Graham Veysey, Executive Director and Producer of Aspen Ideas Festival, joins us to explore the value of building community and designing meaningful experiences. As a serial entrepreneur, Graham brings a multidisciplinary mindset to leadership and neighborhood development. He reflects on life lessons from public service, creative partnerships with his wife, and cultivating spaces where connection thrives.  Key Takeaways:

(01:49) Graham chases the energy, and now leads the Aspen Ideas Festival.

(05:14) Chasing energy means turning meaningful ideas into tangible outcomes.

(09:50) Shared stories spark connections and build grassroots communities.

(12:22) Working with his wife adds balance, precision, and design thinking.

(13:56) A casual suggestion led to a standout bamboo art installation at the festival.

(16:06) A bold congressional run hinged on splitting the vote and outsider appeal.

(18:00) Graham returned to Cleveland seeking deeper roots.

(21:54) Fulfillment is raising happy, healthy kids and deepening family connection. Resources Mentioned:

Graham Veysey https://www.linkedin.com/in/grahamveysey/

Graham + Fisk's Wine-In-A-Can | Website https://grahamandfisk.com/

Aspen Ideas Festival https://www.aspenideas.org/

Partners In Health https://www.pih.org/

IDEO.org http://IDEO.org

Rising Star Coffee Roasters https://risingstarcoffee.com/

Thanks for joining us for the latest episode of “Day in a Canoe.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of our insightful conversations. If you’d like us to help you define what true wealth means to you, go to www.planningalt.com and take our assessment. Planning Alternatives is an investment advisory firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any opinions expressed may not reflect those of Planning Alternatives.

#Leadership #CommunityBuilding #DesignThinking #Entrepreneurship #Fulfillment

We’re joined by Matt Ward, Founder and CEO of 4WARD, a global platform connecting climate and sustainability innovators across industries. Matt shares his entrepreneurial journey from e-commerce ventures and manufacturing to purpose-driven work focused on building networks that accelerate climate solutions.

He explains how his drive for impact led to creating 4WARD.earth, a platform that fosters collaboration between startups, investors, researchers, and corporates across 60+ cities. Through this work, Matt challenges conventional thinking around consumption, fulfillment, and the role of community in solving big environmental challenges.  

Key Takeaways:

(01:34) How Matt left engineering for entrepreneurship after rejecting corporate life.

(04:07) Entrepreneurship isn’t for everyone. Follow advice from those ahead of you.

(08:01) How climate failure and global crisis drive 4WARD’s mission.

(10:48) Community grows form local to global through shared purpose.

(14:18) Reusing and shared ownership reduce waste more effectively than recycling alone.

(17:22) Repurposed EV batteries offer a practical alternative for energy storage.

(19:29) 4WARD connects sectors to cut carbon and boost impact.

Resources Mentioned:

4WARD website

Thanks for joining us for the latest episode of “Day in a Canoe.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of our insightful conversations.

If you’d like us to help you define what true wealth means to you, go to www.planningalt.com and take our assessment.

Planning Alternatives is an investment advisory firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any opinions expressed may not reflect those of Planning Alternatives.

#Sustainability #ClimateAction #Entrepreneurship #PurposeDriven #CleanTech

Our host Nathan Mersereau sits down with Jason Reid, Co-Founder of National Services Group, Inc., to discuss his journey into mental health advocacy following the loss of his son. Jason shares how this tragedy led him to create tools and programs to support families, schools, and companies in opening meaningful conversations around mental health. Jason explains how parents can take more ownership of their children’s mental wellness and how listening, without trying to fix anything, is the first step toward helping those in crisis. 

Key Takeaways:

(02:18) Jason shares the story behind the creation of Tell My Story after losing his son Ryan. (06:44) Mental illness is often invisible — comparable to any other disease. (09:34) We can’t fix mental health struggles; we can only be present and listen. (13:37) People in crisis seek a lifeline, not solutions. (15:23) The weight of the world — news, climate, conflict — affects children more than we realize. (16:32) A simple card deck sparks meaningful parent-child conversations. (17:26) Music becomes a non-threatening way to open emotional dialogue. (20:12) Stronger family connections are a surprising outcome of shared grief.

Resources Mentioned:

Jason Reid https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonrreid/

National Services Group, Inc. https://www.linkedin.com/company/national-services-group-inc./

Tell My Story https://www.tellmystory.org

"What I Wish My Parents Knew" https://tellmystory.org/our-programs/what-i-wish-my-parents-knew/

"The Hot Lava Game" TEDx Talk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p24x5mIIMeQ

Uplift at Work https://www.upliftatwork.com

Thanks for joining us for the latest episode of “Day in a Canoe.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of our insightful conversations. If you’d like us to help you define what true wealth means to you, go to www.planningalt.com and take our assessment. Planning Alternatives is an investment advisory firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any opinions expressed may not reflect those of Planning Alternatives.

#MentalHealthAwareness #SuicidePrevention #MentalHealthMatters #ParentingSupport #EmotionalWellbeing

On this episode, we’re joined by Jim Walberg, Realtor at Compass, who shares his profound insights on wealth, purpose, and the power of service. Jim's story is marked by transformative health experiences, a commitment to being of service, and a unique perspective on what true wealth means.

Key Takeaways:

(02:30) Jim reflects on his early career and the shift from employee benefits to real estate. 

(03:29) A life-changing prostate cancer diagnosis at 53 reshaped Jim’s outlook. 

(06:07) Jim recounts his near-death experience during surgery and the message he received.

(07:43) The importance of being present and listening to understand rather than interrupt. 

(08:51) Jim approaches real estate as a way to serve families during pivotal financial decisions. 

(14:17) The concept of ‘enough’ and resisting the pressure to accumulate wealth. 

(16:24) Family trust planning and creating meaningful experiences over leaving wealth. 

(19:04) Overcoming recent health challenges and recommitting to his purpose.

Resources Mentioned:

Jim Walberg https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimwalberg/

Compass https://www.linkedin.com/company/ballast-realty-group/

“Die With Zero” by Bill Perkins https://www.diewithzerobook.com/welcome

“Wealth in Families” by Charles W. Collier https://www.charlescollier.info/book

Thanks for joining us for the latest episode of “Day in a Canoe.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of our insightful conversations.

If you’d like us to help you define what true wealth means to you, go to www.planningalt.com and take our assessment.

Planning Alternatives is an investment advisory firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any opinions expressed may not reflect those of Planning Alternatives. #FinancialPlanning #PersonalGrowth #EntrepreneurshipInsights #FamilyWealthManagement #Work-LifeBalance

We’re joined by Jennifer Garrison, Assistant Professor at Buck Institute for Research on Aging and Co-Founder and Director of the Global Consortium for Reproductive Longevity and Equality. Jennifer shares her insights on aging, healthspan, and the critical differences between male and female reproductive aging. She discusses how understanding biological aging can help improve long-term health and quality of life.

Key Takeaways:

(02:10) How Jennifer’s career led her to the study of aging. (03:49) The brain is the last frontier in biology. (07:41) The hypothalamus is one of the hotspots for age-related inflammation. (10:34) The difference between lifespan and healthspan. (13:09) The pillars of effective healthspan planning. (16:33) How reproductive aging differs between men and women. (18:40) Why ovarian aging is key to women’s long-term health. (21:24) Proactively addressing shifts in health can lead to better aging outcomes.

Resources Mentioned:

Jennifer Garrison https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjennifergarrison/

Buck Institute for Research on Aging | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/buck-institute-for-research-on-aging/

Buck Institute for Research on Aging | Website https://www.buckinstitute.org/

Global Consortium for Reproductive Longevity and Equality https://www.gcrle.org/

Thanks for joining us for the latest episode of “Day in a Canoe.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of our insightful conversations.

If you’d like us to help you define what true wealth means to you, go to www.planningalt.com and take our assessment.

Planning Alternatives is an investment advisory firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any opinions expressed may not reflect those of Planning Alternatives.

#LeadershipDevelopment #PersonalGrowth #WorkLifeBalance #BusinessStrategy

We’re joined by Chris Stakich, Chief Community Officer at CEO Coaching International. Chris shares how his global career and deep-rooted family values shape his outlook on leadership, contribution, and fulfillment. He explores the shift from individual achievement to mentorship, the lessons learned from parenting and coaching, and the moments that define true wealth. From ski chairlift conversations with his sons to coaching youth football, Chris reflects on fully embracing life and giving back in meaningful, energizing ways.

Key Takeaways:

(02:12) Gaining perspective while studying abroad in Australia. (05:41) The cost of over-optimization in American culture. (07:36) Life stages shift us from doers to mentors. (09:28) Family connection grows through intentional questions and shared time. (11:45) Sacred family dinners build stronger future adults. (14:54) Valuing time as the highest form of giving. (15:50) Coaching boys to be strong, kind young men. (17:43) Teaching kids life’s foundational skills.

Resources Mentioned:

Chris Stakich https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisstakich/

CEO Coaching International | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/ceo-coaching-international/

CEO Coaching International | Website https://ceocoachinginternational.com/

“From Strength to Strength” by Arthur Brooks  https://arthurbrooks.com/from-strength-to-strength

Thanks for joining us for the latest episode of “Day in a Canoe.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of our insightful conversations.

If you’d like us to help you define what true wealth means to you, go to www.planningalt.com and take our assessment.

Planning Alternatives is an investment advisory firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any opinions expressed may not reflect those of Planning Alternatives.

#LeadershipDevelopment #PersonalGrowth #FamilyWealthManagement #Work-LifeBalance #ExecutiveCoaching

Steph Corker believes true wealth isn’t just about money — it’s about joy, connection, and living with purpose. As chief growth officer, and founder and former CEO of The Corker Collective, acquired by ViRTUS in 2024, Steph helps leaders build meaningful careers while staying aligned with their values. In this conversation, she shares insights on bravery, leadership, and why the smallest moments — like offering a gummy bear — can spark the biggest transformations. Key Takeaways:

(01:53) The unexpected canoe test — how a five-minute interview with Seth Godin shaped Steph’s perspective.

(04:49) The power of brave conversations and why Steph believes in packing curiosity (and gummy bears) for tough discussions.

(06:56) How a simple gummy bear can create openness and shift the tone of challenging conversations.

(11:24) Gardening as a leadership lesson — what Steph learned from turning her front lawn into a community garden.

(13:20) The concept of "missing greatness" — why some leaders struggle to recognize meaningful success.

(15:50) Finding fulfillment beyond titles and resumes — how Steph defines personal greatness.

(19:52) Looking ahead — Steph’s vision for her future self and how she’s shaping her life today to align with that vision.

(21:39) Why true wealth is about more than money — it’s about joy, relationships, and living with purpose.

Resources Mentioned:

Steph Corker https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephcorker/ ViRTUS https://www.linkedin.com/company/virtusinc/ The Corker Collective | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/thecorkerco/ The Corker Collective (acquired by ViRTUS) https://www.thecorkercollective.com/

Intelligent Change Journals https://www.intelligentchange.com/

Thanks for joining us for the latest episode of “Day in a Canoe.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of our insightful conversations. If you’d like us to help you define what true wealth means to you, go to www.planningalt.com and take our assessment. Planning Alternatives is an investment advisory firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any opinions expressed may not reflect those of Planning Alternatives.

#LeadershipDevelopment #PersonalGrowth #WorkLifeBalance #BusinessStrategy #EntrepreneurshipInsights

We’re joined by Doug Nordberg, Furniture Designer at Nordberg Furniture, on this episode. Doug started crafting furniture at age 12 and has become a celebrated designer in Cody, Wyoming. He reflects on the challenges of balancing art and business, the lessons learned from slow times, and the importance of financial planning in building a sustainable creative career. From embracing strong emotional reactions to his work to creating opportunities for innovation, Doug offers advice on living a fulfilling life as an artist.

Key Takeaways:

(01:37) Doug’s journey into furniture design began at age 12.

(02:23) The annual antler shedding cycle and its role in Doug’s work.

(05:07) Using early financial advice to shape an entrepreneurial path.

(07:16) Balancing artistry and business as both a designer and gallery owner.

(08:13) The importance of embracing strong reactions, even rejection, in art.

(10:55) Viewing slow business periods as opportunities for creativity and growth.

(13:59) The challenges of balancing passion with practicality.

(15:30) Advice for young artists: focus on passion and develop strong business skills.

(17:27) Defining true wealth as the freedom to focus on what truly matters.

Resources Mentioned: Doug Nordberg - https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-nordberg-8221a474/ Nordberg Gallery | Website - https://nordberggallery.com/ Western Design Conference - https://www.westerndesignconference.com

Thanks for joining us for the latest episode of “Day in a Canoe.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of our insightful conversations. If you’d like us to help you define what true wealth means to you, go to www.planningalt.com and take our assessment. Planning Alternatives is an investment advisory firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any opinions expressed may not reflect those of Planning Alternatives.

#FinancialPlanning #PersonalGrowth #EntrepreneurshipInsights #WorkLifeBalance #InvestmentStrategies

Joining us on this episode is photographer, writer, and filmmaker Audrey Hall, owner of Audrey Hall Photography. Audrey shares her journey from architecture to photography and her insights on balancing creative passion with financial success. She explores the interplay between art and business, emphasizing the value of both solitude and collaboration in her creative process.

Key Takeaways:

(01:29) Artists face misconceptions about valuing and monetizing their creative work.

(02:20) Pivoting from architecture to photography because of a desire for creative immediacy.

(05:28) The cost of photography reflects both the artist’s self-worth and market perception.

(07:06) A photographer’s insight on capturing the layered personalities of subjects.

(08:31) Valuing the interplay of collaboration and introspection in the creative process.

(09:54) Blending film and digital aesthetics in photography.

(11:53) Drawing inspiration from what it means to be a woman today.

(16:46) Defining wealth as having the freedom to care for oneself and one’s family.

Resources Mentioned:

Audrey Hall - https://www.linkedin.com/in/audreyhallphotography/

Audrey Hall Photography - https://www.audreyhall.com/

"Bison: Portrait of an Icon" by Chase Reynolds Ewald (Author) and Audrey Hall (Photographer) - https://a.co/d/9OyHpt9

Western Design Conference - https://westerndesignconference.com/

Thanks for joining us for the latest episode of “Day in a Canoe.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of our insightful conversations. If you’d like us to help you define what true wealth means to you, go to www.planningalt.com and take our assessment. Planning Alternatives is an investment advisory firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any opinions expressed may not reflect those of Planning Alternatives.

#FinancialPlanning #PersonalGrowth #EntrepreneurshipInsights #WorkLifeBalance #BusinessStrategy

Chrissy Glenn, Metal Sculptress, shares her journey from gallery curator to becoming a full-time artist working with metal. Inspired by nature and her apprenticeship with Val Bertoia, Chrissy explains how she found her passion for handmade metalwork and transformed it into wearable art.

Key Takeaways:

(01:40) Artistic ideas are sparked by immersion in natural environments.

(03:34) Designing functional yet aesthetic connectors posed a significant challenge to Chrissy.

(06:48) Exposure to oxyacetylene torches encouraged exploration of metal sculpting.

(08:31) Meeting other artists can fuel creativity and deepen art appreciation.

(11:44) The West’s unique culture encouraged Chrissy’s exploration of wearable metal art.

(14:25) Taking small steps toward your passion can open doors.

Resources Mentioned:

Chrissy Glenn -  https://www.chrissyglenn.com/

Metal Sculptress | Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chrissyglennsculptress/

Western Design Conference - https://westerndesignconference.com/

Kutztown University - https://www.kutztown.edu/

Val Bertoia Studio - https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/168085056602541/val-bertoia-studio/

Thanks for joining us for the latest episode of “Day in a Canoe.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss any of our insightful conversations. If you’d like us to help you define what true wealth means to you, go to www.planningalt.com and take our assessment. Planning Alternatives is an investment advisory firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any opinions expressed may not reflect those of Planning Alternatives.

#Personal Growth #Entrepreneurship Insights #Business Strategy