Kansas City Business Cast

This is an experimental episode. Might delete later.

In episode 100, host Michael Risinger reflects on how a podcast launched after his 2023 layoff grew into a source of relationships, confidence, and unexpected opportunities. He shares lessons on consistency, creative courage, and building a platform with purpose, then outlines KCBC’s next chapter.

Chapters:

00:00 Celebrating 100 episodes and three years of KCBC

01:00 The 2023 layoff that sparked a new direction

02:50 Why Michael began recording Kansas City business owners

04:41 Believing before seeing and learning through the reps

07:23 Unexpected support, sponsorships, and relationships

09:47 Jiu-Jitsu, family, and a 55-pound health change

12:33 From podcast conversations to commentating local fights

15:44 Being the least likely candidate and leaning into discomfort

20:20 Reframing hardship and staying focused on supporters

23:44 Advice for creators: strong why, grace, and consistency

29:04 Kaizen, Hansei, and learning from imperfect episodes

33:12 Choose your headspace and the fruit of what you create

36:08 KCBC’s next chapter: solo shows, music, and in-person plans

40:25 Family, Jiu-Jitsu, music, and closing out episode 100

Our Sponsor:

VAS LLC - Book a free consult call by messaging us on Facebook or LinkedIn. Learn about how our small business growth coaching services can help you improve your processes, increase value-added activity, and reduce your operational waste. Email: [email protected]

KCBC Info:

• Media Inquiries: direct message us on Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook

• Instagram (our main page): https://www.instagram.com/kcbc913

• YouTube: https://www.instagram.com/kcbctv

• YouTube: @KCBCtv

• Spotify: Kansas City Business Cast

• Apple Podcasts: Kansas City Business Cast

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kcbc913816

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kcbctv

• Hire VAS LLC Business Coaching: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vasllc

This was recorded @kcbctv studio.

The information and opinions presented by our guests do not reflect the opinions of Kansas City Business Cast (KCBC), Kansas City Business Cast Network (KCBCtv), or its affiliates & sponsors. Sometimes we talk about finance, health, wellness, philosophy, history, the economy, religion, and other topics. This episode, as with all of our episodes, is intended for educational purposes.

#contentcreator #podcasting #creator #continuousimprovement #leadership

A prevented road rage moment turns into a wake-up call about something bigger: our peace is under constant attack, and keeping it intact is a daily discipline. If you’ve been carrying stress, noise, and burnout all week, this quick episode gives you a practical reset for protecting your mental space before it slips away. Michael opens with a tense real-life encounter that could have gone very differently, then uses it to unpack the hidden cost of living in a world full of distractions, opinions, news, work pressure, and constant mental overload. The question isn’t how to eliminate the noise. It’s how to move through it without losing yourself.

Our Sponsor:

VAS LLC - Book a free consult call by messaging us on Facebook or LinkedIn. Learn about how our small business growth coaching services can help you improve your processes, increase value-added activity, and reduce your operational waste. Email: [email protected]

KCBC Info:

• Media Inquiries: direct message us on Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook

• Instagram (our main page): https://www.instagram.com/kcbc913

• YouTube: https://www.instagram.com/kcbctv

• YouTube: @KCBCtv

• Spotify: Kansas City Business Cast

• Apple Podcasts: Kansas City Business Cast

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kcbc913816

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kcbctv

• Hire VAS LLC Business Coaching: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vasllc

This was recorded @kcbctv studio.

The information and opinions presented by our guests do not reflect the opinions of Kansas City Business Cast (KCBC), Kansas City Business Cast Network (KCBCtv), or its affiliates & sponsors. Sometimes we talk about finance, health, wellness, philosophy, history, the economy, religion, and other topics. This episode, as with all of our episodes, is intended for educational purposes.

#ProtectYourPeace #MentalHealth #Discipline #Noise #StressManagement

Michael Risinger shares insights on making big life changes, handling criticism, and the importance of sharing your progress with others. This episode emphasizes the value of continuous improvement and community support.

Our Sponsor:

VAS LLC - Book a free consult call by messaging us on Facebook or LinkedIn. Learn about how our small business growth coaching services can help you improve your processes, increase value-added activity, and reduce your operational waste. Email: [email protected]

KCBC Info:

• Media Inquiries: direct message us on Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook

• Instagram (our main page): https://www.instagram.com/kcbc913

• YouTube: https://www.instagram.com/kcbctv

• YouTube: @KCBCtv

• Spotify: Kansas City Business Cast

• Apple Podcasts: Kansas City Business Cast

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kcbc913816

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kcbctv

• Hire VAS LLC Business Coaching: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vasllc

This was recorded @kcbctv studio.

The information and opinions presented by our guests do not reflect the opinions of Kansas City Business Cast (KCBC), Kansas City Business Cast Network (KCBCtv), or its affiliates & sponsors. Sometimes we talk about finance, health, wellness, philosophy, history, the economy, religion, and other topics. This episode, as with all of our episodes, is intended for educational purposes.

#progress #continuousimprovement #change #positivechange #knowledgetransfer

In this episode, Michael Risinger explores how midlife crises can show up in different ways, from health and family to purpose and personal growth. He shares a simple but powerful perspective on how these seasons can either derail us or push us toward something better.

But the real question is: how do you know when a crisis is actually the beginning of a breakthrough?

Our Sponsor:

VAS LLC - Book a free consult call by messaging us on Facebook or LinkedIn. Learn about how our small business growth coaching services can help you improve your processes, increase value-added activity, and reduce your operational waste. Email: [email protected]

KCBC Info:

• Media Inquiries: direct message us on Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook

• Instagram (our main page): https://www.instagram.com/kcbc913

• YouTube: https://www.instagram.com/kcbctv

• YouTube: @KCBCtv

• Spotify: Kansas City Business Cast

• Apple Podcasts: Kansas City Business Cast

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kcbc913816

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kcbctv

• Hire VAS LLC Business Coaching: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vasllc

This was recorded @kcbctv studio.

The information and opinions presented by our guests do not reflect the opinions of Kansas City Business Cast (KCBC), Kansas City Business Cast Network (KCBCtv), or its affiliates & sponsors. Sometimes we talk about finance, health, wellness, philosophy, history, the economy, religion, and other topics. This episode, as with all of our episodes, is intended for educational purposes.

#MidlifeReboot #GrowthMindset #EmbraceChange #Kaizen #MidlifeCrisis

In this episode, Michael interviews Mark “Chop” Stancil about his journey through addiction, recovery, and maintaining 16 years sobriety from hard drugs and alcohol. Chop is a brown belt jiu jitsu practitioner out of Pirata Jiu Jitsu in Independence, MO. He is also a coach, realtor, and the founder of Sober Gang, a community of individuals choosing sobriety from drugs and alcohol.

Michael and Chop explore the impact of faith, community, and personal discipline in overcoming substance abuse and building a purposeful life.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction

00:28 Meet Chop: His background and diverse life experiences

04:14 Chop’s childhood and early exposure to drugs

08:14 The moment Chop decided to quit meth at 17

17:37 Chop’s spiritual awakening and giving his life to Jesus

22:04 The role of faith in his recovery journey

25:00 Changing associations and environment for sobriety

30:32 Support from loved ones and community in recovery

37:21 The vision behind Sober Gang and future plans

43:12 The impact of jujitsu and community support

45:54 Living intentionally and valuing relationships

47:40 Final words of encouragement and purpose

48:28 How to connect with Chop and support Sober Gang

Connect with Chop:

• Facebook / Public Profile: https://www.facebook.com/chop.chop.35574/about

• Sober Gang: https://www.instagram.com/the.sober.gang or @the.sober.gang on Instagram

Our Sponsor:

VAS LLC - Book a free consult call by messaging us on Facebook or LinkedIn. Learn about how our small business growth coaching services can help you improve your processes, increase value-added activity, and reduce your operational waste. Email: [email protected]

KCBC Info:

• Media Inquiries: direct message us on Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook

• Instagram (our main page): https://www.instagram.com/kcbc913

• YouTube: https://www.instagram.com/kcbctv

• YouTube: @KCBCtv

• Spotify: Kansas City Business Cast

• Apple Podcasts: Kansas City Business Cast

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kcbc913816

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kcbctv

• Hire VAS LLC Business Coaching: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vasllc

This interview was recorded @kcbctv studio, and the guest’s own studio environment.

Outro music by Karl Casey / @whitebataudio

The information and opinions presented by our guests do not reflect the opinions of Kansas City Business Cast (KCBC), Kansas City Business Cast Network (KCBCtv), or its affiliates & sponsors. Sometimes we talk about finance, health, wellness, philosophy, history, the economy, religion, and other topics. This episode, as with all of our episodes, is intended for educational purposes.

Correction for this episode: Michael stated "80 Billion Deaths" which was not correct. The claim of 8 million deaths due to alcohol each year is an overestimate. Current statistics indicate that approximately 2.6 million deaths annually are attributable to alcohol consumption globally, accounting for about 4.7% of all deaths. This figure includes deaths from alcohol-related diseases, accidents, and other health complications.

#sobriety #addiction #sobergang #alcoholism #recoveryfromaddiction

Sometimes, the most overlooked truth can change everything: Everyone is rooting for you.

What if you knew that, deeply felt, and let it fuel your journey? In this quick yet powerful episode, host Michael Risinger uncovers the surprising, often hidden support system that surrounds us (whether we notice it or not) and how embracing this mindset can ignite your confidence, resilience, and success.

From a heartfelt story of overcoming layoffs and rock-bottom moments to a random shoutout at a local jiu jitsu tournament, Michael reveals why we need to stop focusing on who isn’t cheering and start appreciating those who truly uplift us. You’ll discover how recognizing your quiet supporters can energize your pursuits, inspire your grit, and remind you that your community’s encouragement is often stronger than you think.

He breaks down the remarkable impact of simple recognition: hearing that someone is proud of your progress, or realizing you're being cheered on when least expected. Michael shares personal lessons, the importance of celebrating small wins, and why every creator, entrepreneur, or dreamer should reframe how they see support.

If you’ve ever felt alone in your hustle, this episode is your reminder that you’re not, and your biggest fans might be closer than you think.

Mentioned in this Episode: “The harshest truth every young man must learn” by Denzel Rust

Our Sponsor:

VAS LLC - Book a free consult call by messaging us on Facebook or LinkedIn. Learn about how our small business growth coaching services can help you improve your processes, increase value-added activity, and reduce your operational waste. Email: [email protected]

KCBC Info:

• Media Inquiries: direct message us on Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook

• Instagram (our main page): https://www.instagram.com/kcbc913

• YouTube: https://www.instagram.com/kcbctv

• YouTube: @KCBCtv

• Spotify: Kansas City Business Cast

• Apple Podcasts: Kansas City Business Cast

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kcbc913816

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kcbctv

• Hire VAS LLC Business Coaching: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vasllc

This was recorded @kcbctv studio.

The information and opinions presented by our guests do not reflect the opinions of Kansas City Business Cast (KCBC), Kansas City Business Cast Network (KCBCtv), or its affiliates & sponsors. Sometimes we talk about finance, health, wellness, philosophy, history, the economy, religion, and other topics. This episode, as with all of our episodes, is intended for educational purposes.

#motivation #consistency #support #theywerealwaysrootingforyou #denzelrust

In this episode, Dennis Ortiz shares his journey of faith, resilience, and community impact, highlighting how trust in God and continuous improvement have shaped his path. Discover lessons on leadership, service, and creating opportunities in inner-city food deserts.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Dennis's background

02:24 Overcoming technical difficulties and live faith

04:37 Dennis's early influences and grandmother's wisdom

08:36 Living with purpose and trusting God's plan

12:02 The journey of continuous improvement and Kaizen

13:59 Grand opening of United Market and community impact

16:52 Reinvention during COVID and new opportunities

22:18 Community engagement and service in the inner city

25:54 Trusting the process and divine timing

29:36 Faith and manifestation in practical life

33:50 Living authentically and embracing identity

40:34 The story of a homeless young man from the inner city

43:48 The importance of service and compassion

50:43 Supporting Dennis Ortiz and his projects

01:00:18 Connecting and supporting community initiatives

Connect with Dennis:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dennis_ortiz_biz or @dennis_ortiz_biz

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennis-ortiz-mba-7ab76347/

• Ozone Lair Media YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ozonelairmedia

• Ozone Lair Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ozone_lair_media or @ozone_lair_media

• Shop at United Market: https://unitedmarketkc.com/

• Cordura Real Estate: https://www.cordurare.com

Our Sponsor:

VAS LLC - Book a free consult call by messaging us on Facebook or LinkedIn. Learn about how our small business growth coaching services can help you improve your processes, increase value-added activity, and reduce your operational waste. Email: [email protected]

KCBC Info:

• Media Inquiries: direct message us on Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook

• Instagram (our main page): https://www.instagram.com/kcbc913

• YouTube: https://www.instagram.com/kcbctv

• YouTube: @KCBCtv

• Spotify: Kansas City Business Cast

• Apple Podcasts: Kansas City Business Cast

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kcbc913816

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kcbctv

• Hire VAS LLC Business Coaching: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vasllc

This interview was recorded @kcbctv studio, and the guest’s own studio environment.

The information and opinions presented by our guests do not reflect the opinions of Kansas City Business Cast (KCBC), Kansas City Business Cast Network (KCBCtv), or its affiliates & sponsors. Sometimes we talk about finance, health, wellness, philosophy, history, the economy, religion, and other topics. This episode, as with all of our episodes, is intended for educational purposes.

#realestate #fooddeserts #contentcreator #faith #podcastcreator

In this episode, Michael talks with Owen Marsden, co-creator of HootFlight, a free educational website for kids that helps make flying more fun, understandable, and engaging.

Owen shares how he and his wife Sarah built the project together, why they started it, how they used AI to help bring it to life, and the values that shaped their decisions around privacy, ads, and monetization.

They also dig into the role of AI in creative work, the balance between progress and perfection, and how small side projects can strengthen relationships and spark new ideas..

Plus, Owen explains how Captain Hoot helps kids learn about their flights, the places they’ll pass over, and the wonder of travel in a way that encourages real-world curiosity.

Chapters:

0:00 — Welcome and introduction to Owen Marsden

2:27 — What HootFlight

4:40 — Where the idea came from

5:00 — Building the project after bedtime

8:44 — Sarah’s design role and early collaboration

9:13 — Using Claude to ideate and build

11:38 — Where the flight data comes from

14:19 — Time, effort, and the AI-only computer

19:57 — What AI taught them during the build

24:50 — Using AI to strengthen human connection

27:31 — Mixed feelings about AI

34:35 — Challenges, analysis paralysis, and deciding when to ship

39:15 — Feedback from users and the “what you’ll fly over” feature

41:13 — Launching without pressure

45:58 — Why HootFlight is not monetized

50:47 — Parenting, media, and child safety

54:08 — Closing thoughts and final reflections

57:09 — How to connect with Owen and HootFlight

Use HootFlight for free (no signup, no ads):

• Get your kids excited about your upcoming flight: https://www.hootflight.com

• Connect with Owen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/owen-marsden-50424329

Our Sponsor:

VAS LLC - Book a free consult call by messaging us on Facebook or LinkedIn. Learn about how our small business growth coaching services can help you improve your processes, increase value-added activity, and reduce your operational waste. Email: [email protected]

KCBC Info:

• Media Inquiries: direct message us on Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook

• Instagram (our main page): https://www.instagram.com/kcbc913

• YouTube: https://www.instagram.com/kcbctv

• YouTube: @KCBCtv

• Spotify: Kansas City Business Cast

• Apple Podcasts: Kansas City Business Cast

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kcbc913816

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kcbctv

• Hire VAS LLC Business Coaching: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vasllc

This interview was recorded @kcbctv studio, and the guest’s own studio environment.

The information and opinions presented by our guests do not reflect the opinions of Kansas City Business Cast (KCBC), Kansas City Business Cast Network (KCBCtv), or its affiliates & sponsors. Sometimes we talk about finance, health, wellness, philosophy, history, the economy, religion, and other topics. This episode, as with all of our episodes, is intended for educational purposes.

#flying#commercialairlines #flights #airplanes #familyflights

Reflections on the nature of support and acknowledgment in relationships, particularly in the context of networking, volunteering, business, content creation, podcasting, and intentional networking.

Listeners of this one are encouraged to reflect on their relationships and to appreciate those who reciprocate support, while also recognizing that not everyone will respond positively to their efforts.

Our Sponsor:

VAS LLC - Book a free consult call by messaging us on Facebook or LinkedIn. Learn about how our small business growth coaching services can help you improve your processes, increase value-added activity, and reduce your operational waste. Email: [email protected]

KCBC Info:

• Media Inquiries: direct message us on Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook

• Instagram (our main page): https://www.instagram.com/kcbc913

• YouTube: https://www.instagram.com/kcbctv

• YouTube: @KCBCtv

• Spotify: Kansas City Business Cast

• Apple Podcasts: Kansas City Business Cast

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kcbc913816

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kcbctv

• Hire VAS LLC Business Coaching: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vasllc

This interview was recorded @kcbctv studio.

Outro music by Karl Casey / @whitebataudio

The information and opinions presented by our guests do not reflect the opinions of Kansas City Business Cast (KCBC), Kansas City Business Cast Network (KCBCtv), or its affiliates & sponsors. Sometimes we talk about finance, health, wellness, philosophy, history, the economy, religion, and other topics. This episode, as with all of our episodes, is intended for educational purposes.

#podcasting #contentcreation #contentcreator #relationships #support