The Grist Mill

In this episode, Ken shows a sample website including some simple database application built with the vibe coding platform Replit. It shows and discusses how to set up Replit, some of the core features, the licensing models and the project itself.  This podcast is better to view on the podcast YouTube channel based on the fact it is a visual training session.   

In this podcast, Ken demonstrates a music composition technique where you start a song in the same way and let can take it in many different directions. The specifics here are that a song begins with a really simple introduction, the repetitive playing of an A followed by a G. From that point, the podcast demonstrates the initial composition up to the verse of four different chord patterns which a...

In this episode, which was a tad rushed at the end because Biscuit, Ken's dog, was scratching at the door :), Ken reviews some of the typical items to be aware of during a typical business week. This includes earnings releases, key product announcements or speeches from CEO's, Federal Reserve Bank actions or meeting minutes, and discussions via the government relating to important trade topics suc...

In this episode, Ken describes the value of continuous learning and some options for doing so, primarily in the technology field.  Resources mentioned include LinkedIn Learning, Database, Wolfram, Adobe and Canva.  The podcast briefly also touches on the value of online badging and promoting one's accomplishments on business social media.  

in this episode, Ken discusses some tips to help keep meetings and group sessions as productive as possible, focusing on the concept that your group culture is only as good as the worst behaviorual traits hat you tolerate. This is not easy to do, so some practical tips are offered to try to do corrective actions in a private, kind, uplifting manner.

In this podcast, Ken reviews some suggestions for effective online meetings.   This includes items like preparation, respecting time, appropriate attire, posture and language, insuring one uses proper titles and etiquette when referring to other parties, and some other do's and don'ts.   We hope the recommendations are beneficial.   

In this episode, Ken discussed two topics, both based on recent CNBC articles.   One is the need to upskill in AI given the trend towards lower hiring levels for college grad type roles, if not all roles, in a company.   The second article was one about the value of learning and using the names of those around you, for the purpose of making human connections.   The podcast closes by making the poi...

In this episode, Ken walks through the process of writing the chords for a song.   There are elements of discussion about song forms (this song is INTRO - CHORUS - VERSE - CHORUS - VERSE - BRIDGE - ALTERNATE VERSION OF CHORUS).  This is an episode of the podcast specifically designed for musicians writing songs -- others might enjoy it but we do want to set expectations for who might benefit most...

In this episode, Ken speaks to the importance of understanding and collecting customer expectations and tailoring a product or service offering to hopefully delight your customers.

In this episode, Ken speaks about his experience in the National Science Foundation I-Corps project exploring educational technology, the need to strive for continuous improvement and change in business, four historical examples of companies who did not adapt to change, and closes with some positive suggestions about how the higher educational industry can leverage their strengths and maximize opp...

In this podcast, Ken recaps the issues for college graduate hiring highlighted in a recent CNBC article from October 3, 2025.   He then provides four calls to action for young professionals in that demographic.  These are:   1) Try to double major.  Those are ways to show motivation and that you are a people capable of applying multiple levels of knowledge and skills to business problems. 2) Upski...

In this episode, Ken discussed the importance of making a strong first impression in business and in life.  Two examples are cited -- one which is an opportunity for improvement based on a recent hospital visit and a second which was a surprisingly exceptional first impression made at a recent church event.   The episode closes with a reminder to always focus on putting your best self forward duri...

in this episode, Ken begins to explore the topic of songwriting and utilizing different song forms. This is intended to be an introductory episode, with the intention of covering many of these topics in more detail in subsequent podcasts.

In today's episode, Ken reviews some strategies for getting to know a new group of professionals in meetings.   Tactics like how to learn names quickly, referring to individuals by name, being excited to be where you are, opening yourself up a bit personally and being an active listener to create connections and bonds, and being willing to take the time to work with and help others when asked is a...

In this episode, Ken, a Catholic Church Cantor for almost twenty years, reviews some techniques for singing the Responsorial Psalm, using the Psalm from the 26th Sunday In Ordinary Time as an example. The podcast focuses on some of the goals of the presentation, which shifts throughout the presentation from encouraging participation to encouraging active listening, to both praise and listen to the...

Episode 7 speaks to the challenges a class faced in installing Windsurf and related software for a vibe coding project.   Some were successful -- others less so -- but what was amazing was all the effort students put into the project.   They used YouTube, LinkedIn Learning, AI, Windsurf documentation and were really resourceful in trying to learning the software.  This followed exercises on MURF.A...

Episode 6 provides a quick recap of a lecture Ken recently offered on gig economy / side hustle opportunities for students and professionals - and how to use specific tech to enable one's goals in this area.  The main elements of the podcast are: CONCEPT 1. Be Inspired and Act with Urgency TECHNOLOGIES 2. Wyzant – Tutoring Platform 3. Upwork – Freelance Marketplace 4. Substack – Writing and Brand-...

In this episode, Ken shares the experience of finding a 19 year-old iPod, then finding the power chord for it (which was amazing), and what he discovered when scanning the music on the device -- a rediscovery of one of his favorite bands, Angels & Airwaves,  from long, long ago.    One of the songs, "The Adventure” is widely considered one of Angels & Airwaves’ most popular and iconic song...

Episode 4 - Grist Mill Podcast is a short podcast sharing a few tips on various tech tools and approaches for doing podcasts, this one was recording on Podbean with my cell phone.

The foundation of today’s episode is a brief take on some key issues in business ethics — the kinds of principles that can make or break careers, companies, and other business associations.  

Ken performing cover of Live Forever by Oasis

This is Episode 1, describing what the The Grist Mill Podcast is all about. Stay tuned for tons of content on business, technology, culture, ethics -- even sports and music and current events — which I hope will be useful, practical, informative and maybe even inspiring!