Shows
A More Brilliant Life: Stories of ReinventionFrom Dairy to Tourism: A Second Life!Is that the voice of Jesse Ventura? No, Jay Schmidt, shares his transformative journey from a 30-year career in the dairy industry to becoming a tour guide in the UK. Jay discusses the personal challenges he faced, including an unhappy marriage, and how his daughter's encouragement led him to explore tourism. He reflects on the cultural adjustments he made after relocating to the UK, the challenges of starting a new career, and the joy of connecting with people from around the world. Jay also offers insights and advice for those considering major life changes, emphasizing the importance of having...2025-07-101h 20A More Brilliant Life: Stories of ReinventionFrom Corporate to Costa Rica: A Journey of Self-DiscoveryIn this episode, Jacob Rieke interviews Sophia Reuser, who shares her journey from a corporate job in the Netherlands to a fulfilling life in Costa Rica as an Ayurvedic therapist and tour guide. Sophia discusses her experiences with burnout, the importance of self-discovery, and how traveling has shaped her understanding of health and happiness. She emphasizes the significance of listening to one's intuition and the need for a balanced lifestyle, contrasting her past corporate life with the slower pace of life in Costa Rica. The conversation also touches on cultural differences and the challenges of finding personal fulfillment in...2025-07-0346 minA More Brilliant Life: Stories of ReinventionEmbracing Change: The Journey to the AzoresOlga Brouwer shares her transformative journey from being a teacher in the Netherlands to becoming a life and leadership coach living in the Azores. She discusses the challenges of identity, personal growth, and the importance of embracing change. Olga reflects on her experiences with coaching, art, and the lessons learned through her transitions, emphasizing the significance of speaking one's truth and the ongoing journey of self-discovery.Takeaways:Change is possible at any moment in life.Personal development often requires stepping out of comfort zones.Embracing new environments can lead to significant growth.Art and creativity can be powerful tools...2025-06-261h 03A More Brilliant Life: Stories of ReinventionFrom Tragedy to Triumph: Chris DT Gordon's JourneyIn this episode, Chris DT Gordon shares his incredible journey of personal transformation following a life-threatening incident caused by flesh-eating bacteria. He discusses the initial event, the diagnosis, and the extensive treatment he underwent at the Mayo Clinic. Throughout his recovery, Chris emphasizes the importance of community support and the mental shift he experienced, leading to an attitude of gratitude. He reflects on the challenges of rehabilitation and how this experience has shaped his perspective on life, ultimately inspiring him to help others through speaking engagements and his book.Takeaways:...2025-06-1947 minA More Brilliant Life: Stories of ReinventionBrie Taralson; Transforming Life Through CommunityIn this episode, Brie Taralson shares her transformative journey from a career in healthcare to establishing a community hub and bookstore, Ulm Sweet Ulm and Lykke Books. She discusses the impact of COVID-19 on her mental health, the importance of reflection in finding clarity, and the significance of community building. Brie emphasizes the value of aligning one's career with personal values and the importance of social connections for happiness. She offers advice for those feeling stuck in their careers and highlights the richness of her new life filled with meaningful experiences and relationships.Takeaways:2025-06-1257 minA More Brilliant Life: Stories of ReinventionJeff Toomer; From Funeral Director to Fitness Coach: A Journey of TransformationIn this conversation, Jacob Rieke and Jeff Toomer discuss the transformative journey of Jeff, who transitioned from a career as a funeral director to becoming a fitness coach. They explore the importance of support from loved ones, the challenges of daily life in a demanding job, and the pivotal moments that led to Jeff's significant weight loss and lifestyle changes. The discussion emphasizes the role of failure in personal growth, the impact of community in fitness, and the necessity of prioritizing long-term health over immediate results. In this conversation, Jeff Toomer shares his transformative journey from working in a...2025-06-051h 12A More Brilliant Life: Stories of ReinventionFrom Stuck to Unstoppable: Ann Vote's JourneyIn this conversation, Jacob Rieke and Ann Vote explore the transformative journey of Ann from a negative mindset in her teaching career to becoming a motivational speaker and culture coach. They discuss the importance of recognizing when one is stuck, the impact of personal development, and the necessity of surrounding oneself with positivity. Ann shares her experiences of overcoming negativity, the challenges of transitioning careers, and the significance of having a supportive network. The conversation emphasizes the ongoing nature of personal transformation and the importance of taking actionable steps towards growth. In this conversation, Ann Vote shares her journey...2025-05-291h 14A More Brilliant Life: Stories of ReinventionThe Awakening: How Gwen Russell Transformed Her LifeHave you ever stared in awe, wondering how some individuals orchestrate a complete metamorphosis of their health, career, and entire life? Gwen doesn't just wonder; she shows you. Discover the powerful journey of how she shed 60 pounds, banished chronic fatigue, and transformed from an unhealthy existence into the thriving fitness and health coach she is today.In this episode, Jacob Rieke interviews Gwen Russell, who shares her transformative journey from Gwen 1.0 to Gwen 2.0. Gwen discusses her struggles with weight, health issues, and the pivotal moment that led her to seek help through health coaching...2025-05-2250 minA More Brilliant Life: Stories of ReinventionFrom a Minnesota Farm to a Costa Rica ParadiseKylie Rieke went from living as a farmer's wife in Minnesota to an author and life coach living in Costa Rica. 2025-05-1636 min
StoryBuilders PodcastBreaking the American Trance and Moving to Costa Rica with Kylie & Jake RiekeSend us a textKylie and Jake Rieke join Andrew Biernat on StoryBuilders to share their powerful journey from burnout on a Minnesota farm to living a purpose-filled life in Costa Rica. Once entrenched in what they call the “American trance,” the Riekes made a radical decision to walk away from their generational farm and rewrite their story from the inside out. Their transformation—captured in their upcoming book A More Brilliant Life—is a roadmap for anyone craving clarity, change, and authenticity.Key Takeaways:Escaping the Trance: Discover how Kylie an...2025-05-1341 min