We Knew Before It Happened with Mike Schoenberger

Some moments in life don’t make sense… but they stay with you forever. In Episode 333 of The Business Development Podcast, Kelly Kennedy sits down with Mike Schoenberger, CEO of Sunco Communications, for a conversation that goes far beyond business strategy. Together, they explore two deeply personal experiences they’ve never fully been able to explain, moments where they both knew something had happened before they were ever told. What unfolds is a powerful discussion on human connection, intuition, and the unseen forces that shape how we lead, think, and show up in the world.

This episode also dives into Mike’s journey building a $20M company rooted in people, culture, and authenticity, and why the leaders who win today are the ones willing to be vulnerable, present, and real. From leading with love versus fear to embracing the uncomfortable moments that drive growth, this is a conversation that challenges traditional thinking and reminds us that business is built on something much deeper than strategy alone.

Key Takeaways:

1. The leaders who win are the ones who are willing to be real, vulnerable, and fully seen by their teams.
2. Human connection is the foundation of business, not strategy, systems, or processes.
3. The most powerful growth often comes from moments you cannot explain but choose to learn from.
4. Leading from love creates trust and performance, while leading from fear creates tension and limitation.
5. Failure is not the opposite of success, quitting is, and every setback is an opportunity to grow.
6. Initiative is everything, don’t wait to be told what to do, just start and adjust as you go.
7. The strongest cultures are built when people feel safe to be vulnerable and make mistakes.
8. Real leadership requires slowing down, becoming aware, and making intentional decisions instead of reacting.
9. The more connected you are to yourself, the more effectively you can connect with others.
10. Success is not just built on what you know, but on how you show up for people every single day.

🔗 Connect with Mike Schoenberger

🌐 Website: https://mikeschoenberger.com/

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-schoenberger/

🎸 Sponsor Shoutouts

The Business Development Podcast is proudly supported by Hypervac Technologies, Hyperfab, Thunder Bay Hydraulics Inc, and Atlas Elite Lifts. 🎸⭐

Hypervac Technologies is North America’s leader in hydrovac excavation, delivering safe, non-destructive solutions for critical infrastructure projects. If you work in construction, utilities, or industrial services, check them out at www.hypervac.com

Hyperfab, the fabrication division of Hypervac, delivers custom-built solutions engineered to handle the toughest demands in the field. Learn more at www.hyperfab.ca

Thunder Bay Hydraulics Inc has been a trusted name in hydraulic cylinder repair and manufacturing for over 55 years, supporting industries like mining, forestry, and construction across North America. Visit www.thunderbayhydraulics.com

Atlas Elite Lifts delivers premium automotive lift solutions built for performance, safety, and reliability. If you are looking to upgrade your shop, check them out at www.atlaselitelifts.com

If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to support these incredible companies who make conversations like this possible. 🎸⭐

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Mentioned in this episode:

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