Purpose Maker Podcast

Dr. MJ Wegmann

5.0 (5)
SOCIETY & CULTURE
UPDATED SEMIMONTHLY

Life is challenging. This podcast will guide you through the constant motion of life. Each episode offers practical wisdom and soul-deep insights to help you become a Purpose Maker. Lessons from brilliant and intelligent thinkers with Dr. Wegmann. I invite you to join the conversation.

5D AGO

#22 Redemption's Purpose

In this captivating episode of the Purpose Maker Podcast, host Dr. Wegmann sits down with award-winning author and fellow northern Michigan resident Chad V. Broughman. Chad's debut novel The Fall of Bellwether; won Historical Fiction Book of the Year! We explore the power of storytelling in uncovering life's deeper meanings, drawing from Chad's experiences as an educator, writer, and family man. Chad shares insights into his creative process, the themes of compassion and unity in his work, and how his background in teaching English and Creative Writing influences his narratives. We dive into his debut novel, The Fall of Bellwether, a historical epic that spans time, race, and religion, hailed as a "powerful depiction of humanity’s compassion and pursuit of unity." Whether you're a lifelong learner, book enthusiast, or someone seeking inspiration for your own purpose, this conversation is packed with wisdom for the head, heart, and soul. Connect with Chad: Website: https://chadvbroughman.com Buy The Fall of Bellwether: https://a.co/d/08VBmjff

1h 26m
JAN 17

#21 Phoenix Revival

In this powerful episode of the Purpose Maker Podcast, host Dr. Wegmann sits down with LT Kegan "Smurf" Gill, USN (Ret.) — a former F/A-18E Super Hornet pilot who survived the fastest ejection in Naval Aviation history at a blistering 695 mph, nearly breaking the sound barrier. What should have ended his life (and career) instead became the beginning of an extraordinary comeback. After catastrophic injuries, over a dozen surgeries, battles with prescription drug addiction, undiagnosed brain trauma, and the depths of physical and mental despair, Keegan clawed his way back — not just to walk again, but to return to the cockpit and fly Super Hornets once more. This isn't just a survival story — it's a raw, unfiltered masterclass in rediscovering purpose after everything is stripped away. Keegan opens up about: The terrifying moment of ejection and waking up shattered in a hospital bed. The grueling road of recovery, including groundbreaking alternative therapies like psychedelic-assisted treatment. Breaking free from pain meds and rebuilding his mind, body, and spirit How he now inspires others as a keynote speaker, performance coach, and author of Phoenix Revival. If you've ever felt stuck, broken, or wondered whether it's truly possible to rise from your own wreckage stronger than before — this conversation will light a fire in you. Prepare to be moved, challenged, and deeply inspired by one man's relentless proof that the impossible is just a starting point. Tune in now — because sometimes the greatest purpose emerges from the ashes. Find his book here: https://a.co/d/1t1QiAC Connect with Lt. Kegan "Smurf" Gill here: https://kegangill.com/ SUBSCRIBE on Youtube: @purposemaker Join the FREE newsletter: www.purposemaker.com/newsletter Join an online Mid-Life Wisdom class: https://www.purposemaker.com/wisdomhub Check out our Lifestyle and Wellness store here: https://www.purposemaker.store/ Listen on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PurposeMaker Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4F0XqPt... Follow on Instagram: www.instagram.com/dr.wegmann Follow on Facebook: www.facebook.com/purposemaker #purposemaker #drwegmann #kegangill #phoenixrevival

1h 37m
12/19/2025

#20 Unpacking Identity & Purpose

Join host Dr. Wegmann (Coach MJ) for an enlightening conversation with Brian Wagner, a trailblazing entrepreneur and packaging industry icon with over 40 years of experience. In this episode of "Unpacking Identity and Purpose," Brian shares his journey from co-founding PTIS to leadership roles at powerhouse companies like Sara Lee, Kellogg's, and Burger King. Inducted into the Michigan State University School of Packaging Hall of Fame and recipient of the prestigious Riester-Davis-Brody Lifetime Achievement Award, Brian dives deep into how discovering one's core identity fuels purposeful innovation and lasting impact. Explore the intersection of personal purpose and professional success as Brian unpacks strategies for building resilient brands, fostering sustainable practices, and creating value that transcends industries. Drawing from his contributions to publications like "Fundamentals of Packaging Technology" and "Creating Value Through Packaging," this discussion offers actionable insights for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone seeking to align their identity with meaningful goals. Tune in to rediscover your own purpose and learn how to turn it into a powerful force for change. Connect with Brian: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-wagner-a98395/ PTIS Global, LLC: https://ptisglobal.com/ SUBSCRIBE on Youtube: @purposemaker Join the FREE newsletter: www.purposemaker.com/newsletter Check out our Lifestyle and Wellness store here: https://www.purposemaker.store/ Join an online Mid-Life Wisdom class: https://www.purposemaker.com/wisdomhub Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4F0XqPt... Follow on Instagram: www.instagram.com/dr.wegmann Follow on Facebook: www.facebook.com/purposemaker #purposemaker #drwegmann

1h 28m
12/12/2025

#19 Beauty & Purpose

Join us for an insightful conversation with Jonathan Lee, founder of Jonathan Lee Architects and one of the Midwest’s leading classical architects. Raised as a missionary kid in the Congo, Jonathan earned his Master of Architecture from the University of Michigan, with advanced studies at the Technical University of Vienna. He refined his craft in the New York offices of Charles Warren and Ferguson & Shamamian Architects before serving as Chair of Design for the University of Notre Dame’s Rome Studies Program. Since establishing his firm in 1999, Jonathan has designed distinguished classical residences along Michigan’s Gold Coast, in Northern Michigan, Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, Palm Beach, Greenwich, and beyond. His work has been featured in The Classicist, Period Homes, and the Institute of Classical Architecture’s “A Decade of Art & Architecture.” In this episode, Jonathan discusses how early cross-cultural experiences shaped his design philosophy, the enduring relevance of classical proportion and craft, and the quiet power of homes that nurture clarity, calm, and continuity across generations. A thoughtful exploration of architecture, purpose, and the art of building places that help us live well. Purpose Maker Show Links SUBSCRIBE on Youtube: @purposemaker Join the FREE newsletter: www.purposemaker.com/newsletter Check out our Lifestyle and Wellness store here: https://www.purposemaker.store/ Join an online Mid-Life Wisdom class: https://www.purposemaker.com/wisdomhub Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4F0XqPt... Follow on Instagram: www.instagram.com/dr.wegmann Follow on Facebook: www.facebook.com/purposemaker Purpose Maker Podcast Playlist: Purpose Maker - YouTube #purposemaker #drwegmann

1h 8m
11/26/2025

#18 Mid-life Mission; 12 Step Guide to Meaning

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Ernie Wood, a Detroit-born sailor, veteran, author, and lifelong public servant who has lived a life of service in the truest sense. Raised in the Motor City, Ernie left home at just 17 to join the U.S. Navy, where he would go on to serve 20 proud years before retiring. Twelve of those years were spent aboard three different destroyer ships, standing watch and keeping the seas safe during a pivotal era of American naval history. But Ernie’s service didn’t stop at sea. After his time on the water, he took on two deeply meaningful shore duties: working as an addiction counselor helping fellow sailors find their way back, and later serving as a Navy police officer, protecting the bases and the people who call them home. Out of his own experiences and hard-won wisdom, Ernie penned the powerful book 12 Steps to Happiness – a heartfelt guide to finding joy and purpose no matter what life throws at you. Today, you’ll find Ernie keeping America’s skies safe as a radar technician with the Federal Aviation Administration, living among the Blue Ridge Mountains in beautiful Asheville, North Carolina – though he’s already counting the days until he returns home to Michigan in retirement. In this episode, Ernie shares stories from the destroyer mess decks, lessons learned counseling those in need, what true happiness really looks like after two decades in uniform, and why – no matter how far he’s traveled – Michigan will always be home. If you love stories of resilience, service, second careers, and finding happiness on your own terms, you don’t want to miss this one. Purpose Maker Show Links SUBSCRIBE on Youtube: @purposemaker Join the FREE newsletter: www.purposemaker.com/newsletter Check out our Lifestyle and Wellness store here: https://www.purposemaker.store/ Join an online Mid-Life Wisdom class: https://www.purposemaker.com/wisdomhub Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4F0XqPt... Follow on Instagram: www.instagram.com/dr.wegmann Follow on Facebook: www.facebook.com/purposemaker Purpose Maker Podcast Playlist: Purpose Maker - YouTube #purposemaker #drwegmann

1h 21m
11/10/2025

#17 Purpose Built; Architect of the Future

Join host Dr. Wegmann on the Purpose Maker podcast as we dive into the inspiring story of Jim Rummer, Michigan's 2023 CTE Administrator of the Year. From expanding a handful of vocational programs into over 20 innovative pathways—like drone tech, lineworker training, and mobile Street STEM—Jim has revolutionized career education in Northern Michigan, empowering thousands of students to discover high-paying, fulfilling trades. In this episode, Jim shares his midlife purpose to champion hands-on learning, overcoming community challenges to secure funding and build industry partnerships. Gain wisdom on persistence, collaboration, and redefining success beyond traditional degrees. Whether you're seeking your own purpose or mentoring the next generation, Jim's journey proves it's never too late to forge brighter futures. Tune in for a great conversation on turning passion into impact!

57 min
10/10/2025

#16 Beyond the Scoreboard; Purpose in Motion

Tune into this episode of the Purpose Maker Podcast for "Beyond the Scoreboard: Purpose in Motion," where we sit down with Dennis Starkey—the Petoskey High School basketball legend who dedicated 32 seasons to the court, amassing over 550 wins, hall of fame accolades, and a trail of transformed lives. Dennis sits down and discusses the unyielding drive that fueled his legacy: It's a masterclass in resilience, heart, and discovering your why amid LIFE's relentless rhythm. Whether you're a coach, parent, business owner, or just navigating your own challenges, this episode will equip you with the wisdom to step up stronger. Hit play, and let's explore this coach's mindset.

43 min
09/19/2025

#15 Verdicts and Values; The Purpose Driven Career

Join us on Purpose Maker as we sit down with Joseph W. Shea III, one of the Midwest’s most accomplished trial attorneys. Through the lens of Transitions, Identity, and Purpose, Joe shares his journey from philosophy student to securing record-breaking verdicts like $8.3M in Hamilton County, his identity as an ethical leader honored with the Ohio State Bar Association’s Ritter Award, and his purpose-driven mission to deliver justice for families facing lifelong challenges. Discover how Joe’s career and personal passions—boating, biking, and community involvement—reflect a life dedicated to impact and integrity.

42 min

5

out of 5

5 Ratings

POD #21

Jan 20

JD P-Town

Great pod. Loved it.

Life is challenging. This podcast will guide you through the constant motion of life. Each episode offers practical wisdom and soul-deep insights to help you become a Purpose Maker. Lessons from brilliant and intelligent thinkers with Dr. Wegmann. I invite you to join the conversation.

Creator

Dr. MJ Wegmann
Years Active

2024 - 2026
Episodes

22
Rating

Explicit
Show Website

Purpose Maker Podcast