The Main Thing Podcast

A nine minute dose of wisdom from the wisest people I know.

Ep. 118 - Servant Leader Alison Ibarra Shares Wisdom 11/11/2024

Ep. 118 - Servant Leader Alison Ibarra Shares Wisdom Welcome to the Main Thing Podcast, where every episode brings you a concise, high-impact wisdom lesson from one of the wisest people I know. Studying their wisdom and learning together, we all get a little better at this thing called life. Courage & Community-Building are Par for the Course with Alison Stepping onto a golf course is a serene escape for some, but for Allison Ibarra, it was the beginning of a journey that led her from competitive golf to transforming a near-derelict bowling alley into Pinhead's Family Fun Center—a community gem in Oak Hill, West Virginia. Join me as I chat with Allison, a driven entrepreneur and resilient military spouse, who shares how she turned personal challenges into opportunities for community growth and family happiness. Her story is a testament to the power of determination and adaptability. Through Allison's stories and wisdom lessons, we explore the essence of friendship, community service, and the unique resilience required in the face of life's challenges. In today’s conversation with this courageous, servant leader, you will discover Alison’s Main Thing and also learn: How an incredibly productive entrepreneur manages it all; How a military spouse and her husband coped with long deployments and many months apart; and How the strongest leaders gain tremendous respect by being peace makers, rather than conflict initiators. More About Our Guest Alison is a native West Virginian, born and raised in Oak Hill. She’s a former golfer, who played competitively and worked as a PGA teaching professional. As a military spouse, married to a counter intelligence agent, Alison Ibarra has lived in many places across America. After many years away from the Mountain State, Alison and her family returned to her home region. Today, she owns and operates a bowling alley, as Chief Pinhead at Pinheads Family Fun Center of the New River Gorge. Alison also serves as the Director of Economic Development for the City of Oak Hill. This respected community leader is also the mother of two teenage daughters. Alison and I spoke at her home in Fayetteville, West Virginia. Resources Pinheads Bowling Alley & Fun Center Connect with Alison on Movie “Shallow Hal” Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod Help Support and Sustain This Podcast Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on . Become a patron and with funding. Episode Chapters [0:03:25] - Golf and bowling; the vision and strategy behind Pinheads [0:06:00] - How Skip and Alison are connected - Holly Fussell [0:06:55] - Life as a military spouse; setting a precedent; flexible domestic roles [0:11:15] - Time management; avoiding feeling overwhelmed; out-sourcing [0:12:45] - Alison shares her Main Thing wisdom nugget; inspiration from “Shallow Hal” [0:15:11] - Wisdom for the golf course [0:17:16] - Priorities and choices [0:18:56] - Thoughts on peacemakers; how we react under stress [0:20:24] - Alison shares views on servant leadership and building community Keywords Wisdom, Leadership, Military Spouse, Entrepreneurship, Service, Community, Golf, Bowling, Legacy, West Virginia, Adaptability, Resilience, Life Balance, Personal Growth, Timeless Activities, Inclusivity, Role Changes, Parenting, Family Unity, Prioritizing, Strengths, Weaknesses, Decision-making, Women /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/33867832

Ep. 117 - Jon Beck Navigating ALS with Acceptance & Gratitude 10/23/2024

Ep. 117 - Jon Beck Navigating ALS with Acceptance & Gratitude Welcome to the Main Thing Podcast, where every episode brings you a concise, high-impact wisdom lesson from one of the wisest people I know. Studying their wisdom and learning together, we all get just a little bit better at this thing called life. Jon Beck Navigating ALS with Acceptance and Gratitude If you were diagnosed with a serious, perhaps fatal, health condition, would you be able to approach it with acceptance—much less gratitude? I’m fairly certain I’d struggle to do so. Yet that’s exactly what has enabled Jon Beck to get to where he is today. Unyielding Spirit in a Father’s Journey through Lou Gehrig’s Disease Our special, wise guest is a new friend, a special human being with the most amazing spirit and attitude, and someone battling a fatal disease. Jon Beck is seven years into a battle with ALS. As you will hear in this powerful conversation, Jon is not defined by his disease. Though ALS will eventually take his life, he will not allow it to rob him of his joy. In this uplifting episode, you will learn the three keys to navigating any challenge, to making it through any form of adversity. More About Our Guest Jon Beck, explored the Western United States, often by bicycle, in his younger years until one day he decided to enroll in physical therapy school at Emory University in Atlanta. While there, he met the love of his life, lisa. Shortly thereafter they got married and began having kids and raising a family. Jon's nearly 20-year career as a physical therapist was ironically truncated by a physically debilitating disease ALS in 2017. Seven years later, Jon remains very active in his power wheelchair. He applies his background in biomechanics to good use every day. This despite the initial prognosis from doctors that he might only have two years to live. Jon is the proud father of three adult children. They continue to provide tremendous inspiration to him, as does his wife, Lisa. Jon Beck spoke with us from his home in St Albans, West Virginia, USA. Resources Connect with Jon on Book recommended by Jon: “The Road Less Traveled” by M. Scott Peck, MD Find it in The Main Thing’s or on Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod Help Support and Sustain This Podcast Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on . Become a patron and with funding. Episode Chapters [0:04:05] - Fatherhood and life stages [0:06:05] - Sensing something is not quite right; the onset of ALS [0:07:00] - Daily life with ALS, symptoms, challenges and adaptations [0:08:57] - How Skip and Jon are connected [0:11:07] - Jon reveals his Main Thing wisdom [0:13:02] - Goosebumps moment for Skip [0:15:40] - The cornerstones of a spiritual life [0:18:02] - Dealing with a daunting diagnosis; snapshot of a day in Cleveland [0:20:22] - Truly understanding the principle of acceptance as courage, not cowardice [0:23:18] - Why Landscape View is better than portrait mode /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/33582792

Ep. 116 - Conversation Curator Shannon Wheatley Hartman Shares Wisdom 10/04/2024

Ep. 116 - Conversation Curator Shannon Wheatley Hartman Shares Wisdom Welcome to the Main Thing Podcast, where every episode brings you a concise, high-impact wisdom lesson from one of the wisest people I know. Studying their wisdom and learning together, we all get just a little bit better at this thing called life. Fostering Democracy and Personal Growth Through Collaborative Exploration What if embracing diverse ideas could transform not just your personal growth, but also strengthen democracy itself? Tune into an enlightening conversation with Dr. Shannon Wheatley Hartman, president of the Interactivity Foundation. She reveals how an exploratory mindset opens doors to innovative thinking and community building. Drawing inspiration from her mentor, Dr. Jack Byrd, Shannon shares invaluable lessons on being present and supportive in our interactions. We dive into the foundation's commitment to nurturing democratic skills like generous interpretation and comfort with ambiguity, underscoring the ongoing importance of fostering wisdom in our everyday lives. More About Our Wise Guest - Dr. Shannon Wheatley Hartman Shannon Wheatley Hartman is the President of the Interactivity Foundation, a nonpartisan and non-advocacy organization founded decades ago in Parkersburg, WV. The foundation has grown to become a nationally recognized leader, focused on strengthening democracy through discussion. Shannon is an expert facilitator who has been working to advance civic discussion skills and mindsets in communities and classrooms for over 15 years. She entered the nonprofit world through academia. She has a Ph.D. in political science and has taught at several universities. Whether she is teaching a class or working with a community group, she has always been passionate about creating the conditions and nurturing the necessary skills to help groups think better together. Democracy isn't defined by the absence of difference or conflict, but the ability to celebrate differences and work together through disagreements. Shannon and the work of the Interactivity Foundation helps to support this in classrooms, communities, and workplaces. Perhaps unintentionally, Shannon tests out all of her new discussion experiments on her family. She lives with a wonderfully supportive husband, three daughters, and a very enthusiastic dog, “Scouty Boy.” They gravitate to activities that encourage exploration, like traveling, hiking, mountain biking, and wild baking experiments. Shannon joins us from Philadelphia. Get ready! Over the next 19 minutes, you will discover why Dr. Shannon Wheatley Hartman is one of the wisest people I know. Resources Connect with Shannon on Interactivity Foundation Our podcast for additional wisdom resources Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod Help to Support and Sustain This Podcast Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on . Become a patron and with funding. Episode Chapters [0:03:54] - Traveling north to escape the heat and awaken the brain [0:05:35] - Skip and Shannon reveal how they’re connected [0:06:29] - The work of the Interactivity Foundation [0:09:45] - Shannon shares her main thing wisdom nugget [0:10:28] - Building collaboratively with purpose and patience [0:13:54] - Ego, fear and other blockers to building democracy [0:18:18] - Cooking down the kitchen Keywords Wisdom, Personal Growth, Democracy, Diverse Ideas, Exploratory Mindset, Collaboration, Community, Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, Ego, Fear, Impatience, Curiosity, Comfort with Ambiguity, Democratic Discussions, Wisdom, Analytical Mindset, Building, Purpose, Patience, Loneliness, Engagement, Interaction, Culinary Experiments, Resourceful, Enriching Experience, Gratitude, Kentucky, West Virginia, WVU, Jack Byrd /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/33331712

Ep. 115 - Gifted Educator Denise Workman Shares Wisdom 09/10/2024

Ep. 115 - Gifted Educator Denise Workman Shares Wisdom Welcome to the Main Thing Podcast, where every episode brings you a concise, high-impact wisdom lesson from one of the wisest people I know. Studying their wisdom and learning together, we all get just a little bit better at this thing called life. Denise Workman's Journey in Nurturing Exceptional Minds In this heartwarming episode, we sit down with Denise Workman, a passionate educator who has dedicated her life to advocating for— and nurturing the talents of — special needs students. How can hope and humility transform the lives of gifted students? Denise brings her wisdom, warmth and infectious positivity to our conversation, sharing her deep insights into the unique challenges and misconceptions surrounding giftedness. She reveals how she helps gifted students navigate their educational journeys and the complexities of growing up. Denise also shares her personal experiences and valuable life-lessons. What if growing up in a small town was your biggest superpower? This episode is a must-listen for educators, parents, and anyone interested in understanding the true essence of giftedness. Tune in to discover why Denise Workman is one of the wisest people we know and how her work is making a tremendous impact. A Bit More About Our Wise Guest - Denise Workman Denise Workman is a teacher for the gifted who specializes in student identification, advocacy, enrichment, and talent development. She is a past president and current member of the West Virginia Association for Gifted and Talented. Denise is active in her community as a volunteer. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for West Virginia University Alumni Association and as a board member for the Charles and Mary Fayne Glotfelty Foundation. She’s also a devoted supporter of the Boone County WVU Alumni Chapter focusing on its annual pig roast fundraiser and student scholarships. Denise and her husband, Todd Mount, reside in Charleston. Resources Connect with Denise on Our podcast for additional wisdom resources Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod Help Support and Sustain This Podcast Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on . Become a patron and with funding. Episode Chapters [0:03:35] - Identifying and working with gifted students; Denise’s calling [0:06:18] - The superpower of growing up in a small town [0:10:11] - Denise reveals her Main Thing wisdom lesson [0:12:00] - Thieves of hope; challenges confronting children today [0:13:16] - Scarcity mentality; difference between hopelessness and hope [0:16:41] - Applying Denise’s main thing wisdom to your life Keywords Wisdom, Education, Volunteer, Small Town, Superpower, Hope, Humility, Gifted, Students, Educator, Special Needs, Talents, Challenges, Misconceptions, Identification, Advocacy, Talent, Educational, Journeys, Growing Up, Soft Skills, Community, Involvement, Impact, Extraordinary, Support, Meaning, WVU, Alumni, West Virginia /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/32994457

Ep. 114. - Skip's Quips: The Power of Words 08/22/2024

Ep. 114. - Skip's Quips: The Power of Words Join me for a powerful exploration of the influence of language in our lives in this special, debut edition of “Skip's Quips.” Today, I share a wisdom lesson that highlights the profound impact words can have on our bodies and minds. A seemingly innocent phrase once caused me to faint in my doctor's office. This incident underscores how words can trigger intense physical reactions, from fear to laughter. By sharing this experience, I hope to illustrate the incredible influence words wield, not only in causing fear but also in creating positive outcomes. In addition to this personal tale, we explore the broader implications of our language choices. Words have the power to either uplift or deflate us—and those around us. As you head into the coming week, I challenge you to reflect on how your words might affect others. Whether it's offering encouragement to a friend, family member, or teammate, remember that your words hold significant power. Let's harness the power of words to shape our experiences and reactions positively. 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 9 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 . For More Information About Skip Lineberg Please visit our . Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod @TheMainThingPod Help Support and Sustain This Podcast Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on . Become a patron and with funding. Episode Chapters [0:01:58] - Fainting in the doctor’s office [0:03:37] - Background on the reason for the trip to the doctor [0:05:00] - A fateful three-word phrase; physical + emotional trigger Keywords Power of Words, Language, Impact, Physical Reactions, Emotional State, Reflection, Encouragement, Wisdom, Mindful, Positive Outcomes, Language Choices, Spread Positivity, Personal Story, Fight-or-Flight Responses, Uplift, Influence, Significant Difference, Language Potential, Emotional Impact, Mind and Body Connection, Fainting /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/32690032

Ep. 113 - Superconnector Bob Coffield Shares Inspiring Wisdom 08/06/2024

Ep. 113 - Superconnector Bob Coffield Shares Inspiring Wisdom Join us on The Main Thing Podcast as we share the extraordinary wisdom of superconnector Bob Coffield, celebrated for his innovative thinking and extensive network. Bob is an early adopter of technology and a cultural trend spotter, whose gifts often align in the connection of ideas and people. Host Skip Lineberg highlights Bob's ability to see possibilities and connect the dots. During this dynamic wisdom conversation, you will get valuable input on several important aspects of personal growth, including: Vital importance of relationships; Value of sharing big ideas, rather than protecting or hoarding them; Continuous learning mindset; and Enduring influence of mentors. Discover the "Coffield Effect" and its associated term “Coffieldesque," which illustrate Bob's knack for creating unexpected yet delightful connections. Connects the dots with us, as we explore Bob's curiosity and his role as a super connector, encapsulating his unique impact on those around him. As always, you will discover the main thing our wise guest has learned in his lifetime so far. More About Special Guest Bob Coffield Bob Coffield, a partner at Nelson Mullins, is a seasoned health care and business lawyer with a national practice. Bob's client base includes health systems, hospitals, physician groups, health technology companies, and other national and regional health care provider. Outside the office, Bob enjoys running, music, travel and history. He is a father of two. Bob and his wife Susanne reside in Charleston, West Virginia. Settle in and get ready for a big dose of wisdom and encouragement. Over the next 19 minutes, you will discover why Bob Coffield is one of the wisest people we know. Resources Connect with Bob on or Our podcast provides additional wisdom resources Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod Help Support and Sustain This Podcast Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on . Become a patron and with funding. Episode Chapters [0:03:30] - Exploring The Coffield Effect and Coffieldesque [0:06:50] - How Skip and Bob are connected [0:07:53] - Bob’s career path; specializing in healthcare and technology [0:11:20] - Bob reveals his Main Thing wisdom lesson [0:11:50] - The Ace Hayward story; impact of a mentor [0:14:45] - Quote from The Soccer Poet [0:15:34] - Treasuring the importance of others who’ve impacted our lives [0:16:00] - Bob’s reluctance to appear; the giving and receiving of wisdom [0:17:00] - A daughter’s perspective on wisdom [0:18:00] - Why humans should slow down a bit Keywords Healthcare, Business, Lawyer, Relationships, Innovative Thinking, Connections, Potential, Curiosity, Mentorship, Superconnector, Joy, Wisdom, Positivity, Attitude, Legacy, Soccer, Cancer, Appreciation, Happiness, Learning, Influence, Mentors, Inspiring, Inspiration, Smile, Meaningful, Present, Presence, Cherish, Slowing, Pace, Wisdom, Connecting, Enriching, West Virginia, Bethany, Capital Street, Wetzel, New Martinsville, Physician, Doctor, Buzznugget /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/32461827

Ep. 112 - Bold Business Leader Holly Fussell Shares Wisdom 07/17/2024

Ep. 112 - Bold Business Leader Holly Fussell Shares Wisdom Welcome to The Main Thing Podcast! Each episode we bring you a concise, high impact wisdom lesson from one of the wisest people I know. Studying their wisdom and learning together, we all get just a little bit better at this thing called life. Curiosity, Climbing and Community: Wisdom Lessons from SEAL Spouse, Bold Business Leader Holly Fussell Holly Fussell is one of the most diverse and curious people I’ve ever met. She’s a certified yoga instructor, an experienced triathlete, and a formally trained sommelier who studied at the Culinary Institute of America. Holly was a military spouse for more than 10 years with an active duty Navy SEAL for a husband, so she knows what it is like to face transition and uncertainty. We’ll have fun as we explore Holly’s rich, diverse wisdom. Along the way you will learn: How to be truly adaptable, especially when facing uncertainty. Plus you will hear tips on how to avoid the comparison trap. How to look within and trust that you have everything you need. More About Our Wise Guest With her husband, Holly Fussell owns Water Stone Outdoors, a specialty outdoor gear and apparel shop in Fayetteville, WV. She looks forward to being a part of job creation in the growing outdoor recreation economy in West Virginia. While living in Washington, D.C., Holly worked with non-profit organizations supporting access to healthy, high-quality food. She served on the Board of Directors for SEALKIDS for five years, an organization supporting academic challenges and special needs for children in the Navy SEAL community. Holly recently completed her MBA through West Virginia University and volunteers in her community, serving on the Board of Directors for the Fayetteville Visitors and Convention Bureau. She is the mother of two childre and enjoys spending time outdoors with family and friends. Now gear up and get ready. Over the next 19 minutes, you’ll discover why Holly Fussell is one of the wisest people I know. Resources Connect with Holly on to read her essays on small biz ownership Waterstone Outdoors of our podcast, featuring Navy SEAL Chris Fussell Our for additional wisdom resources Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod Help Support and Sustain This Podcast Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on . Become a patron and with funding. Episode Chapters [0:03:30] - Holly’s diverse background [0:06:03] - About Waterstone Outdoors; the new vision for the store [0:05:23] - How Skip and Holly are connected [0:09:42] - Life as a military spouse; being married to a Navy SEAL [0:14:00] - Holly reveals her Main Thing wisdom lesson [0:15:07] - Growth mindset; the importance of curiosity; learning by trying [0:16:45] - Surrounded by high-performers; avoiding comparison trap [0:18:14] - Fallacy of making assumptions about successful people [0:19:16] - Ingredients for a life of intention Keywords Small Business, Adaptability, Growth Mindset, Excellence, Military Spouse, Comparison Trap, Perfectionism, Intentionality, Pursuing Fulfillment, High Achievers, Emotional Intelligence, Intentional Living, Personal Development, Multiple Intelligences, SEAL Team, Navy, Community, Meaningful Relationships, Entrepreneurship, Yoga, Triathlete, Sourdough Bread, Rock Climbing, Sommelier, Foreign Language Teacher, High Performers, Effort, Outcomes, Exciting Updates, Revitalized Store, Waterstone Outdoors, Fayetteville, New River Gorge, National Park /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/32172562

Ep. 111 - Hall of Fame Broadcaster Tony Caridi Shares Wisdom 06/14/2024

Ep. 111 - Hall of Fame Broadcaster Tony Caridi Shares Wisdom Welcome to The Main Thing Podcast! Each episode we bring you a concise, high impact wisdom lesson from one of the wisest people I know. Studying their wisdom and learning together, we all get just a little bit better at this thing called life. Voice of the Mountaineers: Tony Caridi on Sports Broadcasting, Love, and Life Lessons What does it take to be the enduring voice of a sports team and earn the loyalty of its fans? Join us in a riveting wisdom conversation with Tony Caridi, the iconic voice of the West Virginia University Mountaineers, as he shares the secrets behind his captivating career in sports broadcasting. We explore Tony's journey from New York to Morgantown, his efforts to win the hearts of West Virginians, and the profound wisdom he's gained from broadcasting legends like Jack Fleming. Tony's reflections on building a genuine connection with his audience and the nuances of live reporting bring invaluable insights to anyone interested in the world of sports journalism. Tony Caridi also opens up about the technical prowess and emotional resilience required to excel in sports broadcasting. Listen as he recounts the memorable highs and lows of covering significant football games, from the Sugar Bowl to the Fiesta Bowl, and the meticulous preparation that goes into creating unforgettable game-day experiences. Tony emphasizes the importance of honoring the institution and maintaining high standards, sharing the lessons he learned from Jack Fleming that have shaped his career and storytelling craft. Beyond the world of sports, this episode delves into deeper life lessons, exploring Tony's perspective on love, resilience, and faith. This conversation is a treasure trove of authenticity, audience engagement, and timeless wisdom from one of sports journalism's most respected voices. More About Our Wise Guest - Tony Caridi Tony Caridi is the voice of the West Virginia University Mountaineers and a professional sports broadcaster whose career encompasses play-by-play commentary on radio and television. Tony is a graduate of the prestigious Syracuse University Newhouse School of Public Communications. He is a 2022 inductee of the Syracuse University WAER Broadcasting Hall of Fame and a multiple winner of the West Virginia Sportscaster of the Year honor. Tony is also a published author, and he’s the co-host of the popular podcast “3 Guys Before the Game.” Tony and wife Joan reside in Morgantown, West Virginia, where he joins us today. So lace ‘em up and get ready. Over the next several minutes you will discover why Tony Caridi is one of the wisest people I know. Resources Check out Tony’s podcast Connect with Tony on and Tony’s Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Graphic Design + Social Media Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod How Can You Help Support the Growth of this Podcast? Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Become a patron of the show and with funding. Purchase a book from our curated collection on . Episode Chapters 0:03:39 - Thoughts on podcasting and "3 Guys Before the Game" 0:07:09 - Growing up in Lockport, NY; Tony’s early years; family values 0:13:03 - Tony’s love of sports; his calling toward broadcasting 0:15:34 - Broadcasting career and the move to West Virginia 0:19:10 - Following a legend; working beside and learning from Jack Fleming 0:29:48 - Handling the ups and downs of WVU sports teams 0:35:48 - The power of love in life 0:40:50 - Guidance from Jesus for life’s rules /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/31746692

Ep. 110 - Building Your Dream with Entrepreneur Amy McLaughlin 05/29/2024

Ep. 110 - Building Your Dream with Entrepreneur Amy McLaughlin Welcome to The Main Thing Podcast! Each episode we bring you a concise, high impact wisdom lesson from one of the wisest people I know. Studying their wisdom and learning together, we all get just a little bit better at this thing called life. Building Your Dream: Exploring the Entrepreneurial Journey What kind of magic is required to transform a 120-year-old building into a contemporary haven filled with original local art? Join us as we uncover the inspiring journey of Amy McLaughlin and her husband/co-founder, who turned their vision into Lafayette Flats Boutique Vacation Rentals in Fayetteville, West Virginia. Celebrating the 10-year anniversary of Lafayette Flats, Amy takes us through the meticulous planning, visionary design, and the challenges they overcame to create a unique lodging destination amidst the natural beauty of New River Gorge National Park. Aspiring entrepreneurs and lovers of West Virginia's charm will find a wealth of insights and inspiration in this episode. We discuss the decision-making principles that guided her, focusing on goals over circumstances, particularly in the face of the area's National Park designation. This conversation is a rich source of wisdom on sustainable tourism, entrepreneurship, and celebrating local culture, making it a must-listen for anyone with a passion for hospitality and West Virginia's scenic splendor. More About Our Wise Guest - Entrepreneur Amy McLaughlin Amy McLaughlin is an entrepreneur, master naturalist and art collector. She finds great beauty in her West Virginia home, which she curates for the rest of the world to appreciate. Amy and her husband own and operate Lafayette Flats Boutique Vacation Rentals in Fayetteville, WV on the rim of New River Gorge National Park. In April 2024, they celebrated the 10th anniversary of their small business, which is housed in a 120-year-old building they lovingly renovated. Lafayette Flats was recently named one of the best places to stay in West Virginia by National Geographic, and as you will learn, it is much more than just a lodging property. Now, settle in, take a deep breath of fresh mountain air … and get ready, over the next several minutes you will learn why Amy McLaughlin is one of the wisest people I know. Resources Check out the Lafayette Flats Follow Lafayette Flats on Connect with Amy on Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Graphic Design + Social Media Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod How Can You Help Support the Growth of this Podcast? Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Become a patron of the show and with funding. Purchase a book from our curated collection on . Episode Chapters [0:02:47] - Celebrating Lafayette Flats [0:07:16] - Creating Lafayette Flats [0:11:17] - Making Decisions Based on Goals Keywords Entrepreneurship, Hospitality, West Virginia, Lafayette Flats, Vacation Rentals, National Park, Sustainable Tourism, Interior Design, Construction, Budget, Vision, Planning, Challenges, Local Art, New River Gorge, Celebrating, Charm, Scenic Splendor, Aspiring Entrepreneurs, Shared Experiences, Unique Appeal, Backgrounds, Decision-Making, Goals, Circumstances, Professional, Personal Life, Socially, Environmentally, Economically Sustainable /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/31517707

Ep. 109 - Youth Pastor Dylan Frercks Shares Generational Wisdom 05/04/2024

Ep. 109 - Youth Pastor Dylan Frercks Shares Generational Wisdom Welcome to The Main Thing Podcast! Each episode we bring you a concise, high impact wisdom lesson from one of the wisest people I know. Studying their wisdom and Learning together, we all get just a little bit better at this thing called life. Living with Intention: A Youth Pastor's Journey of Purposeful Wisdom and Creative Ministry In the labyrinth of life's endless choices and pathways, it is the rare individual who walks with deliberate steps, who finds a compass in the chaos. Dylan Frercks is such an individual—a 29 year-old youth pastor whose spirit is infused with a wisdom that belies the conventional expectations of his age. For Dylan, this path is paved with intentionality, creativity, and an unwavering pursuit of spiritual depth. In this episode, we sit with Dylan, whose story is not just a chronicle of guiding the young, but an inspired journey of living with purpose. Join us as we explore how this modern-day mentor navigates the challenges of youth ministry, bringing a unique perspective to the timeless quest for a life well-lived. More About Our Wise Guest - Youth Pastor Dylan Frercks Dylan Frercks is a ministry professional who has the challenging and vital job of mentoring middle school and high school students outside the classroom. In this role, Dylan comes alongside teenagers to provide hope, encouragement and a sense of belonging, while introducing them to Jesus. His journey in faith and service is underpinned by a Bachelor of Science in Religion from Liberty University. Dylan brings a decade of experience in student ministry to his current role at River Ridge Church. Dylan finds joy in photography, travel and exploring the latest in technology. He and his wife Elizabeth reside in the Charleston, West Virginia area. Now, settle in and get ready … over the next nine minutes, you will discover why Dylan Frercks is one of the wisest people I know. Resources Learn more about Dylan on the River Ridge Church Take a look at the Dylan gave on short notice Follow Dylan on [@dylanfrercks] Connect with Dylan on Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Graphic Design + Social Media Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod How Will You Help Support the Growth of this Podcast? Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Become a patron of the show and with funding. Purchase a book from our curated collection on . Episode Chapters 0:03:24 - Called into action from the pastoral bullpen on short notice 0:04:59 - Dylan takes us inside the role of youth pastor 0:06:00 - Skip & Dylan riff on the lifestyle and mindset of a creative professional 0:08:30 - Dylan reveals his main thing wisdom 0:12:13 - What’s forming or de-forming us? Symptoms of media oversaturation 0:14:32 - Dylan shares encouragement for all of us over the long term Keywords Wisdom, Preparedness, Sermon, Youth Pastor, Spiritual Growth, Creativity, Content Creation, Purposeful Living, Relationships, Environments, Character of Christ, Growth, Learning, Student Ministry, Academic Background, Photography, Travel, Technology, River Ridge Church, Bible Studies, Disc Golf, Faith, Multifaceted Role, Passion, Continually Growing, Shaped, Intentional, Influences, Jesus, Christ, John Mark Comer, Dallas Willard, Teenagers, Middle School, High School, Students /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/31124313

Ep. 108 - TOPGUN Pilot Guy Snodgrass Shares Vital Wisdom 04/19/2024

Ep. 108 - TOPGUN Pilot Guy Snodgrass Shares Vital Wisdom Welcome back to the Main Thing Podcast! I’m your host Skip Lineberg. Today you will hear from our special guest, a retired TOPGUN Pilot and TOPGUN instructor. What wisdom will we learn from this top performing, gentleman, so adept at strategy, execution and communication? Someone who knows not just how to handle high pressure situation, but to excel. Navigating Life with a Fighter Pilot's Precision and Focus Join us as we dive into the world of strategy, discipline and the art of mastering life's greater lessons with retired TOPGUN pilot and instructor Guy Snodgrass. Listen in as we navigate Guy's journey from an Eagle Scout with lofty dreams to his days at the US Naval Academy, into the cockpit of an F-A-18 fighter jet, and his role as a Top Gun instructor. We'll unpack the realities of military aviation, contrasting Hollywood's depiction with the true rigors and dedication of the job, while extracting the disciplined approach and strategic thinking that propelled Guy to the pinnacle of his career. More About Our Wise Guest - Guy Snodgrass Guy Snodgrass is the owner of Defense Analytics, a consulting company focused on international policy, business strategy, and technology policy. A retired U.S. Navy Commander, Guy served as a F/A-18 fighter pilot and TOPGUN Instructor. He also served as the Pentagon’s Director of Communications and former Secretary of Defense James Mattis’ Chief Speechwriter. He’s the author of two published books, including “TOPGUN’s Top 10: Leadership Lessons From the Cockpit." Guy joins today from Dallas, TX. Strap into your cockpit and get ready! In this fast-paced 19 minute conversation, you will discover why Guy Snodgrass is one of the wisest people I know. Resources Learn more about Guy via his Connect with Guy Snodgrass on Pick up a copy of Guy’s book “Top Gun’s Top Ten” from our Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Chloe Lineberg Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod Help Support and Sustain This Podcast Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on . Become a patron and with funding. Episode Chapters [0:03:02] - Becoming a navy fighter pilot - from dream to reality [0:04:50] - TOPGUN Hollywood’s version contrasted with the real thing [0:07:30] - Guy’s transition from military and public service to private sector [0:09:30] - How Skip and Guy are connected [0:11:32] - Guy reveals his Main Thing wisdom [0:15:39] - Advice for those who feel frazzled [0:18:26] - The importance of continuous learning /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/30898398

Ep. 107 - 9 Minutes of Wisdom with MLB Executive Chad Bolen 03/26/2024

Ep. 107 - 9 Minutes of Wisdom with MLB Executive Chad Bolen Welcome to The Main Thing Podcast. Get ready for another 9-minute dose of wisdom. Listen in as I visit with Baltimore Orioles executive Chad Bolen to explore the invaluable role wisdom plays in both professional sports marketing and personal relationships. Chad’s career spans three decades including work in the NFL, NBA, MLB and major college sports. Bringing this unique perspective, Chad shares riveting insights and stories from the industry, including his inspiring encounters with basketball icon Jerry West. We also discuss the strategies behind rejuvenating a sports franchise's corporate business in a post-pandemic world, highlighting the Orioles' approach to brand and revenue rebuilding. In our heartfelt conversation, we celebrate the beauty of generational relationships, reflecting on the extraordinary thirty-year journey of a father and the timeless wisdom that's passed along through such connections. More About Special Guest Chad Bolen Chad Bolen is a veteran sport marketer with over 30-years of experience generating revenue and maximizing results. He has worked in the NFL, NBA, major college sports and is now an executive with the Baltimore Orioles. Chad is skilled in the revenue-producing areas of franchise operations including naming rights, sponsorship marketing and sports media sales. Chad is a graduate of West Virginia University. His hobbies include traveling, fishing, hiking, rescued dogs and all things WVU Mountaineers. He and his high school sweetheart, Tammy, have been married for 31 years. They have two adult children: Sydney and Jimmy. Chad joins us from his office in the Warehouse at Oriole Park in Camden Yards in Baltimore, Maryland. Step into the batter’s box and get ready! Over the next nine minutes, you will discover why Chad Bolen is one of the wisest people I know. Resources Connect with Chad on Learn more about Home of the Please Help Support the Growth of this Podcast Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Become a patron of the show and with funding. Purchase a book from our curated collection on . Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Graphic Design + Social Media Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod Episode Chapters [0:03:10] - How Skip and Chad are connected [0:03:55] - Chad’s time working under Jerry West [0:05:50] - Coming to Baltimore to work for the MLB Orioles [0:07:03] - What it’s been like inside the rebuild of the Baltimore Orioles [0:09:34] - Chad reveals his Main Thing wisdom [0:11:17] - The source and inspiration of Chad’s wisdom; advice from a dad [0:12:16] - The impact of the Beckley, WV YMCAs on the community and region /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/30554483

Ep. 106 - Dawne Jacoby Shares Wisdom for Healing 03/07/2024

Ep. 106 - Dawne Jacoby Shares Wisdom for Healing Our special guest today has a special story, incredible fortitude and a huge heart. In a moment, you are going to hear an interview that’s amazing … sad … hopeful … shocking. It’s a triumphant story. And a powerful testimony. So … If you are seeking inspiration. If you are searching for hope … you’ve come to the right place. This is a special 39-minute episode. Some stories simply cannot be contained in a 9-minute package. Our wisdom conversation with Dawne Jacoby will leave you with the unmistakable feeling: “I can do this. It doesn’t matter what bad things have happened to me … or what setbacks I have incurred. Those things do not define me — and they only hold me back if I allow it.” Dawne was a former corporate executive, whose efforts were centered around growth, organizational change, relationships and development. She decided after multiple layoffs to lead with her faith and her heart to pursue her passion … to align with her purpose in this world - helping people. Today, in this special bonus episode, you will discover why Dawne Jacoby is one of the wisest people I know! More About Our Guest Dawne Jacoby is an author and the co-founder of Grit 2 Grace. In that role she provides transformational coaching and executive consulting, as well as keynote speaking. She is the co-host of the wonderful new podcast, “His & Her Life Hacks.” As Co-Founder of Grit2Grace, alongside her partner and fiancé, Larry Ambrose, Dawne helps people to identify and remove the limiting beliefs that hold them back - personally and professionally. Dawne helps clients uncover their true passion and strengths and creates a personalized plan so they can live the life they’ve always dreamed of. Dawne joins us from her home in Philadelphia. Resources “His & Her Life Hacks Podcast” or on Grit 2 Grace Connect with Dawne on Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Graphic Design + Social Media Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod Help Support the Growth of this Podcast Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Become a patron of the show and with funding. Purchase a book from our curated collection on . Episode Chapters [0:03:44] - Common thread - podcasting [0:04:48] - A Hallmark love story; how Dawne met Larry Ambrose (TMT102) [0:06:49] - Getting to know Dawne through the eyes of others [0:09:20] - Overcoming trauma to find purpose [0:11:42] - An unconscious stage of life; living in survival mode [0:14:30] - Leaning into her faith; Dawne discusses God’s plan for her life [0:16:39] - Childhood wounds and generational patterns [0:17:59] - Escaping abuse and finding love [0:19:49] - The day things changed from emotional to physical abuse; leaving home [0:24:18] - Dawne shares advice for other victims of trauma or abuse [0:25:31] - Opportunity for you to get additional wisdom content & exclusive benefits [0:26:40] - Dawne reveals her Main Thing; lessons from Dr. Wayne Dyer [0:29:49] - Applications and examples of her main-thing wisdom [0:31:55] - Embracing change through personal growth; Dawne’s journey to healing [0:33:27] - Nuts & bolts of her transformation; not just mental but physical work too [0:36:55] - Dawne is living testimony that change is possible; don’t lose hope [0:37:42] - On the horizon, what lies ahead for Dawne /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/30266803

Ep. 105 - J.B. Chaykowsky Shares Transformative Wisdom 02/15/2024

Ep. 105 - J.B. Chaykowsky Shares Transformative Wisdom Welcome back to the Main Thing Podcast. I’m your host Skip Lineberg. Our special guest, J.B. Chaykowsky, is a designer and creative who leads a globally dispersed design team for Intuit, the storied silicon valley fin-tech company. When the aroma of fresh coffee beans became J.B.’s ritual for grounding his creative spirit, it was evident that his approach to design was intertwined with staying firmly in the moment. Our conversation takes you on a journey through J.B.’s philosophy, where the essence of being present is not only a practice but a testament to the rich tapestry of life as a designer at creative professional. We explore the profound 'why' behind every stroke of creativity and how it breathes life into his work. There's something magical about the crossroads of fate and decision-making. As we unravel stories of pivotal changes, such as JB’s leap across the pond to London, we uncover how every choice carves a step closer to the person we yearn to become. Settle in and relax. Over the next nine minutes, you will discover why J.B. Chaykowsky is one of the wisest people I know. More About Our Guest J.B. Chaykowsky’s personal mission is to make technology more poetic. He enjoys traveling with his wife and son. J.B. is enamored with the intersection of people, technology, and philosophy. J.B. joins us from his home in London. Resources J.B.’s personal Connect with J.B. on Book recommended by J.B. in this episode: Episode 94 featuring Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Graphic Design + Social Media Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod How Can You Help Support the Growth of this Podcast? Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Become a patron of the show and with funding. Purchase a book from our curated collection on . Episode Chapters [0:03:02] - The art and social fabric of coffee [0:04:50] - J.B. takes us inside the creative life; being a design professional [0:05:51] - How Skip and J.B. are connected [0:06:26] - The power of every decision [0:07:35] - J.B. reveals his Main Thing [0:09:23] - Gleaning wisdom from Ray Dalio and Dwight Schrute [0:13:12] - Recognizing the need for wisdom; living with intent /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/29966348

Ep. 104 - Parker Klein Shares Memorable Wisdom 02/01/2024

Ep. 104 - Parker Klein Shares Memorable Wisdom Welcome to the Main Thing Podcast! I’m your host Skip Lineberg. Join us today for a wisdom-packed session with Parker Klein, the tech entrepreneur who's changing the game with his ingenious platform, Twos App. Parker Klein, a San Diego native and Vanderbilt alum, sits down with me to share his journey from working with tech giants to bravely venturing into the world of startups. In our conversation, we unravel the threads of wisdom that have influenced Parker’s pursuit of improving how we remember and connect in our digital lives. You’ll get an insider's look into how Parker's work with Qualcomm, Trustwork and Google has shaped his vision for Twos. Discover how his platform is not just an app, but a life-enhancing tool for productivity and memory. Prior to co-founding Twos and launching the eponymous app, Parker developed four of his own applications, all designed to improve people's self-awareness and help them remember their lives. When not programming, Parker enjoys reading biographies and books on philosophy. He also loves walking and running on the Tampa Riverwalk. Parker joins us today from Tampa, Florida. Click in and get ready. Over the next 9 minutes, you will discover why Parker Klein is one of the wisest people I know. Resources Learn about - the best place to write things down Download Twos from the Visit the Twos Parker’s personal featuring Clay Davis Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod How Can You Help Support the Growth of this Podcast? Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on . Become a patron and with funding. Episode Chapters [0:03:40] - Much to love about Tampa and the Tampa Riverwalk [0:04:17] - Why our host Skip loves the Twos App [0:05:40] - The inspiration that sparked Twos App [0:07:50] - How we’re connected; Clay Davis [0:08:48] - Find out how to unlock 17 add’l minutes of Parker’s wisdom [0:09:48] - Parker shares his Main Thing [0:11:56] - Absent this wisdom, Google might just stress you out [0:12:33] - Can fear get in the way of our creativity? /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/29762683

Ep. 103 - Veronica Lewis Shares Uplifting Wisdom 01/12/2024

Ep. 103 - Veronica Lewis Shares Uplifting Wisdom Welcome back to The Main Thing Podcast. I’m your host Skip Lineberg, bringing you another dose of wisdom. Listen in as Veronica Lewis, a beacon of optimism and avid adventurer of West Virginia's wilderness, joins us to share her profound journey towards personal equilibrium and mindfulness. We navigate through her transition from being swamped by life's hurdles to her pursuit of peace through stress management and the art of mindfulness. Veronica's transformative experience not only brought her happiness and harmony but also a sense of purpose. Our conversation further explores masculine and feminine energies, shedding light on how balance can influence our daily existence. Veronica's narrative is a powerful reminder of the significance of self-care and the relentless quest for wisdom in the face of life's trials. Brief Bio for Our Wise Guest Veronica Lewis has been involved in policy, politics, government and community affairs in various roles since 2012. She was recognized as one of West Virginia’s Generation Next 40 under 40, enjoys public speaking, and has a passion for exploring the outdoor gems of West Virginia. When she’s not chasing waterfalls and hiking, you can find Veronica working on her personal development through mindfulness training, or with a book in her hand. Veronica resides in Jackson County where she volunteers her time and invests in her community. Get ready over the next 9 minutes, you will discover why Veronica Lewis is one of the wisest people I know. Resources Connect with Veronica Lewis on . Wonder and Grow - providing mindful nature experiences Book mentioned on this show - by Ryan Holiday Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod How Can You Help Support the Growth of this Podcast? Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on . Become a patron of the show and with funding. Episode Chapters [0:02:47] - Veronica’s love of West Virginia’s outdoor beauty [0:03:37] - How we’re connected; Wonder and Grow [0:04:53] - Veronica faced a challenge; her decision to change [0:06:51] - Masculine and feminine energies; the importance of balance [0:10:50] - Veronica shares her Main Thing [0:12:15] - Recognizing the body’s distress signals; taking time for yourself [0:13:53] - Trusting our intuition /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/29453968

Ep. 102 - Season Four Recap - Shopping at Wisdom Market with Rachel Bell 12/22/2023

Ep. 102 - Season Four Recap - Shopping at Wisdom Market with Rachel Bell Welcome to The Main Thing Podcast - and a very special year-end episode!Pressed for time and desperately needing to publish the final episode of 2023, our harried host, Skip Lineberg, takes you along on a grocery run. Podcasting from a moving vehicle is not recommended, by the way. No sooner than Skip sets foot inside Wisdom Market, he encounters his good friend, Rachel Bell. The two embark on a brief shopping journey - together. They’re not looking for bread, milk, eggs or coffee. What they are shopping for may surprise you! Along their journey through Wisdom Market, Rachel and Skip share some favorite moments from Season Four. Their picks and faves include prior shows, as well as books discussed on the podcast. A surprise guest appears when they tussle with a cantankerous grocery store manager. Can you guess who plays this cameo role? Brief Bio for Rachel Bell Rachel Bell is a book publishing professional and startup founder who is on a mission to propel the book industry forward. She works with authors, distributors, printers and brands to elevate and amplify their stories. Rachel is co-founder of Overcup Press, an award-winning independent publishing company. During the early stages of COVID-19, when the book industry faced supply chain and distributions issues, Rachel founded Printer’s Row, a business-to-business online marketplace. Her previous publishing experience includes Adweek Magazines and Pomegranate Communications. Rachel Bell is driven by the power of books to save us, give us a window into the larger world, and preserve humanity through storytelling. She joins us from Portland, Oregon. Resources Our Curated Wisdom Book Collection on Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Graphic Design Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod How Can You Help Support the Growth of this Podcast? Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our Purchase a book from our curated collection at Become a patron of the show and with funding. Episode Chapters [0:00:01] - Shopping for Wisdom and Inspiration [0:05:27] - Discoveries in Brain, Soul, Food [0:21:57] - Book Recommendations and Grocery Shopping [0:33:06] - Skip and Bob Discuss What’s Coming in 2024 on the Podcast /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/29194683

Ep. 101 - Larry Ambrose Shares Resolute Wisdom 12/05/2023

Ep. 101 - Larry Ambrose Shares Resolute Wisdom Welcome back to The Main Thing Podcast. Our special guest today is someone I’ve known for quite a while. He’s an incredibly resilient, strong and hope-filled person. Larry Ambrose was living the life of his dreams as a husband, father and corporate executive with GE when tragedy struck, and his wife suddenly passed away two months after giving birth to their eighth child. By the grace of God and the help of a small army of a support system, he was able to stabilize and continue to raise his family and excel in his career. But six years of trying to do it all eventually took its toll, and Larry was forced to take a leave of absence. A gut-wrenching and soul-searching process resulted in a new life mission statement for Larry. He made the decision to walk away from a company and career that he loved, to stay home and raise his children. Today, with the goal of achieving a life of joy and now thriving again, Larry Ambrose is fulfilling his life’s mission completely. Larry and fiancée Dawne Jacoby have launched #Grit2Grace - a company designed to offer hope, inspiration, and real-world solutions to those who need it. Through their speaking, coaching, book writing and podcasting, they teach how faith, resilience and doing the hard work can help you get unstuck, find your true purpose, and live a life of joy. Larry joins us today from his home in Philadelphia. Get ready! Over the next 9 minutes, you will discover why Larry Ambrose is one of the wisest - and strongest - people I know. Resources “His and Her Life Hacks Podcast” or on Connect with Larry Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Graphic Design + Social Media Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod How Can You Help Support the Growth of this Podcast? Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Become a patron of the show and with funding. Purchase a book from our curated collection on . Episode Chapters 0:03:07 - Lifelong connections 0:05:13 - When tragedy struck 0:08:37 - Reaching the breaking point 0:10:53 - Crying out to God; transformation through faith and prayer 0:12:47 - Making a uncommon and crucial decision; gaining clarity 0:14:44 - A new path and new ventures; living into the new mission. 0:17:08 - Larry reveals his Main Thing wisdom 0:18:15 - The trouble with trying to dodge pain /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/28937783

Ep. 100 - Sherman Lineberg Shares Healing Wisdom 11/10/2023

Ep. 100 - Sherman Lineberg Shares Healing Wisdom Welcome to our Centennial show … the Hundo, number 100. An episode this special deserves a very special guest, and I have one for you. This guest is the youngest person ever to appear on our show. Despite his younger age, you will quickly discover that he is truly wise, thanks to his lived experience. Sherman Lineberg is an 18-year-old, talented young man who has overcome serious adversity and challenges in his life, including a four-year journey through an autoimmune illness. He is courageous and resilient. He is my son. Sherman is a recent high school graduate and part time student at Marshall University, where he is studying cyber forensic science. Sherman is a two time state champion in eSports, where he captained his high school squad. He's also a talented golfer and bowler. He's a gifted problem solver who's adept with electronic and mechanical repair. Sherman is presently working as a bowling alley mechanic. He joins us today in person, here inside Parkwood Studios in Charleston, West Virginia. Get ready, over the next 30 minutes in this special 100th episode, we will tee up some serious wisdom. Resources Contact Sherman on Discord: Splash313 Sherman’s functional medicine doctor - Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Graphic Design Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod How Can You Help Support the Growth of this Podcast? Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Become a patron of the show and with funding. Episode Chapters [0:00:01 - 0:04:30] - Intro, Welcome and Guest Bio; thoughts on being the son of a podcaster [0:05:02 - 0:09:20] - Sherman’s four-year journey through an autoimmune illness; seeking and finding care [0:09:21 - 0:12:25] - Holding onto hope; advice for others battling extended illnesses or challenges [0:12:46 - 0:17:57] - Tapping into Sherman’s main-thing wisdom; the Hoover Dam - learning to release; applications of Sherman’s wisdom; warning signs and pain points; faith in God [0:17:58 - 0:22:45] - Looking ahead; new aspirations and hope; advice for parents whose child with an extended, invisible illness; Outro ~~~~~ Show Notes prepared with resource assistance from https://podium.page /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/28581658

Ep. 99 - Tran Taylor Shares Essential Wisdom 10/20/2023

Ep. 99 - Tran Taylor Shares Essential Wisdom Welcome back to The Main Thing Podcast! Our special guest is a gifted leader who has run the HR programs from the C-suite of several of America’s most admired and successful corporations. Tran Taylor has served as Upbound’s Executive Vice President — Chief Human Resources Officer since July 2021 and as the Chief Diversity Officer since May 2022. From 2008 through 2021, he served on the executive leadership team as the CHRO/CPO for Bumble, Mr. Cooper and Travelocity. Tran has a track record of leading the Human Resources function, establishing human capital strategy and optimizing culture and people practices. From 2001 to 2008, he led the human resources function for global, retail-focused companies, such as Alliance Data and The Home Depot. He has led human resources integration for multiple merger and acquisition efforts and also served as a key enabler for several transformational change initiatives. Tran earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from West Virginia University and completed HR executive development certification from University of Michigan Business School. He joins us from Dallas, where he resides with his wife and three children. Get set! Over the next 9 minutes you will discover why Tran Taylor is one of the wisest people I know. Resources Contact Tran Taylor on Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Graphic Design + Social Media Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod How Can You Help Support the Growth of this Podcast? Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Become a patron of the show and with funding. Purchase a book from our curated collection on . Episode Chapters [0:00:01 - 0:04:30] - Intro, Welcome and Guest Bio; the connection between Tran and Skip [0:04:31 - 0:06:55] - Tran’s career; earning a seat in the C-suite; his mentors along the way [0:06:56 - 0:08:17] - Leadership style; Tran’s competitive edge; developing others [0:08:18 - 0:11:55] - Tran shares his Main Thing; applying this wisdom to navigate one’s career [0:11:55 - 0:14:15] - Applying the finishing touches; seeking inspiration from Maya Angelou /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/28374842

Ep. 98 - Sheila Tully Shares Empowering Wisdom 09/29/2023

Ep. 98 - Sheila Tully Shares Empowering Wisdom Welcome back to The Main Thing Podcast! Today you will meet Sheila Tully, someone who is not just redefining wisdom but also revolutionizing the way midlife women perceive and love their lives. A behavior change specialist, Sheila shares her insights gained from a rich career as a corporate executive and her current role as a coach and podcast host, on why this era belongs to wisdom and how women can step into a co-equal partnership with men. She unveils the layers of our brain's functioning that facilitate enduring change and a fulfilling life. Don't miss out on this enlightening discussion if you are ready to take life head-on, armed with wisdom and an invigorated spirit. Sheila Tully has worked with hundreds of smart, midlife women, helping them to change in ways that have them loving their lives again. Sheila spent 25 years as a corporate executive and was the CEO and co-founder of the tableware company Ella Style. Following an early retirement, Sheila pivoted to a new career in the emotional health space, as a practitioner of the work that had helped her get unstuck. She now teaches a fresh approach to understanding the nature of the brain in a way that makes any change you want to make in your life not only possible but permanent. Sheila comes to us today from her home in Nashville. Settle in and get ready - over the next 9 minutes, you will discover why Sheila Tully is one of the wisest people I know. Resources Check out Sheila’s website - Contact Sheila via email to: Sheila’s podcast “Our Modern Emotional Lives” on or Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Graphic Design Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod How Can You Help Support the Growth of this Podcast? Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Become a patron of the show and with funding. Episode Chapters (0:03:05) - Wisdom and Mental Health for Women Sheila Tully helps midlife women change and gain wisdom to love their lives, leveraging knowledge of the brain for permanent change. (0:11:15) - Embracing Challenges for Personal Growth Sheila Tully and I discuss the importance of following our passions and how it can help us grow and challenge ourselves. We explore how mastering our minds and looking at challenges as growth opportunities can help us stabilize happiness and joy. We also discuss how feelings of inadequacy, fear, and anxiety come from our own thoughts and limiting beliefs. (0:18:04) - A Meaningful and Valuable Conversation We explore passions, purpose, taking action, and reflection to become our best selves. ### Show Notes supported in part by https://podium.page /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/28177037

Ep. 97 - Shawn Lesser Shares Crucial Wisdom 09/12/2023

Ep. 97 - Shawn Lesser Shares Crucial Wisdom Our special guest Shawn Lesser has a powerful story. You’ll hear Shawn's story, along with his crucial wisdom in this special 20-minute bonus episode. As you listen, I encourage you to think about someone who might also need to hear this message. Be ready to share this episode, as it could help to save someone’s life. Shawn Lesser is a seasoned finance professional and social entrepreneur, known for his work in impact investing and sustainable finance. He was previously the co-founder and Managing Partner at Big Path Capital, having played an instrumental role in shaping the firm's mission to catalyze the flow of capital towards sustainable and socially responsible investments. In this new chapter of his life, Shawn is a mental health advocate and founder of THE REAL Mental Health Foundation. The organization’s mission is to build a global community around mental health. He is especially focused on men’s health, because he sees a big need to come alongside and support men and their families. Born and raised in Brooklyn, Shawn comes to us today from Atlanta where he resides with his family. Now, settle in and get ready in this special 20-minute episode you will discover why Shawn Lesser is one of the wisest people I know. Resources Shawn’s organization Shawn Lesser on Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Graphic Design Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod How Can You Help Support the Growth of this Podcast? Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Become a patron of the show and with funding. Episode Chapters [0:04:40] - Shawn’s Story Shawn shares his story of depression and how he hit a low point - a mental breakdown in December 2022. Shawn’s wife reached out to a friend from his past, Brent Herd, who was able to provide invaluable support. We discuss the importance of reaching out for help and how important it is to have a support system in place when dealing with mental health issues. [0:12:23] - Learn about Shawn’s new organization THE REAL Mental Health Foundation [0:15:40] - Special Message from Wonder & Grow [0:17:00] - Shawn Reveals His Main-Thing Wisdom [0:18:12] - Supporting Friends With Mental Health We explore the warning signs of depression and mental health struggles. Shawn shares tips on how to support a friend who is struggling. Ultimately, we learn that it is important to check on our friends and loved ones, as it can be incredibly powerful, and it doesn’t have to be heavy or difficult. ### Show notes supported in part by Podium: https://podium.page /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/28009035

Ep. 96 - Ayanna Pope Shares Hopeful Wisdom 08/18/2023

Ep. 96 - Ayanna Pope Shares Hopeful Wisdom Welcome to The Main Thing Podcast! Our wise guest is a multi-talented creative professional who lives to inspire others and help restore hope to struggling people. Ayanna Pope shares her insights on how to use wisdom to create meaningful connections and to empower others. She offers her advice on how to cultivate a mindset of growth and resilience. She also provides a special preview of her latest book, “Symptoms of Greatness.” Ayanna's wisdom leaves us inspired and motivated to take her lessons forward. Ayanna Pope, founder of Ascended Volition, was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. She is a published Author and a TV and radio broadcaster who has built two media platforms: Silver Line Radio and the Paradigm Television Network. She uses these platforms to share her program “Healing and Hope with Ayanna Pope” and provide Biblical truth and perspective. Ayanna has dedicated her life as a believer to helping individuals through her businesses and ministry to heal, thrive and shine in the light of all they are in Jesus’ name! Her husband, Terrance Pope, shared his main thing wisdom on Ep. 68 of our show in April 2022. Don’t worry. You don’t have to be a religious person to benefit from the powerful wisdom you’ll hear today. Buckle up and get ready! Over the next 9 minutes you will discover why Ayanna Pope is one of the wisest people I know. Resources Buy Ayanna’s book “Symptoms of Greatness” on Or on our Connect with Ayanna on Connect with Ayanna on Learn more about - Ayanna’s broadcast company Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Graphic Design Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod How Can You Help Support the Growth of this Podcast? Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Become a patron of the show and with funding. Episode Chapters [0:03:10] - Ayanna Pope the Media Maven and Author Ayanna Pope shares her journey. We learn about the mission and purpose of her broadcast network, Healing and Hope. She give us a snapshot of her new book, “Symptoms of Greatness.” (0:05:33) - Embracing Differences and Rewriting Our Stories Ayanna discusses embracing unique qualities, rewriting stories, and living a fulfilling life. She encourages us to explore our inner beauty and become our best selves. [0:07:00] - Hopeful Wisdom With Ayanna Pope We discover Ayanna’s main thing - the most important wisdom she’s learned in her lifetime so far. [0:09:00] - Making a Life Transformation and Speaking Boldly Ayanna shares authentically how she made a life transition. She offers tips and advice on how we can learn from her experience. We get a special, hopeful intention and blessing from Ayanna as she expresses her parting thought. ~~~~~ Show notes supported in part by Podium: https://podium.page /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/27790266

Ep. 95 - Clay Davis Shares Insightful Wisdom 07/26/2023

Ep. 95 - Clay Davis Shares Insightful Wisdom Building a Legacy of Wisdom with Clay Davis: The Power of Presence, Patience, and Reflection Welcome back to The Main Thing Podcast! I’m your host Skip Lineberg. Ready to build some wisdom? I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Clay Davis - a podcast host, author and technology executive. We explored his intriguing journey and the philosophy behind his aptly named podcast “Build with Clay.” We're given an intimate glimpse into Clay's world, from his adventures with his family to his thought-provoking insights on the power of a growth mindset, which he credits as a driving force in his life. So, if you seek clarity on your journey to personal growth and success, or simply need a refreshing perspective, this episode is for you. As we venture further into Clay's world, he shares nuggets of wisdom, stressing the importance of pausing, reflecting, and avoiding the relentless rush of life. He takes us inside the three emotions all humans have a deep craving to experience. You'll also get to hear his inspiring advice on parenting, which he uses to illustrate the principles of nurturing patience, embracing curiosity and the transformative power of taking action. Clay's life reflects a beautiful amalgamation of his passions and experiences. Our invitation to you: don't just listen - build with us! Brief Bio for Our Wise Guest Clay Davis is a father of three and a husband of one. He is a podcast host, author of a global newsletter and a technology executive. Clay is a career coach. He’s one who views himself as both mentor and mentee, while embracing both roles. His hobbies include golf, pickle ball, basketball and flag football. Residing in Raleigh, NC, Clay’s purpose is to be there for and with others. Buckle up and get ready! Over the next 9 minutes, you will discover why Clay Davis is one of the wisest people I know. Resources Connect with Clay on Listen to Clay’s Check out Book recommended by Clay, written by John Mark Comer: “The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry” order from or My appearance on Clay’s show: “Episode 36 - Build with Skip Lineberg” Listen on or listen on Learn more about the full wisdom offerings we provide on our . Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Graphic Design Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod You Can Help Support the Growth of this Podcast Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Become a patron of the show and with funding. Episode Chapters [0:03:05] - Importance of Building and Mentors Clay Davis shares his journey from starting his career to becoming a technology executive, podcast host, and career coach. We discuss the importance of mentors, how to cultivate a growth mindset, and the power of taking the time to pause and reflect. [0:06:12] - Clay’s Main Thing Wisdom Clay emphasizes the need to not be in a hurry, and shares how his discovery of this wisdom changed his life. He also explains how his mentor, Mark Bidgood, connected him to me. Finally, Clay reveals the three emotions we all strive for—curious? You’ll have to listen for the reveal of the three. [0:08:46] - The Dilemma of Focus: Email and Parenting How a fateful Saturday morning caused Clay to delete an app from his phone. Learn how this experience led him to powerful learning that changed his parenting style and weekend mindset. [0:13:49] - Final Thoughts and Advice for Listeners Seeking Personal Growth Clay Davis shares his advice for listeners looking to grow and succeed. He encourages them to give themselves grace and patience, and to focus on the act of trying. Clay emphasizes the importance of collaboration, and the value of taking action. Show notes supported partly by Podium: https://podium.page /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/27572091

Ep. 94 - Pamela Kesling Shares Essential Wisdom 07/02/2023

Ep. 94 - Pamela Kesling Shares Essential Wisdom From 'Watch for Deer' to Wisdom: A Journey of Creativity, Resilience, and Self-Discovery with Pamela Kesling Welcome back to The Main Thing Podcast! I’m your host Skip Lineberg. Growing up in the countryside of West Virginia, my dear friend Pamela Kesling was infused with a creative spark that continues to shine brightly in her life today. Her journey is a captivating tapestry of creativity, resilience, and wisdom. It’s one that's seen her wear many hats, from being a business development director for a law firm to the president of the board for Habitat for Humanity, and from being a writer and singer to a joy-seeker. We fondly reminisce about our shared country roots and explore how her childhood catchphrase 'Watch for deer' embodies her journey from rural life to her cross-country music tour, never losing sight of her beginnings. As we delve deeper, Pamela authentically shares her experiences on how remaining soft and open can help to connect with diverse people, rewrite our narratives and strengthen our resilience in the face of life's adversities. We touch upon her spiritual journey of self-awareness and inner peace, exploring her practices of reading religious texts, meditating, and journaling. Listen in to discover how Pamela’s insights on mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and the power of introspective moments can bring clarity and calm to your life. Get ready for an inspiring conversation with one of the wisest people I know, Pamela Kesling. Brief Bio for Our Wise Guest Pamela Kesling is the business development director for Spilman, Thomas and Battle, a mid-sized regional law firm based in Charleston, West Virginia. She is also the president of the board of Habitat for Humanity of Kanawha and Putnam. In her free time, Pamela is, by turns, a writer, singer, creator and joy seeker. Pamela has co-founded an online music festival, helped produce albums and performed on stages across the country. She also enjoys photography, but her real love is reading and writing poetry. She is a mother to a 10 year old boy and a rescue dog and cat. Resources Connect with Pamela Kesling on Pamela Kesling on : @pamelalives Pamela’s for her shared creative works Books recommended by Pamela, both by author Don Miguel Ruiz: Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor Graphic Design Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod How Can You Help Support the Growth of this Podcast? Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Become a patron of the show and with funding. Episode Chapters (0:03:55) - Growing Up in Rural West Virginia and “Watch for Deer” Pamela Kesling shares her childhood creativity and wisdom on nature's role in her life. The story behind her Tweet, an essential WV phrase that went viral (0:7:30) - Making a Lifelong Connection Serving coffee in a book shop, leading to a career in marketing and business development, plus a lifelong friendship. (0:10:00) - Pamela’s Main Thing Wisdom Pamela shares her journey to inner peace through reading, reflection, meditation and intentional joy-seeking. Her focus on being soft and open is key to letting go and being resilient. (0:12:40) - How to Avoid Getting Caught Up in the Swirl Being present and pausing: a quick, in-the-moment meditation to become centered and calm. Pamela discusses her journey to self-awareness and learning to trust herself. ~~~~~ Show notes developed in part with resources from: https://podium.page /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/27348999

Ep. 93: Marc Gorlin Shares Transformative Wisdom 06/13/2023

Ep. 93: Marc Gorlin Shares Transformative Wisdom Welcome to The Main Thing Podcast. Our special guest is a savvy, serial entrepreneur with several start-ups and successful exits to his credit. Marc Gorlin is the founder and CEO of Roadie, a UPS Company. Roadie is a logistics management and crowdsourced delivery platform that provides businesses with a faster, cheaper, more scalable delivery solution. Before launching Roadie, Marc co-founded Kabbage Inc., VerticalOne Corporation, and Pretty Good Privacy (Also called “PGP”). He received the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year® National Award in 2021 and the John Imlay Leadership Award in 2022. Marc joins us today from Atlanta. Buckle up! Over the next 9 minutes, you will discover why Marc Gorlin is one of the wisest people I know. Resources Marc Gorlin on The Roadie News announcing Marc as the 2021 EY Entrepreneur Of The Year® Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor So You'd Like to Help Support the Growth of this Podcast? Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Become a patron of the show and with funding. Content You’ll Enjoy in this Podcast [00:01] - Intro [01:07] - Brief bio for Marc Gorlin [02:00] - Welcome and opening dialog [02:35] - The story behind Roadie; Marc’s moment of inspiration; Glenn from UCLA [05:01] - How Marc and Skip are connected; Steve Denton () [05:33] - The source of entrepreneurial inspiration in Marc’s life; value of struggle [07:00] - Opportunity for you to support our work and help keep the wisdom flowing [08:08] - Marc reveals his Main Thing; the value of a journalism degree [08:55] - How to gain customers and partners … or convince that first employee to join [09:30] - Igniting people’s imagination; bringing your ideas to life [10:00] - Real examples of the business model solving problems; Roadie comes to life [10:27] - Skip describes the movie that was playing inside his mind [11:30] - Marc shares two specific pieces of advice for aspiring entrepreneurs [12:39] - The value of an MVP versus the mythical perfect product [13:20] - Thank you and so-long [13:43] - Outro /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/27132045

Ep. 92 - Air force One Pilot Mike Grenke Shares Enduring Wisdom 05/27/2023

Ep. 92 - Air force One Pilot Mike Grenke Shares Enduring Wisdom Welcome back to the Main Thing Podcast. Today’s special guest is someone who had the honor of flying Air Force One, for President George W. Bush. Mike Grenke is a retired Air Force pilot and Lieutenant Colonel with 21 years of service. He started out flying the KC-135 in the Air Force and then transitioned into flying the nation’s leaders in Gulfstream III/IV/V before finishing his career flying Air Force One. Today, Mike is the Chief Pilot for LAW Aviation, working in a small flight department that flies a Global 6000. Mike is married to Tammy Grenke and has 2 daughters Courtney and Ashley. He is the proud grandfather of Reagan and Cayden. Mike is an outdoor enthusiast who likes biking, hiking, hunting and fishing. He comes to us today from his home in Ohio. Fasten your safety belt and put your seat in the upright position. Get ready for take-off. Over the next 9 minutes, you will discover why Mike Grenke is one of the wisest people I know. Resources Mike Grenke on featuring mutual friend Scott Rider The Poem Mike Read: “Just A Weaver” by Benjamin Malachi Franklin My life is but a weaving Between my Lord and me; I cannot choose the colors He worketh steadily. Oft times He weaveth sorrow And I, in foolish pride, Forget He sees the upper, And I the under side. Not til the loom is silent And the shuttles cease to fly, Shall God unroll the canvas And explain the reason why. The dark threads are as needful In the Weaver’s skillful hand, As the threads of gold and silver In the pattern He has planned. Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor How Can You Help Support the Growth of this Podcast? Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Become a patron of the show and with funding. Content You’ll Enjoy in this Podcast [00:01] - Intro [01:20] - Brief bio for Mike Grenke [02:26] - Welcome and Opening Dialog [02:44] - How we know each other; Scott Rider, inspirational leader, friend [03:35] - Mike’s background as an Air Force Pilot [06:50] - Presidential Pilot duty; flying President Bush in Air Force One [08:18] - Mike’s Main Thing is revealed; powerful quote from WWII Admiral Bull Halsey [09:14] - Leaning into wisdom as we navigate life’s challenges [10:22] - Mike’s wife Tammy; her health journey [12:54] - Some meetings are more important than others; pivotal decision; wise counsel [14:10] - Tammy comes back home; faith [15:00] - Finding comfort and joy amidst hardships; Mike shares a treasured poem [16:08] - Discerning the Lord’s pattern; the real Superhero in Mike’s story - Tammy [17:07] - Thank you; so long for now [17:30] - Outro [17:48] - An opportunity for you to help us keep the wisdom flowing /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/26967108

Special Episode - Switching Microphones with Mark Burdette 05/09/2023

Special Episode - Switching Microphones with Mark Burdette In this special episode of The Main Thing, our show host Skip Lineberg switched microphones with entrepreneur Mark Burdette. As Mark interviewed Skip, they explored his journey of hacking wisdom over the past three and a half years. This show was recorded at the West Virginia Culture Center in Charleston, WV. People know Mark Burdette as the voice of entrepreneurship in West Virginia. Whether it is coaching business owners one-on-one, in a group setting, or collaborating with business and community leaders to help them develop and grow, an entrepreneurship ecosystem is what drives Mark. Mark Burdette is a gifted connector and a devoted, generous ‘people person’ whose hobbies include photography, media, technology, sports and podcasting. He presently serves as Program Coordinator of . From Skip’s lifelong attraction to wise people to his recent interview with Tom Peters, this episode is a testament to the transformative power of wisdom, mentors, purpose, and faith. Listen in as they discuss Skip’s experience at a retreat with Tom Peters where he asked, "What did God put you on this earth to do?" This question prompted self-reflection that helped Skip identify and articulate his life's purpose for the first time. They discuss how taking the time to reflect on these themes can make a significant impact on our personal and professional lives. Join the duo in exploring the concept of living a good life by pursuing purpose with strong faith. Resources - Tom Peters Shares Excellent Wisdom Mark Burdette’s Stay Connected with Us - @themainthingpod Twitter @themainthingpod Instagram @themainthingpod - @TheMainThingPod - The MainThing Podcast Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor Public Relations + Partnerships Advisor Ready to Help Support the Growth of this Podcast? Become a patron of the show and with funding. Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Purchase Main Thing Merch from our . --------- CONTENT YOU’LL LOVE IN THIS PODCAST --------- [0:00:00] - Hacking Wisdom Skip and Mark discuss hacking wisdom, time, wise people, technology, and entrepreneurship. [0:05:55] - Tom Peters' Impact on Entrepreneurship and Skip's Career Tom Peters' book, In Search of Excellence, has shaped business principles and impacted the host's life journey from 1982 to 2004. [0:19:22] - Discovering Life's Purpose With Tom Peters Tom Peters facilitated self-reflection to identify life's purpose, including a life-shaping summit in Tom’s hometown of Bennington, Vermont in Winter 2004. [0:28:19] - The Last Interview With Tom Peters Skip connected with Tom Peters, discussing his roots, career triumphs, shared Baltimore roots and - of course - his Main Thing. Who knew it would be Tom's final media appearance? [0:37:33] - Living With Purpose and Faith We reflect on living a good life, purpose, faith, reflection, Tom Peters' wisdom, and hacking wisdom. /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/26794044

Ep. 90 - Wisdom Revisited with Jeff Jarrell 04/26/2023

Ep. 90 - Wisdom Revisited with Jeff Jarrell Welcome back to The Main Thing Podcast! This is a special episode. It’s the next in our mini-series “Wisdom Revisited,” where we are reconnecting with a few of our most popular guests from Seasons 1 & 2. As we revisit those guests and their ‘main thing’ wisdom, what will we find? Has it remained a primary driving force in their life? Or has something new taken that place of prominence in their heart and mind? Three years ago, Jeff Jarrell appeared as our wise guest on Episode 19. In this special 25-minute episode, we have the pleasure to revisit Jeff and his main-thing wisdom from 2020. Jeff Jarrell is a financial advisor and small business owner. He has written his first book, which will be published in late May 2023. Jeff is a passionate about serving others, especially through his volunteer efforts in the autism community, as well as other community service. Jeff’s hobbies include cycling, golf, travel and exploring coffee shops. And he’s one of the wisest people I know. Jeff joins us from his home in Columbus, Ohio. Listen and discover how Jeff Jarrell has applied - and perhaps evolved - his Main Thing wisdom. Resources featuring Pragmatic Wisdom from Jeff Jarrell Connect with Autism resources and education Jeff’s company website visit Jarrell Black . Stay Connected with Us on Social @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @themainthingpod @TheMainThingPod Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor PR + Partnerships Advisor How Can You Help Support the Growth of this Podcast? Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Become a patron of the show and with funding. Content You’ll Enjoy in this Podcast [00:01] - Jeff’s's Main Thing #wisdom from Episode 19 [00:20] - Intro [01:18] - Welcome and brief look back to May 2020 [02:30] - Expectations [03:31] - Brief bio of Jeff Jarrell; loving coffee, Jesus & people; serving others [05:05] - Superpower of inviting and including others [05:36] - Change & adapt; Jeff’s life events of past three years; autism; surgeries [06:45] - When parenting requires tough love; authenticity [07:50] - Overcoming health challenges [08:15] - Revisiting Jeff’s Main Thing: “I don’t know” [09:30] - Jeff reveals a new guiding principle [10:40] - The value of a five-minute pity party [11:35] - Power of a positive mindset; the stories we tell ourselves [12:05] - Skip relates Jeff’s wisdom to and [14:00] - Jeff’s powerful story illustrates how he applied his main thing wisdom [16:40] - Discussing Jeff’s new book, “Setbacks and Step-Ups” (coming May 2023) [19:25] - CARES for WV to benefit from Jeff’s book [20:00] - What’s on the horizon for Jeff? [21:35] - Who among the community of listeners might need Jeff’s help? [22:05] - Thank-you and goodbye [23:25] - Outro [23:45] - An invitation for you to help support our wisdom programming ### /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/26663136

Ep. 89 - Maureen Doyle Shares Inspiring Wisdom 04/11/2023

Ep. 89 - Maureen Doyle Shares Inspiring Wisdom Welcome back to The Main Thing Podcast. Our special guest is a Chicago native who’s lived in Nashville for the past 30 years. Maureen Doyle’s path has offered her many twists and turns. As the daughter of an Irish immigrant, she has always felt free to follow her own curiosity and passion. Maureen Doyle’s initial career in banking was followed by a call to adventure in the airline industry until she became enamored by education as a single mom, raising two daughters. The joy she witnessed in their learning led her to the inspiring fun of teaching Spanish, English, and science to middle schoolers for several years. Ten years ago Maureen combined all of her experiences and began coaching others through their new beginnings. Today, Maureen Doyle is a Life Coach and bestselling author. She’s inspired every day, as she witnesses her clients’ inner voices awaken while they create lives that light them up. Maureen continues to welcome life’s twists and turns as natural challenges that are part of the human experience. Maureen joins us today from Nashville, TN. Get ready! Over the next 9 minutes, you will discover why Maureen Doyle is one of the wisest people I know! Resources Maureen Doyle’s Maureen on Stay Connected with Us - @themainthingpod Twitter @themainthingpod Instagram @themainthingpod - @TheMainThingPod - The MainThing Podcast Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Brand + Strategy Advisor Public Relations + Partnerships Advisor Ready to Help Support the Growth of this Podcast? Become a patron of the show and with funding. Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our . Content You’ll Love in This Episode [00:00:01] - Intro [00:00:58] - Welcome and updates [00:01:52] - Brief bio for Maureen Doyle [00:03:02] - Opening conversation [00:03:20] - What’s the bigger challenge: school teacher or flight attendant [00:04:38] - Her career progression into professional coaching [00:05:20] - Her coaching niche, brain science; the stories we tell ourselves [00:06:30] - Going from lit up to talking ourselves out of something [00:07:10] - How to connect with Maureen [00:08:00] - Opportunity for you: help keep this pipeline of wisdom flowing [00:09:12] - Maureen Shares Her Main Thing [00:10:26] - Life incident that led to discernment of wisdom [00:11:28] - Times when Maureen relies upon her Main Thing wisdom [00:12:40] - Skip challenges Maureen with a fill-in-the-blank question [00:14:04] - Thank-you and so long for now [00:14:22] - Outro /episode/index/show/themainthing/id/26510571

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