Have you ever thought about that small line between the birth and death dates on a tombstone? That dash represents everything—your entire life, the people you loved, the choices you made, the legacy you left behind.

In this powerful episode of the BeTempered podcast, hosts Dan Schmidt and Ben Spahr invite you to reflect on what it means to live a life worthy of your dash. They share the extraordinary story of Michael "Pappy" Quinn, a humble tool and die maker from West Virginia whose legacy of love, faith, and servant leadership continues to inspire.

Mike’s life wasn’t measured by wealth or titles, but by how he made others feel. Kids from the neighborhood—many without father figures—walked miles just to play backyard football with him. When his brother was drafted for Vietnam, Mike asked to go in his place. He lived with wonder, joy, and unshakable faith—teaching life lessons through peanut butter bacon sandwiches, muddy puddle adventures, and quiet, intentional presence.

This episode will move you. It will challenge you. And it will ask the question: Are you living your dash with purpose? Are you showing up for the people who matter? Are you serving without expectation?

As the poem “The Dash” says:

Take a moment today to reflect on what kind of story your dash is telling. Then share this episode with someone who needs the reminder—because while we don’t choose when our dash begins or ends, we do choose how we fill it.

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What does real leadership look like in today’s world? At National Trail High School in New Paris, Ohio, the answer isn’t found in titles or authority—it’s found in actions. In this powerful episode of BeTempered, hosts Dan Schmidt and Ben Spahr sit down with the students behind the school’s Renaissance Program, a dynamic, student-led initiative that’s changing the very heartbeat of their school culture.

The Renaissance Program at National Trail isn’t just a club—it’s a movement. Rooted in the national Jostens Renaissance model, this local chapter embraces a vision that celebrates academic achievement, reinforces positive behavior, boosts teacher and student morale, and cultivates a campus where everyone feels seen, valued, and inspired to lead.

Forget what you know about the word “Renaissance.” This isn’t about knights and castles—it’s about revival. A revival of compassion. A revival of empathy. A revival of what it means to care deeply for your community. These students embody the idea that creating a school worth showing up to every day doesn’t require a title or a position—it just requires a willing heart and a commitment to lead by example.

Throughout the conversation, these young leaders open up about what leadership truly means. “A leader steps up willingly,” one student says. “Even knowing they’ll face hardships, they keep going.” They talk openly about the emotional labor of leadership—making space for others, checking in with those who are struggling, and remembering that even the smallest act of kindness can have lasting impact. From surprising office staff with flowers to greeting classmates they barely know, they demonstrate that culture shifts happen not through grand gestures, but consistent, authentic care.

But the conversation doesn’t stop there. They dive into the complexities of growing up in a digital world—navigating social media, staying grounded in their values, and pushing through seasons of burnout and doubt. When asked who they would most like to have a conversation with, nearly all answer the same: Jesus. Not because of religion, but because of the example He set for servant leadership, humility, and love.

Perhaps the most moving moment comes as they reflect on their advisor, Ms. Laird—a teacher who has empowered them to take the reins without ever trying to control the direction. "She knows what we can do," one student says, choking back tears. "And she’s never said no." It’s clear that her belief in them has helped them believe in themselves.

This episode is a window into the future—and it’s hopeful. It’s proof that students today are not only aware of the problems around them—they're actively stepping up to make change. If you've ever doubted whether the next generation is ready to lead, this conversation will set your mind at ease.

Tune in and let the students of National Trail’s Renaissance Program show you how leadership, kindness, and perseverance are still alive—and thriving—in the hallways of a small Ohio high school.

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What does true resilience look like?

In this powerful episode of BeTempered, hosts Dan Schmidt and Ben Spahr sit down with Misty Hollis, Director of the Richmond Family YMCA and a two-time cancer survivor, as she shares the extraordinary strength that unfolds when faith collides with life’s hardest trials. Proudly sponsored by Catron’s Glass, this conversation reminds us that true strength is forged in the fire.

Born into a fourth-generation ministry family, Misty’s early life traveling across Texas in her parents’ revival van only hinted at the tests of faith ahead. From career ambitions to leading a community, she opens up about how personal heartbreak—including pregnancy losses and two battles with breast cancer—transformed her faith from inherited tradition into an unshakable personal conviction.

“I’m not afraid of dying,” Misty shares with striking honesty. “I’m afraid of not being with Tim.” Her words capture the heart of a love story that’s weathered not just cancer, but the spiritual reckoning that comes with life-altering diagnoses. When doctors discovered her cancer had returned after five years of misdiagnosis, Misty made a bold choice: “I’m running into the fight, not away from it.”

Her story also shines a light on the power of community. From board members who prayed over her to friends who showed up unasked to drive her to treatments, Misty’s experience proves that true support isn’t passive—it’s action.

Whether you’re facing a personal battle, walking alongside someone through theirs, or looking for inspiration to navigate life’s challenges, Misty’s journey offers a moving testament to finding strength in vulnerability and purpose through pain.

🎙️ Tune in now to BeTempered with Dan Schmidt and Ben Spahr, sponsored by Catron’s Glass, and hear how Misty Hollis’ unwavering faith continues to inspire hope and build stronger communities—even in her darkest hours.

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