Jakob James joins Pieces of Impact to talk about his journey from Cincinnati to Ohio State and Toledo, and what big-time college football really teaches you about discipline, adversity, and long-term growth. We go behind the scenes on game week preparation, locker room dynamics, NIL, the transfer portal, and what it takes to earn trust inside a top program.

We also discuss life after football, how to handle setbacks, and why Jakob believes instant gratification is the biggest trap. If you’re building something in your own life, this episode is a reminder that real progress comes from doing the small things right, over and over again.

00:00 Introduction and Background of Jakob James

02:47 Transitioning from High School to College Football

05:58 Recruitment Journey to Ohio State

08:42 Adjusting to College Life and Training

11:54 Experiences with Coaches and Training Staff

14:55 Strength and Conditioning at Ohio State

18:00 Navigating Coaching Changes and Team Dynamics

20:57 The Impact of NIL and Transfer Portal on College Football

24:06 Game Week Structure and Expectations

26:45 Conclusion and Future Outlook

33:09 Weekly Practice Breakdown

39:03 Game Day Rituals

45:35 Navigating the Transfer Portal

52:02 The Future of College Football

01:03:15 Adversity and Development in Sports

01:10:51 Roster Restructuring in College Football

01:15:58 The Importance of Off-Field Environment

01:17:02 Transitioning from Ohio State to Toledo

01:21:20 The Coaching Path and Its Challenges

01:23:59 Lessons from Adversity

01:25:30 Exploring Future Career Paths

01:27:24 Rapid Fire Round: Toughest Opponents

01:30:43 Memorable Game Environments

01:33:13 Proposed Changes to College Football

01:36:09 A Day of Freedom and Reflection

01:37:20 Final Wisdom and Takeaways

Adam Breneman is a former college football player turned broadcaster and entrepreneur. In this episode, we talk about how he reinvented himself after football, the mentors and moments that shaped his mindset, and why he believes “volume negates luck” when you’re trying to build something real.

We also get into the business behind his content: how he earns trust and access with coaches, how brand partnerships actually work when you have real attention, why he likes equity as the upside play, and why real estate is a foundational long-term strategy. If you enjoy conversations with builders, operators, and people creating momentum, subscribe for more.

00:00 — Intro + what Adam’s building now

01:11 — Career pivots + leaving football identity behind

10:40 — The trait Adam sees in successful people (“will things to happen”)

11:51 — Herm Edwards mentorship + leadership + perspective

19:51 — Big Ten / college football talk (favorite stadiums, underrated programs)

24:22 — Adam’s weekly cadence + offseason tour plan (12 schools in ~15 days)

28:00 — Why he loves real estate + how he got started

31:55 — His wealth stack: cash-flow engine vs equity upside vs real estate preservation

36:09 — Trust, access, and why he won’t trade relationships for “breaking news”

40:13 — Final wisdom: “volume negates luck” + “no one’s thinking about you”

In this episode of the Pieces of Impact podcast, I sit down with Spencer Wonder, founder of Terra Firma Tackle. We talk about Spencer’s path from marine science and teaching to building a tackle company, what it looks like to run a product business with a small team, and why reputation and quality control matter.

We also get into great white sharks, how land-based shark fishing is changing fast, and why social media and drone fishing can create real risk for the future of the sport if the content reaches the wrong audience.

00:00 Introduction to Spencer Wonder

02:58 Spencer's Journey in Fishing and Education

06:03 The Business of Tackle and Gear

08:47 Adventures in Extreme Fishing

12:01 Unique Fish Caught and Future Goals

14:46 Business Aspirations and Future Plans

18:01 Networking and Community in Fishing

20:50 Great White Sharks and Conservation

24:02 The Responsibility of Fishing in the Public Eye

27:02 Misunderstandings in Land-Based Shark Fishing

29:44 A Day in the Life of Spencer Wonder

35:20 Navigating Challenges in Business

39:48 Lessons from Pre-Orders and Customer Service

41:05 The Impact of COVID-19 on Business Growth

43:30 Leveraging Social Media for Success

45:13 The Importance of Language and Culture in Travel

48:48 Adventures in South America and Africa

54:27 The Art of Fishing: Techniques and Experiences

01:00:02 Rapid Fire Insights and Personal Favorites

Steve sits down with Dylan Wier and Blaine Kenny of Coastal Worldwide to talk about what it really takes to build a fishing business and a media brand that lasts. They share how they met, how the company evolved from an earlier venture, and why they hire for character and attention to detail before fishing experience.

The conversation dives into how they think about social media as a long game, why each platform needs its own strategy, and how staying authentic matters more than chasing views. They also break down the reality of sponsorships and why they only promote products they genuinely trust.

They also get real about the responsibility that comes with land based shark fishing, including ethics, safety rules, education, and why protecting the future of the sport matters. Plus, behind the scenes on what a full beach charter day looks like, and a few rapid fire favorites at the end.

00:00
Introduction to the Guests and Their Backgrounds
02:40
The Formation of Coastal Worldwide
05:24
Hiring Process and Character Evaluation
08:31
Business Strategy and Social Media Focus
11:36
Success and Future Goals
14:43
Social Media Platforms and Content Creation
17:33
Engagement and Audience Connection
20:15
Brand Partnerships and Sponsorships
34:54
Navigating Brand Deals and Sponsorships
50:49
The Future of Shark Fishing and Ethical Practices
01:09:03
The Unique Fishing Experience
01:10:28
Creating Lasting Memories
01:11:51
Delivering Value Beyond the Catch
01:12:48
The Importance of Hiring the Right People
01:17:13
Great White Shark Encounters
01:20:41
Influences in Content Creation
01:23:48
The Emotional Connection with Viewers
01:25:50
Wisdom and Happiness in Sharing Experiences

In this episode of Pieces of Impact, I sit down with Erick Dent, a Charleston based photographer and fly fisherman whose life revolves around the outdoors.

We talk about balancing photography with fly fishing, building a personal brand through consistent work, and the unique challenges of fishing and filming in Charleston. The conversation also dives into fly fishing itself, including mindset, ethics, fly tying, and the philosophy behind catch and release. Along the way, we touch on wildlife encounters, DIY projects, and why time in nature has a way of cutting through the noise.

About Erick: 

Erick Dent is a photographer based in Charleston, South Carolina, dedicated to promoting an active outdoor lifestyle. He has been shooting professionally for over 10 years, including several years as a full time photographer for Vineyard Vines, with work ranging from the Kentucky Derby to the Everglades.

Born and raised on the Gulf Coast of Florida, Erick developed a deep connection to the ocean and the natural world, preparing him to work in demanding environments where heat, cold, bugs, and sharks are part of the job. Outside of photography, he’s a semi-pro fly angler, practiced bush mechanic, amateur tailor, intentional vagabond, and animal control expert, to name a few.

00:00 Introduction to Erick Dent and His Journey

05:06 Life in Connecticut and Transition to Charleston

09:49 The Shift in Work Culture and Leaving Vineyard Vines

15:02 Daily Life and Photography in Fishing

20:07 Building Partnerships with Brands

24:45 Fishing Techniques and Experiences in Charleston

27:47 The Nuances of Fishing and Photography

33:09 Wildlife Encounters and Nature's Beauty

37:57 The Challenges of Fishing and Filming

43:01 Final Thoughts on Fishing and Life Lessons

51:46 Navigating the Challenges of Fly Fishing

54:36 The Ethics of Technology in Fishing

58:10 The Art and Science of Fly Tying

01:00:37 Catch and Release: A Fisherman's Philosophy

01:01:36 The Balance of Gear and Technique

01:04:49 Capturing the Moment: Photography on the Water

01:07:53 Exploring Diverse Fishing Species

01:10:37 Planning Fishing Trips: Strategy and Research

01:13:49 The Joy of DIY: Crafting and Tailoring

01:18:58 Understanding Wildlife: Animal Control Insights

01:22:57 Rapid Fire Round: Insights and Reflections

01:33:37 Final Thoughts: The Importance of Nature

Want to get your health and wellness in order without overcomplicating it? In this quick solo episode, Steve breaks it down into three simple pillars anyone can follow: diet, movement, and sleep.

Diet: learn your intake by tracking calories
Movement: hit 10,000 steps a day in easy chunks
Sleep: build toward 7.5 to 8.5 hours with simple habits like consistent bedtimes, morning sunlight, and a short walk after dinner

Save this as a simple reset you can come back to anytime.

00:00
Intro: The Only 3 Things You Actually Need for Better Health
01:05
Diet: Gaining Awareness on Food Intake
05:25
Movement: 10,000 steps a Day
07:05
Sleep: Aim for 7.5-8.5 Hours Per Night
12:26
Wrapping Up

In this episode of Pieces of Impact, I sit down with Michael Hughes, an accomplished business leader who has helped take two Silicon Valley companies public by growing revenue, building high performing teams, and leading with energy.

Michael’s career spans Cincinnati, Chicago, Detroit, London, the Bay Area, and now Lake Tahoe, with leadership roles at companies like Barracuda Networks and ChargePoint, where he led revenue operations through NYSE IPOs. Today, he serves as President at 1Password, a global leader in identity and security.

Beyond the resume, this conversation explores the human side of leadership. We talk about hiring for energy and attitude over experience, the role of empathy and relationships in building great teams, and how adaptability has shaped Michael’s career.

We also discuss mentorship, recognizing personal weaknesses, and why every milestone is just another stepping stone rather than the finish line.

We touch on the realities of remote work, especially for younger professionals, the future of hybrid teams, and how emerging technologies like autonomous vehicles may reshape how we live and work.

00:00 Introduction to Michael Hughes

03:09 Michael's Career Journey

06:02 Lessons in Leadership and Self-Awareness

09:02 Hiring for High Performance

11:57 Choosing the Right Company and Boss

15:06 The Importance of Mentorship

18:05 Building Effective Teams

20:55 Connecting Employees to the Mission

23:53 Measuring Success and Activity

27:04 Cultural Sensitivity in Business

30:09 Navigating Corporate Acquisitions

37:25 Navigating Private Equity Acquisitions

42:12 The Venture Capital Landscape

49:32 Lessons from Startup Challenges

57:53 Advice for the Next Generation

01:09:17 The Future of Work: Remote vs. In-Office

01:11:42 The Importance of In-Person Work

01:12:52 The Evolution of Office Spaces

01:14:52 Innovations in Work Environments

01:16:32 The Future of Autonomous Vehicles

01:21:09 The Impact of Autonomous Technology on Society

01:24:53 Rapid Fire Insights and Personal Reflections

In this episode of Pieces of Impact, Steve Seger sits down with entrepreneur Jake Reisig. Jake is a Partner at Bluegrass Wealth Ventures and co-owner of Jeannie’s Cleaning, with experience spanning investment sales, real estate operations, and business ownership. Previously, he advised property owners and investors at Capstone Companies. He’s also the founder of RateMyCollegeLandlord.com and studied Finance at Xavier University.

00:00
Introduction to Jake
03:11
Jake's Upbringing and Early Influences
06:10
The Role of Sports in Jake's Life
08:56
Transition to College and Entrepreneurial Spirit
11:55
College Experience and Business Ventures
18:01
Advice for College Students and Finding Opportunities
20:49
Networking and Building Relationships
23:57
The Importance of Passion in Business
27:11
Long-Term Investment Strategies
33:00
Current Business Ventures and Real Estate Focus
39:01
Understanding the Power of Ownership
43:01
Investment Strategies and Raising Capital
46:13
Acquisition of a Cleaning Company
49:56
The Role of an Operator in Business
54:48
Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights
59:47
Final Thoughts and Wisdom on Ownership

In this episode of Pieces of Impact, Steve Seger sits down with Bret Halsey, a former professional soccer player turned real estate investor, to discuss his transition from athletics to business. Bret reflects on competing at the highest level, including guarding Lionel Messi, navigating major health setbacks, and applying the same discipline and resilience to building a multifamily real estate portfolio. The conversation explores risk management, networking, intentional growth, and the parallels between elite sports performance and long term success in real estate.

00:00 From Soccer Dreams to Real Estate Ventures

03:05 Navigating the College Soccer Landscape

06:01 The Transition to Professional Soccer

09:00 Facing Adversity: Health Challenges in Pro Sports 12:11 The Shift to Real Estate Investing

14:58 Building a Real Estate Portfolio

17:57 The Journey with FC Cincinnati

20:54 The Impact of Networking in Sports and Business 23:50 Playing Against Legends: The Messi Experience

27:05 The Decision to Go Full-Time in Real Estate

29:47 Refining Strategies in Real Estate Investing

32:56 The Evolution of a Real Estate Entrepreneur

35:46 Looking Ahead: Future Goals and Aspirations

44:59 Scaling for Success in Real Estate

48:13 Understanding Risk and Leverage

51:18 Prospecting for Deals: The Cold Calling Advantage 54:03 Evolving Business Models: From Small to Large Properties

58:17 Learning from Challenges: Contractor Experiences 01:05:40 Starting Over: Building a Real Estate Business 01:08:36 Defining Key Real Estate Terms

01:14:40 Long-Term Vision: Goals and Growth in Real Estate 01:18:52 Rapid Fire Insights: Personal Reflections and Wisdom

In this episode of Pieces of Impact, I sit down with Tom Rowland for a wide ranging conversation about building a life with intention. Tom shares how his path took him from Tennessee to becoming a fishing guide in Key West, and eventually into television, podcasting, and media.

We also dive into how media is changing. Tom shares his perspective on YouTube, streaming, sponsorships, and where fishing content is headed next. We explore emerging technology, from wearable devices and smart glasses to how AI is reshaping content creation and work itself. The conversation touches on fitness, presence, and learning to enjoy the process rather than rushing toward outcomes.

00:00 Introduction to Tom Rowland's Journey

02:45 From Wrestling to Guiding: The Early Years

05:59 The Transition to Key West and Guiding Career

08:53 Building a Television Career in Fishing

12:05 Navigating Success and Fear of Success

15:05 Finding the Right Friends and Support

18:07 The Evolution of Podcasting and Media

20:58 Helping Others Achieve Their Goals

23:54 Overcoming Challenges and Defining Success

37:30 The Competitive Landscape of Redfish Tournaments 39:02 Understanding Sponsorships in Fishing

42:12 Building an Audience for Sponsorship Success

45:02 Transitioning from Tournaments to Television

46:30 The Importance of Being a Good Ambassador

50:01 Navigating Sponsorship Challenges

52:30 The Impact of Audience Growth on Personal Life 52:58 The Evolution of Media in Fishing

56:27 The Future of Content Creation and Technology 01:01:45 The Role of AI in the Fishing Industry

01:13:44 The Future of Work: Embracing Manual Labor 01:15:30 Fitness Journey: From Wrestling to CrossFit 01:27:39 The Evolution of Training: CrossFit and Beyond 01:34:25 Finding Happiness in the Journey

01:42:25 Wisdom and Influence: The Value of Your Audience