Host Spotlight: Scott Wiyninger | Purpose Fueled Saint Paul
Scott Wiyninger found Purpose Fueled by watching his LinkedIn feed. He kept seeing people he respected showing up, so he showed up too, first as an attendee at Plymouth, then as a Community Champion, an Ambassador, a Special Guest, and now as a host in Saint Paul.
He’s a Licensed Business Broker and Executive Coach at Sunbelt Business Advisors. He’s also a classically trained pianist who used to tour with bands and now plays for one of the largest churches in Minnesota. Here’s Scott, in his own words.
When did you first walk through the door? What brought you here?
I first attended the Plymouth location as a networking event. I kept seeing the energy all over my LinkedIn and recognized that people I respected were engaged in this group.
What made you say yes to hosting? What was the moment you decided this was worth it?
I walk into every moment asking myself “how can I serve this room”. What I found at Purpose Fueled is a group of people who showed up the same way. In showing up, I became someone of a utility player – community champion one week, ambassador the next, guest the next, and ultimately host. I enjoy partnering each month with the special guests to weave their story with our own so we can share in their learning and apply it to our bold action for the month.
What’s your favorite moment you’ve witnessed in the room?
My favorite moment was after I was the special guest. I looked up after we were done and no one had moved…they were all deep in authentic conversation. Being there for each other and being vulnerable with each other. It was inspiring!
What’s one thing you’d tell someone who has never been to Purpose Fueled?
It is a place where people share authentically. Be willing to be vulnerable and watch the community cheer you on as you commit to bold actions together with them.
What’s your favorite part of being a host?
I love the moments I get to ask the questions that connect the group and the guest together. I love watching people nod or even tear up as a moment connects with them.
What do you want every single person who walks through the door to feel?
Seen. Important.
Why is your location the best location ever?
The St Paul location isn’t the best. That’s what’s great about Purpose Fueled. Every site is the best because it is all people who are committed to living out their purpose every day. That said…have you seen Dual Citizen?? What a beautiful location to have coffee and a conversation!
What are you most excited about for your location in the coming months?
The line up of speakers for this summer is like buying a greatest hits album. From Jessica Crooker in June to Todd Sondag (July), Joe Kessler (August), and more, it will be a fantastic summer!
What’s the title of your next chapter — in life or in business?
The Impact of the Margin. I have run fast for most of my career…leaving my family and friends in the dust. This season has been one of prioritizing margin and watching my relationships and impact bloom.
What don’t people know about you that they should?
I’m a professional musician. I started as a classically trained touring pianist. I played with a number of bands (most of which you have never heard of) and now (because I like to go to bed early and don’t like people spilling beer on my keyboard) I play for one of the largest churches in Minnesota.
How do your best friends, kids, or family describe you?
Professional. Caring. Empathetic. Leader.
Who are the types of people you really love meeting?
I really love meeting people who are committed to taking the next steps in their life, but need support or questions as they move forward.
Scott hosts Purpose Fueled Saint Paul at Dual Citizen. Conversations like this one happen every month at Purpose Fueled events across the Twin Cities. If you want to be in the room for the next one, reserve your spot here.