What does it take to transform innovation from buzzword to impact? Michael Johnson, PhD, has built his career around bridging the gap between ideas and execution across biotech, business, and fatherhood.

In this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal podcast, J. Michael Fischer Jr. dives deep into Michael’s remarkable career path—from his early days in a Rutgers lab to building and selling a drug discovery company, and now leading one of New Jersey’s top innovation engines. Michael opens up about raising capital against the odds, recognizing when to sell in a bubble, and why consistency in fitness is a direct reflection of success in business.

If you’re an entrepreneur, a father, or someone building something from scratch, this episode will challenge your thinking, inspire action, and leave you with practical tools to level up in life and leadership.

Also, if you've enjoyed this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!

Enjoy!

In This Episode You'll Learn:

• Why biotech entrepreneurship is a completely different ballgame than tech startups
• What led Michael to sell his company at the top, despite his board’s resistance
• How NJII is connecting higher ed with real-world innovation in AI, defense, and healthcare
• What makes ”1% Dad” more than just another fitness book for fathers
• The three essential habits Michael believes drive long-term health and leadership success
• Why most people don’t seek mentorship—and how to be the exception
• The core question every aspiring founder needs to ask before jumping in
• And much more…

Guest Bio:

Dr. Michael Johnson is the President of the New Jersey Innovation Institute (NJII), a former biotech founder, and author of the book ”1% Dad”. With a PhD in Environmental Sciences and real-world experience taking a biotech company from lab bench to acquisition, Michael brings a unique blend of scientific rigor, entrepreneurial grit, and operational leadership to everything he does. A recognized voice in the conversation around fatherhood, discipline, and high performance, Michael is also a seasoned CEO and father of two who teaches men how to win in all areas of life without compromise.

Resources:

Connect with Michael on LinkedIn

DBD Investment Bank

1% Dad

Connect with Dr. Michael on LinkedIn

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Going Beyond the Deal podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

Ever wonder what it takes to keep clean water flowing to millions of homes—day after day, year after year? For Zach Kuehne, it’s more than a job. It’s a family legacy spanning over a century. As the president of the Kuehne Company, Zach is on a mission to modernize one of the oldest and most vital services in the world: water disinfection.

In this episode of Going Beyond the Deal, host J. Michael Fischer Jr. sits down with Zach to explore the fascinating story of a third-generation family business in chemical manufacturing. From humble beginnings in a basement bathtub to innovating the next generation of ultra-pure bleach, Zach shares a refreshingly candid take on legacy, leadership, and sustainability.

This is not just a story about chlorine—it’s about responsibility, reinvention, and redefining what it means to lead a century-old business into the future.

If you've enjoyed this episode of the Beyond the Deal podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!

Enjoy!

Key takeaways:

• How Zach’s rural upbringing shaped his values and leadership approach
• Why his father insisted he work outside the family business before joining it
• How the advanced bleach manufacturing process serves over 36 million Americans
• What makes Paragon Ultra-Pure Bleach different—and why it matters
• How sustainability and efficiency drive Kuehne Company’s mission and operations
• How Zach is transforming a legacy business with modern tools and a culture of continuous improvement
• The small decision that changed the course of Zach’s life and career
• And much more…

Guest Bio:

Zach Kuehne is the President of the Kuehne Company, a third-generation, family-owned chemical manufacturing business. With a background in entrepreneurship and a hands-on approach to leadership, Zach has played a pivotal role in modernizing operations, improving sustainability, and expanding the company’s reach in servicing municipal water systems. His mission is to bridge the old with the new—preserving legacy while driving innovation.

Resources:

Connect with Michael on LinkedIn

DBD Investment Bank

Connect with Zach on LinkedIn

KuehneCompany.com

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Going Beyond the Deal podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

How can business owners thrive in a tech-driven world without losing human connection?

In this episode of Going Beyond the Deal podcast, J. Michael Fischer Jr. sits down with executive and cybersecurity expert Darek Hahn for an eye-opening conversation about navigating business growth, technology, and authentic leadership. Far from a typical tech talk, this episode focuses on how genuine relationships and intentional leadership can transform both company culture and security practices.

Darek shares lessons from his journey as CEO of AffinIT, a company redefining the relationship between people and technology. Together, they explore why too many small businesses plateau, how to stay ahead of technological changes like AI, and why true leadership means giving up control and fostering collaboration.

If you've enjoyed this episode of Going Beyond the Deal podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!

Enjoy!

In This Episode You'll Learn:

• How leading with vulnerability can unlock business growth
• What makes a cybersecurity strategy actually effective
• Why building real relationships in tech is a game-changer
• What to know about AI risk—and how to prepare your company
• Why many IT decisions fail without external accountability
• How detachment in work culture leads to poor outcomes
• The role of personal mission and structure in great leadership
• And much more…

Guest Bio:

Darek Hahn is the CEO of AffinIT and an executive mentor, speaker, and soon-to-be author. With decades of experience in IT and leadership, Darek is known for helping organizations scale with intentional structure, genuine connection, and a people-first mindset. He’s built a career on trust, values, and resilience—guiding companies toward secure, strategic, and sustainable success.

Resources:

AffinITmsp.com

Connect with Darek on LinkedIn

Connect with Michael on LinkedIn

DBD Investment Bank

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Going Beyond the Deal podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.