BeTempered

On this episode, special guest Jim Catron joins hosts Ben Spahr and Dan Schmidt. Discover the extraordinary journey of Jim Catron, a man who rose from humble beginnings in coal mining camps to become a leading figure in the glass industry. Jim's story is one of adaptability, resilience, and a relentless work ethic learned early in life. As he recounts his experiences of frequently moving and attending different schools, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the determination and perseverance that laid the foundation for his later successes.

From a young boy peeling potatoes in a restaurant to a Staff Sergeant in the Army at just 17, Jim’s life has been a series of bold transitions and rapid achievements. His adventurous spirit took him from the military, where he served with the 532nd Amphibious Seabees in Japan and Korea, back to his roots, where he laid the groundwork for a thriving glass business. Jim’s narrative is a testament to the power of seizing opportunities and the transformative impact of strong leadership and faith.

Throughout the episode, we explore Jim's entrepreneurial journey, including the founding of his own company in 1981, the vital role of loyal employees like Kelly and Tony, and the mentorship that helped shape his path. Through stories of faith, kindness, and the pursuit of excellence, Jim underscores the true measures of success: character, community impact, and enduring legacy. Join us for an inspiring conversation that highlights the importance of resilience and the profound influence of a supportive network.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Retired superintendent and principal Greg Pettit takes us through an inspiring journey from his humble beginnings in Hamilton, Ohio, to his impactful career in education. Greg shares stories from his childhood that taught him the essence of hard work and family values, recounting adventures with neighborhood friends that shaped his commitment to motivating teachers and students. We explore Greg's evolution from a high school athlete receiving a worn-out jersey to a college football player, underscoring resilience and the unexpected paths to success.

Greg's story continues as he transitions from being a hall monitor to the youngest head football coach in Ohio, highlighting the profound influence of mentorship and leadership. He speaks candidly about his personal life, including his partnership with his wife, Fawn, and how their shared dedication to education has impacted their family. We dive into Greg's tenure as a principal and superintendent, where he implemented innovative programs that transformed school environments, earning national recognition and creating lasting change for students and communities.

Throughout the episode, Greg emphasizes the importance of integrity, leadership, and leaving a meaningful legacy. He reflects on the powerful role educators play in shaping students' lives, sharing heartfelt stories where his support made a difference, even saving a student's life. This conversation celebrates the ripple effect of inspiration and community appreciation, urging educators to focus on relationships and integrity as the foundation of effective leadership. Join us in honoring Greg Pettit's journey and insights, inspiring listeners to make a positive impact in their own communities.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

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: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmjones/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidjones328/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001022268227

Here's the link to David's Red Cross fundraising page for Hurricane relief: https://americanredcross.donordrive.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.personalCampaign&participantID=9397

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

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.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

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.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

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.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

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 Sean'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 Shawns’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.

 Visit BeTempered.com to explore inspiring stories of resilience and growth. Join the movement today! 

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Could a mentor be the missing key to unlocking your personal and professional potential? Join us as we 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.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

What if you could turn life's biggest hurdles into stepping stones 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.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

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.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show