Journeymen
By Ian Buchanan
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Join hosts, Jacob Carlson and Ian Buchanan, as they engage with an eclectic group of guests, discussing their personal journeys in an intimate setting. Because we all have a story to tell—a journey to share.
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For those short on time, Jacob and Ian also host Moments by Journeymen—an ongoing series of digestible episodes highlighting the events that define our lives.
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Follow the podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn (@journeymenpdcst).
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JourneymenJul 21, 2020
Moments | Kim Somenske - It's Not Just Me
Life changes when we become a parent. It's an indescribable feeling. The love, the responsibility, the joy, the weight. For Kim Somenske, the realization that she and her husband would be welcoming a child into the world was met with every emotion. No longer was it just about her. In fact, it was no longer about her at all. The entire focus of her life shifted to how she could be the best mother to her daughter. Throughout the journey, seeing her daughter grow from a child into a girl and from a girl into a woman, Kim has experienced the highs, the lows, and everything inbetween. Without question, she has learned innumerable things about parenting, but, perhaps more subtly, about life as well.
Moments | Alberto J. Maldonado - Making Mom Proud
Our relationship with our parents evolves over time. We go from needing them to survive, to wanting them to leave us alone, and finally to appreciating, loving, and caring for them. Like many kids his age, Alberto Maldonado was known to stir up a little trouble in his middle school years. This aloof behavior came to a head one day when his mother received notice of his unacceptable actions in the classroom. Her reaction was strong, emotional, and, for Alberto, a lasting memory. At this moment, he realized that he never wanted his mother to feel this way as a result of something he did ever again. From that point forward, Alberto began to change his behavior, wanting to trade his mother's disappointment for pride. Ultimately, Alberto received his Master's Degree from UW-Milwaukee and has gone on to lead the university's Roberto Hernandez Center, a group on a mission to serve Latinx students and the Latinx population of Southeastern Wisconsin.
Moments | Héctor Colón - Boxing Ring to Boardroom
How can a single bully turn someone into the CEO of one of the largest non-profit organizations in the Midwest? Ask Héctor Colón. When he was just a boy, Héctor, like many, fell victim to unfair, cruel bullying. Yet, unlike many, he, with the encouragement of his father, decided to do something about it. By age 9, Héctor was enrolled in boxing classes, primarily as means of learning self-defense. By age eleven, he won his first National Title and was number one in the country for his weight class. He was gifted. Over the course of the next 8 or so years, Héctor earned three Silver Glove National Championships, two Junior Olympic National Championships, one U.S. National Championship, and a Muhammad Ali Invitational National Championship. Yet, despite his resounding success, he found a new ring to enter, one called upon by God. Héctor pursued higher education and strategically entered the business world with an eye on eventually becoming as successful a servant leader as he was once a fighter. Today, as the CEO of Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin & Upper Michigan, he is putting the fight to something different, but is still relentless in his pursuit of excellence. You can learn more about Héctor, his book, and everything else he has going on via his website: champinstitute.com.
Moments | Liz Boyna - Stumble Into Clarity
Moments | Ashley Valentine - Rooted (In) MKE
Moments | N'Jameh Russell-Camara - This is Me
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To learn more about all things N'Jameh, visit her website: njameh.com
Moments | Souheil Badran - Stacking Success
Turns out the COO of a Fortune 100 company knows a thing or two about success. Who knew?! Souheil Badran, currently the Chief Operating Officer of Northwestern Mutual, is not only a prime example of a career well-defined and well-traversed, he's also a testament to the American Dream—emigrating from Lebanon—and living with intention, purpose, and conviction. And, it's these traits that manifested themselves into a seminal moment in Souheil's life—the decision to move his family to California, and embrace the risk of joining a startup with a mere 50 employees. It was a decision that ended up working out, providing Souheil with a rock-solid base upon which he would go on to stack career success.
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P.S. Because we had to ask...Souheil is currently reading Coach Wooden by Pat Williams and Humor, Seriously by Jennifer Aaker and Naomi Bagdonas.
Moments | Cetonia Weston-Roy - It's Gotta Be Me
Sometimes your parents know best. Well...maybe more than just sometimes. When Cetonia Weston-Roy was a child, she wouldn't have claimed reading as a hobby. That is until her step-father entered her life and bestowed upon her the gift that keeps on giving: a love for books. And, it was a love that grew over her formative years into a passion that spoke to her soul. Like most eventual entrepreneurs, which she now is, Cetonia's passion led to the identification of a problem. She knew, through experience and conversing with her community, that Black literature, of all varieties, was simply too hard to find. However, unlike most eventual entrepreneurs, she thought it was a problem someone else should fix. But, when no one stepped in to do so, Cetonia knew it had to be her. Niche Book Bar is the result.
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You can support Niche Book Bar on Facebook (@FindYourNicheMKE), Instagram (@nichebookbarllc), via its website (findyournichemke.com), as well as on bookshop.org. Cetonia is also the founder of Black Author's Collective and the author of The Misadventures of Toni Macaroni children's book series!
Moments | Irma & Dachon Freeman - Building a Kingdom
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to work alongside your parents? To have a shared purpose guiding you down the same path? For mother-son duo, Irma and Dachon Freeman, a giving heart has proved to be genetic. With 25+ years of experience as an educator for Chicago Public Schools, Irma recently decided to leverage this experience into launching Kingdom Communities and Families, a non-profit designed to meet the needs of low-income communities on Chicago's west side, like those where she raised her son. To get such an ambitious effort off the ground, right there alongside Irma was her son, Dachon, harnessing his skills to grow the brand, now from his new home of Milwaukee. The two are an absolute inspiration, proving that following your heart and improving the lives of those around you leads to a happy, fulfilled existence. Help support Kingdom Communities and Families: Follow on LinkedIn; Follow on Instagram; Donate!
Moments | Michelle Boening - Let's Get Spiritual
What do you do when your purpose is to educate, but your calling is outside the classroom? Well, if your Michelle Boening, you make the difficult decision to answer the call. No matter how esoteric it is. After 22 years in public education, Michelle made the brave transition into a newfound passion of hers: spiritual care—namely Reiki, Tarot Readings, and Animal Communication. Starting her business, Ananda Citta Spiritual Care, in 2018, Michelle encountered her ups and downs, like any new business owner, but has consistently found strength in her work, her family, and the positive impact she is making in the lives of her clients. ** You can learn more about Michelle's business online. Also, check it out on Facebook and Instagram!
Moments | Susan Carlson - Career Rock Wall
Change can be scary. But, if we want to prepare ourselves for the journey ahead, we better get used to it. So says Susan Carlson, someone who not only welcomes change, but seeks it out when necessary, as well. Life is full of unknowns, but one thing that is almost certainly, universally true is the fact that it doesn't happen in a straight line. Speaking to her winding career, Susan offers great advice on how to best navigate what she dubs your "Career Rock Wall." To Susan, becoming professionally successful is not akin to a ladder, it is more difficult, it requires side steps, and sometimes even demands moving back down the wall to find a better path. If we are willing and able to adapt to the inevitable transitions we face, we're better equipped to reach the summit of both career and life.
Moments | Raejean Kanter - All The Small Things
When's the last time you held the door open for someone? Could have been yesterday, even today. We do it so often it hardly feels like it's a big deal. But, as Raejean Kanter points out, such a simple, small act of kindness performed at the perfect time can stick with us for years. It can, in Raejean's case, even inspire us to pay it forward to the far reaches of the world. As a children's author, Raejean is doing her part to instill the importance of acceptance, generosity, and friendship in today's youth. More recently, she has used her platform to organize and conduct a dress drive, in which she calls on her community to donate new dresses to little girls in Africa. Her annual drive is taking place as of the publishing of this episode—details can be found on her Facebook page (@grandmabooksworld)! Raejean has put so much good out into the world...and to think, if not for the smallest of good deeds, we'd perhaps be deprived of it all. Be kind, everyone. The world needs it.
Moments | Jenna Czaplewski - What Can Books Do For You?
Not many things we do before we're potty-trained toddlers stick with us throughout our lives...at least, hopefully not. However, for Jenna Czaplewski, one interest of hers—held since her earliest years—has not only remained, but amplified. Books. Their magical nature, ability to transport and captivate, as well as their power to educate and develop empathy within the reader...it all clicked with Jenna from a young age. This unconditional, unabashed love has led her to amass a collection of hundreds upon hundreds of books, contribute to local literacy as member of her local library board for over a decade, and to even start a book blog, called The Girl With Book Lungs (which can be found online at girlwithbooklungs.com, as well as on Facebook—@girlwithbooklungs). For Jenna, books have been a constant. A tenet of her life. For you, that likely isn't the case. But, if Jenna teaches us one thing it's that we're all readers, some of us just haven't found the right book yet.
Moments | Jeff Smith - Improvise, Adapt, Overcome
Life throws many things our way. Some welcomed. Some not. We crave control over the details of our existence, but, the truth is, we never know what will happen next—if plans will take shape or be derailed. For Jeff Smith, upon joining the United States Army Special Forces at the ripe age of 17, a certain outlook on living was instilled within in him. This mindset guided Jeff decision by decision, from earning multiple degrees, getting married, learning to fly helicopters, and everything in between. He, like most of us when we're young, never fully knew what his next move would be. But, he never failed to stay prepared, curious, and searching. By doing that, according to Jeff, and having fun along the way, fulfillment is always within reach. When forces try to knock you off course, to wreak havoc on your sense of order, improvise, adapt, and overcome.
Moments | George Paasewe - See Gap. Fill Gap.
Moments | Barbara Cerda - Barby the Book Fairy
As many of us did at the outset of the pandemic, Barbara Cerda would go on family walks. Her and her three daughters enjoyed the opportunity to get outside and explore their neighborhood—one that included a handful of Little Free Libraries, most of which, however, needed books. Being the good stewards that they are, the Cerda family gathered up old books and made it their mission to keep these libraries filled. What started out as addressing a simple need has grown into the Barby the Book Fairy brand, centered around filling the demand for books in her community. With such an outpouring of support, Barbara has been able to donate countless books, enjoyed by countless individuals living in Milwaukee's south side, and is inspiring others to pay it forward as well. Given the success of her efforts so far, Barbara is even looking into how can she can build up the Barby the Book Fairy brand, expanding to new and exciting book-related offerings. To learn more about how you can support Barby the Book Fairy (donating books, volunteering at book drop-off events, etc.), visit their website, Facebook page, or send Barbara an email at barbythebookfairy@gmail.com!
Moments | Kirsten Finn - Keep On Pedaling
Tragedy strikes all of us. At one moment or another, we are met with unforeseen circumstances that shake us to our very core, our very foundation. For Kirsten Finn, that moment came in 2012, when her father was hit by a car while bicycling to work, severing his spinal cord in the process. Kirsten grew up creative, with a passion for theatre that led her from Chicago to Milwaukee during her formative college years and into her early career. It wasn't until the birth of her second child in 2005 that Kirsten became engrossed in the local cycling community—her dad undoubtedly a guiding hand. Seven years later, when the unimaginable happened, Kirsten was understandably damaged. She was scared off of the bike for years and what had become a go-to hobby and source of community vanished. Yet, when the opportunity arose to join the Wisconsin Bike Federation as its Executive Director, Kirsten jumped at the chance to re-involve herself in what she, and her father, loved so much. In the face of fear and trauma, Kirsten found a way to keep on pedaling.
Moments | Katie Corbett - Books and Donald Duck
Katie Corbett is completely blind. But, after experiencing undeserved scrutiny and mistreatment in the workplace, that didn't stop her from creating a compelling vision of her future, free from trauma and shame, full of confidence, understanding, and fulfillment. After losing her job, Katie went on a mission to overcome the negative feelings attached to her firing and, in the process, was introduced to two books that have since been seminal resources in her path to mental recovery. They've helped Katie grasp the "why" behind our actions and how to then take that knowledge and use it to build empathy. As a result of ongoing mental exercise—including the practice of re-framing hurtful conversations as if your counterpart was speaking like Donald Duck—Katie has hopped back into the driver's seat of her life, no longer letting past events control her future. With the help of time, her loving support system, and books (and, Donald Duck), Katie is living out her re-imagined future, happier than ever.
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Connect with Katie on LinkedIn. The books mentioned that influenced Katie are Emotional Intelligence 2.0 by Travis Bradberry and Teach Yourself NLP by Amanda Vickers.
Moments | Margaret Fairbanks - Next Stop: Brilliance
What would you do if your child was diagnosed with autism? What would you do if a trained, licensed doctor told you to that your child would never amount to much of anything? Would you accept this grim, pre-determined fate? Or, would you hear it, internalize it, then fight it? Margaret Fairbanks chose the latter. When her son, Harry, was told at the age of 3 that, because of his autism, he'd never be on par with his peers and that he shouldn't be expected to go to college, Margaret knew this wasn't the end of the story. Something could be done. Something had to be done. On the heels of a transformation experience with Harry, Margaret discovered a new way to connect, a new way to develop. So, she and her husband, Mark, decided to start Islands of Brilliance—a Milwaukee-based organization that provides Art, Design and STEaM based workshops, allowing individuals who live with autism to thrive, doing what they love, free from societal molds. In one moment, for Margaret it all clicked. Her son would not be limited and neither would any child that stepped foot in her organization.
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Islands of Brilliance can be found on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Check 'em out!
Moments | Ike Wynter - Light in the Dark
August 23, 2020. Do you remember what you did that day? Unlikely...it was just another normal, uneventful Sunday for most of us. But, for Ike Wynter, it's a day that will never be forgotten. It's the day he realized what he needed to do. August 23, 2020 marked the start of a new chapter. Like many of us, Ike has experienced his share of pain, heartbreak, and despair. And, while these events and the emotions attached to them can be crippling to some, Ike has used them as opportunities to apply perspective and set out on a new course—one that taps into his passions and aligns with the vision he has for his life. He decided to leave his family business to pursue what truly spoke to his soul—art. Ike is now fully pursuing his work with Wynter Woods, selling his hand-crafted eco-sustainable wood wall art to buyers across the county. More than anything, Ike is a testament to the power of perspective and presence, to allowing yourself to be guided by your individual light, especially when life grows dark around you.
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Ike's stunning art can be found on Etsy. Also, check him and his amazing stuff out on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok!
Moments | Deanna Mau - Why Wait? Live Right Mau!
Today's society has come to glorify the "self-made" person—someone who seems to rise from nothing to remarkable success, all on their own accord. But, is anyone really self-made? Deanna Mau's story is just one example that would lead us to think that no, it is impossible to be truly self-made. Deanna has had a passion for creation, so much so that she found herself buying up materials to do her own custom vinyl printing as a hobby. Her "clientele" included friends and family looking for cool mugs, t-shirts, onesies—anything they could think of Deanna would try to create. And, she absolutely loved it. Yet, it wasn't until her husband said something so simple that Deanna starting thinking about her hobby as potentially something more. It wasn't until she got this push that she decided to turn a fun activity into a side hustle. Because of her husband's support—and her own drive, skill, and perseverance, of course—Deanna has waved caution to the wind and officially launched Make It Right Mau, an online custom vinyl printing shop selling to any and all interested buyers! As she and her husband realized, there was no reason to delay living the life you want to live.
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Make It Right Mau can be found on Facebook, Instagram, and Etsy! Check it out!
Moments | Jake Weiler - Empowering Humanity
For Jake Weiler, the philanthropic drive has always been there. Working with charitable organizations for years, his passion is well-known and well-developed. Yet, not until recently did Jake tap into something else—something that called on him to do more, to apply this passion in a deeper, more impactful way. While involved with Habitat for Humanity in Milwaukee, Jake saw an opportunity to harness the organization's homebuilding experience and translate it to the real estate investment sector, resulting in the creation of Empower Investments, LLC—a group focused on renovating properties and raising funds to provide families safe, affordable housing. Like anyone starting from scratch, much was learned, pain was felt, and fulfillment was earned each and every day. Although the decision to launch a new endeavor was one accompanied by fear, for Jake, the choice was clear. It was about doing something he believed in, experiencing something new, and living in accordance with his values.
Moments | Katie Sullivan - Engineering Your Own Way
It happens to many of us. We enroll in our dream university. We select our major with the fullest, purest intent of obtaining a career in our studied discipline upon graduation. Our parents are proud, as are our friends. But, when the moment finally comes to execute on this plan and enter the workforce, something's not right. We feel pulled in another direction. For Katie Sullivan, the plan was engineering, but the pull was to teaching. Bravely, Katie didn't resist like many of us would and do. Rather, she answered and followed her calling. After graduating from college, Katie entered the Teach For America program, which led her to Milwaukee and catapulted her into a 6th grade classroom. The journey hasn't always been easy—overcoming doubt, confronting a confused support system, moving across the country, and more—but, as she thinks back on her decision, it came down to one simple truth: in life, we regret the things we didn't do more than the things we did. She had to pursue this. She had to make her own way.
Moments | Josh Kok - Leave the Room
It came in flash while taking a power nap in a parking lot. A flash that, for Josh Kok, illuminated the next step in his life's journey. A flash that reminded him of what he'd been able to do in the past and what he needed to do in the future. A flash that transported him back to a moment in Brazil, sitting alone on a bus, terrified beyond belief. Josh's story is not only captivatingly suspenseful, it is also transformative, profound, and enlightening. It is a testament to how seemingly mundane decisions—like Josh opting to leave his hotel room, hop on a bus, and go to a wedding—have the ability to change the course of our lives, if not in that moment, down the road as we reflect. Stories like these leave a mark. They remind us that life is meant to be lived out in the open, unconstrained by walls—metaphorical or physical—that keep us feeling safe, yet trapped by comfort and ease.
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Josh Kok is a creative content producer living in Madison, Wisconsin. Find his work and/or inquire to work with him on his website!
DJ Shawna - Shoot Your Shot
DJ Shawna, a modern-day renaissance woman, is the official DJ for the Milwaukee Bucks, a published author, a philanthropist, a clothing brand owner, a podcast host, a former professional basketball player...the list goes on. So, put simply, we had a lot to talk about—so much so that we decided to split our conversation into two unique episodes.
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In this episode—episode two—Journeymen hosts, Jacob and Ian, dive into the driving force behind much of Shawna's life: basketball. What is life like as a high school All-American, a Division 1 college player, an overseas professional? And, what is life like when that path winds to a stop? For Shawna, it meant now pursuing something she'd previously considered more of hobby. She was going to be a DJ—hence the genesis of the moniker, DJ Shawna—a decision that has led to numerous life-defining experiences, culminating—at least for now—in the role of her dreams: official DJ of the Milwaukee Bucks. Throughout her journey, one theme emerges consistently. Without her willingness to be bold and go big, DJ Shawna wouldn't be anywhere close to where she is today.
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+ Follow DJ Shawna across social media (@djshawna), catch her streaming on Twitch and Mixcloud, and support her #DareToBe brand.
DJ Shawna - Greater Than Yourself
DJ Shawna, a modern-day renaissance woman, is the official DJ for the Milwaukee Bucks, a published author, a philanthropist, a clothing brand owner, a podcast host, a former professional basketball player...the list goes on. So, put simply, we had a lot to talk about—so much so that we decided to split our conversation into two unique episodes.
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In this episode—episode one—Journeymen hosts, Jacob and Ian, dive into the ways Shawna is contributing to missions and ideas that are greater than herself. The three discuss the impact her late step-father, Joe Weirick, had on her and her decision to write "The Adventures of Bob and Downtown Milwaukee," all proceeds from which are donated to Key To Change—an organization fighting to end chronic homelessness in Milwaukee. Shawna's altruism becomes even more evident as she elaborates on her #DareToBe brand—a passion project that seeks to inspire others to dream big and dare to be...whatever they want. Representing everything that is good about the city of Milwaukee, Shawna is an inspiration to listen to and a model of paying it forward.
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Our second episode with DJ Shawna drops on Wednesday, December 23. We're talking all things basketball, Bucks, and life as a DJ...
Your Hosts - Welcome to Season 2!
After 22 amazing guests and 25 uniquely special episodes, Journeymen is excited to kick off Season 2! Hosts, Jacob and Ian, update listeners on the last year of their respective journeys, reflect on the highlights from what was a remarkable, year long opening season, share their greatest takeaways and insights gleaned, as well as convey their immense gratitude towards guests and listeners. Season 2 comes with some changes, too! A new logo, independent social media accounts for the podcast (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn), and some truly inspiring, profound stories to be shared. Happy listening everyone!
Moments | Forest Richter - A Larger Calling
In his own words, Forest Richter became an entrepreneur "by accident." With degrees in philosophy and psychology, he never had a pre-defined, set-in-stone career path. It wasn't until his mid-to-late 20's in which Forest decided he needed more than what was being offered by his current role. He desired to make an impact—and one he could tangibly see. So, he jumped headfirst into the Milwaukee startup scene, where making a real difference seemed possible. It didn't take long for Forest to realize this is where he was meant to be—becoming involved in several early-stage startups, driving growth, and loving the process. As the years drew on, Forest, like the start of any entrepreneur story, saw an inefficiency in need of fresh eyes—the startup funding process. It was messy, scattered, and burdensome. It was biased towards white male founders located on the coasts. So, Forest decided to start Uncrowd.io—a platform dedicated to cutting inefficiencies in the fundraising process while bringing visibility to underrepresented founders. And, it was through this new venture, coupled with the societal shifts brought about in 2020, Forest heard his larger calling, which will steer his life from this point forward.
Moments | Faith Hommes - From Like to Love
It's funny how the things that happen most serendipitously often end up—when we look back on them—being some of the most influential moments of our lives. It's a theme ever-present among the stories of our Moments by Journeymen guests, and Faith Hommes is no exception. Though she's long had a penchant for fashion and taste for the aesthetic, it wasn't until one—rather chance—moment that Faith decided to act on her interests. In early 2020, Faith leaped head first into the wonderful world of reselling—curating and selling previously owned fashion apparel, ideally for a profit. Ever the doer, in a few short months, Faith has continuously grown her business, become a force in the space, and has even established herself as a trusted voice, willing and able to help those just starting out. Her story is a reminder of the importance of keeping your mind, eyes, and ears open to new opportunities. You never know when something will happen that will transform something you like into something you can't live without—into something you love. To glean more into Faith's reselling passion, check her out on Instagram, YouTube, and Poshmark (@faithhommes)!
Moments | Ruben Gaona - More Than Our Mistakes
"Each of us is more than the worst thing we’ve ever done." It's a quote from author Bryan Stevenson, and a statement that echoes through the mind of Ruben Gaona daily. Having been incarcerated for nearly seven years, Ruben knew that this time in his life and the mistakes that made it possible do not, and should not, define who he is. Yet, upon re-entering his community, he found that many of the people who had the ability to offer help and guidance simply believed the opposite—he is a convicted criminal, end of story. Despite being a hard-working veteran, they could not overlook the worst thing he's ever done. Battling these narrow-minded beliefs and judgements became difficult for Ruben, someone who was only trying to find work to support himself and contribute to society. So, aware he was not alone in this fight and determined to succeed, Ruben decided to take matters into his own hands. Recently, he co-founded The Way Out—an anti-bias employment platform that helps decrease recidivism through gainful employment and ongoing support services. This is the story of how Ruben used perseverance, optimism, and focus to bring this organization to life. (To donate directly to The Way Out, click here!)
Moments | Adam Braatz - The Right Reasons
Adam Braatz was struggling. Deployed in Iraq, he was grappling with the purpose of it all. Was he providing value? Did his compatriots back home respect his efforts abroad? The questions remained for days, weeks, months—was it all worth it? Was this what he was meant to do? Clarity eluded him, that is until one fateful moment—a moment in which he witnessed his worth, his impact. Ever since, Adam has lived with a transparent purpose, informed by what happened that day, and defined by what matters most. A man full of experience, wisdom, and light-heartedness, Adam Braatz understands first-hand the power of a single moment. In it, we can uncover our future. We can uncover our truth.
Moments | Megan Littel - Courage to Reflect
For most of us, our lives are almost pre-defined. Who can relate to the following? Graduate high school; move on to college; find your professional "calling"; graduate college; hit the real world with a job in your chosen field. This is the safe path, tried and true by many who came before us. And, it works—for most. Yet, the rare among us, those like Megan Littel, break the mold. See, Megan followed this journey, step-by-step, right up until that final piece. Instead of finding a job that leveraged her educational credentials—a Master's Degree in Community Mental Health Counseling—she decided to take a leap of faith and do some reflecting instead. She is focusing on living into the how over the what, emphasizing presence over productivity, and consistently evaluating the things she can do that align her strengths with her priorities. Where this may lead is still unknown, but Megan is confident in the direction of her life.
Moments | Andy Miller - An Identity Reborn
One night, Andy Miller took a breath and realized a change was needed. He was pouring everything he had into his duties as an academic advisor and football coach—his workweeks stretching to 80+ hours. Yet, Andy's most important duty—being a father—wasn't getting the attention it required or deserved. Something had to give. But what, exactly? Advising and football were who Andy was...or so he thought. At the hands of his rosary, Andy had his "light bulb moment"—despite helping his students discover their vocations, he had failed to define his own. Maybe his identity wasn't all about advising and football? Maybe he wanted it to be centered on how he raised his kids and grew alongside his family. Andy's focus changed, and so did he, deciding to go back to school, earn a doctorate degree, and attain a job that enhanced his day-to-day fulfillment, gave him the freedom to spend more time with those he cared about most, and allowed him to live in accordance with his newly reborn identity—that of a present father, loving husband, and humble servant.
Moments | Lauren Nelson - Hear Me Roar
The problems we face are simply opportunities to make something better. This is the mindset of the entrepreneur. This is the mindset required to create something out of nothing. This is the mindset possessed by Lauren Nelson. Only a few months ago, Lauren noticed that there should be a better way to align willing volunteers and donors with organizations in need of their support. So, she did something about it. She saw the opportunity from the problem and created something better. The product of her imagination and hard work is Roar Philanthropy—a Milwaukee-based organization on a mission to make volunteering an easy, accessible, diverse and enjoyable experience while providing Metro-Milwaukee nonprofits and organizations with respectful, optimistic, accepting and reliable volunteers and donors. The idea may have came to her in a flash, but, as you'll learn, Lauren's life had been steadily building to this moment.
++ For more on Roar Philanthropy and to see how you can get involved, visit roarphilanthropy.org!
Moments | Liz Carver - One Conversation
When we think of a backyard barbecues, most wouldn't peg them as hotbeds for new ideas, deep conversations, or chance encounters turned business partners. But, fortunately for Liz Carver, this backyard barbecue—celebrating a friend's birthday three summers ago—didn't get the memo. It was there, by way of one conversation, that the course of her life's journey was permanently transformed. Liz's love for the Enneagram—a method of self-identification that prioritizes personal growth—started by chance, but grew fast. Yet, despite her nerd-level affinity for it, she had never really manifested her passion for the insights gained from the Enneagram into anything tangible, that is until this aforementioned conversation, when she met Josh Green. It was then that two minds with an intense, shared interest collided and decided to act on something they believed in. And, the rest, as they say, is history. P.S. The two recently published a book—What's Your Enneatype?—which can be found at all major retailers. Also, follow their ~booming~ Instagram account at @justmyenneatype.
Moments | Angela Lang - Building BLOCs
Angela Lang saw a hole that needed to be filled in our communities. But, she didn't know if she was the right person to fill it. The decision to lead an organization is accompanied by many things, doubt certainly being one of them. Yet, despite Angela feeling unprepared and under-qualified, with a strong network of supporters by her side, she eventually jumped at the opportunity to lead BLOC (Black Leaders Organizing for Communities), a Milwaukee-based group that works to ensure a high quality of life and access to opportunities for members of the Black community in Milwaukee and throughout Wisconsin. As executive director, Angela has thrown herself into a leadership position, growing and developing each and every day as the position demands. In this episode of Moments by Journeymen, we dive into her story of starting at BLOC, how that has impacted her journey, the highs and lows, and what this bold decision will mean for her future.
Moments | Will Bott - Meet Up, In a Blink
While at a rowing competition a little over two years ago, Will Bott serendipitously had his light bulb moment. Why wasn't there anything on the market that let you know when your friends or colleagues are around so that you can meet up in real life? Too often, thought Will, we miss opportunities to have a good time with others simply because we don't know they're close by. So started the journey to launch bLinkup - an app that allows you to discover who you know in your area, giving you the opportunity to meet up...in a blink. In this episode of Moments by Journeymen, Will explains how the decision to start and operate a startup has impacted his life and shares some pointed wisdom along the way. bLinkup is currently available on the App Store! Give it a try!
Dwayne Marks - Network Effects (Pt. 2)
Resilient. Remarkable. Rare. These are just some of the words that are top of mind when describing the life of Dwayne Marks. His life has been a winding road, so full of experiences that we couldn't possibly squeeze it all into one episode - hence, we split his journey into two parts. This is his story.
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In Part 2, as Dwayne matures, his focus and passion move from cloudy to clear. With the support of his network of friends, family, colleagues, and mentors, he begins to confidently explore his interests and acquire tools that will build a fulfilling, successful career. Combining his love for bringing people and families together with a seemingly unrelated penchant for numbers and data, Dwayne is working every day to find unique, perhaps unexplored methods to uplift Milwaukee person by person, family by family at SaintA. When asked what has been paramount to shaping his life into what it is today, Dwayne cites two things: wisdom gained through education and the individuals he allowed to impact his life.
Dwayne Marks - Network Effects (Pt. 1)
Resilient. Remarkable. Rare. These are just some of the words that are top of mind when describing the life of Dwayne Marks. His life has been a winding road, so full of experiences that we couldn't possibly squeeze it all into one episode - hence, we split his journey into two parts. This is his story.
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In Part 1, we get to know Dwayne. His upbringing, his motivations, his interests, his defining moments. Growing up in East Chicago, Indiana, life wasn't easy. Yet, through the highs and lows, Dwayne was constantly supported - until he wasn't. Rapidly uprooting one's childhood can have that effect. Depending on with whom he surrounded himself in his impressionable years, Dwayne seemed to flip flop from good situations to bad situations, ebbing and flowing between a man of great promise and a kid without a clear direction. Yet, as he explains, certain seminal moments (and people) helped keep him on the right path as he made his way into young adulthood.
Moments | Rick Carlson - Recession of '09
Moments - Journeymen's ongoing series of digestible episodes highlighting the events that define our lives. Like many, Rick Carlson lost his job as a result of the 2008-2009 recession. However, his approach to his newfound circumstances was rather unique and remarkably powerful. Through thick and thin, Rick understands the importance of always keeping one eye forward, always considering what's next. A strong mindset coupled with the willingness to put 'we' over 'me' helped Rick not only get through this challenging time, but growth through it. This is his moment.
Henry Lynch - Just Go For It
Moments | Your Hosts - Life During the COVID-19 Pandemic
In this, the premier episode, your hosts, Jacob Carlson and Ian Buchanan, share how their journeys are being transformed and shaped by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. While sacrifices are certain, they attempt to take a step back and look at the bigger picture - how does this moment in time offer the opportunity to elevate themselves and their chosen path.
Gabriel Douglas - A Story of Faith
We all experience it. We all feel it. We all want to escape it when it rears its head. Burn out. Gabriel Douglas is no exception. Growing up in a faith-based family, attending a Christian elementary, middle, and high school, upon graduation he simply could not wait to see what else was out there to explore. Yet, his faith never wavered, and after a much-needed, but brief hiatus from ministry, his true passion emerged - or, perhaps 'resurfaced' is a more appropriate description. Gabriel now spreads love and joy as a member of the youth ministry at the very place in which his life's journey began - Eastbrook Church. A gifted musician and natural story-teller, Gabriel has no fear of expressing his true self - further combining his abilities and passions as a member of the band Divine Resonance. Equipped with a genuine, electric personality that is palpable in all that he says (and does), he is an absolute joy to listen to. This is his story.
Josh Fechtner - Active Mind. Active Body. Active Spirit.
Josh Fechtner grew up competitive, to say the least - always craving victory and despising defeat. Though, now in his mid-twenties with this edge not quite as sharp, Josh has still been able to harness this spirited energy for use in the pursuit of other endeavors. At the core of his competitive nature are two core tenets that have defined his journey - activity and ambition. With the relentless desire to pursue physical challenges and win, Josh has married these character traits into a career he believes to be his true vocation. Now a physical fitness and health instructor for nearly two years, Josh finds fulfillment in knowing that his active, ambitious mindset can be displayed daily. His competition is no longer a defined opponent. It is himself and his ability to instill lasting wisdom within his students. Winning is not necessarily a singular moment, but continuous progress. And, to Josh, this progress is as sweet as victory. This is his story.
Martha Carrigan - Bird? Plane? It's Super Spackle!
Always thinking of herself the "default girl", Martha Carrigan considers her life as one that has followed the straight and narrow - the expected route. But, to us - and, likely to those that hear her story - Martha's journey is far from ordinary. She helped start a high school. She is the CEO of career-building platform, Big Shoes Network. She has been hit by a car (multiple times...). Safe to say...far from average. Yet, like many of us, Martha shares a passion for people, and has allowed that defined purpose to guide her career. She never thought she'd be an entrepreneur, but her desire to help others has manifested itself in a thriving company that impacts thousands in the Midwest. For Martha, the analogy of spackling is very apropos when crafting a theme to represent her life - using her unique skills to fill gaps, assisting in the advancement of causes and people she believes in. This is her story.
Terri Carlson - Driving Tractors & Embracing Change
Davey Gwidt - Resolve. Resiliency. Amplifying Voices.
Davey Gwidt was born with something he cannot control - cerebral palsy. Yet, what he can control, his mindset, is bold, strong, and unwavering. Never has his disability been a crutch, rather - as Davey sees it - it has provided him with a distinct advantage: to see life differently than the rest. Marrying this uniqueness with his interests, Davey has made forays into sports journalism, political advocacy, and broadcast media. Now, the culmination of these experiences has placed Davey at ACLU Wisconsin, at the precipice of what he believes to be his life's purpose - using his talents to amplify the voices of those that go unheard. This is his journey.
Lauren Zydowsky - Expanding Your Toolbox
As a teacher, Lauren Zydowsky knows the school system in and out. Perhaps surprisingly, she is a strong believer in the power of real-world experience - that most knowledge is attained in the field, rather than in the classroom. Currently in pursuit of higher education, Lauren is focused on the expansion of her skills - her tools - those that are found in two different kinds of classrooms. Driven by her passion, Lauren's mindset is one of continued growth - both professionally and personally. Who she will become tomorrow is defined by how she betters herself today. This is her story.
Grady Buchanan - Finding Your Niche
For Grady Buchanan, nothing has ever been set in stone. Not his friend groups, not his college campus, not his life's purpose. Driven by ambitious goals and an utter disdain for boredom, since turning 18, Grady has lived in an ever-evolving state of fluidity - attending multiple universities, holding multiple jobs, and consistently refining both his short- and long-term plans. That is - Grady believes - until now. As a co-founder of two Madison, Wisconsin-based businesses, OmniValley and NVNG Investment Advisors, Grady has found a steady home in the entrepreneurial/venture space. Instead of settling for the ordinary, Grady has lived to unveil something we must all unmask within ourselves - who he really is. This is his journey.