Let's Talk Legacy

Bridget Cook-Burch, a New York Times & Wall Street Journal Best-selling author, writing mentor, and speaker, as well as the CEO and Founder of Inspired Legacy Publishing, shares the details of her near death experience, what she learned from writing about gang members and serial killers, the power of story, the joy of fish mongering, having passion to your persistence, and why legacy is in the name of ALL of her businesses.Hear Bridget's full interview in Episode 60 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Bridget Cook-Burch, a New York Times & Wall Street Journal Best-selling author, writing mentor, and speaker, as well as the CEO and Founder of Inspired Legacy Publishing, shares the details of her near death experience, what she learned from writing about gang members and serial killers, the power of story, the joy of fish mongering, having passion to your persistence, and why legacy is in the name of ALL of her businesses.

Tom Kaiser, the Managing Partner at Masterful Coaching, renowned expert in the field of collaboration, and a top insurance executive, explains the idea of terrorism insurance, and why insurance, and a full insurance PLAN is critical.Hear Tom's full interview in Episode 59 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Tom Kaiser, the Managing Partner at Masterful Coaching, renowned expert in the field of collaboration, and a top insurance executive, explains how his time in the Air Force led him to the insurance field, pioneering the idea of terrorism insurance, why insurance, and a full insurance PLAN is critical, and shares his legacy within the industry, as well as something free for listeners.

Haleh Shoa, founder and CEO of Picturli, shares about the unique family trauma that led to the start of her company, accidentally uncovering secret families, and using technology to uncover hidden history.Hear Haleh's full interview in Episode 58 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Haleh Shoa, founder and CEO of Picturli, a photo organization and archiving studio that helps families, individuals, and businesses transform their photo collection into one sortable digital library, shares the unique family trauma that led to the start of her company, the lessons she learned from the corporate work with Apple and more, how she’s keeping people’s memories secure in the digital age, a connection to Cher, curating collections spanning almost 180 years, accidentally uncovering secret families, and using technology to uncover hidden history.

Behaviorist, psychology researcher, and expert on the topic of resilience, Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe, explains the 5 Pillars of resilience, and what makes each piece essential.Hear Dr. Hanley-Dafoe's full interview in Episode 57 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Behaviorist, psychology researcher, and expert on the topic of resiliency, Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe, explains how to stay resilient even in the face of hardship, how to prioritize and set goals, the 5 Pillars of resilience, the importance of taking a pause, the perspective shift brought on by her podcast co-host, navigating the realms of wellness, and the role of perseverance in building your legacy.

Attorney Isaac Wright, Jr. explains how he was able to create new law and use it to secure the release of a fellow inmate before successfully applying it to his own case, and overturning his own wrongful conviction.Hear Isaac's full interview in Episode 56 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Isaac Wright, Jr. successfully fought his own wrongful conviction to life in prison, and has spent years since clearing his own name as well as those of other inmates in similar circumstances. Hear the incredible story of how he fought the system from within and prevailed, and how he has used that knowledge to not only cement himself a legal legacy, but used it to clear and preserve the legacies of countless others.

Shawn Meaike, Founder, President, and CEO of Family First Life Insurance, shares the story of the day that changed his perspective on everything, and what makes the relationship between FFL and Southwestern Legacy special.Hear Shawn's full interview in Episode 55 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Shawn Meaike, Founder, President, and CEO of Family First Life Insurance, shares how his early career in social work primed him for his future in insurance, the story of the day that changed his perspective on everything, the wealth of products now available to protect families, what makes the relationship between FFL and Southwestern Legacy special, and what kind of legacy he wants to leave for generations to come.

Author, speaker, and above all, father, Chris Cochran, shares the equally tragic and uplifting story of his son Christian, what Christian believed in, and why to make To-Love lists instead of To-Do lists.Hear Chris's full interview in Episode 54 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Author, speaker, and above all, father, Chris Cochran, shares the equally tragic and uplifting story of his son Christian and how he's carrying on his son's legacy through the Christian Cochran Legacy Fund, the way acceptance leads to gratitude, why to make To-Love lists instead of To-Do lists, and the one universal thing we all deal with.

Author Debra Yates explains how an important woman in Native American history, her seventh-great-grandmother, Nancy Ward, crossed paths with major figures like Daniel Boone, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington. Hear Debra's full interview in Episode 53 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Author Debra Yates shares the details of her book, "Woman of Many Names", about an important woman in Native American history, her seventh-great-grandmother, Nancy Ward. Hear how Ward's life marked the fulfillment of a long-foretold prophecy, and about her connections to King George II, Daniel Boone, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, the Mayflower, and the Salem Witch Trials.

Andrei Mincov, attorney and founder/CEO of Trademark Factory®, reveals which company went from a “lemonade stand with a dream” to a global, multi-billion dollar valued, household name.Hear Andrei's full interview in Episode 52 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Andrei Mincov, attorney and founder/CEO of Trademark Factory®, reveals his first and favorite client, what had him feeling like Rambo, why Elon Musk definitely is not an idiot, what a trademark is and what it isn’t, which company went from a “lemonade stand with a dream” to a multi-billion dollar valuation, and just what the heck is a Drum Desk?

Holocaust survivor Janet Singer Applefield shares the details of her evasion of detainment, forcing her to live under many names, how she survived to be reunited with family, and the struggle to forgive those who wronged her.Hear Janet's full interview in Episode 51 of Let's Talk Legacy.

As a child survivor of the Holocaust, Janet Singer Applefield has spent over 40 years speaking to raise awareness and understanding of the dangers of prejudice, and leave a legacy of acceptance and love.  Hear the story of her escape, survival, and reuniting with family, and how the experience has led her to a mission of preserving the Jewish legacy and fighting hate speech and injustice by connecting the past and the present.

Hal Donaldson, president and CEO of Convoy of Hope, recounts the life-changing experience of meeting Mother Teresa, and the advice that she offered him.Hear Hal's full interview in Episode 50 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Hal Donaldson, president and CEO of Convoy of Hope, talks about meeting Mother Teresa, living on the streets for research, receiving a perspective-changing health scare, the importance of life insurance to his employees, the simple value of just doing the next kind thing, and creating a different kind of bucket list, and why no one has a monopoly on compassion.

Amanda Bauer-Frisch, serial entrepreneur and the CEO of the Enduring Legacy Company, explains the idea behind her TED talk, and why simply participating, not necessarily winning or failing, is powerful.Hear Amanda's full interview in Episode 49 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Amanda Bauer-Frisch, serial entrepreneur and the CEO of the Enduring Legacy Company, talks about the grief and loss that shaped her first product, the importance of teaching kids about financial literacy, why the word "legacy" shows up in almost all of her businesses, and how she's helping to uplift not only her customers, but her employees as well.

Garrett Neiman, serial nonprofit entrepreneur, activist, founding CEO of CollegeSpring, co-creator of Liberation Ventures, and Senior Fellow at Prosperity Now, explains the "7 generations principle" of leaving a legacy, adopted from the indigenous peoples of North America.Hear Garrett's full interview in Episode 48 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Garrett Neiman, serial nonprofit entrepreneur, activist, founding CEO of CollegeSpring, co-creator of Liberation Ventures, and Senior Fellow at Prosperity Now, walks listeners through the issues of race and wealth discussed in his book, "RICH WHITE MEN: What It Takes to Uproot the Old Boys’ Club and Transform America", including the relationship between luck and power, "compounding unearned advantage", how America is a country of opposites on social issues, figuring out exactly how much is enough, and the "7 generations principle" of leaving a legacy.

Lisa Sakai, Financial Consultant and co-founder of One Vision Retirement, shares her two biggest tips to getting your future financials in order.Hear Lisa's full interview in Episode 47 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Lisa Sakai, Financial Consultant and co-founder of One Vision Retirement, talks about getting her start in Hollywood, how "Bucket List Acceleration" is bridging the present with the future, the one surprising group that often gets left behind in legacy planning, why it's hard for people to be HONEST about their goals, and why goals for yourself AREN'T selfish, one area where Gen Z is headed for disaster, the two biggest tips to getting your future financials in order, and digging so deep you can touch the bottom of the ocean.

Writer, director, producer, playwright, and author, George Stevens, Jr. talks about riding shotgun with his dad and an Oscar award, and getting a call from the President himself, John F. Kennedy.Hear George's full interview in Episode 46 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Writer, director, producer, playwright, and author, George Stevens, Jr. dives into 5 generations of Stevens in showbiz, going all the way back to the Civil War, talks about riding shotgun with an Oscar award, working for the Kennedy Administration, starting the AFI, tackling social justice issues in his work, the future of movies and the cinema viewing experience, shares stories with Edward Murrow, JFK, and President Obama, and reflects on leaving a legacy.

Let's Talk Legacy host Gary Michels talks about what REALLY drives the agents at Southwestern Legacy Insurance Group. Spoiler alert: it's NOT money.

Learn about the affordability and flexibility of mortgage protection coverage, a specialized insurance product which can make a huge difference in safeguarding your home and family.

Carnie Wilson, 1/3rd of the chart-topping trio Wilson Phillips and daughter of Beach Boys' legend Brian Wilson, talks about growing up in a true rock and roll household, parties and all, and the healing over the years within her family, and recounts early encounters with Keith Moon, Paul McCartney, and Shaun Cassidy.Hear Carnie's full interview in Episode 45 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Carnie Wilson, 1/3rd of the chart-topping trio Wilson Phillips and daughter of Beach Boys' legend Brian Wilson, talks about growing up in a true rock and roll household, parties and all, and the healing over the years within her family, encounters with Keith Moon, Paul McCartney, and Shaun Cassidy, a frank and interesting view on her 2 decades of sobriety, the "fourth member" of Wilson Phillips, playing the long game at getting her own cooking show, "Sounds Delicious", airing on AXS TV, and living life, and leaving a legacy, with no regrets.

Learn what makes this form of coverage uniquely different from other coverage, including the advantages, affordability, accessibility, and how it sidesteps a lot of the red tape that could be associated with other end-of-life care.

Humorist Rich Lippman, author of “Last Bucket List”, talks about why people resist making a will, and explains how fun calms fear and leads to creativity, which leads to meaning, which leads to love.Hear Rich's full interview in Episode 44 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Humorist Rich Lippman, author of “Last Bucket List”, talks about making wills and estate planning…get this…FUN.  He explains how fun calms fear and leads to creativity, which leads to meaning, which leads to love, and covers “missions of meaning”, “forever letters”, and living life with no regrets while passing along your legacy.

Tax-free retirement? Sound too good to be true? Not if you're smart about the way you use your life insurance policy. Tune in to find out how!

Learn about the hybrid life insurance / investment strategy that could both save you money month to month in the present, as well as put more reserves in your bank account for unexpected events, or to use up the road.

Nationally recognized speaker, author, and former NCAA head coach and championship player Matt Doherty talks about playing with “His Airness”, Michael Jordan, and the amazing work ethic behind greats like Barry Bonds and Jerry Rice.Hear Matt's full interview in Episode 43 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Nationally recognized speaker, author, and former NCAA head coach and championship player Matt Doherty talks about having your own personal Board of Directors, why business is a contact sport, defining culture in terms of donuts, using a healthy dose of tension, the 3 biggest things that impact your life trajectory, the 6 "Knows" of leadership, and playing with “His Airness”, Michael Jordan.

It's a fair question. Find out the ways that it might work to your advantage to buy while you're young, and the life events for which you may want to re-examine your coverage, or get coverage in the first place.

Brandon Steiner, Founder & President of The Steiner Agency, the nation’s premier independent athlete procurement source, as well as Collectible Xchange, talks about why there’s no such thing as a big game, and recalls the craziness of buying Yankee Stadium (yes, you read that right).Hear Brandon's full interview in Episode 42 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Brandon Steiner, Founder & President of The Steiner Agency, the nation’s premier independent athlete procurement source, as well as Collectible Xchange, talks about why it’s important to “wake up broke” and to dream big, sample small, and fail quick, lessons from Enterprise, why losing is a PART of winning and why there’s no such thing as a big game, explains helpful non-acceptance and RADICAL acceptance, taking action over anxiety, recalls the craziness of buying Yankee Stadium (yes, you read that right), and shares a few business secrets from dear old mom.

Learn what attributes and behaviors to look for when choosing an A+ insurance agent who will put YOUR needs first.

Dive into this highly adaptable and versatile coverage option, which includes cash value benefits, as well as an interest crediting rate, and is both life insurance AND investment.

Author, speaker, and Legacy Transformation Mentor Susan Brown talks about what exactly a Legacy Transformation Mentor is, the physiology of grief, explaining the Legacy Gamechanger Method, and the meaning of L.E.G.A.C.Y. Hear Susan's full interview in Episode 41 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Author, speaker, and Legacy Transformation Mentor Susan Brown talks about living homeless in her car and life lessons from time spent as a paramedic, to working as a director for the Red Cross on 9/11, the gateway between your conscious and subconscious mind and the physiology of vision, the "Big 3" you're conditioned not to talk about, to creating a blueprint for peace of mind and the meaning of L.E.G.A.C.Y. Plus, she shares a special freebie just for our listeners!

In this episode, we examine the unique features of whole life insurance, and how it can be a powerful tool for shaping your legacy.

Take a closer look at term life insurance, including the underlying mechanisms, when it's most useful, and how rates are determined.

Author, speaker, family business consultant and owner of Hubler for Business Families, Tom Hubler, addresses some of the most common conflicts that arise in family businesses, and how to manage them from the "H.E.A.R.T.".Hear Tom's full interview in Episode 40 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Author, speaker, family business consultant and owner of Hubler for Business Families, as well as a founding member and fellow of the Family Firm Institute, Tom Hubler, talks about the value of building emotional equity, balance, structure, and formality, how most family businesses don’t start off as family businesses, managing from the H.E.A.R.T., appreciation, recognition, and love, and figuring out who's the B.O.S.S.

Learn the differences between brokerage and captive life insurance agencies, what each of them represent, their respective pros and cons, and which one is right for you.

Find out WHO exactly needs life insurance, what all it can cover, and why it can benefit businesses as well as individuals, including some recent statistics and examples.

Clinical psychologist, author, and host of the Optimistic American podcast, Dr. Emily Bashah, explains why she's staying optimistic despite America giving in to "addictive ideologies", and talks about being aware of your own agency.Hear Dr. Bashah's full interview in Episode 39 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Clinical psychologist, author, and host of the Optimistic American podcast, Dr. Emily Bashah, shares the story of her parent's flee from Iraq under Saddam Hussein, explains why she's staying optimistic despite America giving in to "addictive ideologies", and talks about gratitude and resilience, reaching for purpose and meaning over happiness, the nature of free will, learning through discovery, being aware of your agency, and why strength + trauma = survivorship.

Learn about the 3 most common types of life insurance; term, whole life, and universal life insurance, and how each can help you shape your legacy by meeting different needs.

Author, healthcare consultant, and founding partner of BlueCloud Health, Steven Adjei, explains the 4 types of legacy you can leave, with examples from Jimmy Carter, Steve Jobs, Elizabeth Holmes, and Jeffrey Epstein.Hear Steven's full interview in Episode 38 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Author, healthcare consultant, and founding partner of BlueCloud Health, Steven Adjei, explains why Africa is the most entrepreneurial place on the planet, the traumatic medical episode that clarified his purpose in life, the 4 types of pain we face and 4 types of legacy you can leave, lessons from Jimmy Carter, Steve Jobs, Tim Cook, Elizabeth Holmes, and Jeffrey Epstein, the huge gap between the medical and business fields, turning down $30 million, why purpose is more about what you SHOULDN’T do than what you SHOULD do, and LIVING a legacy instead of LEAVING a legacy.

Three-time Olympic coach Sue Humphrey talks about working with legends like Wilt Chamberlain and Jackie Joyner-Kersee, including the funny way she finally tracked Jackie down.Hear Sue's full interview in Episode 37 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Three-time Olympic coach Sue Humphrey talks about how Title IX changed sports, the experience of being at the Olympic games, how coaches are chosen for the event, working with Wilt Chamberlain, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, and 1996 Olympic Gold Medalist Charles Austin, what it takes to succeed, and leaving a legacy on and off of the track.

James “Noah” Gebhardt, Founder and Principal CEO of MyArkit, an online digital archival company dedicated to preserving the legacy of loved ones and friends, explains how MyArkit got its start, and shares some of his favorite memories uploaded by customers.Hear James’ full interview in Episode 36 of Let’s Talk Legacy.

James “Noah” Gebhardt, Founder and Principal CEO of MyArkit, an online digital archival company dedicated to preserving the legacy of loved ones and friends, explains what makes MyArkit different from competitors like LegacyBox, how it adds context to content, keeps memories safe and secure long-term, shares a few stories that have stuck with him from customers, and the importance of leaving a digital legacy.

Entrepreneur, author, and speaker Jake Kelfer shares lessons from working with Kobe Bryant during his time at the Lakers, and his challenge to the NBA combine system.Hear Jake's full interview in Episode 35 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Entrepreneur, author, and speaker Jake Kelfer shares lessons from working with Kobe Bryant during his time at the Lakers, challenging the NBA combine system, and the joy in helping people tell their stories, doing something bigger than yourself, living a life you are proud of, and why you don’t have to be the best in the world; just be one or two steps ahead of the people you want to help.  Plus, listen to the end to hear how to get a free copy of Jake’s book!

Tom Ziglar, son of Zig Ziglar, as well as the CEO of Ziglar, Inc, shares his father's definition of success, and how to climb the 5 step ladder of survival, stability, success, significance, and legacy.Hear Tom's full interview in Episode 34 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Tom Ziglar is the son of author, salesman, and motivational speaker Zig Ziglar, as well as the CEO of Ziglar, Inc, and an author in his own right, covers legacy vs inheritance, “dream alignment”, identifying what you REALLY do, doing it all the way, and doing it with integrity, why YOUR value doesn’t lie in the value you produce, narcissism and social media, the definition of success and why it ISN’T the endgame, and climbing the 5 step ladder of survival, stability, success, significance, and legacy.

Zika Metaxa of the internationally-known Metaxa family spirits business talks about breaking generational cycles of mistakes, and how legacy doesn't have to mean tradition.Hear Zika's full interview in Episode 33 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Zika Metaxa, author and part of the internationally-known Metaxa family spirits business founded by her ancestors in 1888, talks about the unique challenges of a family business in a country where women are often overlooked, fighting the culture her family thrived in, "finding her own star", breaking generational cycles, and creating the one-of-a-kind drink that bears her name.

Tyler Summitt, son of legendary University of Tennessee women's coach Pat Summitt, talks about making winning an attitude, shares a lesson that basketball great Candace Parker will never forget, and explains what his mother's final hope was for her "Definite Dozen".Hear Tyler's full interview in Episode 32 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Tyler Summitt, son of legendary University of Tennessee women's coach Pat Summitt, talks about growing up with a group of 16 honorary big sisters, making winning an attitude, putting the team before yourself (even in the face of a life-changing diagnosis), and shares a lesson that basketball great Candace Parker will never forget, as well as why the Pat Summitt Leadership Group is the true carrier of his mother’s legacy.

Andrea Wilson Woods, author, speaker, CEO & Co-Founder of Cancer University, and President & Founder of Blue Faery: The Adrienne Wilson Liver Cancer Association, chats about losing the love of her life, and how it showed her how easy it is for things to fall through the cracks for those unwilling to be “annoyingly persistent”.Hear Andrea’s full interview in Episode 31 of Let’s Talk Legacy.

Andrea Wilson Woods, author, speaker, CEO & Co-Founder of Cancer University, and President & Founder of Blue Faery: The Adrienne Wilson Liver Cancer Association, chats about living her life backwards, losing her greatest love, why your life could depend on being a squeaky wheel, how success means eventually putting yourself out of business, and crafting her legacy by helping others realize their own.

George Foreman III, professional boxer, entrepreneur, author, and the founder and CEO of boxing training brands Craft Boxing Club and Mittwork, talks about how training with his father was like climbing Everest (and he still has the scars to prove it), from pulling Jeeps and digging holes, to running 10 miles in the wrong sized shoe, and getting his face in the mud...the champ runs a tough bootcamp.Hear George's full interview in Episode 30 of Let's Talk Legacy.

George Foreman III, professional boxer, entrepreneur, author, and the founder and CEO of boxing training brands Craft Boxing Club and Mittwork, talks about George "Mother Hen" Foreman Sr, how training with his father was like climbing Everest (and he still has the scars to prove it), the essential 12 fight laws which apply both in and out of the ring, returning to boxing at 40, the unique mystique of the heavyweight class, and the legacy-building power of storytelling.

Frank Milner, President of Tutor Doctor, which provides one-on-one tutoring services to students from first grade to college in over 500 territories across the globe, talks about the emerging education crisis worldwide, which has been made worse by the Covid pandemic, but started far before.Hear Frank's full interview in Episode 29 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Frank Milner, President of Tutor Doctor, which provides one-on-one tutoring services to students from first grade to college in over 500 territories across the globe, talks about immigrating at 12 years old, shares some of the universal challenges faced by education systems the world over, reflects on crisis management during the Covid pandemic, explains his company's drive to take up the social responsibility of tutoring, and leaving a legacy for the children of the world.

Sandeep Chennakeshu, a tech executive and author who served as the former Chief Technology Officer of Ericsson Mobile Phones and Sony Ericsson, as well as former President of BlackBerry, talks about leading the team that invented Bluetooth, and ALMOST inventing what we now know as the iPhone.Hear Sandeep's full interview in Episode 28 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Sandeep Chennakeshu, a tech executive and author who served as the former Chief Technology Officer of Ericsson Mobile Phones and Sony Ericsson, as well as former President of BlackBerry, talks about leading the team that invented Bluetooth, creating the modern smartphone all the way back in 2002, and what he considers his two greatest inventions (he has over 180 patents), as well as the importance of being sticky, why 2/3rds of companies fail, dreaming with conviction, getting medieval on business, and why teaching is his legacy.

Chuck Bongiovanni, CEO and Co-Founder of Majestic Residences Franchise System, a senior residential care home franchise, explains the difference between nursing homes, assisted living, independent living, memory care, and residential living, what he believes the future of caregiving may look like over the next 5 years.Hear Chuck's full interview in Episode 27 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Chuck Bongiovanni, CEO and Co-Founder of Majestic Residences Franchise System, a senior residential care home franchise, talks about how he merged real estate and social work, the difference between nursing homes, assisted living, independent living, memory care, and residential living, the impact that Covid had on elder care facilities, tending to "younger seniors", the Walmart metric for success, and his forecast for the future of caregiving.

Mariel Hemingway, actress, activist, author, and granddaughter of famed novelist Ernest Hemingway, talks about growing up Hemingway and realizing the gravity of her family name on a ski lift, and embracing the family name, as well as the specific stigmas, hardships, and destructive patterns that stemmed from generations of creative minds.Hear Mariel's full interview in Episode 26 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Mariel Hemingway, actress, activist, author, and a renowned health and wellness speaker & advocate, talks about growing up Hemingway and realizing the gravity of her family name on a ski lift, her concerns of reaching stardom at the age of 17, why self love isn't selfish, living with the "7 doctors", exposing the stigma around mental health, embracing her legacy, and leaving her own through the important work of the Mariel Hemingway Foundation.

Jeff Morander, ticketing executive with over 30 years of proven experience directing sales strategy across the NHL, NBA, WNBA, and the NFL, talks about the work ethic his immigrant ancestors instilled in him, and the legacy of being the stepping stone for others.Hear Jeff's full interview in Episode 25 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Jeff Morander, a ticketing executive with over 30 years of proven experience directing sales strategy across the NHL, NBA, WNBA, and the NFL, talks about playing a key role in the NHL Winter Classic and NHL All Star Games, the differences in working on both sides of the American/Canadian border, skill vs. will, and being the stepping stone for others.

Joe Phoenix, the co-founder and CEO of Givinga, a financial technology firm focused on redefining philanthropy through modern technology, explains the difference between donation and philanthropy, why philanthropy has a bit of an uppity reputation, and what some of the common roadblocks have been for people of ordinary income wanting to make charitable gifts.Hear Joe's full interview in Episode 24 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Joe Phoenix, the co-founder and CEO of Givinga, a financial technology firm focused on redefining philanthropy through modern technology, covers the changing definition of philanthropy, the culture-building strength of giving together, his 5 main rules to follow for building and managing teams, the leadership value of being the dumbest person in the room, not being afraid to set your "BHAG" (Big Hairy Audacious Goal), and creating "legacy impact".

Stephen Shortt, head of Successful Succession, former global chair of the Global Student Entrepreneur Awards, and a coach for accelerator companies scaling up their businesses, shares why business succession is a hero's journey and the analogue between Star Wars and the entrepreneurial world, as well as the 4 things that can happen to a company during generation turnover (stop, sell, survive, or scale).Hear Stephen's full interview in Episode 23 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Stephen Shortt, head of Successful Succession, former global chair of the Global Student Entrepreneur Awards, and a coach for accelerator companies scaling up their businesses, shares why business succession is a hero's journey and the analogue between Star Wars and the entrepreneurial world, plus a business succession lesson from Apple, the story of launching his first business at 9 years old, the karma of marketing, the 4 things that can happen to a company during generation turnover (stop, sell, survive, or scale), how to avoid being at your parent's throats, and why legacy isn't just what you're leaving FOR your kids, it's also what you're leaving IN them.

H.H. Leonards, author, Founder of the O Museum in The Mansion in Washington, DC, Co-Founder of the nonprofit organization 51StepsToFreedom.org, and a close personal friend of civil rights hero Rosa Parks, details why every history book is plain wrong about the Montgomery bus boycott, and Parks' role as a silent, uncredited founder of the National Organization for Women (NOW).Hear the full interview with H.H. Leonards in Episode 22 of Let's Talk Legacy.

H.H. Leonards, author, Founder of the O Museum in The Mansion in Washington, DC, Co-Founder of the nonprofit organization 51StepsToFreedom.org, and a close personal friend of civil rights hero Rosa Parks, details why every history book is plain wrong about the Montgomery bus boycott, how Parks' relation to race and civil rights was much more complex than black and white, the prophetic statement that Parks lived by which has now come true, and how "ego" is really an acronym, plus the way she converted a KKK member to a friend, her role as a silent, uncredited founder of the National Organization for Women (NOW), an unexpected connection to Prince and the Eagles, and the power of Park's continued legacy.

Chase Bridwell, insurance producer and Business Development Manager at Southwestern Insurance Group, talks about how insurance agents can be hugely integral to community impact, and how he treats clients like family to better understand their needs.Hear Chase’s full interview in Episode 21 of Let’s Talk Legacy.

Chase Bridwell, insurance producer and Business Development Manager at Southwestern Insurance Group, talks about going through "business bootcamp" with Southwestern Advantage, the lessons learned from watching his dad's business, how insurance agents can be hugely integral in the community, motivation from Will Smith, making insurance cool again with a young team, getting to know clients like family, and helping them build and protect their legacy.

Kristin Keffeler, Founder of Illumination360, Dean of Positive Psychology for the Purposeful Planning Institute, certified trainer, author, and co-founder of the Beneficiary Bootcamp, explains why impact = meaning + mattering, and outlines the 4 types of "clutter" commonly attached to legacy or wealth. Hear Kristin’s full interview in Episode 20 of Let’s Talk Legacy.

Kristin Keffeler, Founder of Illumination360, Dean of Positive Psychology for the Purposeful Planning Institute, certified trainer, author, and co-founder of the Beneficiary Bootcamp, explains the 3 steps to creating a tighter family and tighter vision, why impact = meaning + mattering and how no one has a neutral relationship with money, the 4 types of "clutter" attached to legacy and wealth, the 5 components to human flourishing, and the research in her new book "The Myth of the Silver Spoon" and the way that navigating family wealth can lead to an impactful legacy.Mentioned in the show:  Character Strength Assessment Test at ViaCharacter.org

Amanda Holmes, CEO of Chet Holmes International, shares the chaos of taking over the reins from her legendary father, writing a chapter over 100 times, making a new legacy for her company and family, and creating the encore her father never got to give.Hear Amanda's full interview in Episode 19 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Amanda Holmes, CEO of Chet Holmes International, shares the chaos of taking over the reins from her legendary father, the secrets to doubling sales and reducing stress, the "Dream 100" & the "Target 12", planting seeds vs closing deals, writing a chapter over 100 times, making a new legacy for her company and family, and creating the encore her father never got to give, plus makes an exclusive public announcement for the first time.

Emerald Garner, author, activist, and the youngest daughter of Eric Garner, talks about what her father was like on a personal level, shares a fond Christmas memory, and talks about the ongoing focus of We Can't Breathe, Inc, the nonprofit she founded and leads in her dad’s memory.Hear Emerald's full interview in Episode 18 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Emerald Garner, author, activist, and the youngest daughter of Eric Garner, talks about tangling with the legacy of her father, grieving publicly and with purpose, founding and leading the nonprofit We Can't Breathe, Inc in her dad’s memory, pushing forward for justice and compassion, and finding her own voice in the middle of a movement. 

Author, educator, speaker, and businessman Stedman Graham explains his 9-step process for success in life, and how following a formula is a true equalizer in achieving your goals, no matter your situation or circumstances. Hear Stedman's full interview in Episode 17 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Author, educator, speaker, and businessman Stedman Graham covers the principles of "Identity Leadership", not being defined by race or background, and controlling the influence you take in, as well as his relationship to Oprah, and how there's a formula and process to success, as well as to building a legacy.

"Performance Accelerator", former baseball star, competitive bull rider, and 3-tour combat veteran Wylie McGraw explains how growing up as the black sheep of his family taught him to expose personal blind spots in himself and others, and why most of our fears are the result of incomplete human evolution.Hear Wylie's full interview in Episode 16 of Let's Talk Legacy.

"Performance Accelerator", former baseball star, competitive bull rider, and 3-tour combat veteran Wylie McGraw covers his athletic career, courting danger on the back of a bull and in a war zone, eliminating blind spots in your life, pushing executives and A-listers to their limits, mastering peak performance instead of chasing it, and living the life, and leaving the legacy, you expect of yourself.

DC Glenn, one half of platinum-selling 90’s duo Tag Team, shares the story behind his entry into the music world, and the creation of one of rap’s most enduring hits, “Whoomp! (There It Is)”.Hear DC’s full interview in Episode 15 of Let’s Talk Legacy.

DC Glenn, one half of platinum-selling 90’s rap duo Tag Team, talks about planting seeds of opportunity, the difference between good people and GREAT people, teaching Mickey Mouse to rap and passing up a role in Blade, how to reverse engineer a business plan, why there’s treasure in trauma, and creating a legacy for the history books.

Kevin Wilson, chairman and CEO of Buzz Franchise Brands, explains the components necessary to craft and pitch the perfect business plan, and the importance of balancing realism with passion.Hear Kevin's full interview in episode 14 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Kevin Wilson, chairman and CEO of Buzz Franchise Brands, talks about capitalizing on the early 90s “bagel craze”, wandering into the airline industry and founding low-cost carrier Volaris, the components necessary to craft and pitch the perfect business plan, breaking the franchise world wide open, and leaving a legacy by enabling others to realize their dreams.

Hospitality veteran Gregg Herning explains how sometimes you need to get a little bit theatrical to put together a truly unforgettable experience, and why in hotels, things aren’t always what they seem.  It’s an interesting peek behind the curtain of the hospitality industry.Hear Gregg’s full interview in Episode 13 of Let’s Talk Legacy.

Gregg Herning has been a VP at some of the biggest properties in the world, from the Bellagio, to the MGM Grand and Graceland, over a 30-year plus hospitality career.  Gregg shares tips on how to shake things up when entering a new work environment, coordinating one-of-a-kind experiences for guests and clients, working with big teams, weathering COVID in a vulnerable industry, and how it all ties into leaving a legacy of satisfaction.   Bonus talk:  Gregg almost ended up as a rockstar!  How?  Click the play button to find out!

In this special segment for agents and insurance industry professionals, "Let's Talk Legacy" host Gary Michels shares some of his most proven advice for assisting with final expense coverage, from scheduling, to being professional, maintaining a servant mindset, and creating a vision for your business.

Dr. Tim Elmore, author, speaker, and founder/CEO of Growing Leaders, breaks down the 5 "M's" that define goal-setting throughout a lifetime (memories, mischief, majors, mastery, mentor), and shares 2 perspectives he wishes he had towards building explosive momentum in leadership roles.Hear Dr. Elmore's full interview in Episode 12 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Dr. Tim Elmore, author, speaker, and founder/CEO of Growing Leaders, speaks on the importance of crossing generations, from millennials to baby boomers, and their often unfair portrayal, his new book which addresses the paradoxes of leadership, the role of confrontation in growth, his 20 years with the legendary John Maxwell, the 5 "M's" that define goal-setting throughout a lifetime, and how his company Growing Leaders is dedicated to developing a new generation of leaders whose legacies will impact the community, country, and world.

International speaker, award-winning author, and expert on branding, innovation and design Soon Yu, explains why he keeps a scorecard of failures, and the awesome advice for winning over groups resistant to your ideas by giving everyone a stake in the authorship.Hear Soon’s full interview in Episode 11 of Let’s Talk Legacy.

International speaker, award-winning author, and expert on branding, innovation and design Soon Yu, explains how he’s been too early to the party on new technology quite a few times, why he keeps a scorecard of failures, and reveals the odd gratification of selling toilet bowl cleaner, how to BBF (Bounce Back Fast), the ways iconic brands turn their distinctions into a legacy that keeps working for them, and outlines the 7 virtues of good friction.

Erik Weir shares how, surprisingly, paying cash for a Mercedes ended up being one of the most depressing experiences of his life, and explains why gratitude and anxiety can't exist together.Hear Erik's full interview in Episode 10 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Erik Weir is a jack of many trades; speaker, author, and principal of WCM Global Wealth LLC, as well as a movie producer, investor and real estate developer. Erik recounts a traumatic but formative childhood accident, learning lessons in professional presentation from a lemonade stand, and explains giving yourself permission to dream, "wholesale versus retail" information, the 5 Fs (faith, family, fitness, finance, friends), plus why gratitude and anxiety can't coexist, and how gratitude is tied to legacy.

Nico Ali Walsh, professional boxer and grandson of Muhammad Ali, talks about making his professional debut in his grandfather's iconic Everlast shorts; something which happened much more by fate than by design, and explains how his boxing dreams LITERALLY came true.Hear Nico's full interview in Episode 9 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Nico Ali Walsh, professional boxer, grandson of Muhammad Ali and nephew of Laila Ali, talks about growing up Ali, making his pro debut in the GOAT's shorts, explains the mechanics and mindset of boxing matchups, the critical importance of momentum, how he's training with future champs, the pros and cons of carrying on a massive legacy, and how sometimes dreams LITERALLY come true.

Catherine Monson, CEO of Propelled Brands and Fastsigns International, and chair of the International Franchise Association, shares her experience filming a Top 5 episode of the "Undercover Boss" television series, and the grueling behind-the-scenes rigors of creating great reality TV.Hear Catherine’s full interview in Episode 8 of Let’s Talk Legacy.

Catherine Monson, CEO of Propelled Brands and Fastsigns International, and chair of the International Franchise Association, shares how overcoming an abusive relationship with her mother taught her to take responsibility for her own attitude, reflects on gathering lessons in positivity from her quadriplegic brother as well as ancient samurai, explains the democratic appeal of the franchise world and how she led the IFA through a pandemic, recounts her experience filming a Top 5 episode of "Undercover Boss", and talks about the 5 common characteristics of successful people, and making a difference in someone's life every single day.

Anthony O’Neal, #1 national bestselling author, speaker, and YouTube star, shares the faulty mindset that led him into homelessness, and how he worked his way out, including his somewhat humorous take on the moment of clarity that forced him to examine his lifestyle.Hear Anthony’s full interview on Episode 7 of Let’s Talk Legacy.

Anthony O’Neal, #1 national bestselling author, speaker, and YouTube star, chronicles his journey from homelessness to helper, applying the principles that lifted him up to lead others away from the mistakes that he made, and talks about finding success on YouTube and building a million-strong tribe, how Covid opened up opportunity, his wild reality TV experiment with “The Singles Mansion”, and encouraging singles and younger people to think about building a debt-free life and legacy.

Southwestern Legacy's Jacob Gerstenberg talks about a few of his most memorable clients, and tackles the paradox of why you'd never drive your car uninsured, but you'd live your LIFE uninsured.Hear Jacob's full interview in Episode 6 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Guest host Ben Majeske and Southwestern Legacy's Jacob Gerstenberg talks about the independence of being a Legacy broker, the feeling of being on the ground floor of something huge, the difference between selling books and selling life-changing insurance, making explosive impact, finishing strong, and leaving a "last love letter" for your family.

Superstar sports agent Leigh Steinberg recounts being an advisor on the hit film "Jerry Maguire", based on his life, and shares his #1 most important negotiation tactic.Hear Leigh's full interview in Episode 5 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Leigh Steinberg is THE sports agent, who over 4 decades has represented over 300 professional athletes in football, baseball, basketball, boxing, and Olympic sports. He has represented the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL draft a record eight times, as well as 64 other first round draft picks in the NFL, and 12 future Pro Football Hall of Famers. Steinberg talks about serving as the real-life inspiration for Tom Cruise's character in the film "Jerry Maguire", meeting Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak in college, helping his clients leave a legacy on and off the field, and how to "win with integrity", and get what you want without selling your soul.

Bestselling author and thought leader Stephen M. R. Covey talks about carrying on the legacy of his father, Stephen R. Covey, author of "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People". This except comes from Stephen's interview in Episodes 379 and 380 of The Action Catalyst podcast, part of the Southwestern Family of Podcasts.

Stephanie Glanzer shares her experience as a classical ballet dancer, how she seeks to empower members of the MGM team, and how a high-level woman navigates a male-dominated industry.Hear Stephanie's full interview in Episode 4 of Let's Talk Legacy.

Stephanie Glanzer, Chief Sales Officer of all properties for MGM Resorts, the largest entertainment/casino hotel company in the world, shares her beginnings in classical ballet, management at a huge scale, empowering employees, bouncing back after COVID, being a high-level woman in a male-dominated industry, living to the fullest, and integrating, not balancing, work and life.This episode is presented by Southwestern Legacy Insurance Group.

MLB great Bill "Mad Dog" Madlock shares what he hopes he leaves as his legacy on and off of the field, and how Southwestern Legacy Insurance Group helped bring him peace of mind.Hear Bill's full interview in Episode 3 of Let's Talk Legacy.

In a 15-season career as a third baseman for six MLB teams, Bill Madlock, nicknamed "Mad Dog", was a three-time All-Star, an All-Star Game MVP, a four-time National League batting champion, and a World Series winner. Madlock talks about his biggest accomplishments on the field, lessons learned from coaching the game, teaching a new generation of players, what he hopes his legacy is, and how Southwestern Legacy Insurance Group has helped provide security to his family.This episode is presented by Southwestern Legacy Insurance Group.

Nick Ayala talks about the motivational value behind fear, and how the person who helps the most people wins, always, in finance, emotional return, faith, and more.Hear Nick’s full interview in Episode 2 of Let’s Talk Legacy.

Nick Ayala covers his career as a professional golfer, what its like to serve over 40,000 Americans, setting up others for immediate success, learning to love fear and use it as a motivator, staying disciplined, what “legacy” means to him, and why “the person who helps the most people, wins”.

Join us as we officially launch "Let's Talk Legacy", presented by Southwestern Legacy Insurance Group! In this roundtable discussion, we introduce you to the new podcast's host, Gary Michels, along with Ben Majeske, and hear about how the show will tackle questions like what does it mean to build and maintain a legacy, what tools and resources are available to help, and how to grow today, for a better tomorrow.Learn more at LetsTalkLegacyPod.com

Get to know Gary Michels, Founding Partner of Southwestern Legacy Insurance Group, speaker, and host of Let's Talk Legacy...

What does it mean to build and maintain a legacy, either in business, or for your loved ones? What tools and resources are available to help? Join the discussion as our stable of experts, and real listeners just like you, tackle the answers to these questions, and learn how to grow today, for a better tomorrow.