The Grit to Growth Podcast

How do you know if you're investing with the right real estate operator? In this episode, Levi sits down with Pat Zingarella, founder of Invest Clearly, to discuss one of the biggest challenges passive investors face: evaluating the people behind the deals. After transitioning from corporate America into real estate investing, Pat built Invest Clearly to bring greater transparency to private real estate investing by helping investors research operators, compare opportunities, and learn from verified investor experiences. What You'll Hear: Pat shares his journey from working in corporate sales to buying his first fourplex just before COVID, navigating tenants who stopped paying rent, unexpected property expenses, and eventually discovering major fraud while working for a commercial real estate investor. Those experiences shaped his belief that investors need better tools to evaluate sponsors before investing. The conversation explores why due diligence shouldn't stop with underwriting a property. Pat explains why investors should spend just as much time evaluating the operator as they do analyzing the deal itself, and why reputation, communication, and transparency are becoming the biggest differentiators in today's market. Pat also breaks down how Invest Clearly works, describing it as a "Yelp for private real estate." The platform allows investors to compare real estate investment firms, browse investment opportunities, and read verified reviews from other passive investors to better understand what it's like working with different sponsors. Levi and Pat discuss the current capital raising environment, why many sponsors are finding it harder to attract investors despite strong lead flow, and how today's market is rewarding operators who communicate honestly through difficult times rather than those with the biggest marketing budgets. The episode concludes with practical advice for new passive investors, including why you should never invest in something you don't fully understand, how to ask better questions during due diligence, and why seeking independent perspectives outside of the sponsor's sales process can dramatically improve investment decisions.

What would you do if the company you trusted for your financial security suddenly disappeared? In this episode, Levi sits down with John Casmon, marketing partner at Casmon Capital Group, multifamily investor, podcast host, and coach who has helped acquire more than $150 million in apartment investments while teaching busy professionals how to build wealth through real estate. What You'll Hear: John shares the pivotal moments that changed his life forever, including working through not one, but two corporate bankruptcies. After watching stable employers collapse around him, he realized that a paycheck alone wasn't enough to create true financial security. One conversation with a coworker completely shifted his perspective. While everyone else was stressed about layoffs and uncertainty, this colleague remained calm because he had built investment income outside of his job. That lesson became the catalyst for John's journey into real estate investing. The conversation dives into John's early real estate investments, the mistakes and lessons learned along the way, and how he eventually scaled into larger multifamily deals by leveraging partnerships and other people's money. John also explains why today's investors need to focus on fundamentals instead of chasing trends. He discusses the importance of cash flow, risk management, market selection, and why many investors got caught up in unrealistic expectations during the recent real estate boom. One of the most powerful takeaways is John's perspective on investing as a long-term game. Using sports analogies and real-world examples, he explains why setbacks shouldn't cause investors to quit, but rather adjust their strategy while keeping sight of their ultimate financial goals. Whether you're just starting to think beyond your 401(k), actively investing in real estate, or looking for practical wisdom on building long-term wealth, this episode offers valuable insights on financial independence, risk, and creating your own "life jacket" before you need it.

What separates great leaders from average ones? And how do the best companies consistently find executives who drive growth, culture, and long-term success? In this episode, Levi sits down with Kip Knippel, President and CEO of Kip Search, one of the nation's premier executive search firms specializing in C-suite and senior leadership recruiting. Through his work with private equity firms, venture capital groups, family offices, and growth-focused companies, Kip helps organizations identify transformational leaders who create enterprise value and scale businesses successfully. What You'll Hear: Kip shares his unique journey from practicing corporate law and commercial real estate to building a nationally recognized executive search firm. He explains how his passion for connecting people ultimately became the foundation for a business centered on helping organizations find exceptional leadership talent. The conversation dives deep into what companies should look for when hiring executives, why cultural alignment often matters more than technical qualifications, and how top-performing leaders are motivated by meaningful challenges rather than compensation alone. Kip also breaks down the critical roles growing companies need to hire first, including why many founder-led businesses reach a point where they need an operational leader or CFO to help scale systems, processes, and execution. He shares practical insights from working with startups, private equity-backed companies, and Fortune 10 organizations alike. For professionals aspiring to leadership positions, Kip offers actionable career advice, including why proximity to great leaders matters, how to intentionally build your career path, and the importance of doing the job you want before you're officially promoted into it. The discussion also explores how AI is impacting recruiting, why executive hiring remains a deeply human process, and how leadership recruitment has evolved in a post-COVID world where top talent is more open than ever to exploring new opportunities. Whether you're a founder preparing to build your leadership team, an executive looking for your next opportunity, or an ambitious professional aiming for the C-suite, this episode delivers valuable insights into leadership, growth, and the mindset required to reach the highest levels of business.

What happens when someone spends 30 years inside the healthcare system… and realizes the system itself is broken? In this episode, Sarah Johnson joins Levi to share her journey from longtime registered nurse to founder of Growth and Gratitude Coaching. After decades on the frontlines, Sarah saw a major shift in healthcare—from human connection and trust to a system driven by checkboxes, efficiency, and profit. What You'll Hear: Sarah walks through her early years in nursing, where patient care was deeply personal—sitting bedside, building relationships, and truly understanding people beyond their symptoms. Over time, she watched that connection fade as technology and systems took over, leaving both patients and providers feeling disconnected. A turning point came when Sarah realized she could no longer operate within a system that felt misaligned with her values. From hospital roles to home visits to navigating the challenges of COVID-era healthcare, she continued searching for a better way to serve people. That search led her to nurse coaching—a model that blends medical expertise with deep, human-centered coaching. Within months of discovering it, Sarah fully committed, completed her training, and launched her own private practice in 2024. Now, she helps people regulate their nervous system, reduce anxiety, overcome addiction, and reconnect with themselves—without relying solely on medication or rushed doctor visits. Her approach focuses on true, lasting wellness by addressing mind, body, and lifestyle together. Sarah also breaks down what nurse coaching actually is, why it’s still relatively unknown, and why she believes it’s the future of healthcare as more people seek personalized, holistic support. If you’ve ever felt like the healthcare system is missing something—or you’re looking for a more human approach to wellness—this episode will completely reframe how you think about healing and support.

What does it actually look like to grow a family business from a small shop into a multi-million dollar operation—and then step away from it? In this episode, Matt Erfman joins Levi to share the full journey behind Dakota Land Manufacturing, a company that started as a small, family-run operation and grew into a regional manufacturing leader with over 150 employees. From working in the shop as a teenager to helping lead the company through major growth, mergers, and ultimately a majority sale, Matt walks through every stage of the process. What You'll Hear: Matt shares how he got his start working in the business during high school, learning hands-on manufacturing before bringing in formal business strategy after college. What began as a small operation with just a handful of employees evolved through consistent customer outreach, strategic growth, and a willingness to adapt. A key part of the story is how the company found its footing early on—starting with a niche in sheet metal fabrication and landing foundational contracts that helped them survive and grow. From cold outreach and local relationships to landing larger clients, Matt explains how momentum was built step by step. The conversation also dives into the realities of running a family business. Matt shares the challenges that come with mixing family and business decisions, and how their team eventually reframed their approach—shifting from a “family business” mindset to becoming a “business family,” where decisions are made in the best interest of the company first. You’ll hear how pivotal moments—like the 2008 recession and achieving ISO certification—opened the door to major growth opportunities, leading to multi-million dollar customer relationships and long-term scalability. Matt also breaks down the strategic decisions that led to a merger in 2015, bringing in outside leadership and creating a more structured organization. That evolution ultimately set the stage for selling a majority stake in 2023, allowing for both continued growth and a transition into the next chapter. Now serving on the board, Matt reflects on life after stepping out of day-to-day operations—focusing on health, family, and giving back to the community. If you’re building something long-term, navigating a family business, or thinking about your eventual exit, this episode gives a clear, real-world look at what that journey actually involves—and what to think about when you reach the finish line.

What separates content that gets ignored from content that actually drives results? Jeff Pickett believes the answer is simple, but often overlooked: stop talking about yourself and start telling better stories. In this episode, Jeff joins Levi to break down how he built Forefront Studios, a video strategy company focused on helping businesses grow through intentional storytelling. With a background in marketing, healthcare, and video production, Jeff brings a unique perspective on how strategy and creativity work together to produce real ROI. What You'll Hear: Jeff shares his journey from working in consumer marketing and healthcare to launching his own video company and eventually co-founding Forefront Studios. What started with small projects like weddings and freelance work evolved into a full-scale studio helping businesses clarify their message and grow through video. A major focus of the conversation is what businesses consistently get wrong: they make themselves the center of the story. Jeff explains why the customer should always be the “hero,” while the business plays the role of the guide. This shift, rooted in proven storytelling frameworks, is what turns marketing from noise into something that actually connects. You’ll also hear how Forefront approaches strategy differently. Instead of jumping straight into content creation, they start with deep discovery, identifying whether a client actually needs what they’re asking for, or something entirely different. That clarity allows them to focus on outcomes, not just deliverables. Jeff also dives into ROI, sharing how intentional video strategy can generate 10x+ returns when done right, and why they won’t take on clients unless they believe that level of impact is possible. The conversation touches on current trends, including the rise of AI-generated content. While it’s fast and accessible, Jeff explains why it often lacks authenticity and why audiences can quickly recognize it. In a world full of noise, genuine human storytelling is what still stands out. If you’re a business owner struggling to clarify your message or justify your marketing spend, Jeff offers a simple starting point: listen to your customers, understand their problems, and build your story around them. This episode is a practical look at how to create marketing that actually works, by making your customer the focus and using story as the vehicle for growth.

What does it look like to carve out a completely unique niche inside healthcare? Dr. Jill Kruse found her answer at the intersection of medicine and aviation. In this episode, Jill joins Levi to share how she built Flight Time Medical, a specialized practice focused on aviation physicals and pilot care. With over 20 years of experience as a physician, she combines her medical background with her own experience as a pilot to help ensure people in the cockpit are safe, healthy, and ready to fly. What You'll Hear: Jill walks through her journey from growing up in northwest Iowa to becoming a physician and eventually discovering aviation medicine. What started as a casual conversation about flying turned into earning her pilot’s license and stepping into a critical role as an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME), helping pilots meet strict FAA medical standards. You’ll also hear a breakdown of how aviation medical certifications work, why they’re essential for safety, and how few specialists actually exist in this space, especially in smaller states like South Dakota. Jill shares what it means to be one of only a handful of senior AMEs in the state and the growing demand as many providers retire. Beyond her clinical work, Jill talks about balancing multiple roles, running her own practice, working in the hospital, and hosting Prairie Doc, a long-running public health show focused on making medical information accessible and trustworthy. She also shares practical advice for healthcare entrepreneurs: don’t wait until everything is figured out. Start, learn as you go, and lean on others who have already done it. This episode is a powerful look at how following curiosity can lead to unexpected opportunities, and how building a niche can create both impact and flexibility in your career.

What happens when you get tired of fixing the same problem over and over again? Loren Heesch turned that frustration into a business. In this episode, Loren joins Levi to share how decades working in plastic manufacturing led him to spot a costly, overlooked issue: cheap, failure-prone components that constantly shut down production lines. Instead of accepting it, he decided to build something better. That decision eventually became Black Widow Valves, a company focused on creating durable, high-performance check valves that actually last. What You'll Hear: Loren walks through his background, including over 30 years in manufacturing and how repeated equipment failures pushed him to start experimenting with his own solution. He explains how a difficult season in life became the catalyst for building his product and how solving one specific problem turned into a real business. You’ll also hear a simple breakdown of what his valves actually do, why most alternatives fail, and how improving a “small” component can save companies significant time and money by preventing costly downtime. Beyond the product, Loren shares the reality of starting a business from scratch: figuring out naming, legal setup, marketing, and sales without a roadmap. He talks about learning everything on the fly, the importance of persistence when no one is paying attention, and why passion is essential when early support is limited. This episode is a real look at entrepreneurship in its raw form, solving problems, staying consistent, and building something meaningful one step at a time.

What does it take to help people navigate their hardest moments and come out stronger on the other side? Kristal Steeves has built a career doing exactly that. In this episode, Kristal joins Levi to share her journey from decades in Denver working with homeless populations and child welfare systems to launching her own private practice in South Dakota. As a mental and behavioral health clinician, she has spent years working with children, families, and individuals in crisis, helping them rebuild stability, reconnect with themselves, and move forward with purpose. What You'll Hear: Kristal walks through her early career working with high-acuity populations, including leading transitional housing programs for women experiencing homelessness and spending over a decade in child welfare helping families reunify. She shares powerful stories of resilience, including what it takes to support individuals through trauma, addiction, and systemic challenges while still seeing the human behind the situation. You’ll also hear how her work has evolved into private practice, where she now focuses on helping people through trauma, major life transitions, and mental health challenges. Kristal explains her approach to therapy, why regulating the nervous system is the first step before changing thoughts or behaviors, and how small practices like breathwork can create immediate, meaningful change. This episode is both deeply insightful and highly practical, offering real tools you can use to manage stress, improve resilience, and better understand what’s happening in your mind and body.

What does it look like to build a career that blends business leadership with meaningful, life-changing work? Jason Schoolmeester has taken a path through agriculture, staffing, and corporate HR before landing in a role that brings it all together. In this episode, Jason joins Levi to share his journey from growing up on a farm near the Minnesota–South Dakota border to becoming Chief Human Resource Officer at Lifescape in Sioux Falls. After studying psychology at Dordt University, his early experience working directly with individuals with developmental and behavioral needs sparked an interest that would later come full circle. His career took him through high-volume staffing, relocation to Alabama, and HR leadership roles supporting complex operations before ultimately returning to the Midwest to join Lifescape. What You'll Hear: Jason shares how his early hands-on experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities shaped his perspective on meaningful work. He walks through his transition into human resources, including managing large-scale hiring operations and working in high-stakes environments that required strict procedures and accountability. He also explains what Lifescape does, supporting children and adults across all stages of life with developmental, behavioral, and complex medical needs through a combination of healthcare, education, and residential services. You’ll gain insight into the challenges of building culture and retaining talent in a highly competitive job market, especially in a mission-driven organization. Jason also discusses the importance of listening to employees, understanding the real issues behind workplace concerns, and balancing operational demands with purpose-driven work. He also shares a personal story of how Lifescape impacted his own family, reinforcing the real-world impact of the organization’s services.

What does it take to move from hands-on clinical work into leadership within a healthcare system? Tom Johnson has built his career across pharmacy, education, and healthcare operations, offering a unique perspective on that transition. In this episode, Tom joins Levi to share his journey from growing up on a dairy farm in Brainerd, Minnesota, to becoming Vice President of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Services at Avera Health. After earning his PharmD from North Dakota State University and completing a residency in acute care, Tom began his career in a dual role with South Dakota State University and Avera, working in the ICU while also teaching. Over time, his path evolved from clinical practice into leadership, expanding his responsibilities across pharmacy, laboratory, and imaging services. What You'll Hear: Tom shares how his early experiences in farming shaped his work ethic and decision to pursue a career outside of agriculture. He walks through his progression from clinical pharmacist to faculty member and eventually into administrative leadership, highlighting how each role built on the last. He also discusses the importance of maintaining a clinical perspective while making leadership decisions and the balance required to support teams without losing sight of day-to-day realities. You’ll gain insight into the challenges healthcare systems face today, including funding, operational complexity, and decision-making in patient care. Tom also explains how healthcare has shifted toward shared decision-making, where providers guide patients through options rather than making decisions for them. For those early in their careers, he emphasizes the importance of saying yes to opportunities and being open to paths that may not be obvious at the start.

What systems keep emergency services and local governments running behind the scenes, and what happens when they fail? Eric Nyhaug works in public safety technology, supporting the software that many cities and agencies rely on every day. In this episode, Eric joins Levi to share his journey from growing up in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to building a career across healthcare and technology. After earning a degree in healthcare administration from USD and spending years in healthcare tech, Eric made a shift in his career path, eventually earning his MBA from the University of Sioux Falls. About nine years ago, he transitioned into the public safety space, a field closely connected to his family’s background in law enforcement. What You'll Hear: Eric explains his role at CentralSquare Technologies, a company that provides software used by public safety agencies and local governments across North America. He shares how these systems support everything from law enforcement operations to administrative functions like utility billing and property taxes. He also talks about the importance of building relationships with agencies and how his work helps them get the most out of the technology they depend on. You’ll gain insight into how public safety software operates behind the scenes, how career paths can evolve across industries, and why the systems most people never see play a critical role in everyday life.

What does food security really mean, and why does it matter beyond agriculture? Jeff Lochner has spent his life working in farming, ranching, and agricultural finance, giving him a unique perspective on that question. In this episode, Jeff joins Levi to share his journey as a fourth-generation farmer and rancher in eastern South Dakota. After graduating from South Dakota State, Jeff began his career as a farm credit system lender in Iowa and Nebraska before returning to his family’s diversified crop and livestock operation. His decision to come back was shaped by a family turning point, ultimately leading him to help carry on and grow a multigenerational farm. What You'll Hear: Jeff shares what it’s like to operate a large, diversified farm and ranch, including crops like wheat, corn, soybeans, and managing a sizable cow herd. He talks about the realities of returning to a family operation, working alongside multiple generations, and how roles evolve over time. He also reflects on his experience in agricultural lending and how it shaped his understanding of the broader ag industry. You’ll gain insight into the challenges and responsibilities of multigenerational farming, the connection between agriculture and financial systems, and why Jeff believes food security is not just an agricultural issue, but a national one.

What role do airports play in the growth of a community, and why are they often overlooked in conversations about economic development? Kent Penney has spent his career working in aviation and local government, helping answer that question. In this episode, Kent joins Levi to share his journey from growing up in the Dallas-Fort Worth area to pursuing a career in public administration. After earning both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in public administration, he began working in Alliance, Nebraska, where he took on a wide range of responsibilities, including serving as an airport manager. That experience introduced him to aviation and ultimately shaped the direction of his career. What You'll Hear: Kent explains how he got started in airport management and why he chose to focus on aviation within local government. He shares how working in smaller communities required him to take on multiple roles and how that hands-on experience opened new opportunities. He also walks through his career progression, from local government roles to positions in airport leadership across multiple cities and even serving as Nebraska’s aeronautics director. You’ll gain insight into how careers in aviation can develop without a defined path, the connection between local government and airport operations, and how airports contribute to the broader community in ways people don’t always recognize.

What role do physician associates play in today’s healthcare system, especially in rural communities? Echo Kopplin has built her career helping people better understand that answer. In this episode, Echo joins Levi to share her journey from growing up on a ranch in rural Nebraska to becoming a physician associate and advocate for healthcare education. Now based in Spearfish, South Dakota, she focuses on improving how clinicians are trained, supported, and positioned to care for patients in an evolving healthcare system. What You'll Hear: Echo explains what a physician associate actually does, how the profession is trained, and why there are still many misconceptions about the role. She also discusses the importance of healthcare access in rural communities and how providers can better support patients in areas where medical resources are limited. You’ll gain insight into the path to becoming a PA, the realities of practicing medicine in rural America, and why educating both patients and professionals about the profession matters for the future of healthcare.

What does it take to build a career in medicine while staying deeply connected to your community? Dr. Dennis Miller has spent decades doing exactly that. In this episode, Dr. Miller joins Levi to share his journey from growing up in Northern Ontario to becoming a co-owner of Siouxland Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. As an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, he has spent years performing complex surgical procedures, serving on hospital trauma teams, and helping patients through some of their most challenging medical moments. What You'll Hear: Dr. Miller breaks down what oral and maxillofacial surgery actually involves, from wisdom teeth removal to complex facial trauma cases. He also shares the path that led him into the field, the realities of practicing medicine for decades, and how staying involved in both the medical community and the local community has shaped his career. You’ll hear insights into the discipline required to succeed in medicine, the responsibility that comes with surgical care, and the importance of building trust with patients and the community you serve.

What does it take to fund real estate deals when traditional banks say no? Kevin Amolsch has spent decades answering that question. In this episode, Kevin joins Levi to share how his journey from the military led him into real estate investing and eventually into founding Pine Financial Group, a private lending company that helps real estate investors secure the capital they need to close deals and grow their portfolios. What You'll Hear: Kevin breaks down how private lending works and why it plays a critical role for real estate investors who need speed and flexibility. He also shares what lenders actually look for in a deal, common mistakes investors make when seeking funding, and lessons he has learned from years of working with developers and investors across the country. You’ll walk away with insights into how deals get financed behind the scenes and what it takes to build long-term success in real estate investing. Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest  and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

What happens when your outer presence finally aligns with your inner potential? Sheila Anderson has made it her mission to help professionals answer that question. In this episode, Sheila sits down with Levi to share how her creative upbringing, modeling background, and personal transformation led to a powerful branding business for executives and entrepreneurs. What You'll Hear: Sheila shares how struggling to find clothes that felt good sparked her journey into image consulting. Now, through her company, Image Power Play, she helps clients uncover their personal brand, starting with one simple but profound word. From style to digital presence, Sheila walks us through the process of building confidence through authentic branding—without the overwhelm. You’ll hear practical takeaways like how to edit your closet without starting over, why "everything communicates," and how even changing your hairstyle can shift how others perceive you.   ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

What if the success you're chasing isn’t the success you actually need? In this episode, Levi Te Slaa sits down with Alan Lazaros, the founder of Next Level University, for a deep, unfiltered conversation about what it really means to live a fulfilled life. From losing his father at an early age, rising through adversity, hitting career highs—and then crashing head-on into a life-altering wake-up call—Alan shares how he went from chasing external achievement to building a life of internal alignment. You’ll hear Alan’s hard-won insights from over 6,800 coaching sessions, his thoughts on what success without fulfillment looks like, and how to navigate the “golden cage” of high achievement that doesn’t actually feel meaningful.   ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

What happens when life takes an unexpected turn—and the pressure is at its peak? In this episode, Levi Te Slaa sits down with Brett Waltner, a seasoned attorney and partner at Myers Billion, to talk about high-stakes decision-making and emotional resilience in legal crises. Brett shares insights from his early career as a prosecutor to his current role helping clients navigate everything from criminal defense to custody battles. Listeners will appreciate Brett’s calm, clear-headed approach to intense situations, his practical tips for keeping emotions in check, and his commitment to helping clients think clearly—even when things get heated. Whether you're facing a legal issue or just want to hear from someone who knows how to stay grounded under pressure, this conversation delivers wisdom, perspective, and heart.     ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this heartfelt and practical episode, Levi sits down with Robert and Kay Lee Fukui, co-founders of i61 and creators of the “Thriving in Tandem” framework. Drawing on personal stories and years of professional experience, the Fukuis share why business success shouldn't come at the cost of your most important relationships. From managing cattle ranches and church congregations to corporate marketing and small business consulting, Robert and Kay Lee reflect on their unique upbringings and how those backgrounds shaped their mission to help married entrepreneurs balance business and home life. Together, they talk through the common traps couples fall into—like unresolved conflict, busyness, and wearing too many hats—and how weekly meetings, focused priorities, and heart-level connection can lead to a more profitable business and a stronger marriage.   ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this inspiring episode, host Levi Te Slaa sits down with Sanaa Abourezk, owner of a beloved Mediterranean restaurant in Sioux Falls. From her roots in Damascus to launching a business in South Dakota, Sanaa shares how food became her bridge to culture, community, and change. They discuss her path from agricultural engineering to launching a restaurant against the odds, her philosophy on eating intentionally, and why her vegan burger is drawing attention in the Sioux Falls Burger Battle. Sanaa also opens up about teaching others through Instagram, potential Shark Tank dreams, and upcoming efforts to fight childhood hunger through fun, community-centered events. Whether you're a foodie, entrepreneur, or simply someone who believes in gathering around the table, Sanaa’s story will warm your heart and feed your soul.   ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this enlightening episode of The Grit to Growth Podcast, host Levi Te Slaa sits down with Dr. Jennifer Schriever to explore what sustainable weight care really looks like. With over two decades in family medicine and a board certification in obesity medicine, Dr. Schriever brings a unique and compassionate approach to a deeply misunderstood topic. She shares her journey into obesity medicine, the science behind weight as a chronic disease, and how Sanford Health is leading with a personalized, whole-person model of care. The conversation dives into everything from the impact of childhood experiences on eating habits to the evolving world of weight-loss medications. Learn why “eat less and move more” is only a fraction of the equation and how mindset, history, hormones, and support systems all play a vital role in long-term health. Whether you’re feeling stuck in your health journey or simply curious about what comprehensive weight care looks like today—this episode will leave you informed and inspired.   -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

What does it really take to build a sustainable workforce for the future? In this episode, Levi Te Slaa welcomes Denise Guzzetta, Vice President of Talent and Workforce at the Sioux Falls Development Foundation, for a compelling look into the programs, strategies, and partnerships driving long-term workforce success in South Dakota. Denise shares her journey from finance and corporate leadership to regional workforce development, and how she’s building bridges between schools, students, and employers. From STEM camps to career connections, Denise breaks down how early exposure, immersive learning, and community collaboration are preparing young people for real-world careers—and helping businesses find and grow local talent. If you're a business leader, educator, or simply someone passionate about community development, this conversation is packed with inspiration and actionable insights.   -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this episode of The Grit to Growth Podcast, host Levi Te Slaa talks with Jon Sanders—a pastor, coach, firefighter, and serial entrepreneur—about what it means to serve people through business while staying true to your calling. Jon shares his powerful journey from a full-time firefighter to a multi-business owner, including the founding of Entree Pastors, an initiative that helps pastors build financial freedom by becoming entrepreneurs. He opens up about wrestling with his calling, embracing a multi-passionate identity, and building businesses that meet real community needs. You’ll hear how Jon went from financial insecurity in ministry to building successful ventures like Dakota Small Jobs and 605 Blinds. He explains why pastors often struggle with money, and how shifting mindset, understanding personal strengths, and building a business with purpose can help them thrive—both in ministry and in life. Jon also unpacks his MAPS framework, walks through the mindset shifts necessary for pastors to build sustainable income, and casts a compelling vision for future growth through business acquisitions.   -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

When Jennifer Johnson’s health forced her to rethink food, she didn’t just adapt — she transformed her entire lifestyle and eventually built a thriving business from it. In this episode, Levi Te Slaa chats with Jennifer about how a personal dietary shift turned into Gluten Free Please, a beloved gluten-free baking mix company that’s making waves in kitchens everywhere. Jennifer shares her journey from 25 years in banking to becoming a full-time entrepreneur. She talks about the challenges of navigating food allergies, the real story behind starting her business, and the products people can’t get enough of — like her double chocolate brownie mix and nostalgic Pizza Hut-style pizza crust. They also discuss the growing awareness around gluten-free living, how Jennifer is building a community around her brand, and what’s ahead in 2026 — including a new website, YouTube tutorials, and the surprising success of her new gluten-free sourdough bread.   -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this inspiring conversation, Jill Janecke shares how her roots on a Minnesota hog farm laid the foundation for a lifelong mission to serve rural communities through mental health care. Jill opens up about the grit it took to launch Rising Hope Counseling in Pierre, South Dakota, with just one client—and how it’s now grown to 30 locations across four states. We dive deep into how understanding the brain and building awareness can be transformational not just in therapy, but in leadership, work culture, and daily life. Jill shares the power of EMDR therapy, why “hope” became the heart of her practice, and how therapy in rural America is evolving through hybrid and telehealth models. Whether you’re a therapist, a leader, or someone who believes in second chances and strong communities, this episode will move you.     -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

What does it take to lead a medical team through a child’s emergency and be a calm, confident presence for families during their worst moments? In this episode of The Grit to Growth Podcast, host Levi Te Slaa sits down with Dr. Donald “Don” Ellis, a pediatric emergency medicine physician now based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Don shares his journey from Delaware to building a pediatric emergency program in the Dakotas—something he describes as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to serve an underserved region. Don unpacks what makes pediatric emergency care so unique, how it differs from general emergency medicine, and why he insists on a first-name basis with his team to eliminate barriers to communication when seconds matter. From the launch of a new pediatric ER wing to the role of "Child Life" specialists and an upcoming emergency medicine residency, Don’s work is reshaping healthcare access for children in the Upper Midwest.   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

What do NFL players, firefighters, and everyday adults all have in common? They want to move better, feel better, and live pain-free. In this episode, Levi Te Slaa sits down with Mark “Coach Rozy” Roozen, a veteran strength and conditioning coach with a remarkable journey spanning NFL sidelines, hospital wellness centers, and high school gyms. Coach Rozy shares how his upbringing in small-town South Dakota shaped his passion for movement and health. You'll hear how he brought American football to Europe, built strength programs in Texas and South Dakota, and developed Live Pain Free—a program helping professionals overcome repetitive use injuries. Whether you're an elite athlete or just want to pick up your grandkids without pain, Coach Rozy has insights for you. He breaks down how patterns, progression, and practical programming can transform performance and wellbeing across all ages and professions.   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this heartfelt episode, Levi sits down with Abby Lawrence, founder of Two Pines Therapy and Connection Center, to explore what it really means to heal, connect, and show up for others—and ourselves—when life gets hard. Abby opens up about her deeply personal journey from corporate America to starting a private practice after the sudden loss of her father. She shares how personal pain shaped her mission and how connection—not just therapy—is at the core of true healing. Listeners will hear about: The story behind the name "Two Pines" Abby’s experience navigating grief, sudden change, and starting a business The powerful therapies used at Two Pines, including EMDR, EFT, CBT, DBT, and ACT How Abby helps clients reconnect with themselves and others in a disconnected world The lessons she's learning as a mental health provider and business owner --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this episode of The Grit to Growth Podcast, Levi welcomes two powerhouse women in the field of functional medicine: Dr. Cheryl Bones and Dr. Jessica Pearson, co-founders of Prairie Roots Health. From their unexpected connection in South Dakota to launching a thriving clinic together, their journey is anything but ordinary. Dr. Pearson shares her shift from a high-intensity military career as an OBGYN to embracing holistic health after COVID sparked a personal transformation. Dr. Bones reflects on her path from chiropractor to functional medicine advocate and business owner, driven by her passion to uncover the root causes behind health challenges. Together, they explain how their clinic focuses on individualized, root-cause care—helping patients optimize health through nutrition, stress management, gut health, lifestyle changes, and personalized plans, not just prescriptions. They also share insights on balancing science and lifestyle, the power of collaboration, and why they don’t want clients to need them forever.   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this heartfelt and insightful episode, Levi Te Slaa sits down with Hope Norland, Operating Director at Cornerstone Caregiving, to talk about the power of support, dignity, and proactive care in the lives of seniors and their families. Hope shares her personal journey—from being an English major to becoming a leader in home-based senior care. She opens up about her experience in hospice care, the emotional rewards of helping families reclaim time with their loved ones, and the importance of shifting from reactive caregiving to intentional care planning. They explore: The emotional and practical toll caregiving can have on families What “activities of daily living” really mean in a home care context The qualities that define a great caregiver Why families should start care conversations early How Cornerstone Caregiving supports clients in staying home safely and with dignity --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

From a garage sale Stephen King novel to publishing alongside Stephen King himself, Doug Murano’s creative journey is a masterclass in perseverance, passion, and pivoting when life deals you a “bad hand.” Doug opens up about his South Dakota roots, how a pandemic-era closet became his first home office, and the early sparks that led him to editing, writing, and eventually founding Bad Hand Books. He shares what it’s really like behind the scenes in indie publishing, how a moment of personal crisis sparked his company’s powerful name, and why horror has always been his home genre. Key Takeaways: Why Doug abandoned law school just 9 days before it began How he pivoted during a layoff with four young kids to create a business The story behind “Bad Hand Books” and what it stands for His dream-come-true project collaborating with Stephen King --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

Levi Te Slaa sits down with Dr. Abigail Polzin—ER doc, former AirMed Medical Director, and current program director for the newly launched emergency medicine residency at USD Sanford. They talk about her journey from Utah to Wisconsin to South Dakota, her time in the air as a flight medicine leader, and what it takes to build an innovative training program in a part of the country that has long needed it. You'll hear about: Why Abigail fell in love with emergency medicine How her team handled 14,000+ flight patients over a decade What makes South Dakota’s new residency program so impactful How rural healthcare differs from big-city medicine The emotional toll—and reward—of ER work What aspiring ER docs need to succeed --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

What happens when a renowned atmospheric scientist turns his attention to cattle ranching? In this episode, Dr. Patrick Zimmerman—founder and CEO of C-Lock Inc.—shares how his journey from environmental research to agricultural innovation is helping reshape animal agriculture around the globe. From pioneering emissions monitoring systems to revolutionizing how ranchers measure efficiency, Dr. Zimmerman opens up about the power of data, science, and respect for ruminant animals. He discusses how early work at the National Center for Atmospheric Research led him to develop technology that bridges biosphere-atmosphere science with real-world applications for farmers and ranchers. Listeners will hear the fascinating story of how his company, C-Lock, evolved from a carbon accounting concept into a global leader in precision livestock monitoring—with clients across 50 countries and counting. Whether you’re a rancher, a scientist, or someone curious about sustainable agriculture, this episode unpacks big ideas in an approachable and practical way.   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.  

In this episode, host Levi Te Slaa welcomes Carrie Gerlach, founder and owner of Black Hills Adventure Tours. Carrie shares her inspiring story of starting the business with a modest loan, a few kayaks, and a big dream. Now celebrating 20 successful seasons, she’s grown the company into a thriving adventure and tourism service offering customized experiences across the Black Hills and beyond. Carrie opens up about her early years, how she transitioned from hospitality into entrepreneurship, and what it took to build a seasonal business from the ground up. She also talks about balancing motherhood, creative problem-solving, expanding her offerings with women's travel experiences around the world, and the importance of partnerships in delivering world-class guest experiences. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a lover of the outdoors, or someone curious about sustainable business growth, this episode is packed with grit, vision, and wisdom.   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

From dreaming of designing Corvettes to leading a cutting-edge 3D printing company, Shon Anderson’s path is anything but traditional. In this episode, Shon unpacks his journey from small-town South Dakota to CEO of B9Creations and shares what really makes technology stick in today’s business world. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why understanding your gifts might take a great boss—not just time How technical skills and people skills can collide to create innovation The three pillars every company needs to consider for successful tech implementation Why B9Creations’ approach to additive manufacturing is changing how businesses adopt technology The surprising role of mentorship, mindset, and soft skills in tech success Whether you're a startup founder, a leader at a growing company, or early in your career, this conversation will give you tools to better align your talents with your goals—and to think differently about how people and tech can grow together.   --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

What happens when an 83-year-old mathematician, entrepreneur, and lifelong problem-solver builds an AI platform to separate fact from fiction online? In this episode, Levi Te Slaa welcomes Brian Dempsey—a seasoned consultant, company founder, and the mind behind hallucinations.cloud—to talk about truth, tech, and the art of knowing what (and who) to trust in the digital age. Brian shares his fascinating journey from a successful actuarial career to building and selling his own firm, and now to coding and innovating in the AI space. You’ll hear how he’s applying the "wisdom of the crowd" through technology to combat misinformation and why he believes AI is a tool anyone—even those who fear math—can use to solve real-world problems.   ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

From the bleachers to the boardroom — Travis Morgan’s journey is a story of grit, growth, and Midwest charm. In this episode, Levi Te Slaa sits down with Travis to unpack his path from small-town Nebraska to CEO of the Sioux City Musketeers. Along the way, Travis shares lessons learned in TV sports, marketing, the symphony, and minor league hockey — including why betting on yourself and taking a leap can change your life. Travis opens up about: How a summer internship launched his career in broadcasting Moving from the newsroom to marketing a casino — and what business lessons he learned Reinventing how the community saw the Sioux City Symphony Leading the Musketeers through one of the most successful runs in team history What it means to lead with heart, build strong relationships, and “reverse the curse” (seriously!) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

What happens when you mix neuroscience, law, and a dinner table conversation? You get Aaron Emerson’s journey from medical research to revolutionizing hospital care. In this episode of The Grit to Growth Podcast, host Levi Te Slaa sits down with Aaron, CEO of SEGA Innovations, to uncover how he's turning pain points in hospitals into life-saving innovations. From discussing his pivot from academia to entrepreneurship, to explaining how SEGA’s groundbreaking air-lateral transfer devices are reducing patient and staff injuries, Aaron shares a behind-the-scenes look at medical product innovation. You’ll hear how SEGA balances accessibility, affordability, and cutting-edge tech to meet real hospital needs — all while staying rooted in Sioux Falls. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, aspiring entrepreneur, or someone interested in innovation, this episode delivers insights on turning practical problems into powerful business opportunities.   ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this episode, Levi Te Slaa sits down with Vishnu Nellore, a civil engineer for the City of Sioux Falls, to talk about his journey from coastal India to the snowy plains of South Dakota—and how he’s now influencing the growth and infrastructure of one of America’s fastest-growing cities. Vishnu shares how he came to study at South Dakota State University, adjusted to life in the U.S., and discovered a passion for engineering that’s all about people as much as it is about projects. You’ll hear about: The cultural and climate shock of moving from India to South Dakota What drew Vishnu to SDSU and civil engineering His experience adapting to a new language, new customs, and the Imperial system How public input shapes large-scale infrastructure projects in Sioux Falls An exciting new interchange project that will connect growing parts of the city The importance of leadership and public trust in civic engineering Why Vishnu believes Sioux Falls is a great place to live and work ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

Levi Te Slaa sits down with Joanna Prewitt, a licensed therapist and the founder of Enso Mental Health in Spearfish, South Dakota. Joanna opens up about her path from working in social services to launching her own mental health practice. Inspired by personal experience and a desire to “help the helpers,” JoAnna built Enso with a vision to create a supportive, sustainable environment for therapists and clients alike. In this heartfelt conversation, Joanna reflects on how her parents’ divorce sparked a lifelong dedication to therapy, why she left nonprofit work, and how she scaled Enso Mental Health from a solo practice into a 9-clinician team in just a few years. She also shares how the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped mental healthcare delivery and her future plans to expand into Rapid City.   ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this episode of The Grit to Growth Podcast, Levi Te Slaa welcomes Dr. Jeremy Cauwels, a small-town Iowa native whose early experiences with congenital heart disease inspired a lifelong pursuit of care and leadership. Now the Chief Medical Officer of Sanford Health, Dr. Cauwels discusses how he went from hospital medicine to helping oversee quality, safety, and graduate medical education across a vast healthcare system. He shares insights on leading through growth, the importance of communication in large organizations, and the lasting lessons from navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. Listeners will also hear his advice for emerging leaders, the value of “just showing up,” and how Sanford continues to support healthcare careers from the ground up. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this episode of The Grit to Growth Podcast, host Levi Te Slaa sits down with Ryan Junek, a fourth-generation business owner and the force behind Junek's Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram in Spearfish, South Dakota. From his family's migration during the Great Depression to running one of the oldest car dealerships in the region, Ryan shares a story rooted in resilience, adaptation, and legacy. Tune in to hear how a small gas station evolved into a thriving car dealership, how Ryan transitioned from running a car rental business at the Rapid City Airport to taking the reins of the family enterprise, and why staying at the forefront of technology and community involvement has been crucial to his success. This episode dives deep into the challenges and benefits of multi-generational businesses, Ryan’s advocacy work through the South Dakota Auto Dealers Association, and how he’s keeping the Junek legacy alive—brick by cinder block, one generation at a time.   ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this episode, Levi Te Slaa sits down with Connor Hallstrom, founder of SoDak Industries, a CNC machining business in Clark, South Dakota. Conner shares the story behind starting his company while still working full-time and raising twin boys with his wife—all driven by a vision of generational legacy and hands-on craftsmanship. Conner breaks down the nuts and bolts of what a modern machine shop does, why machinists are in demand, and how robotics and software are shaping the future of manufacturing. He opens up about what it takes to build a family-integrated business, how he’s mentoring the next generation of machinists, and the lessons his young boys have taught him about patience and purpose. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a parent, or just curious about the world of precision machining, this episode will give you insight, inspiration, and a dose of reality from someone living the grit-to-growth journey.   ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this episode, Levi Te Slaa sits down with Dr. Bhaskar Purushottam, founder of Midwest Heart and Vascular Associates and a leading cardiologist based in Rapid City, South Dakota. Dr. Purushottam shares his inspiring journey from Bangalore, India to becoming a specialist with training at some of the world’s top medical institutions, including Mount Sinai and William Beaumont. They dive deep into the critical topic of vascular care access in underserved regions. Dr. Purushottam explains why he chose to launch a private clinic focused on timely, life-saving treatment for heart and vascular diseases—especially peripheral arterial disease (PAD), a leading cause of limb amputation in the U.S.     ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this insightful episode of The Grit to Growth Podcast, Levi sits down with John Clapper, a former pastor turned tech leader, who now serves as the VP of Technology at Verdia and co-founder of Sendachi. John shares his winding journey from ministry to mastering data and analytics, offering real-world wisdom on solving business chaos with the power of code and leadership. John dives into how he transitioned from Excel spreadsheets to enterprise-level data systems, the pivotal role of AI in modernizing credit union technology, and the value of rural innovation. You’ll hear how he applies a unique "reverse engineering your life" mindset to both his career and leadership path. If you've ever wondered how someone can go from a call center to speaking at SAP conferences—or how tech can transform rural economies—this conversation is packed with insights you won't want to miss.   ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this episode, Levi sits down with Sarah Vicunia, founder of Top Talent Connections, a new recruiting agency based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Sarah shares her journey from a successful career in corporate HR to an unexpected job loss that led her to launch her own business. She opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of losing a job, the courage it takes to pivot, and the drive to create meaningful connections between companies and candidates. Sarah dives deep into how small businesses struggle with hiring, and how her firm is uniquely positioned to bring "big company" recruiting experience to smaller teams that need it most. Her story is honest, inspiring, and a great listen for anyone considering entrepreneurship or navigating a career transition. What You'll Learn: The inspiration and story behind Top Talent Connections How Sarah turned job loss into a business opportunity Why smaller companies benefit from outsourced recruiting The emotional highs and lows of starting a business Sarah’s “triple win” recruiting philosophy The power of staying connected and building community     ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this episode, Levi Te Slaa sits down with Shaine Anderson, a dynamic entrepreneur from Aberdeen, South Dakota, who’s thriving in not one—but two—distinct industries. As the founder of Anderson Electric and Wired Coffee Company, Shaine shares how he transitioned from managing a retail floor to wiring homes and troubleshooting industrial systems, all while brewing up some of the region's best coffee. Shaine talks candidly about his journey into the trades, discovering his family's multi-generational legacy in electrical work, and how mentorship and apprenticeships shaped his path. He dives into the challenges of running two businesses, balancing leadership and hands-on work, and why community service and communication are at the heart of everything he does.   ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this energizing conversation, Vaney Hariri shares his journey from Buffalo, NY, to becoming a culture architect in Sioux Falls, SD. Co-founder of Think3D Solutions, Vaney talks with Levi about building company culture on purpose, not by accident. You’ll hear why culture happens whether you plan for it or not—and why investing in it matters. Vaney shares how Think3D helps organizations develop leadership at all levels, and why the best cultures are built by design. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be A Guest Are you a successful business owner or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest on https://grittogrowthpodcast.com/guest and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.