Best @ The Very Center Studios Podcasts (2024)

1
Financial Expertise and Client-Centered Advising with Matt Andersen, CEO of Westlake Securities 44:13

16d ago44:13

44:13

Matt Andersen, CEO of Westlake Securities, shares his expertise in finance and mergers and acquisitions. He discusses the tailored approach his company takes when advising different-sized companies, overlaying past experiences with success, and treating clients the way they would want to be treated. He also talks about the challenges and opportunit…

1
S1 E 76 SAMANTHA HOCHMANN - Deep Inside the Tinker Swiss Cottage 57:45

23d ago57:45

57:45

Tim Larson and Samantha Hochmann had known each other for a grand total of sixty seconds, but, as it turns out, their common ground stories stretched for centuries. Robert Tinker was a generous man to the city of Rockford, Illinois. Mary and Jessie followed suit in so many ways. Learn how and enjoy this historical conversation surrounding the mansi…

1
S1 E75 KATHI KRESOL - Author of books and articles about Rockford, Illinois history 1:33:49

28d ago1:33:49

1:33:49

Kathi Kresol is the author of Murder & Mayhem in Rockford, Illinois and Haunted Rockford. Tim Larson had only known Kathi for ten minutes and decided to record this episode on 815 Day (August 15, 2024) at the Edgebrook Shopping Center. Since Kathi is a thorough researcher and Tim is a Rockford native, everyone thought it was a safe bet that these t…

1
The Future of AI in Education and Search Engines with Erik Qualman 37:28

1M ago37:28

37:28

Erik Qualman, a bestselling author and keynote speaker, discusses his background and the impact of socialnomics and AI on various industries. He shares the story behind Equalman, his iconic green glasses, and the importance of embracing uniqueness. Qualman explains the concept of "socialnomics" and how it has been used by organizations like NASA an…

1
Discovering Dreams: The Journey of Willow Creek Farm Center 32:55

2M ago32:55

32:55

In this inspiring episode, we dive into the heartwarming story behind Willow Creek Farm Center, a stunning wedding and event venue with a unique twist. Join us as we sit down with Ka Lee, co-owner of the family-ran venue and a dedicated professional in the medical industry. Ka shares the serendipitous moment that led to the discovery of Willow Cree…

1
S1 E74 2024 INSPIRATIONAL COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS Red Carpet Interviews 1:23:25

2M ago1:23:25

1:23:25

Steve Bridgmon invited Tim Larson to be part of the Media Team at the Inspirational Country Music Awards at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Tennessee. Tim talked to sixty six people in a little less than two hours just before they stepped onto the red carpet. Recorded May 29, 2024.By Tim Larson

1
Success Through Dedication: The Helix Sports Journey 46:22

3M ago46:22

46:22

Dr. Jimmy Rowland and Dr. Jordan Tittle, co-owners of Helix Physical Therapy and Chiropractic, share their journey of starting their own business in Austin, Texas. They met while working at a training facility and realized the need for an interdisciplinary approach to sports medicine. They decided to open their own practice in the West Austin area,…

1
S1 E73 PHIL STILLERMAN - The King of Birthday Adventures! 1:40:54

3M ago1:40:54

1:40:54

Phil's wife Della does extensive research to find just the right adventure for his birthday gifts. From flyer a glider to driving an Indy 500 car. Learn all about the fun details and how Phil ended up in a film with Matt Damon. Recorded in Indianapolis, Indiana May 31, 2024.By Tim Larson

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S1 E72 CICADAS - The show with a million guests! 12:05

3M ago12:05

12:05

This episode was recorded in Tim Larson's backyard as he was surrounded by a countless number of cicadas.By Tim Larson

1
S1 E71 SPIFF CARNER - Former WZOK Morning Host with Randy Cook & WROK/WZOK Continuity Director 1:02:42

3M ago1:02:42

1:02:42

Rick "Spiff" Carner is joined by John Strandin along with Tim Larson. Spiff was the director of the commercial writing department and co-host of the WZOK morning show with Randy Cook. Spiff's time with Nolte Communications in Rockford, Illinois was 1981-1986. John was a member of the award winning news department for twenty four years. Recorded in …

1
S1 E70 LOUISE MANDRELL - Country music artist and television personality 1:24:58

3M ago1:24:58

1:24:58

Tim Larson and Louise Mandrell first met on her tour bus at a northern Illinois county fair in 1979. They visited again in backstage dressing rooms in 1980 and 1981 before Louise and her sisters, Barbara and Irlene, kicked off their successful variety television show on NBC. Louise and Tim literally bumped into each other backstage at the Grand Ole…

1
S1 E68 TONY WOLFE - East Tennessee stories from a first cousin 44:19

3M ago44:19

44:19

Tony Wolfe and Tim Larson are first cousins. We can ride around the mountains of east Tennessee in a truck and never have the same conversation twice. Recorded in Tony's kitchen on Memorial Day, May 27, 2024.By Tim Larson

1
S1 E69 BILL CODY - Morning man for 30 years on WSM radio in Nashville, Tennessee 55:53

3M ago55:53

55:53

Bill Cody and Tim Larson had only talked briefly on the phone six months prior to sitting down in the showcase studio of WSM Radio inside the Opryland Hotel. Their careers oddly have run parallel so the stories were very easy. Even if you're not a huge country music fan, you are sure to enjoy this conversation. Recorded May 28, 2024.…

1
S1 E67 TIM LARSON - Radio in Charleston, West Virginia 40 years ago! 51:33

3M ago51:33

51:33

Tim decided to set up his equipment on the shores of the Kanawha River in Charleston, West Virginia on the Friday before Memorial Day Weekend 2024. The state capital was over his shoulder as the radio stories from forty years ago poured out. Tim worked at WKAZ/WQBE and WVSR radio stations from 1982-1984 when he was in his early twenties. Recorded M…

1
The Building Blocks of Wisdom with Michael Krajicek 34:14

4M ago34:14

34:14

Michael Krajicek, founder and CEO of Atreyu Running Company, shares his insights on achieving extraordinary results in business and life. He discusses the values of curiosity, simplicity, and hard work that shape his approach to business. Michael also talks about the inception of Atreyu and the importance of community engagement in the Austin runni…

1
A Doctor in Natural Healing - For the Mind, Body, and Soul 40:43

4M ago40:43

40:43

Over 10+ years of education and practice, Dr. Amy Lor shares her story about how she got started in natural healing and all the various services she provides. From facial rejuvenation to acupuncture, Chinese medicine and light therapy, Dr. Amy Lor of Catawba Natural Healing is a true specialist in what she does. Catawba Natural Healing Website: htt…

1
A Hobby Turned Mobile - Premium Auto Detailing Services 27:59

5M ago27:59

27:59

The story of all entrepreneurs have similar drives and Joel shares that same fire. From just a hobby, it turned into a fully loaded van with all the bells and whistles needed to get those dirty and messy stains out of your car including the exterior. Professional, high quality, full auto detailing! Join us as Joel Lo, with Lo Detailing, shares with…

1
Changing the Narrative Around Hospice Care for Children with Melissa Keller 29:09

5M ago29:09

29:09

Melissa Keller is the founder of the Abigail E. Keller Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports terminally ill or medically complex children and their families. The foundation's mission is to change the narrative around hospice care for children and help families cherish their time with their loved ones. Melissa shares her personal journ…

1
Episode #19: From a $333 Paycheck to Center Stage: A Journey to Broadway, the Cleveland Cavaliers, and Emceeing for Lewis Howes: with Elec Simon 1:09:31

5M ago1:09:31

1:09:31

My guest today is Elec Simon. Elec refers to himself as a “host-tainer” - he’s an event emcee and percussionist based in Orlando, FL, combining his passion for rhythm and entertainment. Originally from Ohio, Elec has performed Stomp on Broadway, was a Cleveland Cavaliers entertainer, and has emceed for the likes of Lewis Howes. Elec’s journey in th…

1
A Super Natural Connection - Tarot Reader and Medium 37:24

5M ago37:24

37:24

Some people are gifted with abilities out of this world, and sometimes it's unexplainable. Join us in this episode where we dive deeper into what Linda does and how she came about her abilities. Sometimes you just have to trust that thing inside you. Linda's Spiritual Corner Website: https://llee1993.wixsite.com/spirituallyauthentic Facebook: https…

1
S1 E66 RON ROMERO & DEBYJO ERICKSEN - Illinois Rock & Roll Museum and Hall of Fame 51:23

6M ago51:23

51:23

The Illinois Rock & Roll Museum and Hall of Fame sits on Route 66 in Joliet, Illinois! Ron Romero and Debyjo Ericksen are the amazing organizers of this magical project. Hear the stories surrounding the inductees, collectibles, history and community involvement. It's a true testament to the meaning of volunteerism, philanthropy, passion, and the de…

1
Dropping Finance for Dance - Dance and Fitness Studio 31:53

6M ago31:53

31:53

With a background in finance and the drive to create something amazing regardless of financial standing, Maui pursues a very different path than she imagined. Join me as we listen to her story and discover why she made the shift that brings together a small, but bustling, dance and fitness community in the heart of Asheville, North Carolina. "There…

1
Investing in Oneself with Chris Ragland, CEO of Ragland Capital 33:43

6M ago33:43

33:43

Jeff interviews Chris Ragland, the founder and CEO of Ragland Capital. They discuss Chris's entrepreneurial journey, including his ventures in real estate, private credit, hospitality, and technology. Chris shares his experiences in expanding his business to Jackson, Mississippi, and Mexico City. They also talk about the challenges in today's inves…

1
S1 E65 TIM LARSON - The Story of Arthur and Sanford 7:59

6M ago7:59

7:59

This story aired on WLUV radio in Rockford/Loves Park, Illinois by your podcast host Tim Larson on March 31, 2021. It was written in a Paul Harvey "Rest of the Story" format.By Tim Larson

1
Episode #18: Life of the Party - How Your Past Shapes You (and Doesn't Define You) 1:10:16

6M ago1:10:16

1:10:16

On this solo podcast, I’m sharing some stories and moments from my life before I got sober, my “life of the party/party animal/rock star era.” Whilst most people know me now as a pretty chill sober dude that does a bunch of yoga and meditates, I used to be a MASSIVE partier and I’ve got a lot of wild stories. Some of these stories might strike you …

1
Don't Wait Until It's Too Late - Life Insurance and Financial Services 21:13

6M ago21:13

21:13

With 10+ years in the life insurance and finance industry, Cheenou Yang comes to us with knowledge and the goal to help. Everyone is in a different stage of life and are headed towards different goals, which is why he takes the time to know you to understand what works best for you right now. Join me as we dive into what Cheenou does as a life insu…

1
S1 E64 EMANUEL LARSON - The Cremation of Sam McGee by Robert Service 12:37

6M ago12:37

12:37

Tim Larson's grandfather could recite Robert Service's The Cremation of Sam McGee by memory until the day before he died at the age of ninety six. Emanuel Larson's goal was to verbally paint within your mind with the poetry he spoke. Recorded in Rockford, Illinois June 6, 1979.By Tim Larson

1
S1 E63 RACHEL DANIEL - Professional Alaskan Tour Guide 21:04

6M ago21:04

21:04

My other stories of the tour of Alaska with Rachel Daniel will be told a hundred more times, but this one of hers is a real gem. More than fourteen people should hear her recollection of her first moose hunt. Recorded on a small shuttle bus somewhere in Alaska in September of 2021.By Tim Larson

1
Building From The Ground Up with Structural Engineering Services 18:24

6M ago18:24

18:24

A hungry and rising entrepreneur dedicated to building his future and changing the paradigm of first generation Hmong Americans, Jim Lee comes to us with deep passion to create financial and humble wealth with hands already in multiple business ventures. Join us as we hear more about what he's doing, what is structural engineering, and how his serv…

1
S1 E62 - LARRY KANFER - Professional Photographer and Author 1:23:21

6M ago1:23:21

1:23:21

Larry Kanfer and his wife Alaina were connected to Tim Larson in 2009 through the Aldeen Golf Club barn renovation. Tim's grandfather Emanuel Larson built the barn in 1928 when the property was a dairy farm. The Kanfers were working on their book Barns of Illinois. The two projects intersected and they have been friends since. Recorded March 12, 20…

1
Episode #17: From Newbie Yoga Teacher to Yoga Studio Owner with Rachel Brooks 1:04:35

7M ago1:04:35

1:04:35

Rachel Brooks is the owner and an instructor at Seeking Space Yoga and Yin Yoga Space in Portland, OR. A Portland-native, Rachel opened Seeking Space Yoga in 2017 as a first time business owner and brand new yoga teacher! She continued to work her “day job” at a mortgage company and bartend at night whilst also running and teaching at the yoga stud…

1
Episode #16: From performing for a crowd of 2 to opening for the Boss with Frank Turner 1:00:12

7M ago1:00:12

1:00:12

Frank Turner is an English punk and folk singer-songwriter. He began his career as the vocalist of post-hardcore band Million Dead, then embarked upon an acoustic-based solo career following the band's split in 2005. He’s been super successful as a solo musician, releasing nine solo studio albums to date, with his most recent studio album, FTHC, re…

1
S1 E61 STEVE BRIDGMON - Inspirational Country Singer/ Songwriter 1:25:22

8M ago1:25:22

1:25:22

Steve Bridgmon and Tim Larson met on the on the front steps of the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Tennessee because of Steve's bowtie tattoo. We were part of the media frenzy and red carpet call of the Josie Awards nominees. They kept in touch and decided to sit down for a lengthy talk on a very rainy day just north of Music City USA. Recorded …

1
S1 E59 RIK ANTHONY - Host of Someone You Should Know Podcast 1:17:31

8M ago1:17:31

1:17:31

Rik and Tim decided to "double dip" this episode by uploading the same show on both Storytellers Studio and Some You Should Know podcasts. We meet at Maxim's Diner in Merrillville, Indiana on January 23, 2024 during a day filled with freezing rain driving. These two guys had only known each other for about fifteen minutes after meeting at the Museu…

1
S1 E60 ROYCE DeGRIE & BRITT CHAMBERS - Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum 1:20:49

8M ago1:20:49

1:20:49

Your host Tim Larson stumbled upon this museum while on a segue tour in Nashville, Tennessee sometime in October 2023. He kept it on his radar for a return trip. After having a three minute conversation with Royce, Tim scheduled a sit down. You will learn a ton! Bring a notebook and pen to this episode. Recorded in the Board Room of the Musicians H…

1
Episode #15: On the Inside: creative connection for incarcerated women with Nikki Weaver 1:10:36

8M ago1:10:36

1:10:36

Nikki Weaver is an actress, a yoga teacher, a trained massage therapist, and an art therapist. She leveraged her diverse skill to co-found the Portland Playhouse and she now leads On The Inside, a non-profit supporting incarcerated women through creative connection. On the Inside is currently operating in prisons in Oregon, Nebraska, Wyoming, Misso…

1
S1 E58 WILLIE PARHAM - A Friend of 54 years! 1:37:27

8M ago1:37:27

1:37:27

Your podcast host, Tim Larson, and Willie Parham have been friends since fifth grade in 1970. Learn how Willie has put his positive attitude to work and lived life to its fullest after his accident in 1987. He is the poster boy for "genuine."By Tim Larson

1
S1 E57 HEIDI OGNIBENE - Rock River Valley Blood Center 47:23

9M ago47:23

47:23

Tim Larson and Heidi Ognibene have known each other since 1988. Their lives have crossed paths eight ways to Sunday. On this episode, you'll learn all about donated blood in an entertaining conversation among old friends. Recorded at RRVBC's founding location on 6th Street in Rockford, Illinois on December 18, 2023.…

1
Building an Icon: The Journey of Kerbey Lane Cafe with Mason and Christina Ayer 33:18

10M ago33:18

33:18

Mason, CEO and President, and Christina, Controller and CFO of Kerbey Lane Cafe, join the podcast to discuss their journey of owning and operating Kerbey Lane Cafe. The cafe, which started in 1980, has grown into an iconic Austin business known for caring service, wholesome food at reasonable prices, and active community involvement. Together, they…

1
S1 E56 J.R. SULLIVAN - New American Theater 44:47

10M ago44:47

44:47

Tim Larson has known J.R. Sullivan since the early eighties. Tim on WROK radio and J.R. at New American Theater in Rockford, Illinois. Their stories are many and far reaching including the explosion of the Space Shuttle Challenger in January of 1986. Recorded backstage at the now Nordlof Center December 6, 2023.…

1
Episode #14: From a 1.8 GPA, self-sabotage and hitting rock bottom to a dream life with Zach Azar, RN 45:36

10M ago45:36

45:36

My guest on today's episode is my dear friend and my housemate, Zacharia Azar. Zach was a paramedic and professional firefighter in New Mexico. He owed his own home and had 2 cars. He had a great life! But then he failed a drug test, was fired from his dream job, and his life spiralled downwards for a number of years. Learn how Zach picked himself …

1
S1 E55 ABBIE THOMAS - Josie Music Award Female Multi-Genre Artist of the Year 2023 1:12:27

11M ago1:12:27

1:12:27

Abbie Thomas and Tim Larson had only known each other for exactly two weeks when they sat down for some biscuits and gravy...again! It's catch up time at the Goshen Brewing Company in Indiana. Recorded on a bright Sunday morning in Indiana on November 5, 2023.By Tim Larson

1
Sustainable Living and Storytelling with shār snacks' Lyn Graft 36:23

11M ago36:23

36:23

Today, we're thrilled to have Lyn Graft as our guest. Lyn is the chief story officer at Shared, the founder of Storytelling for Entrepreneurs, and the author of the best-selling book "Start with the Story: The Entrepreneur's Guide to Using Story to Grow Your Business." Over the last 18 years, Lynn has filmed and shared the stories of over 1000 entr…

1
S1 E54 BILL TAYLOR - Former WCFL & KHJ Radio Announcer 1:22:44

11M ago1:22:44

1:22:44

Legendary Chicago radio announcer Bill Taylor and host Tim Larson met in August of 2022 at an impromptu dinner after the Rock Radio Revisited event in near Chicago, Illinois. From there, it was many more radio stories at a birthday party in Michigan. Our third visit is this conversation at Frankie's Deli in Oak Brook Terrace, Illinois. Recorded Oct…

1
S1 E53 JEFF SWANBERG of the Stone Front band and the Garwood mansion 55:51

11M ago55:51

55:51

Jeff Swanberg has led an interesting life. From Paul Newman to Jimi Hendrix and everything in between. Tim Larson and Jeff have known each other for well over twenty five years on a business level. Learn the personal sides of what interests them and how those topics intersect. Recorded in Rockford, Illinois at Edgebrook on October 17, 2023.…

1
Episode #13: Holding Grudges - Why It Hurts and How to Let Them Go 1:14:42

11M ago1:14:42

1:14:42

This episode is another solo episode. I wish I could say that I haven’t struggled with holding grudges in the past, but I have! There was a time in my life not too terribly long ago that I held a HUGE grudge. This grudge had a large and shitty ripple effect on my life and on a lot of people that I love... Dive into this episode to hear more about t…

1
S1 E52 JONELLE & TERRY CARTER - River Road Trio 1:30:38

12M ago1:30:38

1:30:38

Tim Larson met Terry and Jonelle Carter during their performance at Edgebrook's Music on the Mall 2023. They hit it off immediately and got to know each other only in fifteen second spurts. During this episode they dug deep on a variety of topics. Three of their songs are included in this show. Recorded in Rockford, Illinois on October 4, 2023.…

1
S1 E50 JOHN LANDECKER SHOW on WGN radio with Tim Larson - 8 pm Hour 43:35

12M ago43:35

43:35

In hour two, John Landecker and Tim Larson are joined by Sam Panayotovich of FOX Sports Network for football picks and Marnie Shure from Takeout Magazine for all things new in the food world. Recorded in Studio A at WGN radio in Chicago, Illinois on September 20, 2023.By Tim Larson

1
S1 E51 JOHN LANDECKER SHOW on WGN radio with Tim Larson - 9pm Hour 43:58

12M ago43:58

43:58

This is hour number three from Tim Larson's co-hosting opportunity with John Landecker on WGN radio in Chicago, Illinois. You'll hear plenty of late-breaking stories in the Sunshine, Lollipop and Rainbow Newscast...where nothing bad ever happens! Recorded September 20, 2023.By Tim Larson

1
Leveraging Community Resources for Small Business Success with Larissa Davila 27:47

12M ago27:47

27:47

EGBI's mission revolves around nurturing emerging and existing businesses, particularly those led by historically economically disadvantaged individuals in the Greater Austin region. Larissa Davila delves into her professional journey, the importance of community engagement, and the unique facets of EGBI that set it apart in the world of business d…

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@ The Very Center Studios Podcasts

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