Elevate Podcast: Powered by Braden

lknauer

Welcome to the Elevate podcast, where we host local leaders, both from businesses that are for-profit and non-profit, and that have shaped our community. If you’re looking for leadership insights, wanting to learn more about elevating your skills in business, then Elevate was made for you.

  1. 6d ago

    Elevate Ep 75: Paul Gifford, Chief Investment Officer of Wealth Advisory Services at 1st Source Bank

    What does it take to build a career defined by trust, leadership, and meaningful relationships? In this episode of the Elevate Podcast, host Jason Ulm sits down with Paul Gifford, Chief Investment Officer of Wealth Advisory Services at 1st Source Bank, to explore his journey from working in his family's Minnesota grocery store to a leadership role in investment management. Paul shares the lessons that shaped his career, the importance of mentorship and client relationships, and how emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, are influencing wealth management and the client experience. He also reflects on 1st Source Bank's history, the value of community involvement, and why the most rewarding parts of leadership often extend far beyond a paycheck. Discover how perseverance, innovation, and a people-first mindset can create a lasting impact. Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Elevate, Powered by Braden 00:20 Meet Paul Gifford of 1st Source Bank 00:53 Growing Up in Minnesota 01:26 Early Leadership Lessons from the Family Business 03:08 Discovering a Passion for Investing 04:35 Early Career Experiences and Learning from Rejection 07:20 Starting a Banking Career at Bremer Bank 08:42 Career Growth and Earning the CFA Designation 09:35 The Christmas Eve Call That Changed Everything 11:08 Building a Career at 1st Source Bank 11:59 The Meaning of Psychic Income and Client Relationships 13:44 The History and Resilience of 1st Source Bank 15:26 Inside the Role of Chief Investment Officer 16:15 How Technology and AI Are Changing Wealth Management 19:50 Using Technology to Enhance the Client Experience 20:58 The Importance of Community and Giving Back 22:47 Supporting the South Bend Medical Foundation 25:05 Life Outside Work and Closing Reflections About The Elevate Podcast: The Elevate Podcast brings you conversations with influential business and community leaders who are shaping the future of Indiana and Illinois. Through authentic stories and meaningful discussions, we explore the experiences, decisions, and values that define great leadership. Presented by Braden Business Systems, a trusted technology partner helping organizations grow, improve efficiency, and navigate change. Learn more about Braden Business Systems: https://www.bradenonline.com Subscribe to Elevate for more conversations about entrepreneurship, leadership, business growth, innovation, and community impact. The Elevate Podcast is powered by Braden Business Systems, hosted by Jason Ulm, and produced by Lauren Knauer. Keywords: Paul Gifford, 1st Source Bank, Elevate Podcast, Braden Business Systems, banking leadership, wealth management, Chief Investment Officer, leadership podcast, investment management, AI in banking, artificial intelligence in finance, financial services leadership, client relationships, community leadership, South Bend Indiana, business leadership, career development, mentorship, banking innovation, financial technology

  2. Oct 28

    Elevate EP 74: Zac Overton, Managing Partner at Overton Industries

    In this episode of the Elevate Podcast, host Jason Ulm sits down with Zach Overton, Managing Partner and third-generation owner of Overton Industries, to explore family business succession, manufacturing leadership, business growth, and the importance of community. Throughout the conversation, Zach discusses the realities of transitioning ownership across generations, developing future leaders, adopting artificial intelligence in manufacturing, and navigating cybersecurity and compliance challenges. Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Elevate, Powered by Braden 00:19 Meet Zach Overton, Third-Generation Business Owner 00:57 Growing Up in Mooresville, Indiana 03:20 The History of Overton Industries 05:16 Early Lessons in Business and Community 07:22 Finding His Own Career Path 09:46 Earning His Place in the Family Business 12:33 Starting His Career at Overton Industries 15:00 Developing Leadership Through Sales 18:12 Planning the Family Business Transition 20:06 The People Side of Business Leadership 26:18 Manufacturing Innovation and Automation 30:00 The Future of AI in Manufacturing 31:53 Cybersecurity and CMMC Compliance 35:08 Why Community Matters to Overton Industries 37:13 Supporting Children Through the League of Miracles 41:30 Lessons in Leadership and Family Legacy 42:35 Finding Balance Beyond Business 45:09 Embracing Failure and Personal Growth 46:12 Final Thoughts and Closing About the Elevate Podcast: The Elevate Podcast brings you conversations with influential business and community leaders who are shaping the future of Indiana and Illinois. Through authentic stories and meaningful discussions, we explore the experiences, decisions, and values that define great leadership. The Elevate Podcast is powered by Braden Business Systems, hosted by Jason Ulm, and produced by Lauren Knauer. Keywords: Zach Overton, Overton Industries, Elevate Podcast, Braden Business Systems, family business succession, third generation family business, manufacturing leadership, family owned business, business leadership podcast, Indiana business leaders, manufacturing industry, AI in manufacturing, manufacturing automation, CMMC compliance, business succession planning, leadership development, entrepreneurship, business growth, community leadership, Indianapolis business podcast

  3. Oct 27

    Elevate Ep 73: Phillip Berry, Founder & CEO of Northwind Health Company

    In this episode of the Elevate Podcast, host Jason Ulm sits down with Phillip Berry to explore his entrepreneurial journey, the growth of Northwind Health, and the leadership philosophy that has helped shape a company focused on improving healthcare outcomes. Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Elevate, Powered by Braden 00:36 Meet Phillip Berry, Founder and CEO of Northwind Health 00:58 Early Life, Family, and Entrepreneurial Influences 03:00 Butler University and the Path to Business 04:28 Building a Career in Technology and Sales 06:04 Discovering the Entrepreneurial Mindset 07:33 Balancing Family, Career, and Ambition 09:33 The Journey Toward Starting Northwind Health 11:30 Learning Business Acquisitions and Taking the Leap 13:17 The Early Challenges of Entrepreneurship 14:27 Discovering Opportunities in Employer Healthcare 16:52 Growing Northwind Health and Expanding Services 19:13 Challenging Traditional Prescription Drug Pricing 23:01 Business Growth and Responding to Customer Needs 25:17 Purpose-Driven Growth and Helping People Flourish 28:00 Improving Healthcare Access and Affordability 30:00 Lessons Learned from Building a Business 33:16 Overcoming Challenges and Building Resilience 36:30 The Future of Healthcare, Data, and AI 40:02 Balancing Technology with Human-Centered Care 42:09 Community Involvement and Company Values 44:10 Stewardship, Service, and Social Impact 46:22 Why Flourishing and Business Success Go Together 48:09 Family, Faith, and Life Outside of Work 50:04 Lifelong Learning and Personal Growth 52:05 Closing Remarks The Elevate Podcast is powered by Braden Business Systems, hosted by Jason Ulm, and produced by Lauren Knauer. About the Elevate Podcast: The Elevate Podcast brings you conversations with influential business and community leaders who are shaping the future of Indiana and Illinois. Through authentic stories and meaningful discussions, we explore the experiences, decisions, and values that define great leadership. Presented by Braden Business Systems, a trusted technology partner helping organizations grow, improve efficiency, and navigate change. Learn more about Braden Business Systems: https://www.bradenonline.com Subscribe to Elevate for more conversations about entrepreneurship, leadership, business growth, innovation, and community impact. Keywords: Phillip Berry, Northwind Health, Phillip Berry Northwind Health, Elevate Podcast, Braden Business Systems, healthcare innovation, healthcare leadership, healthcare entrepreneurship, CEO leadership, business growth, entrepreneurship podcast, Indiana business leaders, Indianapolis entrepreneurs, healthcare costs, employer healthcare benefits, self funded health plans, prescription drug pricing, purpose driven leadership, business leadership podcast, healthcare technology, AI in healthcare, servant leadership

  4. Oct 26

    Elevate Ep 72: Shelly Langona, CEO and Owner of RJE Interiors

    What does it take to step into a family business, establish your own leadership identity, and build a company culture where people thrive? In this episode of the **Elevate Podcast, host Jason Ulm sits down with Shelly Langona, CEO and Owner of RJE Interiors, to explore her journey from nonprofit work to leading a second-generation, Indianapolis-based business. Shelly shares how her early career at United Way of Central Indiana helped shape her approach to relationship-building, communication, and leadership. She also discusses the lessons she learned working alongside her father, navigating the responsibilities of a family-owned business, and developing her own leadership philosophy. The conversation goes beyond business ownership to explore how workplace design influences employee experiences, why company culture requires intentional effort, and how emerging technologies like artificial intelligence are changing the way businesses operate. 00:00 Introduction to Elevate and Shelly Langona 00:40 Meet Shelly Langona, CEO of RJE Interiors 00:55 Growing Up in Greenwood and Center Grove 02:01 Choosing Indiana State University and Studying Business 03:53 Finding a Career Path After College 04:30 Starting at United Way of Central Indiana 05:24 Building Communication and Sales Skills 07:42 The Power of Relationships and Networking 09:16 An Unexpected Opportunity in the Family Business 11:38 Joining RJE Interiors and Establishing Credibility 15:05 Growing from Sales into Leadership 18:24 Navigating the Family Business Succession 19:12 What RJE Interiors Does and Who It Serves 22:35 Creating a People-First Company Culture 23:59 Building Culture Through Town Halls and Shared Learning 27:04 Technology and the Future of Workplace Design 28:57 Artificial Intelligence in the Design Industry 30:43 Community, Purpose, and Giving Back 35:25 Finding Your Own Leadership Identity 37:32 Life Beyond the Office and Finding Joy The Elevate Podcast is powered by Braden Business Systems, hosted by Jason Ulm, and produced by Lauren Knauer Keywords: Shelly Langona, RJE Interiors, Elevate Podcast, Braden Business Systems, Family Business Leadership, Second Generation Business, Women in Leadership, Indianapolis Business Leaders, Company Culture, Workplace Design, Business Leadership Podcast, Family Business Succession, Employee Engagement, Leadership Development, Indiana Entrepreneurs, People First Leadership, Future of Work, Business Growth Strategies, AI in Workplace Design, Leadership Lessons Learn more: https://www.bradenonline.com Subscribe for more conversations about business leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation, and the people making an impact across Indiana and beyond. #ElevatePodcast #BusinessLeadership #FamilyBusiness #ShellyLangona #RJEInteriors

  5. Oct 22

    Elevate Ep 71 Pt. 2: Mac Schilling, CEO & President of TwoPointO Capital, LLC

    We're back with Part 2 of a special Elevate Podcast feature! Following yesterday's episode with Justin Padgett, we're welcoming Mac Schilling, CEO and President of TwoPointO Capital, LLC. Justin and Mac have worked together as colleagues, and bring to us their shared experience at Valeo, as well how they got to their leadership positions today, and what advice they have for others. In this episode, host Jason Ulm sits down with Mac Schilling to explore his unconventional journey from studying biology at Indiana University to practicing corporate law, building a career in business, and ultimately leading a real estate investment firm. Mac shares how curiosity, meaningful relationships, mentorship, and calculated risks shaped his career. He also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the growth of TwoPointO Capital, the importance of trust in real estate investing, and why evaluating people is just as important as evaluating financial opportunities. Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Elevate and Mac Schilling 01:18 Growing Up in Michigan and Early Leadership Lessons 03:16 Indiana University and Finding a Career Direction 05:05 From Biology to Law School and Business 06:24 Corporate Law, Mergers and Acquisitions 07:39 Career Transitions and the Power of Networking 09:56 Why Curiosity Builds Meaningful Business Relationships 11:48 Joining Valeo and Leading Through Uncertainty 13:07 Building Teams and Investment Operations 16:50 Why Investing in People Comes First 18:23 Real Estate Investment Due Diligence and Trust 21:37 How AI and Technology Are Changing Real Estate 23:29 Using Automation to Make Time for What Matters 24:59 Community, Service and Leadership Responsibility 27:29 Developing a Personal Mission Statement 28:04 Be a Fountain, Not a Drain 30:19 Family, Personal Priorities and Closing Thoughts Learn more about TwoPointO Capital, LLC: tpo-captial.com The Elevate Podcast is powered by Braden Business Systems, hosted by Jason Ulm, and produced by Lauren Knauer. Keywords: Mac Schilling, 2.0 Capital, Elevate Podcast, Braden Business Systems, leadership podcast, business leadership, real estate investing, real estate investment, CEO leadership, entrepreneurship, leadership development, business networking, Indiana business, Indianapolis business, mentorship, AI in real estate, real estate leadership, business growth, community leadership, career development, strategic partnerships, people first leadership, Jason podcast

  6. Oct 21

    Elevate Ep 71 Part 1: Justin Padgett, President at Valeo Financial Advisors, LLC

    Welcome to Season 3 of the Elevate Podcast. and our 71st Elevate Podcast episode! With that, it's a first for us, which is a two part episode! We have two fantastic leaders on the show, with today's guest being Justin Padgett, President at Valeo Financial. Tomorrow's guest will feature Mac Schilling, former Lead Advisor at Valeo Financial, but now is CEO & President of his own company, TwoPointO Capital, LLC. What does it take to build a successful business, lead through change, and create a lasting impact in your community? Justin shares how early experiences at Indiana University's Kelley School of Business, internships, and working alongside entrepreneurs shaped his approach to leadership. He discusses the importance of building strong relationships, scaling organizations, developing future talent, and knowing when it's time to embrace a new challenge. Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Elevate Podcast 00:43 Meet Justin Padgett, President of Valeo Financial Advisors 00:59 Growing Up in Indianapolis 02:05 Early Lessons from Sports and First Jobs 05:00 Indiana University and the Kelley School of Business 06:16 Why Every Business Is a People Business 07:14 Graduating into a Challenging Job Market 08:00 Internships That Shaped His Career 10:18 The Power of Giving Good Advice 11:25 Why Internships Matter for Future Leaders 13:06 Starting a Career in Financial Services 14:09 Working with Entrepreneurs and Business Owners 16:03 Building Relationships and Understanding Clients 22:06 Building a Real Estate Investment Business 26:37 Real Estate Growth and Economic Impact 29:10 Self-Awareness and the Next Leadership Challenge 30:13 Scaling a Business and Building Executive Teams 31:31 How Technology Is Transforming Financial Services 33:18 AI, Data and Business Innovation 35:19 Why Human Connection Still Matters 36:47 What Community Means to Justin 37:57 Giving Back Through Corporate Philanthropy 41:12 Family, Hobbies and Creating Lasting Memories 42:43 Closing Remarks Learn more about Valeo Financial, LLC: ValeoFinancial.com Learn more about the Elevate Podcast on our webpage: bradenonline.com/about-us/elevate-podcast/ Subscribe for more conversations about leadership, entrepreneurship, business growth, technology, and community impact. Tune into Part 2 of this episode on October 22nd. The Elevate Podcast is powered by Braden Business Systems, hosted by Jason Ulm, and produced by Lauren Knauer. Keywords: Justin Padgett, Valeo Financial Advisors, Elevate Podcast, Braden Business Systems, business leadership, entrepreneurship, leadership development, business growth, financial services, financial advisors, Indiana business leaders, Indianapolis entrepreneurs, leadership podcast, scaling a business, AI in financial services, community impact, people first leadership, executive leadership, business mentorship, Kelley School of Business, business strategy, professional development #ElevatePodcast #JustinPadgett #BusinessLeadership

  7. Oct 19

    Elevate Ep 70: Leadership Elevated with Jaime Zawmon, Founder & President of Titan CEO and Titan 100

    And just like that, the titans and the Bradens unite. Big news for Indiana business leaders! A new era of leadership, recognition, and opportunity is here. In this special episode of the Elevate Podcast powered by Braden Business Systems, host Jason Ulm sits down with Jaime Zawmon, President and Founder of Titan CEO and the Titan 100, to celebrate a major milestone: the official announcement of Braden Business Systems' partnership with the Titan 100 as the prestigious leadership program expands into Indianapolis! What started as one entrepreneur's vision has grown into a powerful national network spanning 13 markets and approximately 3,500 exceptional leaders. Now, the Titan 100 is bringing that momentum to Indiana, recognizing the state's most influential CEOs and connecting them with an elite community of innovators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers. Jaime shares her entrepreneurial journey, the inspiration behind Titan CEO, and why the most successful leaders know they can't do it alone. From executive peer groups and meaningful connections to the impact of AI on business, this conversation explores what it truly takes to lead, grow, and leave a lasting legacy. In this episode we cover: - The exciting Braden Business Systems and Titan 100 partnership announcement. - What the inaugural Indianapolis Titan 100 means for Indiana business leaders. - How CEOs can be nominated and recognized for their leadership. - Why executive connections, mentorship, and community fuel business success. - How technology and AI are shaping the future of leadership. Great leaders build successful businesses. Exceptional leaders build lasting legacies. Join us as we celebrate the next chapter of leadership excellence in Indiana! Learn more about Titan 100: https://www.titan100.com Learn more about Braden's Partnership with the Titan 100: https://bradenonline.com/about-us/titan-100/ The Elevate Podcast is powered by Braden Business Systems, hosted by Jason Ulm, and produced by Lauren Knauer. #Titan100 #Titan100Indiana #BradenBusinessSystems #ElevatePodcast #IndianaBusiness #ExecutiveLeadership

  8. Oct 13

    Elevate Ep 69: Building Champions with Blake Balcaen, Vice President of True Lacrosse

    In this episode of the Elevate Podcast, host Jason Ulm sits down virtually with Blake Balcaen all the way from New York to explore his journey from college lacrosse player to helping lead one of the nation's expanding youth lacrosse organizations. After graduating from Pace University with an MBA in Corporate Finance, Blake faced a career-defining decision: pursue a traditional finance career in New York City or take a chance on building a youth lacrosse program from the ground up. He chose the unexpected path. Today, the Westchester True Lacrosse program has grown to nearly 400 players, and Blake helps oversee programs across the Northeast. But for him, success isn't simply measured by growth or victories. It's measured by the opportunities created for young athletes and the life lessons they carry beyond the field. Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Elevate Podcast 00:45 Meet Blake, Vice President of True Lacrosse 01:28 Growing Up with a Passion for Sports 02:26 Playing College Lacrosse at Pace University 03:06 Turning an Unexpected Challenge into Opportunity 04:38 Navigating Career Decisions After College 05:22 Taking a Chance on True Lacrosse 06:31 Why Being Open to Opportunities Matters 07:28 Building a Youth Lacrosse Program from Scratch 08:40 Growing to Nearly 400 Players and Expanding Leadership 10:16 The History and National Growth of True Lacrosse 11:24 Why Coaching Is About More Than Winning 12:51 Helping Student-Athletes Navigate College Recruiting 14:17 Finding Purpose Through Mentorship 15:12 How AI and Technology Are Changing Youth Sports 16:06 Social Media's Role in Athlete Exposure and Recruiting 18:17 What Community and Leadership Really Mean 20:26 Life Outside of Work and Personal Growth 21:36 Final Thoughts and Closing The Elevate Podcast is powered by Braden Business Systems, hosted by Jason Ulm, and produced by Lauren Knauer. Keywords: True Lacrosse, youth sports leadership, lacrosse coaching, college lacrosse recruiting, Blake True Lacrosse, Elevate Podcast, Braden Business Systems, youth athlete development, leadership through sports, sports mentorship, lacrosse player development, college athlete to entrepreneur, sports business leadership, youth sports coaching, True Lacrosse Westchester, student athlete recruiting, leadership development, coaching young athletes, entrepreneurship podcast, community leadership, AI in youth sports

About

Welcome to the Elevate podcast, where we host local leaders, both from businesses that are for-profit and non-profit, and that have shaped our community. If you’re looking for leadership insights, wanting to learn more about elevating your skills in business, then Elevate was made for you.