Mike Seminary & Friends: Recent Episodes
Mike Seminary
Join Mike and his friends as they discuss ways to make a positive impact in this world, the pursuit of dreams and many more topics.
Rollie Johnson is a true Renaissance Man. He is a lay pastor, canoe restorer, worship leader, author, hunter, husband, father, motivational speaker and more. He has written a trilogy of books that are inspiring and enlightening.
Frustrated about the many inefficiencies and unknowns that affected the paving projects he was managing, Bryce found a way to offer solutions to keep construction projects on time and on budget.
Darrell has turned his love of sports into a weekly blog full of sports stories, life lessons, memories, great quotes and more. It is his way of building community.
What are the solutions to homelessness? The problem is complex and there are no easy answers but Devon is working to help communities work on new strategies.
Curious about the difference between public and private education, income levels and students’ race, Patrick monitors a year of studies at a Catholic high school in Harlem, revealing the soaring cost of academically training young poor and non-Catholic black males for graduation and college.
Mike and Becky share some of the incredible stories that are happening in the Jail Chaplain ministry.
Tate used to dress up like a CEO for Halloween and he now has the title. As the CEO of Get Coffee’d he has created a caffeinated confection. Plus, he has revived an abandoned food manufacturing plant and put unemployed people back to work.
Originally from Fargo, North Dakota, The Blenders have been performing for over 30 years, bringing their unique style of vocal, harmony-based music to audiences across the United States. Tim gives us some background and updates on upcoming Christmas shows.
Walker West Music Academy creates a music learning community rooted in the African American cultural experience, where people of all ages and backgrounds gather to explore, perform, and grow through music.
A lifelong learner with a passion for education, Dr. Diane Nicolet (Dr. Di) brings extensive experience and unwavering commitment to her role as School Board Trustee for Washoe County School Board – District G. She is running for re-election this year.
Michael Howe is a fifth generation North Dakota farmer currently serving as the 15th North Dakota Secretary of State. Everyone should hear him talk about how important it is to cast your vote in every election.
Jordan’s parents built a company that provides value by making sure they provide the client value. Even if that means sending them to a different company that will provide the solutions they really need.
After tragically losing her husband in 2017, Tracy made the decision to take over her husband’s construction business and has continued its success with her two sons.
Greg has authored a powerful devotional based on his desire to deepen his relationship with God.
Ryan is an entrepreneur from North Dakota, currently living in Brazil. We talk about his background, business interests and the non profit he co-founded with his brother.
The Leedahls lead a rapidly growing congregation, at Northview Church in Fargo, with servant hearts.
I had a blast catching up with my old band mates, David Grosz, Ron Faleide and Michael Joyal.
Cole Wisniewski has a lot of titles – Christian, Husband, Student Athlete, Risk Advisor, All American – and he honors all of them with integrity, grace and passion.
Dave Anderson helped revitalize downtown Fargo into the vibrant, happening place it is today.
Dr. Wilson offers his insight and expertise on the amazing advances in agriculture, and how it’s adjusting with global tensions.
Cam puts a lot of thought into what people will want in their neighborhoods. Hear how even technology is making an impact on those decisions.
Os offers daily devotions and also has a treasure trove of information for people wanting to become a mentor, or those just looking for a better faith walk. And, in his own words, “instead of retiring I am re-firing.”
Chris and his partner Nathan are working to develop solutions to major issues so they can leave a better world for their children. Watch for their docuseries soon.
The Schlossers have answered God’s calling and are teaching farmers in other countries Regenerative Agriculture, or how to farm the way God intended. It is working.
Wendell has honed his craft as a functional wood artist over the years, and what was once a hobby is now a full time gig.
Shawn and Arnie know it is not easy to run a business or a company, so they have put together a team of top notch experts to provide a breadth of knowledge making sure others succeed.
Rich and Shaun take us through some of the detrimental consequences that will happen should a property tax elimination proposal move forward in North Dakota.
The NDSU Foundation’s mission is to build enduring relationships that maximize advocacy and philanthropy to support North Dakota State University. In John’s role as President/CEO of the Foundation, he has overseen the receipt of over $700 million in gift support.
NDSU athletics have a strong, proud tradition and as Associate Athletic Director and Team Maker Executive Director, Derrick Lang is working to make sure that tradition continues, no matter what changes try to disrupt it.
Emily got her B.S. in Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Robotics from North Dakota State University in 2023. She is now a graduate student at Texas A&M, studying Aerospace Engineering. Emily is a big supporter of STEM education and speaks to young audiences about STEM frequently.
Dr. Kallmeyer talks about the importance of mentorship, hands-on education, reaching students while they are young and how an engineering degree can open the door to almost any type of career.
Dr. Birkeland hasn’t been at NDSU for long, but she is passionate about increasing enrollment and spreading the word about the amazing opportunities at the College of Business.
Colleen has served special needs children for over 35 years. After meeting the children at a Bogota orphanage she created the Light and Life Foundation which has helped hundreds of special needs and impoverished children in the area.
It all started when Micah interned at a sand and gravel operation in college. His passion for the industry grew, and he is now on the equipment side, working to deliver the right solutions for his customers.
Stephen may have been born with cerebral palsy (CP) but he does not let it define him. From becoming the first person with CP to ascend El Capitan to founding Camp Wamp, he does not miss out on anything life has to offer.
Through Strengthen ND, Megan and her team are helping rural communities solve their problems; working to support local small businesses, bring people together, and create a better future for North Dakota as a whole.
Chris has made his mark in North Dakota healthcare, health and human services policy and is now working to fix broken systems in national healthcare.
Bethany and her team work with children who have experienced multiple adverse childhood experiences by the time they reach kindergarten. Unfortunately the need is great in the Fargo-Moorhead area, but they are making a difference.
Learn more about the PROVE IT Act and how the United States needs to take a stand when it comes to unfair trade practices.
The Energy Series continues with EERC CEO Charlie Gorecki and Tom Oakland, Energy & Economic Coordination Office Manager with the North Dakota Dept, of Commerce.
Terry served our country in the Air Force for many years and he is continuing to serve others, just a little differently, at his new brewpub in Hillsboro, North Dakota.
Lisa is a busy wife, mom and professional who also finds time to write, do public speaking and help others as a soul coach.
Laetitia has spent most of her life giving back - helping women and children, immigrants and other underrepresented populations. Her story is one you won't want to miss.
Karel is doing an incredible job as Dean of the Gary Tharaldson School of Business at University of Mary in Bismarck, ND. He is using Virtuous Leadership to help others fulfill what God created them to do.
I get to have another entertaining conversation with my friend Shane. His entrepreneurial journey which led to an incredible creative outlet could be called the quintessential American Dream.
A transplant from California, Melyssa has learned to love North Dakota and now welcomes newcomers to the state as an ambassador for Find The Good Life.
Erica has been in her new role as the director of diversity and cultural competency at the North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation for a little over a year. Her work is so important to the lives of those working on second chances.
Katie and her team are working to bring job seekers to North Dakota to fill the thousands of jobs available in the state.
The first in a series with the North Dakota Department of Commerce. We talk about the importance of knowing the facts about projects coming to and/or looking at investing in our state.
Brian Jackson is not sure what he wants to be when he grows up, but right now he has found his passion in coffee. Learn about bean selection, roasting, grinding and more - then buy some Mighty Mo Coffee!
I will soon be starting a series on the energy landscape in North Dakota. I look forward to my conversations with the North Dakota Department of Commerce.
Joe and Simone have worked to create experiences and build community in the Fargo area. They are making a huge difference in the "coolness" of the city and in many ways are just getting started.
Anna found her gift of writing during COVID and has already written four books. She is using her gift to fight the stigma around mental illness.
Mike and Wil shared their stories of how Jesus has made a difference in their lives. Jail Chaplains provides a safe place for people to build healthy relationships while learning life skills presented from a biblical perspective.
Nicolai and his family have merged their Ecuadorian and Danish heritages to create a beautiful, cozy business that invites others to slow down and experience life with those they love most.
Andrea and David are back to talk about Andrea’s journey in finishing 50 marathons while battling ALS, her new book, movie and more.
Rod and his wife took over the family business at a very young age. They have experienced the frustrations of business ownership, yet have diversified into several other entrepreneurial ventures. Now he's written a book about the honest reality of entrepreneurship.
Bruce founded the Center for Innovation in 1984 and under his leadership it became one of the premier venture development organizations in the world. He has many awards and accolades and is also the author of seven books.
Dr. Fitzgerald and President McDonald join me to talk about the collaborative FARMS partnership and the proposal that recently became a finalist for a National Science Foundation $160 million grant.
Wade has written a wonderful book about his brother's journey from hockey greatness to dealing with a death sentence. This book is for everyone, full of wonderful messages and life lessons.
Michael makes it his purpose to share a smile with a stranger - spreading love, joy and kindness while he does it. He believes everyone has something amazing and beautiful to do in the world.
Dillon has always followed his passions and so far it has worked out well for him. From playing Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys to busking in Arizona, he tells us a bit about his adventures.
Michael got hooked on playing in bands at the age of 12. He put music aside to lay bricks and make a difference for North Dakota's homeless population, but it finally drew him back and he now runs Drummer's Journey in Moorhead and plays in the Blue Wailers group around the areas.
David has written a couple books and has a couple in the works. He has some very strong opinions on where America is going and what we can do to make America better.
Bob is the Executive Director of Marketplace for Kids, an amazing project based learning opportunity in North Dakota. Marketplace for Kids encourages students to stretch their thinking in more creative, divergent ways to solve problems and create new ideas.
Nick and Annie Senne are lucky enough to have turned their passions into successful businesses. If you're getting married or selling a house, give them a shout!
Sara and her team are responsible for getting people to visit North Dakota, enjoy everything the state has to offer, then maybe even choose to live and work here someday.
Michelle, her husband and in-laws have a vineyard in Alexandria, Minnesota. Over the past few years, they have added a brewery, wedding venue, food, music and super cool events to make it a destination for thousands across the Upper Midwest.
If you are a woman over 50 that feels like you are “stuck” or if you are struggling with money issues, Teri Bach can help. She spent 27 years as a psychotherapist before becoming a transformational coach and would love to help you open doors to your next possibility.
Mauri went from healthy, wealthy and married to divorced, broke and almost dead. Hear how she learned to make God a priority and helps others have a relationship with Him.
Steve Revland graduated high school because they didn’t want him back. Now he is a renowned artist and an author who has sold over 15,000 books. Listen to his remarkable story.
According to their website, the ND Dept. of Commerce works to improve the quality of life for North Dakota citizens by leading efforts to attract, retain and expand wealth. Josh and Rich join me to talk a little about how they are accomplishing that.
Joel is leading Doosan Bobcat through the rapidly changing landscape of emerging technologies and helping them maintain their market leadership.
Some people never realize the gifts God has given them. Luckily Jennifer and Richard have nurtured their gifts and blessed us all with their music.
From Fargo to the big leagues, Joe Hallock is following his love of baseball as a physical therapist.
Mark and his partners built a glorious, destination beer kingdom in an historic train repair building in Fargo, and recently opened Brewhalla next door – an event/party/retail space like no other in the area.
Besides being a committed, and very busy, husband and father, Josh is the State Director of AARP North Dakota, Co-director and board president of the Bismarck Marathon, former city commissioner, health advocate and triathlete. If he needs another title, it should be difference maker.
Peter has undergone over 35 surgeries to correct birth defects due to Goldenhar Syndrome. Music has transformed Peter’s life and he also has an incredible gift for public speaking.
From law enforcement to RV renovation, the Tomaz family has found the life they were meant to live in Texas. Hear their story, then check out their RV transformations.
Their first “payment” was admission to a pumpkin patch and free pumpkins. Be More Colorful, a virtual reality agency, is working to help students learn about job opportunities in North Dakota by experiencing those jobs through a headset.
Frank has served his country as a Marine and in the FBI. He now runs his own private investigation firm. As you can imagine, he has some interesting stories to share.
Racing motorcycles, running businesses, playing in a band. Whatever Dan decided to do in his life, he did it to the max. He consistently reinvented himself, saw opportunities and took advantage.
Dr. Werner-Wilson is adapting well to NDSU and the change in weather from Kentucky to North Dakota. He is leading the college through budgetary changes and making sure students are being taken care of through the transition.
The Quills love to travel with their kids and have decided to pass their expertise onto others. Whether you’re camping or flying overseas, they have some great travel tips for everyone.
Steffes has grown from building church pews to manufacturing and so much more. Recently named one of the top 50 places to work for the eighth straight year, hear how Steffes works on employee culture and growing their business.
Dr. Thompson gives us some great tips for starting 2023 on a healthy note. Listen to his six pillars you can adopt that will benefit you for years to come.
Patrick and Wayde are making it easier for students and employers to connect through work-based learning experiences.
Just a quick conversation with my wife about how this podcast was created and how grateful I am for her, my guests and of course, you. Thanks for listening.
After the interesting responses to last week’s letter from my dad, I decided to share a couple more.
My dad was passionate about politics and policy and wrote many letters to politicians during his lifetime. In this episode I read one of those letters, and the responses; I’ll leave it up to you to decide if things have gotten any better.
She served her country and now she is serving others. Hear how Jessica is impacting her veteran community through art as she travels the U.S. in her bus.
Grand Farm is a platform that brings the best together (from the region and beyond) to collaborate on what the farm of the future will look like. How about a harvest that can run 24/7 with autonomous equipment? Listen and learn more.
Bushel is an agricultural-focused software business solving problems for farmers, grain elevators and others in the United States and Canada. Learn more about the history of the company and what they have planned for the future.
If you're like me, you do most of your hunting, fishing and farming at the grocery store. It was a pleasure to learn more about farming and more specifically organic farming from my friends, Tom Campbell and Wayne Rempel.
Bitzero made a lot of headlines in June of 2022 when they announced plans to build their headquarters in North Dakota. Learn more during my conversation with their CEO, Akbar Shamji.
North Dakota's production of natural gas has captured the attention of Nico Duursema and his company. They plan to build a $2.8 billion gas to liquid plant in western North Dakota and we learn more about the project and the company's strategy from Nico.
Ron Ness has seen technology improve how much oil can be extracted from under western North Dakota. He talks about regulation, alternative energy, the importance of oil and natural gas to the nation's economy and more.
I was honored to be joined by U.S. Senator John Hoeven to talk about the exciting things happening in the energy and agriculture sectors across North Dakota. Some of the initiatives he began while in the North Dakota governor's office have developed into exploding industries and created jobs across the state.
The Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC) at UND is recognized as one of the world's developers of cleaner, more efficient energy. As Assistant Vice President of Strategic Partnerships, Brian Kalk works to build and grow dynamic working relationships with industry, government, and research entities around the world to ensure we have energy for the future.
Our Lieutenant Governor talks about how North Dakota is approaching the constant changes in the energy industry and continuing to make sure our state is a national leader when it comes to carbon capture, wind, oil exploration, and more.
If you have been wondering what all the fuss is about bitcoin, cryptocurrency and mining, Anita Posch was nice enough to answer some questions and clarify a few things on this week's show.
Forbes defines a neobank as a financial technology (fintech) firm that offers apps, software and other technologies to streamline mobile and online banking. Some neobanks also focus on specific communities and that is what Amber and Richard are doing with Totem - creating banking opportunities for Native Americans.
John Dahl is a name synonymous with golf in the Fargo, North Dakota area. His coaching skills have helped young people earn at least $3 million in college scholarships over the years and at the age of 70, he continues his legacy while coaching others.
Two former NDSU players and a coach join me to share some memories, opinions and life lessons to get us ready for another great Bison football season.
Manny's arrival in North Dakota (from Nigeria) was a memorable one. Hear his journey from Lake Region State College to corporate America to founding a non-profit that has provided over 9 million shoes to those in need around the world.
This week's conversation might seem a bit spacey - we talk about technology that is, quite frankly, hard to believe. Plus, it can be used in space travel! Richard and Daniel explain their company's amazing innovations.
When a teacher told Corinne she should just get married instead of pursue a career, it jump-started her on a path to the military AND becoming an orthodontist. Along the way she found she enjoys competing in beauty pageants, too!
Shane and his wife Krystal have committed their lives to helping others make sure they have a life to celebrate. They sheltered addicts in their home, then found a way to open sober living homes to serve even more in need.
Gary's path to becoming an author began with him wanting to share pieces of information and send encouraging notes to his staff and clients. They began asking for more and he now has three books in print with at least one more on the way.
Daniel is the Chair of Dramatic Arts at the University of Mary as well as a writer, actor and producer. When you hear the stories behind his films (all based on North Dakota), you will definitely want to take the time to watch.
He never wanted to go back to Watts, yet Pastor Jose is there, ministering to youth and making a difference. Hear how he connected with Dave Hatfield and learned of their similar missions.
Since 2016, Jeff Culhane has been the Voice of the Bison on 1660 AM in Fargo, ND. He will soon be the voice of the Seminoles at Florida State, but before that was even on the radar we talked about his journey to NDSU and how he got started in the broadcasting business.
Tyler Auck had a rough life. After many suicide attempts and overdoses, he finally found the reason to turn it around and is now helping others deal with the struggles of addiction.
J'Neil coaches basketball for Youthworks in a program called 'Beyond The Game' and then goes beyond his basketball program to find out what the kids really need. He gets youth and their families connected to the services in the community that will help them succeed.
Stephanie talks about her journey to owning two restaurants and some of the challenges she has had along the way. Listen, then go get yourself a butterhorn.
Maddie is only 14 years old, yet she has been making money selling delicious baked goods for almost 3 years. She tells us about the process and her dreams for the business.
Staying active and getting more people active is in Melanie Carvell's DNA. She talks about her book, family, training, coaching and her latest endeavor - Race Across America.
Bismarck native, Josh Reimnitz, is the Executive Director of Breakthrough Twin Cities, an amazing organization that has helped thousands of students become successful after high school - in college and beyond.
Ben was given a 5% chance of surviving a horrific auto accident and has not only survived, but thrived. His book tells his amazing story and Ben now helps others through his motivational speaking.
Through a trajectory of randomness (in his own words) James Leiman has interrogated the Taliban, left his job in Washington, DC, to become a City Administrator in Ada, Minnesota, and is currently the Commissioner of the North Dakota Department of Commerce.
Howard and Brian Dahl (brothers) are grandsons of E.G. Melroe, the founder of Melroe Company, one of the original North Dakota manufacturers. Together, they founded Amity Technology and have revolutionized the agricultural manufacturing industry across North America and Eastern Europe, including Russia and Ukraine. Howard, a man of great faith, joins me to share a small part of his story.
Kristin Hedger is the Vice President of Business Development for Killdeer Mountain Manufacturing (KMM), a company her grandfather founded to create jobs for people in western North Dakota. It has accomplished that goal, and KMM was presented with the Excellence in Advocacy Award by the Boeing Co. for creating jobs and economic success in the industry.
As the CEO/President of Impact Dakota, Jodie and his team help organizations become 'lean', innovative, and sustainable, saving them money and solving problems along the way.
Erica has a rich history of serving her fellow Native Americans which has prepared her to serve all of North Dakota as Labor Commissioner.
Jess is super passionate about helping youth develop life skills and build confidence. Listen to how her life has evolved and led her to her current position.
When Rick Lowe needed just the right design pieces for his landscaping and garden center he was forced to make them himself. He found his passion in resin and today his work is featured in galleries, showrooms and fine art shows across the country.
Maartje took a side hustle making gelato into a full time business and was recently named a Forbes magazine 30 under 30 in the food and drink industry. And, she does it all on a farm outside of Carrington, North Dakota.
Ditching corporate America to make a difference was an easy decision for Karli. Hear how BIO Girls is working to build up young women across the Midwest.
When Joy's son was injured in a rugby game, she had no idea it would lead her to write a book and work to help others afflicted with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).
Fellow podcaster Theresa Carpenter shares her struggle with alcohol, her military journey, thoughts on leadership and more.
Matt recently wrote a book about his sisters' secrets. Be prepared for some heavy discussion on mental health and family dynamics.
These parents turned a solution for their child's allergies into a side hustle. Hear how cotton candy has changed their lives and even their address!
When he was growing up in Germany, Claus Lembke wanted to be a farmer, a poet and an author. He has reached one of those goals, writing a book about his journey to America.
Growing up with dyslexia, Jane knew the struggles of learning to read. When their daughter was diagnosed with dyslexia in first grade, the Conlins searched for solutions and ended up opening up a tutoring center for dyslexia in St. Paul.
You will love this couple! Arnie and Sigrid talk about health struggles, marathons, supporting each other, running a business and more. They'll even give you tips for your New Year resolutions!
My friend James and I reminisce about our musical 'abilities' and you'll hear about some of the cool things he's done since leaving Fargo.
David Hanson has used his artistic gifts in many ways - creating music, photography and more. Hear how he has worked with some of the biggest names in music and created some memorable advertising slogans.
My friend Gerald VandeWalle has been in the North Dakota Supreme Court for over 40 years and he served as the Chief Justice for 26 of those.
Forum Communications is a multi-media company that started as one newspaper in Fargo, ND. Bill Marcil Jr., 5th generation owner, talks about the incredible changes he has seen over the years and how he is always thinking about 'what is next.'
You will love this story of how a father, who desperately wanted his autistic son to live a 'normal' life, started a non-profit that helps employ hundreds of people on the autism spectrum.
Than Baardson is the CEO and Co-Founder of Unseen, a nonprofit that accelerates the fight against human trafficking and its root causes. It's not a pretty topic, but one that must be heard.
This week you'll hear how Cliff Naylor worked his way into telling stories about some of the coolest places in North Dakota.
I had a great conversation with sports journalist and author Jeff Kolpack. He has written two books, just wrapped up a new one, 'COVID Kids', documenting the pandemic and what kids had to go through, especially those playing sports.
I get to chat with a childhood friend about his police and military service as well as the times God was really watching over him.
What would possess someone just diagnosed with ALS to set a goal of 'running' in a marathon in all 50 states? How about to raise money for ALS research AND to live longer than the five years her doctors gave her? Listen as Andrea shares her remarkable story.
Jackie and Janine share a few fun stories from the 1950s in rural North Dakota. They even have a You Tube channel - the 1950s Fun Chat! Learn how to order the book at mikeseminary.com.
How does someone who has traveled the world playing hockey end up as a hockey coach in Bismarck, North Dakota? Hear Mario's journey and also some great words of wisdom in this week's episode.
You'll be able to tell that Mike Thompson gets a lot of enjoyment out of life. He served his country for 42 years in various branches of the military and lives on the Laughing Horse Ranch in Texas. He is still not sure what he wants to be if he grows up.
John Stern learned how to sell clothing and the importance of investing in your community from his grandfather and father. Helping others became a family tradition.
Rebecca is working to transform and grow not only her small town of Oakes, North Dakota, but the region surrounding it. Leading by example, she has purchased a building her grandparents bought exactly 40 years before she signed the papers, providing a co-working space and more.
Once he decided the implement business wasn't in his future, Eric Hardmeyer found that the banking business was. Working his way up at the Bank of North Dakota, he held the President and CEO position for over 20 years, retiring in July. Episode 35
Like a lot of people, Jonathan Holth worked in the restaurant industry growing up. Unlike a lot of people he then decided to start a restaurant, which has since expanded across North Dakota and caused a lot of people to go crazy for deep-fried pickles.
My friend Shane Balkowitsch was searching for his place in the universe. He has found it, and more. This oncology nurse turned successful business owner has become a renowned wet plate photographer with works in 32 museums around the globe.
Not a fan of baseball? That's ok. Larry Tye's book on Satchel Paige is about way more than baseball and he has some great stories to tell. Learn about Satchel's time in Bismarck, North Dakota, his incredible pitching arm and more.
I wrap up my focus on female business owners with Former North Dakota Department of Commerce Commissioner, Michelle Kommer. She joins me this week to talk about her new business, High Road Partners.
When Nicole's boss asked if she wanted to buy the business, she took out a second mortgage to do so, and told her husband about it later. Hear some of her story and how a fire actually saved her restoration and construction company.
When Leititia Hanke realized she wasn't going to make much money as a musician, she took a job as a receptionist at a roofing company. Hear how she eventually became the owner of that roofing company and along the way has made it possible for others to make a living in the trades, and other areas, through her foundation.
Bismarck native Anne Mahlum joins me to talk about her passion for exercise and keeping others fit, as well. That passion led to starting a successful non-profit and most recently, solidcore, which has grown to 71 studios over the past 7 years.
How does a California native decide to become a welder solely to get a job in the North Dakota oil patch? As she says, 'You've really got to want to weld when you want to do it in negative thirty-five degrees.' Kara's story of struggles, ingenuity and successes is one you don't want to miss.
How can someone who went to church just to please his wife start having conversations with God about helping people (who live in a landfill) in Nakuru, Kenya? Listen as Dave Hatfield shares his story.
Growing up in North and South Dakota simultaneously (yes, it's possible), Rory Hoffman became a member of his family's band at age 5. He has learned to play many instruments over the years, something that helped him become successful in Nashville.
You won't hear all of Tony Hoffman's story in this episode, but you will hear enough to want more. His journey from BMXer to addict to prison to the Olympics is one that has led him to become a motivational speaker - inspiring others and offering hope.
You'll have to read his book to get all of the details, but in this episode you'll hear a little about how my friend, Prakash Mathew, ended up at NDSU in Fargo, North Dakota. Prakash had a profound impact on hundreds, if not thousands of students during his 34-year career at the university. He credits his parents for instilling the principles and values in him that shaped his life.
You will know more about sunflower seeds than the average person after you listen to this conversation with my friend, Jay Schuler. He has run a marathon on every continent, started numerous companies and gives some great advice for budding entrepreneurs. Episode 22
Even if you are not from Fargo, ND, you will enjoy the entertaining conversation I had with Danielle Tiegen, author of 'The Hidden History of Fargo' and 'The Fargo Fire of 1893.' Find out more about Danielle and how to purchase her books on her website.
It was such a pleasure to catch up with Ed Schafer and hear what he is focusing on these days. He also reminisces a bit about his time as North Dakota governor and how he decided to run for that office. If you haven't had the opportunity to experience Medora, ND - check out their website now!
I am honored to be joined by the First Lady of North Dakota, Kathryn Burgum. As First Lady, she is working to eliminate the shame and stigma of addiction by sharing her story of recovery. Kathryn wants everyone to know that addiction is a chronic disease and not a character flaw. Learn more at Recovery Reinvented.
This week you will meet Shaundra Ziemann - Bolinske, a busy mom who has served her country in the US Army Reserves, deploying twice. Her 'day job' allows her to serve the citizens of Burleigh County as the Family and Community Wellness Agent with NDSU Extension. May 26, 2021 | Episode 18
Description: In this episode, you will learn how Mariah Prussia took control and learned to fight for the life she deserved and desired. Her self defense seminars, motivational speaking and personal training are available to anyone and you can learn more at her website here.
It's another musical episode, as I have the pleasure of visiting with Buddy Greene, the world's greatest harmonica player. (In my opinion). Hear how he got his 'big break' with Jerry Reed and how eventually getting fired from the band was an answered prayer. Buddy is a co-writer on the beautiful, 'Mary Did You Know' and went viral with the William Tell Overture at Carnegie Hall. He even treats us to a little harmonica playing! Episode 18 | May 12, 2021
I was so excited to catch up with Tigirlily after their recent #1 hit, 'Somebody Does' rocked the music world and got them their first recording contract. Persistence (and hard work) really does pay off! Hear how Kendra and Krista stay grounded, find inspiration and keep the sisterly love going strong. Then, learn more at tigirlily.com and on social channels @tigirlily. Episode 16 | May 5, 2021
I'm honored to be joined by my friend, Dr. Dean Bresciani, President of North Dakota State University (NDSU). He talks about the importance of collaboration and communication between NDSU and the city of Fargo, the university's COVID-19 response and how, in numerous areas, they have gained national attention. Episode 15 | April 28, 2021
It doesn't get more real than this as Erik Hatch joins Mike and talks about his journey from youth pastor to real estate agent, business owner, author and more. Lots of failure has led to much success. Listen, then learn more at hatchingleaders.com. Episode 13 | April 21, 2021
Dishing up ice cream flavors like 'Donut Eat My Ice Cream', 'Creme de Grinch' and 'Cookies Are My Butter Half' on a weekly basis is Zach Vraa's new side hustle and he is killing it. How does a stand-out high school and collegiate athlete become the Twin Cities' hottest (coldest?) ice cream entrepreneur, selling out in under two minutes each week? Listen to his story, then follow him on Instagram @atozcreamery and check out the website here.
Listen in as Kari Warberg Block, founder and CEO of Earthkind, chats with Mike on company culture, being kind to the earth (before it was cool), as well as her new book, 'gathering around the table.'
Learning from life's challenges, Kari has many lessons she is more than willing to share that she feels may help others.
In this episode, Mike talks with Gospel Music Hall of Famer, Grammy and Dove Award-winning, Christian music producer and composer - Greg Nelson. Growing up in Bismarck, ND laid the groundwork for a lifetime full of musical accolades and experiences for Greg. Listen in as he shares how God watched over all of his struggles and triumphs in this delightful show. And, don't miss your opportunity to learn a little more about Greg's fascinating life - here is a link to his book, 'Runaway Horse'.
Join Mike and his friend, Beth Warford, as they talk about her passion to educate as many people as possible on the importance of personal safety and situational awareness. Based on her personal experience, Beth has developed training that will help you protect yourself, should the need arise. In seven short years, her start-up now has clients across the globe.
This week I talk with my oldest daughter, Lynsey, about her adventurous spirit. It is this spirit that has inspired her to try new foods, take up solo travel and meet life-long friends. Episode 7 | March 10, 2021
This week Mike visits with his friend Molly Swanston, Owner and Chief Sales Officer for Swanston Equipment in Fargo, ND. You'll learn how she realized a music profession wasn't for her, but peddling craft beer was. Currently she is successfully navigating the male-dominated construction equipment industry and expecting her first child.
March 3, 2021 | Episode 6
Dr. Thomas Goltz
Join Mike and his friend, Dr. Thomas Goltz as they explore Goltz's life adventures. From New York to Yemen, performing Shakespeare throughout Africa, and writing on conflict in Chechnya and Azerbaijan, Goltz always found a way to survive.
Episode 5 | February 24, 2021