Crazy People Podcast
Russ and Maurice look at the what it takes to start your own company and make it in business. As the title indicates, they aren’t looking for those ironclad guys their straight and arrow careers, but rather for those madmen, that zigged, then zagged and zigged again, all while doing a 360 turn with their eyes closed. In short: crazy people. So, if you are looking for the ’my boat, my house, my riches’ type guests, this podcast might not be for you. For everyone else who is grounded in the real world, it will be a hilarious, entertaining, informative and hopefully inspiring mix of stories of people of all walks of life within the greater business world.
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Episodes
Tuesday Aug 13, 2024
Tuesday Aug 13, 2024
Welcome back to the *Crazy People Podcast*, where we celebrate the audacity of ambition and the thrill of reinvention! Episode 40 is not just another milestone—it's the return of the much-anticipated *Crew Show*, where hosts Russ Broomell and Maurice Hofmann peel back the curtain and let you in on their journeys' exciting twists and turns.
In this episode, Russ and Maurice dive deep into their latest ventures, both on and off the mic. Russ is not just the voice behind your favorite podcast anymore; he's now a scholar in the making, pursuing a(nother) Master’s Degree while launching his own solo podcast, *15-Minute Mentorship*. If you’ve ever wanted to tap into Russ’s wealth of knowledge, this new show is your golden ticket—short, sharp, and filled with wisdom that can change your perspective in just 15 minutes. Follow him on LinkedIn, so you’re not missing any episodes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russbroomell/
Meanwhile, Maurice is coding his way into a new career, leaving behind the world of sales and marketing to embrace the cutting-edge fields of Python programming and cybersecurity. It's a brave new world for him, but knowing Maurice, he'll be breaking down firewalls and solving the unsolvable in no time. And for those still hungry for sales insights, don’t worry—Maurice is cooking up his third book, this time zeroing in on the art of sales and lead generation.
But the real magic of this episode lies in the stories the duo shares from past interviews. Imagine the grit and resilience of individuals who, despite facing seemingly insurmountable challenges, chose to take the hard road—and emerged stronger, wiser, and more successful. From career 180s to surviving on the edge, these tales testify that success isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the wild, crazy journey that gets you there.
So, whether you’re here for the life lessons, the laughs, or to feel a little more connected to your own crazy path, episode 40 will surely leave you inspired. Remember, as Monty Williams says, "Success awaits you on the other end of hard work."
Tune in, turn up the volume, and let the Crazy People Podcast remind you that the best stories are still being written.
#PodcastLife #NewBeginnings #CareerChange #SuccessJourney #HardWorkPaysOff #CrazyPeoplePodcast #15MinuteMentorship #CyberSecurity #SalesGenius #MotivationMonday #python #preply
Tuesday Jul 30, 2024
Tuesday Jul 30, 2024
The Future is Now: Dr. Christopher Rice on Strategic Foresight and Innovation - Crazy People Podcast #039!
Get ready for an exhilarating ride into the future with Episode 39 of the 'Crazy People Podcast'! In this episode, your charismatic hosts, Russ Broomell and Maurice Hofmann, are joined by the brilliant Dr. Christopher Rice, a consulting futurist and TEDx speaker from Refuturing. Known for his deep insights into the future of education, technology, and governance, Christopher Rice is here to challenge the way we think about the future and innovation.
Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/z3t2S2Pld_U
Find it wherever you get your podcasts from!
Christopher Rice is a master of strategic foresight, helping clients in the Higher Education, EdTech, Government, and Nonprofit sectors better understand their audiences and develop cutting-edge strategies using Experience Analysis & Design (EAD) methodologies. Christopher doesn't believe in making predictions despite his reputation as a futurist. So, what does a futurist do if not predict the future? Russ and Maurice dive into this intriguing question, exploring how Christopher helps organizations navigate the ever-evolving landscape of customer and constituent needs.
In an unexpected twist, AI productivity barely makes a cameo in this conversation despite Christopher’s prominent views on the subject. Instead, the discussion veers into fascinating territories, including the joys of experiential design, the importance of understanding human behavior, and even a surprising connection to Maurice’s vacation in Italy! The conversation is as lively as it is enlightening, with plenty of laughs and insightful moments that make this episode an instant classic.
Christopher's expertise shines as he breaks down complex concepts into engaging stories, demonstrating how a futurist’s work is more about understanding trends and human experiences than predicting specific outcomes. His unique perspective offers a fresh take on the future, making this episode a must-listen for anyone curious about what's on the horizon.
Join Russ, Maurice, and Christopher for a thought-provoking and entertaining episode that will leave you rethinking your approach to innovation and the future.
Tune in and discover why this episode is already being hailed as a landmark moment in podcasting!
#CrazyPeoplePodcast #ChristopherRice #Futurism #InnovationStrategies #RussAndMaurice #PodcastLife #ExperienceDesign #HigherEducation #EdTech #GovernmentInnovation #FutureThinking.
Tuesday Jul 16, 2024
Tuesday Jul 16, 2024
Welcome back to another electrifying episode of the 'Crazy People Podcast'! In Episode 38, your favorite hosts, Russ Broomell and Maurice Hofmann, sit down with the incredible J.K. McKnight, a true visionary and multi-talented entrepreneur whose heart beats for music and community.
J.K. McKnight is not your average entrepreneur. At the tender age of 21, he founded the Forecastle Festival, transforming it from a local dream into a cultural phenomenon that draws 75,000 fans from every corner of the globe. But J.K.'s ambition didn't stop at music; he seamlessly blended art and activism to create a festival that not only entertains but also inspires and drives positive change.
Forecastle Festival is a testament to J.K.'s vision, with its mix of music, art, and environmental activism making waves for over two decades. The festival has had a staggering economic impact of over $300 million on the city of Louisville, KY. Beyond the beats and rhythms, the Forecastle Foundation has made significant strides in environmental protection, preserving over 50,000 acres of land and 300 miles of waterways across three continents.
But J.K.'s innovation doesn't end there. His latest venture, Art of Impact, is revolutionizing the festival industry. This experiential agency specializes in festival consulting and experiential marketing, helping brands connect with elusive demographics like Gen Z and Millennials through unforgettable experiences.
In this episode, J.K. shares his journey from a young visionary to a global influencer. He delves into the intricacies of building a mission-driven festival, the importance of community and environmental stewardship, and the art of creating impactful experiences. Russ and Maurice guide the conversation with their signature blend of humor and insight, making this a must-listen for anyone interested in music, entrepreneurship, or making a difference in the world.
Prepare for an inspiring conversation that covers the power of music, the importance of community building, and the art of turning passion into global impact. J.K.'s accolades speak for themselves—named "Southern of the Year" by Southern Living, "Global Visionary" by the World Affairs Council, and "New Face of Philanthropy" by Louisville Magazine, among others.
Join us for an episode that promises to entertain, educate, and inspire. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and keep the conversation going with these hashtags:
#CrazyPeoplePodcast #JKMcKnight #ForecastleFestival #MusicAndActivism #RussAndMaurice #PodcastLife #FestivalConsulting #Inspiration #CommunityBuilding #EnvironmentalStewardship.
Tuesday Jul 02, 2024
Tuesday Jul 02, 2024
Slam Dunk Success: Mac ‘Magic’ Wilkinson’s Playbook for Life and Business
Ladies and gentlemen, buckle up for the latest installment of the 'Crazy People Podcast'! Episode 37 is here, and this one’s a slam dunk! Your favorite dynamic duo, Russ Broomell and Maurice Hofmann, are joined by none other than the legendary Mac 'Magic' Wilkinson. Mac is the towering 6'9" former pro basketball star turned entrepreneurial wizard whose infectious personality is as impressive as his on-court skills.
Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/DfSJTV65kxA
Listen wherever you get your podcast from!
Mac Wilkinson, the mastermind behind Moolathon, is a living testament to the power of transformation. His journey, which we delve into in this episode, is a riveting tale of a former pro basketball star who turned his passion for graphic design and branding into a global entrepreneurial success. From dominating the basketball courts at the University of Louisville to earning his stripes at Howard University, and then taking his talents to the international pro leagues, Mac's story is a beacon of inspiration.
During this episode, Mac opens up about his evolution from athlete to entrepreneur. He shares how his love for graphic design and branding propelled him to collaborate with global giants like Nike and ANTA and high-profile athletes. But it doesn’t stop there—Mac's mission is deeply rooted in his hometown of Louisville, KY, where he's raising his son and aiming to boost the local economy while making a global impact through Moolathon.
Prepare for an episode filled with laughter, wisdom, and a whirlwind of topics. Mac, Russ, and Maurice dive into hard work, leadership, and the enriching experience of living abroad. They tackle the nuances of building a company from scratch and the invaluable lessons sports impart on young minds. Expect hilarious moments, especially when Maurice forces Mac into an impromptu dinner table scenario. Don't miss the unveiling of Mac's brand-new nickname!
Tune in for this uplifting conversation that’s guaranteed to leave you motivated and entertained. Whether you need a pick-me-up or some entrepreneurial inspiration, this episode has it all.
We want to hear from you! Share your thoughts and spread the word about this inspiring episode using these hashtags: #CrazyPeoplePodcast #MacWilkinson #Moolathon #RussAndMaurice #RussBroomell #MauriceHofmann#PodcastLife #EntrepreneurJourney #SportsAndBusiness #Inspiration #Leadership #FunAndMotivation #MagicJohnson.
Let's build a community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about entrepreneurship, sports, and personal development.
Get ready, because Episode 37 is a game-changer!
Tuesday Jun 18, 2024
Tuesday Jun 18, 2024
Welcome back, Crazy People Podcast fans! Buckle up for an electrifying ride in Episode 36, where your favorite dynamic duo, Russ Broomell and Maurice Hofmann, dive deep into the world of organizational transformation. This week, we're thrilled to have the mastermind behind Scalamento, Stefan Link, joining us. With an impressive background in computer science and a knack for designing self-organized teams since 2003, Stefan has revolutionized companies like Bauer Media, Mondia Media, and Finanzcheck through his innovative IT architectures.
In this episode, Russ, Maurice, and Stefan will be unraveling the secrets of turning traditional companies into agile Beta organizations. Stefan will be sharing his journey from a tech-savvy startup founder to a transformational leader guiding companies through behavioral changes and reorganization. You'll be hearing firsthand about the magic that happens when employees are truly empowered and managers embrace change. This promises to be an engaging and informative discussion that you won't want to miss.
Expect a captivating discussion on the future of work, the importance of modern IT frameworks, and the power of self-organized teams. The synergy between Stefan and our hosts is nothing short of contagious. Trust us; this episode is a goldmine for anyone interested in the future of business and organizational dynamics.
Get ready to be inspired, laugh, and learn with Episode 36 of the Crazy People Podcast! The insights and inspiration you'll gain from this episode could catalyze your next big breakthrough. So, make sure to tune in and be part of this transformative journey.
Tune in, and don't forget to share your thoughts! Don't miss out – this episode will leave you buzzing with new ideas and eager to implement change in your own teams!
#CrazyPeoplePodcast #TeamTransformation #Empowerment #OrganizationalChange #BetaOrganizations #Leadership #Scalamento #RussAndMaurice #BusinessInnovation #FutureOfWork.
Tuesday Jun 04, 2024
Tuesday May 21, 2024
Tuesday May 21, 2024
Welcome back to the "Crazy People Podcast," where the extraordinary becomes the norm and every episode brings you closer to the minds shaping our world! This week, your favorite hosts, Russ Broomell and Maurice Hofmann, are thrilled to welcome a true powerhouse in the tech industry—Jay Christensen. With over 23 years of pioneering experience in cloud hosting, telecommunications, and SaaS, Jay's insights are as deep as they are wide.
In this exhilarating episode, Jay dives into the secrets of successful channel integration, revealing how businesses of all sizes can tap into the enormous potential of today’s global market. From increasing revenue and decreasing churn to bolstering customer loyalty, Jay’s expertise offers invaluable strategies for navigating the complex landscape of modern commerce.
But the excitement doesn't stop there. Join Russ, Maurice, and Jay as they explore the latest developments in AI and its transformative impact on the industry. They’ll also address a critical and timely topic—cybersecurity. With threats escalating for individuals, companies, and public institutions alike, the trio’s discussion is both insightful and urgent. You’ll hear personal anecdotes, including Jay’s son’s venture into cybersecurity and Maurice’s own journey towards safeguarding the digital realm.
Don’t miss this compelling episode packed with expert analysis, lively banter, and practical advice. Tune in to discover how to harness innovation for unparalleled success and stay ahead in an ever-evolving tech landscape.
Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a business leader, or someone eager to learn about the future of technology and security, this episode of the "Crazy People Podcast" is a must-listen. Prepare to be inspired and informed—hit play now!
#CrazyPeoplePodcast #Episode34 #ChannelSales #InnovativeSolutions #CloudHosting #Telecom #SaaS #Cybersecurity #AI #TechInnovation #BusinessGrowth
Tuesday May 07, 2024
Tuesday May 07, 2024
Welcome to a thrilling new installment of the 'Crazy People Podcast,' where unconventional journeys meet unprecedented insights.
Episode 33, hosted by the dynamic duo Russ Broomell and Maurice Hofmann, dives into the fascinating world of cybersecurity with an extraordinary guest, Kelly Freear.
Watch this episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4wCV7bCm35g
Listen wherever you get your podcast from!
In this episode, Kelly Freear, a vibrant and defiant voice in the cybersecurity realm, unpacks her unique path from the echoing halls of a call center to the cutting-edge cybersecurity landscape at BT. Kelly isn't your average expert; she's an ISO 27001 enthusiast, an "amateur spewer of nonsense," and a torchbearer for underrepresented voices in tech. Living with ADHD, EUPD, and dyslexia, Kelly transforms what some might see as hurdles into her superpowers, making her one of the industry's most relatable and inspiring figures.
Kelly's tale is one of tenacity and transformation, beginning with a serendipitous encounter with a BT advertisement that led her to Capslock. In this unusually diverse training cohort, she stood out not just for being one of the few women but for being one who challenges the status quo. In this riveting conversation, Kelly, Russ, and Maurice discuss the stark realities and daily challenges women and diverse individuals face in a traditionally male-dominated field. They delve into the nuances of imposter syndrome, the dire need for diverse role models, and the transformative power of proper training and inclusivity in the workplace.
But it's not all serious—true to the spirit of the 'Crazy People Podcast,' there's a delightful mix of quirky anecdotes and unexpected twists, ensuring that listeners are not just inspired, but also thoroughly entertained and profoundly moved.
So, plug in, prepare to be inspired, and maybe even find a little bit of your own unconventional path in Kelly's story. This episode is a beacon for anyone looking to break barriers and forge paths in the most needed spaces.
Join us for a memorable journey with Kelly Freear in Episode 33 of the 'Crazy People Podcast,' where disruption meets diversity, and every story inspires. Tune in to redefine what's possible in the world of tech and cybersecurity.
#CrazyPeoplePodcast #CybersecurityUnicorn #WomenInTech #DiverseVoices #HackingTheNorm #KellyFreear #ISO27001 #TechDiversity #NeurodiversityInTech #EmpowermentThroughTech #MauriceHofmann #RussBroomell #CrazyPeoplePodcast #ADHD #EUPD #dyslexia
Tuesday Apr 23, 2024
Tuesday Apr 23, 2024
Welcome to Episode 32 of the Crazy People Podcast, your weekly delve into the minds behind today's game-changers and industry leaders! I'm your host Russ Broomell, joined by the ever-insightful Maurice Hofmann. Today, we have the pleasure of hosting a special guest, Nik Hall, Vice President of New Business at Leaf Home. Nik is not just a visionary in the business realm but also a devout follower of Christ, a loving husband, and the co-founder of the thriving brand, VitaFive.
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Find this episode on…
YouTube: https://youtu.be/cmzk6PBbiTc
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5v6uxuhXqXKbvhY5YC5AKN?si=JY30LnGPTsW0rX0kwT6Q9w
… or where ever you listen to your podcasts!!
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In this riveting episode, Nik Hall shares his journey from an 800-square-foot house during his junior year at TCU, to becoming a leader at Leaf Home, a company at the forefront of home solutions. Discover how Nik's faith, passion for health, and commitment to innovation have shaped his approach to business and life.
Nik will explore the challenges and triumphs of starting VitaFive, highlighting how the brand has evolved to offer high-quality, lower-sugar gummy vitamins, making health accessible and enjoyable. He'll also discuss his current role at Leaf Home, where he's pivotal in spearheading new business initiatives to keep the company competitive for the foreseeable future.
Our listeners will gain invaluable insights into driving a business forward, the importance of staying grounded in one's values, and how to relentlessly pursue new opportunities in a dynamic industry.
Tune in to this inspiring episode to see how dedication, innovation, and a clear vision can transform challenges into opportunities for growth and success. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a health enthusiast, or someone looking for a dose of motivation, this episode with Nik Hall is a must-listen!
#CrazyPeoplePodcast #HealthInnovation #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #VitaFive #LeafHome #NikHall #BusinessGrowth #StartupLife
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Share your thoughts and takeaways from this episode on our social media platforms. Don't forget to subscribe for more conversations that explore the cutting edge of business and personal growth. Let's dive into the story of a leader who’s making a significant impact in the world of health and business.
Tune in now to Episode 32 of the Crazy People Podcast – you won’t want to miss it!
Tuesday Apr 09, 2024
Tuesday Apr 09, 2024
Welcome to the groundbreaking Episode 31 of the Crazy People Podcast, where innovation meets impact, hosted by the dynamic duo, Russ Broomell and Maurice Hofmann. This week, we're diving deep with a special guest whose story isn't just inspiring—it's transformative. Meet Beno Weber, the visionary Councilman for Louisville's 8th District, a man who's redefining the essence of political leadership and community empowerment.
In this compelling episode, our hosts Russ and Maurice sit down with Beno Weber, a trailblazer blending the worlds of business acumen and social impact to create a more equitable future for the residents of Louisville, KY. With a career that spans from social entrepreneurship at the World Bank to driving corporate culture change at Boston Consulting Group, Beno brings a wealth of experience to his role as a councilman. His business-minded approach to governance, viewing constituents as customers, is not just innovative; it's a game-changer in political leadership.
Beno's journey is marked by significant milestones, including his time as a Director of the Future of Work Initiative funded by Microsoft, where he worked tirelessly to build a skilled data-economy workforce, emphasizing inclusion and access for marginalized communities. His efforts didn't stop there; as the Deputy Director of the Health Equity Innovation Hub at the University of Louisville, Beno and his team are making groundbreaking strides in making healthcare innovation more accessible and equitable, all while championing the voices of those with lived experiences.
But what does it mean to take a business approach to running a district? How can technology and AI create a future-proof workforce? And in what ways can healthcare innovation become more inclusive? These are just some of the questions we'll unravel with Beno, whose expertise at the intersection of business, technology, and social good promises to leave you both informed and inspired.
Join us for this riveting conversation that's bound to challenge your perspectives on leadership, equality, and the power of community. It's not just an episode; it's a call to action for enabling everyone in our districts and beyond.
#CrazyPeoplePodcast #Leadership #Equality #SocialImpact #Innovation #CommunityEmpowerment #BenoWeber #LouisvilleKY #BusinessMeetsPolitics
Tune in to Episode 31 of the Crazy People Podcast for an unforgettable journey with Beno Weber, where every story shared is a step closer to a more equitable and empowered world. Don't miss out—your view on what it means to lead might just change forever.