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I Like That Story episodes
- Millions Saw Frozen Jeans. Few Know Her Real Story. | Janet Steward #17 | I Like That Story
What happens when a viral TikTok sensation shares the story behind the screen?
In this heartfelt conversation, Jeff Gould sits down with Janet Stewart—better known online as "Yooper Janet"—whose frozen blue jeans videos, Minnesota humor, and authentic storytelling have earned her hundreds of thousands of followers and millions of likes.But this interview goes far beyond social media.Janet opens up about growing up in Sioux Falls, her father's devastating accident, years of alcoholism, family hardship, abuse she survived in her own life, and the remarkable redemption story that transformed her relationship with her dad during the final decade of his life.From viral internet fame to profound lessons about forgiveness, healing, faith, second chances, and personal transformation, Janet's story is a powerful reminder that the worst chapter of your life does not have to define the rest of your story.In this episode, you'll discover:• How a pair of frozen blue jeans turned Janet into a viral sensation• The surprising origin of "Yooper Janet"• Growing up with a father whose life changed after a tragic accident• The impact of addiction on families• A life-threatening medical crisis that unexpectedly led to redemption• Why Janet believes people can change—even later in life• Her journey through abuse, recovery, and starting over• Lessons learned from delivering her father's eulogy• Faith, forgiveness, and finding purpose in painIf you've ever struggled with family relationships, grief, addiction, regret, or the hope of reconciliation, this conversation will encourage you.CONNECT WITH JANETInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/yooperjanet/TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@yooperjanetFacebook (Yooper Janet):https://www.facebook.com/@YooperJanet/Facebook (Personal):https://www.facebook.com/JanetMarieStewardFEATURED MEDIA APPEARANCESGood Morning America:https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/news/video/ice-queen-tiktok-82262321ABC News:https://abcnews.go.com/WNN/video/ice-queen-tiktok-82262321The Weather Channel:https://weather.com/storms/winter/video/so-cold-they-froze-their-pants-offYahoo Finance:https://finance.yahoo.com/news/minnesota-family-literally-freezes-pants-214044183.htmlKARE 11:https://www.kare11.com/amp/article/money/how-some-of-minnesotas-top-tiktokers-make-their-money/89-b50d2fcc-9166-4196-9e59-3d00caf5cb41UNILAD Adventures:https://fb.watch/pUiSzfI_yS/?mibextid=v7YzmGUP Matters:https://youtu.be/bTypjpCf0Xo?si=Oud4tGpujq4L4laYTODAY Show:https://www.today.com/video/how-cold-is-it-see-spaghetti-jeans-egg-frozen-in-place-130687557848#JeffGould #AmericasStoryteller #Faith #Redemption #SecondChances #YooperJanet #MinnesotaLife #PersonalTransformation #Family #Forgiveness #Inspiration #StorytellingLearn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.comBuy Jeff's books, CD, and audio book: https://www.ilikethatstory.net/shopGet urgent one-on-one coaching with Jeff now: https://calendly.com/jeffjgouldConnect with Jeff on social media:Linktree: https://linktr.ee/jeffgouldLinkedIn: / jeff-gould-americas-storytellerTwitter/X: https://x.com/jeffgouldstoryInstagram: / jeffgouldilikethatstoryFacebook: / jeffgouldilikethatstoryFor booking, contact:Email: [email protected]Phone: (605) 215-6414 or https://www.ilikethatstory.net/contactSend business/sponsorship inquiries to [email protected]© Jeff Gould, America's StorytellerThis video is not to be reproduced without prior authorization. The original YouTube video may be distributed & embedded, if required. Callers waive all rights to privacy on this public call in show. If you need private coaching, pay for and book a call at https://www.ilikethatstory.com1 hr 14 min - The Grocer Helping Keep Small Town America Alive | RF Buche #16 | I Like That Story
In this episode, Jeff Gould sits down with fourth-generation grocer and community leader RF Buche for a powerful conversation about small-town America, business, leadership, Native American culture, and what it truly means to serve people.
From surviving rural retail competition and preserving local communities to honoring the legacy of family, faith, and hard work, RF shares the heart behind a business philosophy built on relationships — not just transactions.Topics include:• The history and legacy of GF Buche Company• What rural America is really facing today• Why small-town grocery stores matter• Leadership, customer service, and company culture• Native American communities and Lakota culture• Philanthropy through Team Buche Cares• Underdog scholarships and helping struggling families• The Robinson-Patman Act and modern retail competition• Family legacy, hardship, resilience, and purposeRF Buche is the President and CEO of GF Buche Company, a family-owned business founded in 1905 with locations across South Dakota, including Buche Foods, Gus Stop, Ace Hardware & Lumber, and Al’s Oasis.This is more than a business interview. It’s a conversation about people, purpose, and preserving the spirit of rural America.Subscribe for more long-form conversations with interesting people living meaningful stories.https://www.buchefoods.com/https://teambuchecares.org/https://alsoasissd.com/#JeffGould #AmericasStoryteller #SouthDakota #SmallTownAmerica #RuralAmerica #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #NativeAmericanCulture #CustomerService #Community #Philanthropy #BusinessLeadership #Grocer #Lakota #familybusiness #RFBuche____Learn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.comBuy Jeff's books, CD, and audio book: https://www.ilikethatstory.net/shopGet urgent one-on-one coaching with Jeff now: https://calendly.com/jeffjgouldConnect with Jeff on social media:LinkedIn — jeff-gould-americas-storytellerTwitter/X — https://x.com/jeffgouldstoryInstagram — jeffgouldilikethatstoryFacebook — jeffgouldilikethatstoryFor booking, contact:Email: [email protected]Phone: (605) 215-6414 or https://www.ilikethatstory.net/contactSend business/sponsorship inquiries to [email protected]© Jeff Gould, America's StorytellerThis video is not to be reproduced without prior authorization. The original YouTube video may be distributed & embedded, if required. Callers waive all rights to privacy on this public call in show. If you need private coaching, pay for and book a call at https://www.ilikethatstory.com1 hr 9 min - What Restaurant Owners REALLY Think About Customers | Brittany Wagner #15 | I Like That Story
What do restaurant owners really think about customers? And what happens when a lifelong people-person—raised in the restaurant business, trained in psychology, and now leading tourism and community development—sits down for an honest conversation about modern life, parenting, hospitality, and America?
In this episode of I Like That Story, Jeff Gould talks with Brittany Wagner, Tourism Director for Visit Yankton and a leader with Yankton Thrive in historic Yankton, South Dakota.Brittany’s organization has invited Jeff to bring his acclaimed America’s Story presentation to Yankton as part of the community’s celebration surrounding America’s 250th birthday—an especially meaningful event for one of the most historic communities in the Dakota Territory.Brittany shares her unique journey:* Growing up in her family’s restaurant from the age of three* Working more than a decade as a mental health therapist for youth and families* Owning and operating a restaurant during the COVID era* Transitioning into tourism, storytelling, and community building through Visit Yankton and Yankton ThriveTogether, Jeff and Brittany dive into:* The hidden psychology of restaurants and tipping* Restaurant cleanliness secrets diners never notice* Parenting in the smartphone and social media era* Gentle parenting vs. traditional parenting* Mental health challenges facing young people today* Why family dinners still matter* Storytelling, history, and preserving family memories* The beauty and challenges of small-town life* Why Yankton and the Missouri River region still matter in America’s storyThe episode is funny, thoughtful, nostalgic, and surprisingly personal — blending restaurant stories, parenting insights, psychology, American history, and candid reflections about modern culture and human connection.Outside of work, Brittany and her husband Josh are raising four children while balancing the beautiful chaos of family life, youth sports, travel, hiking, and small-town living.Learn more about Yankton Thrive at:https://www.yanktonsd.com/Explore Visit Yankton at:https://www.visityanktonsd.com/00:06 Introduction to Brittany Wagner and Yankton01:34 Introduction to Brittany's Journey03:25 Transitioning Careers: From Therapy to Tourism09:16 The Restaurant Experience: Insights and Anecdotes15:17 Challenges in the Restaurant Business21:19 Family and Work-Life Balance23:23 Nature vs. Nurture in Parenting26:21 The Importance of Family Meals30:17 Gentle Parenting: A Balancing Act34:55 Mental Health Awareness in Youth37:39 Navigating Technology and Parenting45:29 Reflecting on America's 250th Birthday47:31 Exploring Historical Movements52:03 The Importance of Family Stories54:21 The Art of Storytelling57:24 Secrets of the Restaurant Industry58:22 Navigating Age and Identity01:12:17 Curiosity and ConnectionLearn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.comBuy Jeff's books, CD, and audio book: https://www.ilikethatstory.net/shopGet urgent one-on-one coaching with Jeff now: https://calendly.com/jeffjgouldConnect with Jeff on social media:LinkedIn — jeff-gould-americas-storytellerTwitter/X — https://x.com/jeffgouldstoryInstagram — jeffgouldilikethatstoryFacebook — jeffgouldilikethatstoryFor booking, contact:Email: [email protected]Phone: (605) 215-6414 or https://www.ilikethatstory.net/contactSend business/sponsorship inquiries to [email protected]© Jeff Gould, America's StorytellerThis video is not to be reproduced without prior authorization. The original YouTube video may be distributed & embedded, if required. Callers waive all rights to privacy on this public call in show. If you need private coaching, pay for and book a call at https://www.ilikethatstory.com1 hr 17 min - He Survived a Stroke, Addiction, and a Hidden Heart Condition | Bill Palanuk #14 | I Like That Story
What happens when a man walks through addiction, trauma, broken relationships, and a near-death experience—and comes out the other side with clarity, faith, and purpose?
In this long-form conversation, Jeff Gould sits down with longtime friend and broadcaster Bill Palanuk for one of the most honest and revealing discussions you’ll hear. This is not a surface-level interview. It’s a deep, unfiltered conversation about the realities of addiction, the weight of personal history, and the difficult but powerful process of rebuilding a life from the ground up.Bill’s story spans decades. From his early years in radio, living the fast-paced “on-air personality” lifestyle, to quietly battling nicotine addiction, alcohol dependency, and internal struggles that few people ever saw. He opens up about what it took to finally say enough—walking away from smoking, chewing tobacco, and drinking, not through perfection, but through a moment of truth that forced him to confront who he had become.But that was only the beginning.Shortly after making those changes, Bill suffered a stroke—an event that stripped away his ability to speak, process language, and function normally. What followed was not just physical recovery, but a profound internal shift. During that experience, Bill describes a level of peace and calm that fundamentally changed how he views life, death, and everything in between.As doctors searched for answers, they uncovered something even more shocking: a hole in his heart that had been there since birth. A condition that, in many ways, explained a lifetime of symptoms and struggles. The procedure to repair it, the complications that followed, and the long road back add another layer to an already extraordinary story.Throughout this conversation, Bill also speaks candidly about PTSD, family trauma, and the long-term effects of growing up in an environment shaped by addiction. He shares how those experiences influenced his behavior, his identity, and the way he navigated the world for years.This is also a conversation about transformation.Bill talks about sobriety—not just as the absence of alcohol, but as a way of thinking, living, and processing life differently. He breaks down the daily practices that keep him grounded: gratitude, faith, discipline, and connection. He shares the principles he now lives by—God, love, forgiveness, gratitude, serenity, courage, and wisdom—and how those guide his decisions today.There are also moments of reflection on friendship, storytelling, and the lost art of truly listening. Jeff and Bill revisit their early days in broadcasting, the discipline required in radio, and the difference between interviews and real conversations.This episode is not rushed. It takes its time. And it rewards you for staying with it.If you’ve ever struggled with addiction, faced a health scare, questioned your path, or wondered if it’s too late to change—this story will meet you where you are.Subscribe for more long-form conversations that go beyond the surface and explore what really shapes a life.New episodes released every Thursday.#BillPalanuk #JeffGould #americasstoryteller #Storytelling #AddictionRecovery #SobrietyJourney #StrokeSurvivor #NearDeathExperience #PersonalTransformation #FaithJourney #Resilience #LifeLessons #SelfImprovement #MentalHealthAwareness #PTSDRecovery #TraumaHealing #RecoveryStory #OvercomingAdversity #GrowthMindset #Inspiration #Motivation #LifeAfterAddiction #SpiritualGrowth #AuthenticConversations #PodcastLife #LongFormContent #HumanExperience #RebuildingLife #SecondChances #PurposeDrivenLife #DeepConversations____Learn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.comBuy Jeff's books, CD, and audio book: https://www.ilikethatstory.net/shopGet urgent one-on-one coaching with Jeff now: https://calendly.com/jeffjgouldConnect with Jeff on social media:LinkedIn — jeff-gould-americas-storytellerTwitter/X — https://x.com/jeffgouldstoryInstagram — jeffgouldilikethatstoryFacebook — jeffgouldilikethatstoryFor booking, contact:Email: [email protected]Phone: (605) 215-6414 or https://www.ilikethatstory.net/contactSend business/sponsorship inquiries to [email protected]© Jeff Gould, America's StorytellerThis video is not to be reproduced without prior authorization. The original YouTube video may be distributed & embedded, if required. Callers waive all rights to privacy on this public call in show. If you need private coaching, pay for and book a call at https://www.ilikethatstory.com1 hr 28 min - How One Little Girl Survived Unthinkable Loss | Mary Grace Johnson #13 | I Like That Story
What happens when childhood tragedy shapes an entire life?
In this moving conversation, Jeff Gould (“America’s Storyteller”) interviews author Mary Grace Johnson about her new faith-based children’s book, And the Sun Came Up: A True Story of Grief and Hope.Get Mary's book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0cmInoOqMary shares the heartbreaking story of losing her father in a farming accident at just eight years old, and how grief, faith, family, and community shaped her life afterward. She also discusses anxiety, healing, motherhood, and the emotional journey of turning personal tragedy into a story that can help children and families facing loss today.Mary Grace Johnson is a published author with hope*books and a former English teacher and librarian. She writes inspirational stories and blogs that encourage people through difficult seasons while pointing them toward the love and hope found in Jesus Christ.Before writing And the Sun Came Up and its companion journal, she contributed to Hope for the Holidays and A Year of Hope Devotional. She has also written for Jennifer Roland and Twyla Franz blogs and contributed to a writing book by Mackenzie Ryan Walters.The book is written for ages 4+ and is available in hardcover and paperback through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart, Books-a-Million, HopeBooks Publishing, and Bookshop.org.Mary lives in South Dakota with her husband and enjoys reading, writing, and time with her children and grandchildren.Website:https://marygracejohnsonauthor.comSubstack:https://marygracejohnson.substack.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/marygracejo...Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/mgcjsdLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-grac...If this interview encouraged you, please like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories.#JeffGould #AmericasStoryteller #MaryGraceJohnson #Faith #Hope #Grief #ChildrensBooks #AuthorInterview #ChristianBooks____Learn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.com1 hr 6 min - The $125K Healthcare Cliff (And How to Avoid It) | Thomas Asfeldt #12 | I Like That Story
The $125,000 a year healthcare cliff and what to do about it. This interview with Jeff Gould’s Healthcare Czar, Thomas Asfeldt, is one you cannot afford to miss.
In this episode of I Like That Story, Jeff sits down with healthcare strategist and interim executive Thomas Asfeldt—and what unfolds is one of the most eye-opening conversations we’ve had yet.Thomas has spent decades inside healthcare systems across the country, brought in to lead, fix, and improve organizations at every level. From ICU floors to national cancer initiatives, he’s seen how the system actually works—and where it breaks.And he doesn’t hold back.💥 This conversation goes far beyond theory. It’s practical, real, and in many cases… shocking.Inside this episode, you’ll discover:* Why the U.S. healthcare system may only be a “C- or D” despite spending more than any country in the world* The hidden incentives that quietly drive treatment decisions* Why your insurance might actually cost you MORE than paying cash* How prescription drug pricing really works (and who’s taking the biggest cut)* A simple question you can ask that could save you thousands on medical care* The critical role of personal responsibility—and how small changes compound into life-changing outcomes* Why prevention, not treatment, is the real missing piece in modern healthcareYou’ll also hear powerful personal stories—from cancer battles to life-saving moments—that reveal the human side of a very complex system.And yes… somehow, it all begins with Yoda.If you want to take control of your health, your money, and your decisions inside the healthcare system—this is a conversation you can’t afford to miss.Thomas Asfeldt is a healthcare leader, interim executive, and mentor with decades of experience across nursing, oncology, and life sciences. He’s led cancer centers, worked on federal research initiatives, and advises organizations nationwide on improving outcomes while lowering costs.At his core, Thomas is driven by service—helping individuals, leaders, and systems perform at their highest level for the benefit of others.🔗 Connect with Thomas:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/thomasasfeldt🎯 Work with Thomas:* Interim senior leadership (onsite or remote)* Leadership training for emerging and senior leaders* Accountability & performance coaching* Healthcare cost optimization strategies for employers🙏 His message is simple: pursue service, take ownership, and live with purpose.👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments—we may bring Thomas back for a follow-up episode.#JeffGould #ThomasAsfeldt #ILikeThatStory #Healthcare #HealthcareCosts #MedicalSystem #HealthInsurance #PersonalFinance #HealthTips #PreventiveCare #Leadership #Accountability #Entrepreneurship #PodcastInterview #HealthReform #MedicalIndustry #CostOfHealthcare____Learn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.comBuy Jeff's books, CD, and audio book: https://www.ilikethatstory.net/shopGet urgent one-on-one coaching with Jeff now: https://calendly.com/jeffjgouldConnect with Jeff on social media:LinkedIn — jeff-gould-americas-storytellerTwitter/X — https://x.com/jeffgouldstoryInstagram — jeffgouldilikethatstoryFacebook — jeffgouldilikethatstoryFor booking, contact:Email: [email protected]Phone: (605) 215-6414 or https://www.ilikethatstory.net/contactSend business/sponsorship inquiries to [email protected]© Jeff Gould, America's StorytellerThis video is not to be reproduced without prior authorization. The original YouTube video may be distributed & embedded, if required. Callers waive all rights to privacy on this public call in show. If you need private coaching, pay for and book a call at https://www.ilikethatstory.com1 hr 37 min - You Have No Idea What's Coming | Scott Sandal #11 | I Like That Story
In this episode, Jeff Gould sits down with Scott Sandal—a ranch kid from rural South Dakota who found himself in the middle of one of the most complex and rapidly growing industries in the world: data centers.
What starts as a simple conversation quickly turns into a fascinating look at the invisible infrastructure powering our daily lives. From cloud storage and streaming to AI, energy consumption, and global competition, Scott breaks down a topic most people don’t understand—but depend on every single day.This isn’t just about technology. It’s about scale, energy, human behavior, and the unintended consequences of a world that never stops creating and storing data.What we cover:* What data centers actually are—and where your data really lives* How a ranch kid ended up working around the world in tech infrastructure* The explosion of data storage and why we keep saving everything* Why the “cloud” is far more physical (and energy-intensive) than you think* The massive power demands behind data centers—and what a gigawatt really means* Why some facilities consume more energy than entire communities* The environmental and infrastructure challenges of scaling data storage* Bitcoin mining and why it’s controversial in the industry* The global race for AI, compute power, and technological dominance* Concerns around regulation, zoning, and unchecked expansion* How communities should think about data centers moving forwardIf you’ve ever wondered where your photos, emails, and streaming content actually go—or what it really costs to store and access it—this conversation will open your eyes.👍 Like the video if you learned something new🔁 Share it with someone who needs to hear this💬 Drop your biggest takeaway in the commentsScott Sandal grew up on a ranch in western South Dakota and took an unexpected path into the world of data centers and digital infrastructure. With decades of experience, he now works with organizations around the world to improve efficiency, performance, and design within data center environments—helping shape the backbone of the digital age.https://www.sunbirddcim.com/Hashtags:#JeffGould #ScottSandal #DataCenters #TechExplained #CloudComputing #ArtificialIntelligence #EnergyCrisis #DigitalInfrastructure #Bitcoin #CryptoMining #FutureOfTech #AI #BigData #Technology #Innovation #Podcast #LongFormInterview #Infrastructure #Energy #techtalk____Learn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.comBuy Jeff's books, CD, and audio book: https://www.ilikethatstory.net/shopGet urgent one-on-one coaching with Jeff now: https://calendly.com/jeffjgouldConnect with Jeff on social media:LinkedIn — jeff-gould-americas-storytellerTwitter/X — https://x.com/jeffgouldstoryInstagram — jeffgouldilikethatstoryFacebook — jeffgouldilikethatstoryFor booking, contact:Email: [email protected]Phone: (605) 215-6414 or https://www.ilikethatstory.net/contactSend business/sponsorship inquiries to [email protected]© Jeff Gould, America's StorytellerThis video is not to be reproduced without prior authorization. The original YouTube video may be distributed & embedded, if required. Callers waive all rights to privacy on this public call in show. If you need private coaching, pay for and book a call at https://www.ilikethatstory.com1 hr 17 min - This Question Changes Everything | Tom Henderson #10 | I Like That Story
In this episode, Jeff Gould sits down with Tom Henderson, founder of RESGEN (Restoration Generation), for a raw and insightful conversation about faith, identity, and what it really takes to rebuild a life from the inside out. Tom shares how a deeply broken relationship with his father shaped his early years—and how that pain eventually became the foundation for a mission that now impacts thousands of men seeking purpose, direction, and restoration.
resgen.orgThis isn’t just a story about success. It’s about surrender, forgiveness, leadership, and the uncomfortable but necessary steps required to grow into the man you’re meant to be. Whether you're navigating strained relationships, questioning your path, or trying to lead better at home and in life, this conversation offers practical wisdom you can actually apply.What we cover:• Tom’s journey from a broken relationship with his father to full-circle restoration• How RESGEN grew from a simple step of faith into events reaching thousands of men• The real meaning of forgiveness—and why it’s about freedom, not forgetting• Parenting adult children: shifting from control to coaching• The power of asking: “What do you need from me right now?”• “Taste, don’t swallow” — how to handle praise and criticism without losing yourself• Finding your purpose when there’s no clear roadmap• The importance of mentors and surrounding yourself with truth-tellers• Why men struggle with deep friendships—and how to build real onesT• aking small steps of faith instead of waiting for certaintyL• etting go of control and trusting God with the outcomeIf you're serious about growth, this episode will push you to think differently, act intentionally, and take ownership of your next step.About Tom Henderson:Tom Henderson is a follower of Christ, husband to Laura, and father to Isaiah and Chase. He is the founder of RESGEN and is driven by a passion to reach people with the Good News of the Gospel and help them restore the broken relationships in their lives. While speaking to large audiences brings him energy, he equally values one-on-one conversations—listening to people’s stories, talking about life, and even sharing his love for Costco over coffee.👍 Like the video if it challenged you🔁 Share it with someone who needs it💬 Drop your biggest takeaway in the comments#jeffgould #TomHenderson #RESGEN #MensGrowth #PersonalDevelopment #FaithBased #ChristianLeadership #SelfImprovement #Forgiveness #PurposeDriven #Leadership #MensMentalHealth #Relationships #Parenting #FaithJourney #Motivation #Inspiration #Podcast #LongFormInterview #growthmindset____Learn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.comBuy Jeff's books, CD, and audio book: https://www.ilikethatstory.net/shopGet urgent one-on-one coaching with Jeff now: https://calendly.com/jeffjgouldConnect with Jeff on social media:LinkedIn — jeff-gould-americas-storytellerTwitter/X — https://x.com/jeffgouldstoryInstagram — jeffgouldilikethatstoryFacebook — jeffgouldilikethatstoryFor booking, contact:Email: [email protected]Phone: (605) 215-6414 or https://www.ilikethatstory.net/contactSend business/sponsorship inquiries to [email protected]© Jeff Gould, America's StorytellerThis video is not to be reproduced without prior authorization. The original YouTube video may be distributed & embedded, if required. Callers waive all rights to privacy on this public call in show. If you need private coaching, pay for and book a call at https://www.ilikethatstory.com1 hr 22 min - AI vs Humans: Why Customers Still Demand a Real Person | Joel Sylvester #9 | I Like That Story
In this episode, Jeff Gould sits down with entrepreneur and keynote speaker Joel M. Sylvester, co-owner of Five Star Solutions (a customer experience and business process outsourcing company), for a wide-ranging conversation about AI in the workplace, customer service, and what the next decade of business will demand.
Joel breaks down how AI is already being used in real companies—agent assist, speech analytics, sentiment tracking, hiring interviews, translation, and even accent reduction—and why we’re still a long way from replacing humans in high-stakes, high-empathy interactions. Jeff push es back with the real question: What happens to critical thinking, human connection, and the parts of life that require effort?You’ll also hear:• Why “slow internet” and modern travel complaints are (maybe) “stupid and ridiculous” 😄• A powerful parenting principle: teach kids what you wish you knew, not what you wish you had• The 80/20 rule applied to customer conversations and training• Why “data confidence” is the hidden bottleneck preventing full automation• The difference between non-critical needs vs. critical needs (and why that matters)• A candid discussion about population decline, productivity, and what the future economy may look like• Joel’s best advice: do the things you don’t want to do (and why it matters neurologically)• Jeff’s answer to Joel’s final question: how to tell a truly memorable storyIf you’re a business owner, manager, employee, or just someone trying to understand where AI is headed (without the hype), this one will challenge the way you think.Joel Sylvester | LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-sylvester-3a454344/FIVE STAR SOLUTIONShttps://www.getfivestar.com👇 If you got value from this conversation:Like, Subscribe, and CommentAnd if you know someone Jeff should interview next, drop their name below.00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Conversation04:27 Technology Complaints and Modern Marvels07:27 Innovative Ideas in Air Travel10:34 Parenting Wisdom and Life Lessons13:38 Understanding Customer Experience (CX) Business16:32 Training and Knowledge in Customer Service19:33 The Role of AI in Customer Interactions22:34 The Future of AI and Human Interaction25:40 Concerns About AI and Critical Thinking28:37 The Importance of Prompting in AI Usage31:40 The Future of Technology and Human Relationships33:50 The Art of Storytelling and Technology's Role35:35 AI in the Workplace: Enhancements and Limitations38:51 Rural Talent and Remote Work Opportunities41:19 Data Confidence and Customer Experience43:43 Automation vs. Human Interaction: A Balancing Act47:59 Demographic Shifts and Future Workforce Challenges49:29 Secrets to Effective Leadership and Data Utilization57:09 The Importance of Doing Hard Things01:01:38 The Key to Memorable Storytelling____Learn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.comBuy Jeff's books, CD, and audio book: https://www.ilikethatstory.net/shopGet urgent one-on-one coaching with Jeff now: https://calendly.com/jeffjgouldConnect with Jeff on social media:LinkedIn — jeff-gould-americas-storytellerTwitter/X — https://x.com/jeffgouldstoryInstagram — jeffgouldilikethatstoryFacebook — jeffgouldilikethatstoryFor booking, contact:Email: [email protected]Phone: (605) 215-6414 or https://www.ilikethatstory.net/contactSend business/sponsorship inquiries to [email protected]© Jeff Gould, America's StorytellerThis video is not to be reproduced without prior authorization. The original YouTube video may be distributed & embedded, if required. Callers waive all rights to privacy on this public call in show. If you need private coaching, pay for and book a call at https://www.ilikethatstory.com1 hr 8 min - Wisdom You Can’t Google | Alex Brown #8 | I Like That Story
What can a 94-year-old teach us about life?
Jeff Gould sits down with Alex Brown, age 94, to hear the wisdom that only nine decades of living can provide.Jeff believes we spend far too much time comparing ourselves to people our own age. Instead, he suggests we look 20–30 years ahead and learn from those who have already traveled the road we’re on.In this thoughtful conversation, Alex reflects on nearly a century of life — from growing up during the Great Depression, remembering Pearl Harbor as a child, serving in the U.S. Navy, building a business from scratch at age 40, and eventually selling that company after 25 years.Along the way he shares simple but powerful lessons about:• Longevity and staying healthy into your 90s• Starting a business later in life• The importance of goal setting• Parenting and family values• Faith and maintaining a positive outlook• What it’s like to witness nearly a century of world eventsAlex has lived through World War II, Sputnik, the Cold War, and the rise of digital technology, giving him a rare perspective on how dramatically the world has changed.And before the conversation ends, Alex shares a couple of classic jokes that show something else about long life: a sense of humor might be one of the best survival skills of all.Sometimes the best wisdom doesn’t come from experts or influencers.It comes from someone who has simply lived a long life and paid attention.Chapters00:00 Why we should learn from people older than us01:12 Meet Alex Brown (Age 94)02:40 The secret to staying healthy into your 90s03:30 Career, engineering, and building a business04:50 Starting a company at age 4006:00 Advice for young people entering the workforce07:40 Advice for midlife career decisions08:30 Retirement and finding purpose09:00 Parenting and family values12:00 Positive thinking and mindset17:00 Thoughts on aging and life expectancy18:00 The greatest inventions of the past century19:00 Memories of Pearl Harbor and World War II21:00 Serving in the U.S. Navy23:00 Reflections on the modern world24:40 Alex shares a couple of classic jokesSubscribe to Jeff Gould – America’s Storyteller for conversations that capture wisdom, life lessons, and the stories behind extraordinary lives._____Learn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.comBuy Jeff's books, CD, and audio book: https://www.ilikethatstory.net/shopGet urgent one-on-one coaching with Jeff now: https://calendly.com/jeffjgouldConnect with Jeff on social media:LinkedIn — jeff-gould-americas-storytellerTwitter/X — https://x.com/jeffgouldstoryInstagram — jeffgouldilikethatstoryFacebook — jeffgouldilikethatstoryFor booking, contact:Email: [email protected]Phone: (605) 215-6414 or https://www.ilikethatstory.net/contactSend business/sponsorship inquiries to [email protected]© Jeff Gould, America's StorytellerThis video is not to be reproduced without prior authorization. The original YouTube video may be distributed & embedded, if required. Callers waive all rights to privacy on this public call in show. If you need private coaching, pay for and book a call at https://www.ilikethatstory.com28 min
About I Like That Story
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Each I Like That Story episode showcases the wisdom, humor, and insight of Jeff Gould, America's Storyteller.
Episodes are brief or long-form interviews, inspirational, and on-point stories, delivered every week to start your week right.
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