With diverse and extensive experience in business management, education and human resources, Fred Kusch knows the importance of humor and balancing life with work – making him a highly sought business coach, keynote speaker, workshop and seminar presenter.

With a B.A. from the University of Minnesota and an M.S. in educational administration and leadership from Northern Illinois University, Fred began his career as a professional educator and school administrator. Having taught students from elementary through graduate school and having served in numerous leadership capacities, Fred was repeatedly recognized for his contributions to both students and colleagues.

In 1986, Fred became director of Human Resources for Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center. In a time of unparalleled change and upheaval in the healthcare industry, he was responsible for the educational leadership and professional growth and development of the 6,000 clinical and non-clinical staff of the Medical Center.

Seeking a proactive approach to addressing the needs of the Medical Center’s highly taxed and highly stressed workers, Fred developed The Gundersen Lutheran Leadership Development Institute, a leadership and organizational development training program earning the Saratoga Institute’s “Best Practice Recognition” and acclaim in the prestigious British Health Manpower Management Journal. He also led the development of comprehensive community education programming, including weekly community health-related programs, monthly symposia and annual conferences and drawing more than 40,000 participants each year.

Today, Fred serves as president of JFK Associates, Inc., an international consulting firm, which he founded in 1980. His philosophies, innovation and personal approach have inspired audiences throughout the United States as well as in England, Russia and Scotland. Using many stories and focusing on the person, Fred inspires attendees to reflect and develop new viewpoints along with new resolve. He leads participants to laugh, cry and think, and consistently ranks as a favorite presenter with general business, healthcare and education audiences alike.

Fred practices what he preaches, balancing JFK Associates with family life. He and his wife and professional partner Janet Kusch have raised three children–an experience Fred calls the ultimate life-work balancing act.