If you are not careful and you let yourself be captured by the news and all the noise, it can confuse you into believing that there is more wrong in our society than right with it, that there are more selfish people than selfless people. It is easy to fall into this trap, because that’s how traps work, they are designed to bring you in and then keep you there. The antidote to this comes when you realize that world isn’t full of traps, it’s full of world, it’s full of goodness, a goodness tha ...
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Jack Zimmerman Mike Mclaughlin Jake Palmer Podcasts
Dr. Staci Born — Breaking Down Barriers in Therapy Dr. Staci Born joins Strength From Service to talk about real-world therapy—what works, what doesn’t, and how to actually help people. She’s the founder of Blue Couch, a therapy practice based in Mankato, Minnesota, and brings years of experience helping individuals navigate trauma, relationships, …
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Navy veteran Rick Martagon joins Jack, Jake, and Mike on Strength From Service to share his journey from military service to his mission today: helping veterans and civilians alike explore the trades through Building Strong Communities, a nonprofit that partners with all the union trades in the area. Rick explains how programs like Helmets to Hardh…
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Tim Murray is back on Strength From Service—and if you haven’t heard his first episode, go back and give it a listen before diving into this one. In today’s update, Tim shares powerful progress on the Bravo Zulu House, a project that’s transforming the lives of veterans in need. From the mission to the momentum, this episode is all about what can h…
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In this episode of Strength From Service, we sit down with Marine veteran George Blais to hear his story—from growing up in small-town Minnesota to serving with 1st Marines and carrying forward a lifelong commitment to leadership and service. George opens up about what the Marine Corps taught him, the importance of mentorship, and how he continues …
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Dr. Dale Schmoll—known simply as “Doc”—joins us to share his journey from small-town Minnesota to the Army and eventually into chiropractic care. A passionate advocate for veterans, Doc gives insight into holistic medicine, healing beyond the physical, and why he continues to give back. Great conversation, great perspective. Check out the link we t…
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In this episode of Strength From Service, pro bass fisherman Seth Feider sits down with Jack and Jake to talk about where it all began—chasing fish on Minnesota lakes, turning pro, and what life is really like on tour. Seth shares stories from the grind, opens up about what it takes to stay sharp in a competitive sport, and highlights the charity w…
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In this episode of Strength From Service, we sit down with Sam Gore—a man whose life is built on service. Sam shares what it was like growing up in small-town Minnesota, the decision to leave home for the military, and the path that led him to becoming a volunteer firefighter today. His story is a reminder that you don’t need fame or rank to make a…
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In this episode of Service Announcement, two combat vets and one radio guy sit down, crack a few theories open, and ask the question we all wonder but rarely say out loud: “What if it’s true?” Jack Zimmerman, Mike McLaughlin, and Jake Palmer take on a gritty mix of conspiracies—from aliens and JFK to Chronic Wasting Disease being a plot from the in…
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In this episode of Strength From Service, Michael Hintz shares the journey that started by watching his father serve—and eventually led him to follow that same path. After high school, Michael joined the Army and found himself in the 82nd Airborne Division, deploying to Afghanistan twice. He later transitioned to the National Guard, where he contin…
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From Artillery to Faith: Logan Woods on War, Purpose, and Redemption In this episode of Strength From Service, Logan Woods joins Jack, Mike, and Jake for a powerful conversation about transformation, purpose, and the realities of service. Logan opens up about joining the Guard to follow in his family’s footsteps—and to afford college—but his path q…
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Leading the Force: Chief Matt Grochow on Modern Policing, Leadership, and Life in the Spotlight In this episode of Strength from Service, we sit down with Chief Matt Grochow of the St. Peter Police Department. From undercover operations to leading a department in today’s high-pressure climate, Matt brings honest insight into the world of law enforc…
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In the first-ever Service Announcement episode, Jack, Mike, and Jake sit down for an unfiltered conversation about the hardest moments they’ve faced—and the lessons that came out of them. This is real talk from three guys who’ve seen life hit hard and still chose to fight forward. From grief and grit to rebuilding purpose and connection, we open up…
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Ryan Frank’s story is one of service—start to finish. He shares how he joined the Army, deployed to Afghanistan, and was wounded in action. But that wasn’t the end of his mission. Today, he continues to serve as a Veterans Service Officer in Nicollet County, helping other warriors navigate life after the uniform. And now—he’s a dad again, with a ne…
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Strength From Sacrifice: A Memorial Day Reflection
48:20
48:20
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48:20On this Memorial Day episode of Strength From Service, Jack and Mike sit down to talk about what this day really means—far beyond the BBQs and long weekends. They walk through the true cost of war, the staggering numbers behind America’s fallen, and the deep, personal ripples that loss leaves behind. From the black granite of the Vietnam Wall to th…
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Pastor Matt Sims joins Strength from Service after finding the studio and meeting the hosts one evening as he walked by. Pastor Matt shares his story of how he found his calling to the faith and how that led him from Bible College, to moving to Mankato to start Canvas Church, an Assemblies of God congregation, at 25 years of age. Jack asks some que…
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Jack Zimmerman - Beyond Five Minutes
1:08:28
1:08:28
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1:08:28Jack, Mike, and Jake all sit down in the Nielsen Blacktopping studio to chat about Jack's new book, "Beyond Five Minutes, Lessons From a Wounded Warrior's Life Outdoors". This book is the companion and continuation book to Jack's first penned work, "Five Minutes, 300 Seconds That Changed My Life". The men cover some of the themes and stories from t…
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James Chally, DMSc, P.A.-C is back in the Nielsen Blacktopping studio as it's first repeat guest. He visits to give a bit of an update including his new endeavor of writing a children's book about the camp dog that he and his unit had in Afghanistan. "HALO" is the true story of how the camp dog made it's way from Afghanistan to the home of one of s…
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When Jack Zimmerman was a lane-clearing St. Clair Clipper basketball player, he had to face Coach Tim Anderson across the court. Jack and Jake talk with Coach Anderson about each of their small town roots and how that shaped each of them as adults. Coach Anderson shares his many stories from being a player that didn't see the court and how it evolv…
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Kyle Mrozek understands the value of hard work and how that work can help you create lasting relationships, great memories, and community growth. Kyle's work with the Mankato Kiwanis Club and Mankato Moondogs and Mashers has served our community for over 20 years and has helped countless other people and organizations. Kyle joins Jack and Jake to d…
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Mike Richman joins the guys a few weeks before his upcoming Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) Light Heavyweight Championship fight on December 21st at the Hard Rock Casino in Hollywood Florida. McLaughlin and Richman recount their story of first crossing paths in infantry training after enlisting in the Marines. Richman shares his story of …
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Senator Nick Frentz (DFL) is a member of the Minnesota Senate from the 19th District and he joins Mike and Jake to share his story from being born in California to his journey back to Mankato where his families roots began. Senator Frentz talks about his education at William Mitchell (or "Billy Mitch" if you're in the know), about how he took the b…
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The hosts have an conversation with each other a day after the election and results. Topics include everything from hunting, to the conspiracy theories surrounding the JFK assassination, to whether or not the United States would do better if professionals dressed up in suits for work. Included in the conversation is the role of local media within o…
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On top of being a lawyer, an endurance bike rider, and professor, John Baker is a Retired Marine Gunny that thrives in helping his fellow Veteran. He has helped with Veteran Homes, set up and trained for Veterans court, and has successfully defended Veterans with his Hamline Law degree. John and the guys talk about what got him into The Corps nearl…
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World War II Veteran Dennis Boldt landed on Utah Beach during in the invasion on Normandy, or as many of us know it, D-Day. Dennis joins our hosts and talks about his upbringing, what influenced him to join the Army, his time in the military, and some of the past 80 years since D-Day. He shares some stories on his training as an anti-aircraft gunne…
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Join us as the guys get back together after having a few weeks off. Jack is back after a long hunting trip in South Africa and he shares stories and photos with the Mike and Jake of his bounty. Find out what his favorite meal was, his most memorable hunt, how an antenna almost spoiled a hunt, and the premise for a new book. The guys discuss what it…
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You may recognize Eric Anderson from his days as a financial planner, or you may know him as the former Mayor of Mankato. Join Eric as he talks with a two-man crew of Jack and Jake about all things Mayor, including how fast pitch softball helped him connect with small towns across the state and earned him accolades as he departed his office. The gu…
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If you've ever seen Caddyshack, then you might think you know what Fred Taylor went through to become the Superintendent of the Mankato Golf Club for 43 years. While growing up on a former golf course in Mankato, Fred chased striped squirrels instead of gophers and shares his stories of learning about grass, trees, and all things horticulture. Fred…
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Jake, Jack, and Mike take this episode to explore more of the Nielsen Blacktopping Studios and end up in a comfy corner provided by Rooms and Rest in Mankato. The Veterans on the couch test the civilian's knowledge on military acronyms. Each host catches the listeners up on goings on outside of the studio including Warfare Motorsports, "The BBQ Sho…
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When your brother calls you and says he needs a change and a move out of Phoenix, you do what you can to help him. Jack answered that call for Miles Hurley. People that haven't served may not know the bond that is shared between brothers in arms. Miles and Jack are brothers in every way, except blood. Having served together in the 101st in Afghanis…
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Shortly after his graduation from a Christian College, James Chally surprised his family and friends by joining the Army. Although he didn't know it when he enlisted, he was continuing on a family legacy that had started with his grandfather during Pearl Harbor. After his first deployment as counter intelligence, he was left wanting more and decide…
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Dr. Ethan Brinkman took his opportunities from childhood ailments to fuel an interest in overcoming injuries as an adult. He joins the Strength from Service guys to talk about he went from breakdancing for the Timberwolves to a passion for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has brought him from being a student to growing his BJJ community from 30 to 150 as an own…
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Scott Wolfe joins Mike, Jack, and Jake to talk about his journey from the Army's 82nd Airborne Division out of high school, to becoming a local Police Officer and Sheriff's Deputy at the same time, all the way to the peak of his career, graduating Jack from DARE in grade school. Scott talks about how his and his families story has seen it's share o…
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Jack and Mike sit down with Matt Little, who you might say was integral in connecting the two Veterans. Matt showed his appreciation for Veterans in his community through his restaurant in Mankato, Minnesota, Buster's. Even though Buster's is gone today, the legacy of what it was for for those that served the community still lives on. Mike and Jack…
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Franz Marti joins Strength from Service to share his story. From growing up in small town Minnesota, to being a member of the second oldest brewery family in the nation, Franz has had a unique path to get to where he's at now. After leaving culinary school and deciding to follow in his older brother's path of enlisting, he joined the National Guard…
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Former guest Brandon Macemon brings his daughter Bella to Strength From Servcie to chat about how life was like for her as an "Army Brat". She recounts her upbringing from being born in Mankato all the way to completing her fist year at Gustavus Adolphus College, along with stops in Colorado, Washington, and Germany along the way. Bella shares a st…
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Steve Romnes has a passion for helping children. Through his involvement with Young Life as well as MN Adult and Teen Challenge, he continues to give back to the local youth of Southern Minnesota. Steve joins Strength from Service and shares his successes in business as well as how he uses his own stories to connect with a younger generation.…
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Jared Sasen and Jesus Pereira are two of the three co-hosts of the local radio show and national podcast, "VSO Talk Radio". On their show with co-host Eric Segundo, they connect Veterans, Active-Duty Military, National Guard, family members, and spouses with information and services available to them on the State and Federal level. Jared and Jesus …
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Jenna Schmidtke knew what she wanted to do when she enlisted in the Army in 2006; help others. As an Army Combat Medic Vet, she served with and treated her fellow soldiers over two deployments in Kuwait and Iraq. Jenna shares her story of professional and personal adversity along her journey to becoming the County Veteran’s Service Officer for Fari…
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Strength from Service Update with Mike and Jack
32:47
32:47
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32:47Mike and Jack have had a long hiatus but it hasn't been without some work being put in behind the scenes. They touch on what they've been up to, what they've been working on, and they share some exciting new news regarding the Strength from Service Podcast.
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Trent Nielsen is a native to the St. Peter, Mankato area. A high school wrestler, United States Marine Corp Reserve Vet, husband, father of 3, youth wrestling coach and local business owner. Trent continues to serve and grow as a person and business owner. From humble beginning to his new journey of sobriety and continuing to grow the family busine…
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Brandon Macemon Husband – Father -Emergency Medicine and Urgent Care Operations Manager - Retired Green Beret – and all-around good guy who continues to use the skills he learned on his way to becoming a Special Forces Master Sergeant to serve his community. Enjoy our chat with Brandon Macemon.By Jake Palmer, Mike McLaughlin, Jack Zimmerman
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As the founding member of Carlson Partners, Ted charts the course for the company. Ted is constantly going, moving, doing, seeking – working towards something more. He brings his innate leadership skills and passion for creating winning strategies to meet clients’ real estate needs, while delivering a high level of service. Having completed work in…
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Logan Sheppard grew up quick in the Mankato area, built a family and now a successful business. Logan has been serving his community as a youth coach, mentor, and now employer. His story is a good one, his drive and dtermination is an inspiration.By Jake Palmer, Mike McLaughlin, Jack Zimmerman
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John M. Kriesel is a Minnesota politician and former member of the Minnesota House of Representatives who represented District 57A, which includes portions of Dakota and Washington counties in the southeastern part of the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Kriesel served in the Minnesota Army National Guard from 1998 to 2008, rising to the level of sta…
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Sherriff Jeff Wersal grew up in law enforcement, with a father that served. From city patrol officer, to head of the River Valley Task Force, to now serving as Sherriff of Blue Earth County - Sherriff Jeff Wersal talks about the ups, downs, and frustrations of serving at a time when police are not always seen as the "good guys".…
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Chris Hinton, a Navy Vet that served in the Gulf immediately after 9-11, came back to Minnesota to continue to serve. Studying law enforcement, and working corrections, to serving on Veterans Court, now Waseca County Veterans Service Officer, as well as the current President of the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers. Chris is …
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Tim Murray is a mission bigger than himself. Working with Trinity Sober Homes https://www.trinitysoberhomes.org/ Tim is diving head first into the world of Military and Veteran Sober Homes with "Bravo Zulu". bravozuluhouse.org From getting sober himself to 13 years of working to help provide quality, dignified, sober housing for men and now vets, T…
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Dr. George Komaridis, PhD, LP Dr. Komaridis immigrated to the United States at the age of 1yr from Greece, after growing up on the tough streets of Manhattan’s lower east side he eventually was selected to attend Wesleyan University, and then on to the University of Nebraska where he earned his PHD is Psychology. George entered the world of teachin…
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Staff Sergeant Gary John Guggenberger, United States Army, was held as a Prisoner of War in South Vietnam and Cambodia from January 14, 1969 until his release on February 12, 1973. Gary was awarded the Prisoner of War Medal, The Purple Heart, and two Bronze Stars. After his release in 1973, Gary went on to work for the Colorado Department of Natura…
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Kevin Mettler grew up in North Mankato, where he was a state wrestler and football player in high school, after earning his degree from Minnesota State – Mankato in Corrections and a minor in Sociology. Kevin has worked in corrections and probration, and now serves as the Minnesota District 5 Drug Court Coordinator, Ward 3 Mankato City Council memb…
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