The Godfather of Connections: The Power of Showing Up, Serving First, and Shaking the Tree

What’s up, everybody?! Welcome back to another episode of Coffee & Grit — and you already know I’m fired up for this one!

It’s not every day I get to jam in the new studio with a three-time guest, a true friend, and one of the biggest difference makers I know — the Godfather of Connecting People, Steven Zyskowski, founder of Caerusnet Michigan.

Steve’s was back in Michigan last week from sunny Arizona for the annual Caerusnet Breakfast — and this year, I got the honor of emceeing the event. Let’s just say, when Steve’s in town, the energy shifts. The man is a master connector, facilitator, community builder, and culture curator — and in this conversation, we go deep.

From the power of shaking the tree for opportunity (instead of waiting for apples to fall in your lap), to the reason Caerusnet isn’t for everyone — Steve gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what it truly means to build a tribe of givers and difference makers.

We unpack stories of growth, comebacks, and what it takes to stay in the game when the entrepreneurial grind gets real.

This episode is a masterclass in building community, doing business with the right people, and refusing to play small.

So if you’ve ever struggled with imposter syndrome, questioned your value, or felt like giving up — this one’s for you. You’re closer than you think. Just keep shaking the damn tree.