Mark Johnson, the Executive Director of the Technology Innovation Center at Milwaukee County Research Park, shares a narrative that ties entrepreneurship, personal growth, and family dynamics into an engaging tale. From his aviation career to becoming a host for entrepreneurs in Wisconsin, Mark reveals how his upbringing in a family beset by challenges, including a household affected by alcoholism, shaped him. His candid reflections on the powerful influence of family dynamics on personal development, especially when it comes to setting healthy boundaries, are both insightful and moving.

Our conversation with Mark highlights the transformation that comes from embracing nutritional awareness and the limitations of modern healthcare. By studying nutritional therapy during the COVID pandemic, Mark discovered the profound impact of diet on mental clarity and well-being, propelling him into a journey of health transformation. We explore how Mark's focus on functional medicine and natural remedies has led him to a healthier lifestyle at 61 than he experienced in his 20s, showcasing the importance of listening to our bodies and maintaining a balanced lifestyle.

The episode further unravels the intricacies of family relationships and mental health, where Mark openly discusses his experiences and how they've influenced his roles as a husband and parent. His personal journey is a testament to the power of relationships in motivating personal improvement, underscored by the supportive role of his wife. The conversation also touches on societal shifts in discussing men's mental health and the critical role of open communication in fostering growth and familial harmony. Through Mark's story, listeners gain valuable insights into managing personal and familial challenges with resilience and grace.

Cisco's journey from Milwaukee to Green Bay is more than just a geographical move—it's a story filled with heartfelt lessons and candid reflections. Growing up in a large diverse family with financial constraints, Cisco navigated a world where joy coexisted with economic challenges. His stories offer a window into the complexities of cultural identity and familial bonds that defined his upbringing.

Cisco's relationship with his father adds another layer to his story, one marked by absence and emotional turmoil. He recounts the struggle of reconciling with a father whose priorities lay elsewhere and the eventual relief found in setting firm boundaries. These experiences underscore the importance of nurturing relationships that matter and letting go of those that don't. Cisco's journey to healing involves confronting childhood traumas, embracing personal growth, and finding solace in the supportive ties he formed along the way.

It’s through shared interests and unexpected connections that Cisco finds fulfillment. His personal growth is mirrored in his shift from a party-centric lifestyle to one of home-cooked meals and meaningful relationships. As he prepares for marriage, Cisco emphasizes the value of supportive partnerships through life’s highs and lows. This episode is a testament to the power of vulnerability, resilience, and the lasting impact of genuine human connection.

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Join us as we explore the fascinating journey of Justin Kubeck, founder of Feronus, who brings a unique perspective shaped by his upbringing in Waukesha, Wisconsin. With a career path spanning grocery work, industrial fabrication, and even wedding DJing, Justin's life took a transformative turn with his ADHD diagnosis, guiding him into the mental health sector. This episode delves into the tapestry of personal and familial experiences that shaped Justin's journey, from the influence of an outdoorsman father to the resilience built through adversity.

Justin also navigates the complex emotional landscapes of family dynamics and forgiveness. He opens up about the impact of his father's heart condition, which led to mood imbalances that defined much of Justin's formative years. Through introspective work and ongoing dialogues with his father, Justin shares his journey towards understanding and forgiveness, emphasizing the pivotal role his mother played as a mediator. This heartfelt exploration offers insights into how adversity can lead to resilience and personal growth, setting the foundation for a meaningful conversation about men's mental health and community support.

Bridging personal struggles with broader societal themes, Justin discusses the importance of fostering open conversations around men's mental health through grassroots initiatives like Feronus and Kindred. From personal battles with ADHD and depression to navigating cancer treatment, he underscores the significance of supportive relationships in overcoming life's challenges. Through community events and initiatives aimed at breaking down stigma, Justin envisions a future where mental health resources are accessible, encouraging healthier emotional expression and stronger connections within communities. Join us as we explore these powerful narratives of personal growth, community building, and the universal importance of mental well-being.

Join us in the episodes where I reconnect with Frank Berg, an old friend from our college days at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. We explore Frank's fascinating journey from his roots in a large Catholic family in Wisconsin to his current life in Denver, Colorado, where he thrives as an entrepreneur. Frank shares how his religious upbringing instilled values of tolerance and service, and how his spiritual path has evolved towards Zen Buddhism, enriched by experiences such as silent retreats. This heartfelt reunion offers a unique glimpse into Frank's personal growth and the evolving perspectives that come with age.

Listen in as we navigate the complexities of personal growth, from the challenges of fitting into conventional systems during adolescence to the exploration of diverse academic paths in college. We discuss the importance of questioning rules, the impact of parental support, and the shift from a career in international diplomacy to entrepreneurial ventures. The conversation underscores the significance of embracing discomfort for continuous growth, highlighting how new experiences and stepping outside our comfort zones can foster personal development and happiness.

Throughout the episode, we reflect on the power of setting goals and the motivation drawn from surrounding oneself with ambitious individuals. We share insights into mastering work-life balance, productivity, and the nuances of remote work, emphasizing the importance of personal accountability and self-reliance in today's world. The discussion also touches on societal comfort, the challenges of men's mental health, and the role of camaraderie in fostering open conversations and support networks.

Join us on this captivating episode of Unturned Stones as we reconnect with my long-time friend, Jared Hinsenkamp. Our journey together started in seventh grade and blossomed through our shared passion for wrestling. Jared opens up about his upbringing in Milwaukee, detailing his family dynamics with his firefighter father, teacher's aide mother, and his relationships with his three brothers and one sister. He shares the unique challenges and bonds formed as the youngest sibling and reflects on how their relationship evolved over time.

We explore Jared's career transitions, from a high-stress role in the Street Crimes Unit of the Milwaukee Police Department to becoming a Milwaukee Firefighter. Jared provides an honest look at the toll late shifts and dangerous assignments took on his personal life, especially as a new father. We also touch on his initial aspirations to become a civil engineer, his college experience, and the turns that led him to public service. Through candid discussions, Jared highlights the importance of making informed career choices and the impact of those decisions on family and personal well-being.

From nostalgic childhood memories to the trials and triumphs of parenting, our conversation is a compelling mix of personal anecdotes and profound reflections. Jared's journey underscores the value of supportive relationships and the powerful role of brotherhood, particularly in fields where trust and camaraderie are vital for mental well-being. Whether you're interested in career transitions, the impact of physical activity on emotional health, or the intricacies of co-parenting, this episode promises a thought-provoking and emotionally engaging experience. Join us for an intimate look at how shared experiences can foster growth, resilience, and emotional maturity in the face of life's relentless challenges.

Step into the gripping world of law enforcement with George Opelt, as he shares a lifetime's worth of experiences. His personal and professional saga is a testament to growth, resilience, and the relentless search for understanding. Uncover how formative relationships shape us, the humor in George's early career challenges, and the profound impact of critical incidents on a police officer's life.

Embark on a narrative that traverses the highs and lows of police work and the fundamental human experiences they intertwine with. George opens up about the camaraderie among officers, the emotional complexities of handling traumatic events, and the evolution from a rookie to a mature, confident individual. His story isn't just one of a man in uniform; it's about the bonds, the emotional milestones, and the personal development that resonate with all of us.

This episode is not just a peek behind the badge but also a broader exploration of male vulnerability, communication struggles, and the pursuit of mastery in high-stakes professions. George's narrative illustrates the multifaceted nature of law enforcement, from the intense pressures to the communal bonds that sustain those who serve. Tune in for an episode that not only paints a vivid portrait of a life in uniform but also delves into the universal challenges and triumphs that connect us all

In this episode we dive into Joe Wanner's life story, a narrative rich with Hawaiian heritage, familial bonds, and personal growth. Joe, eldest of six siblings, opens up about the complex interplay of cultural expectations, mental health challenges, and the relentless pursuit of success. From the basketball court to the corporate arena, Joe's experiences illuminate the strength and courage required to overcome adversity and the significance of emotional support throughout his journey.

Discover how Joe navigates the waters of cultural identity, the pressures of being the firstborn, and the transformative power of storytelling. His candid conversation with us is not just a reflection on his life's struggles and triumphs but also an invitation for listeners to introspect and find courage in their own paths. This episode is a testament to the resilience we can forge from our roots and the emotional triumphs that await when we embrace our vulnerabilities.

In this episode, I interview my friend, Ryan Baudhuin, a Marine Corps veteran and advocate for men's mental health, to discuss his personal growth and his journey of overcoming struggles. Ryan openly shares his experiences with substance abuse, PTSD, and how he found peace and purpose through hunting. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of a supportive community and the therapeutic power of nature.

What stands out in the conversation with Ryan is his candor. He brings to light, not just his struggle with alcoholism and eventual sobriety, but also his battle with PTSD. It's not every day that we meet someone willing to bear their soul as Ryan did. Delving deeper into his life, we discuss the joys and challenges of parenting, his encounter with grief, and his journey towards emotional maturity. Ryan shares insightful thoughts on handling cravings for alcohol, the importance of mindfulness, and the role of daily commitment to maintaining sobriety.

We also explore a range of topics in this episode. From the potential of psychedelics as medicines to the implications of globalization and cultural identity, we hope to provide a balanced perspective on these issues. Our discussion on traditional masculine roles, hunting, and the creation of brotherhood among veterans through hunting experiences is particularly enlightening. We wrap up with reflections on the power of discipline, the importance of staying present, and how every day presents a new opportunity for growth and self-improvement. Join us for this profound conversation and allow Ryan's journey to inspire you towards personal growth and resilience.