I Like That Story

The $125,000 a year healthcare cliff and what to do about it. This interview with Jeff Gould's Healthcare Czar, Thomas Asfeldt, is one you cannot afford to miss. In this episode of I Like That Story, Jeff sits down with healthcare strategist and interim executive Thomas Asfeldt—and what unfolds is one of the most eye-opening conversations we've had yet. Thomas has spent decades inside healthcare systems across the country, brought in to lead, fix, and improve organizations at every level. From ICU floors to national cancer initiatives, he's seen how the system actually works—and where it breaks. And he doesn't hold back.

In this episode, Jeff Gould sits down with Scott Sandal—a ranch kid from rural South Dakota who found himself in the middle of one of the most complex and rapidly growing industries in the world: data centers. What starts as a simple conversation quickly turns into a fascinating look at the invisible infrastructure powering our daily lives. From cloud storage and streaming to AI, energy consumption, and global competition, Scott breaks down a topic most people don't understand—but depend on every single day. This isn't just about technology. It's about scale, energy, human behavior, and the unintended consequences of a world that never stops creating and storing data. What we cover: * What data centers actually are—and where your data really lives * How a ranch kid ended up working around the world in tech infrastructure * The explosion of data storage and why we keep saving everything * Why the “cloud” is far more physical (and energy-intensive) than you think * The massive power demands behind data centers—and what a gigawatt really means * Why some facilities consume more energy than entire communities * The environmental and infrastructure challenges of scaling data storage * Bitcoin mining and why it's controversial in the industry * The global race for AI, compute power, and technological dominance * Concerns around regulation, zoning, and unchecked expansion * How communities should think about data centers moving forward If you've ever wondered where your photos, emails, and streaming content actually go—or what it really costs to store and access it—this conversation will open your eyes.

In this episode, Jeff Gould sits down with Tom Henderson, founder of RESGEN (Restoration Generation), for a raw and insightful conversation about faith, identity, and what it really takes to rebuild a life from the inside out. Tom shares how a deeply broken relationship with his father shaped his early years—and how that pain eventually became the foundation for a mission that now impacts thousands of men seeking purpose, direction, and restoration. resgen.org This isn't just a story about success. It's about surrender, forgiveness, leadership, and the uncomfortable but necessary steps required to grow into the man you're meant to be. Whether you're navigating strained relationships, questioning your path, or trying to lead better at home and in life, this conversation offers practical wisdom you can actually apply. What we cover: • Tom's journey from a broken relationship with his father to full-circle restoration • How RESGEN grew from a simple step of faith into events reaching thousands of men • The real meaning of forgiveness—and why it's about freedom, not forgetting • Parenting adult children: shifting from control to coaching • The power of asking: “What do you need from me right now?” • “Taste, don't swallow” — how to handle praise and criticism without losing yourself • Finding your purpose when there's no clear roadmap • The importance of mentors and surrounding yourself with truth-tellers • Why men struggle with deep friendships—and how to build real ones T• aking small steps of faith instead of waiting for certainty L• etting go of control and trusting God with the outcome If you're serious about growth, this episode will push you to think differently, act intentionally, and take ownership of your next step. About Tom Henderson: Tom Henderson is a follower of Christ, husband to Laura, and father to Isaiah and Chase. He is the founder of RESGEN and is driven by a passion to reach people with the Good News of the Gospel and help them restore the broken relationships in their lives. While speaking to large audiences brings him energy, he equally values one-on-one conversations—listening to people's stories, talking about life, and even sharing his love for Costco over coffee.

In this episode, Jeff Gould sits down with entrepreneur and keynote speaker Joel M. Sylvester, co-owner of Five Star Solutions (a customer experience and business process outsourcing company), for a wide-ranging conversation about AI in the workplace, customer service, and what the next decade of business will demand. Joel breaks down how AI is already being used in real companies—agent assist, speech analytics, sentiment tracking, hiring interviews, translation, and even accent reduction—and why we're still a long way from replacing humans in high-stakes, high-empathy interactions. Jeff push es back with the real question: What happens to critical thinking, human connection, and the parts of life that require effort? You'll also hear: • Why “slow internet” and modern travel complaints are (maybe) “stupid and ridiculous”

What can a 94-year-old teach us about life? Jeff Gould sits down with Alex Brown, age 94, to hear the wisdom that only nine decades of living can provide. Jeff believes we spend far too much time comparing ourselves to people our own age. Instead, he suggests we look 20–30 years ahead and learn from those who have already traveled the road we're on. In this thoughtful conversation, Alex reflects on nearly a century of life — from growing up during the Great Depression, remembering Pearl Harbor as a child, serving in the U.S. Navy, building a business from scratch at age 40, and eventually selling that company after 25 years. Along the way he shares simple but powerful lessons about: • Longevity and staying healthy into your 90s • Starting a business later in life • The importance of goal setting • Parenting and family values • Faith and maintaining a positive outlook • What it's like to witness nearly a century of world events Alex has lived through World War II, Sputnik, the Cold War, and the rise of digital technology, giving him a rare perspective on how dramatically the world has changed. And before the conversation ends, Alex shares a couple of classic jokes that show something else about long life: a sense of humor might be one of the best survival skills of all. Sometimes the best wisdom doesn't come from experts or influencers. It comes from someone who has simply lived a long life and paid attention. Chapters 00:00 Why we should learn from people older than us 01:12 Meet Alex Brown (Age 94) 02:40 The secret to staying healthy into your 90s 03:30 Career, engineering, and building a business 04:50 Starting a company at age 400 6:00 Advice for young people entering the workforce 07:40 Advice for midlife career decisions 08:30 Retirement and finding purpose 09:00 Parenting and family values 12:00 Positive thinking and mindset 17:00 Thoughts on aging and life expectancy 18:00 The greatest inventions of the past century 19:00 Memories of Pearl Harbor and World War II 21:00 Serving in the U.S. Navy23:00 Reflections on the modern world 24:40 Alex shares a couple of classic jokes Subscribe to Jeff Gould – America's Storyteller for conversations that capture wisdom, life lessons, and the stories behind extraordinary lives. _____ Learn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.com Buy Jeff's books, CD, and audio book: https://www.ilikethatstory.net/shop Get urgent one-on-one coaching with Jeff now: https://calendly.com/jeffjgould Connect with Jeff on social media: LinkedIn — jeff-gould-americas-storyteller Twitter/X — https://x.com/jeffgouldstory Instagram — jeffgouldilikethatstory Facebook — jeffgouldilikethatstory For booking, contact: Email: book@ilikethatstory.net Phone: (605) 215-6414 or https://www.ilikethatstory.net/contact Send business/sponsorship inquiries to book@ilikethatstory.net © Jeff Gould, America's Storyteller This video is not to be reproduced without prior authorization. The original YouTube video may be distributed & embedded, if required. Callers waive all rights to privacy on this public call in show. If you need private coaching, pay for and book a call at https://www.ilikethatstory.com

Jeff Gould (“America's Storyteller”) sits down with Thadeus Amadeus Giedd for a conversation that starts light—misheard names, funny mix-ups, and Jeff's signature “JEFFARDY” question board—and gradually deepens into faith, leadership, fatherhood, and the power of living with intention. Thadeus, the longtime organizer behind TEDxSiouxFalls, shares what he believes makes a truly great TEDx talk: it's not a lecture—it's a story arc. The best speakers don't try to cram in everything they know; they deliver one unforgettable insight, one unexpected moment, and one powerful takeaway in just 15 minutes. From there, Thadeus opens up about the ideas shaping his life right now—especially his love for Stoicism (Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, Seneca) and how he's combined its virtues—courage, wisdom, justice, and temperance—with what he believes Stoicism lacks most: love. For Thadeus, letting Christ into his life didn't replace the discipline of Stoicism—it completed it. The conversation also turns personal as Thadeus talks candidly about depression, identity shifts, and how becoming a father changed him. Jeff and Thadeus explore modern parenting styles, the difference between gentleness and permissiveness, and the importance of accountability—especially the humility of admitting when you're wrong. Later, the interview shifts to leadership lessons from a recent men's summit featuring John Maxwell and Tim Tebow. Thadeus shares what stood out most: Maxwell's idea of making an impression from afar but creating impact up close, and Tebow's consistent message of living with urgency and intentionality—waking up each day asking, “How do I be a vessel today?” They close with a surprisingly emotional final moment: Thadeus gets one question to ask Jeff, and he chooses a question about memory—if Jeff could relive one day, what would it be? Jeff's answer lands like a quiet gut punch: a return to a simple moment at the table with his mother, fully present, noticing what he couldn't appreciate at the time. The episode ends with a shared reminder that gratitude and attention are not optional if you want a meaningful life. A funny, thoughtful, faith-forward conversation—anchored in story, grounded in real life, and full of practical takeaways. #JeffGould #AmericasStoryteller #PodcastInterview #ThadeusGiedd #TEDx #TEDxTalk #Leadership #Stoicism #FaithAndLife #ChristianPerspective #IntentionalLiving #Parenthood #LifeLessons #PersonalGrowth #Storytelling00:00 Introduction and Name Confusion 04:10 Exploring Biblical Parables 06:59 The Role of TEDx Talks 09:45 The Application Process for TEDx Talks 12:43 What Makes a Good TEDx Talk? 14:57 Stoicism and Love in Life 18:05 Parenting Perspectives and Lessons Learned 24:10 Exploring Connections with Influential Figures 27:10 Reflections on Wealth and Influence in Heaven 29:11 Making Impressions vs. Impacting Lives 32:06 Navigating Personal Struggles and Mental Health 35:57 The Power of Authenticity and Generosity 38:11 Dream Lunch with Heroes and Influencers Learn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.com

What does it really take to build a workplace people want to stay in? In this wide-ranging, story-driven conversation, Jeff Gould sits down with Wendy Alexander, an HR professional (“HR guru”) with 20+ years in talent acquisition, coaching, employee relations, and workplace culture. #HR #Hiring #Leadership #WorkplaceCulture #AI #Burnout #Recruiting #EmotionalIntelligence #TalentAcquisition #jeffgould #americasstoryteller #wendyalexander Topics covered: • Why “balance” can feel impossible (and what helps anyway) • The iPad story: boundaries, structure, and staying sane • AI at work: helpful tool or trust-killer? • The real formula for a great hire (role + manager + team dynamics) • Generational diversity: strengths, friction, and how to train for it • Leadership as coaching, not pushing • Books that shaped Wendy (Jordan Peterson, Catcher in the Rye, Enneagram work) • A candid closing question: Jeff's biggest regret—and what saved him from it

Former professional bull rider Nick Morrison has survived more than 50 concussions, a broken neck, a broken back, and two devastating shoulder injuries that ended his rodeo career at just 21 years old. But his greatest battle came in 2020, when a heat-triggered neurological episode left him fully paralyzed and mute — trapped inside his own body.  @NickMorrisonComedy  #jeffgould #americasstoryteller #interview #nickmorrison #comedy #publicspeaking #rodeo #bullriding #knockedout With no insurance coverage and no rehab facility willing to take him, Nick rebuilt his brain the only way he could: one word at a time. Through music, relentless mental discipline, and unshakable faith, he fought his way back to the stage. Today, Nick is a bestselling author of Knocked Out, But Not Down, a nationally touring keynote speaker, and a stand-up comedian who has performed from Las Vegas to Fortune 500 stages — all while living daily with chronic pain. In this powerful and surprisingly funny conversation, Nick shares: • What it really feels like to ride a bull in front of 80,000 people • The terrifying moment he became paralyzed in his own home • How music rewired his damaged brain • The hidden struggles of professional athletes and veterans • Why bombing in comedy can be scarier than riding bulls • The three disciplines that carried him through adversity • This isn't just a story about survival. It's a masterclass in resilience, identity, and choosing joy when life knocks you out. Nick is now a nationally touring stand-up comedian and motivational speaker. His new book Knocked Out But Not Down recently debuted as a #1 Best Seller. He has performed comedy from Las Vegas to Nashville, spoken to Fortune 500 companies, and inspired crowds of thousands all over the world with his story. nickmorrisonspeaker.comnickmorrisoncomedy.com Instagram @nickmorrisoncomedy LinkedIn: NickMorrisonSpeaker Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nick Morrison's Journey 05:37 Overcoming Adversity: The Loss of Speech 11:24 The Role of Music in Recovery 17:35 The Thrill of Bull Riding and Stand-Up Comedy 23:42 Finding Identity After Sports and Injury 30:13 Life Lessons from Adversity 36:01 The Significance of Belt Buckles 45:28 Overcoming Adversity in Life and Comedy 52:20 Maintaining Buoyancy in Life 01:02:08 The Art of Storytelling in Comedy 01:08:23 Reflections on Family and Loss Learn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.com

Jeff Gould interviews Sandra Dee Robinson (“The Charisma Coach”) on presence, faith, leadership, and what horses teach about emotional alignment. ‪@RealSandraDeeRobinson‬ They start with one core idea: better questions create better conversations. Sandra explains how thoughtful, non-invasive questions quickly build trust—especially for introverts. The discussion moves into resilience, as she shares how Psalm 23 became a source of strength during a season of loss and rebuilding, reframing desperation as growth. A major focus is her work in equine-assisted leadership. Horses mirror human emotion with precision, revealing that calm authority—not dominance—drives true leadership. Stress is contagious, but so is regulation. Even physiologically, large mammals can help lower blood pressure and restore clarity. They also address fame, identity projection, comparison, and the need for embodied presence in a noisy, AI-driven world. Sandra argues that charisma is alignment—when who you are matches what you express. Five Key Takeaways: • Charisma is alignment, not performance. • Better questions unlock connection. • Calm is the foundation of leadership. • Comparison kills momentum. • Presence is a competitive advantage. Website link: www.SandraDeeRobinson.com Social: @RealSandraDeeRobinson Youtube:    / sandradeerobinsonspeakeractress       Linked In:   / sandradeerobinson   Instagram:   / meimsandradee   Facebook:   / coachsandradee   You're invited! To stay connected with my weekly interactive Newsletter for stories, tips and invitations to new perspectives! https://sandradeerobinson.com/newslet... Learn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.com

In a world that often glorifies youth and fame, the wisdom that comes with age is a treasure worth exploring. In this podcast episode, Jeff Gould and Rick Melmer delve into the profound insights that can be gained as one enters the later stages of life. Rick shares his journey, emphasizing the importance of perspective, community, and intentional living. Key Takeaways Rick Melmer's insights remind us that life's later stages can be vibrant and fulfilling. Embracing wisdom, engaging with others, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle can lead to a more positive outlook. In a culture that often overlooks the value of age, Rick's journey serves as a powerful testament to the beauty of intentional living and the richness that comes from shared experiences. 00:00 The Importance of Learning from Others 06:50 Daily Regimen for a Fulfilling Life 13:00 Leadership and Teaching 18:48 Creating Leadership South Dakota 25:04 Improving Education and Leadership 42:02 The Unique Nature of Teaching 47:56 Leadership and Followership 59:24 Reflections on Life and Death 01:04:35 The Importance of Storytelling Learn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.com

In this engaging conversation, Jeff Gould and Ali Gabriel explore a variety of topics ranging from social trends like TikTok to the intricacies of job satisfaction and parenting. They delve into the importance of decision-making skills instilled by parents, share behind-the-scenes insights from various jobs, and discuss the value of cultural exchange through travel. The conversation emphasizes the significance of interesting stories and perspectives in life, highlighting how personal experiences shape our understanding of the world. Takeaways • Conversations can be sparked by interesting questions. • TikTok is a controversial social trend affecting attention spans. • Behind-the-scenes insights from various jobs can be enlightening. • Tipping practices reveal much about service industry dynamics. • Decision-making can be guided by core values instilled by parents. • Travel experiences can shape cultural understanding and friendships. • Life advice from parents can have lasting impacts on decision-making. • Job satisfaction is crucial for personal happiness and productivity. • Effective leadership involves understanding employees' strengths and passions. • Work-life balance is essential for overall well-being. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Interesting Conversations 02:59 The TikTok Debate: Social Trends and Privacy Concerns 06:00 Behind the Curtain: Insights from Diverse Jobs 08:53 The Art of Tipping: Perspectives from Service Industry 12:00 Flight Attendant Stories: Humor and Humanity in the Skies 15:01 Life Lessons from Family: Decision-Making Skills 17:53 The Value of Fun vs. Joy in Life 20:56 Generational Perspectives on Wealth and Legacy 28:59 The Flight Attendant Era 32:01 Reflections on Parenthood 33:46 The Impact of Foster Care 36:12 Musical Aspirations vs. Language Mastery 38:02 Cultural Exchange and Lifelong Friendships 39:57 The Meaning of Missing Someone 41:58 Humor in Cultural Differences 43:59 Time Travel and Historical Fascinations 45:47 Insights from Relationship Books 47:59 Finding Fulfillment in Work 49:52 Leadership and Employee Satisfaction 52:10 Balancing Work and Life Priorities Learn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.com

In this engaging conversation, Jeff Gould and Marty Hofmann explore themes of intentional living, personal growth, and the importance of integrity. Marty shares his experiences from shearing sheep to his current work in real estate, emphasizing the grit and determination required in both life and work. They discuss the concept of true prosperity, which is defined not by wealth but by the impact one has on others. The conversation also delves into the significance of daily disciplines, the balance between family and work, and the power of authenticity in building connections. Ultimately, the discussion encourages listeners to live intentionally and avoid complacency in their lives. #martyhofmann #jeffgould #interview ⁨‪@martyhofmann1‬ Connect with Marty Hofmann: Website: https://www.martyhofmann.com/ with his new website to be https://killcomplacency.com Podcast (Kill Complacency): https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/sh... Instagram:   / martyhofmann1   Facebook:   / martyhofmann1   YouTube:    / @martyhofmann1   LinkedIn:   / martyhofmann   Integrity Shearing: https://www.integrityshearing.com/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:57 The Grit of Shearing Sheep 05:56 The Cowboy Spirit and Its Values 08:58 Living with Intentionality 12:01 Defining Prosperity and Impact 15:10 The Importance of Integrity 17:49 Creating a Life of Impact 21:02 Balancing Life's Aspects 24:11 Character Development and Intentionality 28:44 The Concept of Complacency 31:47 Measuring Progress and Tracking Habits 36:31 The Journey of Running and Personal Growth 39:55 Living with Intentionality 44:40 Understanding Your 'Why' and Authenticity Learn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.com

It's hard to find Significance if others hold you back by using your loyalty against you! Strategies in dealing with these manipulators!

If life is a race, why is it so many of us give up, slow down and turn in a mediocre life? Listen to this podcast and see if you can find the missing word. Enjoy.

All change is both exciting an scary- even Retirement! Some see it as a gaping Black Hole of dread that hampers them living out their best story. Some great tips in the episode to think about and share :) Enjoy!

A person who is living a Significant Life has certain tells. Listen to who has had Significance and who is finding it and what they have in common.

The most common emotion I see when I officiate at funerals is REGRET. Not usually for what was done- but for what WASN'T done. Listen to this episode- while there is still time ;)

Stuck in a rut, asleep at the wheel, Autopilot- Take the Autopilot Test and see how you score!

You learn a lot from funerals- the wisdom from other peoples lives is fascinating but more important extremely valuable for those who seek Significance.

I talked to a retired Financial Planner about Success and Significance- the word he used may help you on your journey

We think of Significance as big things- but it's really finding what you're made to do and doing that really well- a perfect fast-food story shared by Pastor Randy Anderson

The hard part about Finding Significance...is...YES. It's murky! SO I decided to track down a guy who specializes in murkiness to see what he had to say- some really good stuff!

How can you enjoy life if you constantly worry about the others you are responsible for? This is the last episode in the Case Study of Sara- It has a great ending!

People who are natural caring people have a hard time accepting that they deserve the same treatment they give others. How Sara continues on her path to finding Significance

Sara was good at her job...but she wonders if she would have had more satisfaction doing something else. This episode gives her hope and Clarity for her journey

No kidding- for one whole year, she did what she loved- and HATED it!! Why?! Listen and learn as you plan your next stage of life.

We Wrap Up the Case Study of Pat- a man trapped by burnout but set free by a surprising discovery of what he was secretly afraid of. Comment/share and rate if you would be so kind :)

Well someday- you will retire! Some do it well- some crash and burn. We continue Pat's Case Study to see what we can learn and apply to our own future :) (FYI- to synch up with my Youtube and other platforms we have 2 episode 4's -different content- same number)

In this episode, we continue Pat's story. A man who is full of indecision, pressure, worry and anxiety about his future, but is too burned out to see what his first steps should be. What we say to Pat, maybe beneficial to you if you're in the same situation.

A good retirement like everything requires planning. But what if you're so burned out at your job you can't even see a way forward --and the decisions only cause anxiety? Today's episode follows a man named Pat who is in the exact same boat.

This season, we will focus on seeking and finding Purpose and Significance in retirement. Those who are still working-tired and burned out, but still are a little afraid of what they will do in retirement are looking for a path forward. And we do that by Beginning at the Beginning..

If you are burned out, struggling for purpose and confused about where to start, then this is the podcast for you! Join us on a journey to the best year ever! Share this out to people looking for significance in the next stage of their lives.

We like to talk about Christmas Past- but believe me, the money we use these days is a lot better ;) Listen and see for yourself

The qualities of light make it a perfect metaphor for the season - Merry Christmas!

I guess it's up for debate- I'll let you listen and decide on the power of these two words :)

If you're wondering how to have a Merry Christmas- listen to this story and share it with your friends and family- it really works!

Never forget the power of a simple conversation! A story to remember this Christmas Season

The winds of war blow into the life of a high school boy but cannot extinguish his hope

Life is HARD. A story about the power of a Story and of Christmas.

This Christmas Classic has been edited (a titch) to fit the modern ear and the spoken word- but like all classics, it's stands the test of time :)

A number of people are searching for a good Christmas story- here's a good about the power of anticipation

I'm testing to see how many people search for "Christmas Story" in podcasts this time of year. Probably a lot! So expect that bland title until the end of the year- this one is about a 15-year-old girl, a ping-pong table and an empty tank of gas- enjoy and share and enjoy this Holiday Season :)

Longevity- yes- QUALITY better! How to have a little more of both involves a counterintuitive strategy that really works

Absolutely everyone can have the best possible career- here's how to find it!

Running your best race- includes a strategy that is very counterintuitive- and for that reason- worth a listen!

People HATE making decisions- too hard! Here are a few tips from tree surgeons (of all people!) to help. A good episode to DECIDE to comment like and share ;)

How to live your dreams without being consumed in the process! A good episode to rate and share

4 Simple Strategies for being happier- and yes- they work!

Hold IT!! Make no investments, purchases or plans until you put on your Future Hat! An exercise for coping with the acceleration of Change. Rate, comment, share to the ones that are in your thinking group.

When we are not respected, we can then lose self-respect, which a problem for older people in our culture. If you know an older person who needs a little self-respect- here's a novel idea to share with someone you know