Success Unscripted

Michael Costigan

On Success Unscripted, Mike Costigan dives into real, unfiltered conversations about what success truly means. Each episode explores topics like purpose, balance, legacy, mentorship, and impact—going beyond titles, wealth, and accolades. Through candid stories, lessons, and reflections, Mike and his guests uncover how fulfillment comes not just from achievements, but from the meaning we create and the lives we touch.

Episodes

  1. 09/22/2025

    On Business Pitfalls and Being Your Own Advocate in the Legal System, with Scott Geise

    This episode features Scott Geise, author of A Disturbing Injustice, discussing his definition of success and harrowing experiences. Scott recounts business pitfalls, including the loss of key staff (hygienists) who left his dental practice to compete, a common challenge amplified by the reliance patients have on them for maintenance. He details his venture to improve tourism by bringing an 80-foot historic WWII Coast Guard schooner to Alcott Harbor. This project led to immense financial and legal strain after the boat was damaged while pulled from the water. The damage to the crucial garboard plank was irreparable due to the lack of longleaf pine, ultimately leading to the boat being scuttled. Scott was forced to handle extensive litigation (at one point with four lawyers), financially draining him. He notes that prosecutors may use financial strain to compel a plea. Scott shares crucial lessons learned: you must be your own advocate in the legal system, as he realized government prosecutors sometimes bend rules to win. He stresses the importance of integrity (citing Warren Buffett) and the unwavering support of family and true friends during crises. The conversation also covers Scott's experience playing for Hall of Fame coaches John Beilein and Dave Urick, whose Hobart lacrosse team won 12 consecutive national championships. The episode ends discussing his year-round, heated swim spa.

About

On Success Unscripted, Mike Costigan dives into real, unfiltered conversations about what success truly means. Each episode explores topics like purpose, balance, legacy, mentorship, and impact—going beyond titles, wealth, and accolades. Through candid stories, lessons, and reflections, Mike and his guests uncover how fulfillment comes not just from achievements, but from the meaning we create and the lives we touch.