Longfire

#46: Ron Schara: The Man Behind Minnesota Bound

Steve Seger — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 09:15:00 GMT

Ron Schara is an outdoor writer, television producer, and the creator of Minnesota Bound. A former Minneapolis Tribune and Star Tribune outdoors columnist, he launched the show in 1995 with his black Lab, Raven, and later hosted ESPN’s Backroads with Ron and Raven. Before any of that, he was a music student who wanted to be the next Andy Williams.

In this conversation, Ron shares how a writing professor changed his direction, why he left a newspaper career for television, and how a red bandana helped turn Raven into the star.

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Chapters:

00:00 Minnesota Favorites and Rapid Fire
02:55 Duck Hunting with Bud Grant
07:26 Growing Up Outdoors in Iowa
09:31 Music School, Journalism, and Andy Williams
15:47 Why Minnesota Bound Started With People
20:40 Raven’s Red Bandana and the Leap to Television
26:08 Leaving the Newspaper and Reaching ESPN
29:09 Peacock Bass, Tarpon, and Piranhas
34:01 Africa, Hunting, and Habitat
36:44 Monarchs and Purple Martins
40:47 Finding the Next Story
42:54 The Fishing Story He Never Forgot

Show links

Guest links

#45: Mike Perry - A Literary Life Five Minutes From the Deer Stand

Steve Seger — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 09:30:00 GMT

Mike Perry is a New York Times bestselling author, humorist, speaker, musician, volunteer firefighter, and first responder from rural Wisconsin. Raised on a dairy farm, he worked summers as a Wyoming ranch hand, became a registered nurse, and eventually built a writing career rooted in rural people, places, and work. He has written more than 25 books, including Population: 485, and performs with his band, The Long Beds.

In our conversation, he explains how a farm kid who once thought authors were mysterious capital-A people learned to make a living with words while staying five minutes from his deer stand. We also learn that if he ever fights Liam Neeson, the plan begins and probably ends at the kneecaps.

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Show links

Guest links

Chapters

00:00 Rapid Fire: Books, Deer Stands, and Liam Neeson
09:20 The Story Behind Population: 485
12:14 Returning Home and Joining the Fire Department
16:37 Population: 485 and a Possible Broadway Musical
20:22 His Dad, Wyoming, and an Unexpected Opportunity
24:46 Becoming “Terminally Unemployable”
26:59 How Publishing Changed and Why Mike Keeps Adapting
31:02 Writing by Triage and the Blue Volkswagen Effect
36:39 Literary Solitaire, Revision, and Fancy Words
42:05 Building a Business Around the Writing
46:32 Where to Find Mike

Thumbnail photo: Lee Butterworth Photography.

#44: Ed Roberson - The Strenuous Life, the Long Game, and Finding Your People

Steve Seger — Fri, 04 Sep 2026 09:30:00 GMT

Ed Roberson is the creator and host of Mountain & Prairie, a podcast and platform about the people shaping the future of the American West through its land, communities, and culture. In this conversation, we trace the path that took him from a small town in eastern North Carolina and a conventional career in real estate to conservation work and a creative side project that eventually became his full-time work.

Ed explains how a health scare and the financial crisis forced him to reconsider his direction, why conservation work moves at the speed of trust, and how years of relationship-building helped Mountain & Prairie become such a distinct platform. We also talk about building before anyone is listening, the book project he is developing, Theodore Roosevelt and the strenuous life, and why character matters more than achievement. Most importantly, we determine that Ed might have a chance against Liam Neeson, provided he survives the first punch.

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Show links

Guest links

Chapters

00:00 Rapid Fire: North Carolina, Jimmy Buffett, and Favorite Books
07:37 A 100-Mile Loophole, Five-Day Fasts, and Liam Neeson
12:55 Tarboro, North Carolina, and the Community That Raised Ed
16:29 Boarding School, Honor, and Learning to Work
18:55 Coasting in College and Following the Conventional Path
21:00 A Health Scare, the Financial Crisis, and a Career Reset
24:28 Starting Mountain & Prairie as a Side Project
26:01 Why Conservation Moves at the Speed of Trust
28:13 How the Podcast Opened Unexpected Doors
29:42 Playing the Long Game
31:05 Building Before Anyone Is Listening
33:44 The Book Project and What Comes Next
35:37 Theodore Roosevelt and the Strenuous Life
38:39 Advice to His 23-Year-Old Self
43:04 Where to Find Mountain & Prairie

#43: Will Harris - What Happens When a Farm Thinks in Generations

Steve Seger — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 09:00:00 GMT

Will Harris is a fourth-generation cattleman and the owner of White Oak Pastures in Bluffton, Georgia, where his family has farmed since 1866. After spending more than 20 years running a conventional monoculture cattle operation, Will began dismantling the industrial model and rebuilding the farm around animal welfare, healthy soil, natural cycles, and a radically traditional approach to agriculture.

In this conversation, Will explains the truckload of calves that forced him to reconsider how he farmed, the hidden cost of chemical fertilizer, and what happened when he stopped looking for things to kill and started protecting everything that belonged in the ecosystem. We also discuss restoring Bluffton, growing from a handful of employees to 170, bringing his daughters into the business, refusing to expand merely for the sake of growth, and measuring decisions in generations instead of quarters. We also learn how a Baptist preacher’s wife saved Will from spelling “Tenac” for the rest of his life.

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Show links

Guest links

Chapters:

00:00 Highway 27 and White Oak’s Place in Rural Georgia
02:01 Six Generations on the Same Land Since 1866
04:21 When a Local Food System Became an Industrial Cattle Farm
07:49 The Truckload of Calves That Changed Everything
10:49 Cheap Fertilizer and the Cost It Hid
16:35 How Water From the Farm Reaches Apalachicola Bay
19:41 From Looking for Something to Kill to Keeping Things Alive
25:32 How White Oak Pastures Helped Rebuild Bluffton
29:00 Bringing His Daughters Into the Family Business
34:08 The Spur-of-the-Moment Decision to Rename the Farm
37:25 Why Bigger Is Not the Goal
42:18 Final Wisdom: Decide What Matters and Serve It

#42: April Vokey: The Wild Life Behind Anchored Outdoors

Steve Seger — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 09:00:00 GMT

April Vokey has spent 25 years building a life around fishing. She decided to pursue professional fishing at 18, started her first business at 21, guided for steelhead in British Columbia, created the television series Shorelines, launched Anchored with April Vokey, and built Anchored Outdoors into an education platform and community for anglers.

In this conversation, April takes us from landing a 300-pound arapaima in Guyana and having 32 spines pulled from her foot to the winter steelhead obsession that became her career. She also explains how a 2008 head-on collision forced her to rethink life and business, why motherhood changed her relationship with risk, and how discarded television interviews led to Anchored. We also resolve two important questions: whether wet jeans are secretly flattering and how many introductions stand between me and Liam Neeson.

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Show links

Guest links

Chapters

00:00 Rapid Fire: Wet Jeans, Campfire Dinner, and Liam Neeson
02:37 A 300-Pound Arapaima and 32 Spines in Guyana
06:07 Turning a Life in Fishing Into a Business
10:40 The Salmon That Started Everything
13:36 Why Winter Steelhead Became an Obsession
18:31 Learning to Guide Before Google Earth
20:46 Surviving a Head-On Collision
22:38 The Injury That Forced a Business Pivot
25:01 Saving the Stories Television Had to Cut
27:31 Canada, Australia, Motherhood, and Risk
32:19 The Dean River Run She Should Never Have Attempted
36:10 Starting Over and Facing an Uncertain Next Chapter
37:45 Anchored Outdoors and The World Through Your Eyes

#41: Tyler Sharp: Africa, Hemingway, and the Story Behind Modern Huntsman

Steve Seger — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 09:30:00 GMT

Tyler Sharp is a documentary photographer, writer, filmmaker, and the founder, CEO, and editor in chief of Modern Huntsman, an independent publication focused on hunting, conservation, food, culture, and wild places. In this conversation, we trace the path that took him from USC film school to the Tanzanian bush, years of traveling and working around the world, and eventually building Modern Huntsman.

Tyler shares the story of a lion with a mohawk mane returning to his tent across multiple full moons and another encounter when a leopard charged him from twenty yards away. He explains what Africa taught him about living inside the natural order, why many of the wild places he knew are disappearing, and how misunderstandings about hunting inspired him to build a publication that could reach non-hunters without preaching to the choir. We also talk about balancing creative work with running a business, his connection with the Hemingway family, and what is coming next for Modern Huntsman.

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Show Links

Chapters:

00:00 Star Wars, Aragorn, and Fighting Liam Neeson

04:48 The Lion With a Mohawk Mane Outside Tyler’s Tent

12:44 Charged by a Leopard in Zambia

15:41 From USC Film School to Six Months in Tanzania

20:35 Larry Knowlton and the World’s Biggest Joke

22:12 The Wild Places That No Longer Exist

27:39 Why Tyler Built Modern Huntsman

32:17 Translating Hunting and Conservation for Outsiders

34:08 Creativity, Leadership, and Administrative Shit Shoveling

38:14 Hemingway, Writing, and a Life of Adventure

41:51 Why Independent Publishing Needs Subscribers

45:02 Mark Maggiori and the Next Modern Huntsman Volume

#40: 26 Conversations Later - The 5 Lessons That Actually Stuck

Steve Seger — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 09:00:00 GMT

After every guest conversation on Longfire, I save one piece of advice that stayed with me. For episode 40, I went back through all 26 interviews and grouped those ideas into five themes: expect the work to be hard, choose direction over activity, build the work around a life you actually want, remember that people are the point, and stay teachable.

This is my slightly late 2026 midyear check-in on what the show has taught me so far. I get into volume and luck, strategy as subtraction, work that gives energy back, the outdoors as a reset, the cost of chasing achievement at the expense of relationships, and why collecting advice is not the same as living it. If one lesson stays with you, send me a note and tell me which one.

Subscribe to Longfire for more thoughtful conversations with builders, athletes, outdoorsmen, entrepreneurs, and original people whose stories are worth gathering around.

00:00 26 Conversations, Five Lessons

01:45 Why Episode 40 Was the Time to Look Back

02:18 The Work Is Supposed to Be Hard

08:34 Direction Matters More Than Activity

13:50 Build the Work Around a Life You Actually Want

19:18 People Are the Point

23:51 Stay Teachable and Optimistic

26:44 Summary and Conclusion

#39: Steve Smith -The Career Move I Wish I Made 20 Years Earlier

Steve Seger — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 09:45:00 GMT

Steve Smith has spent nearly 30 years at the intersection of technology, strategy, and operations, with a career spanning startups, IBM, TSIA, 8x8, and now Intelligence by Intent, where he helps law firms put AI to work. In this conversation, we trace his path from teaching adults to program when he was 13 to leaving corporate America and building a business he says he wishes he had started 20 years earlier.

Steve explains why AI should handle individual tasks while people protect relationships and judgment, how firms can move from chatbots to agents, and how his agent system, Project Ollie, manages email, calendars, research, projects, and client knowledge. We also talk about becoming more present with family, protecting close friendships, skiing with his kids, and the standing rule that work stops whenever his 165-pound Saint Bernard brings him a toy.

Chapters:

00:00 Rapid Fire: Ping Pong, Star Wars, and Steak With Magnus
03:54 Thirty Years in Tech, Startups, IBM, and RevOps
06:46 The Career Move He Wishes He Made 20 Years Earlier
08:54 The AI Advice Steve Gives His Kids
12:40 Building Intelligence by Intent for Law Firms
16:48 Choosing the Right AI Tool and Moving Beyond Chatbots
22:55 Teaching Adults to Code at 13 and Learning How to Learn
26:26 Magnus: Life With a 165-Pound Saint Bernard
33:53 Building More Time for Family, Friends, and Presence
38:21 Writing, Teaching, and Sharing What He Learns
46:24 Project Ollie: The Agent System Running His Business
52:46 Claude Code, ChatGBT, and Agentic Travel Planning
56:12 Final Wisdom: Find What Makes You Tick

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Show Links

Watch on YouTube:
https://youtube.com/@Steve_Seger2

Listen on Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pieces-of-impact/id1851467002

Listen on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/show/2IGYfTSYNvsD96UjUqqCJt?si=f5abdaf2294c4a35

Connect with Steve Seger on LinkedIn:
http://www.linkedin.com/in/steveseger

Intelligence by Intent:
https://intelligencebyintent.com/

Read Steve Smith’s Substack:
https://www.smithstephen.com/

Connect with Steve Smith on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/smithstephen

A New Name and a Clearer Mission: Welcome to Longfire

Steve Seger — Thu, 23 Jul 2026 16:31:30 GMT

In this short solo episode, Steve explains why Pieces of Impact is becoming Longfire and what the new name represents. Longfire will continue sharing conversations with builders, athletes, outdoorsmen, entrepreneurs, creators, and original people with worlds worth stepping into, but with a clearer mission: to tell stories worth gathering around. The goal is to help busy, ambitious people slow down, reconnect, and remember the people, places, and experiences that make the work worthwhile.

#38: Rick Wittenbraker - The Brand Lessons Behind YETI and Howler Brothers

Steve Seger — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 08:30:31 GMT

Rick Wittenbraker has built a career by following curiosity into rooms he was not necessarily planning to enter. His path has included private equity in Latin America, commodities trading, a medical device startup, YETI’s early growth, angel investing, and more than a decade helping grow Howler Brothers. He joined YETI when eight employees shared one Gmail account, then later joined his friends at Howler Brothers as the company grew from a small team into a distinctive outdoor brand.

In this conversation, Rick explains why the best brands know what they are not, why creativity and originality have to be protected as a company grows, and how curiosity can create opportunities that no career plan could predict. We also discuss building work around things you genuinely care about, investing as an extension of learning, creating companies that can outlast their founders, his belief that every business is ultimately a people business, and why he can beat Liam Neeson in a fight (All Credit to Seth MacFarlane for the bit).

Subscribe for more stories like Rick's.

Chapters:

00:00 Rapid Fire: Liam Neeson, Favorite Brands, and Lonesome Dove
06:16 Rick’s Path From Private Equity to YETI
10:53 From YETI to Howler Brothers Through Friendship
12:49 What Made Early YETI Special
17:49 How YETI Turned Coolers Into a Tribe
19:39 Building a Complete Brand World at Howler Brothers
24:48 Protecting Creativity as the Company Grows
27:58 Why Every Brand Needs a “Not List”
30:49 Finding Work That Overlaps With What You Love
36:08 Investing as an Exercise in Curiosity
46:19 Building a Company That Outlasts Its Founders
51:04 Every Business Is a People Business

Watch on YouTube:
https://youtube.com/@Steve_Seger2

Listen on Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pieces-of-impact/id1851467002

Listen on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/show/2IGYfTSYNvsD96UjUqqCJt?si=f5abdaf2294c4a35

Howler Brothers: https://howlerbros.com/

Howler Brothers on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/howlerbros

Rick on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wittrick/?hl=en

#37: Kate and Brandon Couden: The Real Business Behind a Great Gym

Steve Seger — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 09:30:00 GMT

Kate and Brandon Couden are the husband-and-wife team behind CrossFit Grandview in Columbus, Ohio. Brandon started the gym in 2009 after taking over the old Rogue Fitness gym with almost no resources, a small private loan, and only 14 members. Kate brought 13 years of experience at Lifetime Fitness, where she built a foundation in personal training, nutrition, and understanding what strong fitness culture can look like.

In this conversation, we talk about building a gym from the ground up, growing from survival mode into a real business, and creating a community that can evolve with people through different seasons of life. We also get into the economics of gym ownership, payroll and equipment costs, buying a building, working together as a couple, making decisions when you disagree, and avoiding burnout in a people-based business.

Subscribe for more conversations like this.

Join the newsletter: https://substack.com/@steveseger
Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Steve_Seger2
Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pieces-of-impact/id1851467002
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2IGYfTSYNvsD96UjUqqCJt?si=f5abdaf2294c4a35
Connect with Steve on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/steveseger
CrossFit Grandview: https://crossfitgrandview.com/
CrossFit Grandview Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossfitgrandview/

00:00 Building Something That Compounds
02:08 Kate’s Path From Lifetime Fitness to CrossFit Grandview
03:17 Brandon’s Path
05:58 Starting With Almost Nothing and 14 Members
08:38 Early Traction and Getting People Into It
09:55 Moving to Grandview and Building a Bigger Vision
11:48 Nutrition, Childcare, and Keeping Members in the Community
13:41 Barbell, Power Hour, HYROX, and Training for Longevity
18:00 Day-to-Day Ownership and Avoiding Burnout
23:08 Working Together as a Couple
28:34 The Economics of Running a Gym That Lasts
36:23 What They Would Do Differently

#36: Dr. Paul Sereno - The Real-Life Indiana Jones and the Age of Discovery

Steve Seger — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 09:45:00 GMT

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Paul Sereno, a paleontologist, professor, explorer, artist, author, teacher, and one of the closest things you will find to a real-life Indiana Jones.

Dr. Sereno has led expeditions across the world, from the Sahara to South America and now toward the Amazon. We get into AI, de-extinction, lost fossils, the asteroid that changed Earth’s history, whether humans would exist if that asteroid had missed, his course on intelligence in the universe, and why he believes the world is still a playground for the next generation.

Subscribe for more conversations like this on Pieces of Impact.

Join the newsletter: https://substack.com/@steveseger
Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@steve_seger2?si=2E2mUXAfOLL9ztyQ
Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2IGYfTS...
Connect with Steve on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/steveseger

Guest Links

Paul Sereno Website: https://paulsereno.uchicago.edu/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulserenoofficial/?hl=en

Chapter Markers

00:00 Intro and why I wanted to have Dr. Paul Sereno on
02:02 Dr. Sereno joins the show
06:44 Dr. Safety, black bones, and leading expeditions
11:21 The real-life Indiana Jones comparison
16:15 Why discovery is far from over
24:00 AI, de-extinction, and what people misunderstand
31:59 The Amazon expedition and the next big discovery
37:10 Teaching, science, and the evolution of intelligence
49:19 Lost fossils, repatriation, and preserving history
54:25 Would humans exist if the asteroid missed?
57:49 Naming discoveries, future expeditions, and final wisdom
1:06:54 Where to find Dr. Sereno

#35: Aaron Foss - How to Turn Everyday Problems Into Businesses That Scale

Steve Seger — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 09:15:00 GMT

Aaron Foss is a serial entrepreneur who has built five companies, including Nomorobo, the service that has stopped billions of unwanted robocalls and spam texts. Nomorobo was acquired by Applause Group in August 2023. Before that, Aaron participated in Techstars NYC with SideTour, which Groupon acquired in 2013. He has testified before Congress three times and has been featured by outlets including The New York Times, Wired, CNN, CNBC, and Fox News.

In this conversation, Aaron explains how to identify problems worth solving, distinguish progress from real traction, and know when to narrow your focus from a wide flashlight into a laser. We also discuss why entrepreneurs should fall in love with the problem instead of chasing trends, how constraints can improve creativity, what he looks for in founders, and why his work with Defy Ventures has become such an important part of his life. Aaron also shares lessons from building and selling companies, along with the books and negotiation tools that helped him along the way.

Subscribe for more conversations like this on Pieces of Impact.

Join the newsletter:
https://substack.com/@steveseger

Watch on YouTube:
https://youtube.com/@Steve_Seger2

Listen on Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pieces-of-impact/id1851467002

Listen on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/show/2IGYfTSYNvsD96UjUqqCJt?si=f5abdaf2294c4a35

Connect with Steve on LinkedIn:
http://www.linkedin.com/in/steveseger

Connect with Aaron and explore his work:
https://go.aaronfoss.com/linktree

Learn more about Defy Ventures:
https://www.defyventures.org/

Never Split the Difference Negotiation Cheat Sheet:
https://medium.com/yanda/negotiation-cheat-sheet-31c73031956a

00:00 From Tech Kid to Serial Problem Solver
03:41 The Wing Dipper and Learning Through Real Feedback
07:48 Techstars, Focus, and the Road to Nomorobo
14:53 Retiring at 45 to Coach Entrepreneurs
16:19 Start With the Problem, Then Narrow the Beam
21:23 Constraints, Forcing Functions, and Learning by Doing
29:24 Fall in Love With the Problem, Not Your Passion
35:19 Every Interview Is a Pitch, and Experience Beats a Resume
41:30 Defy Ventures and Entrepreneurship After Incarceration
48:18 Progress vs. Traction: The Proof Investors Need
54:43 Mistakes, Book Recommendations, and Founder Green/Flags
01:05:27 Final Wisdom: Keep It Simple

#34: A Sith Lord, a $90K Dog, a Redfish, and a Duck Stamp

Steve Seger — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 09:00:00 GMT

In this solo episode of Pieces of Impact, I walk through four unrelated rabbit holes I went down recently: Darth Bane and the Rule of Two in Star Wars, trained protection dogs that can cost around $90,000 or more, a quick oral report on redfish, and the federal duck stamp. The goal here is simple: learn a little, have some fun, and share a few topics I found interesting enough to dig into.

Subscribe for more solo episodes and long-form conversations on Pieces of Impact.

00:00 Introduction to the Solo Episode

01:54 Darth Bane and the Rule of Two

07:03 The World of Trained Protection Dogs

10:23 Exploring Redfish: A Deep Dive

15:13 The Federal Duck Stamp: Conservation in Action

#33: Carter Huff: The Story Behind Bogey’s Barn

Steve Seger — Fri, 19 Jun 2026 09:00:00 GMT

In this episode, I sit down with Carter Huff, an Army veteran and the man behind Bogey’s Barn. Carter invited me up to his place to record this conversation inside the pole barn he is turning into a home gym, training space, and brand named after his basset hound, Bogey.

Bogey of course was a big contributor to this candid discussion. Check out the video version to see him.

Subscribe for more conversations like this on Pieces of Impact.

Join the newsletter: https://substack.com/@steveseger
Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Steve_Seger2
Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pieces-of-impact/id1851467002
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2IGYfTSYNvsD96UjUqqCJt?si=f5abdaf2294c4a35
Connect with Steve on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/steveseger

Guest Links

Bogey’s Barn Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bogeys_barn/
Bogey’s Barn TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bogeys.barn
Bogey’s Barn Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568794403157#

Chapter Markers

00:00 Intro and why I drove up to Bogey’s Barn
02:03 Carter joins the show inside the barn
02:39 Carter’s background, military path, and return to Ohio
03:36 Bogey, basset hounds, and the story behind the name
04:43 Buying the property and building the barn piece by piece
08:41 Finding the farmhouse and why people connect with the space
14:26 Posting every day and growing Bogey’s Barn authentically
22:08 Marathon prep, hybrid training, and removing excuses
32:00 Bogey’s role, diet, basset hounds, and life at the barn
41:55 Carter’s long-term vision, rapid fire, and final wisdom

#32: Scott Trench: Financial Independence, BiggerPockets, and Building Leverage

Steve Seger — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 09:15:00 GMT

In this episode, I sit down with Scott Trench, former CEO of BiggerPockets and host of the BiggerPockets Money podcast, to talk about financial independence, career leverage, house hacking, and the path that took him from early employee to leading one of the biggest real estate education platforms.

We get into why financial runway creates better career options, how Scott made himself valuable early at BiggerPockets, what it looked like when the company sold, how he thinks about personal brand and AI, and why financial freedom is about more than just real estate. We also talk about family, kids, wealth, strategy, and the advice he hopes listeners remember.

Subscribe for more conversations like this on Pieces of Impact.

Join the newsletter: https://substack.com/@steveseger
Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Steve_Seger2?si=NcXPNK00GHANUmpR
Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pieces-of-impact/id1851467002
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2IGYfTSYNvsD96UjUqqCJt?si=fa8d2e2a653f491b
Connect with Steve on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/steveseger

Guest Links:

Scott's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-trench-53056a22/

BP Money Podcast: https://youtube.com/@biggerpocketsmoney?si=P1_KewEzj67-oYuV

Chapter markers

00:00 Intro and why Scott’s work matters to Steve
03:33 Scott joins the show
04:00 Life after stepping down as CEO
05:28 Balance, obsession, and CEO stress
07:14 Finding BiggerPockets through financial independence
07:46 Mr. Money Mustache, house hacking, and early FI thinking
10:16 Building financial runway after college
11:39 Making yourself valuable as an early employee
14:10 Choosing equity and upside
16:34 What a company sale looks like from the inside
19:31 Learning from Josh Dorkin and a professional CEO
20:50 Set for Life and what still applies today
22:16 BiggerPockets Money and the next FI problems
25:45 Personal brand as a long-term asset
27:38 AI, original thought, and better financial planning
32:27 Why AI rewards people who understand the full problem
35:02 Wealth, kids, and not imposing your system
38:50 The financial independence car pick
39:05 Common early-career money mistake
39:21 Underrated career skills
39:37 Content formats he is bullish on
40:19 Book recommendations
40:59 House hack, index funds, or business equity
41:17 AI use cases he is excited about
42:08 A day with no responsibilities
42:33 Current workout split
42:56 Final wisdom: what strategy really means
44:02 Where to find Scott

#31: Joe Simonds - Why Niches Still Win in the AI Age

Steve Seger — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 09:00:00 GMT

Joe Simonds is an author and co-founder of Salt Strong, a fishing education, content, membership, tackle, and community business he started with his brother Luke after leaving financial services. In this episode, we talk about walking away from a successful but unfulfilling career, building Salt Strong from scratch, working with family, growing through content and community, and what changed after the company’s recent sale.

We also get into AI, why “riches are made in niches,” protecting community standards, the fishing theme park idea, and why writing down your mission, vision, and core beliefs can change how you build.

Subscribe for more conversations like this on Pieces of Impact.

Join the newsletter: https://substack.com/@steveseger
Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@steve_seger2?si=NcXPNK00GHANUmpR
Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pieces-of-impact/id1851467002
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2IGYfTSYNvsD96UjUqqCJt?si=fa8d2e2a653f491b
Connect with Steve on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/steveseger

Guest links:

Website: SaltStrong.com,

Joe’s book link: https://www.amazon.com/Fishing-Happiness-Ultimate-Achieving-Fulfillment/dp/0692733051

Salt Strong YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Saltstrong

Salt Strong Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesaltstrong/

00:00 Why I Wanted to Have Joe On
02:19 Leaving Financial Services for Something More Fulfilling
09:06 The First Sale That Made Salt Strong Possible
10:25 Seven Months Before Taking a Day Off
11:36 What Works and Doesn’t When Building With Family
14:45 Free Content, Memberships, and the First Signs of Momentum
18:31 Community First, App Second
24:10 Core Beliefs, No Cursing, and Protecting the Culture
25:54 Riches Are Made in Niches, Even in the AI Age
31:06 Selling Salt Strong Without Losing the Mission
37:59 The Funniest Part of Selling the Company
41:27 The Fishing Theme Park Vision
51:00 The Grandfather Story and Creating Memories That Matter
55:58 Final Wisdom: Write Down the Mission

#30: Carter Dorsch - Growing a Brokerage, Building Trust, and Selling the Forgotten Coast

Steve Seger — Fri, 29 May 2026 09:15:00 GMT

In this episode, I sit down with Carter Dorsch, Co-Owner at 98 Real Estate Group, to talk about real estate on Florida’s Forgotten Coast. We get into Mexico Beach, Port St. Joe, Cape San Blas, Hurricane Michael, what makes the area so unique, and how Carter went from sitting in empty open houses with a chair and flyers to helping build one of the top real estate brands in the market.

We also talk about branding, newsletters, handwritten letters, AI listing descriptions that sound like a robot had too much coffee, Ed Ball, the St. Joe Company, college football, local food spots, and why “don’t half-ass it” is solid life advice. Carter is sharp, honest, and easy to talk to, and this was a really fun one for anyone interested in real estate, marketing, or coastal towns.

Subscribe for more conversations like this on Pieces of Impact.

Chapters:

00:00 Intro
02:24 Carter Dorsch Joins the Show
02:54 Running 98 Real Estate Group
03:43 Florida’s Forgotten Coast
04:45 COVID and Coastal Demand
06:09 Hurricane Michael and Mexico Beach
08:30 Building Codes and Stronger Homes
12:15 Rebuilding After the Storm
14:36 Getting Started at 98
17:31 Early Pressure and Eating What You Kill
21:43 Buying Into the Business
23:34 Lessons From Ownership
25:03 Branding and Visibility
26:52 Newsletters and Referrals
28:40 AI in Real Estate
31:34 Smarter Direct Mail
34:51 Fastest-Growing Coastal Markets
37:27 Recruiting Agents and Protecting the Brand
40:59 Ed Ball, DuPont, and George Washington
43:25 The St. Joe Company
53:17 The Future of the Forgotten Coast
59:45 Carter’s Long-Term Vision
1:02:34 College Football
1:05:52 Rapid Fire
1:10:29 Handwritten Letters Still Work
1:14:08 Famous Clients
1:15:32 Don’t Half-Ass It
1:17:35 The Myrtle Beach Closing Story
1:19:53 Where to Find Carter

#29: Joe Cermele on Fishing Media, Audience Trust, and Staying Original

Steve Seger — Fri, 22 May 2026 09:30:00 GMT

In this episode, I sit down with Joe Cermele to talk about his career in fishing media, from Field & Stream and Outdoor Life to MeatEater and now building Cut & Retie as an independent show. We get into writing, storytelling, creative freedom, audience trust, sponsors, and what it actually looks like to build a media business around your own voice.

Joe shares what he learned from nearly 20 years inside outdoor media, why personality-driven content has changed the industry, how hard it is to start from zero today, and why being independent gives you freedom but rarely gives you safety. We also get into AI, old fishing stories, why he hates dolphins, and why looking for Bigfoot is a respectable career path.

Check us out on Podmonitor: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1G1q77ZGcc4iwO87rj0tC88WJQh7YaiMB/view?usp=sharing

Join the Pieces of Impact community and subscribe for more conversations like this.

00:01 Intro and why Joe appreciated a conversation outside the fishing world
00:55 Joe’s current life as an independent media creator
02:16 Creative work vs. building a business
04:36 How 20 years in media shaped his current path
07:40 Creating your own luck in outdoor media
11:51 Early adoption, blogs, video, and Hook Shots
17:34 Field & Stream archives and what old fishing media can teach us
19:07 Amazon trip, media trips, and international fishing logistics
22:36 Moving to MeatEater and learning the business side of media
25:42 Joining MeatEater right before COVID
27:39 Why hunting content can be more lucrative than fishing content
29:52 Why he started Cut & Retie
34:21 Building community and the platform he wishes he owned
38:14 Family, privacy, and being personal without filming everything
41:33 What Joe’s community actually looks like
44:38 Authenticity, over-sharing, and not forcing a persona
47:32 Why starting from zero today would be so difficult
49:59 Independent podcast economics and sponsor volatility
52:43 Protecting audience trust with brand partnerships
54:55 Where fishing media is heading
58:10 AI, search, and the future of outdoor writing
01:03:15 The ghost striper story
01:07:56 Finding Bigfoot, River Monsters, and burnout in dream jobs
01:09:51 Rapid fire round
01:10:25 Writer recommendation: Riverhorse Nakadate
01:11:46 Best place Joe has ever fished
01:12:42 How playing in bands helped his media career
01:14:47 Why Joe hates dolphins
01:16:39 Final wisdom: originality over competition
01:17:57 Where to find Joe and Cut & Retie

#28: Zak Herbstreit: Media, NIL, and What Makes College Football Special

Steve Seger — Fri, 15 May 2026 09:30:00 GMT

In this episode, I sit down with Zak Herbstreit, former Ohio State player and now host of Off Script at On3, to talk about his transition from football into sports media, why On3 felt like the right fit, and what he is learning as he builds his voice in the college football world.

We get into how he approaches content, what it is like being behind the scenes at major games, why staying unbiased matters in this job, and his honest take on NIL, the transfer portal, and whether the sport can keep what makes it special.

Subscribe for more conversations like this on Pieces of Impact.

00:02 Intro and Zak’s background
01:32 Why On3 felt like the right fit
02:26 Why he moved away from coaching
12:44 Relationships and access in sports media
13:51 Getting reps and growing the platform
18:15 How he plans and films game-day content
21:15 Ohio State-Michigan tunnel story
22:43 Staying unbiased in media
27:52 NIL, transfer portal, and commitment
49:30 Five-year vision
50:47 Rapid fire round
57:15 Final wisdom and where to find Zak

#27: World Record Bucks, The Masters, Florida Land, and Pyramid Theories

Steve Seger — Fri, 08 May 2026 09:45:00 GMT

In this solo episode, I walk through four rabbit holes I went down this week: the Mitch Rompola world-record buck controversy, the behind-the-scenes world of the Masters from my own time there, the St. Joe Company and the Northwest Florida land empire built by a descendant of George Washington, and the theory that the Great Pyramid may have been built from the inside out.

None of these really connect, and that is kind of the point. They are just four rabbit holes I spent entirely too much time watching YouTube videos on this week. If you like episodes that mix sports, business history, the outdoors, and old-world theories, this one should be a fun listen.

00:00 Intro and the four topics
01:19 Mitch Rompola buck controversy
05:11 The Masters and Augusta’s behind-the-scenes rules
11:01 The St. Joe Company and the Green Empire
15:21 The Great Pyramid inside-out theory
19:21 Recap and outro

#25: Mike Truitt - What It Really Takes to Buy, Grow, and Sell a Business

Steve Seger — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 09:00:00 GMT

In this episode, I sit down with Mike Truitt to talk about his path from inside sales to business ownership, what it looked like to buy Disney McLane with his business partner, Craig, in 2007, and how they grew and eventually sold the company.

We also get into what the business actually does, how they expanded across multiple states, and what it means to lead a company through a recession.

Mike shares lessons on choosing the right business partner, retaining employees, reinvesting in people, and planning an exit years before you take it. We also talk about the discipline he took from his military family, what real pressure looks like, and the advice from his dad that still guides him today: sharpen your pencil.

Subscribe for more conversations like this on Pieces of Impact.

00:01 Intro and why Mike’s story matters
01:42 Early jobs and how he got into Disney McLane
03:41 Buying the business in 2007 and selling in 2020
04:34 What Disney McLane actually does
08:12 Taking over right before the 2008 recession
10:55 Growing territory, lines, and offices
13:47 Choosing the right business partner
17:09 Retention, rewards, and taking care of employees
23:06 What he would and wouldn’t do differently
24:35 Exit strategy and grooming the next owners
29:22 Reinvesting in the business and standing out
33:00 Investing, side ventures, and the gas station
37:23 Military background and lessons on discipline
40:47 What real pressure looks like
44:45 Family history and tracing the Truitt tree
51:12 Rapid fire round
56:05 Final wisdom

#26: AI Star Wars, Blue Zones, a Farm Business Idea, and a Powerful Parable

Steve Seger — Fri, 01 May 2026 09:15:00 GMT

In this solo episode, I walk through four topics I’ve been thinking about lately: AI-generated Star Wars videos on YouTube, the Blue Zones documentary on longevity, a farm and community business model that really caught my attention, and an old parable about aging parents.

I get into where AI fan content might be heading, what the Blue Zones get right about health, why Sweet Honey Farm feels like such a smart product, and the reminder to stay humble and grateful for the people who dropped branches on the trail before us.

00:00 Intro and the four topics
01:56 AI Star Wars on YouTube and how fast it’s improving
06:12 Blue Zones and why environment matters more than biohacks
09:19 Sweet Honey Farm and the business of selling an environment
11:16 Why people would actually pay for a place like this
14:02 The aged mother parable
16:02 The branches someone else dropped before you
17:12 Recap and closing takeaways

Subscribe if you enjoy solo episodes like this alongside the longer conversations on Pieces of Impact. If you want 2-3 minute recaps of my episodes in a weekly email, subscribe to my Substack: https://substack.com/@steveseger?utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page

#24: Justin Inacio on What Pro Lacrosse Actually Looks Like Behind the Scenes

Steve Seger — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 09:00:00 GMT

In this episode, I sit down with Justin Inacio, a Team Canada silver medalist, 3x All American at Ohio State, and current professional lacrosse player, to talk about the growth of lacrosse, what life actually looks like in the pro game, and the path that took him from Canada to Columbus.

Justin opens up about nearly quitting on a full ride, turning down the med school path to bet on lacrosse, building camps and training businesses around the sport, and the lesson he keeps giving young athletes: everyone practices, but the extra work after practice is what separates people.

Subscribe for more conversations like this on Pieces of Impact.

00:01 Intro and why this conversation matters
01:13 The state of lacrosse, the pro leagues, and the 2028 Olympics
06:30 Growing up in Canada and playing multiple sports
08:19 The recruiting process, Harvard, and choosing Ohio State
14:15 Freshman struggles and nearly quitting on a full ride
20:18 Draft process, med school, and deciding to go pro
25:49 How pro lacrosse actually works, travel, jobs, and league economics
31:22 Building a life around lacrosse through camps, coaching, and training
49:07 Westside Barbell and how he trains
55:46 Five to ten year vision and the dream of pro teams in Columbus
58:47 Coaching kids and realizing words can change lives
01:01:25 Wrap up round
01:07:14 Final wisdom and closing thoughts

Follow Justin on Social:

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@justininacio30?si=eJO-n0jIRybnDHlv

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justininacio/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justininacio30

Check out his business here:

https://ovrpwrsports.com/

#23: Parkinson’s Law, Public Sinks, Football Black Belts, and Darth Vader

Steve Seger — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 09:00:00 GMT

This is a solo episode where I walk through four topics I’ve been digging into lately: Parkinson’s Law, why sinks are placed outside bathrooms, a black belt coaching Ohio State’s defensive line, and whether an R-rated Darth Vader movie could actually work.

No big theme here. Just four ideas I found interesting, useful, or fun to discuss. If you like picking up a few different insights in one sitting, this one’s for you.

Chapters

00:00 Intro to Four Topics (Click this to Decide if this is worth your time)

01:20 Understanding Parkinson's Law

06:39 The Psychology of Public Sinks

09:20 Innovative Coaching: Joe Kim's Journey

12:12 The Dark Side of Darth Vader

#22: Willie Austing: Country Music, Family, College Football, and the Work That Feels Like Play

Steve Seger — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 09:00:00 GMT

In this episode, I sit down with independent country artist Willie Austing to talk about his path into music, his new EP Outgrown, and what it actually takes to build a craft over time. We get into songwriting, recording, early live shows, and the reality of developing skills across multiple areas at once.

Willie shares the behind-the-scenes side of the process, including burnout, self-teaching instruments, and what it feels like to get completely locked into your work for hours at a time. We also talk about balancing a full-time job, relationships, and creative work, and what separates people who stick with it from those who don’t.

00:18 Intro to Willie Austing
01:31 Willie's background, sports, and how music started
02:27 New EP Outgrown, burnout, and why sometimes less is more
06:37 Songwriting process, melody vs. words, and the story behind “Two Birds”
10:24 Why smooth wording matters, plus the Game of Thrones coffee cup analogy
13:00 Learning guitar, sound, recording, and becoming self-sufficient
21:16 First open mics, first paid gig, and learning live performance
30:54 Wedding performances, nerves, and opening for Rodney Atkins
37:07 Worst gig story and what rough reps teach you
42:30 Musical influences and what shaped his sound
45:29 Social media, posting music, and trying to reach new people
49:18 Balancing a full-time job, relationships, health, and music
57:14 The long-term dream, AI, and protecting the human side of art
01:02:15 College football, Texas fandom, and fall Saturdays
01:14:31 Rapid fire round
01:22:54 Final wisdom and where to find Willie

Find Willie Austing Here:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willie_austing/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@willie_music_
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5wpW51yR2aENy8QINandGP?si=RsKNYIBKSrCb6PZDK7OXuA
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/willie-austing/1739712915

#21: Michael Alberse: Living in a Van at Google, Cash Flow Investing, and Alternative Assets

Steve Seger — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 09:00:00 GMT

Michael Alberse joins Pieces of Impact to talk about his path from building out a cargo van in college to living in it while working at Google, all while stacking capital and learning how to invest with more intention. We get into how that season shaped his habits, why he focuses on cash-flowing and alternative investments today, and how he’s building a brand around teaching personal finance in a more practical, honest way.

We also talk through the difference between chasing flashy deals and building a real financial foundation, the role of CPAs and good operators, his best and worst investments so far, and why he believes money should be used as a tool rather than something to worship. This was a thoughtful conversation on risk, freedom, and building a life that actually fits.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Michael Alberse

02:37 From Van Life to Financial Freedom

06:35 The Journey of Cash Flow Goals

10:59 Building a Social Media Presence

17:32 Micro Investing as a Business

23:05 Creating Value Through Education

27:53 The Importance of Humility and Feedback

28:14 The Value of Hiring a CPA

29:04 Understanding Taxes and Income Types

31:44 Starting a Business: Lessons Learned

34:34 Organizing Investments for Growth

36:47 Aligning Financial Goals in Relationships

39:34 Best and Worst Investment Deals

44:17 Lessons from Investment Failures

45:56 Balancing Cash Flow and Equity Growth

47:55 Future Goals and Vision

49:52 The Role of Money in Life

52:06 Rapid Fire Questions

#20: Steele Chambers - From Ohio State to the NFL and UFL + Building a Media Career

Steve Seger — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 08:30:00 GMT

Steele Chambers joins Pieces of Impact to talk about his path from growing up in Georgia to Ohio State, his stops in the NFL, and what life looks like in the UFL. We get into a typical day in camp and how he’s started building a voice in media through his Tape Talk breakdowns and the Bobby Carpenter show.

We also cover the position change that reshaped his career, the cookie jar mindset that helped him through fall camp, and his take on NIL and the transfer portal. Subscribe for more conversations focusing on business, fitness, sports, and the outdoors.

00:00 Intro + Steele’s background
01:32 A day in UFL camp
02:34 Tape Talk, group chat prep, and the Bobby Carpenter show
07:11 NFL vs UFL differences
08:26 Choosing Ohio State
11:00 First workouts and adjusting to the level of speed
15:56 Cookie jar, calluses, and mat drills
16:40 Switching from running back to linebacker
30:22 NIL + transfer portal thoughts
38:09 Handling the grind early in college
41:11 NFL camp pressure
47:18 Media path and Big Ten Network boot camp
52:30 Rapid fire
58:01 Wrap up wisdom
59:11 Where to find Steele

#19: Spoon Lures, Harry Potter HBO, Red Rising, and Standing Out in the AI Age

Steve Seger — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 09:00:00 GMT

In this solo episode, I hit four topics I’ve been thinking about lately: the surprisingly interesting history of the spoon fishing lure, the new Harry Potter HBO series, why I’m all-in on the Red Rising books, and how I’m trying to stand out with authentic outreach in an AI-heavy world.

Pieces of Impact is where I document conversations (and occasional solo episodes) about business, fitness, sports, and the outdoors, among other things. If you enjoy this one, share it with a friend and subscribe.

00:00 Intro

01:24 Exploring Spoon Fishing Lures

05:38 The New Harry Potter HBO Series

08:41 Diving into Red Rising

11:33 Standing Out in an AI-Driven World

18:04 Conclusion

#18: Jakob James on College Football, the Transfer Portal, and Life After Football

Steve Seger — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Jakob James joins Pieces of Impact to talk about his journey from Cincinnati to Ohio State and Toledo, and what big-time college football really teaches you about discipline, adversity, and long-term growth. We go behind the scenes on game week preparation, locker room dynamics, NIL, the transfer portal, and what it takes to earn trust inside a top program.

We also discuss life after football, how to handle setbacks, and why Jakob believes instant gratification is the biggest trap. If you’re building something in your own life, this episode is a reminder that real progress comes from doing the small things right, over and over again.

00:00 Introduction and Background of Jakob James

02:47 Transitioning from High School to College Football

05:58 Recruitment Journey to Ohio State

08:42 Adjusting to College Life and Training

11:54 Experiences with Coaches and Training Staff

14:55 Strength and Conditioning at Ohio State

18:00 Navigating Coaching Changes and Team Dynamics

20:57 The Impact of NIL and Transfer Portal on College Football

24:06 Game Week Structure and Expectations

26:45 Conclusion and Future Outlook

33:09 Weekly Practice Breakdown

39:03 Game Day Rituals

45:35 Navigating the Transfer Portal

52:02 The Future of College Football

01:03:15 Adversity and Development in Sports

01:10:51 Roster Restructuring in College Football

01:15:58 The Importance of Off-Field Environment

01:17:02 Transitioning from Ohio State to Toledo

01:21:20 The Coaching Path and Its Challenges

01:23:59 Lessons from Adversity

01:25:30 Exploring Future Career Paths

01:27:24 Rapid Fire Round: Toughest Opponents

01:30:43 Memorable Game Environments

01:33:13 Proposed Changes to College Football

01:36:09 A Day of Freedom and Reflection

01:37:20 Final Wisdom and Takeaways

#17: Adam Breneman: Turning Football Into Business (Media, Deals, Real Estate)

Steve Seger — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Adam Breneman is a former college football player turned broadcaster and entrepreneur. In this episode, we talk about how he reinvented himself after football, the mentors and moments that shaped his mindset, and why he believes “volume negates luck” when you’re trying to build something real.

We also get into the business behind his content: how he earns trust and access with coaches, how brand partnerships actually work when you have real attention, why he likes equity as the upside play, and why real estate is a foundational long-term strategy. If you enjoy conversations with builders, operators, and people creating momentum, subscribe for more.

00:00 — Intro + what Adam’s building now

01:11 — Career pivots + leaving football identity behind

10:40 — The trait Adam sees in successful people (“will things to happen”)

11:51 — Herm Edwards mentorship + leadership + perspective

19:51 — Big Ten / college football talk (favorite stadiums, underrated programs)

24:22 — Adam’s weekly cadence + offseason tour plan (12 schools in ~15 days)

28:00 — Why he loves real estate + how he got started

31:55 — His wealth stack: cash-flow engine vs equity upside vs real estate preservation

36:09 — Trust, access, and why he won’t trade relationships for “breaking news”

40:13 — Final wisdom: “volume negates luck” + “no one’s thinking about you”

#16: Spencer Wonder:Terra Firma Tackle, Great White Sharks, and Responsible Land-Based Shark Fishing

Steve Seger — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Pieces of Impact podcast, I sit down with Spencer Wonder, founder of Terra Firma Tackle. We talk about Spencer’s path from marine science and teaching to building a tackle company, what it looks like to run a product business with a small team, and why reputation and quality control matter.

We also get into great white sharks, how land-based shark fishing is changing fast, and why social media and drone fishing can create real risk for the future of the sport if the content reaches the wrong audience.

00:00 Introduction to Spencer Wonder

02:58 Spencer's Journey in Fishing and Education

06:03 The Business of Tackle and Gear

08:47 Adventures in Extreme Fishing

12:01 Unique Fish Caught and Future Goals

14:46 Business Aspirations and Future Plans

18:01 Networking and Community in Fishing

20:50 Great White Sharks and Conservation

24:02 The Responsibility of Fishing in the Public Eye

27:02 Misunderstandings in Land-Based Shark Fishing

29:44 A Day in the Life of Spencer Wonder

35:20 Navigating Challenges in Business

39:48 Lessons from Pre-Orders and Customer Service

41:05 The Impact of COVID-19 on Business Growth

43:30 Leveraging Social Media for Success

45:13 The Importance of Language and Culture in Travel

48:48 Adventures in South America and Africa

54:27 The Art of Fishing: Techniques and Experiences

01:00:02 Rapid Fire Insights and Personal Favorites

#15: Dylan Wier and Blaine Kenny: Shark Fishing, Entrepreneurship, and Content Creation

Steve Seger — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Steve sits down with Dylan Wier and Blaine Kenny of Coastal Worldwide to talk about what it really takes to build a fishing business and a media brand that lasts. They share how they met, how the company evolved from an earlier venture, and why they hire for character and attention to detail before fishing experience.

The conversation dives into how they think about social media as a long game, why each platform needs its own strategy, and how staying authentic matters more than chasing views. They also break down the reality of sponsorships and why they only promote products they genuinely trust.

They also get real about the responsibility that comes with land based shark fishing, including ethics, safety rules, education, and why protecting the future of the sport matters. Plus, behind the scenes on what a full beach charter day looks like, and a few rapid fire favorites at the end.

00:00
Introduction to the Guests and Their Backgrounds
02:40
The Formation of Coastal Worldwide
05:24
Hiring Process and Character Evaluation
08:31
Business Strategy and Social Media Focus
11:36
Success and Future Goals
14:43
Social Media Platforms and Content Creation
17:33
Engagement and Audience Connection
20:15
Brand Partnerships and Sponsorships
34:54
Navigating Brand Deals and Sponsorships
50:49
The Future of Shark Fishing and Ethical Practices
01:09:03
The Unique Fishing Experience
01:10:28
Creating Lasting Memories
01:11:51
Delivering Value Beyond the Catch
01:12:48
The Importance of Hiring the Right People
01:17:13
Great White Shark Encounters
01:20:41
Influences in Content Creation
01:23:48
The Emotional Connection with Viewers
01:25:50
Wisdom and Happiness in Sharing Experiences

#14: Erick Dent - Semi-Pro Fly Angler, Professional Photographer, Intentional Vagabond

Steve Seger — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Pieces of Impact, I sit down with Erick Dent, a Charleston based photographer and fly fisherman whose life revolves around the outdoors.

We talk about balancing photography with fly fishing, building a personal brand through consistent work, and the unique challenges of fishing and filming in Charleston. The conversation also dives into fly fishing itself, including mindset, ethics, fly tying, and the philosophy behind catch and release. Along the way, we touch on wildlife encounters, DIY projects, and why time in nature has a way of cutting through the noise.

About Erick:

Erick Dent is a photographer based in Charleston, South Carolina, dedicated to promoting an active outdoor lifestyle. He has been shooting professionally for over 10 years, including several years as a full time photographer for Vineyard Vines, with work ranging from the Kentucky Derby to the Everglades.

Born and raised on the Gulf Coast of Florida, Erick developed a deep connection to the ocean and the natural world, preparing him to work in demanding environments where heat, cold, bugs, and sharks are part of the job. Outside of photography, he’s a semi-pro fly angler, practiced bush mechanic, amateur tailor, intentional vagabond, and animal control expert, to name a few.

00:00 Introduction to Erick Dent and His Journey

05:06 Life in Connecticut and Transition to Charleston

09:49 The Shift in Work Culture and Leaving Vineyard Vines

15:02 Daily Life and Photography in Fishing

20:07 Building Partnerships with Brands

24:45 Fishing Techniques and Experiences in Charleston

27:47 The Nuances of Fishing and Photography

33:09 Wildlife Encounters and Nature's Beauty

37:57 The Challenges of Fishing and Filming

43:01 Final Thoughts on Fishing and Life Lessons

51:46 Navigating the Challenges of Fly Fishing

54:36 The Ethics of Technology in Fishing

58:10 The Art and Science of Fly Tying

01:00:37 Catch and Release: A Fisherman's Philosophy

01:01:36 The Balance of Gear and Technique

01:04:49 Capturing the Moment: Photography on the Water

01:07:53 Exploring Diverse Fishing Species

01:10:37 Planning Fishing Trips: Strategy and Research

01:13:49 The Joy of DIY: Crafting and Tailoring

01:18:58 Understanding Wildlife: Animal Control Insights

01:22:57 Rapid Fire Round: Insights and Reflections

01:33:37 Final Thoughts: The Importance of Nature

#13: If You Only Do 3 Things for Your Health, Do These

Steve Seger — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Want to get your health and wellness in order without overcomplicating it? In this quick solo episode, Steve breaks it down into three simple pillars anyone can follow: diet, movement, and sleep.

Diet: learn your intake by tracking calories
Movement: hit 10,000 steps a day in easy chunks
Sleep: build toward 7.5 to 8.5 hours with simple habits like consistent bedtimes, morning sunlight, and a short walk after dinner

Save this as a simple reset you can come back to anytime.

00:00
Intro: The Only 3 Things You Actually Need for Better Health
01:05
Diet: Gaining Awareness on Food Intake
05:25
Movement: 10,000 steps a Day
07:05
Sleep: Aim for 7.5-8.5 Hours Per Night
12:26
Wrapping Up

#12: Michael Hughes I Every Day is an Audition

Steve Seger — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Pieces of Impact, I sit down with Michael Hughes, an accomplished business leader who has helped take two Silicon Valley companies public by growing revenue, building high performing teams, and leading with energy.

Michael’s career spans Cincinnati, Chicago, Detroit, London, the Bay Area, and now Lake Tahoe, with leadership roles at companies like Barracuda Networks and ChargePoint, where he led revenue operations through NYSE IPOs. Today, he serves as President at 1Password, a global leader in identity and security.

Beyond the resume, this conversation explores the human side of leadership. We talk about hiring for energy and attitude over experience, the role of empathy and relationships in building great teams, and how adaptability has shaped Michael’s career.

We also discuss mentorship, recognizing personal weaknesses, and why every milestone is just another stepping stone rather than the finish line.

We touch on the realities of remote work, especially for younger professionals, the future of hybrid teams, and how emerging technologies like autonomous vehicles may reshape how we live and work.

00:00 Introduction to Michael Hughes

03:09 Michael's Career Journey

06:02 Lessons in Leadership and Self-Awareness

09:02 Hiring for High Performance

11:57 Choosing the Right Company and Boss

15:06 The Importance of Mentorship

18:05 Building Effective Teams

20:55 Connecting Employees to the Mission

23:53 Measuring Success and Activity

27:04 Cultural Sensitivity in Business

30:09 Navigating Corporate Acquisitions

37:25 Navigating Private Equity Acquisitions

42:12 The Venture Capital Landscape

49:32 Lessons from Startup Challenges

57:53 Advice for the Next Generation

01:09:17 The Future of Work: Remote vs. In-Office

01:11:42 The Importance of In-Person Work

01:12:52 The Evolution of Office Spaces

01:14:52 Innovations in Work Environments

01:16:32 The Future of Autonomous Vehicles

01:21:09 The Impact of Autonomous Technology on Society

01:24:53 Rapid Fire Insights and Personal Reflections

#11: Jake Reisig on Why Ownership Matters

Steve Seger — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Pieces of Impact, Steve Seger sits down with entrepreneur Jake Reisig. Jake is a Partner at Bluegrass Wealth Ventures and co-owner of Jeannie’s Cleaning, with experience spanning investment sales, real estate operations, and business ownership. Previously, he advised property owners and investors at Capstone Companies. He’s also the founder of RateMyCollegeLandlord.com and studied Finance at Xavier University.

00:00
Introduction to Jake
03:11
Jake's Upbringing and Early Influences
06:10
The Role of Sports in Jake's Life
08:56
Transition to College and Entrepreneurial Spirit
11:55
College Experience and Business Ventures
18:01
Advice for College Students and Finding Opportunities
20:49
Networking and Building Relationships
23:57
The Importance of Passion in Business
27:11
Long-Term Investment Strategies
33:00
Current Business Ventures and Real Estate Focus
39:01
Understanding the Power of Ownership
43:01
Investment Strategies and Raising Capital
46:13
Acquisition of a Cleaning Company
49:56
The Role of an Operator in Business
54:48
Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights
59:47
Final Thoughts and Wisdom on Ownership

#10: Bret Halsey | Professional Soccer Player Turned Real Estate Investor

Steve Seger — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Pieces of Impact, Steve Seger sits down with Bret Halsey, a former professional soccer player turned real estate investor, to discuss his transition from athletics to business. Bret reflects on competing at the highest level, including guarding Lionel Messi, navigating major health setbacks, and applying the same discipline and resilience to building a multifamily real estate portfolio. The conversation explores risk management, networking, intentional growth, and the parallels between elite sports performance and long term success in real estate.

00:00 From Soccer Dreams to Real Estate Ventures

03:05 Navigating the College Soccer Landscape

06:01 The Transition to Professional Soccer

09:00 Facing Adversity: Health Challenges in Pro Sports 12:11 The Shift to Real Estate Investing

14:58 Building a Real Estate Portfolio

17:57 The Journey with FC Cincinnati

20:54 The Impact of Networking in Sports and Business 23:50 Playing Against Legends: The Messi Experience

27:05 The Decision to Go Full-Time in Real Estate

29:47 Refining Strategies in Real Estate Investing

32:56 The Evolution of a Real Estate Entrepreneur

35:46 Looking Ahead: Future Goals and Aspirations

44:59 Scaling for Success in Real Estate

48:13 Understanding Risk and Leverage

51:18 Prospecting for Deals: The Cold Calling Advantage 54:03 Evolving Business Models: From Small to Large Properties

58:17 Learning from Challenges: Contractor Experiences 01:05:40 Starting Over: Building a Real Estate Business 01:08:36 Defining Key Real Estate Terms

01:14:40 Long-Term Vision: Goals and Growth in Real Estate 01:18:52 Rapid Fire Insights: Personal Reflections and Wisdom

#9: Tom Rowland on Fishing, Family, Fitness, and Entrepreneurship

Steve Seger — Fri, 02 Jan 2026 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Pieces of Impact, I sit down with Tom Rowland for a wide ranging conversation about building a life with intention. Tom shares how his path took him from Tennessee to becoming a fishing guide in Key West, and eventually into television, podcasting, and media.

We also dive into how media is changing. Tom shares his perspective on YouTube, streaming, sponsorships, and where fishing content is headed next. We explore emerging technology, from wearable devices and smart glasses to how AI is reshaping content creation and work itself. The conversation touches on fitness, presence, and learning to enjoy the process rather than rushing toward outcomes.

00:00 Introduction to Tom Rowland's Journey

02:45 From Wrestling to Guiding: The Early Years

05:59 The Transition to Key West and Guiding Career

08:53 Building a Television Career in Fishing

12:05 Navigating Success and Fear of Success

15:05 Finding the Right Friends and Support

18:07 The Evolution of Podcasting and Media

20:58 Helping Others Achieve Their Goals

23:54 Overcoming Challenges and Defining Success

37:30 The Competitive Landscape of Redfish Tournaments 39:02 Understanding Sponsorships in Fishing

42:12 Building an Audience for Sponsorship Success

45:02 Transitioning from Tournaments to Television

46:30 The Importance of Being a Good Ambassador

50:01 Navigating Sponsorship Challenges

52:30 The Impact of Audience Growth on Personal Life 52:58 The Evolution of Media in Fishing

56:27 The Future of Content Creation and Technology 01:01:45 The Role of AI in the Fishing Industry

01:13:44 The Future of Work: Embracing Manual Labor 01:15:30 Fitness Journey: From Wrestling to CrossFit 01:27:39 The Evolution of Training: CrossFit and Beyond 01:34:25 Finding Happiness in the Journey

01:42:25 Wisdom and Influence: The Value of Your Audience

#8: Mike Schroer: Lessons in Pivoting, Purpose, and Perseverance

Steve Seger — Fri, 26 Dec 2025 10:00:00 GMT

Mike Schroer joins host Steve Seger on the Pieces of Impact podcast to share his journey from college football to medical device sales and the lessons learned along the way. They dive into career pivots, relationships, work-life balance, and the power of resilience. Mike opens up about finding purpose, leaning on family, and navigating transitions with intentionality and grit.

00:00 Introduction to Mike Schroer

03:07 Mike's Upbringing and Family Background

06:04 College Football Journey at University of Indianapolis 11:55 Transition to Ohio State and Pursuing Football Dreams 14:31 Lessons Learned from Football Experience

15:55 Career Transition and Finding Passion

20:58 Job Search Challenges and Advice

27:12 Starting at Medtronic and Early Experiences

29:51 Role in Neurosurgery and Device Navigation

32:20 Navigating Medical Device Procedures

34:00 Gaining Confidence in the Role

38:57 Transitioning to Cardiac Care

42:54 Lessons from the Grind

50:04 The Importance of Family

54:57 Finding the Right Partner

01:02:09 Maintaining Relationships During Career Challenges

01:04:44 The Importance of Connection and Growth in Relationships

01:07:00 Future Aspirations and Family Life

01:09:31 Hobbies and Personal Interests

01:11:14 Book Recommendations for Personal Development 01:14:34 Rapid Fire Question Round

01:26:08 Wisdom on Adaptability and Growth

#7: My 5 Favorite Lifts, a Life Equation, Grip Strength’s Power, and Sauna Timing for Sleep

Steve Seger — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Pieces of Impact podcast, Steve Seger discusses four impactful topics: his top five strength exercises, a formula for a happy life, the importance of grip strength, and how sauna sessions can improve sleep. Each segment provides insights into fitness, wellness, and personal development, emphasizing the significance of consistency and enjoyment in achieving health goals.

00:00 Introduction to Impactful Topics

00:59 My Top Five Strength Exercises

07:25 The Equation for a Happy Life

09:30 The Importance of Grip Strength

14:04 Using Sauna for Better Sleep

#1: What is this?

Steve Seger — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In the inaugural episode of the Pieces of Impact podcast, host Steve Seger shares his vision of exploring curiosity and wisdom through conversations with individuals who have valuable life experiences. He discusses the importance of education, the role of the subconscious mind, and the balance between independence and purpose in achieving a fulfilling life. Seger emphasizes the need for authenticity and living in the present moment, encouraging listeners to focus on what truly matters in their lives.

00:00
Introduction to the show and Steve's Vision

05:29
Reimagining Education for the Future

13:28
The Power of Self-Perception

15:15
Independence and Purpose: Keys to a Good Life

16:48
Living Authentically in the Present Moment

#5: Creativity on Command, AI’s Workweek Revolution, $100 Skin-in-the-Game, and YouTube’s Future

Steve Seger — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Pieces of Impact podcast, Steve explores four ideas that can genuinely help you get better: a surprising method to trigger creativity on command, the coming AI-driven shift in how many days we work, the power of a $100 accountability bet, and major insights from YouTube’s CEO on winning in the creator economy.

00:00
Intro

00:58
A Tip for Unlocking Creative Solutions

03:49
The Future of Work: How AI Might Shorten the Workweek

13:39
Accountability Trick with a $100 Bill

15:32
Insights from YouTube's CEO on the Creator Economy

#3: The Highest ROI: Invest in Yourself, Trust Your Gut, Learn from Brad Jacobs & Live Longer

Steve Seger — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Pieces of Impact podcast, Steve Seger discusses four key ideas centered around personal growth and health. He emphasizes the importance of investing in oneself, sharing a personal story about a stranger that taught him to trust his gut instinct, insights from a Twitter thread on entrepreneurship, and the impact of lifestyle changes on longevity. Each segment offers valuable lessons on how to enhance one's life through mindful choices and perspectives.

00:00
Intro

01:29
Invest in Yourself: The Highest ROI You’ll Ever Find

05:02
Life Advice from a Stranger: Trust Your Gut

07:55
Lessons from Brad Jacobs: Problems, People, and Perspective

14:41
How small, consistent lifestyle changes can dramatically extend lifespan and improve health outcomes.

#6: Why Walking Matters, The Truth About Diamonds, Living for Memories, and Six Pillars for Life

Steve Seger — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Pieces of Impact podcast, host Steve Seger explores four key topics: the underrated benefits of walking for health and longevity, the truth behind the DeBeer diamond monopoly, the significance of memories in our lives, and the impact of small daily choices as outlined in a Twitter thread by Kevin Dahlstrom.

00:00
Intro

02:16
Why Walking Is the Most Underrated Tool We Have

08:16
The De Beers Diamond Illusion

12:02
Life is About the Acquisition of Memories

14:13
6 Pillars for a Healthy and Happy Life

#4: How to Read Character, Handle Hard Days, Fix Your Sleep, and Think Like High Performers

Steve Seger — Fri, 28 Nov 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Pieces of Impact podcast, host Steve Seger discusses four key ideas: how adversity reveals character, the importance of showing up fully even on bad days, actionable sleep tips for better performance, and the significance of conviction over talent in achieving success. Each segment offers insights and practical advice aimed at personal development and resilience.

00:00
Intro

01:17
Adversity Reveals Character

03:40
Resilience and Alignment in Life

06:04
Actionable Sleep Tips for Better Health

12:03
Conviction Over Talent: The Key to Success

#2: Career Advice, Saban’s Process, Dinner Menu Wisdom & the Library of Alexandria

Steve Seger — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Pieces of Impact podcast, Steve Seger shares a variety of impactful ideas ranging from timeless career principles to life lessons gleaned from a dinner menu. He discusses the importance of creating value, the mindset of successful figures like Nick Saban, and the significance of the Library of Alexandria in preserving knowledge. Each segment offers insights that encourage listeners to reflect on their own lives and careers, emphasizing the importance of small actions in creating a positive impact.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Impactful Ideas

01:42
Topic #1: Seven Pieces of Broad Career Advice

06:32
Topic #2: Nick Saban's Process

11:41
Topic #3: Life Lessons from a Dinner Menu

23:09
Topic #4: The Rise and Fall of the Library of Alexandria

Longfire

#46: Ron Schara: The Man Behind Minnesota Bound

#45: Mike Perry - A Literary Life Five Minutes From the Deer Stand

Show links

Guest links

Chapters

#44: Ed Roberson - The Strenuous Life, the Long Game, and Finding Your People

Show links

Guest links

Chapters

#43: Will Harris - What Happens When a Farm Thinks in Generations

Show links

Guest links

Chapters:

#42: April Vokey: The Wild Life Behind Anchored Outdoors

Show links

Guest links

Chapters

#41: Tyler Sharp: Africa, Hemingway, and the Story Behind Modern Huntsman

Show Links

#40: 26 Conversations Later - The 5 Lessons That Actually Stuck

#39: Steve Smith -The Career Move I Wish I Made 20 Years Earlier

Show Links

Watch on YouTube:https://youtube.com/@Steve_Seger2

A New Name and a Clearer Mission: Welcome to Longfire

#38: Rick Wittenbraker - The Brand Lessons Behind YETI and Howler Brothers

#37: Kate and Brandon Couden: The Real Business Behind a Great Gym

#36: Dr. Paul Sereno - The Real-Life Indiana Jones and the Age of Discovery

#35: Aaron Foss - How to Turn Everyday Problems Into Businesses That Scale

#34: A Sith Lord, a $90K Dog, a Redfish, and a Duck Stamp

#33: Carter Huff: The Story Behind Bogey’s Barn

#32: Scott Trench: Financial Independence, BiggerPockets, and Building Leverage

Chapter markers

#31: Joe Simonds - Why Niches Still Win in the AI Age

#30: Carter Dorsch - Growing a Brokerage, Building Trust, and Selling the Forgotten Coast

#29: Joe Cermele on Fishing Media, Audience Trust, and Staying Original

#28: Zak Herbstreit: Media, NIL, and What Makes College Football Special

#27: World Record Bucks, The Masters, Florida Land, and Pyramid Theories

#25: Mike Truitt - What It Really Takes to Buy, Grow, and Sell a Business

#26: AI Star Wars, Blue Zones, a Farm Business Idea, and a Powerful Parable

#24: Justin Inacio on What Pro Lacrosse Actually Looks Like Behind the Scenes

#23: Parkinson’s Law, Public Sinks, Football Black Belts, and Darth Vader

#22: Willie Austing: Country Music, Family, College Football, and the Work That Feels Like Play

#21: Michael Alberse: Living in a Van at Google, Cash Flow Investing, and Alternative Assets

#20: Steele Chambers - From Ohio State to the NFL and UFL + Building a Media Career

#19: Spoon Lures, Harry Potter HBO, Red Rising, and Standing Out in the AI Age

#18: Jakob James on College Football, the Transfer Portal, and Life After Football

#17: Adam Breneman: Turning Football Into Business (Media, Deals, Real Estate)

#16: Spencer Wonder:Terra Firma Tackle, Great White Sharks, and Responsible Land-Based Shark Fishing

#15: Dylan Wier and Blaine Kenny: Shark Fishing, Entrepreneurship, and Content Creation

#14: Erick Dent - Semi-Pro Fly Angler, Professional Photographer, Intentional Vagabond

#13: If You Only Do 3 Things for Your Health, Do These

#12: Michael Hughes I Every Day is an Audition

#11: Jake Reisig on Why Ownership Matters

#10: Bret Halsey | Professional Soccer Player Turned Real Estate Investor

#9: Tom Rowland on Fishing, Family, Fitness, and Entrepreneurship

#8: Mike Schroer: Lessons in Pivoting, Purpose, and Perseverance

#7: My 5 Favorite Lifts, a Life Equation, Grip Strength’s Power, and Sauna Timing for Sleep

#1: What is this?

#5: Creativity on Command, AI’s Workweek Revolution, $100 Skin-in-the-Game, and YouTube’s Future

#3: The Highest ROI: Invest in Yourself, Trust Your Gut, Learn from Brad Jacobs & Live Longer

#6: Why Walking Matters, The Truth About Diamonds, Living for Memories, and Six Pillars for Life

#4: How to Read Character, Handle Hard Days, Fix Your Sleep, and Think Like High Performers

#2: Career Advice, Saban’s Process, Dinner Menu Wisdom & the Library of Alexandria

Watch on YouTube:
https://youtube.com/@Steve_Seger2