• Will work for food, especially Tex-Mex (in the state of Texas)
• Has jumped out of a plane more than once
• Ask him about the 5-day bear hunt in Idaho

Mike doesn’t manage from a desk.

For him, the gap between a good sales team and one that’s winning is leadership — showing up, setting the pace, and following through. Miss a commitment, and credibility’s gone.

His rule is simple: never ask your team to do something you wouldn’t do yourself. That means straight talk and real accountability.

Mike spent more than two decades at Hormel, Rich Products, and Heinz, managing across non-commercial, chain, distribution, and K-12 on the broker and manufacturer sides. He’s been on every side of the table and knows exactly what it takes to deliver when the pressure is dialed to 11.

A proud University of Missouri grad, he’s now a frequent guest speaker, giving students an unfiltered view of how leaders actually get it done.

Favorite meal of all time? A five-star dinner on a private island celebrating his 25th wedding anniversary, a reminder that some meals stick with you.