The Path Less Traveled Podcast

From crutches in her dad's RV company at 14 to receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award, Jenni Zachary's entrepreneurial journey defies expectations. Founding Transport US in the chaotic first month of 2020, she transformed a small RV transport business into a beacon of purpose-driven leadership. More than moving trailers, Jenni is revolutionizing transportation by championing opportunities for work...

Michael Behrens didn’t just inherit a family business, he reinvented it. At Complexus Medical, he transformed a small tool-and-die shop into a trusted manufacturer serving some of the most demanding orthopedic and spine companies in the country. In this episode, Michael shares candid lessons on leadership, independence, and building a culture that embraces innovation and accountability. If you’re...

Dive into the remarkable story of Turtle Top, a fifth-generation family business that has thrived for decades by prioritizing faith, family, and quality. Join Phil and Shane Tom as they reveal how they've navigated economic challenges, transformed company culture, and maintained their commitment to building exceptional vehicles and supporting their employees. This isn't just a business story, it's...

Join us as we sit down with Kreg Gruber, CEO of Beacon Health System - a growing regional healthcare leader now operating 11 hospitals, roughly 190 care sites and nearly 11,000 employees. Kreg’s journey from working in his family’s greenhouse as a child to steering a multi-community health system shows how situational leadership, human connection and community-rooted care can drive extraordinary r...

Joe Hart reveals the incredible story of transforming a near-bankrupt baseball team into a thriving community centerpiece, sharing raw insights about leadership, second chances, and the power of believing in your hometown. From facing skeptical newspaper comments to building a franchise that draws 300,000 fans annually, Joe's journey is a masterclass in turning potential failure into extraordinary...

Peg Dalton, owner of PEGGS Restaurant in South Bend, discusses her business journey, starting in 2001 with two partners and later buying them out with the help of First Source Bank. She emphasizes her mission statement: "People are at the heart of our business, and food is the way we serve them." Peg highlighted the importance of community partnerships, teamwork, and treating staff and customers w...

Wesley Mast, President of Coppes Napanee Cabinet Company, discusses the company's history, starting in 1876 with brothers John and Frank Coppes. Coppes innovated with the Lazy Susan in 1940 and supplied kitchens to celebrities. After a period of decline, Wesley and his brother Malachi revived the brand in 2017. They emphasize quality, customization, and innovation. Wesley highlighted the challenge...

Jeremy Lugbill, CEO of Career Academy Network of Public Schools, discusses his leadership journey and the school's achievements. Career Academy has experienced 230% enrollment growth and is a top career and technical education school. Jeremy emphasizes the importance of innovative teaching, strong teacher-student relationships, and preparing students for various career paths. He shared a personal...

Dr. Roger Pecina, founder of Afdent, discusses his journey from starting a dental practice in 1977 to building a national recognized business with 20 doctors and 300 employees. He emphasizes the importance of leadership, education, and patient care. Afdent averages 400 new patients monthly per location, compared to the typical 12. Roger highlighted his innovative financing program, which helps pat...

Matt Schrock, Vice President and part owner of DJ Construction, discusses the company's 71-year history and its focus on community impact, particularly addressing the fatherless epidemic. DJ Construction, founded by his grandfather and grandfather's brother, emphasizes excellence in construction alongside community service. Matt highlighted initiatives like sponsoring All Pro Dad events and hostin...

Duane Wilson, CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Northern Indiana, discussed his leadership journey and the club's growth from five to 38 locations, serving 4,300 kids. He emphasized the importance of solving community problems and maintaining a balance between mission and people. Duane highlighted his transition from COO to CEO, focusing on strategic planning and intentional growth. He shared his...

Brian Henry, President of the Robert Henry Corporation, discusses his journey and leadership philosophy in this episode. Brian emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement, public speaking, and networking. He highlighted the company's growth from a construction firm to a utility division, employing 240 people. He stresses the value of a flat organizational structure, family involvement, and...

Erin Cressy, Mickey Hay, and Anna McEachern discuss the founding and evolution of Cressy Leadership, which began in 2013. They emphasize their mission to build leadership capacity and transform businesses, guided by Simon Sinek's "Why" and "How." Their services include individual coaching, group training, and a Leadership Academy. They highlight success stories, such as a client that doubled in si...

Craig Heatherly, host of the "Path Less Traveled" podcast, is interviewed by a former podcast guest and President and Co-Founder of Senior1Care, Kyle Bossung. Craig discusses his journey from basketball to coaching, including his time at Davenport University, the University of North Dakota, and the University of Cincinnati. He transitioned to Gibson Insurance Agency, emphasizing the importance of...

Scott Flagle, founder of Avero Talent, discusseS his entrepreneurial journey, starting the company in early 2018. Avero Talent is a recruiting agency based in South Bend, Indiana focusing on technical and professional roles, primarily in manufacturing but expanding to construction and banking. The company has grown from two to nine employees, serving clients nationally. Scott emphasizes the import...

Dr. Marco Clark, President of Holy Cross College, discusses his leadership journey and the college's mission. Marco, who transitioned from Austin, Texas, to South Bend, Indiana, emphasizes Holy Cross's debt-free status, growing endowment, and focus on teaching over research. He highlights the college's history of supporting underserved students and its rapid growth. Marco also shares his underdog...

Shaun Phy, President/Integrator of C&S Machine, discusses the company's growth from a $15 million to a $36 million business in four years, with plans to reach $40 million. C&S Machine, founded in 1966, specializes in aerospace components and has grown to 150 employees. Shaun emphasizes the importance of investment in people, facilities, and equipment, with $30 million in CapEx over four ye...

Max Yeakey, co-owner of Premium Services, shares his journey from being a fireman to building a successful business. Starting in 2004, Premium Services evolved from concrete services to offering excavation, asphalt paving, fencing, and building trades. Max emphasizes the importance of determination, loyalty, and a strong work ethic. He highlighted the challenges of balancing business growth with m...

Tom Downey, President & CEO of EVS, discusses the company's evolution from a 1993 startup to a market leader with over 90% of North American ambulances using their products. EVS, founded by Mike Harmon, initially created a child seat integrated into ambulance seats, which evolved into a comprehensive seating solution. Tom highlights the company's transition to a 100% employee-owned ESOP, which...

Jeff Rea, the President and CEO of South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce, discusses the chamber's role in economic development, tourism, and business advocacy. The chamber serves 1,300 companies employing 60,000 people. Jeff emphasizes the importance of balancing immediate needs with long-term strategies, citing past successes like improving US 31 and advocating for higher education. He highligh...

We feature JB Brown and Jordan Brown from BCI Solutions. JB provides a history of BCI, founded in 1939, and its evolution into a diversified foundry and machining company. They discuss the challenges of leading a family business, including the importance of transparency, accountability, and adapting to change. JB shares his experiences with tough leadership decisions, while Jordan emphasizes the v...

Jacqueline Barton, President and Founder of Specialized Staffing, shares her journey of starting the company in 2001 after 11 years at a regional staffing firm. Inspired by personal challenges and a desire to create a thriving culture, she built a business with 30 employees across five offices in Michigan, Indiana, and Kansas. Jacqueline emphasized the importance of relationships, community servic...

Matt Harrington, President and CEO of Logan Center, discusses his journey and Logan Center's impact. Logan Center, celebrating its 75th anniversary, serves 1,600 individuals annually across various settings. Matt emphasizes the transition from sheltered workshops to competitive job placements, highlighting the organization's role in fostering inclusion and acceptance. He shares his personal passio...

Amish Shah, CEO of Kem Krest, shared his journey of growing the company from $1 million in revenue to $650 million over 29 years. He emphasized the power of intentionality, presence, and community impact in leadership. Amish credited mentors like Craig Fullmer and Rudy Yakym for shaping his leadership philosophy and discussed his strategies for balancing work and family life, including weekly jour...

Ashley Martin, President and CEO of NIBCO, shared insights into the company's 120-year journey, from its origins as the Northern Indiana Brass Company to its evolution into a fifth-generation, employee-owned business. With 15 manufacturing plants worldwide, NIBCO remains at the forefront of innovation in the plumbing industry, striving toward its ambitious goal of reaching $1 billion in revenue. h...