podcast episodes

Released November 15th, 2024

 What if the journey to a wedding became an epic tale of resilience and determination? Join us as we share the remarkable story of David Jones, the mastermind behind Excellence Advisory, who took us on a whirlwind journey—not only across state lines but through the stormy path of Hurricane Helene's aftermath. From his roots in Indiana to mastering the art of operational excellence with Pal's Sudden Service, David enlightens us with timeless business principles that transcend industries. His insights into achieving excellence are not just about business but about life's wider ambitions.  David's narrative takes an emotional turn as he battles nature’s chaos to reach his daughter's wedding, a testament to a father's boundless love. With roads washed out and conditions perilous, he recounts the resourceful and heart-wrenching journey, showing that love and family can conquer even the fiercest storms. As David navigates blocked highways and the possibility of not being there on his daughter's big day, he brings listeners on a gripping, inspiring adventure that underscores the power of human spirit and connection.  The heartwarming conclusion to David's journey—a symbolic wedding gift of a reflector—captures not just protection but a reflection of divine love. Through this touching gesture, David reminds us of the profound impact parents have on their children's lives. His story is a beacon of hope, resilience, and faith, resonating with families worldwide. Listen to this unforgettable episode where personal and professional excellence intertwines with a father's unwavering love and determination.  

David Jones- Website: https://theexcellenceadvisory.com/ 

LinkedIn:   / davidmjones   Instagram:   / davidjones328   Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
 

Released November 18th, 2024 

Eric VanVleet's story is one of resilience, transformation, and the pursuit of purpose. Picture a young boy moving from the bustling streets of New York to a quieter life in Richmond, facing the peculiar challenge of paying ransom for his gym clothes—a seemingly trivial event that sparked a lifelong passion for weightlifting. At 74, Eric still carries the humor and drive from those formative years, viewing life as a finite gift and urging us to seize every moment. This episode reveals Eric's introspective nature and how his high school football experience laid the groundwork for his strength and resilience.  The 1970s posed uncertainty for Eric as he navigated the Vietnam War draft and an ill-fitting stint in a do-it-yourself car repair shop. Guided by mentors like Dave Blackman and Bob Broscheid and supported by the Richmond YMCA community, Eric found his calling in the insurance industry, eventually founding Van Vliet Insurance at 31. His journey underscores the invaluable lessons of mentorship and learning from failure, illustrating how resilience can lead to true fulfillment and success.  Eric's story also celebrates the power of relationships in business and life. From managing a business to fostering family ties, he reflects on the growth that comes from stepping out of comfort zones. With inspiration from figures like Elon Musk, Eric navigates his personal and professional legacy, sharing heartfelt memories of his father's transformation and their evolving relationship. This episode is a touching tribute to friendship, mentorship, and the bonds that extend beyond business into enduring family relationships. Join us as we celebrate Eric's inspiring journey and the life lessons he's gathered along the way. 

https://www.vanvleetinsurance.com/

 Released November 1st, 2024

How do small-town values hold up in today's fast-paced, tech-driven world? This episode of BeTempered uncovers the essence of community pride and the vital role of mentorship amidst a politically charged environment. As we brace for the upcoming election, we remind ourselves of the power of unity, advocating for meaningful dialogues that transcend political divides. Our conversation touches on the significance of supporting local initiatives, like the school levy, that directly shape our children's future. We passionately argue that real change stems from individual actions and contributions to community well-being, rather than relying solely on political figures.  Dan and Ben share their insights into maintaining a strong community presence through quality products and a commitment to customer satisfaction. We explore how the simple actions of acknowledging neighbors and engaging in communal traditions can reignite a sense of belonging and responsibility. This episode invites you to reflect on how you can actively contribute to a cohesive and thriving society, embracing the work ethic and values that have always been at the heart of small-town life. 

Released October 25th, 2024.

 Legendary high school sports coach and educator Jim Place joins us to share his incredible life journey and the insights he's garnered over decades of mentoring young athletes. From the stability he found in Massillon, Ohio, to the transformative experiences at the University of Dayton, Coach Place's story is one of resilience and dedication. He candidly discusses how his own injury redirected his path from aspiring athlete to mentor, emphasizing the importance of character-building and diversity training in shaping successful sports programs and nurturing future leaders.  Explore with us the profound impact of Jim's coaching philosophy and the challenges he faced in urban coaching environments. He paints a vivid picture of the power of consistency, transparency, and respect in decision-making, all while balancing the expectations of players and parents alike. Discover how his unwavering commitment to character-driven programs turned around entire school cultures, fostering a sense of community and belonging that extends beyond the playing field.  As Coach Place reflects on his role as Director of Character Development, he offers compelling stories of personal growth and leadership among his players. Learn how his innovative approaches, such as a personal philosophy book and character card system, have left an indelible mark on countless students and athletes. With heartfelt anecdotes and a focus on building lifelong relationships, Coach Place's wisdom and experience provide a beacon of inspiration for anyone interested in leadership, education, and personal development. 

Released October 18th, 2024

Special Guest Shawn Ruebush joins BeTempered Hosts Ben Spahr & Dan Schmidt to share his remarkable journey from a tragic childhood to a life marked by resilience and growth. He is an inspiring testament to the human spirit. Join us as we explore Shawn's life-altering experiences, beginning with a humorous college escapade involving mischievous football players, which sets the stage for a deeper look into his life's trials. Shawn opens up about enduring the loss of his father at a young age, navigating the complexities of family dynamics, and the emotional upheaval that followed. His story is a profound reminder of the strength and perseverance found in family bonds and mentorship, and how these influences can guide us through the darkest of times.

Sport becomes a recurring theme in Shawn's life, serving as both an outlet for his frustrations and a source of discipline and purpose. Through the guidance of influential coaches, particularly during a challenging high school football career, Sean discovered the transformative power of sports. We discuss the impact of mentors like Coach Matt Kemper, who saw potential in Shawn and pushed him beyond his limits, teaching invaluable lessons in respect and resilience. Our conversation highlights the role of positive influences and the pivotal life choices that can steer one away from destructive paths, emphasizing the critical importance of support systems and personal decisions in shaping one's life trajectory.

Shawn's story of overcoming adversity and finding gratitude in the face of life's challenges is not just inspiring, but a powerful reminder of the potential for personal growth. From a difficult divorce to finding healing and balance through counseling and mentorship, Sean exemplifies resilience. His journey underscores the importance of self-awareness and emotional healing, encouraging others to confront their challenges and embrace new beginnings. As we reflect on the profound impact of sharing our stories, Shawn's experiences serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration, illustrating that even the most trying experiences can lead to a life filled with gratitude and growth.

Released October 11th, 2024

 Could a mentor be the missing key to unlocking your personal and professional potential? Join hosts, Ben Spahr & Dan Schmidt as they unravel the profound impact of mentorship, sharing heartfelt stories and life-changing moments that have defined our paths. From powerful parental influence to transformative coaches, learn how mentors have sculpted our character, work ethic, and self-improvement journeys. In a unique family exercise, we explore how each stage of life reveals different perceptions and heartfelt appreciations for mentors, sparking a deeper understanding of their invaluable guidance.  We embark on a journey through personal experiences with mentors who have navigated us through life's challenges. Relive my encounters with Coach Kelly, whose balanced encouragement prepared me for collegiate athletics, and Eric Van Vleet, whose wisdom illuminated the complexities of business ownership. These stories are not just personal reflections; they are universal tales of how mentors guide us towards achieving our best selves. Through these narratives, we uncover the lessons of accountability, trust, and positivity that our mentors instilled in us.  As the episode unfolds, we celebrate the rewarding experience of becoming mentors ourselves. From coaching youth sports to engaging with the community, we emphasize the power of stepping out of our comfort zones to uplift others. We express gratitude to those who have shaped our lives while encouraging listeners to become mentors in their communities. Tune in for inspiring stories, upcoming guests with unique journeys, and exciting ways to engage with us, as we champion the transformative power of mentorship. 

Released October 4th, 2024

 What if you could turn life's biggest hurdles into steppingstones for success? Join us as we unravel Marcus's incredible story of resilience and positivity from a previous episode. Marcus has faced some of life's toughest challenges, yet he continues to inspire with his unwavering optimism. Alongside Marcus's journey, Ben & Dan share their own experiences from the lows of living in a girlfriend's parents' basement to carving out successful careers. Together, we explore how a simple shift in mindset can open doors to personal growth and opportunity, even when the odds are stacked against us.  Life's challenges don't have to be setbacks; they can be opportunities for transformation. Through anecdotes from unexpected situations on a family farm and career twists, we discuss how maintaining gratitude, positivity, and prayer can help navigate life's uncertainties. By choosing to focus on the good, while acknowledging the bad, we outline strategies to build a resilient mindset and highlight the vital role of kindness and perspective in overcoming adversity. Our discussion also touches on the health benefits of positivity, including a surprising way a smile can influence your well-being.  Our conversation wouldn't be complete without expressing our heartfelt gratitude to you, our listeners. Your support fuels our journey, and we celebrate the sense of community and connection your engagement brings. We encourage you to continue walking this path with us, sharing your thoughts and stories as we collectively strive toward a more fulfilling life. Don't forget to check out our recommended reads, including "The Magic of Thinking Big" and "The Power of Positive Thinking," to further enhance your positivity toolkit. 

Released September 27th 2024

How does a journey from poverty lead to becoming a successful football coach? This episode of the Be Tempered podcast features Marcus Colvin from Chaminade Julienne, who shares his poignant story of resilience. Growing up in Columbus as one of six siblings in a blended family, Marcus faced significant challenges, including the heart-wrenching loss of his youngest sister, Rosa. Inspired by "Slumdog Millionaire," Marcus reflects on how his life's trials prepared him for his roles as a 43-year-old husband, father, and football coach, offering a moving narrative of overcoming adversity.

Marcus's story is a testament to the power of sports in transforming lives. He recounts his experiences with basketball, football, and track, which provided structure and motivation during his youth in Licking Heights. Through tales of hardship, like washing clothes in the bathtub and going to bed hungry, Marcus highlights the resilience and empathy developed along the way. The support from mentors and educators played a crucial role in shaping his character, showcasing the importance of community and perseverance in overcoming life's obstacles.

Listen as Marcus delves into his coaching career at Chaminade Julienne, from starting as a young coach to becoming the head football coach by 30. He shares the emotional highs and lows, the support from senior players, and the journey to a seven-game winning streak. Alongside professional milestones, Marcus opens up about his college romance and the mentors who have guided him. This episode underscores the power of thoughtful gestures and community support, emphasizing the importance of staying tempered in life's journey. 

Released September 20th 2024

 What does it take to transition from a childhood dream to a life rooted in the soil? Join us as Keith Schmidt, father of show host Dan Schmidt uncovers his inspiring journey into agriculture, a passion sparked by childhood adventures and nurtured by friends and family. Hear about the pivotal moment when a generous church member provided essential equipment that set Keith on his path, and the crucial role community support played in overcoming initial family resistance to his farming dreams.  Rewind to the days when Keith balanced the excitement of meeting his future wife with the challenges of starting a farm amidst financial struggles and harsh weather. Experience his vivid memories of the blizzard of 1978 and the resilience required to manage a farm during such tumultuous times. Keith’s storytelling paints a rich picture of rural life, from joyful moments like welcoming his first son to the relentless pursuit of his farming aspirations.  No journey is without its trials, and Keith’s story includes harrowing close calls and medical battles that tested his strength and faith. Learn about the life-threatening accident during a brutal cold spell and Keith's determined fight against aggressive prostate cancer. Discover the heart of farming through Keith's eyes, where resilience, community support, and an unwavering love for the land are essential. Whether you’re a farmer or just curious about the rural life, Keith’s reflections on the lessons learned from mentors, coaches, and family are sure to resonate deeply. 

Released September 13th 2024

 Unlock the secrets to mastering self-discipline and achieving long-term success as Matty Ledgerwood returns for another insightful episode of the Be Tempered Podcast. Matty, Ben, and Dan share powerful personal stories that highlight how self-discipline, rather than fleeting motivation, shapes their lives, careers, and personal growth. Ben introduces a unique concept: selecting a new discipline each year to focus on, ensuring manageable and lasting changes.  Throughout our conversation, we dive into the nuts and bolts of habit formation, emphasizing the importance of incremental adjustments to foster lasting habits. Learn how waking up early and sacrificing late-night activities can become second nature through consistent effort. We also delve into valuable resources like Craig Groeschel's leadership podcast and James Clear's "Atomic Habits," offering listeners practical tools to support their journey toward disciplined living and substantial personal growth.  In our final chapters, we underscore the significance of delayed gratification, starting small, and maintaining realistic goals to build self-discipline. We examine transformative programs like 75 Hard and the critical role of accountability partners in achieving goals. Personal anecdotes illustrate the power of embracing uncomfortable challenges, giving oneself grace, and fostering a mindset of consistent effort over perfection. Join us as we explore how self-discipline can lead to exceptional long-term benefits and personal success. 

Released September 6th 2024

 What if the key to business success lies in treating your sales team like sports dynasties and military units? Join us as Jim Niekamp, owner of 95% Share Marketing, takes us through his incredible journey, from his early days at Miami University of Ohio to becoming an influential entrepreneur in the healthcare industry. Jim's story is filled with pivotal moments and insights, such as the strategic advice to choose a stable industry and the power of starting in sales to truly understand the customer.  We dive into the fascinating world of business strategies that mirror successful sports and military tactics. Learn how leaders like Scott and Don revolutionized the medical equipment industry by transforming sales reps into proactive consultants, doubling revenue and building lasting relationships. Jim shares invaluable lessons on creating a cohesive company culture and the risks and rewards of prioritizing strong leadership and shared values. Discover how the journey of Midmark Corporation exemplifies the challenges and triumphs of maintaining a successful company culture.  But it’s not all about business; this episode also delves into the personal side of growth and relationships. Jim reflects on the profound impact that supportive relationships and influential figures have had on his journey. Hear unforgettable stories of friendship and love, and gain insights into the importance of delighting customers, not just satisfying them. With powerful examples from industry giants like Steve Jobs and disruptive innovators like Uber and Apple, Jim provides a masterclass on building meaningful business relationships. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that blends entrepreneurship, leadership, and the enduring power of strong personal connections. 

Own the Relationship in life and business!!  Prepare to be inspired.

https://www.95share.com/

Released 8/30/2024 - Love, Resilience, and Family Legacy.

 Have you ever wondered what life was like before the convenience of modern technology and the hustle and bustle of today's world? In this episode of the Be Tempered Podcast, we bring you a heartwarming conversation with Mary Niekamp, the cherished matriarch of my wife’s family. Born in 1930 in St. Henry, Mary's life story is a testament to resilience, love, and the power of family bonds. She opens up about her childhood during the Great Depression, the cherished values instilled in her by her family, and the remarkable tradition of praying for each of her 64 great-grandchildren and 21 grandchildren daily.  Mary's tales are a beautiful journey back in time, touching on the everyday routines that shaped her early years. From the meticulous process of laundry and gardening to the social dynamics of small-town life, these stories paint a vivid picture of a simpler, yet labor-intensive, way of life. Her sweet love story with Tom, marked by a small gesture of candy corn, illustrates the enduring power of young love and the deep bond they shared over decades, despite financial hardships and societal changes post-war.  We also reflect on the transitions brought about by wartime and the significant societal shifts that followed. From rationing essential goods to women entering the workforce, Mary's anecdotes provide a rich, personal perspective on these historical events. As we wrap up, Mary shares poignant memories of her late husband, Tom, including his touching last words that encapsulate their lifelong romance. This episode is an emotional tapestry of family memories, life lessons, and the enduring legacy of love. Join us for a heartfelt tribute to a life well-lived and the timeless values that continue to inspire. 

Released August 9th, 2024.  What happens when faith, humor, and resilience collide? In this heartwarming episode, we introduce Kelly Daniel, an inspiring figure and dear friend of co-host Ben Spahr. Kelly's childhood, filled with the melodies of her father’s military band and the grounding values of a small Ohio farming community, sets the stage for a life shaped by love, faith, and music. As she navigates the challenges of raising children in Arizona’s scorching heat, Kelly’s story becomes a powerful testament to perseverance and the strength of family bonds. 

Released August 16th 2024.  How do you rebuild your life when everything seems to be falling apart? Join us as childhood friends Justin Swartsell and Dan Schmidt take a heartfelt walk down memory lane, sharing their experiences growing up in Preble County, Ohio. From football fields to Bible school classrooms, their stories are filled with humor and nostalgia, setting the stage for an inspiring discussion about the importance of maintaining a sense of fun and community in everyday life.

As we dive deeper, Justin opens up about his journey through life's challenges, including the uncertain post-high school phase and a pivot towards a career fueled by his passion for the outdoors. With a background in recreation and wildlife management from Hawking College, Justin eventually found his calling at a private hunting and shooting preserve by Lake Erie. His story is a testament to the power of resilience and the significance of pursuing one's true passions, even when the path isn't always clear.

The conversation takes a poignant turn as Justin bravely recounts his struggles with divorce and the emotional turmoil that followed. He speaks candidly about hitting rock bottom and the suicidal thoughts that plagued him, but also about the unwavering support of his friends and family that helped him through. Through faith and financial discipline inspired by Dave Ramsey, Justin found healing and a new sense of purpose. This episode is a powerful reminder that no matter how dark the times may seem, there is always hope and a path to recovery. Tune in for a story of resilience, faith, and the indomitable human spirit. 

Released August 23rd, 2024.  How does one rise above a turbulent childhood marked by addiction, near-poverty, and financial adversity to become a successful entrepreneur? Join us as Kevin Shook, the founder of Global Media Enterprise, takes us through his extraordinary journey from a troubled youth in Indiana to a thriving business owner. Kevin's candid reflections on his upbringing, his father's mental health challenges due to birth control complications, and his family's struggles with addiction and government aid are both heart-wrenching and inspiring.

Kevin opens up about his unexpected career path, starting as an EMT and firefighter right after high school. He shares the transformative experiences of working in both rural and urban settings, from the quiet streets of small towns to the bustling neighborhoods of Indianapolis. We'll hear about the personal growth and invaluable lessons that came from this tumultuous journey, including his passion for bodybuilding and the impacts of complex family dynamics and relationships along the way. Kevin's return to the Winchester Fire Department provides a nostalgic and touching glimpse into the importance of community and camaraderie.

In a powerful and moving discussion, Kevin delves into the tough topics of funding challenges within the fire department, the misuse of EMS for financial gain, and the personal toll of these stresses. His honest talk about sobriety, mental health struggles, and the daily battle with alcoholism offers hope and encouragement. Kevin's emphasis on vulnerability, authenticity, and breaking societal expectations underscores the profound impact of sharing one's story. Don't miss this heartfelt episode that highlights resilience, the importance of support systems, and the transformative power of honesty and faith. 

Released July 19th, 2024  - Prepare to be inspired by the legendary college football coach, Mike Kelly, as he shares the secrets behind his extraordinary 27-year career at the University of Dayton. With an enviable record of 246-54-1 and a spot in both the University of Dayton Athletic Hall of Fame and the College Football Hall of Fame, Kelly remains a paragon of humility. Discover how he attributes his success to the incredible people around him and his seamless transition from the sidelines to administrative roles, always guided by unwavering values and principles.

Released July 26th, 2024 Ever wondered what it takes to transform a hesitant idea into a thriving podcast? Join us as we recount our journey from the rough beginnings of the BeTempered podcast to the inspiring stories that have shaped its growth. The spark ignited with our first guest, Matty Ledgerwood, whose entrepreneurial spirit and self-taught construction skills captured our hearts and set a powerful tone for future interviews. Dive into Matty's journey and discover why believing in oneself can make all the difference.   From the dual careers of Howard Stammen to the resilience of Drew VanVleet and the profound insights of Coach Mike Kelly, this episode is packed with stories that showcase the extraordinary lives of ordinary people. A special moment of synchronicity led us to enhance our podcast production, reaffirming our commitment to delivering meaningful content. Tune in to experience the impactful feedback from our listeners and the divine signs that guide our path forward, ensuring that the Be Tempered podcast continues to inspire and connect us all. 

Released August 2nd, 2024 -  Patience and perseverance take center stage as we reflect on life's unpredictable journey through the lens of farming. Contrasting modern society's instant gratification culture, we emphasize the long-term benefits of patience and steady effort. We share motivational quotes and personal transformation stories that underscore the importance of resilience. Ending on a heartfelt note, we discuss the impact of our podcast journey, the power of vulnerability, and the significance of kindness, capped off with Mother Teresa’s inspiring poem, "Do it Anyway." Tune in for a wealth of insights designed to help you navigate life's ups and downs with grace and resilience. 

 Released May 2024 - Matty Ledgerwood, the owner and founder of Ledgerwood Home Restoration. Matty shares valuable insights and experiences that shed light on the challenges and rewards of the restoration industry. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to thrive in the world of home restoration. Matty is someone who is the very definition of being tempered. 

https://www.ledgerwoodhomerestoration.com/