The Bullpen Podcast

On this episode of the Bullpen Podcast, Nate Johnson, Founder and CEO of GLSC, Inc. and Co-Founder of FR8MVMT, joins Andrew Rice for a conversation on leadership, sales, and performance in one of the most demanding industries out there. Nate shares lessons from building companies in transportation and logistics, including why great people matter more than perfect systems, how technology can create...

On this episode of the Bullpen, Brandon Vannelli, President and Co-Owner of Norco Precision, shares his journey of acquiring and leading a Twin Cities–based sheet metal manufacturing company. He reflects on the challenges of stepping into ownership, earning trust during a leadership transition, and maintaining Norco’s reputation for quality and responsiveness while scaling operations. Brandon high...

On this episode of the Bullpen, Jeff Bennett shares his journey from a corporate career in the medical device industry to founding Morari, a sexual wellness company. He discusses the challenges faced in developing a neuromodulation product for men's health, the importance of addressing stigmatized issues in men’s sexual performance and the role of innovation and how AI will play a part in Morari g...

In the fast-paced world of logistics, success hinges not just on speed and efficiency but also on the people behind the operations. In this episode of the Bullpen podcast, we sit down with Lacey Olson, the owner and chief manager of Transport Express, to explore her entrepreneurial journey across multiple industries. Lacey shares her insights on leadership, adaptability, and the importance of putt...

In this episode of the Bullpen podcast, host Dylan Boor interviews Nick Esparza, founder of the PM Network, discussing innovative approaches to remodeling and construction. Nick shares insights on how his company prioritizes transparency, client ownership, and effective communication to enhance the remodeling experience. He highlights the importance of trust, accountability, and adapting to the ev...

In this episode of the Bullpen podcast, Drew Cove interviews Patrick Fanning, CEO and Principal Engineer at Legacy Design and Development. They discuss the complexities of medical device innovation, the importance of being a growth partner rather than a traditional consultant, and the challenges startups face in bringing their ideas to market. Patrick shares insights on leadership, decision-making...

In this episode of the Bullpen podcast, Roxanne Jennings, President of EnviroStar Ingredients, shares her journey in the ingredient industry, focusing on the importance of spray drying, sustainability, and clean labels. She discusses the differences in client needs across food and pharmaceutical sectors, the significance of building a mechanically inclined team, and the values that guide her leade...

In this conversation, Chris Luger shares the inspiring story behind the Luger Foundation, which supports families facing NICU and pregnancy-related medical debt. He discusses the impact of personal experiences on his philanthropic journey, the importance of community engagement, and the lessons learned from running a nonprofit compared to corporate ventures. Chris also delves into his passion for...

In this conversation, Mike Swenson, president of Mel Foster, shares insights from his 40 years of leadership experience. He discusses the evolution of his leadership style, the impact of employee ownership on company culture, and the balance between tradition and innovation. Swenson highlights pivotal decisions, including an aggressive M&A strategy that transformed the company, and emphasizes...

In this episode of the Bullpen Podcast, Drew Cove interviews Cody Blades, founder of Blades Law, a Minnesota-based firm specializing in employment and business law. Cody shares her journey from working in firms to starting her own practice, emphasizing the importance of empowering clients and fostering a collaborative lawyer-client relationship. She discusses her dual focus on both employees and e...

In this episode, Seth Cogswell, the Managing Partner at Running Oak, shares insights into the firm’s mission to simplify clients’ lives through thoughtful investment strategies focused on return on risk. The conversation emphasizes the importance of simplicity, discipline, and resilience in both investment and leadership, highlighting a rules-based approach to managing risk and maximizing growth.

In this episode of the Bullpen Podcast, Andrew Rice interviews Peg Kinda, owner of Reliable Billing, who shares her journey in the medical billing industry. Peg discusses the importance of building trust with healthcare providers, the challenges faced during the pandemic, and how technology is transforming billing practices. She emphasizes the significance of community involvement and offers valua...

In this episode, Greg Ackerson, founder of InBYLT and Apex Water Solutions, shares insights on leadership, company culture, and the importance of purpose-driven business. He discusses the genesis of his companies, the core values that guide decision-making, and the evolution of his leadership style from seeking answers to fostering collaboration. Greg emphasizes the need for innovation while maint...

In this episode of the Bullpen Podcast, Drew Cove interviews Erkan Danis, founder and CEO of CargoCycle, who shares his journey from the automotive industry to creating innovative electric cargo bikes. The conversation explores the challenges of product design, market differentiation, and the importance of local manufacturing. Erkan discusses balancing the needs of different user groups, the futur...

In this conversation, Ross Williams, Chief Investment Officer at Deer Lake Strategic Management shares his journey from working in the investment industry to becoming an entrepreneur. He discusses his desire to create his own ideas and products rather than selling someone else’s. This transition involved gaining experience in trading firms before ultimately deciding to build something of his own t...

In this episode of the Bullpen Podcast, Drew Cove speaks with Andrew Ayers, an estate planning and business law attorney, about the importance of legal planning for both families and business owners. They discuss common misconceptions about estate planning, the overlap of family and business needs, the risks of DIY legal planning, and future trends in legal planning. Andrew emphasizes the need for...

In this episode of the Bullpen podcast, Dr. Maria, founder of EverYouth, shares her journey from patient to provider, emphasizing the importance of personalized wellness and anti-aging care. She discusses the significance of sleep, the ineffectiveness of one-size-fits-all approaches, and the connection between aesthetics and overall wellness. Dr. Maria also addresses common myths about aging, the...

In this insightful conversation, Andrew Rice interviews Drew Burch about security tech company Pro-Tec Design’s unique employee-owned structure, its impact on company culture, and the balance between cutting-edge technology and human-centric approaches. Drew shares strategies for driving growth, the importance of consistent training, and his leadership philosophy.

Andrew interviews Callie Murray, Founder and CEO of Wade-Murray Consulting, discussing the concept of fractional leadership, its advantages, and common misconceptions. Callie shares insights on branding, marketing strategies, and the future of fractional leadership. She emphasizes the importance of consistency in branding, intentional marketing efforts, and reputation management. Callie also talks...