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C4 Leaders – the ONLY nonprofit to utilize the pizza making process to create space for our companions to be seen, heard, and loved. We also write children's books, host this podcast, and use the most amazing handmade, hand-tossed, sourdough pizza to bring out the best in each other. Please check out PIZZADAYS.ORG to support our important work. Season 3 Episode #27 is Dan Clouser is coming from Colorado (inform, inspire, & transform)You can find Dan via his website https://danclouser.comAbout our guest: Baseball was one of Dan's first loves. He played growing up and when his playing career was over, he needed to find a way to stay involved with the game. So Dan founded and ran a nonprofit youth sports organization called the BIG Vision Foundation, which for the next 30 years would consume his life. Dan coached teams, ran tournaments and was in charge of a 130 acre sports complex. Dan loved every second of that life until he didn't. In 2019 Dan had a calling from God and knew he was being called for a different purpose.The calling, according to Dan, sounded crazy, but it was destined to happen… Dan sold most of his material possessions, loaded up his wife dog and hit the road to see what life had instore.Dan thanks for having the courage to take a leap of faith, thanks for spending much of your youth – investing in the lives of young people, and most importantly, for sharing your many gifts with the world. Dan, welcome to the show. TOTD – “My life is my message.” Reporter asking Gandhi to describe his work…In this episode:What was life like growing up?What are your life's essential ingredients?What is life like living in an RV?What do you love about the game of baseball? Teaching, coaching, leading…The importance of family…speak to how your time with family is different now that you live on the road…Book – The Journey of My Mother's Son, The Beauty of a Diamond, and Four Paws and Six Wheels Across America – great blog about your journey…congrats and how did you get started in writing?PODCAST – The Journey of My Mother's Son… Many Little People, Many Little Places The Chance Meeting of People and the GIFTS we receive when we are present to receive them…What is Freedom?Legacy
A few weeks ago, I re-released one of my old Stepping Up to the Plate episodes as a tribute to Ali Kreiger and her recent retirement from professional soccer. In this week's episode, I will again reach into the archives of the old Stepping Up to the Plate podcast series and re-release two episodes that I did with a dear friend and mentor, Russ Herbein. Russ lost his battle with cancer on Thanksgiving Day. He and I were the co-founders of the Spring-Lawn Optimist Baseball League, which served as the spring board to the formation of the Berkshire Baseball & Softball Club. These episodes were originally recorded in January of 2014, just before Berkshire Baseball & Softball Club rebranded into the BIG Vision Foundation. The episodes were hosted by my old producer, Toni Reece. We talk about how some conversations at work led to an organization that at that time had made an amazing impact on its community for over 25 years. I wanted to re-release these episodes in order to emphasize Russ's legacy and selfishly as a way for me and others who loved him, to hear his voice again. Russ was the type of person who always saw potential in people that they didn't see in themselves. For me personally, he convinced me to speak publicly for the first time and encouraged me to enter into leadership positions as a very young man. Something that I really didn't think that I was qualified for, yet he believed in me and encouraged me to take the leap. Before I was 25 years old, I served as both a club president and Lieutenant Governor within Optimist International. I never would have entered into those roles if it wasn't for Russ believing in me and seeing potential that I didn't know existed within myself. I hope my listeners enjoy this episode and get an understanding of the amazing human that Russ was. To Russ, Rest in Peace, my friend, we'll see you on the other side.
I decided to take a little different approach in this episode of “The Journey of My Mother's Son” podcast. As many of my listeners know, I started my podcasting journey in 2012, with my very first episode officially being released on January 28, 2013. The show was called, “Stepping Up to the Plate.” It told the stories of Berkshire Baseball and BIG Vision Foundation, the nonprofit youth sports organization that I founded and ran for 30 years of my life before Sandy and I started this new chapter of traveling full-time in our RV. The show ran for 267 episodes, with the final farewell episode airing on January 28, 2020. About a month later, on February 25, 2020, I released the premier episode of the “The Journey of My Mother's Son” podcast. During my Stepping Up to the Plate days, I was blessed with the opportunity to interview some amazing people. Some of our amazing alumni, staff and sponsors, but also some former MLB players, MVP's, World Series champions, All-Stars as well as former Olympic softball gold medalists and a women's world cup champion in soccer. Today I want to focus on that one women's world cup champion in soccer, who I was not only blessed to interview twice, but also work by her side organizing and running soccer camps for a short time. Ali Krieger recently retired from a long and storied career in women's soccer. At the International level, she was an Olympian and two-time Women's World Cup Champion, who earned 108 caps on USWNT. At the club level, she played in Germany and Sweden as well a in the United States in both the W-League and the NWSL. She played for the Washington Spirit, Orlando Pride and NJ/NY Gotham FC in the NWSL. However, the Ali Krieger that I came to know was so much more than just an incredibly talented soccer player. She was one of the most humble and genuine human beings that I ever met. She has a strong desire to use her platform to be a positive role model and give back to the next generation. So, with that being said, I wanted to share with the listeners of the Journey of My Mother's Son, the two interviews that I had conducted with Ali during my Stepping Up to the Plate days with BIG Vision Foundation. Whether you're a soccer fan or not, I am sure that you are going to find great value and inspiration in my conversations with Ali. I hope to have her as a true guest on this show someday soon now that her playing career has come to an end. I wish Ali nothing but the best in her future endeavors. To find out more about Ali, check out her website at https://www.alikrieger.com/.
Speaking Podcast Social Media / Coaching My Other Podcasts + Donations https://bio.link/podcaster Storehttps://www.podpage.com/speaking-podcast/store/ Donations https://www.podpage.com/speaking-podcast/support/ ==================== Bio of Dan: MY NAME IS DAN CLOUSER. I AM AN AUTHOR AND A SPEAKER. I founded and ran a nonprofit youth sports organization for 30 years called the Berkshire Baseball & Softball Club, which later became the BIG Vision Foundation. We ran teams, tournaments and a 130 acre sports complex. I loved every second of what I did. I loved working with kids and teaching them leadership skills and life lessons through sports and community service. I thought that I would have died doing what I loved. Then in 2019, I felt a calling from God for my wife, Sandy, and I. We decided to leave our comfort zone and start a new journey. A literal journey, selling most of our material things and setting out across this beautiful country in an RV with our golden retriever, Youkilis. Sounds crazy, but it was also destined to happen. You see I was raised by a hippy named Loretta Magary, she was a free spirit who quit her job and embarked on her own journey in the mid-1980's. Her journey started in a 1967 Plymouth Valiant with the back seat removed to make a bed and a .38 Special for protection and later evolved into a 1978 Toyota camper. After she passed away in 2005, we were able to experience a small part of her journey by going through her old photos and letters. The people that she met along the way were amazing. I'll be conducting speaking engagements and writing more books on our travels. More importantly, this is our chance to continue my mother's legacy of giving back through volunteering. We will tell the stories of the people that we meet along the way. This is truly “The Journey of My Mother's Son” and as Michael Franti says in the opening verse of his song, “Gloria,” “When many little people in many little places, Do many little things, then the whole world changes.” It will be our job to share and tell the stories of those “Many Little People” through this podcast and my writing. Some of the people that we interview may be famous, most will not be, but they'll all have a story to tell about the difference they're making. Some stories will still have a sports theme, others spiritual, some will be about music, others about food, some will talk about travel, but all will be about the many little people, in the many little places who are doing the many little things to make the whole world change. We pray that you enjoy these stories and are inspired to do your own little things to make this world a better place for all of us. What we Discussed: - Having a Podcast while traveling the country in an RV - The advantages of Blogging - His Books - Using a Book Publishers Vs Self Publishing - The Flexibility of Speaking while living in an RV - The Pros and Cons of living in an RV - If you are looking for good people you will find them - Using your Speaking Skills for Non Profits - His new book that will a children's Book in the eyes of a Golden Retriever and more How to Contact Dan: https://journeyofmymothersson.com/ https://www.facebook.com/dcclouser https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-clouser-a222521b/ https://www.instagram.com/danclouser5/ https://twitter.com/DanClouser5 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMUwqVxpp1UOtyFMVnWPC-g =============== Speaking Podcast Social Media / Coaching My Other Podcasts + Donations https://bio.link/podcaster Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/speakingpodcast/ Store https://www.podpage.com/speaking-podcast/store/ Donations https://www.podpage.com/speaking-podcast/support/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/roy-coughlan/message
Welcome to this episode of the #6 ranked stress podcast, where we explore ways to manage stress and live a happier, healthier life. In today's episode, Lindsay talks with Dan Clouser, a sports enthusiast who decided to leave his job at the sports non-profit he'd created to travel the country in an RV with his wife and golden retriever. Lindsay Miller, a stress management expert will help us explore how Dan's journey can help us manage stress.Segment 1: Dan's JourneyIn this segment, Dan shares his story of leaving his job and traveling the country in an RV. He talks about the challenges he faced, the people he met, and the lessons he learned along the way. Dan shares how he found a sense of connection and purpose during his journey.Segment 2: Nature and StressLindsay and Dan explore how nature can help us manage stress. They talk about the benefits of spending time in nature, including reduced anxiety and improved mood. Lindsay and Dan discuss how being in nature can help us feel more connected and grounded.Segment 3: Connection and CommunityIn this segment, Dan shares how his journey helped him realize that we're all connected and how important community is. He talks about the people he met on the road and how they helped him feel a sense of belonging. Lindsay and Dan discuss how building connections and community can help us manage stress and feel more fulfilled in our lives.Segment 4: TakeawaysIn this final segment, Lindsay and Dan share their key takeaways from the conversation. They talk about the importance of connection, community, and nature in managing stress and finding purpose. Dan encourages listeners to take a chance and explore the world around them, even if it means stepping outside their comfort zone.Conclusion:Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Stress Nanny podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review us on your favorite podcast platform. And don't forget to join us next time as we explore more ways to manage stress and live a happier, healthier life.Dan Clouser founded and ran a nonprofit youth sports organization for over 30 years called the Berkshire Baseball & Softball Club, which later became the BIG Vision Foundation. He loved every second of what he did. Then in 2019, he and his wife, Sandy decided to leave their comfort zone and start a new journey selling most of their material things and setting out across this beautiful country in an RV with their golden retriever, Youkilis. Dan loves sharing his story on his website! You can also find on Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook.Lindsay Miller is a kids mindfulness coach, mindfulness educator and host of The Stress Nanny Podcast. She is known for her suitcase tricks and playful laugh. When she's not playing catch with her daughter or rollerblading on local trails with her huLindsay Miller is a distinguished kids mindfulness coach, mindfulness educator and host of The Stress Nanny Podcast. She is known for her suitcase tricks and playful laugh. When she's not playing catch with her daughter or rollerblading on local trails with her husband, you can find her using her 20+ years of child development study and mindfulness certification to dream up new ways to get kids excited about deep breathing. Having been featured on numerous podcasts, platforms and publications, Lindsay's words of wisdom are high impact and leave a lasting impression wherever she goes. To sign up for Lindsay's "Calm & Collected" Newsletter click here.
How has Dan Clouser found his passion beyond the diamond?As we get older, we learn that life is more about the journey than the destination. This isn't always the case when we are in our younger years when chasing our goals often means we are hyper-focused on outcomes. One of my great joys in life is helping young people appreciate the journey while pursuing their dreams.My guest in this episode, Dan Clouser, invested over 30 years in building the Berkshire Baseball & Softball Club, which later became the BIG Vision Foundation. Dan mentored young athletes with the purpose of developing successful adults. In his second act of life, Dan is getting the opportunity to see how the seeds he planted in his first act are growing.In Episode 57, Dan shares how he has transitioned into truly enjoying his journey as an author, podcast host, and full-time nomad. Dan shares how he transitioned from his first passion in life to his new passion.So, what's your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Dan Clouser?My biggest takeaway is that investing in young people pays dividends that we often don't fully realize. Appreciating the coaching journey is the recipe for having the greatest impact on young athletes.My suggestion to coaches is make your best effort to coach the person, not the game. All of us are competitive and want to win. However, we can often lose sight of the long-term impacts we have on young athletes through our actions.I want to thank Dan for his kind generosity and the wisdom he shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can learn more about Dan at https://journeyofmymothersson.com/.To learn how mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than against you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 58!
www.athleteassessments.comreports Participation in sport is linked to higher grades, lower dropout rate, reduced truancy, and lower crime rates. This manifests in some compelling statistics such as: 95% of Fortune 500 executives participated in high school athletics. For Dan Clouser” I'm a an Author, Blogger, Podcast Host, Speaker & Consultant I founded and ran a non-profit youth sports organization for 30 years called the Berkshire Baseball & Softball Club, which later became the BIG Vision Foundation. We ran teams, tournaments and a 130-acre sports complex. I loved every second of what I did. I loved working with kids and teaching them leadership skills and life lessons through sports and community service. I thought that I would have died doing what I loved. Then in 2019, I felt a calling from God for my wife, Sandy, and I. We decided to leave our comfort zone and start a new journey. A literal journey, selling most of our material things and setting out across this beautiful country in an RV with our golden retriever, Youkilis. Sounds crazy, but it was also destined to happen. You see I was raised by a hippy named Loretta Magary, she was a free spirit who quit her job and embarked on her own journey in the mid-1980's. Her journey started in a 1967 Plymouth Valiant with the back seat removed to make a bed and a .38 Special for protection and later evolved into a 1978 Toyota camper. After she passed away in 2005, we were able to experience a small part of her journey by going through her old photos and letters. The people that she met along the way were amazing. I'll be conducting speaking engagements and writing more books during our travels. More importantly, this is our chance to continue my mother's legacy of giving back through volunteering. We will tell the stories of the people that we meet along the way. This is truly “The Journey of My Mother's Son” and as Michael Franti says in the opening verse of his song, “Gloria,” “When many little people in many little places, do many little things, then the whole world changes.” It will be our job to share and tell the stories of those “Many Little People” through this podcast and my writing. Some of the people that we interview may be famous, most will not be, but they'll all have a story to tell about the difference they're making. Some stories will still have a sports theme, others spiritual, some will be about music, others about food, some will talk about travel, but all will be about the many little people, in the many little places who are doing the many little things to make the whole world change. We pray that you enjoy these stories and are inspired to do your own little things to make this world a better place for all of us.“ He joined me this week to tell me more. For more information: https://journeyofmymothersson.com/ Twitter: @DanClouser5 Instagram: @DanClouser5 LinkedIn: @DanClouser
Episode 54 introduces caring Coach Dan Clouser. After spending over 30 years founding and operating BIG Vision Foundation, coaching baseball and softball, Dan and his wife took a huge risk jumping head-first into the RV Nomad lifestyle. They sold most of what they had to purse a life of freedom and purpose. He now does consulting work along with being an author and podcaster to supplement their new life journey together. Subscribe here for more content - https://anchor.fm/thelivingnumberspodcast/subscribe You can find his podcast and book about their travels here Journey of My Mother's Son - Many Little People (journeyofmymothersson.com). Timestamps 0:00 Opening :41 Introducing Dan Clouser 2:21 My Mom Lives Everywhere 8:47 RV Nomad Lifestyle 18:47 A Real Life Baseball GM 28:11 Reinventing Yourself 33:44 3 Whats? Unpopular Opinions, Life Changes & Advice 39:00 Where To Find Dan Clouser For more content FOLLOW Tony Rambles & The Living Numbers Podcast: Official Site: ➡️ https://anchor.fm/thelivingnumberspodcast YouTube: ➡️ https://www.youtube.com/c/thelivingnumberspodcast Instagram: ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/thelivingnumberspodcast TikTok: ➡️ https://www.tiktok.com/@thelivingnumberspodcast Facebook: ➡️ https://www.facebook.com/thelivingnumberspodcast Fanbase: ➡️ https://fanbase.com/thelivingnumberspodcast --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thelivingnumberspodcast/message
Dan Clouser founded and ran a nonprofit youth sports organization for 30 years called the Berkshire Baseball & Softball Club, which later became the BIG Vision Foundation. He truly loved every second of what he did. His passion was working with kids and teaching them leadership skills and life lessons through sports and community service. He honestly thought that he would have died doing what he loved. Then in 2019, Dan felt a calling from God for his wife, Sandy, and him to leave their comfort zone and start a new journey. A literal journey, selling most of their material things and setting out across this beautiful country in an RV with their golden retriever, Youkilis. Sounds crazy, but it was also destined to happen.
In this episode of “The Journey of My Mother's Son” podcast, I sit down to talk with Rick Stratton. Rick in a member of the Brandywine Base Ball Club of West Chester. The club is one of over 150 clubs nationwide that take part of the historical competitive reenactments of the infancy of our American pastime. The modern-day Brandywine Base Ball Club was established in 2013 and modeled after its 19th century namesake, which formed in 1865 in West Chester, PA and is now 501(c)3 non-profit organization. In keeping with the spirit of the original ball club and its rival contemporaries, it strives to field the most competitive team possible. However, within the competitive context, it also aims to: Provide our members with an outlet for physical fitness through the sport of vintage base ball Educate the public about baseball history, particularly within the context of Pennsylvania state history Serve as a point of community pride and entertainment Rick and I first met back in 2015 when his Brandywine Base Ball Club participated in the George Bradley Vintage Base Ball Festival, which was sponsored by the BIG Vision Foundation. For anyone who loves baseball history, you'll love this podcast.
In this episode of “The Journey of My Mother's Son” podcast, I sit down to talk with Ryan Woodward. Ryan is a board member of the International Women's Baseball Center (IWBC). We first connected back in 2016 when my old organization, the BIG Vision Foundation, in partnership with the IWBC sponsored the Ruth Hartman Memorial Girl's Baseball Festival. At the time, Ryan was living in Wilmington, Delaware and wasn't a member of the IWBC board yet. He wasn't sure if he really should to drive up to check out the event. After some convincing from his friend, Debbie Pierson, he did go, and it turned out to literally be a life changing event for him. A few weeks later, he received a call from IWBC president, Kat Williams asking him to serve on the organizations board. He accepted, and the rest is history. Ryan was the brainchild of the IWBC's Women in Baseball Week and has been an active member of the board since he joined the organization.
In this episode of “The Journey of My Mother's Son” podcast, I sit down to talk with Jennifer Hammond. Jennifer and I connected a few years ago on social media when my old organization, the BIG Vision Foundation first started to organize the Ruth Hartman Memorial Girl's Baseball Festival. Jennifer literally eats, sleeps, and breathes baseball. I'm pretty sure that if you took an X-Ray of her chest, you would see a baseball beating as her heart. At one point in her life, she said that if she could live on a baseball field, she would. Her dream was very close to coming true when we were able to connect and talk at the Baseball for All Nationals as she was juggling her coaching duties between both the DC Force Girl's Baseball team and the Alexandria Aces of the Cal Ripken Collegiate Summer League. She is an amazing human and was recently featured in the Alexandria Gazette Packet for her trailblazing efforts in the game. Still a young adult, she cherishes the time that she gets with her mentors like Jeneane Lesko and understands the importance of passing the torch to the younger generation.
In this episode of “The Journey of My Mother's Son” podcast, I sit down to talk with Maybelle Blair and Shirley Burkovich. Maybelle and Shirley were former players in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL), the league in which the movie, A League of Their Own was based on. I originally met them back in 2016, when I was still with the BIG Vision Foundation. We partnered with the International Women's Baseball Center (IWBC), in which Maybelle and Shirley serve as board members, to conduct the Ruth Hartman Memorial Girl's Baseball Festival. I was able to reconnect with Maybelle and Shirley because we were fortunate to be able get to the Ripken Experience in Aberdeen, MD for the 6th Annual Baseball for All National Tournament. The tournament, which took place from July 18-22, 2021, featured 42 girl's baseball teams from all across the United States and Canada. Maybelle and Shirley love getting out to watch some baseball, but even more importantly, they love interacting and inspiring the next generation of young female ballplayers. This podcast is the first in a series of podcasts that I was able to do on location at the Baseball for All Nationals in Aberdeen. I was fortunate to interview other former AAGPBL players, current coaches and some young players who had attended the event. All of their stories are inspiring and I'm sure that you will enjoy hearing them in the coming weeks.
In this episode of The Journey of my Mother's Son podcast, I'm honored to sit down and talk with my good friend, Justin Schenck. I've known Justin for several years now and we've really become close over the past three years. We originally had a few “chance encounters” before being connected by a mutual friend who had recommended that he would be a great asset to the board of the BIG Vision Foundation, which was the nonprofit organization that I had founded and served as its president for just over 30 years before starting this new journey. Justin still serves on the organizations board today. During our first meeting, we spent over two hours talking and immediately knew that we had unique connection. Over the past few years, we have really become close. Justin had been named a Top 8 Podcaster to watch in 2018 by INC.com and chosen as an ‘Icon of Influence' in the new media space. What started out as a way to connect with top people and inspire others has become a way of life. Now getting played in over 100 countries every single week he is able to make a greater impact than he could ever imagine. He not only speaks to organizations on how to overcome adversity and utilize podcasting to grow your business but he helps others. In addition to podcasting, Justin hosts retreats and live summits. The events are opportunities to connect with like-minded people and achieve personal growth beyond your wildest dreams. His next Four Pillars Retreat will take place in New Orleans, Louisiana from October 21-24, 2021. His next Growth Now Live Summit will be on May 13-15, 2022 at the Hotel Rock Lititz in Lititz, Pennsylvania.
Billy Staples was a just a kid from Jersey until someone saw more in him than he saw in himself. In this episode of The Journey of my Mother's Son podcast, I sit down and talk with my friend, Billy Staples. Billy and I have known each other for just a few years and have really only spent a few hours overall with each other, however, we're kind of like soul mates when it comes to paying it forward. We were introduced to each other a few years ago by a mutual friend and another author, Bob Solomon. As I said, we immediately hit it off. Not because we were both authors, and not even because we both absolutely loved baseball, it was our common desire to use the game of baseball to genuinely help kids. So, when we were selling off all of our stuff, I had a few memorabilia items that I hadn't sold. Knowing that Billy runs BEST, Inc., a 501(c)3 charitable scholarship organization in the Lehigh Valley, I asked if he could use the remaining items of my collection for the silent auction at his fundraising event in November. He was ecstatic and grateful that I'd be willing to donate the items to his organization. Two days before we moved out of our house, I drove to his place in Nazareth and gave him the items. We hung out and talked for several hours and he invited Sandy and I to the fundraiser to be his guests. He even offered his driveway for us to stay for the weekend. I was hesitant to make a commitment because being in Pennsylvania in November was something that Sandy and I definitely were not planning on doing when we started this journey. We already had to be back in Pennsylvania in late October to take care of some things for Sandy's mom, so it was really a matter of delaying our plans of heading to warmer weather by a week, but I was still skeptical of the weather. We agreed to stay in Pennsylvania the extra week, the weather was cold, we had to run the furnace a lot and were going through propane like it was going out of style, but we have no regrets at all. To hear Billy talk about BEST, is one thing, to witness it first-hand, is a completely different experience. Sandy and I were both humbled to hear the stories of the kids that went through the program as well as how the program touched so many former MLB players. As an added bonus, we also got a chance to chat with our old friend, Bill “Spaceman” Lee, who we missed when we were in Vermont, but happened to be attending the BEST fundraiser. God always seems to put us in the places where he knows we need to be. Attending the BEST event recharged my battery and reminded me of what incredible work my old organization, BIG Vision Foundation had done for kids over the years. The ripple effects of being a positive influence in a young person's life are something that will live on long after we're gone. Billy and I encourage you all to, “Pay it Forward.”
Riverfront Federal Credit Union is about giving back to the community that they serve and they serve Berks County. This week on Stepping Up to the Plate, President and CEO Tim McLeod sits down with Dan Clouser to talk about how he connected with Dan Clouser to talk about how he connected with BIG Vision Foundation. Both Riverfront and BIG Vision Foundation have a similar viewpoint in terms of missions and love of sports.
Riverfront Federal Credit Union is about giving back to the community that they serve and they serve Berks County. This week on Stepping Up to the Plate, President and CEO Tim McLeod sits down with Dan Clouser to talk about how he connected with Dan Clouser to talk about how he connected with BIG Vision Foundation. Both Riverfront and BIG Vision Foundation have a similar viewpoint in terms of missions and love of sports.
It’s hard to believe that 30 years ago on October 17, 1989, I, as a young 20 year old man sat in room full of people presenting an idea that I was told would never work. At the time, it was starting the Spring-Lawn Optimist Baseball League and the Berkshire Red Sox Baseball Club. Later, the league evolved into the Quad-County Optimist Baseball League and the club evolved into what is today the BIG Vision Foundation. At that time, I would have never dreamed that it would sustain for 30 years, generating over $100 million in local economic impact and touching more lives in a positive way than I could ever imagine or put a number on. It truly has been an amazing journey filled with ups and downs, but far more ups than downs. Just as back in 1989 I would have never dreamed that that little idea would have blossomed into what it is today, I also would have never thought that today, on October 17, 2019, at the age of 50, I would be called to leave my comfort zone and start on a new journey. Please listen as my podcast producer, my dear friend and one of my mentors, Toni Reece talks to me about 30 years of success with the Berkshire Baseball & Softball Club and BIG Vision Foundation as well as what God is calling me to do now. Here’s to the next 30 years!
It’s hard to believe that 30 years ago on October 17, 1989, I, as a young 20 year old man sat in room full of people presenting an idea that I was told would never work. At the time, it was starting the Spring-Lawn Optimist Baseball League and the Berkshire Red Sox Baseball Club. Later, the league evolved into the Quad-County Optimist Baseball League and the club evolved into what is today the BIG Vision Foundation. At that time, I would have never dreamed that it would sustain for 30 years, generating over $100 million in local economic impact and touching more lives in a positive way than I could ever imagine or put a number on. It truly has been an amazing journey filled with ups and downs, but far more ups than downs. Just as back in 1989 I would have never dreamed that that little idea would have blossomed into what it is today, I also would have never thought that today, on October 17, 2019, at the age of 50, I would be called to leave my comfort zone and start on a new journey. Please listen as my podcast producer, my dear friend and one of my mentors, Toni Reece talks to me about 30 years of success with the Berkshire Baseball & Softball Club and BIG Vision Foundation as well as what God is calling me to do now. Here’s to the next 30 years!
Dan sits down with one of the newer BIG Vision Foundation board members, Jobany Bedoya to talk about what drew him to want to get involved with the organization. Jobany is the Small Business and Latino Outreach Coordinator for the GRCA and has an extremely busy schedule. He saw the value in what BIG Vision brings to the community and our youth to make time to get involved. He has been a huge asset to the organization since getting involved. Thanks for the conversation Jobany!
Dan sits down with one of the newer BIG Vision Foundation board members, Jobany Bedoya to talk about what drew him to want to get involved with the organization. Jobany is the Small Business and Latino Outreach Coordinator for the GRCA and has an extremely busy schedule. He saw the value in what BIG Vision brings to the community and our youth to make time to get involved. He has been a huge asset to the organization since getting involved. Thanks for the conversation Jobany!
This episode is a bit unique. I have the honor of sitting on the board for and incredible organization called the Big Vision Foundation. Every year they partner with Jennie Finch Softball Camps to run a weekend long tournament and training. This is really the frame work that these 4 incredible women use to help secure the future of this sport and shape the minds of our future women leaders. So, in this episode you'll hear us dive into championship mindsets, teamwork, overcoming adversity, and what it takes to continue to push forward event when you strike out. We also have guest question askers as we let the young ladies who attended the camp ask their incredible questions as well. Check out Big Vision Foundation and Jennie Finch Softball Camps for more information. Have you saved your spot for Growth Now Movement LIVE! yet? We have a stellar lineup of speakers and Movement Makers coming to help inspire and teach you to live your best life. Grab your ticket now!
Dan sits down with Berkshire Baseball player, BIG Vision Foundation employee and all around ambassador of fun for the organization Yadi Parrilla! Dan and Yadi talk about how the game of baseball and his experience with BIG Vision Foundation have impacted his young life.
Dan sits down with Berkshire Baseball player, BIG Vision Foundation employee and all around ambassador of fun for the organization Yadi Parrilla! Dan and Yadi talk about how the game of baseball and his experience with BIG Vision Foundation have impacted his young life.
In Part One of this Two Part series, Dan sits down with BIG Vision Foundation Board Member and fellow podcaster, Justin Schenck, to talk about both the amazing Growth Now Movement Live Event that Justin just hosted in downtown Reading as well his reasons for wanting to be involved on the BIG Vision Foundation board for the past two years. Justin is the Host of INC’s Top Rated Podcast, the Growth Now Movement! Great conversation between two visionaries!
In Part One of this Two Part series, Dan sits down with BIG Vision Foundation Board Member and fellow podcaster, Justin Schenck, to talk about both the amazing Growth Now Movement Live Event that Justin just hosted in downtown Reading as well his reasons for wanting to be involved on the BIG Vision Foundation board for the past two years. Justin is the Host of INC’s Top Rated Podcast, the Growth Now Movement! Great conversation between two visionaries!
Dan talks to Richie Bowden, who is the secretary of the Cups of Compassion committee for the BIG Vision Foundation. Richie has become more and more involved in the planning process over the years and he is passionate about helping tp spread God’s love through the event. Dan and Richie share stories of how the event impacts them personally and continues to inspire them more and more each year.
Dan talks to Richie Bowden, who is the secretary of the Cups of Compassion committee for the BIG Vision Foundation. Richie has become more and more involved in the planning process over the years and he is passionate about helping tp spread God’s love through the event. Dan and Richie share stories of how the event impacts them personally and continues to inspire them more and more each year.
Dan talks to Cups of Compassion Committee Chair, Lori Hoffman who has literally been the glue that has held the event together for over three years now. Lori is a board member of the BIG Vision Foundation, a recent graduate of Leadership Berks and the Community Relations Coordinator for UGI Utilities, Inc. She is heavily involved in the community and has a passion for giving back. The BIG Vision Foundation is blessed to have her on its board and especially blessed to have her steering this event for many years to come.
Dan talks to Cups of Compassion Committee Chair, Lori Hoffman who has literally been the glue that has held the event together for over three years now. Lori is a board member of the BIG Vision Foundation, a recent graduate of Leadership Berks and the Community Relations Coordinator for UGI Utilities, Inc. She is heavily involved in the community and has a passion for giving back. The BIG Vision Foundation is blessed to have her on its board and especially blessed to have her steering this event for many years to come.
Dan Clouser took the opportunity to talk with Cynthia Hobgood, Vice-President of Kreiger & Company about the upcoming partnership between BIG Vision Foundation and AKFC. Cynthia was able to visit the BIG Vision Sports Complex and meet the BIG Vision team during this past September’s Jennie Finch Softball Camp and immediately bought into the BIG Vision mission and recognized that it was an organization and group of people who aligned with the mission of AKFC. She invited Dan to the Ali Krieger Sports Complex in Dumfries, Virginia so that he could see an Ali Krieger Football Camp in action first-hand. During the visit, Cynthia, Ali and Dan mapped out a true win/win partnership that has the benefit of young athletes as the primary goal.
Dan Clouser took the opportunity to talk with Cynthia Hobgood, Vice-President of Kreiger & Company about the upcoming partnership between BIG Vision Foundation and AKFC. Cynthia was able to visit the BIG Vision Sports Complex and meet the BIG Vision team during this past September’s Jennie Finch Softball Camp and immediately bought into the BIG Vision mission and recognized that it was an organization and group of people who aligned with the mission of AKFC. She invited Dan to the Ali Krieger Sports Complex in Dumfries, Virginia so that he could see an Ali Krieger Football Camp in action first-hand. During the visit, Cynthia, Ali and Dan mapped out a true win/win partnership that has the benefit of young athletes as the primary goal.
Dan Clouser once again sits down with 2015 World Cup Champion, Ali Krieger, who just launched her new venture, Ali Krieger Football Camps (AKFC). Ali was at the BIG Vision Sports Complex in 2015 following the U.S. Women’s National team’s World Cup championship and is looking to return to Reading again in 2019 to conduct an AKFC at the complex. Ali speaks of the importance of using her platform to give back and help others to achieve their highest level. AKFC is based on “The Warrior Way”, which promotes what Ali calls her four pillars of success, Positivity, Confidence, Trust and Passion. Ali is truly the type of partner that BIG Vision Foundation is looking for.
Dan Clouser once again sits down with 2015 World Cup Champion, Ali Krieger, who just launched her new venture, Ali Krieger Football Camps (AKFC). Ali was at the BIG Vision Sports Complex in 2015 following the U.S. Women’s National team’s World Cup championship and is looking to return to Reading again in 2019 to conduct an AKFC at the complex. Ali speaks of the importance of using her platform to give back and help others to achieve their highest level. AKFC is based on “The Warrior Way”, which promotes what Ali calls her four pillars of success, Positivity, Confidence, Trust and Passion. Ali is truly the type of partner that BIG Vision Foundation is looking for.
Dan Clouser sits down with Kelsey Adams, who along with Missy Lamm, who he spoke with last week was part of the duo of dynamic females to become the first two women in the 29 year history of BIG Vision Foundation and the Berkshire Baseball & Softball Club to coach a boys baseball team. Kelsey speaks of the experience of coaching the boys and how it was more about making sure that these young men had a place to play this summer as opposed to her being a trailblazer in a male dominated sport. Her motive was simply coaching for the kids, which is what every coaches motive should always be. The game has always and should still remain to be about the kids, not about the coaches. The coaches should only be involved to guide and mentor their players. Kelsey and Missy both proved to be prime examples of putting their players needs before their own. Their goal was to fill a need to help a group of players and in the process they turned into trailblazers.
Dan Clouser sits down with Kelsey Adams, who along with Missy Lamm, who he spoke with last week was part of the duo of dynamic females to become the first two women in the 29 year history of BIG Vision Foundation and the Berkshire Baseball & Softball Club to coach a boys baseball team. Kelsey speaks of the experience of coaching the boys and how it was more about making sure that these young men had a place to play this summer as opposed to her being a trailblazer in a male dominated sport. Her motive was simply coaching for the kids, which is what every coaches motive should always be. The game has always and should still remain to be about the kids, not about the coaches. The coaches should only be involved to guide and mentor their players. Kelsey and Missy both proved to be prime examples of putting their players needs before their own. Their goal was to fill a need to help a group of players and in the process they turned into trailblazers.
Dan Clouser once again speaks with Missy Lamm, who along with Kelsey Adams became the first two females to coach a boys Berkshire Baseball team this past summer in the 29 year history of the organization. Missy speaks about the differences between coaching boys and girls as well as earning the respect of the young men that she was coaching. For whatever reason, throughout the history of baseball, the sport has always been male dominated from top to bottom. Dan Clouser, who continues to be influenced by his late mother, views all people as human beings and felt that Missy and Kelsey were simply qualified for the job regardless of their gender. Without intention, BIG Vision Foundation once again found themselves on the cutting edge of youth sports.
Dan Clouser once again speaks with Missy Lamm, who along with Kelsey Adams became the first two females to coach a boys Berkshire Baseball team this past summer in the 29 year history of the organization. Missy speaks about the differences between coaching boys and girls as well as earning the respect of the young men that she was coaching. For whatever reason, throughout the history of baseball, the sport has always been male dominated from top to bottom. Dan Clouser, who continues to be influenced by his late mother, views all people as human beings and felt that Missy and Kelsey were simply qualified for the job regardless of their gender. Without intention, BIG Vision Foundation once again found themselves on the cutting edge of youth sports.
Dan Clouser sits down to talk to BIG Vision Foundation and Berkshire Baseball & Softball Club coach and instructor, Missy Lamm about her experience and changing roles as an instructor at the annual Jennie Finch Softball Camp held at the BIG Vision Sports Complex. Missy first became involved with the BIG Vision Foundation in 2016 shortly after graduating from Penn State Berks when she volunteered to help with our first annual JFSC. Missy speaks about the relationships she has made through the camp, her added responsibility of now being a leader and the importance of being a role model to the young girls that she is teaching.
Dan Clouser sits down to talk to BIG Vision Foundation and Berkshire Baseball & Softball Club coach and instructor, Missy Lamm about her experience and changing roles as an instructor at the annual Jennie Finch Softball Camp held at the BIG Vision Sports Complex. Missy first became involved with the BIG Vision Foundation in 2016 shortly after graduating from Penn State Berks when she volunteered to help with our first annual JFSC. Missy speaks about the relationships she has made through the camp, her added responsibility of now being a leader and the importance of being a role model to the young girls that she is teaching.
This Stepping Up to the Plate podcast is an amazing recap of our 3rd hosting of the Jennie Finch Softball Camp. Jennie Finch joined by Leah Amico, Toni Mascarenas, and Crystl Bustos taught the fundamentals of softball and gave great advice on life in the 2 day camp at the BIG Vision Sports Complex. These Olympic Gold Medalist and coaches are inspirations and role models for anyone with a dream. Dan asks them what is their inspiration and why they feel it's important to share their life experiences to the next generation of players. Information on Leah Amico's book is: 31 Day Devotional by Leah Amico Three-time Olympic Gold Medalist, Leah Amico speaks with Dan about her journey and her book. Leah’s inspiration for her book came from her morning Bible Study sessions before camp, wanting to share her stories and encourage players to keep God first. 31-Day Devotional covers topics such as leadership, perseverance, teamwork, sacrifice, the mental game, facing fears, overcoming adversity, and experiencing victory. Can be found on Amazon or her website at www.leah20.com
This Stepping Up to the Plate podcast is an amazing recap of our 3rd hosting of the Jennie Finch Softball Camp. Jennie Finch joined by Leah Amico, Toni Mascarenas, and Crystl Bustos taught the fundamentals of softball and gave great advice on life in the 2 day camp at the BIG Vision Sports Complex. These Olympic Gold Medalist and coaches are inspirations and role models for anyone with a dream. Dan asks them what is their inspiration and why they feel it's important to share their life experiences to the next generation of players. Information on Leah Amico's book is: 31 Day Devotional by Leah Amico Three-time Olympic Gold Medalist, Leah Amico speaks with Dan about her journey and her book. Leah’s inspiration for her book came from her morning Bible Study sessions before camp, wanting to share her stories and encourage players to keep God first. 31-Day Devotional covers topics such as leadership, perseverance, teamwork, sacrifice, the mental game, facing fears, overcoming adversity, and experiencing victory. Can be found on Amazon or her website at www.leah20.com
Dan sits down with a PT Seasonal Employee of BIG Vision Foundation that has been working there for 3 seasons now. Bryn Gautieri, a recent graduate of Exeter High School, speaks about her reasons why she chose BIG Vision Foundation as her first job and her experience working for the organization. She loves the diversity of the staff, the love BIG Vision Foundation shows the community, and that they are a nonprofit that gives back. Bryn is heading to Temple University and having worked at BIG Vision Foundation she feels it will help her in her journey at college and beyond that.
Dan sits down with a PT Seasonal Employee of BIG Vision Foundation that has been working there for 3 seasons now. Bryn Gautieri, a recent graduate of Exeter High School, speaks about her reasons why she chose BIG Vision Foundation as her first job and her experience working for the organization. She loves the diversity of the staff, the love BIG Vision Foundation shows the community, and that they are a nonprofit that gives back. Bryn is heading to Temple University and having worked at BIG Vision Foundation she feels it will help her in her journey at college and beyond that.
Toni Reece talks to Dan Clouser about the organizaton’s new “Work Hard, Play Hard” program. The BIG Vision Foundation, which manages and maintains the BIG Vision Sports Complex in Berks County, Pennsylvania, realizes that it's part of the now over $9 billion youth travel sports industry, but for this organization, it's not about the money. One of the three pillars of the BIG Vision Foundation mission is to "promote volunteerism and giving back." With that pillar in mind the organization developed its "Work Hard, Play Hard" program, in which players provide community service hours by helping to maintain the complex and helping other local non-profit organizations as opposed to paying a registration fee.
Toni Reece talks to Dan Clouser about the organizaton’s new “Work Hard, Play Hard” program. The BIG Vision Foundation, which manages and maintains the BIG Vision Sports Complex in Berks County, Pennsylvania, realizes that it's part of the now over $9 billion youth travel sports industry, but for this organization, it's not about the money. One of the three pillars of the BIG Vision Foundation mission is to "promote volunteerism and giving back." With that pillar in mind the organization developed its "Work Hard, Play Hard" program, in which players provide community service hours by helping to maintain the complex and helping other local non-profit organizations as opposed to paying a registration fee.
Toni Reece talks to Dan Clouser about his personal journey to stop focusing on the negative in situations and start looking for the good in all situations. This personal shift for Dan has created a ripple effect in BIG Vision Foundation's culture. He went back to the basics of the game of baseball and took inspiration from the foundations of the game to help him create this shift. Listen as he describes what it takes to put this new mindset into practice and how he works that muscle everyday.
Toni Reece talks to Dan Clouser about his personal journey to stop focusing on the negative in situations and start looking for the good in all situations. This personal shift for Dan has created a ripple effect in BIG Vision Foundation's culture. He went back to the basics of the game of baseball and took inspiration from the foundations of the game to help him create this shift. Listen as he describes what it takes to put this new mindset into practice and how he works that muscle everyday.
The final part of a four part series, just Dan and Del speak about how the new Work Hard, Play Hard program which is designed to provide diversity and inclusion in the BIG Vision Foundation’s Berkshire Baseball and Softball division is a real difference maker in today’s culture of youth sports as well what prompted them to help a younger, impressionable Erron Archie over 25 years ago.
The final part of a four part series, just Dan and Del speak about how the new Work Hard, Play Hard program which is designed to provide diversity and inclusion in the BIG Vision Foundation’s Berkshire Baseball and Softball division is a real difference maker in today’s culture of youth sports as well what prompted them to help a younger, impressionable Erron Archie over 25 years ago.