In this episode, I sit down with the very real Tim Volkema, President of Schuil Coffee, Sparrows Coffee, and Joven Group, for a candid conversation on the powerful impact of authentic leadership. Tim shares insights from his diverse career, spanning both corporate and entrepreneurial experiences, where he has led with integrity, built strong relationships, and cultivated a company culture rooted in trust. We dive into embracing vulnerability, the perks (or "percs" ;)) of staying true to your values, and how authentic leadership can drive organizational success.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

*The unique challenges and opportunities of the coffee industry, and how Tim navigates this dynamic market. *Managing and working with diverse teams--leading people with varying skill sets and experiences. *The unique challenges and opportunities of the coffee industry, and how Tim navigates this dynamic market, in addition to supporting young growers. *Implementing change in a way that aligns with company values and ensures sustainable growth. *Tim’s role as a “bar raiser”, setting high standards, and fostering excellence within his teams. *The politics of the corporate world and how to navigate organizational dynamics with integrity. *Scaling organically, focusing on sustainable, values-driven growth, and growth through acquisition .

Tim's BIO:

Tim is currently the owner and CEO of Schuil Coffee in Grand Rapids, Michigan, a position he’s held since 2017. Schuil Coffee has distribution in hundreds of grocery stores, cafes, and offices through Michigan and the Midwest. Schuil Coffee also owns and operates the boutique Sparrows Coffee and Joven Coffee brands. Tim is also a certified Q Grader (the coffee equivalent of a sommelier).

Previously, Tim was an Operating Partner at The Windquest Group in Grand Rapids, where he focused primarily on portfolio operations and board governance. Prior to this role, Tim spent over 12 years leading businesses across a variety of industries. He ran the high-growth Wag.com pet business for Amazon, responsible for its top and bottom line results. Tim also served as an Amazon Bar Raiser—a leadership role within Amazon designed to improve its recruitment efforts. Prior to Amazon, Tim co-founded and ran a fast casual Indian restaurant/truck mini chain as its CEO, which won several awards including Best Meal under $15 in San Francisco. Prior to that, Tim spent five years at Kraft Foods, managing brands like Grey Poupon and Shake 'N Bake. Tim started his career with Deloitte’s Chicago office, working with clients on M&A transactions and bankruptcy reorganizations.

Tim received his MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School and his bachelor’s degree in economics from Calvin University.

Tim lives with his wife, Merideth, in Grand Rapids, and they have three children.

In this compelling podcast interview, Michael P. Phalen, the retired President of MedSurg at Boston Scientific Corporation (BSC), provides an in-depth look into the company's unique culture, innovative spirit, and core values that drove its success in the early days—taking it from a small private medical-device start-up to the public medical-device giant it is today.

This conversation was recorded May 22, 2024, 32 years after going public, May 19, 1992. It is a “must listen” for anyone interested in the inner workings of one of the medical device industry's leading companies.

• Phalen discusses Boston Scientific's culture which is firmly rooted in a "patients first" philosophy—every decision within the company, from product development to marketing strategies, is made with the patient’s well-being as the foremost priority.

• Mike believes the PEOPLE made the difference. Sales representatives at Boston Scientific are leaders, have a seat at the table, and are trusted advisors to healthcare providers.

• The commitment to innovation is a core element in the BSC culture, starting with founders John Abele and Peter Nicholas. Phalen discusses how the company collaborates closely with inventors and physicians to identify unmet medical needs and develop solutions that enhance patient care.

• Beyond its external focus, Boston Scientific is equally committed to creating an inclusive and supportive work environment. They are committed to attracting and retaining top talent, fostering a diverse and innovative workforce.

• Listen to the Full Interview: Michael P. Phalen’s insights offer a rare glimpse into the values and practices that make Boston Scientific a standout in the medical device industry, and the reason former employees have celebrated three reunions!

Michale Phalen BIO:

Michael Phalen is the Board Chairman of RQR Advisors, an early-stage life science advisory firm.

Michael Phalen retired from Boston Scientific as Executive Vice President and President, Medical Surgery (MedSurg) for Boston Scientific and was a member of its Executive Committee. He planned and executed Boston Scientific’s growth strategies for the Company’s Endoscopy, Urology/Pelvic Health and Neuromodulation businesses. Phalen also oversaw Boston Scientific operations in Canada and Latin America. He was also responsible for Boston Scientific’s Government Affairs.

Prior to assuming his last position in January 2012, Mike was President of Boston Scientific International. He was responsible for planning and executing Boston Scientific’s international growth strategy.

Mike is the past Chairman of the Massachusetts Medical Device Industry Council (MassMEDIC) and serves on the Board of Directors for Advanced Medical Technology Association (AdvaMed).

Mike joined Boston Scientific in 1988 and held various management positions of increasing responsibilities including Territory Manager, Product Manager, Regional Sales Manager, Group Product Manager, Director of Marketing, Vice President of Global Marketing and Senior Vice President and President of the company’s Endoscopy division.

Before joining Boston Scientific, he held management positions with MD Technology, Kendall Healthcare and Pennwalt Pharmaceuticals. He earned a B.S. in General Science from Villanova University and an M.B.A. from Fairleigh Dickinson University.