Chris Hetzner’s journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and calculated risk-taking. Starting out as a lead guitarist in a band and managing high-end restaurants in Los Angeles, Chris honed his leadership and operational skills early on. With an MBA in finance, he transitioned into consulting at Ernst & Young, working with industry giants like Ford and Uber, before moving to Meta to manage billion-dollar budgets and optimize customer service. Despite his corporate achievements, Chris longed for independence and control over his future. In 2018, he purchased his first short-term rental property, sparking the creation of Boost Rentals. Over time, he grew this side hustle into a thriving business, managing 50 properties across the U.S. In April 2024, after years of meticulous planning, Chris left his corporate role to focus entirely on his business. Now, he inspires others to embrace calculated risks, value time as the ultimate currency, and align their lives with their passions.

Starring:

Michael Newborn (@michaelnewborn)

John Ballenger (@john-ballenger53)

Guest:

Chris Hetzner

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

https://www.boost-rentals.com/

Network/Produced by:

Seltzer Kings (@seltzerkings) (seltzerkings.com)

Theme Music by Saint Josh

Listen Here:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/71Uji4fPLsnGEJjeAqomiJ?si=77e3d7bb636c422a

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john/id1707412739

Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a6b369bb-36a9-47ab-9f22-1bacfcff6166/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john

iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-second-act-with-michae-123242148/

Socials:

Linktree: linktr.ee/secondactmovement

Instagram: @secondactmovement

LinkedIn: @secondactmovement

Facebook: @secondactmovement

YouTube: @secondactmovement

Website: michaelandjohn.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Emma Doyle, known as Coach EM, shares her inspiring journey from a high-performance tennis coach—having been a D1 college athlete and world team coach for Australia—to a globally recognized corporate coach. Certified by the International Coach Federation and trained in Neuro-Linguistic Programming and Emotional Intelligence, Emma helps leaders unlock potential through curiosity, feedback, and tailored strategies. Drawing on her Amazon best-seller What Makes a Great Coach?, her podcast The Coaching Podcast, and her TEDx talk, "Unleashing Female Potential," she emphasizes the power of "curiosity over judgment," execution over talent, and celebrating small wins. Splitting her time between Denver and Melbourne, Emma’s passion for empowering others reflects her belief in the transformative power of resilience and energy.

Starring:

Michael Newborn (@michaelnewborn)

John Ballenger (@john-ballenger53)

Guest:

Emma Doyle

https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-doyle-41150215?

http://www.coachem.com/

Network/Produced by:

Seltzer Kings (@seltzerkings) (seltzerkings.com)

Theme Music by Saint Josh

Listen Here:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/71Uji4fPLsnGEJjeAqomiJ?si=77e3d7bb636c422a

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john/id1707412739

Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a6b369bb-36a9-47ab-9f22-1bacfcff6166/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john

iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-second-act-with-michae-123242148/

Socials:

Linktree: linktr.ee/secondactmovement

Instagram: @secondactmovement

LinkedIn: @secondactmovement

Facebook: @secondactmovement

YouTube: @secondactmovement

Website: michaelandjohn.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael and John share their gratitude for many things as they reflect on an incredible year with The Second Act!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Linda Hafstad’s journey is a testament to bold choices and a relentless drive to make a difference. Growing up as an expatriate child living across the globe, she developed an early awareness of life’s brevity and the importance of meaningful work. Despite earning a perfect GPA, Linda made the unconventional decision to skip college, opting instead to pursue her dream of building something impactful. By 17, she had founded Ekte Media—named after the Norwegian word for "real"—and forged a unique path by partnering with impact-driven organizations to tell authentic stories. To fund her vision, Linda took on side jobs like Uber Eats, embodying the resilience and dedication that define her career today. Recently spending time with Sir Richard Branson on Necker Island, she found renewed inspiration in her mission to elevate brands focused on global change. Now a recipient of multiple awards, including the Outstanding Leadership Award at the Marketing 2.0 Conference, Linda’s story of unwavering integrity and purpose-driven work makes her a trailblazer in brand strategy and digital impact.

Starring:

Michael Newborn (@michaelnewborn)

John Ballenger (@john-ballenger53)

Guest:

Linda Hafstad

Personal:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindahafstad/

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

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lindahafstad

Business:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ektemedia/

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

Network/Produced by:

Seltzer Kings (@seltzerkings) (seltzerkings.com)

Theme Music:

"You Can't Stop Me" by Andy Mineo

Listen Here:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/71Uji4fPLsnGEJjeAqomiJ?si=77e3d7bb636c422a

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john/id1707412739

Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a6b369bb-36a9-47ab-9f22-1bacfcff6166/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john

iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-second-act-with-michae-123242148/

Socials:

Linktree: linktr.ee/secondactmovement

Instagram: @secondactmovement

LinkedIn: @secondactmovement

Facebook: @secondactmovement

YouTube: @secondactmovement

Website: michaelandjohn.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

John Register’s journey is a powerful testament to resilience and the possibility of a second act. A world-class athlete, John’s life changed dramatically after a traumatic accident cost him his leg. Faced with this profound shift, he developed his Three Rs framework—Reckoning, Revision, and Renewal—to guide himself through transformation. Through this process, he not only redefined his own path as a Paralympic medalist and global advocate but also empowered others to navigate their own transitions. With a belief that “everything in life is training,” John has made it his mission to show how adversity can lead to reinvention and renewal, reminding us all that with purpose and community, each of us has the capacity to build a new chapter.

Starring:

Michael Newborn (@michaelnewborn)

John Ballenger (@john-ballenger53)

Guest:

John Register

https://johnregister.beehiiv.com/

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

https://johnregister.com/

Network/Produced by:

Seltzer Kings (@seltzerkings) (seltzerkings.com)

Theme Music:

"You Can't Stop Me" by Andy Mineo

Listen Here:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/71Uji4fPLsnGEJjeAqomiJ?si=77e3d7bb636c422a

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john/id1707412739

Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a6b369bb-36a9-47ab-9f22-1bacfcff6166/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john

iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-second-act-with-michae-123242148/

Socials:

Linktree: linktr.ee/secondactmovement

Instagram: @secondactmovement

LinkedIn: @secondactmovement

Facebook: @secondactmovement

YouTube: @secondactmovement

Website: michaelandjohn.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this Halloween special of The Second Act podcast, hosts Michael Newborn and John Ballenger dig into thrilling tales of career fear and growth, recounting moments that took them to the edge of their comfort zones. From Michael’s make-or-break tech sales deal under intense pressure to John’s first flight as an aircraft commander for the President, they reveal how self-doubt and imposter syndrome can haunt even the most seasoned pros. They talk about the sacrifices needed for ambitious goals, noting the commitment required for big dreams, but never without a cost. Through stories of high stakes and resilience, they inspire listeners to confront their own fears and take bold steps forward. Wrapping up, they invite the audience to share their “second act” stories and join the Second Act Movement online, encouraging a fearless leap into new chapters.

Starring:

Michael Newborn (@michaelnewborn)

John Ballenger (@john-ballenger53)

Network/Produced by:

Seltzer Kings (@seltzerkings) (seltzerkings.com)

Theme Music:

"You Can't Stop Me" by Andy Mineo

Listen Here:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/71Uji4fPLsnGEJjeAqomiJ?si=77e3d7bb636c422a

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john/id1707412739

Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a6b369bb-36a9-47ab-9f22-1bacfcff6166/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john

iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-second-act-with-michae-123242148/

Socials:

Linktree: linktr.ee/secondactmovement

Instagram: @secondactmovement

LinkedIn: @secondactmovement

Facebook: @secondactmovement

YouTube: @secondactmovement

Website: michaelandjohn.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sarah Nightengale's journey exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and the power of community. Originally aspiring to be a diplomat, she adjusted her career path to accommodate the frequent relocations that came with her role as a military spouse. Overcoming challenges in finding employment overseas, she built a diverse career across higher education marketing, healthcare administration, and data analytics, leading to her role as a Senior Advisor at Raymond James Financial. Since 2014, Sarah has championed military spouse employment through the Hiring Our Heroes Military Spouse Professional Network, serving as Chapter Lead for three chapters and earning recognition as Military Spouse of the Year from Hire Heroes USA. A registered yoga teacher, she also promotes well-being among service members and their families. Now based at Carlisle Barracks, PA, with her husband and two dogs, Sarah’s story is a testament to the strength and adaptability of military spouses everywhere.

Starring:

Michael Newborn (@michaelnewborn)

John Ballenger (@john-ballenger53)

Guest:

Sarah Nightengale

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

Network/Produced by:

Seltzer Kings (@seltzerkings) (seltzerkings.com)

Theme Music:

"You Can't Stop Me" by Andy Mineo

Listen Here:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/71Uji4fPLsnGEJjeAqomiJ?si=77e3d7bb636c422a

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john/id1707412739

Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a6b369bb-36a9-47ab-9f22-1bacfcff6166/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john

iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-second-act-with-michae-123242148/

Socials:

Linktree: linktr.ee/secondactmovement

Instagram: @secondactmovement

LinkedIn: @secondactmovement

Facebook: @secondactmovement

YouTube: @secondactmovement

Website: michaelandjohn.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris Daily, a seasoned software development leader with over 30 years of experience at companies like Experian, Fidelity National, and Stratice Healthcare, faced a life-altering event in October 2020 when severe heart blockages led to a heart transplant. Ignoring subtle symptoms initially, Chris learned the hard way the importance of seeking medical help promptly and trusting healthcare professionals. The emotional wait for a new heart was challenging, but he leaned heavily on his support system, especially his spouse, for strength. Following the transplant, Chris underwent physical therapy and recovery, gaining a renewed perspective on life. He now prioritizes family and health over career ambitions, and dedicates his second chance to giving back, particularly by helping underprivileged children. Residing in Indiana, Chris embraces his "second act" with gratitude, focusing on balance, health, and purpose.

Starring:

Michael Newborn (@michaelnewborn)

John Ballenger (@john-ballenger53)

Guest:

Chris Daily

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

https://blaizing.org/

Network/Produced by:

Seltzer Kings (@seltzerkings) (seltzerkings.com)

Theme Music:

"You Can't Stop Me" by Andy Mineo

Listen Here:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/71Uji4fPLsnGEJjeAqomiJ?si=77e3d7bb636c422a

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john/id1707412739

Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a6b369bb-36a9-47ab-9f22-1bacfcff6166/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john

iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-second-act-with-michae-123242148/

Socials:

Linktree: linktr.ee/secondactmovement

Instagram: @secondactmovement

LinkedIn: @secondactmovement

Facebook: @secondactmovement

YouTube: @secondactmovement

Website: michaelandjohn.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nadine Bullock-Potting, CEO of Paradigm for Parity, shared her inspiring journey from a career in education to leading a coalition dedicated to closing gender and racial gaps in the corporate sector. With a career rooted in the nonprofit world, including leadership roles at Hire Heroes USA and United Way, Nadine emphasizes the importance of mentorship, sponsorship, and authentic leadership in helping women and minorities navigate career transitions and overcome imposter syndrome. Her own experiences of frequently moving as a child—from England to Vancouver, Toronto, and the U.S.—shaped her passion for equity and resilience. Nadine advocates for systemic change within organizations to support women in leadership roles.

Starring:

Michael Newborn (@michaelnewborn)

John Ballenger (@john-ballenger53)

Guest:

Nadine Bullock-Pottinga

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nadine-bullock-pottinga

https://paradigm4parity.org/

Network/Produced by:

Seltzer Kings (@seltzerkings) (seltzerkings.com)

Theme Music:

"You Can't Stop Me" by Andy Mineo

Listen Here:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/71Uji4fPLsnGEJjeAqomiJ?si=77e3d7bb636c422a

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john/id1707412739

Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a6b369bb-36a9-47ab-9f22-1bacfcff6166/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john

iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-second-act-with-michae-123242148/

Socials:

Linktree: linktr.ee/secondactmovement

Instagram: @secondactmovement

LinkedIn: @secondactmovement

Facebook: @secondactmovement

YouTube: @secondactmovement

Website: michaelandjohn.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Over the past year, “The Second Act” podcast has uncovered that pursuing a second act is not a singular event but a highly relatable concept—a transformative stage in life marked by a significant shift from one’s previous path. Despite having no prior experience in online media, we took a leap, honed our skills, and gradually refined our approach. Through this journey, we've crafted a high-quality show featuring diverse guests, built a passionate community, and created engaging content. Though imperfect, we've grown tremendously, celebrating the stories of 36 incredible individuals—corporate executives, entrepreneurs, veterans, and more—who embody the courage to redefine their lives. This special release commemorates a year of second act insights from ordinary people doing extraordinary things, reminding us that time moves forward, and it’s never too late to try something new.

Starring:

Michael Newborn (@michaelnewborn)

John Ballenger (@john-ballenger53)

Network/Produced by:

Seltzer Kings (@seltzerkings) (seltzerkings.com)

Theme Music:

"You Can't Stop Me" by Andy Mineo

Listen Here:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/71Uji4fPLsnGEJjeAqomiJ?si=77e3d7bb636c422a

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john/id1707412739

Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a6b369bb-36a9-47ab-9f22-1bacfcff6166/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john

iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-second-act-with-michae-123242148/

Socials:

Linktree: linktr.ee/secondactmovement

Instagram: @secondactmovement

LinkedIn: @secondactmovement

Facebook: @secondactmovement

YouTube: @secondactmovement

Website: michaelandjohn.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices