The Cap Times Power Hour, a quarterly executive series, features one-on-one, future-focused conversations with Wisconsin’s top leaders discussing business in our state.

3:30 P.M. / Check-In & Hors d'Oeuvres

5 P.M. / Discussion

Don Fussner

Chief Executive Officer | Johnsonville

Don Fussner is a seasoned executive with more than 30 years of experience in consumer-packaged goods manufacturing, including 16 years in the meat industry. Currently serving as CEO of Johnsonville, Fussner’s career is distinguished by progressive leadership roles and transformative initiatives at renowned companies such as Nabisco, Oscar Mayer, Kraft/Heinz, and now Johnsonville.

Fussner began his career balancing full-time college studies, sales roles at Coca-Cola, and accounting responsibilities at Caesar’s Atlantic City Casino, demonstrating early resilience and a strong work ethic. He quickly advanced through operations and finance roles at Nabisco, where he led plant turnarounds, implemented financial systems, and managed major brand portfolios.

His leadership in contract manufacturing and integration was pivotal during the merger between Nabisco and Kraft, during which time he managed a $2 billion cost base and drove operational excellence through SAP and Lean Six Sigma initiatives.

At Kraft/Heinz, Fussner held executive positions including CFO for Food Service and Oscar Mayer; and later, President and General Manager of Oscar Mayer. He spearheaded strategic transformations, including the Kraft and Mondelez split, Kraft Foods integration into Kraft/Heinz, major manufacturing footprint projects, and the launch of innovative products that delivered significant sales and EBITDA growth.

Joining Johnsonville in 2019 as CFO, Fussner advanced to COO and, in 2024, CEO. His tenure is marked by strategic cost transformation, acquisitions, integrated business planning, operational excellence, and a company-wide culture refresh. Throughout his career, Fussner has been recognized for his ability to lead through complexity, deliver results, and foster a culture of operational excellence and innovation.

Fussner is married to his best friend Julie, who happens to be the CEO of Culver’s and the CEO of the Fussner household. Together, they have five boys and three grandchildren. They live in Waunakee and Kohler, Wisconsin.

Julie Fussner

Chief Executive Officer | Culver Franchising System, LLC

Julie Fussner is the first woman to serve as Chief Executive Officer of Culver Franchising System, LLC, the franchisor of over 1,000 Culver’s restaurants across 26 states. Her appointment in 2025 marked a historic milestone for the brand and reflected her exceptional leadership, strategic insight, and deep commitment to Culver’s mission of genuine care.

Julie joined Culver’s in 2017 as Vice President of Marketing, bringing nearly two decades of experience in food consumer packaged goods, including leadership roles at Kraft Foods. Her ability to translate consumer insights into impactful brand strategies quickly elevated Culver’s national presence and deepened its emotional connection with guests.

In recognition of her transformative impact, Julie was named Culver’s first Chief Marketing Officer in 2021. In this role, she led initiatives that strengthened brand loyalty, enhanced the guest experience, and fostered a culture of innovation and excellence across the organization.

Throughout her career, Julie has demonstrated a unique ability to understand what drives people—how they feed themselves and their families, and what they value in a brand. Her leadership style is rooted in authenticity, integrity, and a passion for people. As CEO, she continues to champion Culver’s values of Midwest hospitality and purposeful growth, guiding the brand into its next chapter with bold vision and heartfelt care.

Outside of Culver’s, Julie also holds the title of CEO of her household. She is married to Don Fussner, fellow Wisconsin CEO of Johnsonville. Together, they’ve built a life in Waunakee and Kohler, WI, raising five boys and celebrating the joy of three grandchildren. Her leadership at home mirrors her leadership at work – rooted in care, collaboration and purpose.

Moderator: Mark Richardson, president of Unfinished Business Consulting and CEO of GigBlender.

Mark has spent the past 10 years helping professionals transition in their careers and organizations attract and acquire talent of color.

Join us for an enriching evening of connection, collaboration, and community impact at our Magnet Community Exchange. This gathering brings together Madison Magnet Members and Alumni with a selected group of nonprofit, organizational, and business leaders from across the Madison area.

We’ll begin with a short introduction to Madison Magnet and a warm welcome to our community leader guests. From there, the evening opens into meaningful networking — a chance to learn about local missions, explore volunteer and board opportunities, expand your professional network, and discover ways to get involved in shaping Madison’s future.

Why Attend:

• Connect directly with community leaders seeking fresh ideas and emerging talent

• Explore volunteer, committee, and board pathways

• Strengthen your professional network with purpose-driven peers

• Represent Magnet and help build long-term community relationships

Evening Flow:

5:30 PM – Arrival & casual mingling

5:45 PM – Welcome + introduction to Magnet

6:00–7:00 PM – Open networking with community leaders

We’re excited to bring together the people who make our community thrive — and we want you in the room.

Join us in support of WayForward Resources at their Middleton distribution center! WayForward strives to bring our community together to create food and housing security through action and advocacy and they envision a community where everyone has the stability to thrive.

During the event we’ll be helping clean the food pantry, sort clothes, and other tasks as needed.

Parking is available on-site at 3504 Parmenter Street in Middleton behind our main office.

Enter the door marked "Food Pantry and Clothing Center."

Dress appropriately in comfortable, durable clothing and closed-toe shoes.

Consider bringing food items to donate from WayForward's Top 10 List 

Join us for a Madison Magnet Happy Hour as we welcome the arrival of spring. Come reconnect with familiar faces, meet someone new, and enjoy an easy evening of conversation and community. Whether you are catching up or making your first introduction, it is a perfect opportunity to relax, connect, and celebrate the season together.

Looking for a fun, low‑key way to spend your Tuesday evening? Join Magnet for Bingo Night at Working Draft Beer Company — a neighborhood favorite known for thoughtfully crafted beer and a welcoming, community‑driven vibe. Whether you’re a seasoned bingo pro or just in it for the beer and good company, this is a great way to relax, connect, and enjoy one of Madison’s most beloved taprooms.

We’re heading to the Veterans Memorial Coliseum to cheer on LOVB Madison as they face off against LOVB Houston from the comforts of a suite!

Experience the high-energy thrill of professional women's volleyball with Madison Magnet!

Whether you're a lifelong volleyball fan or just looking for a fun way to spend a Saturday night with the Magnet crew, this is the perfect chance to see the new league everyone is talking about.

When: Saturday, March 21, 2026 | Match starts at 6:00 PM

Where: Veterans Memorial Coliseum at the Alliant Energy Center

Magnet Member Price: Only $5!

Grab your tickets by Monday, March 16 to secure your seat in the suite with Magnet! Food and drinks will be provided.

Join us in support of WayForward Resources at their Middleton distribution center! WayForward strives to bring our community together to create food and housing security through action and advocacy and they envision a community where everyone has the stability to thrive.

During the event we’ll be helping clean the food pantry, sort clothes, and other tasks as needed.

Parking is available on-site at 3504 Parmenter Street in Middleton behind our main office.

Enter the door marked "Food Pantry and Clothing Center."

Dress appropriately in comfortable, durable clothing and closed-toe shoes.

Consider bringing food items to donate from WayForward's Top 10 List 

Are you new to Magnet or considering joining? Do you want to meet more people?

Whether you are new to Magnet or have been a member for years, we invite you to join us at our Magnet Coffee Meetup!

Meet us at Oasis Cafe in Fitchburg to network, talk all things Magnet, and answer any questions you may have. You don't want to miss this fun morning event.

Stop in for a comfortable evening of conversation and connection. We’ll have space to unwind, catch up with familiar faces, and meet a few new ones along the way. Happy Hours are an easy way to stay connected. Plus we get to enjoy one of the North Side’s standout spots.

The Madison Area Builders Association, Milwaukee Metro Builders Association, and NARI of Madison have come together to host BuildX, a conference focusing on empowering women in the construction industry.

View additional details and the full event schedule here: https://www.buildxwisconsin.com/

Please only register if you are committed to attending! There are a limited number of tickets for Magnet members, but an unlimited number after those tickets are claimed.

Registration closes on Thursday, February 26.

Looking for a fun way to kick off your week, test your knowledge, and meet some great people? Join Magnet for trivia night at Vintage Brewing Co. Capitol East!
Whether you’re a history buff, a pop-culture pro, or just here for the craft beer, this is the perfect way to connect and unwind.

🕖 Trivia starts promptly at 7:00 PM

Yoga Up (45 minutes) is an excellent opportunity to add something new to your yoga practice. This all-levels class will challenge, motivate and energize you. Yoga Up™ provides a full body workout that includes Sun Salutations, Cardio Training, Yoga Super Sets (yoga poses with and without weights, balances, core work, cardio blasts), Yin poses and Stretches. No two classes are alike, continuing to strengthen your mind and body. What to bring: Mat, towel, water (also available at the studio) Room temp: 95°

Magnet Members are eligible for a discounted class pack at Dragonfly Hot Yoga! https://www.dragonflyhotyoga.com/buy/discounts/

Join us in support of Habitat for Humanity at ReStore West! Habitat for Humanity envisions "A world where everyone has a decent place to live." According to Habitat, one in eight people in Dane County lives in poverty, including 16 percent of all Dane County children.

Their ReStores raise funds to support building and development of affordable housing for families in Dane County. During the event we'll be helping the West side ReStore team maintain and improve their space.

In addition to the Magnet signup, Habitat for Humanity has an additional signup link: https://vhub.at/afhocr. Please complete prior to the event. Any questions, let us know director@madisonmagnet.org.

Stop in for a comfortable evening of conversation and connection. We’ll have space to unwind, catch up with familiar faces, and meet a few new ones along the way. Happy Hours are an easy way to stay connected and enjoy one of the East Side’s standout spots.

A quarterly executive series featuring CEOs from around Wisconsin discussing various topics including: trends, expansion, acquisitions, workplace culture, community, recruitment, technology and more.

3:30 P.M. / Check-In & Hors d'Oeuvres
5 P.M. / Discussion

Featured Guest:
Telisa Yancy
Enterprise President of American Family Insurance

Telisa was named enterprise president in November 2022. In this role, she directs strategy and operations for product, marketing, claims and all business units for both the agency and direct sides of American Family Insurance Group companies which include American Family, Homesite, CONNECT powered by American Family and Main Street America.

Previously, Telisa served as president of American Family Direct since July 2021, with oversight of the organization’s direct-to-consumer companies – Homesite, The General and CONNECT. Prior to that role, she served as chief operating officer of American Family’s agency business from 2019, with primary accountability for the personal, commercial, and life lines of business, as well as the sales and claims operations.

Telisa joined American Family in 2009 as advertising director in the Marketing Division and was promoted to vice president of Marketing in 2013 and chief marketing officer in 2016. In her Marketing roles, Telisa oversaw all brand, customer and marketing activities for the company, including launching the award-winning “Dreams” campaign in 2011 and its numerous extensions. She also introduced the concept of inspirational brand ambassadors to serve as “dream champions.”

Prior to joining American Family, she served in sales, marketing and general-management leadership positions at several companies, including Ford Motor Company and Burger King.

Telisa is a graduate of the University of Illinois and earned an MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg Graduate School of Business. She currently serves on the board of Directors for the Deluxe Corporation, a payments and business services public company.

Tour local organizations with Madison Magnet! Join us for an introduction to various employers in our Madison community. This time we will be gathering at the long-awaited Madison Public Market to learn more about their vision and mission. The event will also include a walkthrough of the facility.

Bundle up and join Madison Magnet for a fun-filled afternoon of ice skating at Tenney Park! Connect with fellow young professionals while enjoying the beauty of Madison’s winter season. Whether you’re a skating pro or a beginner, come for the conversation, laughter, and hot cocoa. Registration includes ice skate rental. If you prefer to bring your own, feel free!

NOTE: If weather conditions don’t allow us to skate, we’ll notify registrants and either move the event to an indoor happy hour or reschedule for another date.

Centro’s annual Tres Reyes (Three Kings) Celebration is a cherished tradition that brings families together to honor culture, generosity, and unity. This year’s event will take place on Saturday, January 17, 2026, and we need your help to make it magical!

Join us as we roll up our sleeves to help Centro prepare for this beloved celebration!
Volunteers will assist with:

• Organizing and setting up event spaces

• Sorting and preparing toys for children

• Arranging items and decorations to create a warm, welcoming environment

As a bonus, you’ll get a tour of Centro’s beautiful new building and hear from one of their leaders about the incredible work they do in our community.

Young professionals are invited to unwind, connect, and start the new year strong inside Thrill Factory’s private suite, complete with reserved bowling lanes and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a simple, easy way to meet new people and spend time with a great group.

Thank you to our January Happy Hour Sponsor: City Cast Madison

The Charity Fete you know and love has been rebranded as the Magnet Fete! Join us for a night of fun and philanthropy with other young professionals in the Madison area. The Magnet Fete offers an opportunity to dress up, network, and have a fun time out. The Fete will feature a wine pull and a raffle with prizes including tickets to shows, gift cards, and other great items.

This year’s Fete is benefitting Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin. Second Harvest’s mission is to end hunger in southwestern Wisconsin. They do this by providing access to nutritious, affordable, and culturally meaningful food to those in need. Serving over 16 counties, Second Harvest plays a critical role in the community by ensuring that everyone has enough food to thrive.

You do not want to miss this fun and fabulous night!

Thanks to our Sponsors

Gold Sponsors - Steve Brown Apartments
Silver Sponsors - The Employer Group, Madison Minutes, Forvis Mazars LLP, The Capital Times
Bronze Sponsors - Baer Insurance, Living in Madison, Soha Diamonds, Balanced Minds Psychotherapy, Arden Property Group

Interested in being a sponsor? Click here.

Join us for an evening of food, friends, and gratitude at Madison Magnet’s Friendsgiving! We’ll provide delicious Thanksgiving sandwiches and sides, and you’re welcome to bring along your favorite dessert or holiday dish to share.

This is the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow members, celebrate the season, and enjoy a warm, community-centered meal together. Come hungry and ready to make memories!

Join us for Part 3 of our Rising Leader Series led by Jeff Lovell and Becky Rivest of Rising Leaders Network. This session is focused on exploring how trust, character, and credibility shape your influence, and how to build intentional relationships that lead to greater influence and impact. Dinner is provided!

Join us Thursday, November 6th at The Post Bar inside the Park Hotel on the Capitol Square. Come for the conversation, stay for the connections—all in one of downtown Madison’s most distinctive and welcoming settings.

The Cap Times Power Hour, a quarterly executive series, features one-on-one future-focused conversations with Wisconsin’s top CEOs discussing business in our state.

3:30 P.M. / Check-In & Hors d'oeuvres
5 P.M. / Discussion

Brian Raffel
Studio Head
Raven Software

Brian Raffel is the Studio Head of Raven Software, a premier development studio now part of Microsoft Gaming through its 2023 acquisition of Activision Blizzard. With more than three decades in game development and studio leadership, Brian has been at the forefront of creating and shaping some of the industry’s most iconic titles.

Brian co-founded Raven Software in 1990 with his brother Steve, quickly earning acclaim with groundbreaking titles such as Heretic, Hexen, and Soldier of Fortune. In 1997, Raven was acquired by Activision, a partnership that positioned the studio to become a key contributor to globally recognized franchises. Today, Raven plays a central role in the ongoing success of Call of Duty, particularly with the evolution of Call of Duty: Warzone, the free-to-play battle royale that has captivated millions of players worldwide.

Over the years, Brian has guided Raven’s growth into a studio renowned for its creativity, technical expertise, and collaborative spirit. His leadership has ensured Raven’s enduring influence within the Activision portfolio, and now as part of Microsoft Gaming’s global development network.

Moderator: Mark Richardson, president of Unfinished Business Consulting and CEO of GigBlender.

Mark has spent the past 10 years helping professionals transition in their careers and organizations attract and acquire talent of color.

Join us at Babies and Beyond as we help sort clothes, bundle new diapers, and restock clothes and childcare equipment.

Babies and Beyond is a community resource which supports local families through stages of pregnancy and early childhood with care packages of key supplies and resources.

A gathering of purpose-driven leaders shaping the future of Wisconsin.

Join Madison 365 for a day of shared learning, connection, and strategy. The 365 Leadership Summit, brought to you by UW Credit Union, brings together leaders from across Wisconsin to reimagine leadership, expand opportunity and strategically shape a more impactful future — together.

Whether you are a current leader, a future leader, or an emerging leader, the Summit’s session tracks offer opportunities to learn, connect, and grow. From bold ideas and practical tools to resilience and pathways of opportunity, these panels and workshops are designed to strengthen leadership and spark impact across Wisconsin.

Enjoy refreshing mocktails while we have a few of our Lands’ End Young Professionals guide us through product throughout the store. In support of the One Warm Coat drive currently being hosted at the store, we encourage attendees to bring a gently used coat or jacket to donate, if possible.

Join us for Part 2 of our Rising Leader Series led by Jeff Lovell and Becky Rivest of Leaders Rising Network. This session is focused on developing a deeper self-awareness and uncovering patterns that affect how you lead, communicate, and respond under stress. Dinner is provided!

Join Magnet for a spooky fun time as we head to Schuster's Farm in Deerfield for our Halloween inspired event! Help us find our way out of their corn maze and after we will meet up to chat, relax, and share ghost stories around the bonfire pit! Come join us for a great night you won't want to miss!

Join your fellow Magnet Members for our Fourth Madison Magnet Business Book Club. We will be reviewing and discussing the book; The ONE Thing by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan. Read the book in advance and come with your thoughts and questions! You can find it at most Public Libraries and online. Well meet at a the Leopold's Book Nook. See you there!