Kansas City Business Cast

"As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." Proverbs 27:17 NIV

"When you know the way broadly, you see it in all things." Miyamoto Musashi

In this episode, Michael Risinger interviews Heath “Val” Chitwood, a good friend and black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Val shares his journey from being a bodyguard in Iraq to finding a new identity through martial arts, and then ultimately within Jesus Christ.

Val discusses the profound impact Jiu Jitsu has had on his personal life, relationships, and professional career. He emphasizes the importance of consistency, goal setting, and the supportive community within Jiu Jitsu. Val also reflects on the challenges of social media and the significance of elevating those around him, particularly men, to foster a stronger community.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Jiu-Jitsu and Personal Journeys

08:27 Val's Journey into Jiu-Jitsu

11:48 The Impact of Jiu-Jitsu on Personal Life

22:37 Jiu-Jitsu as a Tool for Problem Solving

29:46 Business Lessons from Jiu-Jitsu

34:25 The Unique Perspective of Wrestlers in Jiu-Jitsu

36:35 Problem Solving in Business and Jiu-Jitsu

42:33 The Power of Word of Mouth Over Social Media

49:24 The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

52:54 Setting Goals and Elevating Others

01:00:19 The Importance of Relationships and Family Support

01:05:51 Subscribe

Get a week trial in BJJ, come to an open mat, or get a quote on your roofing project:

• TMC BJJ KC Website: https://tmcbjj.com/

• TMC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tmcbjj_hq or @tmcbjj_hq

• TMC Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TMCBJJKansasCityHQ

• Balanced Roofing KC: https://balanceroofingkc.com

Our Sponsor for Season 6:

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 and reduce operational waste in your small business. Email: [email protected]

KCBC Info:

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

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

• KCBCtv (our sponsoring network): 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/kcbc913

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

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

Music: “Hackers” by Karl Casey / White Bat Audio @whitebataudio on YouTube and Instagram.

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.

In this episode of Kansas City Business Cast, host Michael Risinger interviews Justin Watkins, CEO of Native Digital and host of the Here to There Podcast. They discuss the journey of building a successful marketing agency, the importance of team dynamics, and the challenges Native Digital has faced. Justin shares insights on embracing AI in marketing, the significance of data-driven decision-making, and the evolving landscape of content and platforms. The conversation also touches on networking, personal motivation, and the future of Native Digital as they continue to adapt and innovate in the advertising & marketing spaces.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Kansas City Business Cast and Guest

03:21 The Journey of Building Native Digital

06:19 Team Dynamics and Leadership Philosophy

09:40 Navigating the Great Resignation and Hiring Challenges

12:32 Embracing Change: The Impact of AI on Marketing

18:19 Data-Driven Decision Making in Marketing

30:15 Building a Data-Driven Marketing Team

30:42 The Importance of Measurement in Marketing

32:06 Understanding Results and Client Expectations

33:53 Creating a Measurement Plan for Success

35:47 Testing and Attribution in Marketing

38:09 Leveraging Clean Data for AI and Marketing

39:57 Identifying Emerging Platforms for Marketing

40:50 Content Strategy vs. Platform Strategy

42:46 Networking and Building Relationships in Marketing

43:29 The Evolution of Networking Mindsets

48:55 Finding Inspiration and Motivation

53:37 Future Vision for Native Digital

58:40 Subscribe.

Learn more about Justin, his podcast, & Native Digital:

• ​ Follow Justin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinwatkins
• ​ Website: https://www.nativegitial.com
• ​ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/native-digital-llc/
• ​ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nativedigital_
• ​ From Here to There Podcast with Justin Watkins: https://open.spotify.com/show/02ehpwDbS4GPA34P3WT8AY?si=3f0c4ccb619f474b

Our Sponsor for Season 6:

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 and reduce operational waste in your small business. Email: [email protected]

KCBC Info:

• ​ Media Inquiries: direct message us on Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook
• ​ Instagram (our main page): https://www.instagram.com/kcbc913
• ​ KCBCtv (our sponsoring network): 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/kcbc913
• ​ Hire VAS LLC Business Coaching: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vasllc

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

Music: “Hackers” by Karl Casey / White Bat Audio @whitebataudio on YouTube and Instagram.

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.

In this episode of Kansas City Business Cast, host Michael Risinger welcomes Tyler McDowell from Black Magic TV and Zoinkpad!

The conversation explores Tyler's journey from overcoming personal struggles, including time spent in prison, to becoming a successful business owner and influencer in Kansas City. They discuss the importance of creativity in entrepreneurship, the challenges of building a print shop, and the significance of mentorship and community engagement.

Tyler also reflects on community engagement through artistic projects and the evolution of his media platform, Black Magick TV. The discussion emphasizes the challenges and opportunities in navigating the business side of creativity while staying true to one's vision.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Unique Vibes

03:25 Personal Journeys: Overcoming Addiction

06:20 The Transition to Entrepreneurship

09:33 Creative Processes and Artistic Expression

12:26 Building Community Through Art and Business

15:22 The Evolution of ZoinkPad and Collaborative Projects

27:00 The Journey Begins: From Idea to Action

39:21 Building a Business: Lessons Learned and Growth

50:15 Collaboration and Community: The Power of Connections

52:24 Rebranding and Business Identity

55:16 The Future of Blackmagic TV

01:01:36 The Art of Tough Love in Business

01:10:06 Authenticity and Attracting the Right People

01:12:43 Subscribe.

Follow Tyler with Zoinkpad and Black Magick TV:

• https://www.instagram.com/zoinkpad or @zoinkpad

• https://www.instagram.com/blackmagicktv or @blackmagicktv

• https://www.youtube.com/@blackmagicktv or @blackmagicktv

Our Sponsor for Season 6:

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 and reduce operational waste in your small business. Email: [email protected]

KCBC Info:

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

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

• KCBCtv (our sponsoring network): 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/kcbc913

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

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

Music: “Hackers” by Karl Casey / White Bat Audio @whitebataudio on YouTube and Instagram.

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.

In this very special live broadcast on Vital Vibrations Radio, DJ Jamms interviews Michael Risinger. They talked about the origins of KCBC, Michael’s connections to underground punk and metal as a former signed, touring musician, and how all of it ties together with Kansas City Business Cast.

We want to give a very special thanks to DJ Jamms, Vital Vibrations Radio, and the whole team at KKFI 90.1 FM for providing such a seamless, well-promoted, and hospitable experience at their studio.

Look out for an appearance of DJ Jamms on KCBC coming up in Season 6!

Songs requested by Michael on the air, and not appearing in this episode due to copyright restrictions:

• “Prayer” by Sevendust (did you know their vocalist is based in Kansas City?!)

• “Warrior’s Don’t Cry” by Beres Hammond

Listen to/support Vital Vibrations Radio and KKFI:

• Kansas City residents tune into 90.1 FM on Tuesdays 12pm-2pm CST to listen to VVR

• VVR Instagram: www.instagram.com/vitalvibrationsradio or @vitalvibrationsradio

• KKFI Instagram: www.instagram.com/kkfi901fm or @kkfi901fm

• KKFI’s website: www.kkfi.org

• KKFI YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/kkfi901fm

• Listen to KKFI’s archives for VVR and all of their other shows: www.archive.kkfi.org

Our Sponsor for Season 6:

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 and reduce operational waste in your small business. Email: [email protected]

KCBC Info:

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

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

• KCBCtv (our sponsoring network): 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/kcbc913

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

This interview was recorded via live broadcast on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at KKFI studios in Kansas City, MO. Huge thanks to DJ Jamms for providing the KCBC team with the recording!

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.

Clark Rooseveltte joins host Michael Risinger for the second time on KCBC. His first appearance was on episode 15 (still holds up!). Everybody loves Clark. If you don’t know him, you need to know him!

In this riff session, the guys discuss Clark's journey with Clever World Goods and Supply, his commitment to sustainability through upcycling, and the lessons he's learned about running a business.

The conversation also delves into the importance of community, collaboration, and the grace we should extend to others in life's challenges. Clark's vibrant personality and passion for making Kansas City shine are evident throughout the discussion, making it a heartfelt exploration of personal and professional growth. Clark covers his personal struggles, the importance of grace and forgiveness, and the lessons learned from the Bible and nature.

They emphasize the need for men to support each other, the role of brotherhood in personal growth, and the impact of societal expectations on relationships. The discussion also touches on the importance of teaching the next generation about vulnerability and safety in a world filled with challenges.

Chapters:

00:00 Clark Roosevelt's Journey and Business Evolution

02:36 The Impact of Upcycling and Fashion Shows

05:26 Sustainability and Business Acumen

08:19 The Power of Personal Branding

11:03 Lessons Learned in Business

13:57 Community and Collaboration at 8-11 Space

26:12 Creating Connections in Entrepreneurship

28:45 The Power of Humor in Communication

31:46 Balancing Seriousness and Fun in Work

34:48 Telling Your Story and Building a Personal Brand

37:43 Finding Grace in Brotherhood

45:28 Lessons from Relationships and Personal Growth

51:53 Understanding Life Through Nature and Faith

01:00:18 The Design of Nature and Divine Purpose

01:01:55 Creativity and Brotherhood in Humanity

01:02:57 The Role of Sports in Building Relationships

01:05:28 Understanding Grace and Brotherhood

01:06:54 The Importance of Brotherhood in Life

01:07:47 The Code of Brotherhood

01:09:57 Lessons from Nature on Relationships

01:11:47 The Role of Men in Family Dynamics

01:13:59 The Formation of Gangs and Misguided Youth

01:16:14 Understanding Violence and Value in Society

01:18:02 The Power of Grace and Nurturing Growth

01:22:02 Teaching Vulnerability and Awareness to the Youth

01:23:43 Subscribe!

Follow Clark and Clvr World:

• https://www.instagram.com/clarkrooseveltte or @clarkrooseveltte

• https://www.instagram.com/clvrworld or @clvrworld

• https://www.facebook.com/clark.rooseveltte.2025

• Visit the 811 Retail space: 811 E 31st Street, Kansas City, MO

Our Sponsor for Season 6:

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 and reduce operational waste in your small business. Email: [email protected]

KCBC Info:

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

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

• KCBCtv (our sponsoring network): 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/kcbc913

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

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

Music: “Hackers” by Karl Casey / White Bat Audio @whitebataudio on YouTube and Instagram.

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.

This is a very short talk with updates from Michael about the near future of KCBC.

Our Sponsor for Season 6:

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 and reduce operational waste in your small business. Email: [email protected]

Affiliates:

Yep! Strength: use “KCBC913” at checkout on https://www.yepstrength.com to get 10% off of your order.

KCBC Info:

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

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

• KCBCtv (our sponsoring network): 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/kcbc913

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

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.

Season 6 has begun! Small business owners and HR professionals: you do not want to miss this one!

In this episode, Michael Risinger interviews Alicia McDougal, Founder of Legacy Inspired HR Solutions LLC, an HR consultancy specializing in helping small businesses navigate their human resources needs. Alicia discusses the importance of onboarding and training for employee retention, her journey from corporate HR to consulting, and the significant impact small businesses have on their communities. She emphasizes the need for integrating HR strategies into overall business strategies and highlights the value of soft skills in the workplace.

Alicia also shares her vision for simplifying HR processes for small business owners and her plans for future community engagement.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to HR and Small Business Needs

03:12 The Importance of Onboarding and Training

06:10 Alicia's Journey to HR Consulting

09:16 Why Focus on Small Businesses?

12:04 The Transition from Corporate to Entrepreneurship

14:58 Overcoming Challenges in HR Consulting

17:52 The Role of HR in Today's Job Market

20:32 Dispelling Myths About HR

23:21 Supporting Job Seekers in a Tough Market

29:00 The Journey of Recruitment and Community Impact

31:40 The Importance of Soft Skills in the Workplace

34:25 Leadership Development and Employee Relations

36:51 Building Leadership Skills Through Volunteering

40:20 Finding Motivation and Support in Personal Life

44:04 Simplifying HR for Small Business Owners

50:55 Integrating HR Strategy with Business Goals

Learn more about Alicia and LIHRS LLC:

• Website: https://www.lihrsolution.com

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

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alicia-mcdougal-mba-phr

Our Sponsor for Season 6:

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 and reduce operational waste in your small business. Email: [email protected]

Affiliates:

Yep! Strength: use “KCBC913” at checkout on https://www.yepstrength.com to get 10% off of your order.

KCBC Info:

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

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

• KCBCtv (our sponsoring network): 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/kcbc913

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

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

Music: “Hackers” by Karl Casey / White Bat Audio @whitebataudio on YouTube and Instagram.

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.

In this episode, Michael Risinger discusses the concept of 'clown makeup' in the context of business and personal growth. He shares personal stories of cringe-worthy moments in his career, emphasizing the importance of embracing failure and learning from mistakes. The conversation highlights the value of feedback, the necessity of stepping out of comfort zones, and the significance of maintaining a childlike curiosity in pursuing new endeavors. Michael encourages listeners to engage with their own experiences of cringe and growth, fostering a community of support and improvement.

Takeaways

• Embrace cringe-worthy moments as opportunities for growth.

• Feedback is essential for improvement in any endeavor.

• Public speaking can be a daunting but rewarding skill to develop.

• Childlike wonder can lead to discovering new passions.

• Failure is a stepping stone to success in business.

• Consistency in practice helps overcome initial failures.

• Engaging with the audience can provide valuable insights.

• Personal stories can resonate and inspire others.

• Learning from mistakes is crucial for personal development.

• Seeking feedback is a sign of a growth mindset.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Special Offer

00:57 The Concept of Clown Makeup

01:53 Personal Stories of Cringe and Growth

07:48 Learning from Failure

11:58 Embracing Childlike Curiosity

14:54 Feedback and Community Engagement

Affiliates:

Yep! Strength: use “KCBC913” at checkout on https://www.yepstrength.com to get 10% off of your order.

KCBC Info:

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

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

• KCBCtv (our sponsoring network): 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/kcbc913

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

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.

Our first full-length solo episode and season 5 finale all at once!

In this episode, Michael Risinger reflects on the journey of the Kansas City Business Cast, celebrating milestones, acknowledging sponsors, and sharing personal insights. He discusses the challenges and rewards of podcasting, the importance of community support, and the connections made through the show. Michael emphasizes the value of vulnerability and authenticity in storytelling, while also looking ahead to the future of the podcast and inviting listener feedback.

Takeaways

• Michael expresses gratitude for the Kansas City People's Choice Awards nomination.

• He reflects on the journey of podcasting and its impact on his life.

• The importance of community support and local sponsorships is highlighted.

• Michael shares the challenges of managing a podcast alongside other commitments.

• He emphasizes the need for consistency in podcasting, regardless of frequency.

• The beauty of podcasting lies in the connections made with guests and listeners.

• Michael encourages vulnerability and authenticity in storytelling.

• He acknowledges the importance of honest reflection in personal and professional growth.

• The future of Kansas City Business Cast includes plans for a short season and listener engagement.

• Michael invites feedback from listeners to improve the podcast.

Chapters:

00:00 ProMode.ai Sponsored Message | Introduction | Reflection on Podcasting Journey

09:20 Acknowledging Sponsors and Community Support

13:33 Challenges and Perseverance in Podcasting | Silverstone Bookkeeping Sponsored Message

24:58 Future of Kansas City Business Cast and Engagement Strategies

31:26 Ending Thoughts and call to Action!

Podcasts Michael mentioned in this episode, and has appeared on since starting KCBC:

• To Bring About Podcast: http://www.youtube.com/@tobringaboutpodcast

• I-70 Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@i70podcast

• Indelibly Marked: http://www.youtube.com/@indelibleartsnetwork

• Two Fingers Podcast: http://www.youtube.com/@TwoFingersPodcast

• Tour Buds: http://www.youtube.com/@TourBuds_Show

Our Wonderful Sponsors for Season 5:

ProMode.ai: Contact them today to get a free demo and solve your marketing problems…forever! Go to https://www.promode.ai, schedule a free demo, and use code “KCBC” to waive your $5,000 onboarding fee!

Silverstone Bookkeeping: Mention KCBC and get a QuickBooks Diagnostic Review & Tax Saving Session for just $150 (a $500 value)! https://www.silverstonebookkeeping.com

Black Drip Coffee: get some Renegade coffee from https://www.blackdripcoffee.com!

Affiliates:

Yep! Strength: use “KCBC913” at checkout on https://www.yepstrength.com to get 10% off of your order.

KCBC Info:

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

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

• KCBCtv (our sponsoring network): 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/kcbc913

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

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

Music: “Hackers” by Karl Casey / White Bat Audio @whitebataudio on YouTube and Instagram.

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.

In this engaging conversation, Michael Risinger interviews Justin Ricklefs, Founder & CEO of Guild Collective, a creative branding agency located in Liberty, Missouri.

They explore themes of leadership, company culture, and the importance of giving a damn in business. Justin shares insights on the interior work (he refers to as interiority) required for effective leadership, the significance of building a values-driven business, and the role of feedback in fostering a healthy company culture.

He emphasizes the need for businesses to focus on meaningful client relationships and the impact of community engagement. The discussion culminates in reflections on the future of business and marketing, highlighting the importance of authenticity and connection in today's marketplace.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction & ProMode.ai Special Discount Code

04:56 The Concept of 'Give a Damn'

11:05 Navigating Entrepreneurship and Leadership

19:28 The Importance of Interior Work

24:50 The Heart-Centered Economy | Silverstone Bookkeeping Sponsored Message

28:12 Building Community and Raising Standards

29:59 Human-Centric Business Practices

33:23 Formalizing Curiosity in the Workplace

36:57 Creating a Safe Environment for Feedback

38:24 The Importance of Trust in Organizations

43:28 Operationalizing Company Culture

44:22 Client Relationships and Expectations

52:02 Embracing Change in Business

54:52 The Power of Humanity in Marketing

58:18 Delighting Customers: The Key to Success

01:02:09 The Shift from Metrics to Meaning

01:05:47 Growth Through Clarity and Purpose

01:14:01 Subscribe!

Connect with Justin and Guild Collective:

• Guild Collective LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/18615334/admin/dashboard/

• Learn about GC, their services, and testimonials: www.GuildCollective.com

• Connect with Justin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinricklefs/

• Give a Damn Podcast: https://giveadamn.podbean.com/

Our Wonderful Sponsors for Season 5:

ProMode.ai: Contact them today to get a free demo and solve your marketing problems…forever! Go to https://www.promode.ai, schedule a free demo, and use code “KCBC” to waive your $5,000 onboarding fee!

Silverstone Bookkeeping: Mention KCBC and get a QuickBooks Diagnostic Review & Tax Saving Session for just $150 (a $500 value)! https://www.silverstonebookkeeping.com

Black Drip Coffee: get some Renegade coffee from https://www.blackdripcoffee.com!

Affiliates:

Yep! Strength: use “KCBC913” at checkout on https://www.yepstrength.com to get 10% off of your order.

KCBC Info:

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

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

• KCBCtv (our sponsoring network): 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/kcbc913

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

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

Music: “Hackers” by Karl Casey / White Bat Audio @whitebataudio on YouTube and Instagram.

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.