ABOUT MIKE

I’m originally from the Chicagoland area (Aurora, Illinois — home of “Wayne’s World” for anyone who is old enough to remember that SNL skit/movie.) I moved to Minneapolis in 1984, telling my then fiancé (and now wife) that I thought we’d only be here two years and then we’d move back to Chicago. Well, 38 years, two kids, a granddaughter and a whole career later, my wife and I still live in Minnesota (except for October-April when we’re mostly in Miami Beach).

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

I worked at Fallon, an internationally renowned advertising, branding and communication company headquartered in Minneapolis, for 35+ years. I retired as Fallon’s Chairman in 2020, after about seven years in the CEO role. When people ask me what kind of jobs or experiences in my past prepared me for my career in advertising and marketing, I give them this answer: 1) I made money babysitting when I was a kid — this taught me how to take care of people and their issues, 2) I worked in my Dad’s bakery in junior high and high school — this taught me how run a business and take care of people and their issues and 3) To make extra money in college, I was a waiter at a local restaurant — this taught me all about customer service and how to take care of people and their issues. I’ve only worked at one company since then.

FINDING CROSSFIT & WHAT MADE IT STICK

I walked into the Excelsior gym about six years ago and never left. (Well, until I moved to Wayzata and now use all three SISU locations.) Pat, Thomas and their staff have created a great atmosphere for working out and their focus on community, service and excellence have made their culture special. That’s why I stay.

JOINING THE SISU LEADERSHIP ADVISORY

SISU gives a lot of time and attention to its members. I felt that I could give something back in return in joining the SLA.

The SISU Leadership Advisory is a great group with a diversity of talents, experiences and backgrounds, and everyone seems to have bought into Pat and Thomas’ vision for the future. The future looks bright for SISU as a result!

PROFESSIONAL & ATHLETIC CREDENTIALS

I have six years of doing CrossFit. I have an undergraduate degree from the University of Illinois and a Master’s degree from Northwestern University.

FAVORITE THING ABOUT SISU

Finishing a class.

FAVORITE CHEAT MEAL

Massive bowls of popcorn.