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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What happens when 5 men drop their guards and speak honestly about faith, failure, and finding their way? In this special live roundtable celebrating one year of the Be Tempered podcast, hosts Dan Schmidt & Ben Spahr reunites with previous guests Brian Ballenger, Matt Roberts, and Shawn Ruebush for a raw, unfiltered conversation about the journey to authentic manhood.

The wisdom flows as these men reflect on pivotal moments when faith became personal rather than inherited. Sean's admission that it took him 38 years to make peace with God resonates deeply, especially when he shares that "no matter how far away you walk from God, it only takes one step back in." Brian recounts feeling completely exposed when he first truly encountered God's presence, while Matt discusses how consistency in faith practices transformed his life.

The conversation turns remarkably practical when discussing leadership through failure. These men reject the notion that leaders must appear perfect, instead embracing failure as essential feedback for growth. "Failure is good," Sean asserts, "because it means you're taking risks and putting yourself out there." Their collective wisdom about coaching their own children, maintaining meaningful male friendships, and leading families through tough seasons offers invaluable guidance for listeners facing similar challenges.

Perhaps most powerful is the discussion about male vulnerability. Brian acknowledges the pressure men feel to project strength, noting "I can't be vulnerable because I have to be strong." Yet all agree that authentic male friendship requires breaking down these barriers to find true connection and accountability. The story of Sean being challenged to practice the discipline he preaches illustrates how genuine friendship sometimes means uncomfortable honesty.

Whether you're questioning your faith, struggling with leadership responsibilities, or simply seeking deeper connections with other men, this anniversary episode delivers authentic conversation from men who've walked through fire and emerged stronger, wiser, and more compassionate. Subscribe now and join our community of listeners pursuing balance in a chaotic world.

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BeTempered Episode 51: Tables Turned – Dan and Ben in the Hot Seat

In this milestone 51st episode of BeTempered, things get flipped—literally. Instead of leading the conversation, hosts Dan Schmidt and Ben Spahr find themselves on the other side of the mic, interviewed by their good friend Matty Ledgerwood. The result? A refreshingly raw and deeply personal look at what it really means to live with intention, lean into discomfort, and commit to lifelong growth.

Dan opens up about a pivotal moment in 2022 when he realized he was just... too comfortable. On the surface, life looked good—successful career, stability, routine. But deep down, he knew he had more to give, more to explore, more to become. That awareness didn’t just spark a few journal entries—it lit the fire that would become this very podcast. His story is a reminder that growth isn’t always born from crisis; sometimes, it’s born from a quiet nudge that says, “You’re not done yet.”

Ben shares his journey of overcoming self-doubt and stepping into his own potential. He credits key mentors who believed in him before he believed in himself, and he speaks candidly about the pressures of being a role model—not just in public, but at home. “What are my kids seeing? What example am I setting for them?” he asks. For Ben, growth isn’t a personal pursuit—it’s generational. His reflections underscore the truth that how we grow directly impacts those we love most.

The conversation gets real about the fear of failure and the voice of imposter syndrome that so many of us hear but rarely admit. Instead of avoiding these uncomfortable topics, they lean in. “Failure only exists if you quit growing,” Matty says, a line that resonates deeply with both hosts. They emphasize that growth isn’t about perfection or speed—it’s about consistency, honesty, and showing up for yourself every single day.

One of the most powerful takeaways from this episode is that growth doesn’t have to be flashy. It might start with something simple—like going for a walk, being honest in a tough conversation, or choosing to reflect instead of react. Dan and Ben’s willingness to be vulnerable in this episode reminds us that personal development is messy, nonlinear, and absolutely worth it.

So—how are you choosing to grow today?

Tune in, reflect, and join the conversation. Dan and Ben want to hear how their journey is impacting yours.
Visit www.betempered.com to listen and connect.

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Meet Nathan Hogg, a 20-year-old from Richmond, Indiana, already stepping into leadership with a voice wise beyond his years. In this powerful episode of BeTempered, co-hosts Dan Schmidt and Ben Spahr sit down with Nathan for a raw, inspiring conversation about resilience, identity, and the impact one young person can make.

Nathan opens up about his entrepreneurial journey, which started at just six years old with a lemonade stand and a dream to own a restaurant. But when COVID-19 disrupted his freshman year of high school, he spiraled into burnout—until a TikTok video introduced him to the power of daily affirmations. "I would write 'I am worthy' twelve times, 'I am blessed' twelve times... three times a day," Nathan shares. That simple practice became a turning point.

Out of his desire to help others, Nathan launched Hogg Helps, connecting young people with local job opportunities and mentorships. His initiative caught the attention of community leaders, and today, he's a communications major at IU East with minors in political science and public administration—still pouring into the next generation by teaching affirmations to 5th and 6th graders.

For Nathan, success isn't about status—it's about surrounding yourself with people who lift you up. His favorite quote from Shirley Chisholm says it all: "If they don't give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair."

Tune in to hear how Nathan Hogg is building his own table—and inviting others to sit with him.

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When retired Army Colonel George Glaze rolls up his sleeves to help troubled youth through horse therapy or counsel police officers as a chaplain, he's drawing from a lifetime of hard-earned wisdom. In a powerful conversation with hosts Dan Schmidt and Ben Spahr, Colonel Glaze opens up about his journey—from leading troops through the streets of Baghdad to guiding his congregation at Beach Grove Church of the Brethren.

With raw honesty, Colonel Glaze recounts the emotional toll of delivering 23 casualty notifications to families of fallen soldiers. “A mom crying in Spanish is a mom crying,” he reflects—capturing the universal language of grief that knows no boundaries. His words connect deeply, whether or not you've worn a uniform.

What makes this episode stand out is Colonel Glaze’s ability to blend battlefield leadership with deep vulnerability. He shares the moment his own healing journey began: after losing his temper at a bus driver in front of his family, he realized he needed help. It’s a powerful gateway into a broader discussion about PTSD and the ongoing mental health challenges faced by veterans and first responders.

Listeners will also be moved by his tribute to his wife Valerie, who attended over 100 memorial services while raising their children alone during his deployments. Her quiet strength and resilience shine as a reminder of the emotional weight service families often carry behind the scenes.

From soldier to pastor, equine therapist to police chaplain, Colonel Glaze's story is a testament to the power of faith, service, and transformation. “In loving one another, you're loving God,” he says—a simple yet profound truth at the heart of his life’s work.

Have you ever wondered how true warriors carry their invisible scars? Join Dan Schmidt and Ben Spahr for an unforgettable conversation with Colonel George Glaze, as he shares wisdom on processing trauma, finding purpose, and turning pain into healing for others.

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In this powerful episode, we welcomed a very special guest, Sam Fledderjohann, whose incredible journey from protector to life-giver is a testament to resilience, faith, and divine timing. With co-host Kim Schmidt—Host Dan's wife—stepping in as Ben sits this one out, the conversation took on an even more heartfelt tone.

Born to a very young mother and raised in a home full of instability, Sam stepped into a caregiving role for her siblings early on. While her childhood was far from easy, she found comfort and stability at her grandparents’ farm—an experience that would later shape her values and skillset.

Sam’s story takes an extraordinary turn when, following a deep spiritual prompting, she chose to become a non-directed kidney donor. Unbeknownst to her at the time, that selfless act would launch Ohio State Wexner Medical Center's largest kidney transplant chain in history, helping ten people receive life-saving kidneys over just two days—all thanks to her.

But the divine orchestration didn’t stop there. After the surgery, Sam met her recipient—and in what can only be described as a "God moment," discovered he was deaf. Amazingly, Sam had studied sign language in college and was able to communicate with him directly. The moment moved even seasoned medical professionals to tears and confirmed for Sam that her journey was part of something much greater.

Today, Sam continues to pour into the lives of others as the Special Olympics Coordinator in Mercer County, expanding programming to include basketball, cheerleading, powerlifting, unified golf, equestrian activities, and more. Her guiding belief? "We are beloved children of God." It’s a truth that’s carried her through both the valleys and mountaintops of her life.

Sam's story reminds us that our past—no matter how difficult—can prepare us for a greater purpose. Her early experiences protecting others, her educational path, and her heart for service all aligned to create a ripple effect of hope and healing. When asked if she’d do it all again? She doesn’t hesitate: "A hundred times over."

Are you listening to the promptings in your own life?

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