Why not you with John OBrien

Why not you with John OBrien

by John OBrien

Self-Improvement Fitness

Season 1

Kevin Bullard world Champion Long Driver Dad Professional Baseball Player

🎙️ Podcast Intro: Kevin Bullard Today’s guest is the kind of man who doesn’t just chase greatness—he pedals, swings, and drives straight through it. Born during a snowstorm in Rome, Georgia and raised in the small town of Cedartown, Kevin Bullard’s story starts on two wheels at age three and never slows down. By ten he was a BMX National Champion. By college, a power-hitting catcher breaking records at Armstrong State. And by his twenties, he was suiting up for the Arizona Diamondbacks. But Kevin’s story isn’t just about athletic dominance—it’s about heart, hustle, and the kind of family-first grit that turns champions into legends. After stepping away from pro baseball to raise his son, Kevin picked up a golf club and launched a second career in long drive competitions, sending balls over 400 yards and collecting titles like they were tee markers. Now, he’s a successful entrepreneur in the insurance world, a proud father of two, and a man who knows how to entertain a crowd—whether it’s on the field, the fairway, or the corporate stage. From BMX tracks to boardrooms, Kevin Bullard is proof that small-town roots can grow into big-time impact. Buckle up—this episode is a wild ride through wins, wisdom, and the power of showing up for the people who matter most. Let’s dive in.

Phil Young 100 mile Champion Tunnel Hill Champion Hennepin Champion Fleet Feet owner

🎙️ Taking Chances – Why Not You? with Phil Young!!! Phil is living proof that chasing big dreams—on foot and in business—can lead to extraordinary places. Meet Phil Young, owner of Fleet Feet Davenport, recently named one of the best shoe stores in America. But Phil’s not just lacing up success in retail—he’s also one of the fastest humans to ever run 100 miles, holding one of the top times in the world. Yes, you heard that right. In this episode, we dive into what it takes to build a nationally recognized business, the mindset behind ultra-endurance running, and why taking chances isn’t just for the bold—it’s for anyone ready to ask, “Why not me?” From shoes to strategy, grit to gratitude—this one’s got it all. Let’s go. #podcast #motivation #ultrarrunner #Tunnelhill #FleetFeet #PhilYoung #InspiringVoices #RealTalkRealPeople #DiverseStoriesMatter #CommunityBuilders

Beth Jannery Female CEO Titan Writer Mom

Welcome back to Taking Chances – Why Not You?, the show where bold moves, transformative stories, and fearless leadership take center stage. Today’s guest is someone who doesn’t just shape narratives—she builds legacies. We’re joined by Beth Jannery, Founder and President of Titan Strategic Communications, a trusted thought partner to CEOs and a master of executive positioning. With over two decades of experience, Beth has led high-stakes initiatives like a $1 billion global rebrand and helped define the voice of industry giants, including Raytheon Technologies. But her impact doesn’t stop at the corporate level. Beth brings a powerful blend of strategic insight and academic leadership, sharing her expertise as a member of the Fast Company Executive Board and the Forbes Business Council. Whether she’s advising top executives or teaching the art of storytelling, Beth is a force in the world of communications. In this episode, we dive into the mindset behind bold strategy, the power of authentic leadership, and why storytelling isn’t just a skill—it’s a strategic advantage. So lean in, take notes, and get ready to be inspired. Because if Beth Jannery can take chances and shape industries…why not you? 🔗 Connect with Beth on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethjannery/

Taking Chances - Episode 17 - Brian Doerfeld

🎙️ “Today’s guest is Brian Doerrfeld – a Quad Cities native whose journey is a testament to resilience and reinvention. Growing up immersed in golf and sports, Brian’s early years were defined by athletic ambition. But in his twenties, life took a detour as he navigated the highs and lows of bartending, battling depression and a difficult relationship with alcohol. - In 2021, Brian made a bold decision to reclaim his life. Now in his fourth year as a personal trainer, cross country coach, and local 5K race director, he’s not just helping others move forward—he’s racing toward his own goals. His current pursuit? Crushing a sub-70-minute time in the elite HYROX men’s pro division. Brian’s story is about grit, growth, and the power of choosing a different path. This is what Taking Chances is all about.”

Michele Hartwig Race Director OMR Onery Mule Racing Team Hennepin 100 Kettle Moraine

Michele Hartwig is a passionate runner, race director, and all-around trail enthusiast from Crystal Lake, Illinois. Michele has chased personal goals with precision and heart—like the time she ran 63.25 miles in under 12 hours, earning her that coveted “100K Under 12 Hours” shirt and a 2nd-place overall female finish. But it’s not just podiums that make her proud. What fuels Michele most is helping others discover their strength. As a race organizer, she's created events that foster friendships, confidence, and personal breakthroughs. Her own journey—from childhood trauma and paralyzing anxiety to peace found through running—adds a deeply personal layer to her mission. “If I can help someone stop hurting like I used to hurt,” she says, “that means more than any finish line.” She now averages about 20 miles a week and spends more time hiking and biking with her husband, whose resilience after injury mirrors Michele’s commitment to adapting without giving up. She’s powered by AC/DC, motivated by watermelon and post-ultra hamburgers, and carries her handheld water bottle and fanny pack like a badge of honor. Her mantra? “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard.” It’s a philosophy that’s carried her through countless miles—and continues to carry others forward.

Taking Chances - Episode 15 - Erin Montgomery

Today's guest embodies endurance, dedication, and heart. Meet Erin Montgomery, a force of nature from Clinton, Iowa, where she lives with her partner Todd and their four loyal labs. By day, she’s shaping young minds as an educator in Camanche and coaching cross country, basketball, and track. But Erin's impact doesn't stop there—she’s a dedicated dog breeder, raising labs with care and purpose… and she’s an ultrarunner whose stats are jaw-dropping: 🏃‍♀️ More than ten races of 100 miles or more 🏅 A five-time finisher of the Mines of Spain 100 miler 💯 And yes, she’s conquered the Potawatomi 150 miler! In 2015, Erin blazed another trail as the Iditarod Teacher on the Trail, bringing the lessons of grit and adventure into classrooms nationwide. She continues to work with Iditarod Education, connecting students with this legendary race through her passion and experience. Whether she's on a school track or a rugged trail deep in the wilderness, Erin shows us what it means to live boldly, push limits, and never settle. 🌟 This episode is a celebration of perseverance, purpose, and the magic of saying "yes" to the road less traveled.

Mark Ironfield PowerLifter Power Lifting Business Owner World Records

🎙️ Welcome to Taking Chances – Why Not You? – the podcast that celebrates bold moves, relentless grit, and the power of transformation. Today’s guest is living proof that it’s never too late to chase greatness. 💪 Mark Ironfield grew up in Framingham, Massachusetts, where his love for lifting began in a basement with old-school cement weights (IYKYK). Football and sports were part of the mix, but it was the iron that truly called to him. That passion led him to Pep’s Gym, where he discovered powerlifting—and at just 21, he started competing. But here’s the twist: Mark didn’t win his first meet until he was 47 years old. And since then? He’s been unstoppable. Breaking records, dominating meets, and proving that age is just a number. After turning 50, he won every single meet he entered—and he’s still going strong. 🏠 Today, Mark runs a free powerlifting gym out of his basement, welcoming anyone willing to put in the work. His only rule? Show up early. He lives by Lombardi time—if you’re 15 minutes early, you’re on time. Mark is a husband, father of three, business owner, and world-record-holding powerlifter. His story is one of perseverance, passion, and paying it forward. 📈 Check out his records: Open Powerlifting – Mark Ironfield 📸 Follow him on Instagram: @mark_and_dee_ironfield 📹 Watch him in action on YouTube: @Ironfield100 Let’s dive into Mark’s incredible journey—and ask the question we always ask: Why not you?

Taking Chances - Episode 13 - Brandon Bartz

🎙️Taking Chances: Why Not You? Episode Featuring Brandon Bartz What do you get when you mix adrenaline, vision, grit—and just a little bit of crazy? You get Brandon Bartz. In this episode of Taking Chances – Why Not You? I sat down with the guy who never outgrew the wild side. From motocross tracks to trail runs, from launching four CrossFit gyms across the Quad Cities to leading races as a director, Brandon is a one-man movement. He helped bring CrossFit to a whole region, sparked a fitness community of over 500 strong, and still finds time to be a husband, a dad to three and a man driven by deep faith. But the story doesn’t stop there. Brandon’s path is anything but linear—it’s bold, unpredictable, and packed with purpose. Whether he’s sprinting through singletrack or spinning on two wheels with a biking habit he just can’t quit, this trailblazer has a knack for doing things differently... and doing them big. Tune in as we explore what happens when you say yes to the chaos, take the leap, and bet on your own transformation. This one’s fast, raw, and full of heart. Let’s ride. 🏁

Michelle Juehring Cancer Survivor Race Director Iron Women

Welcome back to Taking Chances – Why Not You?—the show that celebrates transformation, resilience, and the people who lead with heart. Today’s guest is the force behind one of the most iconic road races in the world. She’s a trailblazer, a leader, and a self-proclaimed back-of-the-pack champion who knows that “forward is forward.” Michelle Juehring is the Race Director of the legendary Quad-City Times Bix 7, celebrating its 51st year this summer in Davenport, Iowa. With over two decades of experience in race ops, sponsorships, and athlete hospitality, Michelle doesn’t just organize events—she creates experiences that inspire thousands to lace up and show up. Named one of Iowa's Most Influential Business Leaders and a national voice in endurance sports, Michelle’s journey has taken her from court-side operations in pro basketball to pulpit leadership in community ministry—and everywhere in between. She's finished 27 marathons, conquered the Wisconsin Ironman. So, whether you run, walk, crawl, or cheer from the sidelines—this conversation is for anyone ready to take a chance on the next bold step. Let’s dive in with Michelle Juehring

Nashville Country Signer Stephen Paul Runner

Straight from the bayou country - West Monroe, LA, Stephen Paul’s music is inspired by his cajun roots and classic country. Combining a traditional 90’s country style with a modern country sound, Stephen offers a refreshing voice to country music and its fans. At age three, Stephen began his musical journey when his father gave him his first drum kit. Following years of involvement in music ministry at his church, Stephen began playing guitar and eventually pursued songwriting. Stephen graduated from the University of Louisiana-Monroe (ULM) in 2013 and performed with a variety of local bands during his college career. In the fall of 2014, Stephen traded the local scene of Louisiana for Music City in order to pursue his career as an artist. In 2023, Stephen played over 175+ shows and will continue to tour in early 2024, including his debut performance at Country Fest this summer. Stephen has already hit a few career milestones, making his arena debut with Justin Moore and has shared the stage with Tim McGraw, when McGraw invited him to join the stage in singing “I Like It, I Love It” in front of 15,000+ fans at Winstock Country Music Festival. Stephen has also shared the stage with Dierks Bentley, Easton Corbin, Dylan Scott, David Lee Murphy, Chris Lane, Neal McCoy, Pat Green, and Mark Chesnutt. Stephen has since surpassed 7 Million+ global streams across all streaming platforms with a 100k social impact. His 2023 releases, "Good For Nothin'", "Love To Learn", and "Who Needs A Bar" have caught the attention of thousands of fans and new listeners. Throughout Stephen’s career, his music has been supported by Apple Music’s "New in Country” and "The Ward Guenther Show", and Spotify’s “New Music Nashville”, "New Music Friday Country", and "Fresh Finds Country" playlists.

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