The Bullpen Podcast

On this episode of the Bullpen Podcast, Nate Johnson, Founder and CEO of GLSC, Inc. and Co-Founder of FR8MVMT, joins Andrew Rice for a conversation on leadership, sales, and performance in one of the most demanding industries out there. Nate shares lessons from building companies in transportation and logistics, including why great people matter more than perfect systems, how technology can create an edge when used with purpose, and why communication is often the deciding factor during change. He also discusses the value of listening, being direct when it counts, and building real relationships that lead to long-term trust. From navigating pressure to motivating teams and pursuing big opportunities, Nate offers practical insight for leaders who want to grow in high-stakes environments.

On this episode of the Bullpen, Brandon Vannelli, President and Co-Owner of Norco Precision, shares his journey of acquiring and leading a Twin Cities–based sheet metal manufacturing company. He reflects on the challenges of stepping into ownership, earning trust during a leadership transition, and maintaining Norco’s reputation for quality and responsiveness while scaling operations. Brandon highlights the importance of listening to employees, building a strong culture rooted in precision and innovation, and using clear communication to keep a small team aligned during periods of growth. He also discusses strategic expansion through deeper customer relationships and closes with advice for aspiring entrepreneurs on the value of asking questions and learning from others in the industry.

On this episode of the Bullpen, Jeff Bennett shares his journey from a corporate career in the medical device industry to founding Morari, a sexual wellness company. He discusses the challenges faced in developing a neuromodulation product for men's health, the importance of addressing stigmatized issues in men’s sexual performance and the role of innovation and how AI will play a part in Morari going forward.

In the fast-paced world of logistics, success hinges not just on speed and efficiency but also on the people behind the operations. In this episode of the Bullpen podcast, we sit down with Lacey Olson, the owner and chief manager of Transport Express, to explore her entrepreneurial journey across multiple industries. Lacey shares her insights on leadership, adaptability, and the importance of putting people first in any business.

In this episode of the Bullpen podcast, host Dylan Boor interviews Nick Esparza, founder of the PM Network, discussing innovative approaches to remodeling and construction. Nick shares insights on how his company prioritizes transparency, client ownership, and effective communication to enhance the remodeling experience. He highlights the importance of trust, accountability, and adapting to the evolving building environment, while also providing practical advice for homeowners and aspiring leaders in the industry.

In this episode of the Bullpen podcast, Drew Cove interviews Patrick Fanning, CEO and Principal Engineer at Legacy Design and Development. They discuss the complexities of medical device innovation, the importance of being a growth partner rather than a traditional consultant, and the challenges startups face in bringing their ideas to market. Patrick shares insights on leadership, decision-making, and the significance of understanding regulatory pathways in the medical field. He emphasizes the need for clarity and effective mentorship in guiding startups through high-stakes product development.

In this episode of the Bullpen podcast, Roxanne Jennings, President of EnviroStar Ingredients, shares her journey in the ingredient industry, focusing on the importance of spray drying, sustainability, and clean labels. She discusses the differences in client needs across food and pharmaceutical sectors, the significance of building a mechanically inclined team, and the values that guide her leadership. Roxanne also offers insights on balancing innovation with execution and the future trends in the ingredient space.

In this conversation, Chris Luger shares the inspiring story behind the Luger Foundation, which supports families facing NICU and pregnancy-related medical debt. He discusses the impact of personal experiences on his philanthropic journey, the importance of community engagement, and the lessons learned from running a nonprofit compared to corporate ventures. Chris also delves into his passion for personal finance through his platform, Heavy Metal Money, and challenges common retirement myths. He emphasizes the significance of leadership, in-person connections, and outlines future growth strategies for both his foundation and business ventures.

In this conversation, Mike Swenson, president of Mel Foster, shares insights from his 40 years of leadership experience. He discusses the evolution of his leadership style, the impact of employee ownership on company culture, and the balance between tradition and innovation. Swenson highlights pivotal decisions, including an aggressive M&A strategy that transformed the company, and emphasizes the importance of communication and integration in scaling teams. He also explores exciting trends in the electronics industry and offers valuable lessons for business leaders on adapting to change.

In this episode of the Bullpen Podcast, Drew Cove interviews Cody Blades, founder of Blades Law, a Minnesota-based firm specializing in employment and business law. Cody shares her journey from working in firms to starting her own practice, emphasizing the importance of empowering clients and fostering a collaborative lawyer-client relationship. She discusses her dual focus on both employees and employers, the common legal challenges faced by small businesses, and the proactive steps that can be taken to avoid disputes. Cody also highlights the role of fractional in-house counsel and the impact of AI on the future of legal services.

In this episode, Seth Cogswell, the Managing Partner at Running Oak, shares insights into the firm’s mission to simplify clients’ lives through thoughtful investment strategies focused on return on risk. The conversation emphasizes the importance of simplicity, discipline, and resilience in both investment and leadership, highlighting a rules-based approach to managing risk and maximizing growth.

In this episode of the Bullpen Podcast, Andrew Rice interviews Peg Kinda, owner of Reliable Billing, who shares her journey in the medical billing industry. Peg discusses the importance of building trust with healthcare providers, the challenges faced during the pandemic, and how technology is transforming billing practices. She emphasizes the significance of community involvement and offers valuable advice for entrepreneurs looking to build lasting businesses.

In this episode, Greg Ackerson, founder of InBYLT and Apex Water Solutions, shares insights on leadership, company culture, and the importance of purpose-driven business. He discusses the genesis of his companies, the core values that guide decision-making, and the evolution of his leadership style from seeking answers to fostering collaboration. Greg emphasizes the need for innovation while maintaining business viability, the role of an operating system in executing strategic goals, and the lessons learned from challenges faced with partners and subcontractors. He concludes with advice for future strategic moves, highlighting the value of peer advisory groups and structured systems.

In this episode of the Bullpen Podcast, Drew Cove interviews Erkan Danis, founder and CEO of CargoCycle, who shares his journey from the automotive industry to creating innovative electric cargo bikes. The conversation explores the challenges of product design, market differentiation, and the importance of local manufacturing. Erkan discusses balancing the needs of different user groups, the future of urban mobility, and valuable leadership lessons learned throughout his entrepreneurial journey. He emphasizes the significance of having the right team and the necessity of being self-sufficient as a founder.

In this conversation, Ross Williams, Chief Investment Officer at Deer Lake Strategic Management shares his journey from working in the investment industry to becoming an entrepreneur. He discusses his desire to create his own ideas and products rather than selling someone else’s. This transition involved gaining experience in trading firms before ultimately deciding to build something of his own to offer to investors.

In this episode of the Bullpen Podcast, Drew Cove speaks with Andrew Ayers, an estate planning and business law attorney, about the importance of legal planning for both families and business owners. They discuss common misconceptions about estate planning, the overlap of family and business needs, the risks of DIY legal planning, and future trends in legal planning. Andrew emphasizes the need for a solid foundation in legal documents and the importance of being proactive in protecting one’s legacy.

In this episode of the Bullpen podcast, Dr. Maria, founder of EverYouth, shares her journey from patient to provider, emphasizing the importance of personalized wellness and anti-aging care. She discusses the significance of sleep, the ineffectiveness of one-size-fits-all approaches, and the connection between aesthetics and overall wellness. Dr. Maria also addresses common myths about aging, the future of wellness medicine, and offers practical advice for those feeling stuck in their health journey.

Andrew interviews Callie Murray, Founder and CEO of Wade-Murray Consulting, discussing the concept of fractional leadership, its advantages, and common misconceptions. Callie shares insights on branding, marketing strategies, and the future of fractional leadership. She emphasizes the importance of consistency in branding, intentional marketing efforts, and reputation management. Callie also talks about the skill gaps in upcoming marketers and her approach to maintaining team motivation during leadership transitions.

In this insightful conversation, Andrew Rice interviews Drew Burch about security tech company Pro-Tec Design’s unique employee-owned structure, its impact on company culture, and the balance between cutting-edge technology and human-centric approaches. Drew shares strategies for driving growth, the importance of consistent training, and his leadership philosophy.