On this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791, I welcome Leah Linscheid to the Buck & Honey’s remote studios and the Team 212 Training & The AEA Institute Mental Health Desk. Leah joins us to share a powerful story of grief, resilience, and hope—and how one unimaginable phone call changed her life forever.

Raised in the small rural community of Highland, Wisconsin, Leah embraced everything her hometown had to offer. As a three-sport athlete, band member, and choir participant, she thrived in a community that valued hard work, connection, and supporting one another through both triumphs and challenges. Those early experiences helped shape the person she would become.

After high school, Leah attended the University of Wisconsin–Madison, initially planning to pursue a career in law. Along the way, she discovered a passion for journalism and storytelling. That passion led to an internship at WISC-TV3 in Madison and eventually a reporting position at WKBT-TV in La Crosse, where she covered one of the most exciting moments in Wisconsin sports history—the Wisconsin Badgers’ run to the NCAA Final Four.

Soon, WISC-TV3 came calling again, this time with an opportunity to return to Madison as a morning news anchor. Professionally, life was falling into place.

Then, on October 11, 2019, everything changed.

While working at the station, Leah received a phone call from the Iowa County Sheriff’s Department informing her that her younger brother, Levi, had been killed in a single-vehicle accident the night before. Unable to reach her parents, authorities contacted Leah directly. In that moment, she was faced with the heartbreaking task of sharing the devastating news with her family.

In the years that followed, Leah navigated grief, healing, and the difficult journey of moving forward while carrying the memory of someone she loved deeply. Today, she honors Levi’s legacy through a scholarship golf outing and by giving her youngest son Levi’s name as a middle name.

This is a moving conversation about loss, love, family, and finding purpose after heartbreak. You won’t want to miss this inspiring episode of Survive & Thrive 8791. CAN’T WAIT!!!

To reach Leah, message her on her social media platforms: 

Instagram - @leahlinscheid 

Facebook - Leah Linscheid

LinkedIn - Leah Linscheid

On this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791, I welcome Kelly Griego to the Buck & Honey’s remote studios and the Team 212 Training & The AEA Institute Mental Health Desk. Kelly’s story is a powerful example of how life’s most difficult moments can become the foundation for purpose, healing, and service to others.

Like hundreds of thousands of men each year, Kelly experienced the emotional challenges of divorce. As his first marriage began to unravel, he sought counseling in hopes of saving the relationship. Despite those efforts, the marriage ultimately ended, leaving him to navigate feelings of loneliness, sadness, and uncertainty about the future.

During that difficult season, Kelly discovered an outlet that would change his life—running. What began as a way to clear his mind and process his emotions soon became a source of healing. The miles gave him time to reflect, develop healthier coping strategies, and gain perspective on the challenges he was facing. Through counseling, self-reflection, and a commitment to personal growth, Kelly gradually found acceptance and began moving forward.

As he embraced a new chapter in life, Kelly found renewed happiness, eventually remarrying and building a life centered on gratitude and purpose. But his journey didn’t stop there.

Inspired by a friend who was raising money to find a cure for a rare disease affecting their child, Kelly combined his passion for running with a desire to help others. What started as a single fundraising effort grew into a mission. Today, he uses endurance events and community engagement to raise awareness and support for numerous causes, including the International Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva Association (IFOPA), which funds research and advocacy for those living with Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP), an extremely rare genetic disorder.

Kelly’s story reminds us that adversity can become opportunity, and that healing often begins with a single step forward. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn your own challenges into meaningful action, this episode is for you.

You won’t want to miss this inspiring conversation on Survive & Thrive 8791. CAN’T WAIT!!!

On this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791, I welcome Shannon Kenitz to the Buck & Honey’s remote studios and the Team 212 Training & The AEA Institute Mental Health Desk. Shannon joins us to share an extraordinary story of hope, perseverance, and a mother’s unwavering determination to save her daughter’s life. Shannon will also share details about her nonprofit organization's signature fundraising event, Harmonies for Hope, an intimate evening with Grammy Award-winning artist LeAnn Rimes on July 11, 2026, in Madison, Wisconsin. 

A graduate with a degree in psychology, Shannon has spent much of her professional life helping others. Early in her career, she moved to the Pacific Northwest, earned an AODA certification, and worked as a school counselor, encouraging those she served with a simple but powerful message: “You got this.” Little did she know that those same words would one day become a lifeline for her own family.

After welcoming her first daughter, Lily Catherine, Shannon celebrated the birth of her second daughter, Gracie Margaret. Shortly after birth, however, Shannon began noticing episodes in which Gracie would stare blankly into space. Those concerning moments launched a medical journey filled with uncertainty, countless appointments, and consultations with some of the nation’s leading healthcare specialists.

Eventually, Gracie was diagnosed with Mitochondrial Cytochrome C Reductase Deficiency, an extraordinarily rare disease. At the time, she was believed to be one of only five known children in the world with the condition—and the others had not survived past age two. As treatment options dwindled, Shannon was faced with an unimaginable reality. One recommendation was to simply take Gracie home and make her comfortable.

Refusing to give up hope, Shannon discovered Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) through a chance connection with a parent support organization. That discovery changed everything. What began as a desperate search for answers ultimately helped transform Gracie’s future.

Today, Gracie is celebrating her 27th year of life—far beyond what anyone thought possible. Inspired by that journey, Shannon founded the International Hyperbaric Association, helping families access HBOT, supporting research, and advocating for expanded treatment options for individuals facing neurological and other medical challenges.

Her story is a powerful reminder that when hope remains, possibilities remain. You won't want to miss this incredible episode of Survive & Thrive 8791. CAN'T WAIT!!!

On this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791, I welcome Aidan Konop to the Buck & Honey’s remote studios. Aidan is a former University of Wisconsin basketball player and a talented student-athlete whose journey extends far beyond the basketball court. Today, he joins us to share his courageous story of living with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), anxiety, and the challenges of navigating mental health as a high-achieving athlete.

Growing up in Butler, Wisconsin, just outside of Sussex, Aidan was the youngest of three children in a supportive and loving family. Like many young athletes, he spent countless hours playing basketball, inspired by watching his older siblings compete. Basketball quickly became his passion and eventually his identity.

However, during sixth grade, Aidan began experiencing overwhelming anxiety and obsessive thoughts about his appearance and how others perceived him. What started as normal adolescent concerns gradually grew into a daily struggle that affected nearly every aspect of his life. Despite seeking answers from doctors and mental health professionals, relief seemed difficult to find.

Ironically, the game he loved most became both an escape and a source of stress. Aidan became consumed with perfecting his basketball skills, obsessing over his shooting form and constantly questioning whether he was good enough. The pressure he placed on himself created a difficult love-hate relationship with the sport.

Everything began to change near the end of his sophomore year when he connected with a therapist who helped him understand the difference between what his mind was telling him and what was actually true. Through powerful coping strategies, Aidan learned to challenge the “dragon” of OCD and anxiety and replace fear with facts.

His return to basketball led to tremendous success, eventually earning him a preferred walk-on opportunity with the Wisconsin Badgers. Although a chronic pain condition later forced him to medically retire, Aidan continues to inspire others through his openness, resilience, and willingness to share his story.

This is a conversation about mental health, perseverance, and finding hope when life doesn't go according to plan. You won't want to miss this episode Survive & Thrive 8791. CAN'T WAIT!!!

On this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791, I welcome Coach Ron Prochnow to the Buck & Honey’s remote studios. Coach Prochnow recently guided the Reedsville Panthers boys basketball team to its first state championship in 80 years—but the journey to that moment was anything but easy.

Growing up in Markesan, Wisconsin, Ron developed a passion for athletics early in life. After a standout high school career, he attended the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh, where he earned a degree in physical education and health while also excelling as a cross country and track athlete. As a member of the Titans cross country program, Ron helped UW–Oshkosh win three NCAA Division III national championships and earned All-American honors during his senior season.

While in college, he discovered a love for coaching basketball, beginning his coaching career at Lomira High School. After graduation, he accepted a teaching position and worked his way through assistant coaching roles before landing his first varsity head coaching job at Brookwood High School. Later, at Augusta High School, Ron made a pivotal decision to coach the varsity girls basketball team—a move that led to his first state championship in 1996.

Eventually, a desire to return closer to family brought him to Reedsville High School. Early struggles with team chemistry and program relationships caused him to step away from coaching for a period of time. During those years, he focused on family, completed his master’s degree, and gained a renewed perspective on leadership.

When the opportunity to return to coaching came, Ron embraced it. Years later, with his own son entering the varsity program, he was named head boys basketball coach at Reedsville. After several near-misses at the state tournament, the Panthers finally broke through in 2026, capturing the WIAA Division 5 state championship.

Coach Prochnow’s story is one of perseverance, humility, growth, and leadership. This episode is packed with valuable lessons for coaches, educators, parents, and anyone striving to build something meaningful through adversity. You’re not going to want to miss this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791. CAN’T WAIT!!!

On this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791, Coach Tim Decorah takes the mic from the Buck & Honey’s remote studios to share key messages from two impactful keynote presentations—one at the Wisconsin Basketball Coaches Association All-State Banquet and the other at Wisconsin Heights High School.

In the first segment, Coach Decorah reflects on his experience at the WBCA event, where he spoke to players, parents, and coaches about the emotional transition that comes with the end of a high school career. He offers five practical strategies for student-athletes preparing for their senior season or the next level. 

From prioritizing self-care—“put your mask on first”—to unplugging from constant pressure, finding a trusted support system, staying active beyond the game, and having the courage to say, “I need help,” his message is rooted in balance, awareness, and long-term well-being.

In the second half of the episode, Coach Decorah shifts to his keynote at Wisconsin Heights High School, where he focused on decision-making during a critical time of year—prom season. Using the OODA loop, a simple yet powerful four-step framework, he equips students with a tool to make thoughtful, responsible choices in high-pressure situations.

Observe—What’s really happening? Orient—Who am I? What do I stand for? Decide—What’s the right choice? Act—Follow through with confidence.

Whether it’s navigating peer pressure or making everyday decisions, Coach Decorah emphasizes one clear message: don’t react—decide.

This episode is filled with real-world strategies for students, parents, and coaches alike—centered on leadership, accountability, and making choices that align with who you want to become. You won't want to miss this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791. CAN'T WAIT!!!

On this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791, I welcome Justin Kakuska to the Buck & Honey’s remote studios. Justin’s journey is a great reminder that sometimes the smallest opportunities can lead to something much bigger.

After graduating from Waunakee High School, Justin headed to the University of Minnesota Duluth, where his first semester didn’t quite go as planned. With plenty of downtime and not much direction, he found himself searching for purpose. That changed after a chance connection with a women’s hockey team manager. While nothing came of it initially, that same connection reached back out after winter break—offering Justin a chance to help the team.

He jumped at the opportunity, doing whatever was needed—mopping floors, doing laundry, and embracing the behind-the-scenes work that often goes unnoticed. That willingness to serve opened doors. After transferring to the University of Wisconsin–Madison, a connection helped him land interviews with the Badger women’s hockey program, including one with legendary head coach Mark Johnson.

That moment changed everything.

Justin worked his way up from student manager to his current role as Director of Hockey Operations and Video Coordinator. Along the way, he’s been part of one of the most successful programs in college hockey, contributing to five national championship teams.

In this episode, Justin takes us behind the scenes of a championship culture, sharing the highs, the challenges, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. He also reflects on the confidence and trust instilled by Coach Johnson and how that support has shaped his growth.

This is a story about showing up, doing the little things right, and trusting the process.

On this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791, I welcome Jeremy Payne to the Buck & Honey’s remote studios. Jeremy is the Owner and Founder of My Black Carrot LLC Mentoring Hub, Co-Founder of the Black Platteville Community Network, and a Mental Health Service Provider with Comprehensive Community Services in Dane County through Orchestra X Agency. His journey is a powerful story of resilience, leadership, and navigating life’s unexpected identity shifts.

After a standout high school career as a student-athlete, Jeremy set his sights on continuing his football journey at the University of Southern Illinois, where he planned to walk on to the team. However, a coaching change altered that path, and Jeremy was not selected—an experience that deeply impacted his confidence and sense of identity. Facing the weight of expectations from his hometown, he was forced to reassess his direction.

Determined to find a new path, Jeremy made the bold decision to attend the University of Wisconsin–Platteville sight unseen. There, he found renewed purpose, competing in both football and track while stepping into leadership roles that would shape his future. His passion for mentorship emerged as he began working closely with younger students, guiding them through their own transitions.

Following graduation, Jeremy remained in the Platteville area, supporting students at both the University of Wisconsin–Platteville and the University of Dubuque—helping ensure they felt safe, supported, and connected to campus resources.

Jeremy also opens up about key identity pivots that shaped his personal growth. From the disappointment of missed athletic opportunities, to navigating racial tensions and uncertainty during the COVID-19 pandemic, to reconnecting with childhood friends as life paths diverged—each moment challenged him to grow and adapt.

Today, Jeremy uses those experiences to help others manage anxiety, build confidence, and embrace change. His story is a reminder that setbacks don’t define you—how you respond to them does. You won't want to miss this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791. CAN'T WAIT!!!

On this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791, I welcome Meghann Dawson to the Buck & Honey’s remote studios. Dawson’s life story is a powerful testament to resilience, healing, and transformation.

Meghann’s journey began with adversity almost immediately. Born to a young mother at just 15 years old, she developed a serious infection within days of birth that led to complications in her shoulder and hip joints. Damage to her growth plates resulted in numerous surgeries throughout her childhood. As she entered her middle school years—a time when many are discovering their identity—Meghann was navigating life with medical equipment and ongoing physical challenges. In college, she underwent one of her most difficult procedures: arm-lengthening surgery.

Beyond her physical struggles, Meghann also faced a turbulent home life, including an abusive father battling alcohol use disorder. In an effort to cope with both emotional and physical pain, she began experimenting with alcohol at a young age. What started as a coping mechanism evolved into patterns of seeking validation and navigating unhealthy relationships.

In adulthood, Meghann found herself in a marriage that mirrored the instability she grew up with. Determined to break the cycle—especially for her daughter—she made the courageous decision to leave. That decision marked the beginning of a new chapter.

Through therapy, spirituality, and a commitment to personal growth, Meghann began to heal. As she focused on her well-being, the anxiety she had carried for years began to ease. Today, she has built a life rooted in purpose and empowerment.

After a successful career in the credit union industry, Meghann now works as an empowerment coach, helping others reconnect with themselves and embrace self-worth. She is the founder of The Unperfect Life Collective, a keynote speaker, podcast host, and soon-to-be author of Becoming Is Messy—a reflection of her belief that healing is not perfect, but it is possible. You won't want to miss this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791. CAN'T WAIT!!!

On the next episode of Survive & Thrive 8791, I welcome Coach Sean McGann to the Buck & Honey’s remote studios. Following the completion of his eighth season as head boys basketball coach at Sauk-Prairie High School, and fresh off a championship year, Coach McGann joins Coach Tim Decorah for an honest and insightful conversation that goes far beyond the court.

Together, they reflect on the season by sharing their top five boys basketball players they’ve coached against in the Badger Conference—highlighting the talent, competitiveness, and growth they’ve witnessed over the years. But this episode isn’t just about basketball; it’s about the realities of coaching and the strategies that help sustain success over the course of a demanding five-month season.

Coach McGann opens up about the emotional side of coaching, including what it’s like in the postgame locker room after the final game of the season and how he approaches postseason individual meetings with his players—balancing honest feedback with opportunities to listen and grow. He also discusses the importance of team banquets, celebrating accomplishments, and reinforcing culture.

Looking ahead, Coach McGann shares his expectations for the offseason, including spring and summer development, team camps, open gyms, and building accountability within the program. He reflects on how prioritizing mental health—both for himself and his players—played a key role in creating a more balanced, enjoyable, and ultimately successful season.

Recently named Badger Small Conference Coach of the Year, Coach McGann credits continuous learning, collaboration with fellow coaches, and strong relationships with his staff as essential to his growth. This episode offers valuable insight for coaches at any stage, blending practical strategies with a deeper look at leadership, resilience, and the evolving role of mental health in athletics. You won't want to miss this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791. CAN'T WAIT!!!