Generation Excellence Podcast

In this episode of GENeration EXcellence, we sit down with Alex Saroki, a second-generation partner at Saroki Architecture, the world-class firm his parents founded over 40 years ago in Detroit. Alex shares his journey from schooling to becoming a key player in the family design and architecture business. We explore how he brings process to an art, seamlessly blending classic techniques with modern technology to drive the firm forward. Click to hear Alex's insights on maintaining the legacy while embracing innovation, and how he's excited to help shape and “build” the future of the industry on episode #64 of GENeration EXcellence.

Dr. Zachary (Zach) Linhart is a third-generation dentist, continuing a proud family tradition of excellence in dental care. Following in the footsteps of his grandfather, Dr. Ernest Linhart, and his father, Dr. Jan Linhart, Zach has carved out his own niche in the world of cosmetic and restorative dentistry. With a passion for innovation and patient care, Dr. Linhart specializes in advanced implant and cosmetic cases, ensuring his patients receive the highest quality treatment. So, get ready to "sink your teeth" into this episode! As I’ve had in common with past guests, Dr. Zach is an avid athlete, enjoying sports like squash, skiing, tennis, hockey, and paddle tennis. Join us for episode #65 of GENeration EXcellence as we delve into Dr. Linhart's journey, his insights on the latest advancements in dentistry, and his commitment to creating beautiful, healthy smiles.

Brian Baum is the president & CEO of Interchange Capital Partners a family business advisory firm in Pittsburgh, PA. Brian is himself the second-generation in a business his father founded and where they work closely together. That means he’s seen and addressed firsthand the uniqueness of guiding family business owners and operators on their path to the future. We talked business, we talked family, we talked sports, and we talked about thoughtful disagreement and healthy conflict within family business. (We did ALL that without conflict ourselves.) I trust you will enjoy Brian’s wisdom and drive. If this is a good listen while all on a drive, all the better. Wherever and whenever you listen, please enjoy episode #63 of GENeration EXcellence with Brian Baum. Interchange Capital Partners website https://www.interchangecp.com/

Indianapolis is famous for the Indy 500 and cars reaching speeds over 200 mph. Yet the shutter of a camera can race at 1/500th of a second or faster to capture quick-moving action. In this episode I moved quickly to capture the unique generational story of Lesle Lane, CEO of Studio 13 in metro Indianapolis. Lesle comes from a long line of award-winning photographers, each of whom made their mark with their images and vision for the business. Lesle shares her lifelong involvement in the business and is candid about the rational and emotional happenings along the way. Merge into the fast lane for this 62nd episode of GENeration EXcellence with Lesle Lane.

We headed virtually to Boise, Idaho, to chat with Jaime Ekman, President & CEO of The Stoltz Group. Jaime’s journey started in the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) world, where she gained invaluable experience in sales, marketing, and operations. In this episode, she shares how she purchased the agency from her father, lessons learned along the way, and her vision for creating even more magic in the future. And yes, for Episode 61 of GENeration EXcellence the guest and host share the same name—but don’t let that confuse you. You’re in for a treat. Thank you for listening.

We did it—60 episodes of GENeration EXcellence! But this time, the script flips. Instead of hosting, I’m in the hot seat, interviewed by my two daughters, Rebecca and Brooke. They came prepared, firing off alternating questions like a tennis match. Some were gentle lobs; others were well-placed body serves that kept me on my toes. I appreciate your listening to this special milestone episode filled with stories, surprises, and a lot of fun. Please provide your feedback. We are eager to understand how this episode was received. I’ll be back in my other seat for Episode #61 real soon.

Scott Brandon, CEO of The Brandon Agency in Charleston, shares a captivating business journey rooted in the early days of Myrtle Beach and pioneering golf marketing—GENeration EXcellence in full swing (pun intended!). A lawyer by training, Scott reveals how the agency's rich history informs its future, blending strategy, technology, and hospitality with a dose of humanity and humility. His storytelling touches on everything from photography to leading a collection of specialist firms, leaving us eager for a part two. Enjoy this insightful conversation with Scott Brandon!

We are thrilled to welcome David Maricich, President and Chief Creative Officer of Maricich Health, to the latest episode of the GENeration EXcellence podcast. 🌟 In this insightful conversation David shares his unique journey into Maricich from an early career in the music business. In a fast=moving hour David demonstrates how he blends strategy and creativity. He also does a wonderful job detailing how he teaches and instructs the next generation at Maricich Health, now proudly including his daughter. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration. Listen now and please take a minute to subscribe to the GENeration EXcellence podcast for more episodes featuring leaders and innovators in unique family-led businesses.

Jodie Kaufman Davis is the Executive Vice President of H.W. Kaufman Group, a global network of companies dedicated to shaping the future of insurance. With a career that spans nearly two decades, Jodie has been instrumental in driving growth and innovation within the organization. Jodie talks about loving to juggle multiple balls including work, family, working out, mentoring the next generation of industry leaders, and championing initiatives that foster diversity and inclusion. In this episode, Jodie shared her insights on the importance of adaptive leadership, and how to cultivate a culture that values relationships while embracing new technologies. Get ready to be inspired by Jodie’s story of excellence, her strategic vision for the future, and her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in the business world. Please enjoy this 57th episode of GENeration EXcellence with Jodie Kaufman Davis.

Matt Rossetti is a third-generation architect and President/CEO of Detroit-based Rossetti, an architecture, interior design and urban planning organization that blends the rigor of analytics with the ability to imagine what’s never been done before. Matt sat down to talk about his unique path into the business and how Rossetti has evolved as a global leader in the design of sports complexes along with projects that have contributed mightily to Detroit’s resurgence. If you like sports, business, art, design ... even oceanography, this episode of GENeration EXcellence with Matt Rossetti is for you and is serious fun. Please enjoy, comment and share.