Business Ethics, Walk the Talk

Join Blake on this episode of 'Walk the Talk' as he sits down with Zak Olsen, President of Ronco Construction, a multi-generational family business with deep roots in Omaha. Zak shares how his journey began, from working alongside his parents, Ron and Linda Olsen, who founded the company in 1976, to leading Ronco through challenging economic times and his father’s passing. His take on modernizing construction in the midwest with Ronco's 'people-first' culture and commitment to a community and how that has shaped their recent successes. A deep look into Ronco's unique approach to ethical leadership in the 21st Century, to supporting smaller contractors, promoting the trades, and fostering a safe and collaborative work environment. Zak discusses the importance of adaptability, navigating industry changes, and maintaining a strong company culture through generational transitions. Zak’s deep down belief of 'let's not let life pass by.’ We can have a balance of professional life and fulfill our love of family and everything around us, without sacrificing our own personal happiness. Tune in to the latest episode, brought to you by the Business Ethics Alliance. Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1847361/open_sms]

In this episode of 'Walk the Talk,' Blake interviews Leslie Little, the founder and CEO of Ethical Decision Making Limited (EDM). Leslie, an Omaha native now based in London, and Ethicspace morning keynote speaker, shares her fascinating career journey, from her early days in finance to her current work in ethical leadership. Leslie introduces her company's groundbreaking product, which aims to measure and develop 'ethical fluency' in leaders. Based on ten years of research from James Madison University, EDM uses a proprietary methodology to assess ethical decision-making and provide valuable insights to organizations. Blake and Leslie discuss the alarming rate of CEO failures due to unethical behavior and the need for a shift from short-term profit maximization to long-term value creation. They also explore the challenges of navigating ethical dilemmas in the digital age and the importance of genuine dialogue. We’re so thankful Leslie was able to sit down with us on such short notice! Enjoy an even deeper look into the science of the future of business ethics! Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1847361/open_sms]

In this episode of Walk the Talk, host Blake Peterson sits down with a true Omaha icon — Willy Theisen, founder of Godfather’s Pizza and lifelong entrepreneur. Willy shares stories from launching one of the fastest-growing pizza chains in the country to building a legacy rooted in vision, determination, and saying “yes” to opportunity. But his influence didn’t stop at pizza. From serving on boards like Creighton University, the Omaha Airport Authority, and the Business Ethics Alliance, to mentoring entrepreneurs and supporting countless community initiatives, Willy’s commitment to Omaha has shaped the city’s growth and spirit. Together, Blake and Willy explore what it means to lead ethically, stay grounded in your values, and create a lasting impact in both business and life. Should you tune in? As the Godfather of Pizza would say: “DO IT!” Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1847361/open_sms]

In this episode of "Ethics: Walk the Talk" with our host Blake Peterson, Dar Andrews visits the Webberized Studio. As a seasoned Senior Technology Leader with extensive experience in IT operations, Dar shares his insights on how organizations can achieve operational excellence through effective communication and ethical team building at all levels of a business. We also discuss his new book, "Total Experience," which presents an innovative approach to aligning the voices of customers, employees, strategic partners, and business operations to create seamless and efficient enterprise solutions. Dar gives us a glimpse into his life as a lifelong resident of Nebraska and how he passes on his values to his family. With a background that includes leadership roles at IDEX, Gateway, PayPal, and currently NEI Global, along with an education from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and a study abroad experience at Cambridge, Dar offers a unique and holistic perspective on business, technology, and life. Tune in for a fascinating conversation about business strategies, leadership insights, and a touch of ethical wisdom on this episode of the "Ethics: Walk the Talk Podcast," brought to you by the Business Ethics Alliance! Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1847361/open_sms]

This episode was recorded on December 7, 2024. We'd like to dedicate this episode to honor the memory of Howard Hawks, co-founder and chairman emeritus of Tenaska, who passed away in December 2024. A visionary leader and philanthropist, Mr. Hawks recognized both business opportunities and community needs.  His generosity and leadership shaped Omaha’s growth, enriched countless lives, and left a lasting legacy, like the upcoming Tenaska Center for Arts Engagement. Our hearts go out to his wife, Rhonda, his children, and all who knew him. We dedicate this episode, focused on ethical business partnerships and community impact, to Howard Hawks and the profound influence he had on our community. This week on "Walk the Talk with Blake Peterson," we're joined by Joan Squires, President of Omaha Performing Arts, and Ron Quinn, Executive VP at Tenaska, a local energy company that has quietly been  leading in their industry for years. These two remarkable guests are deeply involved in the exciting upcoming opening of the Tenaska Center for Arts Engagement in early 2026. This groundbreaking project represents a remarkable collaboration between Omaha Performing Arts and Tenaska Inc., demonstrating a powerful model of corporate social responsibility. Joan will share her vision for this transformative project, which will further amplify the already significant impact of Omaha Performing Arts, reaching over 600,000 people annually and generating a staggering $61 million in economic impact. Ron opens up on the importance of this partnership and how it demonstrates a commitment to ethical and impactful corporate citizenship. Together, it’s a unique and insightful conversation about the power of collaboration, the importance of social responsibility, and the lasting impact of supporting the arts in our community. Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1847361/open_sms]