From Combat Zones to Community Hubs: Jake Harriman's Journey of Servant Leadership

I first heard about Jake Harriman by way of his guest appearance on The Jocko Willink Podcast. Immediately I was drawn to his mission, heart and bias for action. Jake Harriman is a former US Marine Commander who spent more than a decade abroad defending our nation from enemies, terrorism and other global threats. But when Jake retired from active military duty and returned to America, in his words, he no longer recognized the nation he had spent so many years defending. Jake quickly saw that Americans were at war with one another. Rather than just lamenting this sad situation, Jake decided to do something about it, and you'll learn all about that in today's episode.

More About Our Wise Guest - Jake Harriman

Jake Harriman graduated with distinction from the United States Naval Academy and served seven and a half years in the US Marine Corps as a platoon commander in both the infantry and force recon. Following his service in the military, Jake enrolled at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. Following his service in the military, Jake enrolled at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. While at Stanford, he founded Nuru International to eradicate extreme poverty in the world's most unstable, vulnerable regions, to help end violent extremism. Jake also played a vital role in drafting, introducing and passing groundbreaking new legislation called the Global Fragility Act of 2019 that equips America with new authorities and resources to prevent conflict and stabilize some of the most fragile regions around the world.

Today, Jake is the founder and president of More Perfect Union, a veteran-led civic organization that works to unite the country and strengthen our communities through social connection, service and civic engagement.

Resources

More Perfect Union website

Nuru International website

Jake Harriman on LinkedIn

Credits

Editor + Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss

Brand + Strategy Advisor Andy Malinoski

PR + Partnerships Advisor Rachel Bell

Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Chloe Lineberg

Stay Connected with Us on Social

YouTube @themainthingpod

Twitter @themainthingpod

Instagram @themainthingpod

Facebook  @TheMainThingPod

LinkedIn

Help Support and Sustain This Podcast

1. Become a subscriber.
2. Share the podcast with one or two friends.
3. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod
4. Buy some Main Thing Merch from our Merchandise Store.
5. Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on bookshop.org.
6. Become a patron and support us on Patreon with funding.

Episode Chapters

[0:03:55] - Wisdom gleaned in West Virginia

[0:05:25] - Transformed by combat

[0:06:30] - Jake has an epiphany in Southern Iraq

[0:11:23] - Lasting meaningful choices; a life focused on mitigating poverty

[0:13:40] - Jake’s move to Kenya; challenges, establishing roots, making impact

[0:15:55] - A pivotal conversation with Philip

[0:17:38] - Jake returns to America; a heartbreaking realization

[0:25:38] - Jake shares his Main Thing

[0:30:19] - An all-hand-on-deck time for America and its citizens

Episode Keywords

Wisdom, Servant, Leadership, Marines, Naval Academy, Commander, Poverty, Conflict, Military, More Perfect Union, Community Engagement, West Virginia, Resilience, Integrity, Combat, Iraq, Force Recon, Kenya, Service, Civics, Dehumanization

Creative expression comes in many forms—and it’s not limited to the arts. Creative expression can be a tremendous, strategic advantage in business, too. The rich, full life of our guest, Bryan Boyd, is a perfect illustration of this wisdom truth.

Musical Journeys Meet Marketing Mastery 

In this rich, colorful wisdom conversation with Bryan Boyd, the ingenious artist and musician, you will discover how someone can blend art, music and entrepreneurship synergistically and successfully.

Fresh off a notable performance where he shared the stage with KC and the Sunshine Band, Bryan sheds light on his journey through the realms of business and music. As a leader in marketing and design, Bryan unveils unconventional strategies for cultivating client trust and success authentically and effectively.

Discover how urgency and passion, guided by the wisdom of Joseph Campbell's "follow your bliss," can drive excellence in professional and personal spheres. We explore the importance of balancing these principles, not just in business but in nurturing our personal relationships as well.

Bryan's insights promise to leave you motivated, reminding us all that passion, coupled with purposeful actions, can indeed create a lasting impact on those around us.

A Bit More About Our Wise Guest - Bryan Boyd

Bryan Boyd hails from the coalfields of southern West Virginia. He’s the son of legendary, hall-of-fame basketball coach, Jennings Boyd, who guided Northfork High School to eight consecutive AA state championships from 1974 to 1981.

Bryan is a gifted musician and vocalist. He performs regularly in three diverse groups including The Velvet Brothers (a Vegas-style show band),  Central Standard Time (progressive and contemporary jazz) and Combo Latino (latin fusion).

An artist and designer by degree and profession, Bryan continues to explore creative expression through many forms, including visual art and songwriting. He’s been a supporter and member for four decades of the arts and related charitable organizations in our region. An avid fisherman and dog lover, Bryan resides in Charleston, WV with his wife Mary and their one-year-old Australian Shepherd, Rufus.

Settle in and get ready. Over the next 30 minutes, you will discover why Bryan Boyd is one of the wisest people I know.

Resources

Bryan Boyd Creative Group website

Wikipedia page of author Joseph Campbell (mentioned by Bryan in this episode)

The Velvet Brothers Facebook page

Credits

Editor + Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss

Brand + Strategy Advisor Andy Malinoski

PR + Partnerships Advisor Rachel Bell

Graphic Design + Social Media Chloe Lineberg

Stay Connected with Us on Social

YouTube @themainthingpod

Twitter @themainthingpod

Instagram @themainthingpod

Facebook  @TheMainThingPod

LinkedIn

How Can You Help Support the Growth of this Podcast?

1. Become a subscriber.
2. Share the podcast with one or two friends.
3. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod
4. Buy some Main Thing Merch from our Merchandise Store.
5. Become a patron of the show and support us on Patreon with funding.
6. Purchase a book from our curated collection on Bookshop.

Episode Chapters

[0:03:13] - A hot performance on stage; opening up for KC & The Sunshine Band

[0:06:28] - Bryan’s journey with music; which came first:  music or art?

[0:08:51] - How Skip and Bryan are connected

[0:10:20] - Client Confidence Through Listening and Creativity

[0:12:12] - Doodling, sketching or translating?

[0:17:46] - Bryan Boyd reveals his Main Thing wisdom nugget

[0:18:21] - The Power of urgency and passion

[0:22:15] - Applying Bryan’s main thing in family life

[0:24:48] - What happens when you follow your bliss

[0:26:20] - A recognition of joy

Episode Keywords

Wisdom, Creativity, Marketing, Advertising, Client, Trust, Success, Passion, Urgency, Joseph Campbell, Bliss, Family, Balance, Satisfaction, Fulfillment

A productive, peaceful workday morning in 2002, suddenly shifted into a frenzy of quick decision-making and high-profile event planning. What turned it? An unexpected phone call from the White House transformed that ordinary Wednesday into something truly extraordinary. Join me, Skip Lineberg, on "The Main Thing Podcast" as we explore a remarkable tale of seizing unexpected opportunities.

Seizing Serendipity: A 4th of July to Remember

When my former company, Maple Creative, was invited to assist with President George W. Bush's 4th of July 2002 visit to Ripley, West Virginia, it was all thanks to a former student intern who remembered us. This unexpected opportunity highlights the significance of relationships and the ripple effect they can have on our lives and careers. Beyond that, this unique story illustrates the power of saying “Yes,” even when you don’t yet have all the answers or resources. Join us on this wisdom journey and discover how such moments can shape our lives and careers in the most unforeseen ways.

Where’s the Special Guest and What’s a “Skip’s Quip?"

We are doing something a little different. I’ll be sharing a wisdom lesson with you—but there won’t be a guest. Just me, sharing wisdom. A short wisdom lesson - about 10 minutes total. We plan to do these about 6 times a year. We’re calling these special editions - “Skip’s Quips.”

Don’t worry, we will still bring you wisdom conversations with our special guests twice a month. Additionally, you will receive “Skip’s Quips” to supplement to our regular wisdom programming. Let us know what you think, and please share your feedback. You can do that via SpeakPipe.

For More Information About Skip Lineberg

Please visit our website.

Credits

Editor + Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss

Brand + Strategy Advisor Andy Malinoski

PR + Partnerships Advisor Rachel Bell

Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Chloe Lineberg

Stay Connected with Us on Social

YouTube @themainthingpod

Twitter @themainthingpod

Instagram @themainthingpod

Facebook  @TheMainThingPod

LinkedIn

TikTok @TheMainThingPod

Help Support and Sustain This Podcast

1. Become a subscriber.
2. Share the podcast with one or two friends.
3. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod
4. Buy some Main Thing Merch from our Merchandise Store.
5. Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on bookshop.org.
6. Become a patron and support us on Patreon with funding.

What if your life could become a masterpiece of intentional creativity? Join us as we explore this possibility with Pia Leichter, an author, founder, creative director and guide in this special 30-minute episode.

Celebrating the Creative Potential Within Us All

In our conversation with Pia, we dive into the essence of creativity as a vital force beyond the arts, challenging the common misconception that it exists solely in artistic endeavors. She shares insights on how creativity is akin to teaching and coaching, requiring courage and the willingness to embrace uncertainty. We also explore creativity in unexpected domains, from science to law, and highlight its universality, encouraging everyone to recognize their inherent creative potential, irrespective of their field or background.

Shared wisdom and stories, like Pia’s rather spontaneous decision to take a four-week journey on the Trans-Siberian Railway, illustrate how we hold the power to rewrite our narratives. We also delve into practical steps for nurturing creativity in everyday life, from morning routines to visualizing desired outcomes, empowering listeners to take control of their own creative destinies.

A Bit More About Our Wise Guest

Pia Leichter is a creative partner, published author, certified coach, and entrepreneur. Influenced by her mother’s boldness and her father's artistic background, creativity for Pia Leichter is not limited to traditional art forms. Instead it is a way of life that permeates every decision and every moment.

Pia’s journey from Canada to New York and eventually Copenhagen has been nothing short of transformative. A recovering nomad, she’s reported as a journalist in Sri Lanka, graduated summa cum laude from NYU, and worked as an award-winning creative director for some of the biggest brands in the world. Now, as the founder of Kollektiv Studio, she’s uniquely positioned to co-create ventures and wild visions. 

Pia recently published a book titled, “Welcome to the Creative Club.” Her book is part memoir and part guidebook, and it will challenge everything you thought you knew about creativity.

She joins us from her home in Copenhagen, Denmark. Over the next hour, you will discover why Pia Leichter is one of the wisest people I know.

Resources

Pia’s website Kollektiv Studio

Get Pia’s book “Welcome to the Creative Club” via our Bookshop or via Amazon

Credits

Editor + Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss

Brand + Strategy Advisor Andy Malinoski

PR + Partnerships Advisor Rachel Bell

Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Chloe Lineberg

Stay Connected with Us on Social

YouTube @themainthingpod

Twitter @themainthingpod

Instagram @themainthingpod

Facebook  @TheMainThingPod

LinkedIn

Help Support and Sustain This Podcast

1. Become a subscriber.
2. Share the podcast with one or two friends.
3. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod
4. Buy some Main Thing Merch from our Merchandise Store.
5. Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on bookshop.org.
6. Become a patron and support us on Patreon with funding.

Episode Chapters

0:06:00 - Are we all born with creativity, or just a few?

0:11:15 - The courage to embrace uncertainty

0:13:24 - Moving with trust instead of fear

0:18:16 - Wisdom versus knowledge

0:24:30 - Pia’s work as creative advisor to rebels, dreamers and misfits

0:30:35 - Pia shares her Main Thing wisdom nugget

0:36:13 - Overcoming fear; the power of choice

0:38:18 - Sovereignty and awareness in life’s experiences

0:41:19 - Creating your desired experience

0:46:12 - Exploring Pia’s new book “Welcome to the Creative Club”

0:50:51 - Reclaiming your creative power

0:54:02 - Pia’s closing thought: embracing uncertainty when creating

Taylor Kennedy is a talented, young sports journalist whose career is off to a blazing start, despite some early adversity. He joins us on this episode to share his inspiring journey through the world of sports journalism and mental health.

The Journey: From Panic Attacks to Professional Excellence

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Keeping with that theme, Taylor shares openly about his experiences with anxiety and panic attacks. In our conversation, Taylor speaks candidly about facing these challenges head-on and the strength he found in vulnerability. His story is a powerful reminder of the importance of speaking out and seeking support when needed, as well as the impact that mentorship and shared experiences can have on our lives.

Taylor's passion for sports, sparked by his father's influence, shines through as he talks about his current job, covering regional sports for his state’s largest newspaper. You’ll hear the pride he takes in creating lasting memories for young athletes. Through anecdotes from Taylor's own days of scholastic sports, listeners are treated to heartwarming stories of camaraderie and the life lessons imparted by coaches. In a heartfelt closing chapter, Taylor recounts the transformative mentorship he received from Tony Caridi and the invaluable guidance he soaked up during his remarkable five-year stint at MetroNews Network.

More About Our Wise Guest - Taylor Kennedy

Taylor Kennedy is a sports reporter and columnist for the Charleston Gazette-Mail under the HD Media umbrella. Taylor's primary coverage area is the Kanawha Valley of West Virginia, where he focuses upon high school sports, with an occasional splash in WVU and Marshall college athletics. In his spare time, he enjoys watching sports.

Taylor has worked alongside a few of West Virginia's most influential media icons, including Tony Caridi, Hoppy Kercheval and Fred Persinger. He served for several years as Producer of the podcast “Three Guys Before the Game.” Taylor is a graduate of West Virginia University. He resides in Charleston, West Virginia.

Resources

Connect with Taylor on Facebook

Three Guys Before the Game podcast webpage

Charleston Gazette-Mail website: prep sports

Credits

Editor + Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss

Brand + Strategy Advisor Andy Malinoski

PR + Partnerships Advisor Rachel Bell

Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Chloe Lineberg

Stay Connected with Us on Social

YouTube @themainthingpod

Twitter @themainthingpod

Instagram @themainthingpod

Facebook  @TheMainThingPod

LinkedIn

Help Support and Sustain This Podcast

1. Become a subscriber.
2. Share the podcast with one or two friends.
3. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod
4. Buy some Main Thing Merch from our Merchandise Store.
5. Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on bookshop.org.
6. Become a patron and support us on Patreon with funding.

Episode Chapters

[0:05:49] - How Skip and Taylor are connected; youth sports; impact of coaches

[0:08:35] - Arriving early to the gym or ball field; taking in the scene

[0:11:17] - Taylor’s pivotal post on Facebook; sharing with vulnerability

[0:13:22] - Navigating panic attacks and mental health

[0:22:30] - Taylor shares his main thing wisdom lesson

[0:24:22] - Mentorship and gratitude; a father and another "father figure" emerges

[0:29:20] - Saturdays with our fathers; WVU football on the radio

[0:34:25] - Shattering the stigma: caring for our mental wellness

Valerie Hart is a coach, guide and company co-founder. She has coached me, hypnotized me, led me on hikes and introduced me to such concepts as QiGong and reframing. In the course of our work together over the past 3 years, she has become my good friend, as well.

Valerie’s Wisdom Journey from Science to Serenity

Valerie Hart is a former FBI forensic scientist who gave up a coveted, big-city career path in favor of the narrower, wooded paths and moss-lined trails deep in the Monongahela Forest.

In this deep, authentic wisdom conversation, you will discover why Valerie made that transition. Plus you’ll learn about:

• The incredible power of intuition
• How to listen for and connect with your inner voice
• Tapping into the inner wisdom that’s already present deep within your soul
• An upcoming guided nature event with a special discount for listeners

More About Our Wise Guest - Valerie Hart

A lifelong nature enthusiast, Valerie grew up exploring the wild, wonderful woods of West Virginia. As co-founder of Wonder and Grow and coordinator of Randolph County Outdoors, Valerie helps others cultivate awareness, trust their inner wisdom and deepen their connection with the natural world.

This former FBI forensic scientist is now a certified mindful outdoor guide, certified interpretive guide, mindful communication facilitator, yoga instructor and West Virginia master naturalist. In her free time, Valerie finds joy in climbing trees, singing, backpacking, fossil hunting, petting moss and savoring coffee on her front porch. Valerie and her family live in Elkins, West Virginia.

Now, a deep, cleansing breath in … and release—slowly exhaling. Over the next 25 minutes you will discover why Valerie Hart is one of the wisest people I know.

Resources

Wonder and Grow website

Wild Edge Retreat - Spruce Knob - Aug. 7-10, 2025 - registration page

Connect with Valerie on LinkedIn

Credits

Editor + Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss

Brand + Strategy Advisor Andy Malinoski

PR + Partnerships Advisor Rachel Bell

Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Chloe Lineberg

Stay Connected with Us on Social

YouTube @themainthingpod

Twitter @themainthingpod

Instagram @themainthingpod

Facebook  @TheMainThingPod

LinkedIn

Help Support and Sustain This Podcast

1. Become a subscriber.
2. Share the podcast with one or two friends.
3. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod
4. Buy some Main Thing Merch from our Merchandise Store.
5. Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on bookshop.org.
6. Become a patron and support us on Patreon with funding.

Episode Chapters

[0:04:30] - How Skip and Valerie are connected

[0:05:30] - Working at the FBI

[0:10:58] - Valerie shares her main thing

[0:12:00] - Intuition - what is it; and how to tap into it?

[0:14:08] - Why surprise is not a bad thing

[0:18:07] - All about the upcoming Wild Edge Retreat - Aug. 2025

[0:20:58] - Journaling and noticing

What if you could redefine your identity beyond titles and roles? How do you know which path to take when you come upon a fork in the road along life’s journey? Join us, as we explore these profound questions with our remarkably wise guest, Dave Schutter.

From Military to Ministry - Dave Schutter’s Wisdom Journey

Our special guest Dave Schutter had his sights set on a military career, dreaming of an appointment to West Point. But God had a different plan for his life. From his dreams of West Point to a transformative mission trip to Albania, Dave's journey is a testament to adaptability, faith and finding purpose. Together, we unravel the intricate balance of separating who we are from what we do, sharing experiences from his time as a military chaplain in Afghanistan and his work in pastoral ministry. It's an engaging conversation steeped in life's simple joys and the wisdom found in unexpected places.

More about Pastor Dave Schutter

Dave is a military veteran, a pastor and a pizza aficionado. Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, as the son of a military man, Dave dreamed of attending West Point, but a sports injury prevented him from passing the fitness entrance exam. He didn't give up on that dream and years later Dave qualified for that appointment to the US Military Academy at West Point. But he turned down that opportunity in favor of something different.

Today, Dave leads the congregation at Northwest Presbyterian Church as Senior Pastor. Notably in Dave's life, he served as a military Chaplain in the US Army, including an active deployment in Afghanistan. That tour of duty earned him the prestigious Bronze Star.

Dave Schutter graduated with a Master of Divinity degree from Covenant Theological Seminary in 1997 and earned a Master of Theology degree from Westminster Seminary in 2017. He completed his undergraduate studies at Miami (Ohio) University in 1993. Dave is also a contributor to the Jonathan Edwards Encyclopedia (Eerdmans, Fall 2017) and the Jonathan Edwards Global Sermon Editing Project.

Dave, his wife Kim, and their three children live in the Columbus Ohio area.

Resources

Connect with Dave on LinkedIn

Link to website for Dave’s church - Northwest Presbyterian Church

Credits

Editor + Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss

Brand + Strategy Advisor Andy Malinoski

PR + Partnerships Advisor Rachel Bell

Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Chloe Lineberg

Stay Connected with Us on Social

YouTube @themainthingpod

Twitter @themainthingpod

Instagram @themainthingpod

Facebook  @TheMainThingPod

LinkedIn

Help Support and Sustain This Podcast

1. Become a subscriber.
2. Share the podcast with one or two friends.
3. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod
4. Buy some Main Thing Merch from our Merchandise Store.
5. Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on bookshop.org.
6. Become a patron and support us on Patreon with funding.

Episode Chapters

[0:03:48] - Skip and Dave pontificate on their shared love of pizza

[0:05:48] - Dave’s family military legacy; dreams of West Point

[0:07:11] - How Skip and Dave are connected

[0:08:50] - Dave shares his main thing

[0:10:17] - Identity; Solid advice from a mentor in South Dakota

[0:14:16] - Pain points, feelings of shame and wondering if we are enough

[0:18:39] - A pivotal trip to Albania

[0:21:10] - Dave shares a final thought

###

Our special, wise guest, Anita Stubenrauch, is one of the most creative people I’ve ever met. She's a writer, speaker, podcaster and entrepreneur. Our paths crossed when she delivered the keynote speech at a conference I attended last November in Austin, TX. Immediately after her presentation, I knew we had to have her on the show.

Anita is a former Apple creative professional who spent a significant chunk of her career at Apple's headquarters in Cupertino, California. While working at Apple, Anita was tapped to write the Apple Credo. She also created  presentations seen by Steve Jobs and other members of his executive leadership team.

After leaving Apple, Anita founded a retreat space nestled in the mountains of California. It's called the Land of Make and Believe. She publishes a high-voltage podcast called "Hyperactive Imagination." Anita also runs a creative consultancy known as Cause Effect Creative, where she provides guidance to brands and brand builders, executives and entrepreneurs.

In this enriching episode, you'll discover the main thing Anita has learned in her lifetime. Plus, you'll learn about:

• the power of storytelling;
• what it's like to work for one of the world's most storied and admired technology companies;
• and how a creative powerhouse finds her spark and navigates through the wilderness when that spark eludes her.

Anita Stubenrauch joins us today from her home in the hills of Murphys, California. Now buckle up and get ready for a high energy whirlwind experience. Over the next 25 minutes, you will discover why Anita Stubenrauch is one of the wisest people I know.

Resources

Link to Anita’s website Cause:Effect Creative

Link to website for The Land of Make and Believe

Link to podcast site for Hyperactive Imagination

Credits

Editor + Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss

Brand + Strategy Advisor Andy Malinoski

PR + Partnerships Advisor Rachel Bell

Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Chloe Lineberg

Stay Connected with Us on Social

YouTube @themainthingpod

Twitter @themainthingpod

Instagram @themainthingpod

Facebook  @TheMainThingPod

LinkedIn

Help Support and Sustain This Podcast

1. Become a subscriber.
2. Share the podcast with one or two friends.
3. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod
4. Buy some Main Thing Merch from our Merchandise Store.
5. Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on bookshop.org.
6. Become a patron and support us on Patreon with funding.

Episode Chapters

[0:03:06] - How Skip and Anita met; the power of story

[0:05:20] - A fateful visit to the Apple Store in Arizona

[0:10:13] - How Anita was chosen to write the Apple Credo

[0:13:43] - The Apple Credo, read for us by Anita Stubenrauch

[0:16:38] - Anita shares her Main Thing; a time for replenishing

[0:19:35] - Anita’s new venture - The Land of Make and Believe

[0:23:45] - Anita shares a closing thought to encourage us

Hoppy Kercheval, the esteemed “dean of broadcasting” in West Virginia, brings his wealth of experience in journalism to this dynamic episode, offering listeners valuable insights into the art of showing up every day and the transformative power of wisdom.

A Broadcaster's Path to Lifelong Learning and Legacy

Hoppy, renowned for his work in covering public affairs, politics, and sports, shares personal stories that illuminate the importance of being present and recognizing the pivotal moments that define our paths.

We explore Hoppy's unexpected start in journalism during high school, which set him on a remarkable career trajectory, and discuss the subtle signals that might indicate when it's time to step back or retire. Throughout the episode, we underscore the value of lifelong learning and stepping out of comfort zones to embrace diverse perspectives.

Today you will discover Hoppy's main thing, the most important wisdom lesson he wants to share from his lifetime and his career. In this rich, authentic wisdom conversation you'll also learn about: 

• Power of seminal moments to shape life's direction and course;
• What can happen when we're fully present and listening;
• How beautiful results can flow from simply showing up every day.

More About Our Special Guest Hoppy Kercheval

Hoppy Kercheval joined West Virginia Radio Corporation in 1976. A founder of MetroNews, Kercheval served as news director until assuming the role of vice president of operations in 1991. In 1993, he created “Metro News Talk Line,” which became the signature program of the network. Hoppy has received a number of honors over the years, including the Mel Burka Award, which is given to the state's top broadcaster. An avid traveler, Hoppy's adventures have taken him to 19 different countries around the world. He and his wife, Karin, live in Morgantown, West Virginia.

Resources

Link to Hoppy’s company website WV MetroNews

Link to podcast site for 3 Guys Before the Game

Hoppy’s treasured interview with Anthony Bourdain

RAGBRAI website - the bike ride across Iowa

Credits

Editor + Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss

Brand + Strategy Advisor Andy Malinoski

PR + Partnerships Advisor Rachel Bell

Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Chloe Lineberg

Stay Connected with Us on Social

YouTube @themainthingpod

Twitter @themainthingpod

Instagram @themainthingpod

Facebook  @TheMainThingPod

LinkedIn

Help Support and Sustain This Podcast

1. Become a subscriber.
2. Share the podcast with one or two friends.
3. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod
4. Buy some Main Thing Merch from our Merchandise Store.
5. Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on bookshop.org.
6. Become a patron and support us on Patreon with funding.

Episode Chapters

[0:04:53] - Radio careers and riding a bicycle across Iowa;

[0:07:33] - How Hoppy and Skip are connected; Eastern Panhandle roots

[0:10:03] - An opportunity, a nudge and a seminal moment

[0:12:46] - A deciding factor for Hoppy; knowing when it’s time to move on

[0:14:34] - Hoppy shares his Main Thing

[0:18:49] - Reflecting on interviews - the good, the bad and the key to it all

[0:24:33] - Hoppy’s next chapter; future endeavors; and his legacy

[0:28:15] - A parting thought from Hoppy on the value of being fully present

Episode Keywords

Wisdom, Fairness, Transitions, Hoppy, Kercheval, Journalism, WVU, Mountaineers, Broadcasting, Showing Up, Radio, Podcasting, Talk, TalkLine, Seminal, Retirement, Learning, Growth, Understanding, Curiosity, LGBTQ, Interviews, Anthony,  Bourdain, McGraw, Legacy, Balance, Consistency, Dedication, Network, WAJR, WRNR, WXVA, Jefferson, WV, West Virginia, Balance, Credibility, Walter, Cronkite, RAGBRAI, cycling, Iowa, MetroNews

Join us on as we embark on a journey of transition and wisdom with our special guest, Tim Haring, founding pastor of Chestnut Ridge Church. With nearly 40 years of leadership and service, Tim recently shifted into retirement, turning over leadership of the organization to his successor.

From Northern Lights to Spiritual Insights - Wisdom for Navigating Life’s Transitions

Whether you're facing a new leadership role, considering a career change, or moving to a new city, Tim Haring’s reflections provide guidance and encouragement for personal growth and embracing change. Listening to this authentic, soulful and candid conversation, you will come away with—

1. Guidance for navigating life’s major changes, twists and turns
2. Deeper understanding of your emotional and spiritual health
3. Insights on knowing when it’s the right time to retire
4. Hope and encouragement for what’s next

As Tim shares his experiences from recent travels to Norway and Honduras, you will hear how witnessing the Northern Lights and speaking at a conference for church leaders in Honduras have enriched his life.

Our conversation delves into the transformative concept of emotionally healthy spirituality. This newfound understanding of emotions and empathy in ministry opens doors for Tim to support pastors through coaching and mentoring.

Reflecting on his journey, Tim emphasizes the importance of seeking help during major life changes and his ongoing passion for growth, even in retirement. His story inspires us to continually learn and adapt, offering hope and encouragement for anyone navigating transitions.

More About Special Guest Tim Haring

Tim Haring is the Founding Pastor of Chestnut Ridge Church in Morgantown, West Virginia. He recently retired from his position as Senior Pastor, although he will continue to work part-time at the church. In nearly 40 years of pastoral experience, Tim has been instrumental in helping to plant four additional churches in West Virginia. Together, those form the Ridge Network of Churches.

Tim has a pastoral studies degree with a minor in Greek language from Moody Bible Institute and a business degree from West Virginia University.

Tim and his wife, Karen, have been married for 36 years. They have five children, one granddaughter and another grandchild on the way.

Settle in for a whirlwind wisdom journey from Norway to Honduras and from Columbus to Morgantown, where Tim joins us today.

Resources

Tim Haring’s book “When God Walked Alone” on Amazon

Connect with Tim on LinkedIn

Grab a copy of the book “Emotionally Healthy Spirituality” from our BookShop

Connect with Tim on Facebook

Check out the church Tim founded - Chestnut Ridge Church

Credits

Editor + Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss

Brand + Strategy Advisor Andy Malinoski

PR + Partnerships Advisor Rachel Bell

Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Chloe Lineberg

Stay Connected with Us on Social

YouTube @themainthingpod

Twitter @themainthingpod

Instagram @themainthingpod

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Episode Chapters

[0:03:35] - Tim’s recent travels to Norway and Honduras

[0:05:40] - How Tim and Skip are connected 

[0:07:03] - Tim’s transition from founder / leader of Chestnut Ridge to retirement

[0:10:06] - Coping with feelings and emotions related to this major change

[0:12:08] - Tim reveals his Main Thing

[0:13:50] - Emotionally healthy spirituality; Tim candidly shares a weakness

[0:18:25] - Discussion of Tim’s work as an author

[0:20:03] - Tim leaves us with words of encouragement