all episodes that feature professionals in health & wellness fields will have the special Kansas City Fitness Cast stamp as pictured in the cover art for this episode.
Caleb Blankenship is a KC local that runs Body Shop Gym, which has 2 locations, as well as his fitness coaching business, Blank Slate Fitness. His story is well-documented on other local podcasts, so we covered some new territory in this conversation.
In this conversation, Michael & Caleb discuss the importance of physical health in b...2024-12-101h 38
Kansas City Business Cast#37 – Leadership in All Things – Matt Nixon, CLF LUTCF - Trusted RoofingMatt Nixon has over two decades of experience building teams in various industries. Whether he was working as a manager, director, or executive, he has always led by example and it shows when you hear him speak about his experience and leadership approach.
Known for his sharp business acumen, witty sense of humor, people skills, and passion for serving others, he is currently the Director of Operations & Sales at Trusted Roofing, a company known for its outstanding customer service and quality with 30 years of KC roofing experience.
We discuss...2024-12-031h 00
Kansas City Business Cast#36 – Do it Afraid – Clarisa Evans, Out of Eden MidwiferyClarisa Evans is a California native who relocated to Kansas City and has launched her own midwifery practice, called Out of Eden Midwifery.
In this conversation, we discussed her origin story, the legacy of midwifery passed on from her grandmother, and her new initiative, Kira's Voice, which is aimed at supporting teen mothers through pregnancy, childbirth, and their postpartum journeys through mentorship and community resources.
The Kira’s Voice program provides a safe space for young mothers, offering them access to lactation consultants, tutors, and a supportive community. Learn more by listening to this episode and then referencing Clarisa’s cont...2024-11-1949 min
Kansas City Business Cast#35 – The Security Industry’s Renaissance Man – Baer Halvorson, Security Today PodcastBaer Halvorson is the founder, producer, editor, & creative genius fueling the Security Today Podcast. This is a conversation that will cement itself in the KCBC hall of fame!
Whether you are a security aficionado or complete noob, you will find invaluable insights in this episode.
We discussed trends in the physical & cyber security industries, the fine line between personal privacy & public security, humanity’s need for more contact with nature, the “black picket fence,” how to start & run a successful podcast, converting your home into a “hard target,” theories from criminology, and how boundaries can enable you...2024-11-121h 19
Kansas City Business Cast#34 – Creating the Literacy Evolution – Becca Pratt, Literacy EvolutionBecca Pratt joins us to talk about the impacts of illiteracy and how she partners with parents to help their kids accelerate in their reading journey. This is a great talk, especially for parents navigating literacy challenges with their kids!
As a teacher with 12 years of experience, she has devoted her professional life to exploring evidence-based approaches for teaching students to read. Over the years, she has successfully guided hundreds of kids (and their parents) through these methods, witnessing the transformation of their reading abilities!
At Literacy Evolution LLC, she is creating a nurturing space...2024-11-0559 min
Kansas City Business Cast#33 – The B2B Marketing Revolution – Heather Snyder, ProMode.aiKCBC season 1 veteran Heather Snyder returns to the show to talk about her new, revolutionary AI-powered marketing company, ProMode.ai!
Heather's experience working with hundreds of B2B companies as Director of Strategy at a digital marketing agency makes her uniquely equipped to know what great B2B marketing is made of and how the marketing agency model is broken. High turnover in agencies, antiquated pricing models and mediocre deliverables drove Heather to seek out a partner to build a better way to serve B2B businesses.
As a career salesperson and strategist, Heather understands...2024-10-291h 06
Kansas City Business Cast#32 – Don’t Stop Believin’ – Emily Linhardt, Silverstone BookkeepingEmily Linhardt, Owner of Silverstone Bookkeeping provides monthly bookkeeping solutions for individuals and businesses. An early supporter of the show, and bookkeeping provider for several small businesses we know personally in the KC metro, Emily is an absolute pro. She is also very candid about her experience and the experience of newer smaller businesses in our area.
Her professionalism, transparent style of communication, and genuine drive to help business owners in her community succeed makes her one to definitely follow and support in Kansas City. During this conversation, we discussed her origin story, the importance of being...2024-10-221h 01
Kansas City Business Cast#31 – Aligned Design = Peace of Mind – Emily Franchett, ENF’s Design StudioA good friend and long-time supporter of the show, Emily Franchett, runs ENF’s Design Studio, an interior design consultancy here in the Kansas City metro. She will get you thinking about things in a new way. She will also challenge you to re-think your approach to designing, decorating, and arranging your own home! We have personally witnessed the result of her work and heard testimonials from her clients. She is the real deal.An artist by trade, a stylist by nature, she cultivates creativity in partnerships with her clients. Whether you are thinking ab...2024-09-171h 05
Kansas City Business Cast#30 – Bees as Business Partners – William Fondren II, Hive and Harvest KCWilliam Fondren II is a husband, father, US military veteran, beekeeper, & business owner here in the Kansas City region. A longtime supporter of the show and someone we’ve sought to bring on since we started this whole thing, we are very proud of how this conversation turned out!
What started as a fascination with bees has now become a business with bees as his business partners. Learn about how he found his first home for the bees while the hive was on the way, the challenges that come with beekeeping, the fascinating facts ab...2024-09-101h 16
Kansas City Business Cast#29 - The Most Joy - Megan Colwell, Pyrographer & Director of Design, Happi Camper KC & Fun Love MediaShe’s got jokes, a potty mouth, and a heart of gold! Megan Colwell’s approach to niching down on pet pyrography and helping business owners design their social media presence is inspiring!
From 5 years of living in her camper on the road across the United States, she created a career for herself as a virtual assistant in the real estate industry. Always an artist, she also perfected her craft in pyrography, AKA “free-hand wood burning.” As she sought out creative opportunities to grow and provide for herself consistently, she now serves as the Director...2024-09-031h 00
Kansas City Business Cast#28 – Luxury at Every Price Point – Cassidy Wheeler, Scout Homes & DesignCassidy Wheeler is amongst the top 40 real estate agents under 40 years old here in Kansas City. She has been validated by her peers as an expert negotiator, exceptional communicator, and committed advocate for her clients.
She is also one of the kindest, most well-connected networkers we know. We have watched her make meaningful connections amongst business owners that aren’t even operating in the real estate industry. She joked on this episode that no matter what someone needs, she’s “got a guy” she can refer them to. Even better, all of the people she refe...2024-08-2758 min
Kansas City Business Cast#27 – Empowering Tomorrow With Solar Today – Ryan Newton, Rynori SolarRyan Newton is a new guest on KCBC, but has been part of our tribe since its inception in the summer of 2023. Part of the Referral Madness group which Michael and other guests have mentioned numerous times, we have watched him hone his business acumen and grow his own solar company.
Based on his extensive experience as a sales and regional management executive, his knack for research, and leverage of social media platforms, we envision him becoming a leader in Kansas City’s solar industry.
Rynori is more than just a solar...2024-08-201h 06
Kansas City Business Cast#26 - Until They Know You Care - Chase Forsyth, Hardwear Clothing LLCChase Forsyth is the co-founder of Hardwear Clothing LLC, a professional bodybuilder, and fitness coach (for all people, all shapes, all sizes, all goals). He runs Hardwear along with 3 other bodybuilders located here in the Midwest. We discussed injuries, setbacks, bodybuilding, and the innerworkings of Hardwear on this episode.He also busted a few myths about bodybuilders, described what it is like to prepare for a competition, the pros and cons of the bodybuilding industry, educating others, and what’s coming up next for Hardwear. ...2024-08-131h 11
Kansas City Business Cast#25 – Realize How Dope You Are – Bump Jonas, Sprinkle Sum Salt PodcastYou need to hear this. Tell a friend to tell a friend!
Bump Jonas is a creative at his core. Everything he does comes from his confidence, conviction, and compassion to connect with others and bring awareness to the awesomeness happening here in Kansas City AKA “the KardiaC”, as he calls it.
He is the host of the Sprinkle Sum Salt podcast, co-founder of ThraxX Pastry (a cannabis-based edibles service led by his wife), & founder of his own clothing company, Everyone Moves Together.
Listen to h...2024-08-061h 45
The Build Show PodcastMastering Financial Stability for ContractorsJoin Matt and Breakthrough Academy (BTA) co-founder Igor Trninic in a conversation about financial management and the consequences of being financially disorganized in the construction industry. BTA is not only part of The Build Show Expert team, but also a company that helps contractors streamline their operations and achieve financial stability. They delve into three main consequences of poor financial management: having to let go of valuable employees due to financial instability, being surprised by poor financial performance at year-end, and unknowingly working on unprofitable projects.Igor shares his background, highlighting his early experiences with financial mismanagement...2024-07-1944 min
Kansas City Business Cast#24 – Making KC Better for the Better – Charon Thompson, Black Drip Coffee & The Porterhouse KCCharon Thompson is our season 1 finale guest and we could not be more pumped about this conversation! This man is a legend in KC and one to know if you don’t already!
Charon is a God-fearing husband, father, entrepreneur, nonprofit leader, heavy equipment operator, and co-founder of Black Drip Coffee & The Porterhouse KC. We talked about his origin story, hobbies, music, philosophy on entrepreneurship, and how he & Dan Smith started BDC and PHKC.
He brings enthusiasm, creativity, ingenuity, and welcoming sense of humor to everything he does. Order some Black Drip Coffee and support Th...2024-04-301h 31
Kansas City Business Cast#23 – An Atmosphere That Feels Like Home – Tanner Sutton, The Garden DIYTanner Sutton is an east coast native that moved to Kansas City just before the pandemic started in 2020. A musician, connector, promoter, business analyst, data guy, Doctoral candidate, & change management nerd…he proves that we don’t need to stay in one lane to be successful.
He started The Garden DIY concert venue out of his backyard to offer a space for artists to perform, grow in their confidence, and support live music gatherings. It has grown into an LLC which now has 9 board members. The Garden DIY hosts weekly open mic nights, artist features, monthly concerts, and...2024-04-2357 min
Kansas City Business Cast#22 – What is Your Masterpiece Mission? – Rob Wegner, Kansas City Underground & NewThingAside from being one of my best friends, mentors, and wise counselors, Rob Wegner is one of the founding leaders and directors of the Kansas City Underground, which exists to fill Kanas City with the beauty, justice and Good News of Jesus through unleashing the gifts, mission and creativity of everyday people in every place in our city.
He also serves as the north American Director of NewThing, a global tribe equipping catalytic leaders in every nation of the world who believe in working together to advance the mission of Jesus. Rob is also the Director of...2024-04-161h 09
Kansas City Business Cast#21 – Sweating for a Living – Korey Balakrishnan, The Sweat VaultKorey Balakrishnan is a California native that relocated with her family to the Kansas City region in 2020, with no connections here. She has deep, personal experience helping others recover from trauma, injury, and immobility through movement.
After working several years for other corporations and studios, she built The Sweat Vault in Overland Park, Kansas. They offer hot yoga, barre, Pilates, TRX, kettle bell, kickboxing, and fusion programs. With hundreds of five-star reviews, and daily testimonials shared on Instagram by her clients, the fruit of her & her instructors’ labor is obvious.
Korey has connected our KCBC te...2024-04-0257 min
Kansas City Business Cast#20 – Healing Happens Here – Zach & Meagan Nelson, Vita ChiropracticDr. Zach and Meagan Nelson are co-founders of Vita Chiropractic and Vita Vitality Wellness, based in Merriam, Kansas, a city within the Kansas City metropolitan area. Personally, I have heard testimonial after testimonial, on a weekly basis, for the last 8 months of knowing them. They are pillars in our community, doing amazing work for residents of all ages in our region!
Through neurologically-based chiropractic care, Vita Chiropractic are working to establish a paradigm shift to healthier lifestyles so individuals and families can serve their bigger purpose.
On this episode, we talked about the importance of ne...2024-03-261h 06
Kansas City Business Cast#19 – Meet the Beast – Sid Balakrishnan, Beastified GymThis is a powerful conversation with a powerful dude you must know in Kansas City!
Sidharth “Sid” Balakrishnan is the first US Military combat veteran & business owner to interview on the show. He runs Beastified Sports Nutrition & Performance which will become one with the Beastified Gym in Overland Park as soon as they break ground in 2024. He holds two Masters degrees in Clinical Psychology. He also competes as a men’s physique bodybuilder through the National Physique Committee (NPC).
Sid spoke about his origins as a business owner, veteran, competitor, family man, California to Kansas City t...2024-03-191h 06
Kansas City Business Cast#18 – The Awesome Episode – Cam F. Awesome, Author, Speaker, Comedian, Golden Gloves BoxerThis interview is awesome! Literally. We talked about business coaching, athlete privilege, vegan diet, first world problems, addiction, identity crises, bullying, motivation, social media, comedy, learning, humility, and what the future will hold for Cam!
His name wasn’t always Cam Awesome. Growing up, he struggled a lot. Both academically and socially. After years of anxiety and bullying, he eventually joined a boxing gym in order to learn to protect himself. He fell in love with the sport!
He is the Winningest Boxer in USA Boxing history, and holds four Golden Glove Championships, six U.S. Ch...2024-03-121h 26
Kansas City Business Cast#17 – The Youngest Bookseller in America - Halley Vincent, Paws Up KC & Seven StoriesLocally and nationally awarded 14-year-old Halley Vincent is a student, philanthropist, writer, activist, and entrepreneur. She has run a nonprofit since she was 8 years old, and a book store in Shawnee, KS, that evolved from a bookmobile!
Paws Up KC seeks to combine two community service issues: literacy and animal adoption. Halley believes every household needs a stack of good books and a pet to cuddle with, and the core audience for these two interests often overlap so why not combine them?
Seven Stories is a tiny shop with a big heart! Halley hand-selects all...2024-03-051h 06
Kansas City Business CastContinuous Improvement - Immutable Law #4 - 5M2LGot 5 minutes? Learn more. Know less.
Most call them core values, we call ours “Immutable Laws.”
Immutable Law #4 is Continuous Improvement.
I explain the value of continuous improvement as one of VAS LLC AND KCBC’s immutable laws. If this resonates with you, try it in your own career, business, nonprofit, organization, or internship. If you want help implementing a continuous improvement strategy, our contact information is below. We offer services to companies in Kansas City and remotely across the US.
...2024-03-0105 min
Kansas City Business CastTribal Strength - Immutable Law #3 - 5M2LGot 5 minutes? Learn more. Know less.
Most call them core values, we call ours “Immutable Laws.”
Immutable Law #3 is Tribal Strength. Also known as relationships or relational health. Within a business, it is VITAL.
I explain the value of tribal strength as one of VAS LLC AND KCBC’s immutable laws. If this resonates with you, try it in your own career, business, nonprofit, organization, or internship. If you want focus more on building stronger relationships in your business, our contact information is below. We off...2024-02-2305 min
Kansas City Business Cast#16 - Creating Content With Purpose - Josh Gloer, G10 CreativeJosh Gloer is an EMMY® Award nominated documentary producer and director based in Kansas City, MO.
He is currently in production on his debut feature documentary, Chasing Goals that follows Global FC, a soccer club made up of refugees from 29 countries, as they battle for survival on and off the pitch in Kansas City's underserved Old Northeast. The film follows these young athletes struggle to overcome cultural differences, food insecurity and crime while they train to play in the nation's most prestigious youth soccer tournament - The USA Cup. Coming Spring 2024.
2024-02-2059 min
Kansas City Business CastDivergent Leadership - Immutable Law #2 - 5M2LGot 5 minutes? Learn more. Know less.
Most call them core values, we call ours “Immutable Laws.”
Immutable Law #2 is Divergent Leadership.
I explain the value of divergent leadership as one of VAS LLC AND KCBC’s immutable laws. If this resonates with you, try it in your own career, business, nonprofit, organization, or internship. If you want help from us as your divergent business growth coach, or with implementing a divergent leadership strategy, our contact information is below. We offer services to companies in Kansas City a...2024-02-1605 min
Kansas City Business Cast#15 – Clever in a World so Cold – Clark Rooseveltte, Clvr. World Goods & SupplyClark Rooseveltte is a visionary, creative director, business owner, philanthropist, artist, maker, and designer in Kansas City, Missouri. He has literally done it all, which makes him a prime example of what not only following your dreams looks like, but building them in the process.
He talked about his upbringing, how Clvr. World came to be, feeding the homeless, inspiring children & adults to be creative, heartbreaking loss, upcycling clothing, The Clark Rooseveltte Show, and the beliefs that drive him.
We covered just about everything in this episode, and honestly could have talked for 2+ more hours...2024-02-131h 37
Kansas City Business CastExperiential Learning - Immutable Law #1 - 5M2LGot 5 minutes? Learn more. Know less.
Most call them core values, we call ours “Immutable Laws.”
Immutable Law #1 is Experiential Learning. Also known as “learning by doing.”
I explain the value of experiential learning as one of VAS LLC AND KCBC’s immutable laws. If this resonates with you, try it in your own career, business, nonprofit, organization, or internship. If you want help implementing an experiential learning strategy, our contact information is below. We offer services to companies in Kansas City and remotely across the US.
...2024-02-0904 min
Kansas City Business CastBusiness Update. - 5M2LGot 5 minutes? Learn more. Know less.
The first 5M2L of 2024 is an update on the podcast and Michael’s Business Growth Coaching LLC, Vocati ad Servitium (VAS).
I explain what’s coming up next for 5M2L, explain the new 5 Seconds to Burn reels which are on Instagram and YouTube exclusively, as well as answer a couple of FAQ’s about how I use my business to help founders grow their businesses.
I use 5M2L segments to provide simple talks about leadership, processes, talent strategy, recrui...2024-02-0804 min
Kansas City Business Cast#14 – Clear on Fear - Emily McIntyre, Serial Entrepreneur, Speaker, Writer, and PodcasterEmily is a new keynote speaker, a remarkable writer, a serial entrepreneur since age 13, an ex-pro journalist, and the CEO and Founder of ZEM Coffee, a humanitarian coffee company that is vertically-integrated in Ethiopia and has a presence in Peru.
She also offers consulting and education through Fix, Close, Sell. The newsletter and 7-minute podcast that brings business owners clarity and helps them in figuring out what to do next are linked below. To sum it up: she makes complicated stuff accessible!
We talked about her origin story, adventures...2024-02-071h 07
Kansas City Business Cast#13 – Better Together – Dre Cannon and Jessica Ward Cannon, Better Together CPT & Better RebuildDre and Jessica started Better Together in Kansas City out of their love for each other, fitness, and enthusiasm for helping couples achieve optimal health and wellness. They serve couples nationwide. They believe that working out together not only enhances physical health but also fosters a deeper and emotional connection. Their app offers tailored workouts, expert guidance, and interactive challenges, all aimed at empowering couples to embrace a healthier lifestyle, side by side.
This interview is a great reminder that couples can be better together, as one unit, with common goals. They talked about their program, fitness...2024-01-311h 02
Kansas City Business Cast#12 - Making a Career of Visual Storytelling - Daniel Miyares, Author & IllustratorIt is an honor to have Daniel Miyares talk about his origin story and journey as an independent author & illustrator here in Kansas City! We encourage students, writers, poets, painters, illustrators, teachers, and enthusiasts of all things literary arts to listen to this episode.
Daniel is a critically acclaimed picture book author and illustrator. Some of his books include: Hope at Sea, Float, Night Out, That is My Dream, and Bring Me A Rock!. Daniel has been called “…a master of visual storytelling.”- Jody Hewston, Kinderlit, and “…enchanting, versatile” – The New York Times. He believes that our stories have the...2024-01-241h 05
Kansas City Business Cast#11 – Capital Access for Small Businesses 101 - Vincent L. Haworth, America’s Small Business Development Center KansasVincent A. Haworth, Director of the SBDC Capital Access Center at Johnson County Community College, is an accomplished banking professional with 21 years of experience at the staff and branch management levels. He has experience in all daily operations of a banking environment with focused skills in the areas of business development, commercial and SBA small business lending, training, and team development.
Many emerging solopreneurs, entrepreneurs, and other dream-builders are not aware of the full scope of coaching services that Small Business Development Centers across the nation can provide to them. This interview is a 101 in all things...2024-01-171h 11
Kansas City Business Cast#10 – Armor for the Content Battleground – Phil McDowell, Armor Marketing & Philm CreativePhil is the Founder & CEO of Armor Marketing. He was one of the first entrepreneurs I met on my journey in 2023 to build something of my own. As I got to know him, his philosophy on business and storytelling, he became one of the first guests I asked to interview for KCBC.
A content marketing agency with a twist, Armor provides high quality content solutions and strategy at the fraction of the price when compared to in-house marketing teams, unreliable freelancers, or other expensive agencies. Massive action is their method!
I am inclined to recommend...2024-01-101h 28
Kansas City Business CastRelationships > Talent - 5M2LGot 5 minutes? Learn more. Know less.
You can have a company full of talented people… but if they cannot work well together or keep strong relationships, your ability to succeed and grow will be seriously inhibited. Your turnover will be high. Your customers WILL notice.
This episode was made for a listener who sent the idea in through KCBC’s Instagram page. Thank you for keeping us going, Kansas City Business Cast Nation!
I use 5M2L segments to provide simple talks about leadership, processes, talent strategy, recruiting, books, or other value-added lessons I’ve...2024-01-0305 min
Kansas City Business CastNew Year. New Silence. - 5M2LGot 5 minutes before the new year hits us all in a couple of hours?
Learn More. Know Less.
This episode was literally recorded 20 minutes ago as of this writing. No practice. No editing. It’s my little New Year’s Eve special directly from my heart.
As you consider your reflections of 2023, and your goals/word/resolutions/revolutions/journey for 2024, consider silence as part of your strategy.
I shared a little bit of my experience here on this one. I feel like someone out there needs to hear this. Or needs to c...2024-01-0105 min
Kansas City Business CastCarving your path - 5M2LGot 5 minutes? Learn more. Know less.
I’ve been carving my own path and many paths since entering the professional workforce, but have a ways to go as an entrepreneur. As a listener of KCBC, you are literally listening to my evolution as an independent business owner. So listen in to my perspective about being future-focused and ensuring your activities align with your “why” which should also set you into carving a path of your own.
This episode was made for a listener who sent the idea in through KCBC’s Instagram page. Thank you for keeping us going, Kansas City Bus...2023-12-2704 min
Kansas City Business Cast#9 – Local Food Unity – Kent Stones, KC Foodways & National Alliance of Local Food ProvidersKent Stones is advocating for local food unity in Kansas City. Through deep personal experience and motivation he is leveraging community engagement, collaboration, education, sustainability, and social capital as methods to increase the percentage of local, nutritious food that Kansas Citians eat.
Kent is the Founder of KC Foodways, Founder of National Alliance of Local Food Providers, and an Adjunct Professor at Johnson County Community College. The NALFP will be officially launching in the first quarter of 2024 with a campaign. He makes a strong case for organizing, streamlining, and making information about local food providers more easily accessible.
As you...2023-12-201h 05
Kansas City Business Cast#8 – Not Your Typical PT Clinic – Dr. Eric Vargas & Dr. Dave McNiel, TrueFix Physical TherapyEric and Dave are the first business owner duo to come on KCBC. These guys are making a serious difference in the lives of their clients in the Kansas City region! Listen to how they started TrueFix, their perspective on wellness, the current state of insurance as it relates to PT, networking with the community, and how they develop recovery plans for each individual.
Healthcare and PT professionals will appreciate the insights they provide on this episode. They live up to their motto, “Not Your Typical Physical Therapy Clinic,” and their perfect 5-star Google review history validates the...2023-12-1355 min
Kansas City Business Cast#7 – Matching Mission to Mastery – Heather Snyder, The Marketing AgentHeather Snyder is a long time Kansas City resident and strategic thinker who loves all things sales and marketing. She launched The Marketing Agent earlier this year to help business owners find the right marketing solutions for them based on their goals, budget and timeline. Business owners, you’re going to want to hear this!
Marketing Agent: “A professional hired by a business owner, with experience in marketing strategy and the buying and selling of marketing services & advertising who acts as a client advocate, strategist and steward of the clients’ goals, budget and timeline.” – As defined by Heather Sn...2023-12-061h 02
Kansas City Business CastYou are not your job. - 5M2LGot 5 minutes? Learn more. Know less.
This episode is about your personal identity and how your job does not determine who you are. A listener sent this topic into the Instagram page. Thank you, listeners, for continuing to engage with KCBC!
I misquoted Lecrae Moore while I recorded this…his actual quote, from “Unashamed”:
“If you live for people’s acceptance, you’ll die from their rejection.”
When things are going great at work, you might feel like you’re on cloud 9. However, when things go wrong, you miss a deadline, or make a mistake, how does that make you feel?
Too many...2023-12-0504 min
Kansas City Business CastCulture - 5M2LGot 5 minutes? Learn more. Know less.
The extensive information on workplace culture can be overwhelming. I boil it down to these questions:
How do your employees feel when they’re at work?
Do your activities align with the values your company projects?
What type of culture are you nurturing (or tolerating)?
I use 5M2L segments to provide simple talks about leadership, processes, talent strategy, recruiting, books, or other value-added lessons I’ve learned lately.
Listen on your drive, on a break, or use in discussions for team meetings.
KCBC Info:
...2023-12-0504 min
Kansas City Business Cast#6 - The Real AF Mompreneur Coach - Taylor Nosakhere, With You WellnessTaylor Nosakhere is a real AF mompreneur that guides career-driven second-time mothers through transformative pregnancies, birth, and postpartum experiences through her business, With You Wellness. She is the first KCBC guest that runs her own podcast, as well (Driver’s Seat Moms).
Her journey is nothing short of inspiring, and nothing about her path was traditional. Taylor brings authenticity, kindness, respect, truth, reliability, and a high amount of advocacy to her clients that is refreshing.
During the recording of this interview, she is also pregnant with her second set of twins. She is a warrior of the highest order and I am...2023-11-291h 13
Kansas City Business Cast#5 - Faith, Leadership, & Helping Nonprofits in Solving the Hardest Problems - Mike Farag, Fervor Marketing Concepts and The BonhoefferAfter years climbing the corporate ladder, Mike discovered where his heart really was while on a mission trip to Haiti. He found a passion for serving brands at the intersection of faith and business. About living out our calling through our work. And about developing healthy organizational cultures so they can succeed from the inside out. And so, Fervor was born.
Through this award-winning agency, Mike has been serving nonprofits and businesses of all sizes for 15 years. Today, Mike and his team serve faith-led organizations across the country with strategy, brand development, ongoing communication...2023-11-2259 min
Kansas City Business CastCrucial Conversations - 5M2LGot 5 minutes? Learn more. Know less.
Don't be an email gangster. Friends don't let friends bring 3D topics into 2D mediums of communication. Next time you need to have a hard discussion with someone, handle it in person with respect. Every organization, nonprofit, small business, and household would do well to have more crucial conversations about the real issue causing the division between them.
I use 5M2L segments to provide simple talks about leadership, processes, talent strategy, recruiting, books, or other value-added lessons I’ve learned lately.
Listen on your drive, on a...2023-11-1704 min
Kansas City Business Cast#4 - Tinting, Protecting, & Connecting KC - Liz Stewart, Tinting K.C.Liz Stewart operates Tinting K.C. in Lenexa, Kansas with her son, Rory. They provide outstanding quality of service, and their 105 5-star Google reviews prove it. Liz, Rory, Jared, and Josh have ensured every customer receives the best service and as a result they have hundreds of raving fans in the Kansas City metro.
TKC grew during the pandemic, operates 100% debt-free, and doesn’t limit their services to tinting windows and applying paint protection film to cars. They provide security film to the windows of schools, religious institutions, and government buildings. Many of the se...2023-11-1756 min
Kansas City Business CastGot Leaders? - 5M2LGot 5 minutes? Learn more. Know less.
As a follow up to “RE: Empowerment” I talk about leader-follower vs leader-leader structure. I saw these dichotomies in every professional role I’ve ever held. David Marquet helped me figure out a simple way to articulate them.
I use 5M2L segments to provide simple talks about leadership, processes, talent strategy, recruiting, books, or other value-added lessons I’ve learned lately.
Listen on your drive, on a break, or use in discussions for team meetings.
Let me know if there is a topic you’d like to...2023-11-1304 min
Kansas City Business CastRE: Empowerment - 5M2LGot 5 minutes? Learn more. Know less.
The word “empowerment” has its place. However, I believe its been overused in recent years. In many ways, in the wrong context within business culture and leadership teachings. I will explain that a bit in this segment, with some supporting info from David Marquet's "Turn the Ship Around!"
5M2L segments feature me talking about leadership, processes, talent strategy, recruiting, books, or another value-added lesson I’ve learned lately. Listen on your drive, on a break, or for discussions in team meetings.
Let me know if there is a s...2023-11-1005 min
Kansas City Business Cast#3 - We Win in the Dark – Jeremiah Davis, ShiftKCJeremiah is a pillar of a man in the Kansas City Region. He is determined to inspire employees to freedom, by teaching them how to be entrepreneurs. In his family, everyone is an entrepreneur. Even his children have begun building their own businesses…whether they are selling homemade brownies, providing paid pet-care to their neighbors, or learning the family lawn sprinkler business, they are learning to provide value to others (beyond the lemonade stand).
Jeremiah’s experience, insights, and wisdom run deeply through his words and all who have the honor of knowing him. My hope for this ep...2023-11-0858 min
Kansas City Business CastSo you got laid off...now what?! (Part II) - 5M2L5 Minutes to Learn (new name) is a series of 5 minute segments on
KCBC!
Here I will be solo - talking about leadership, processes,
talent strategy, recruiting, a new book I'm reading, or another lesson I've
learned lately.
This is the first part of a 2-part 5MWM in which I offer
some pointers for folks affected by lay-offs.
I also believe there are some tips employees will find helpful as well.
Learn More. Know Less!
Mentioned in this episode: https://www.shiftkc.org
KC residents: get on the ShiftKC wait-list f...2023-11-0304 min
Kansas City Business CastSo you got laid off...now what?! (Part I) - 5M2L5 Minutes to Learn (new name) is a series of 5 minute segments on
KCBC!
Here I will be solo - talking about leadership, processes,
talent strategy, recruiting, a new book I'm reading, or another lesson I've
learned lately.
This is the first part of a 2-part 5MWM in which I offer
some pointers for folks affected by lay-offs.
I also believe there are some tips employees will find helpful as well.
Learn More. Know Less!
KCBC Info:
Media Inquiries: email Michael.vasllc@pm.me
Work with Michael: www.vocatiadservitium.com
Apple Podcasts...2023-11-0305 min
Kansas City Business Cast#2 - It's Always Only Been About People - Joey Williams, Populus RecruitingJoey is known for his integrity, candor, sense of humor, and
ability to put people first in all business he does. This interview could not come at a better time, as 2023 has been a year of lay-offs, company closures, and a lot of disruption for job seekers in the market.
Joey started Populus Recruiting out of his desire to build something of his own and get the right people in the right seats. He brings a fresh perspective and work ethic to the talent acquisition space that business owners, hiring managers, recruiters, and job-seekers alike will find va...2023-11-011h 09
Kansas City Business Cast5 Minutes To Learn- Introduction!5 Minutes To Learn (previously known as "5 Minutes W/ Michael") is a new, independent series of 5 minute segments on KCBC! Here I will be solo - just talking about leadership, processes, talent strategy, recruiting, a new book I'm reading, or another lesson I've learned lately.
Learn More. Know Less!
KCBC Info:
Media Inquiries: email Michael.vasllc@pm.me
Work with Michael: www.vocatiadservitium.com
Apple Podcasts - KCBC
YouTube: KCBC
Instagram: @KCBC913
2023-10-3102 min
Kansas City Business Cast#1 - Starting a Counseling Practice in a Pandemic - Stephanie Risinger, Hopeful & Whole CounselingStephanie is a clinically licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LCMFT) serving women enduring infertility, pregnancy loss, and postpartum challenges in Kansas and Missouri. She has over 15 years of experience as a therapist and had taught courses at California Baptist University before relocating to Kansas. She started her practice, Hopeful & Whole Counseling, during the pandemic in March 2021.
She has spoken about all of the clinical aspects of her practice before on her own podcast, but has never been interviewed to talk about all of the business aspects that create her successful private counseling group.
2023-10-251h 08
Kansas City Business Cast#0 - The Introduction w/ Michael Risinger, Vocati ad Servitium LLCWelcome to the introduction of the Kansas City Business Cast! My name is Michael Risinger, Business Growth Consultant for Vocati ad Servitium LLC (VAS) in Kansas City.
This is a quick take which explains who I am and why I'm doing this. Thank you for listening and remember to follow, subscribe, and would you kindly rate/review us if you like what you hear.
KCBC Info:
Media Inquiries: email Michael.vasllc@pm.me
Work with Michael: www.vocatiadservitium.com
Apple Podcasts - KCBC
YouTube: KCBC
Instagram: @KCBC913
X: @KCBC913
2023-10-0406 min
The Build Show PodcastInsulation, Vapor Permeance, and Wall ForgivenessThis week on The Build Show Podcast, Matt and Michael Crane go deep and nerdy into vapor transference and wall forgiveness.
Michael Crane is a business development manager with Rockwool, and he and Matt talk about the importance of water and insect control when building. They also discuss how Rockwool products are environmentally friendly, repel insects, and can be used above and below grade.
They touch on vapor open and vapor closed systems and detail out a perfect wall, walking through what that could look like.
Interested in the white papers that Matt and Michael mentioned? Check out Rockwool's Building...2023-02-1046 min