Episodes of Direct or Detour
Tracy Brinkmann has been on a journey that is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Having faced profound personal challenges—including addiction, divorce, bankruptcy, and the tragic loss of his 18-month-old daughter—Tracy transformed his life from these depths of adversity. He ascended from these hardships to lead planning and marketing departments for some…
Breaking into the telecom industry requires more than just technical skills—it demands the right training, connections, and opportunities. Few people understand this better than Michael Cole, President of Next Level Technician. His company specializes in bridging the gap between skilled technicians and businesses, helping both thrive in a competitive industry. But Michael’s path to leadership…
Embarking on a broadcasting career is a journey filled with challenges, uncertainties, and immense growth. In our latest episode of Direct Or Detour, we had the privilege of speaking with Marc Schmidt, a dedicated podcast host and producer who left his hometown to pursue his passion for broadcasting. Marc’s story is one of resilience, adaptability,…
In today’s digital landscape, where content is king and authentic storytelling reigns supreme, few have mastered the art of amplifying voices like Adam Torres. As the Co-Founder of Mission Matters Media, Adam has dedicated his career to providing a platform for entrepreneurs, executives, and experts to share their narratives with the world. The Genesis of…
Eric Burns has a career trajectory that is a testament to the power of resilience and the entrepreneurial spirit. Beginning as a Cincinnati firefighter, Eric’s ambition led him to the realm of real estate investing, where he has made significant strides in both residential and commercial sectors. His story underscores the potential of passive income…
What happens when a Special Forces operator shifts his mission from combat to healing? Meet Tim Thomas, a veteran turned breathwork advocate, who has dedicated his life to empowering others through mental health recovery, resilience training, and the science of well-being. With a deep understanding of trauma and recovery, Tim has built some of Australia’s…
Neurodiversity and mental health advocacy are receiving much-needed recognition. Thomas Wilson stands out as a strong voice for change. As a writer, business owner, advocate, sensory-friendly events specialist, and community leader, Thomas has dedicated his life to creating inclusive spaces where individuals can embrace their unique strengths. His contributions to the neurodiverse and mental health…
Innovation often comes from personal experiences. Doug Katz, a West Point graduate and disabled Army veteran, never expected to become an adaptive product innovator. But after facing upper extremity impairments and caring for an elderly loved one, he saw a need. Maintaining independence in the kitchen was challenging. This realization led him to create NULU,…
Finding the perfect mattress can be a challenge, but for Derek Hales, it turned into a full-time career. As the Founder & Editor-in-Chief of NapLab.com, Derek has tested over 410 mattresses, helping consumers make informed decisions about their sleep. What started as a personal quest for a better mattress turned into a thriving business, and…
After years of navigating the corporate world, Lorraine Ball realized that the traditional office environment wasn’t where she thrived. Frustrated with bureaucracy, glass ceilings, and—yes—bad coffee, she made a bold decision to forge her own path. Today, Lorraine is a successful entrepreneur, author, and professional speaker, dedicated to helping small business owners master marketing and…