In this episode of Ethics: Walk the Talk, host Blake Peterson steps up to the plate with executive coach and longtime leader Mark Mathia for a conversation about what it really means to lead with purpose. Mark reflects on his journey to becoming one of Omaha’s go-to executive coaches and helping leaders discover the playbook already inside them.

The conversation dives into the ethical foundations of coaching, the difference between coaching, mentoring, and consulting, and how leaders can align values, strategy, and energy to combat burnout and build enduring organizations.

Mathia and Peterson also discuss the growing role of AI and leverage in business, the importance of coaching ethics and confidentiality, and how legacy-focused leadership can create sustainable value beyond the founder. The episode closes with a reflection on “surface vs. sacred” leadership—how going deeper with people transforms workplaces into meaningful, ethical communities.

A look at leadership and the future on this episode, brought to you by the Business Ethics Alliance.

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In our current modern times, Corporate social responsibility goes beyond buzzword, into an expectation. In this episode of Ethics Walk the Talk, host Blake Peterson welcomes Teresa Mardensen, Executive Director of Share Omaha, for a powerful conversation on what it really means for companies to “do good” in today’s world. Together, they explore the evolving role of corporate social responsibility (CSR). Teresa shares her journey from a career in marketing and communications to leading community engagement efforts, bringing real impact to businesses and nonprofits alike.

The journey along her path from corporate communications into purpose-driven community engagement, offering practical insights on how businesses can go beyond slogans to authentically give back. From employee volunteer programs to structured giving initiatives, she reveals what works, what doesn’t, and why community impact must be more than a checkbox.

In today’s business culture, CSR is no longer optional, Teresa shows how companies can authentically embed community involvement into their culture, and empower initiatives like Giving Tuesday — a global day of generosity — to rally collective action. And how Share Omaha has localized it to inspire over $22 million in donations for nonprofits across the metro in just six years. Teresa explains how even a $25 gift can create a ripple effect, touching issues like food insecurity, transportation, and employment.

Whether you’re a business leader, nonprofit advocate, or community-minded listener, if you care about purpose, people, and the future of ethical business, this conversation will spark ideas you can take back to your company. Brought to you by the Business Ethics Alliance.

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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.

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