Get Deep Podcast

Jake Schrom - KBM President and entrepreneur! 

Kitchen, Baths & More (KBM). Hometown Fitness. Swass Block. Our guest this week is a hidden gem in the Mankato community - an adept entrepreneur with a wide range of expertise! From earliest childhood memories to making Cuban’s Cuts on Shark Tank, Jake takes us on a wild ride unlike any other. We enjoyed hearing our guest’s take on the most pivotal moments in his career (and his preparations for the future). Stay tuned for minute 1:16:26, where Jake shares the inside scoop on how Swass Block first began.

Joe Bach: VP of Business Development at MEI Total Elevator Solutions! Anything but an average Joe, our guest this week has a wealth of experience in leadership and cultivating a culture of growth at MEI. Joe shares what he’s retained after over a decade in the industry - from field operations to successful failures. We loved hearing about the projects MEI has spearheaded, including the (giant) Barclays Center elevator in Brooklyn - and so many more. Special thanks to Andy Wilke for guest hosting with Aaron this week! 

Brandon Smith: Vice President of Operations & Development at Tailwind Group! Join us as our guest this week breaks down the commercial real estate industry, sharing his insight into Tailwind’s unique expertise in off-campus student housing all across the country. From Brandon’s own college experience to his responsibilities today, we loved this discussion of growth and success in (often) uncharted waters. Stay tuned for minute 02:07:48, where Brandon gives his projections into the future of real estate - and Bill Gates’ farmland investments

Emily Schumacher: Miss Minnesota 2024! Join us for an incredible conversation with Mankato’s own Miss Minnesota. From her earliest local memories to her journey to Miss Minnesota, Emily takes us through her mission and goals for the future. Her dedication to raising awareness about heart health, CPR education, and nutrition left us deeply inspired. Next stop: Miss America! We can’t wait to see all that Emily accomplishes in the next year (and beyond). Stay tuned for minute 27:44, where our guest shares one of the most unexpected questions she’s been asked as a pageant contestant

The 100th episode of Get Deep: an ultimate recap with Aaron and Wes! Join us for a celebration of community, past episodes and craziest moments with your two favorite hosts. From small business strategies to the future of the podcast, strap in for an engaging discussion unlike any you’ve experienced before! Stay tuned for minute 2:07:10, where Aaron and Wes share their personal goals for Get Deep - and its next 100 episodes.

Jim Makovsky - head coach of MSU Maverick’s Wrestling Team! Our guest currently upholds a legendary wrestling program spanning decades. With a career rooted in grit and determination, Jim recounts his mentors and key moments that have helped define his trajectory. From rookie breakouts to unbelievable wins (and losses), Jim's story has it all! Stay tuned for minute 1:32:50, where our guest provides insight into the unique team dynamics of an inherently solo sport

Jen True: real estate titan, entrepreneur and community champion! Join us this week for an unforgettable discussion with an industry leader in properties. From her earliest beginnings on a horse farm just south of Mankato to her first forays into the brokerage arena, Jen recounts the wins and losses that have shaped her successes today. Stay tuned for minute 18:54, where our guest shares the unexpected manner in which she was first pitched a career in real estate!

Brian Taylor: Owner of Mankato Motors and Army National Guard veteran! Join us for one of our new favorite discussions with an automotive expert and awarded soldier. With a winning combination of deft interpersonal skills, work ethic and strength through adversity, Brian takes us through the key moments in his life that shaped his present success. Stay tuned for minute 1:39:20, where Brian shares his hot take on charging stations and electric vehicles.

Justin Ek: owner of 108 Alchemy, partner in Bellissimo Paint & Coatings, muralist, community event planning, artist in resident - and so much more! If it’s related to the arts culture in southern Minnesota, odds are really good that Justin is involved! With a true passion for fostering the community through visual expression, our guest this week shares how his shared family work ethic has shaped his approach to entrepreneurship. From going viral on social media to the role that color plays in his artistic method, we had a blast learning from this community leader. Thank you, Justin, for sharing your insights with us! 

Tyler Freyberg: fourth generation co-owner of Freyberg Petroleum with his brother Corey! From overseeing multiple gas stations to the newest venture of the Mankato Travel Center, Tyler has wide expertise in everything from managing vendors to striving for the highest quality of customer service. Our guest this week shares his secret for fostering healthy relationships within the family business, and what he’s learned from a decades-long career serving the community. Stay tuned for minute 1:17:04, where Tyler shares the story behind the earliest beginnings of the Mankato Travel Center