Advertise on podcast: Ever Onward Podcast

Send us Fan Mail What happens when 15 years of hard work start paying off all at once? Tommy Ahlquist sits down with his longtime business partner and best friend, Ryan Cleverley, to talk about what they’re calling the busiest season of their careers—and why they believe the best is still ahead. From Micron’s massive investment in Idaho to major developments transforming the Treasure Valley, they share an inside look at Ahlquist’s next chapter, including updates on Peregrine, The District at Ten Mile, Heritage Square, 4th & Idaho, and more. But it’s not all business. Tommy and Ryan dive into leadership, work ethic, the growing role of AI, and what it really means to balance career success with family, faith, and the things that matter most. Plus, hear why Tommy almost shut down the podcast entirely—and how that decision led to something even bigger. Welcome to Kerosene, part of the Ahlquist podcast lineup alongside Ahlquist Blueprint, Dirt to Dollars, and Young Guns. In this episode: Why the Treasure Valley is entering a new era of growthThe projects and investments shaping Ahlquist’s futureLessons from 15 years of business partnershipWhy experience and wisdom still matter in the age of AIFinding balance during the busiest seasons of lifeWhat’s next for Kerosene and the Ahlquist podcast lineupSubscribe to Kerosene for conversations with the people, ideas, and experiences shaping business, leadership, and our communities. Follow Ahlquist on Social Media:  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE

Send us Fan Mail Miguel Villafaña’s story is a modern version of the American Dream. The son of Mexican immigrants and farmworkers, Miguel grew up working the fields of Aberdeen, Idaho. Today, he operates roughly 600 acres through Villafaña Farms while also working as a senior commercial lender at Zions Bank and raising four children with his wife. Miguel joins Matthew Rabe and Zach Miller to talk about building a farm from scratch, the work ethic and family values that shaped him, and the realities facing the next generation of American farmers. They dig into the rising cost of land, access to capital, financial pressure on farmers, raising kids on the farm, Idaho’s rapid growth, and the challenge of protecting agriculture while creating room for the next generation. At its core, this is a conversation about hard work, opportunity, family, and what it takes to build something of your own. Follow Ahlquist on Social Media:  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE

Send us Fan Mail Matt Dorsey, President of the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation and a fifth-generation Idaho farmer, joins Tommy Ahlquist and Zach Miller for a conversation about agriculture, heritage and the values that have shaped Idaho. From growing up in Sunny Slope and moving hand lines to representing farmers and ranchers across the state, Matt discusses the grit, independence, humility and community that come with a life in agriculture. They explore what it really means to “keep Idaho, Idaho,” what people without an agricultural background should understand about farming and ranching, and why generations of producers remain deeply invested in protecting the land they depend on. The conversation also looks toward the future, including precision agriculture, AI-powered equipment and the technology helping producers become more efficient than ever. It’s a conversation about farming—but even more about work, gratitude, community and the lessons agriculture can teach the next generation. Follow Ahlquist on Social Media:  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Ever Onward Podcast, Tommy Ahlquist sits down with Zach Miller, Executive Vice President and CEO of the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation and a fifth-generation Idaho farmer and rancher from eastern Idaho. Zach shares his background growing up in agriculture, his family’s farming and ranching operation, and the path that eventually led him to represent farmers and ranchers across the state through the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation. The conversation also looks at the Idaho Farm Bureau’s new Boise office near the State Capitol, why having a stronger presence in Boise matters, and the role the organization plays in giving Idaho agriculture a voice on major policy issues. From there, Tommy and Zach dive into some of the biggest challenges facing agriculture today, including Idaho’s water supply, aquifers, water rights and drought conditions; beef prices and the cattle cycle; public lands, grazing and multiple-use management; wolves, grizzly bears and the Endangered Species Act; and the ongoing challenges surrounding agricultural labor and immigration policy. Throughout the conversation, Zach brings both a policy perspective and firsthand experience from a family that has been farming and ranching in Idaho for five generations. They also discuss why agriculture remains such an important part of Idaho’s economy, culture and identity—and why decisions being made today around water, land, labor and regulation will have a lasting impact on the next generation of Idaho farmers and ranchers. This episode kicks off a three-part Ever Onward series focused on Idaho agriculture. Zach will join Tommy as co-host for upcoming conversations with Idaho Farm Bureau President Matt Dorsey and Miguel Villafana, owner-operator of Villafana Farms and a senior commercial lender at Zions Bank. Topics include: • Idaho Farm Bureau and its role in agriculture • Zach Miller’s fifth-generation farming and ranching roots • The new Idaho Farm Bureau Boise office • Idaho water rights, aquifers and drought • Snowpack and the future of Idaho’s water supply • Beef prices and the cattle cycle • Public lands, grazing and multiple-use management • Wolves, grizzly bears and predator management • Agricultural labor and immigration • The future of farming and ranching in Idaho Follow the Ever Onward Podcast for more conversations with leaders, entrepreneurs and people helping shape the future of Idaho. Follow Ahlquist on Social Media:  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Ever Onward, Tommy Ahlquist and Travis Hawkes sit down with Boise State Director of Athletics Jeremiah Dickey for a candid conversation about leadership, the future of college athletics, and the bold vision driving Boise State forward. Jeremiah reflects on his leadership philosophy, the importance of faith and family, and why his "What's Next" mindset has become the foundation for building one of the nation's most respected athletic departments. He also shares his perspective on the rapidly changing landscape of college sports, including NIL, revenue sharing, conference realignment, and the challenges facing universities across the country. The conversation explores how Boise State is preparing for the future through strategic investments, innovative revenue opportunities, facility expansion, and stronger partnerships across Idaho. Jeremiah also discusses the impact Boise State Athletics has on the state's economy, community, and national reputation. They also discuss: The future of NIL and college athleticsBoise State's long-term vision and strategic growthWhy athletics is the "front porch" of IdahoThe North End Zone project and future campus developmentBuilding a championship culture through leadershipFaith, family, and staying present despite a demanding careerWhy Boise State's best days are still aheadWhether you're a Bronco fan, business leader, student, or someone interested in leadership and organizational growth, this episode offers an inspiring look at what it takes to lead through uncertainty while keeping people at the center of every decision. 🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more conversations with the leaders shaping Idaho's future and beyond. Follow Ahlquist on Social Media:  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Ever Onward, Tommy Ahlquist and Travis Hawkes sit down with entrepreneur and AI founder Aaron Klein to discuss what it really takes to build a successful company, create a strong culture, and lead through constant change. Aaron shares his journey from working in his father's business to building Riskalyze into one of the financial industry's leading technology companies, achieving more than 42 consecutive quarters of growth before its acquisition. He reflects on the lessons learned through failure, hiring, leadership, and scaling a business while staying true to a mission-driven culture. The conversation then turns to artificial intelligence and why Aaron believes AI should strengthen human relationships—not replace them. As the founder of Contio, he explains how AI can eliminate repetitive work, improve collaboration, and help professionals spend more time doing what matters most. They also discuss: Building and scaling a startup from the ground upCreating a values-driven company cultureHiring great leaders and avoiding common mistakesIdaho's growing technology ecosystemThe future of AI and the workforceWhy entrepreneurs should focus on the craft—not just the exitWhether you're a business owner, entrepreneur, technology leader, or simply curious about where AI is headed, this episode offers practical insights and a refreshing perspective on building impactful companies. 🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more conversations with the leaders shaping Idaho's future and beyond. Follow Ahlquist on Social Media:  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Ever Onward, Tommy Ahlquist and Travis Hawkes sit down with Eric Sonner, founder and CEO of Data Airflow, to explore one of the fastest-growing industries in the world: AI data centers. Eric shares his remarkable journey from growing up on a farm in Buhl, Idaho, to becoming an Entrepreneur of the Year finalist while building one of the nation's leading engineering firms serving AI and high-performance computing facilities. Along the way, he explains how his early work solving cooling challenges for Bitcoin mining evolved into designing next-generation infrastructure powering artificial intelligence across the United States. The conversation tackles many of the biggest misconceptions surrounding AI data centers, including water consumption, energy demands, economic impact, and why the United States is racing to build the infrastructure needed to stay competitive. They also discuss: How AI data centers actually workThe truth about water usage and cooling systemsAmerica's growing power generation challengeNuclear, natural gas, and the future of energyWhy AI infrastructure is a matter of national securityIdaho's role in the future of technologyLeadership lessons from building a company at rapid scaleThe importance of hiring great people and casting a compelling visionWhether you're interested in AI, entrepreneurship, energy, technology, or the future of America's economy, this episode offers an inside look at one of the most important industries shaping the next decade. 🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more conversations with the leaders shaping Idaho's future and beyond. Follow Ahlquist on Social Media:  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Ever Onward, Tommy Ahlquist sits down with entrepreneur, investor, and Capital Eleven founder Travis Hawkes to discuss the future of Idaho's innovation economy, venture capital, entrepreneurship, and what it takes to build companies that create lasting impact. Travis shares the story behind Capital Eleven, why he believes Idaho is uniquely positioned to become one of the nation's leading technology hubs, and how venture-backed companies can create the next generation of high-paying jobs. He also reflects on lessons learned from his father, Bill Hawkes, whose legacy of hard work, humility, and service continues to shape his approach to business and leadership. The conversation explores what investors look for in founders, why grit matters more than almost anything else, and how entrepreneurs can navigate failure, pivots, and the realities of building a company from the ground up. They also discuss: Why Idaho is becoming an emerging technology ecosystemHow Capital Eleven has invested in more than 90 startupsThe traits of successful founders and entrepreneursVenture capital, fundraising, and building unicorn companiesWhy company culture and mentorship matterThe impact AI will have on startups and innovationCreating the next generation of Idaho's high-paying jobsWhether you're an entrepreneur, investor, business leader, or simply interested in the future of Idaho's economy, this episode offers valuable insights into leadership, innovation, and building companies that make a lasting difference. 🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more conversations with the leaders shaping Idaho's future and beyond. Follow Ahlquist on Social Media:  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE

Send us Fan Mail What does it take to prepare the next generation of engineers, innovators, and technology leaders? On this episode of the Ever Onward Podcast, Tommy sits down with Dr. Amy Fleischer, Dean of the College of Engineering at Boise State University, for a fascinating conversation about Idaho’s rapidly growing technology ecosystem and the critical role engineering will play in shaping the state’s future. From Micron’s expansion and the rise of artificial intelligence to semiconductor manufacturing, data centers, workforce development, and Boise State’s growing impact, Dr. Fleischer shares why Idaho is uniquely positioned to become a national leader in engineering and innovation. She also tells her remarkable personal story—from an eighth grader writing letters to NASA contractors because she wanted to build spaceships, to becoming an internationally recognized mechanical engineer and one of the nation’s leading engineering educators. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why engineering and the skilled trades both matter • How AI is changing education and the workforce • The future of data centers and semiconductor technology • Why Boise State is expanding engineering and AI programs • Idaho’s partnership with Micron, INL, and leading technology companies • The importance of critical thinking in the age of AI • How Boise State is preparing students for the jobs of tomorrow Whether you’re a student, parent, business leader, educator, or simply curious about where technology is headed, this conversation offers an inspiring look at the future of Idaho and the opportunities being created for the next generation.  Follow Ahlquist on Social Media:  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE

Send us Fan Mail What if every Idaho taxpayer could see exactly where public money is being spent? On this episode of the Ever Onward Podcast, Tommy Ahlquist sits down with Brandon Woolf, Idaho State Controller, to discuss the groundbreaking work behind Transparent Idaho—the online platform that gives citizens unprecedented access to state and local government finances. Brandon shares how a commitment to transparency has guided his leadership since taking office, why building trust in government matters more than ever, and how technology and AI are helping make public information more accessible and meaningful for Idahoans. The conversation also goes beyond government. Brandon reflects on growing up on a dairy farm in Preston, the real-life inspiration behind Napoleon Dynamite, lessons learned from family and hard work, leadership, serving others, and why Idaho’s future remains incredibly bright. In this episode, you’ll hear about: • Transparent Idaho and government accountability • Where Idaho tax dollars go • Public payroll, budgets, and financial reporting • AI and the future of state government • Leadership, culture, and servant leadership • Idaho’s Endowment Lands and natural resources • Work ethic, family, and growing up in Preston • Why optimism still matters in Idaho Whether you’re interested in Idaho politics, government transparency, leadership, technology, or simply want to better understand how your state operates, this is a conversation every Idahoan should hear. Explore Transparent Idaho for yourself at Transparent.Idaho.gov⁠ and discover where your tax dollars are being spent. Follow Ahlquist on Social Media:  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE

Send us Fan Mail What does it really take to serve in public office? In this episode of Ever Onward, Tommy Ahlquist sits down with Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane for an honest and wide-ranging conversation about leadership, election integrity, public service, family, and the personal sacrifices that often come with serving others. As Idaho’s 28th Secretary of State, Phil McGrane oversees elections, business registrations, campaign finance reporting, and official state records. He shares how his office is working to modernize voter services through VoteIdaho.gov, improve election transparency, strengthen election security, and build public trust in Idaho’s election process. The conversation goes beyond policy. Phil opens up about the realities of campaigning, the emotional toll of running for office, balancing leadership with family life, navigating criticism, and why resilient, principled leaders are still needed in government today. Tommy and Phil also reflect on the lasting leadership legacy of former Idaho Governor Dirk Kempthorne, the importance of mentorship, building strong teams, and why they remain optimistic about Idaho, America, and the next generation of public servants. Whether you’re interested in Idaho politics, leadership, elections, government, or simply hearing an authentic conversation about service and purpose, this episode offers valuable insights for leaders in every field. In this episode: Phil McGrane’s path to becoming Idaho Secretary of StateElection integrity, security, and transparencyModernizing Idaho’s elections and voter servicesLeadership lessons from public serviceTeam building and organizational cultureThe personal cost of campaigningFamily, resilience, and overcoming adversityMentorship and the legacy of Dirk KempthorneWhy good people should still consider public officeHope for Idaho’s future and America’s futureAbout Ever Onward Ever Onward is hosted by Tommy Ahlquist and features conversations with leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators, public servants, and changemakers who are building stronger communities and creating lasting impact throughout Idaho and beyond. Follow Ahlquist on Social Media:  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE

Send us Fan Mail Housing affordability has become one of the most important issues facing Idaho families, communities, and the state’s future. In Episode 130 of Ever Onward, Tommy Ahlquist sits down with housing advocate, former Idaho legislator, and Executive Director of Gem State Housing Alliance, Ali Rabe, for a candid conversation about why housing costs keep rising across Idaho—and what can be done about it. Together, they explore the connection between housing affordability and homelessness, the challenges facing working families, the impact of population growth, local regulations, infrastructure, housing supply, and the policies shaping Idaho’s future. Ali shares lessons from her time in the legislature, her work at Jesse Tree, and her vision for creating more housing opportunities throughout the state. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, business leader, policymaker, or simply someone who cares about Idaho’s future, this episode offers valuable insight into one of the biggest challenges facing our communities today. Topics include: • Housing affordability in Idaho • Homelessness prevention and housing stability • Housing supply and development challenges • Local zoning and regulatory barriers • Growth, infrastructure, and community planning • The future of housing policy in Idaho Learn more about Gem State Housing Alliance: gemstatehousing.org #EverOnwardPodcast #IdahoHousing #HousingAffordability #AliRabe #IdahoGrowth #HousingPolicy #GemStateHousingAlliance Follow Ahlquist on Social Media:  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE

Send us Fan Mail Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in America, yet much of it is preventable. In this episode of Ever Onward, Tommy Ahlquist sits down with Dr. Danny Noonan, cardiologist, electrophysiologist, and co-founder of High Desert Heart & Vascular, for an eye-opening conversation about the future of medicine, cardiovascular health, and what patients should be doing long before symptoms appear. Dr. Noonan shares his journey from launching an independent cardiology practice to helping patients take a more proactive approach to their health. Together, Tommy and Danny discuss the importance of patient-centered care, the growing role of AI in healthcare, advanced screening tools like calcium scoring and CT angiograms, and why exercise may be the most powerful medicine available. They also dive into nutrition, VO2 max, longevity, prevention strategies, healthcare costs, and the simple habits that can dramatically improve quality of life and long-term health. Whether you’re focused on optimizing your health, preventing disease, or simply understanding the rapidly changing world of medicine, this episode is packed with practical insights and actionable takeaways. Learn more about High Desert Heart & Vascular at highdesertheart.com. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could benefit from the conversation. Follow Ahlquist on Social Media:  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE

Send us Fan Mail As technology continues to reshape nearly every industry, one question becomes increasingly important: What remains uniquely human? In this episode of Ever Onward, Tommy Ahlquist is joined by John Drake, President of Drake Cooper, and Mae Myers of Pivot North Architecture for a wide-ranging conversation on creativity, architecture, design, branding, leadership, and the future of work in an increasingly automated world. Mae shares her journey into the design profession, from growing up in a creative household to spending more than two decades helping shape spaces that influence how people live, work, heal, and connect. The discussion explores the often-overlooked science behind great design—from natural light and color psychology to acoustics, materials, accessibility, and biophilic elements that can impact mood, productivity, and well-being. The group also dives into the role physical spaces play in company culture, employee experience, recruiting, retention, and brand identity. Whether it's a healthcare facility, office environment, hospitality space, or community gathering place, thoughtful design has the power to shape behavior and create meaningful human experiences. A major theme throughout the episode is the rapid rise of artificial intelligence and how creative professionals are learning to embrace it without losing the human element that makes great work possible. Mae and John discuss how AI is transforming workflows, accelerating ideation, improving visualization, and helping creative teams move faster than ever before. At the same time, they explore the risks of over-reliance on technology and the importance of maintaining craft, curiosity, expertise, and creative judgment. The conversation also touches on architecture, branding, workplace environments, creative leadership, mentorship, design education, and the evolving skills that will define the next generation of professionals. As tools become more powerful and automation becomes more common, creativity, vision, and the ability to connect with people may become even more valuable. Throughout the episode, John shares lessons from decades in the advertising and branding industry, including the importance of clarity, storytelling, and creating a shared vision that aligns teams and organizations. Together, the group reflects on how some of the most successful businesses, brands, buildings, and experiences are born at the intersection of creativity and strategy. Whether you're a business owner, architect, designer, marketer, developer, entrepreneur, leader, or someone simply interested in the future of creativity, this conversation offers practical insights and thought-provoking perspectives on how to continue building for humans in an automated world. Topics include: • Creativity in business and leadership • Architecture and interior design • Workplace culture and employee experience • The science of light, color, and space • Branding and organizational identity • AI and the future of creative professions • Human-centered design • Innovation and technology • Creative problem solving • Vision, culture, and leadership Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend. It helps us continue bringing great conversations to the Ever Onward audience. Follow Ahlquist on Social Media:  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE

Send us Fan Mail As AI rapidly transforms the way we work, create, and communicate, what remains uniquely human? In this episode of Ever Onward, Tommy Ahlquist sits down with John Drake, President of Drake Cooper, and James Beard Award-winning chef Kris Komori, co-owner of KIN and Art Haus Bar, for a conversation about creativity, branding, hospitality, and the human experiences technology can’t replace. Together, they explore why creativity is becoming one of the most valuable skills in the modern workplace, how great brands are built through authenticity and attention to detail, and why meaningful experiences continue to matter in an increasingly automated world. John shares lessons from 30 years in advertising and branding, while Kris offers a unique perspective on culinary creativity, hospitality, and creating unforgettable moments through food. The discussion also touches on AI, entrepreneurship, resilience, criticism, curiosity, and the importance of human connection in both business and life. Whether you’re a business owner, creative professional, entrepreneur, or simply someone interested in where our world is headed, this episode offers valuable insights into what it means to stay creative, authentic, and human. In this episode: • Why creativity is becoming a critical skill in the age of AI • The intersection of art, business, and commerce • How great brands are built and remembered • Hospitality as a form of human connection • The role of curiosity in fueling creativity • Learning through failure and creative risk-taking • Building experiences people can’t get anywhere else • Why authenticity matters more than ever Guest Links: John Drake & Drake Cooper: https://www.drakecooper.com Kris Komori & KIN: https://www.kinboise.com If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who believes creativity and human connection still matter. Follow Ahlquist on Social Media:  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE