Stories in Life. On the Radio with Mark and Joe.

Click here to send a message. We love to hear from our listeners! Send us a text message and share your feedback Death often reveals what truly matters in life. When our friend Gary Anderson passed unexpectedly last October, we found ourselves reflecting on the extraordinary power of enduring friendship and its ability to shape our lives in profound ways.This special episode brings together the voices of Gary's longtime friends to celebrate a life well-lived through stories, laughter, music, and shared memories. From high school connections to sailing adventures on Lake Superior that spanned decades, we explore the qualities that made Gary such a treasured friend – his protective nature, problem-solving abilities, sense of adventure, and gift for bringing people together.Music flows throughout this tribute, serving as both backdrop and vehicle for memory. Friends recall sailing trips where Van Morrison provided the soundtrack to their "heaven on earth" moments – those perfect instances of togetherness where nothing exists beyond friendship, conversation, and natural beauty. Through these recollections, we witness how friendship helps navigate life's unpredictable waters, with Gary's expertise as a sailor mirroring his approach to relationships – prioritizing safety, enjoying the journey, and weathering storms together.The heart of this episode lies in its gentle reminder about life's fragility and the importance of expressing appreciation for our friends while we can. As one friend reflects, "When you lose somebody that you've spent such quality time with... waking up to another day is such a gift." This perspective invites you to consider your own friendships – how you're nurturing them, what you contribute, and whether you're making sufficient time for these vital connections.Listen to this celebration of friendship, then reach out to someone important in your life. Like a muscle needing regular exercise, friendships require attention to remain strong. Who in your world deserves to hear "I love you, man" before the boat comes in?Support the show

Click here to send a message. We love to hear from our listeners! Send us a text message and share your feedback Superintendent Laurie Putnam shares her inspiring vision for public education, emphasizing hope, truth, unity and growth in the St. Cloud Area Schools District. Through candid discussions on leadership challenges, the importance of diverse representation, and an innovative community school model, she highlights the imperative to rethink success metrics in education with a commitment to schools as a place for developing a stronger community. • Focus on hope as a cornerstone of leadership, • Importance of listening to educators on the front lines, • Addressing community representation within school staff, • Implementation of a community school model for comprehensive support of students and staff, • Advocating for new methods for assessment of academic performance across Minnesota, • Emphasis on self-care and resilience for educators, and • Call to action for collaborative conversations on the future of education.Support the show

Click here to send a message. We love to hear from our listeners! Send us a text message and share your feedback Explore the future of with Dr. Lorin Robinson, a distinguished journalist and author, as he unveils the real-world strategies needed to combat the relentless march of global warming. Dr. Robinson, who has spent years dissecting the complexities of climate change, provides a sobering look at the current state of our environment in his latest work, "Surviving the Warming: Strategies for Americans." This episode promises to arm listeners with valuable insights into the alarming rise of greenhouse gas emissions and the pressing need for renewable energy solutions, all while equipping families with actionable steps to respond to the inevitable challenges we face.We envision a wave of climate migration reminiscent of the Dust Bowl era. And as we turn our focus to collective action, we challenge the role of consumer culture in hindering environmental sustainability. This episode is more than just a discussion; it's a rallying cry for personal and collective responsibility, inviting listeners to engage with their communities, governments, and corporations to forge a sustainable future for generations to come.Support the show

Click here to send a message. We love to hear from our listeners! Send us a text message and share your feedback Finding genuine male friendships and expressing emotions can be a complex journey, especially when faced with societal expectations. Join us for a heart-to-heart conversation with our lifelong friend, Neil J Meyer, as we break down the intricate dynamics of male companionship at different life stages. Neil's candid reflections illuminate the stark differences between male and female support systems, and how his early family experiences shaped his quest for emotional connection. Together, we revisit pivotal moments from our youth and underscore the transformative power of having male friends who share our journeys and vulnerabilities.Grief and personal struggles often feel insurmountable when faced alone, but friendships and support groups can be a lifeline. Listen to our stories from joining men's groups and counseling programs that helped us navigate life's toughest times. These shared experiences not only provided relief but also forge lifelong bonds. Additionally, exploring the support offered by Al-Anon and similar groups reveals how essential community and communication are for emotional growth and resilience. We dive into the importance of seeking help to gain fresh perspectives, all while steering clear of the pitfalls of self-pity.Breaking free from traditional norms, we explore how authenticity and unconditional love redefine male friendships and family dynamics. Reflecting on the barriers men face in expressing affection, we discuss the importance of modeling healthy relationships for future generations. Through our conversation, we emphasize the power of self-acceptance and authenticity, and how letting go of societal pressures changes our narratives. Support the show

Click here to send a message. We love to hear from our listeners! Send us a text message and share your feedback Meg Kissinger, a distinguished journalist and Pulitzer Prize finalist, takes us on an intimate journey through her life and work as she shares stories from her memoir, "While You Were Out." Raised in a family shadowed by mental health and addiction issues, Meg unveils the silent struggles that shaped her perspective on mental illness. Her investigative work on America's mental health system is both a career of advocacy and a personal mission.  Her passion is to challenge societal norms and encourage open conversations about mental health.We've all heard the term "stigma," but what if we reframed it as "discrimination"? Dive with us into a thought-provoking discussion on societal perceptions of mental illness—comparing the bias faced by those with mental health conditions to that experienced by patients with physical illnesses like leukemia or ALS. Our conversation touches on the power of language, the complexity of diagnostic labels, and the evolution of mental health issues through generations. Meg's personal anecdotes provide a profound insight into how past family secrets continue to impact our views today, urging for a more compassionate and enlightened approach.Family dynamics can be a source of both struggle and healing, especially when mental health challenges are involved. We explore the intricacies of seeking help, the transformative power of therapy, and the need for self-care when navigating a loved one's mental health journey. Through Meg's authentic storytelling, we witness the strength found in vulnerability and the healing potential of being honest with oneself and others. With a nod to music icons like Bob Dylan and Carole King, we close with gratitude, acknowledging the universal power of storytelling to connect and heal, inviting you to reflect on your own journey of understanding and acceptance.Support the show

We love to hear from our listeners! Send us a text message and share your feedback In this episode you will be transported to 1932, right in the middle of the Great Depression, as we sit down with the incredible Kruschel siblings: Bill, Dee Dee, and Fritz, ages 99, 98, and 96. We promise you'll learn not only about their struggles but also the heartwarming moments that defined their childhood. From family trips to Big Marine Lake and singing during long car rides, you'll get a vivid glimpse into their resilient and resourceful upbringing.Our conversation dives deep into the wisdom imparted by their single mother who championed honesty, financial responsibility, and hard work. Even after their father's death in 1933 threw their lives into turmoil, the family found strength and new beginnings on a farm with their Uncle Carl. You'll hear about their mother's arduous journey from Germany to America, her pursuit of a better life for herself and her family, and the sacrifices she made, painting a poignant backdrop to their story of perseverance.As we turn the page to their move from farm life to St. Paul Park in 1937, you'll feel the excitement and trepidation of transitioning to city life. The siblings reminisce about their mother's legendary cooking, their adventures in music and Boy Scouts, and the simple pleasures of a small-town childhood. These stories celebrate the enduring bond between them, the values instilled by their parents, and the timeless lessons of optimism, gratitude, and responsibility. Join us in honoring their rich tapestry of life experiences and the wisdom they offer.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.Join us as we share the remarkable life of Bill Kruschel, an extraordinary 99-year-old, whose journey from a World War II Navy medic to a beloved member of the White Bear Lake community is nothing short of inspiring. This episode paints a vivid portrait of Bill's early years in St. Paul, Minnesota, his experiences during the Great Depression, and his career ascent at 3M. Bill attributes his longevity and active lifestyle to his mother's influence and a positive outlook, sharing insights on his career transition from the shop floor to management to celebrating his 99th birthday with zest and vigor.We then turn our attention to the tireless advocacy of a dedicated father whose son with disabilities moved into a group home at 19. His efforts to expand education and care for children/youth with disabilities into a network of homes stand as a testament to unwavering commitment and love. You'll also hear about his passion for music, riding motorcycles until the age of 94, and the joy he now finds in riding an electric tricycle around White Bear Lake. The local community's excitement over an owl's nest adds a charming touch to this heartfelt narrative.Lastly, immerse yourself in nostalgic tales of building a fold-down trailer, wartime camaraderie, and the unforgettable Bob Hope shows. This episode is rich with personal recollections, from the Seattle World's Fair to the profound impact of Scouting. Look forward to an upcoming special featuring Bill and his siblings, promising an enriching and heartwarming experience. Tune in to celebrate the goodwill, courage, and determination that define these incredible life stories.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.This is the second episode featuring child psychiatrist, Dr. William Dikel.  Dr. Dikel  pulls back the curtain on the often overlooked role that education systems play in addressing the mental health needs of children and youth. Dr. Dikel helps unravel the complexities facing schools that are caught between scarce resources and the pressing need to collaborate with external agencies. We challenge  the myth that mental health is solely a special education concern, urging parents and communities to come forward and support the broader network that our children and youth need. With compelling stories, we highlight how outdated methods linger in our systems and why a leap towards comprehensive mental health assessments is crucial for change. We delve into the unique challenges that teachers and educators face, especially those dealing with Emotional and Behavioral Disorders (EBD). The staggering turnover of special ed EBD teachers speaks volumes about the pressures they endure and underscores the necessity for a cooperative effort involving multiple agencies. Dr. Dikel  stresses the importance of a clear understanding of mental health and disorders for delivering effective support and simplifying the complex landscape they present. We share a moment of musical connection through African drum rhythms and the poignant performance of "Mi Voz" by Serenade, underscoring the power of artistic expression. Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.Embark on an enlightening exploration of the complex world of children's mental health with us, as we sit down with child psychiatrist, Dr. William Dikel.  As a vanguard in child psychiatry, Dr. Dikel offers a wealth of knowledge on how our societal systems can better support youth facing mental health challenges. Our conversation delves into the heart of the matter, dissecting the successes and trials faced by school districts in their pioneering efforts to integrate mental health services into educational settings. This episode serves as a beacon of hope and guidance for mental health professionals and educators navigating the challenges of mental health advocacy in schools. Dr. Dikel's expertise shines as we examine the co-location of mental health services within schools, a model that has the potential to revolutionize early intervention for children in need. This episode peels back the layers of complexity in mental health care, revealing the intricate dance between legal concerns, financial implications, and the unwavering commitment to the well-being of students.Dr. Dikel introduces the concept of the clinical behavioral spectrum as a vital tool in distinguishing between behavior that can be managed and conditions requiring medical intervention. We grapple with the stark realities faced by children within the juvenile justice system and underscore the pressing need for advocacy groups to merge special education with mental health services. Dr. Dikel's passion and insights resonate throughout our dialogue.  Join us for a powerful episode that promises to reshape the way we perceive and address mental health in our children's lives.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.When the gentle hum of an engine gives way to eerie silence, the vast expanse of Lake Superior transforms from a peaceful oasis into a formidable beast. This is the chilling setting that Mark and Julie Wolak bravely stepped into, and their fight against the capricious whims of nature takes center stage. Vivid storytelling whisks you away to the heart of a raging storm, where they faced not only the lake's infamous waves but also an engine that refused to roar back to life. Their tale is one of nail-biting tension, a true testament to human resilience and the surprising moments of beauty—like a surreal encounter with fireflies—that can emerge in the face of danger.Sailing isn't just about reading the winds; it's about reading the heart, and our guests reveal just how much courage pulses through their veins. As Mark and Julie detail their desperate tacks against towering seas and a sky devoid of moonlight, you'll feel a kinship with this duo, who not only battled the elements but also the weight of responsibility calling them back to land. The storm they navigated is a stark reminder of the unpredictability of life, and their journey—a dance with uncertainty—will leave you pondering the decisions you'd make when confronted with your own tempest.Our voyage concludes with soothing melodies, as the music that echoes through life's most gripping chapters gets a spotlight. From the classic harmonies of "Sloop John B" to the soulful lyrics of "Full Force Gale," these tunes serve as the perfect accompaniment to the odyssey. Their experience, interwoven with lyrical nostalgia, creates a symphony of emotion that will surely resonate long after you've listened. So, as we cast off the lines and set sail into the unknown, let the harrowing yet heartwarming saga inspire your own journey through the storms you may face.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.Join us, your hosts Mark and Joe, as we look back on a year where Stories in Life shared  tales of human spirit and determination. We reflect on connections made across 20 countries and bonds with over a thousand followers who've become part of our journey.  We relive the moments of courage, goodwill, and determination that have echoed through our show, celebrating the power of storytelling.Picture yourself nestled by Lake Superior or walking rain-soaked streets as stories and music play, capturing that rush of love, nature and life. That's the essence of our upcoming narratives, aiming to touch your heart and stir your soul. We'll bring you more entertaining stories to the airwaves and share more tales of adventure. With a heartfelt thank you for your unwavering support and feedback, we embrace the diversity of our listeners, and we can't wait to embark on this new chapter with you all. Here's to the stories and songs that unite us, uplift us, and lead us fearlessly into the future.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.This episode unfurls a captivating tapestry where our friend, Dr. Mark Larson shares a theory of the emergence of the 'age of the heart,' a transformative shift in societal values where empathy and emotional intelligence reign supreme. Listen as we sketch the lineage of societal evolutions, from the bygone days of small family farms, the industrial clatter to our present digital world, setting the stage for a future where our hearts must lead the change.As we meander through this novel era, we dissect the worrying trend of social segregation, pondering how the walls we've built within our communities have fractured our political landscape and dulled our collective empathy. Hear how stories of the past, like Emerson's poetic wisdom, inspire us to cherish the now, undeterred by yesterday's shadows. With a fusion of hope and pragmatism, we discuss the transformative potential of education systems that prioritize compassion and connectivity from the earliest years.Closing with a heartfelt narrative, the episode surfaces the raw emotions encircling love and rejection, echoing the poignant stance of "I wouldn't have it any other way." Whether it's about expressing the hard truths or the strength found in bonds of crisis, our dialogue is a homage to the courage it takes to connect genuinely. By tapping into our innermost feelings, we pave the way for a society rich with understanding, where success is defined not just by personal milestones, but by the hearts we touch and the hands that reach out to us in their darkest hours.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.Ever wondered about the sheer transformative power of gratitude and giving?  Join us on an inspiring journey as we share this incredible story of gratitude and meaningful community change. Hear several first-hand accounts from Dan Kuzlik, whose humble beginnings in Chicago led him to dedicate three decades of his life to supporting a small community in Chimbote, Peru. Laugh and learn with us as we navigate through humorous global travels and learning cultural differences, all wrapped up with a hearty dose of gratitude. You'll be touched by Dan's friendship with a phenomenal woman, Maruja, in Peru, and a profound reading on gratitude from Mark Wolak, written by a close friend, Neil. We also have a heart-to-heart with Father Jack who shares his 40-year devotion to community work in Chimbote, Peru.  This episode is your passport to the celebration of the human spirit, the power of community, and the magic of gratitude and giving. Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.Do you remember your favorite teacher? The one who not only taught you academic knowledge but also shaped you into a better individual? Our guest, Emily Boyle is an experienced middle school teacher who embodies these qualities and more. Her knack for building a meaningful relationship with students and parents alike is both heart-warming and inspiring. She gives us a peek into her classroom, sharing some laugh-out-loud anecdotes, particularly a humorous story involving a creative writing assignment.Technology and education, a match made in heaven or a recipe for distraction? Ms. Boyle shares the pros and cons of technology in the classroom. We delve into the tricky task of striking a balance between using technology as an innovative learning tool and its potential for distraction. We discuss strategies to ensure students are engaging with technology in a productive and responsible manner. Teachers have an immeasurable impact on a student's growth, both academically and personally. Ms. Boyle shares her experiences of this profound influence, reinforcing the importance of truth-telling, character-building, and fostering a healthy culture within the school environment. Stories of connections she's built with her students, and the positive feedback she's received from parents and students, are testament to her commitment and passion. Tune in to our conversation for a fresh perspective on the joys and challenges that come with being a teacher. Join us on this journey and perhaps you'll find a bit of your favorite teacher in our guest.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.Imagine being a kid again, sitting in a classroom, listening to your teacher passionately discuss how important it is to learn and to be your best person. Then imagine seeing that same teacher put her heart into making sure that you are seen, heard, respected and asked to be a responsible and capable person with others.  That's the everyday reality for the students of Emily Boyle, a dedicated middle school teacher at a private school in St. Paul, Minnesota. This episode takes you inside Emily's world, where her commitment as an educator is to inspire her students and have them become leaders of the future. Join us for a deep conversation with Emily as she walks us through her journey from being a struggling reader to becoming a passionate educator. Experience the challenges of teaching multiple subjects, monitoring student progress, developing character in students, and handling leadership duties beyond the classroom. Emily's role has expanded to require high levels of communication and understanding of students, parents and her team members.  Her story is underscored by a powerful message from Dr. Maya Angelou about fighting for a better world. Emily's authenticity and heartfelt dedication to her students are a testament to the impact teachers have on young minds. Prepare to be inspired and refreshed by the passion and perspective Emily brings to her work.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message. As the hosts of Stories in Life, Mark Wolak and Joe Boyle take time to reflect on the journey so far. Stories In Life - On the Radio with Mark and Joe has reached over 525 downloads across 15 countries and 125 cities and towns at the halfway marker of this first season! We reflect on our original purpose and plan and assess how we are doing so far. We invite your suggestions for future topics and are eager to see what catches your interest!In this episode, we share an original poem by Mark Wolak, entitled 'Step Off your Dock.' Crafted on the picturesque shores of Lake Superior, this thought-provoking piece is a love letter to the adventurer that resides within us all. The poem artfully expresses the power of taking that leap into the unknown and embracing the experiences that you weave as a result. So, come along, untether your dock lines, and join us as we continue to uncover stories that celebrate the courage, commitment, and vision of everyday people. Our journey so far has been rewarding, and we're excited to continue this adventure with you, our wonderful listeners!Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.This is the third episode of a three-part story told in detail by Alphonse Wolak, a young soldier who enlisted in the Air Force and served as a side gunner in a B-24 Liberator in WW2.  Alphonse Wolak was 18 when he enlisted and shares his raw and riveting tales from the frontlines of European Theater at age 81. You'll be on the edge of your seat as he recounts the fateful day his unit was spared from an artillery strike, and the harrowing reality of life in a POW camp. His story is not just a testament to human resilience in the face of adversity, but also a vivid reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals during this tumultuous period. Listen as he details the incredible story of his capture, treatment in a German hospital, and his eventual journey home aboard the USS Santa Paul. Alphonse's story is a poignant reminder of love, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of those who fought in WWII. This is an episode that takes you beyond the pages of history, into the heart of a soldier who lived it. Don't miss this chance to hear a firsthand account of a time that changed the world forever.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.Ever wondered what it was like to be a side gunner in World War II? Prepare to be transported back in time as we hear from Alphonse Wolak, a B-24 Liberator gunner, who lived through the harrowing experience of being shot down and captured by German soldiers. Guided by his first hand story, we navigate the chilling realities of war, unveiling the physical and psychological demands these brave men faced. His tale is not just a testament to personal courage but a tribute to the collective bravery of those from the United States and allied countries.He parachutes from a damaged B-24 at the Battle of the Bulge, is captured by German soldiers, and narrowly  escapes from a potential execution.  His story describes in detail an astonishing picture of human tenacity and resilience. The episode concludes with an emotionally stirring performance from the University of Johannesburg Choir, a poem honoring our soldiers, and a thank you to all those who've served and continue to serve our country, preserving our freedom.  Alphonse Wolak's vivid memories of war, survival and returning home is a poignant reminder of the many unsung heroes of WW2.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.You're about to embark on a memorable journey through time, as we sit down with my Uncle Alphonse Wolak to share his unforgettable experiences serving in the now famous Eighth Air Force during World War II. From the moment he enlisted at Fort Snelling at 18 years old, to flying harrowing missions over Germany and Belgium, Alphonse's stories paint a vivid picture of bravery, sacrifice, and loss. As a left side gunner on the B-24 Liberator, every mission was a testament to the fortitude and dedication of young soldiers to our country. His descriptive tales from the front are sure to leave you on the edge of your seat.Alphonse's stories give us a rare glimpse into the humanity amidst the chaos and loss of war. Like his ten-day leave in Glascow, Scotland, when he found a brief respite from the war in the warmth of a local family and the comfort of a pub - reminding us that even amidst war, the human spirit endures.  So, brace yourselves for a journey back in time as we honor our veterans and the sacrifices they've made. Alphonse's first-hand accounts from World War II will captivate, inform, and inspire.This is part one of a three part series.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.This week, we're on board with Gary W. Anderson, a sailor and friend, with a serious knack for adventure and an unforgettable story. We set our course to Lake Superior, the largest fresh water lake in the world, where Gary and his crew find themselves stranded on Cat Island, with nothing but their resourcefulness and a sense of camaraderie to navigate through the challenges. Prepare for a tale that's adventurous, frightening and entirely captivating.Our journey begins with the crew playing beach bocce under hot afternoon sun and enjoying an afternoon of sailing in the beautiful Apostle Islands.  The next day, the evening beach party ends with a daunting reality that the dinghy has floated away from the beach.  The crew finds themselves marooned on the island through the night with their sailboat anchored 200 yards away. Darkness and damp cold overcomes the crew.  It's time for the skipper to lead some serious problem-solving. Hear about the ingenious way the crew constructed a makeshift raft using logs tied with shoelaces, drawstrings, one belt, and a canvas bag. Facing cold waters and uncertainty, the crew perseveres and eventually makes it back to the sailboat via a creatively designed ferry line. Stay with us as we navigate through this challenging adventure, and discover the power of resourcefulness and camaraderie in the face of adversity.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.What if embracing failure could unlock the secrets to innovation? Join us as we sit down with Darrell Mann, a global consultant and expert in systematic innovation, and unpack the idea of learning from failure to drive success. We also dive into the changing dynamics of knowledge work, as countries like India and China rise in prominence, and discuss how the United States can rekindle its spirit of entrepreneurialism and innovation to remain competitive on the global stage.This captivating episode also explores Darrell's new book, The Heroes (Startup) Journey, and the integral role of truth in the age of artificial intelligence. Discover Darrell's insights on the importance of leadership and truth, as well as his passion for music, as we learn about his record-breaking number of concerts attended in 2020 and 2021. We conclude with a powerful song by Otis Redding that serves as a poignant reminder of the value of speaking the truth. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with thought-provoking insights on innovation, leadership, and the future of global competition.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.What if we told you that the secret to successful innovation lies in understanding the relationships between trends? In our enlightening conversation with Darrell Mann, a world-renowned expert in systematic innovation, we uncover the third part of the DNA of success and discuss how identifying connections between trends can shape the future. Darrell shares fascinating insights from his 25 years of experience/research working with companies and organizations across the globe. We also delve into the realm of complex systems and emergent behavior, outlining ways to predict the future by recognizing the relationships between trends and specific conflicts.But that's not all! We take a closer look at Darrell Mann's research on generational patterns and explore the turbulent period of 2020 to 2025 that he and his team predicted. As we examine how these predictions have been playing out in different parts of the world, we also discuss his research on generational archetypes and the implications it has for understanding Generation Z. Darrell gives us a fascinating glimpse into the characteristics of this generation and what we might expect to see from them in the coming decades. Don't miss this riveting discussion that could help you grasp the importance of relationships between trends and how they can shape our future.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.Ever wondered how systematic innovation can transform organizations and businesses for enhanced decision-making? We had the honor of visiting with Darrell Mann, an expert in this field who has worked across various industries and continents with a focus on research and decision-making.Darrell Mann is CEO of Systematic Innovation, Ltd.  A prolific writer and researcher, his recent books include: The Hero's Startup Journey, EveryThink, Dealing with the Mirage and Generation Z.  He shares fascinating insights on 25 years of generational research, the decision-making process for innovation, and the perspectives of people from different countries. You'll also hear about his current work in India, China, United States and Europe and the cultural challenges of operational excellence and true innovation.In this conversation, we get an introduction to TRIZ, a theory of inventive problem solving, and how difficult it is for people to move away from a focus on operational excellence.  We learn about his billion-dollar success story with Procter and Gamble and how Samsung has thrived through use of the principles of systematic innovation. Join us for this first enlightening episode (First of Three Episodes)  as we dive into the factors that contribute to successful innovation and the challenges leaders face in today's rapidly changing world.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.Imagine if you could combine your passion for mountain biking and nature with your entrepreneurial spirit and relationship goals? Our guests, Adam and Mica Harju from Dirt Candy Designs, are doing just that. As a trail-building couple, they took a leap of faith in starting their business, creating mountain biking trails across the United States while fostering trust, commitment, and inclusiveness in their partnership. Join us as we chat about their journey and the innovative and adaptive approach they bring to trail building, as well as the industry's exciting future.In this fascinating conversation, we also explore the joys and challenges of working together as husband and wife in such a rewarding field. As trail builders, Adam and Mica emphasize the importance of getting more people out there, riding bikes, and enjoying nature. They share some of the greatest lessons they've learned from their work together and the unique projects they're working on. Don't miss out on this inspiring episode of Stories in Life, and visit dirtcandydesigns.com to learn more about the incredible trails this dynamic duo creates.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.Have you ever wondered how the power of storytelling can impact our lives and create a lasting legacy for future generations? Join Joe Boyle and Mark Wolak as we discuss the importance of sharing stories of hope and resilience, and how these narratives can play a significant role in connecting people from all walks of life. We also dive into our personal experiences with adversity and the role stories play in helping us find connection in a sometimes isolated world.Discover how captivating and positive storytelling can be both entertaining and educational, leaving listeners eagerly awaiting the next episode. Mark and Joe explore the art of creating content that is real, believable, and inclusive, as well as the importance of balancing entertainment with inspiration. Don't miss out on these insightful conversations - and be sure to visit our website to learn more about us and our mission to share extraordinary stories of everyday people.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.What if you could take your love for biking and nature to create a unique and thriving business? Meet Adam and Mica Harju, the dynamic duo behind Dirt Candy Designs, who turned their passion into a successful bike trail building company, building extraordinary trails across the United States and in Aruba. Join us as we uncover their inspiring journey of starting a business from scratch, overcoming challenges, and balancing their work and relationship along the way. Discover the fascinating art and science behind bike trail construction as Adam and Mica break down their process of working with the land to create natural and accessible trails. From Adam's lifelong biking experience and his talent for spatial relationships, and Mica's conservation core background, their combined expertise makes them the perfect team for this one-of-a-kind venture. Whether you're a hardcore biker or simply intrigued by trail building, you won't want to miss this insightful and inspiring conversation with the energized team behind Dirt Candy Designs.Support the Show.