Whiskey and Risk

EP 22 - Behind the Ballpark: How Michael Larson Turns Schaumburg Boomers Baseball into a Full-On Experience

In this episode, we sit down with Michael Larson, General Manager of the Schaumburg Boomers, who pulls back the curtain on what it takes to turn a minor league ballpark into a must-visit experience. From the fan-first atmosphere to the creative touches that keep people coming back, Michael shares how the Boomers have become more than just a baseball team, they’re a full-blown entertainment brand.
With thousands of fans walking through the gates each year, plus everything from bounce houses and fireworks to live entertainment and on-field promotions, managing risk is no small feat. The general liability coverage behind a professional baseball team is far more complex than your average business. As an entertainment venue, the Boomers face a unique set of exposures, and ensuring they’re properly protected is just as critical as delivering a great game-day experience.
Michael also offers straight-up, no-fluff advice for anyone looking to break into sports management: start at the bottom, say yes to everything, and learn what captures attention.

EP. 21 - The Risk & Reward of Running a Design-Build Firm with Conrad Szajna

On this episode of Whiskey & Risk, we sit down with Conrad Szajna, Founder of Formed Space, a boutique design-build firm in Chicago's Ravenswood neighborhood. With over a decade of experience in architecture and construction, Conrad has worked on a range of innovative projects, from modern school designs to high-end residential spaces. He shares how the industry has evolved over the past 10 years, from shifting trends in financing and banking to changes in subcontractor relationships and evolving customer expectations.

EP.20 - Winning Strategies for Insurance Agencies with Brent Kelly

On this episode of Whiskey & Risk, we sit down with Brent, President of Sitkins Group, to discuss the biggest challenges facing independent agencies and how Sitkins helps them thrive. Brent shares his leadership journey, the power of producer specialization, and what sets their training apart. Plus, he gives us a glimpse into the future of Sitkins Group. If you're in the industry, you won’t want to miss this one!

EP.19 - Purpose-Driven Success with Isaac Sandoval

In this episode, we sit down with Isaac Sandoval, a visionary entrepreneur who built a thriving career in real estate before founding At Home Advocacy, a company dedicated to supporting families of individuals with disabilities. Discover how Isaac scaled his business, transformed countless lives, and achieved the remarkable milestone of selling his company and retiring at the age of 39. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about passion, purpose, and the power of entrepreneurship to create lasting change.

EP.18 - Arjun Rishi’s AI Solution for the Future of Physical Therapy

In this episode of Whiskey & Risk, hosts Max Katzbeck and Jackson Doyle from J. Krug sit down with Arjun Rishi, CEO and Founder of Virdio Health, to explore how AI is transforming physical therapy. Arjun shares his journey as a seasoned entrepreneur with over 30 years in software technology and discusses the inspiration behind Virdio Health—an AI-driven, at-home physical therapy platform tackling challenges like patient compliance, cost, and accessibility. Together, we delve into the risks of launching a health-tech startup in a $24+ billion market, how AI enhances patient engagement and outcomes while maintaining safety, and the importance of building trust through strong data and outcomes. Arjun also offers insights on risk management, scaling a business, and navigating the insurance landscape, all while revolutionizing the future of physical therapy and healthcare.

EP.17 - Interns, Insights and Whistlepig

Join Jackson and Max as they sit down with the J. Krug interns, Jack Behling and Ben Fejer, over a glass of Whistlepig. In this candid conversation, the group discusses what initially drew the interns to J. Krug and their aspirations as they approach graduation. With both leaning toward careers as producers, Max shares his own journey about how he fell into the industry and the joy that he finds in building meaningful relationships.
Tune in for an insightful discussion on mentorship, career paths, and the challenges of navigating hard markets.

Whiskey & Risk Episode 16 Ft Nick Bonifas

Join hosts Max and Jackson as they sit down with Nick Bonifas, EVP and COO of Alarm Detection Systems (ADS). Based in Aurora, IL, ADS has safeguarded homes and business across Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Colorado since 1968.
 
In his episode, Nick shares ADS’s journey from a one-man operation to a 300+ employee powerhouse, offering top-notch alarm installation and in-house monitoring services. Discover how ADS achieved remarkable growth through both organic expansion and strategic acquisition over its 65+ years.
 
Delve into the future of alarm monitoring and learn how Nick’s background as an attorney influenced his rise from the ADS warehouse to COO. Pour yourself a glass of Whistle Pig and join us for an insightful conversation about ADS’s success and vision driving its future.
 
‘Intro and Outro music: VYI Music – Whiskey’

Whiskey & Risk - Episode 15 w/ Titan Solar's Gabrielle Marucha

Max and Jackson are joined by the Co-COO of Titan Solar Power Gabrielle Marucha. Headquartered in Phoenix, AZ with a presence across the United States, Titan Solar Power is the nation’s leading Rooftop Solar Contractor.
 
Tune in as the Whiskey & Risk team explore with Gabrielle what it takes to oversee a company of over 1,000+ employees and discuss the importance of Risk Management and Employee Benefits during times of rapid growth and expansion.
 
‘Intro and Outro music: VYI Music – Whiskey’

Whiskey & Risk EP 14 - Talking all things HR Ft. Holly Schulz

Max Katzbeck & Jackson Doyle recorded the latest episode of Whiskey and Risk talking all things HR with Holly Schulz!!  They talk Recruiting, Workers Compensation, Employee Benefits and other ways to help your HR. Department.  
 
‘Intro and Outro music: VYI Music – Whiskey’

Episode 13 - Kicking off 2024 with J. Krug's Jacob Behrendt

Join Max and Jackson as they welcome Jacob Behrendt to the podcast to kick off 2024.  
 
‘Intro and Outro music: VYI Music – Whiskey’