Continuum - The IBC Podcast

In this Continuum™ episode, we sit down with the dynamic leader and president of Benedictine College, Steve Minnis. From humble beginnings in St. Joseph, MO, to steering the helm of a renowned institution, Steve shares the his wisdom and insights that have guided his path to success. Discover the power of being mission-driven, the secret behind the Benedictine's exponential growth and the mantra that keeps the Benedictine community pushing "forward, always forward." Don't miss out on this riveting conversation filled with insights that promise to ignite a flame of passion and purpose in everyone who listens. Stay tuned for a tale of resilience, faith and the relentless pursuit of greatness!

In the Continuum™ podcast, we sit down with Omaha-based attorney Alex Engelkamp to delve into his inspiring journey from Benedictine College to the legal world. Engelkamp shares candid insights from his career, emphasizing the value of personal mission statements and the importance of fostering genuine connections with others. Listen in as he recounts the pivotal moments and influential figures that have shaped his path to success, offering a rich narrative filled with wisdom and encouragement for aspiring professionals.

Discover the woman who jumped from the eerie world of haunted houses straight into the heart of Notre Dame football! After graduating from Notre Dame, Lisa's journey with the Yellow Pages to writing about sports legends will leave you stunned. Dive into this tale of unexpected twists, entrepreneurial spirit, and has an undying passion to make the world a better place...

"I think you need to enjoy what you're doing. And I think that we all should be giving back and trying to make the world a better place. I mean, I'm not moving mountains with what I'm doing, but I feel like every little thing helps."

Cori Weston's first steps on the Notre Dame campus was her arrival for her first year of college. Seven years later, she had her BA and JD degrees. Step into a riveting conversation as Cori traverses the landscape of personal growth, business acumen and the power of community. Corey's tales of resilience, her transformative experiences from Notre Dame to New York and then to Hawaii, and her profound reflections on success will captivate you. Learn about Cori's career ascent, her invaluable life lessons, and the courage it takes to redefine success. This is one conversation you won't want to miss!

Enjoy our latest podcast episode where James Lang, Ph.D. (Notre Dame, '91), a former professor turned best-selling author, unravels the mysteries behind his journey from college professor to the literary world. Ever wondered about the balance between passion and profession, or how to truly make a difference in today's fast-paced society? Dr. Lang's insights are values of wisdom, challenging us to stay open to learning and to always keep an eye on those marginalized in society. Don't miss out on this riveting conversation that is certain to make you think and share.

Have you ever wondered about the journey of a young individual thrown into the vibrant culture of Colombia with the Peace Corps? Dive into our this episode of Continuum™ featuring Riley Morales (University of San Diego graduate), a spirited adventurer who didn't let her limited Spanish skills deter her ambitious dreams. From a close-knit family in the Pacific Northwest to tackling real-world challenges in a foreign land, Riley's story is a testament to resilience, passion, and the drive to make a difference. Curious to know more? We promise, this is one narrative you won't want to miss!

Discover the journey of Julia Freund, a New Yorker who graduated from the university of San Diego, sailed from Germany to San Diego, learning from diverse cultures and shaping her career in management consulting. Find out how she climbed the corporate ladder, from a research analyst to a consultant, and her secret recipe for success. Don't miss her invaluable advice for recent graduates and young professionals on how to navigate the world of business and make an impact!

If you missed this Continuum™ installment, put this conversation with Joe McMahon on your playlist. Joe is an attorney in the Chicago area who was formerly in the US Attorney General office, former Kane County State's Attorney and was appointed as special prosecutor in the Jason Van Dyke murder case. In private practice today, Joe embodies true leadership and ethics professionally and personally.

Reggie Brooks is the Executive Director of Holtz's Heroes Foundation, an initiative focused on preserving and supporting the legacy of Coach Lou Holtz and his players through community outreach and mentorship. Reggie played at Notre Dame from 1989-1992, then was drafted by the Washington Redskins. Reggie retired after four years in the NFL, eventually joining Notre Dame for 17 years. And now, working with Holtz's Heroes. This is a great conversation with a sensational person - a person who rushed for 227 years against USC, faced career challenges, raised a wonderful family with his wife and is now dedicated to ensuring others overcome their own struggles. If interested in learning more about Holtz's Heroes, feel free to contact Reggie at rbrooks@holtzsheroes.org.

Abbey Johnson was set on being a teacher. But during her first year at High Point University, Abbey realized teaching wasn't for her. Abbey shares her thoughts on changing majors and pursuing a Nonprofit Management major, as well as making the move from suburban Greensboro, NC to New York City. Following her passion, Abbey then went back to school and received her master in Nonprofit Management from Notre Dame. Today, Abbey works for Notre Dame helping people do more in their lives working with the alumni clubs. This conversation will reinforce the importance of believing in yourself.

This is one of our very first Continuum™ interviews.  Whether you previously listened to it or this is your first episode, spend some time this week with this episode.  When finished listening, you will be truly inspired. 

Caitlin Crommett graduated from Notre Dame in 2015 and is the founder and president DreamCatchers Foundation.  Caitlin has taken her high school service project and created a nationwide nonprofit that empowers students to fulfill the end-of-life dreams of hospice patients. 

A remarkable story from a remarkable person.

Like most of us, Tom Thayer has been faced with career choices. And at 33 years old, Tom was faced with his initial career no longer an option. This interview with former Notre Dame football player, NFL veteran and current broadcaster/journalist explores career transition is a very unique perspective and highlights the importance of being prepared - for today and tomorrow - and taking advantage of every opportunity given to you. While Tom did not have the opportunity to be a part of the SIBC, he truly embraces the spirit of the program. And if you are looking for a book to read, his recommendation is fantastic.

Ken Stellon is truly an anomaly - he's been with the same company for 24 years. Shortly after graduating from Arizona State, Ken started with FPG. Ken shares his perspective on why these 24 years have been invigorating - putting his team in a position where every two years, they can look back and be amazed at their accomplishments. In the mid-2000s, Ken went back to school to complement his career, earning his MBA from Notre Dame. This is a great conversation on the importance of company culture, challenging yourself and putting people first. An invigorating conversation that will make you think.

How many of us have been faced with an education-defining moment? First year of college? In some sense, Steve Dyer is no different than many people - pursuing a dream of becoming an attorney, but Steve's path is a little unique. Attending Notre Dame on a four-year Army ROTC scholarship, Steve faced a challenge the first week of his second semester - being removed from his French class. Steve changes course and ends up majoring in Japanese (and economics). And the start of a remarkable journey - studying abroad, joining a basketball team will in Tokyo and winning the Small College Championship, getting arrested in multiple countries, being an Army Judge Advocate General following law school, and transitioning to private practice. This interview will definitely make you laugh and provide proof we all have a Guardian Angel.

Lisa Kelly was focused on pursuing an engineering degree when she started at Notre Dame. A year in, she changed course and focused on a marketing major. This conversation will open your eyes to a person who has successfully combined her passions of writing and Notre Dame football into a remarkable and fulfilling career. Lisa shares how she won a new Volvo at MSG, actively guides Purina's ecommerce initiative, has published multiple books and the art of owning two zoos. And on top of these activities, Lisa is continually committed to giving back - at work, to Notre Dame and to her community. As Lisa says: "I think that we all should be given back and trying to make the world a better place. I'm not moving mountains with what I'm doing, but I feel like every little thing helps...to try and make the world a better place."

One of the first Continuum™ podcasts was with Sr. Maureen Geary, a 1978 graduate of Notre Dame. If you missed the episode, this is a great opportunity to listen to an inspirational conversation.

Sr. Maureen majored in accounting, received her CPA, worked for Ernst & Young, and then opted to go to law school. After practicing law for four year, she decided to join the Dominican Sisters of Grand Rapids.

This is a great conversation with a person not afraid to initiate change and committed to helping others - truly a gift.

Pat Callans graduated from Notre Dame in 1984 and pursued his dream of being a lawyer, graduated from Northwestern Law School in 1987. This conversation will lead you on Pat's intriguing career path from private practice to recently celebrating his 29th anniversary with Costco, his focus on family and provide insights on Pat's long-term relationship with Seattle University. In addition to sharing insights on ethical leadership and Jim Sinegal, Pat talks about the influence Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos has had on him and his family. A captivating conversation you will enjoy.

The IBC, and the SIBC, are the result of the generosity of Frank Potenziani and the M&T Trust.  Join us for the engaging conversation with Frank as he traces his 1988 conversation with Fr. Hesburgh that spawned the SIBC at Notre Dame, as well as his compelling career journey.  This reflective conversation with Frank highlights his generosity, commitment to his beliefs and thoughts on continually improving. Whether you are an IBC/SIBC member or simply looking for inspiration, you will value this conversation.

Since 2012, Jim Small has been an integral part of Notre Dame. Jim is the Associate Vice President, responsible for Notre Dame's annual giving and storytelling efforts for the Department of Development. Listen to this conversation and you will quickly understand and appreciate Jim's ability to tell a compelling story. From introducing his good friend David Stern to a young, unknown Mark Cuban to saying "no thanks" on purchasing Dan Snyder's startup, Jim will captivate you with his insights on career transition, leadership and management. And explain the importance of being creative and being able to execute.

James McGuire graduated from Benedictine College in 2020, majoring in finance and business management. A former SIBC president, James shares some fantastic insights on the influence SIBC has in his professional life, as well as the importance of embracing the IBC mission of being a force for global good. James' view on leadership explains the importance his parents have had, and continue to have, on his life. From growing up in central Wisconsin to arriving back in the US from a Guatemala mission trip the day before US airports were shut down due to Covid, James takes us on an introspective journey on his thoughts on leadership, family and career path.

Kevin Corbley grew up in the Washington D.C. area and attended Georgetown Prep. He chose Notre Dame for a simple reason - in his mind, you couldn't go wrong with a Notre Dame education. Following graduation Kevin took a job in Washington, D.C., to pursue his journalism career with his geology degree. And that led to learning and working in aerospace and the early stages of the geospatial spatial. As geospatial grew, Kevin opted to move to Colorado and start his own company. Kevin shares his thoughts on heading West, starting his own company, building a successful company parallel with a brand new industry and not choosing the easy path. And adds some important leadership lessons and a personal experience with Kurt Vonnegut.

Drew Kiel grew up in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. His senior year of high school, he was "guided" to apply to Notre Dame. Four years later, Drew graduated with his BBA in marketing. At Notre Dame, Drew was one of the early pioneers to the SIBC and shares the critical importance the SIBC has had on his life. Returning to Brisbane, Drew embarked on his marketing career. Today, Drew still lives in Australia and has left the corporate marketing world to follow his passion. This is a remarkable conversation that explores career transition, learning to take chances and truly highlights the definition of success.

Kevin Jerger had his career planned - major in accounting, gain his CPA and work for a Big Four accounting firm. But in his junior year at the University of San Diego, Kevin started to look at an alternative major and found business analytics. Kevin shares his change of major and the impact the SIBC had on his career direction. Today, Kevin is a data scientist, providing insights based on data modeling and able to lean on his accounting thought process benefits him today.

Ryan Boh graduated from Benedictine College in 2014 with a degree in International Business. In his first few years following graduation, Ryan moved numerous times, eventually moving back to his Denver-area home. With an innate drive to give back and learn, join us as Ryan shares some great insights to leadership, career progression and the positives to dyslexia, as well as earning his Masters during a career relocation.

Chris Stevens graduated from Notre Dame in 1974 and began what would be a circuitous journey in his career. Starting with Proctor & Gamble, then to Anheuser-Busch and eventually moving to coffee as a co-founder of Keurig. Today, Chris is back at Notre Dame as an associate professor in the Mendoza College of Business and is highly involved in Notre Dame's Inspired Leadership Initiative program. Chris' positiveness is infectious as he shares the importance of family, impacting young people and taking risks.

You know all those unbelievable and memorable images you see of Notre Dame's campus and events? Fr. Hesburgh with Enda Kenny...lightening spreading over campus at dusk...fresh snow at the Grotto...Fr. Jenkins walking on campus. The vast majority of ND photos are taken by Matt Cashore. A 1994 graduate of Notre Dame, Matt has been ND's primary photographer for 30+ years. In this enlightening conversation, Matt shares the importance of accurately archiving Notre Dame's vast photo library, his leadership in developing a state-of-the-art photo filing system and insights to his passion. And with a Ron Burgundy quote, this conversation with Matt is an episode you don't want to miss.

On November 8, 2022, the original conversation with Dr. Amy Novak was published.  This is a fantastic conversation with Dr. Novak, President of St. Ambrose University in Davenport, IA.  This Continuum conversation highlights her amazing commitment to children (she and her husband have eight children), students and education.  If you missed this episode, you can now easily access the conversation.  And if you already listened, there are some tremendous insights to leadership and life to be reinforced.

Ryan Kerrigan was one of the early participants in the SIBC.  Graduating from Notre Dame with a Finance degree in 1995, Ryan was one of McKinsey's first direct Notre Dame hires. Consulting to private equity to founding his own company, Ryan shares insights on career options, grad school and the importance of doing what you like. He and his wife founded Kerrigan Advisors, a leading sell-side advisor to auto dealers. Growing up in the Midwest, Ryan's natural risk aversion has morphed into a belief that we need to worry less and do more. A thought-provoking conversation with a fantastic person.

Caroline Gash is a 2004 graduate of Notre Dame with a BS in Science.  With an initial plan to be a doctor, she opted to change from science to finance, earning her MBA and Masters in Finance, both from the University of Denver.  Today, Caroline actively runs IrishAngels, a private equity entity funding high potential startups.  Caroline shares her career path and what gave, and continues to give, her direction, from investing opportunities with her grandmother to avoiding analysis paralysis, whether in growing businesses to giving back to the community and .  This is a tremendous conversation with a fantastic opportunity.

Juan Llovet de Casso just graduated from Notre Dame in December 2022 with degrees in Business Analytics and Applied and Computational Mathematics.  Growing up in Madrid, Juan parents exposed him to studying in the US.  During his high school year in the US, he was introduced to Notre Dame and the following summer attended a pre-summer program at ND.  Juan shares the specific aspects that attracted him to Notre Dame and his college experience, including a Covid interruption..  Juan also explain the importance of his SIBC experience, leading to him being president of the SIBC for his last two semesters.  Enjoy a great conversation from a person with a grounded perspective and a clear view of his future opportunities.

Ed Flavin received his BA degree in journalism from Northeastern University and began his career in communications.  Whether BioTech, not-for profit or transportation, Ed has continually advanced the importance of communication.  And during the early part of his career, Ed continued to evolve by earning a MA in communications from Northwestern University and then a MBA from Notre Dame.  He has been able to combine his passion for Notre Dame and communications by being a part of the Notre Dame National Radio Network.  Ed shares the guiding principle his parents taught him and his siblings - the importance of travel and education.

Graduating from Notre Dame in 1995, Dave Stumm started his career in advertising.   Twelve years later, he and his brothers took a leap and started their own company.  With thorough planning, and each brother committed to their respective families, Dave shares tremendous insights on leadership, trust and the importance of following the "golden rule".  Dave's openness discussing the dynamics of starting a family business, staying actively involved in his family activities and giving back to the community serves as a great foundation for his personal and professional success.

Oldrich Bures is the founder of the Center for Security Studies and a professor of International Political Relations at Metropolitan University Prague, a private university in the Czech Republic.  Dr. Bures was a Fulbright Fellow at Notre Dame's Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies (MA) and carries his passion for peace in his continued research in the areas of Conflict Resolution and International Security.  Dr. Bures is recognized as a leader in Europe on privatization of security and counter-terrorism.  During this engaging conversation, Dr. Bures touches on his upbringing in Czechoslovakia, venturing to the US for school and the importance of learning how to think, write, analyze and express.   

Maria Klostrakis will graduate from the University of San Diego Knauss School of Business in four months with two degrees - International Business and Marketing.  In her first semester at USD, Maria became actively involved in the SIBC.  Today, she is the president of the USD SIBC chapter and continues to be actively involved in projects to benefit herself and the SIBC.  Join us for this fantastic conversation as Maria shares her views on leadership and the importance of being involved.

Dave Willson is the President of TL Fab, a steel fabrication company based in Southern California.  With a finance degree from Notre Dame, Dave started his career with a small family run business and in a steady progression, gained additional experience while adding an MBA from USC.  Enjoy Dave's insights on leadership and education, as well as the importance of mentors in his career.

As simple as this sounds, Tom White went to college to for an education, not to get a job.  Tom graduated from Notre Dame in 2014, with his sights set on being an attorney.  He refers to his degree as PLS - Probably Law School.  Instead of law school, entered the business world.  From starting and shuttering a company to Stephen Colbert, join us on this insightful, candid, funny and heart-warming conversation from a person who needs only three things to survive - faith, family and friends.

Chris Seidensticker hails from Gulfport, MS.  After graduating from Notre Dame in 1995, Chris began his finance career, leading him to Fort Lauderdale, Latin America, Ireland, Chicago, New York and eventually San Francisco.  His finance background ushered and complemented his move into operations.  Join us for a fascinating conversation on Chris' career path, key life learnings and leadership.

Phil Cunningham is currently Managing Director at Accel-KKR, a company focused on partnering with mid-market software and tech-enabled service businesses to generate grow at a considerable high level.  Phil started in sales with a large Fortune 500 company, transitioning to leading sales teams in private equity space, eventually having complete responsibility for a PE-owned company.  Today, he leads Accel-KKR's emerging growth companies sector.  Join us as Phil describes his career path, great insights on leadership and the importance of his Notre Dame MBA to his career.

Marty Whalen graduated from Notre Dame in 1982 and reluctantly went to work in the family office supply business.  In a series of events, he and his brothers closely worked together and led the company to eventually being purchased by Xerox 30 years later.  And then the fun started.  This is an amazing story of a person focused on the community, personal growth and family. 

Sr. Maureen Geary is a Dominican nun in Grand Rapids, MI.  A 1978 graduate of Notre Dame, Sr. Maureen majored in accounting, received her CPA, worked for Ernst & Young, and then opted to go to law school.  Practiced law for four year and then...decided to join the Dominican Sisters of Grand Rapids. This is a tremendous conversation with a person not afraid to change and committed to helping others - truly a gift.

John Cannon graduated from Notre Dame with two degrees - Finance and Political Science and began his career.  And what a career so far.  John has further pursued his education (three Master degrees - Franciscan University of Steubenville [Masters in Theology], Mount Angel Seminary [MA Philosophy] and Harvard University [MBA] and questioned his career path, with a willingness to question his direction.  In 2020, John founded SENT Ventures, a platform focused on energizing entrepreneurs with the power of Catholicism. 

Camille Rudge is responsible for the strategic direction of professional education courses at Notre Dame.  Prior to joining Notre Dame, Camille worked with and started numerous derivatives businesses at CIBC Bank US, ABN AMRO, Bank of America (LaSalle Bank NA) and Citibank (European American Bank), as well as founding Fifth Third Bank’s (Old Kent Bank) foreign exchange franchise. She also an active board member of the Hubbard Street Dance Chicago and St. Francis High School (Wheaton, IL).  Join us on the fascinating conversation with Camille as she shares the critical importance of her husband, Kevin, and their three children on her career and life. 

Gary Gullett began his career in manufacturing and operations, yet always had a passion for photography.  In the late 90s, Gary began teaching a photography class at Rock Valley College and shortly after, formed Adventure Safari Network.  After receiving his MBA from Notre Dame, Gary and his wife developed a plan to fully develop the business.  Today, Adventure Safari Network is the premier photography safari provider, providing educational programs and cultural experiences in unique locations, such as Antarctica, Africa and Asia.  Gary shares his insights on the impact of his education and career in manufacturing to developing Adventure Safari Network.

Erin (Aucar) Lenssen received her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with Business Economics & Peace Studies minors, and a Masters in Social Enterprise from American University.  In her short career, Erin has developed a true sense of service.    

Dr. Amy Novak is the President of St. Ambrose University in Davenport, IA.  Dr. Novak earned her bachelor's degree from Notre Dame, a master's from Wright State and her Ph.D. from Creighton. Prior to St. Ambrose, Dr. Novak served in multiple administrative roles at Dakota Wesleyan University, including provost and executive vice president from 2008-2013 and president from 2013-2021.  This Continuum conversation highlights her amazing commitment to children (she and her husband have eight children), students and education.

Joe McMahon is an attorney in Geneva, IL.  After graduating from the University of Iowa, Joe went to law school and begin (and continues) a tremendous career in the legal field.  And during his career, he went back to school - Notre Dame - to earn his MBA.  This is an intriguing interview with an attorney whose career continues to evolve and reinforces the importance of leadership.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Caitlin Crommett, founder and president of DreamCatchers.  Starting as a high school service project, Caitlin followed her passion in creating DreamCatchers - an opportunity to connect younger and older generations by empowering students and their local communities to fulfill the end-of-life dreams of hospice patients.  After receiving her undergraduate degree from Notre Dame, Caitlin completely focused on growing DreamCatchers.

Matt Bush graduated from Notre Dame with a degree in Economics. Matt started his career in San Diego as a portfolio analyst which led to his founding Trinitas Capital in 2017.  Since 2016, Matt has actively been involved in the International Business Council, currently serving as Chairman. 

Mary Cornfield graduated from the University of Notre Dame and embarked on a career focused on working for start-ups.  Somewhere on her journey, she realized she wanted to have her own start-up.  Continuum is pleased to share this conversation of Mary Cornfield's journey.  Mary is the co-founder of Capitan, a company focused on improving the management of climbing gyms.