Shows
🎙️ Interesting Humans PodcastJim Alford: Faith, WWII, and the Five Loves: A 97-Year-Old’s Incredible StoryJames Alford reflects on a long, “wonderful” life that began in poverty and heavy responsibility as the eldest child on a Mississippi farm. He joined the Army at 17½, serving in the post-WWII occupation and later Korea, traveling across the Far East and briefly working around General MacArthur. A devout Christian and staunch patriot, he believes America was founded as a Christian nation and centers his “five loves” on God, family, nation, anthem, and flag. After the military he built a career in commercial art and advertising, starting at Coca-Cola and eventually running a successful agency with major accounts. Golf and busin...
2025-12-101h 35🎙️ Interesting Humans PodcastPaul Harrigill: From Small-town Guitarist to Josh Turner's Stage, All in God's Time🎙️Host: https://www.instagram.com/hey_dad_can_we/In this Interesting Humans episode, guitarist Paul Harrigill shares his inspiring journey from humble Louisiana roots to touring the world with Josh Turner. Raised in a pastor’s family steeped in gospel and bluegrass, Paul began performing at age five and formed The Harrigill Family Band by age ten. After dropping out of high school to pursue music full-time, he joined the acclaimed bluegrass group Flat Lonesome, where he met his wife, Kelsey. Together, they earned record deals, major awards, and national recognition before stepping away from touring life to...
2025-11-101h 26
20-Minute MBA PodcastDennis Smith : Founder of Party on the Moon, America's Most Sought-After Party BandIn this inspiring interview on The 20-Minute MBA Podcast, host Jeff Hopeck speaks with Dennis Smith, the original founder of Party on the Moon Band, a 14-piece entertainment group that rose from widespread skepticism to international acclaim.Dennis recounts his journey from an 11-year-old discovering live music for the first time to building one of the most sought-after event bands in the world. That childhood moment—watching a local band rehearse—ignited his lifelong fascination with the creative process and the power of collaboration. Despite early rejections and industry doubts, Dennis persisted in forming a large, high-energy ense...
2025-10-1419 min🎙️ Interesting Humans PodcastBonneau Ansley: My Comeback Story [Dyslexia to $440 Million]In this episode of Interesting Humans, “Bonneau Ansley: My Comeback Story [Dyslexia to $440 Million],” real estate mogul Bonneau Ansley recounts his journey from struggling with dyslexia to building a $440 million business empire. He begins by describing the challenges he faced in school: being labeled “stupid,” failing classes, and internalizing negative expectations. Rather than letting that define him, Ansley used that adversity as motivation.He emphasizes the importance of persistence and resilience. Rather than giving into defeat or pity, he chose to outwork others—putting in long hours, sacrificing comfort, and embracing the grind. He also credits me...
2025-10-091h 1520-Minute MBA PodcastMichael Goodroe : CEO of Sawnee EMCIn this episode, Jeff Hopeck interviews Michael Goodroe, CEO of Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation. Goodroe shares his lifelong journey in the electric cooperative industry, which began in 1974 when his father insisted he get a summer job. Starting at the lowest level on a right-of-way crew, he learned hard work, resilience, and teamwork—principles that guided his rise through engineering, operations, and management to CEO.Goodroe credits his wife, Joan, with teaching him to view issues from multiple perspectives and to look for the good in others, turning challenges into growth opportunities. Under his leadership, Sawnee EMC grew fr...
2025-10-0813 min20-Minute MBA PodcastChris Schueler : CEO, CYDERES Cybersecurity [Founder, Robert Herjavec]Jeff Hopeck welcomes Chris Shueler, CEO of Cyderes, a cybersecurity company founded by Shark Tank’s Robert Herjavec—who later hired his first outside CEO in Chris. Shueler traces a nontraditional path: after military service and finishing college, he planned to become a high-school history teacher, inspired by his own teacher. His wife challenged that “low ceiling,” pushing him to recognize his gift for leading people. He built his career by “leading from the front” while “leaders eat last,” empowering teams so their performance becomes his performance. After private-sector roles and an acquisition into IBM, he rose quickly—becoming a VP at 32—but his...
2025-10-0120 min20-Minute MBA PodcastMike Barnhill : CEO, Specialist ID, Homeless to #1 Lanyard KingIn this episode of 20-Minute MBA, host Jeff Hopeck sits down with entrepreneur and musician Mike Barnhill to unpack a story of grit, transformation, and staying true to what matters most. Mike tells how he went from homeless to #1 in the world! It all started with a book and willingness. Mike’s journey began with humble beginnings—growing up poor, sleeping on couches, and feeling trapped in a cycle he thought might never change. The turning point came when he and his brother discovered the power of self-education. From audio programs on long commutes to books like Good...
2025-09-2409 min🎙️ Interesting Humans PodcastWhite House Evacuation EXPLAINED 🔥 [Secret Service Insider]In today’s episode, Host Jeff Hopeck (Former U.S. Secret Service Officer) gives a detailed account of May 11, 2005 (he was standing post on the North grounds of the White House). It was the day an airplane disaster caused a panicked, chaos-filled White House evacuation. Being only a few short years after 9/11, it was a charged atmosphere. “All the training in the world can’t properly prepare you for the radio transmission that turned a blue-sky, cloudless day, into what felt like the last couple minutes on earth.” — Jeff HopeckSupport the showTo learn mo...
2025-09-1712 min20-Minute MBA PodcastChris Carneal : Founder/CEO, BOOSTER. $1 Billion+ Raised for Schools👉 Episode 1 : Chris Carneal, Founder & CEO of Booster (the fun runs in grade schools!). Host Jeff Hopeck asks these 4 questions: How did you get here? What's the best advice you ever got? What's the biggest mistake you ever made? And what life lesson would you like to pass on? In Chris' answers he explains his unique approach on virtues vs values along with his biggest failure in character explained in depth and more…. I would normally say “you don’t wanna miss this” but it’s way more important than that. You can’t AFFORD to miss this. [Watch full episode on Y...
2025-09-0418 min🎙️ Interesting Humans PodcastWill Jones: Inside the Life of a Country Music Singer & Songwriter🎙️Host : @jeffhopeck🚀Guest : https://www.instagram.com/willjonesofficial/In this heartfelt episode of Interesting Humans, host Jeff Hopeck sits down with rising country music artist Will Jones for a conversation that’s anything but ordinary. Known for his authenticity, storytelling, and deep Appalachian roots, Will opens up about the winding road that led him from playing bluegrass as a kid in Virginia to sharing stages with Josh Turner.Will talks candidly about the pressure to fit in, turning down early publishing deals that didn’t feel right, and the moment he embraced being unapologetically himself. He r...
2025-08-081h 28🎙️ Interesting Humans PodcastNic McKinley, Ex-CIA: The Digital Age of Trafficking - Protecting Our ChildrenIn this episode, Nick McKinley discusses the critical issue of human trafficking, emphasizing the stark differences between kidnapping and trafficking. He highlights the modern methods traffickers use to exploit children, particularly through social media and online platforms. McKinley shares insights into the mission of Deliver Fund, which leverages technology to combat trafficking and support law enforcement. The conversation also touches on the legal landscape, the influence of lobbyists, and the economic impact of trafficking. McKinley urges parents to take proactive measures to protect their children and emphasizes the importance of community involvement in the fight against trafficking....
2025-07-281h 01🎙️ Interesting Humans PodcastCameron Rhode: 24 Half-Siblings. How, Why and so much More!In this episode, Cameron Rhode shares his extraordinary journey of discovering his identity through the revelation of having 24-25 half-siblings, all stemming from his mother's use of an anonymous sperm donor. He reflects on the impact of growing up without a father figure, the close bond he shared with his mother, and how music played a significant role in their relationship. Cameron's passion for women's sports led him to become an owner of a women's football team in Atlanta, showcasing his commitment to promoting women's athletics. He expresses optimism for the future of women's sports and emphasizes the importance...
2025-07-1742 min🎙️ Interesting Humans PodcastGary Arndt: The Famous Travel Blogger Who Changed a Nation's Visa LawSummaryIn this episode, Gary Arndt shares his extensive travel experiences, highlighting the challenges and unexpected moments he has faced in various countries. From close calls during protests to the joys of culinary adventures, Gary provides a unique perspective on the realities of traveling the world. He discusses the importance of adaptability, the evolution of technology in travel, and offers practical tips for aspiring travelers. The conversation also touches on the impact of perceptions on safety and the significance of understanding local contexts when traveling.TakeawaysTraveling can...
2025-07-1158 min🎙️ Interesting Humans PodcastDr. Armando Sardi: A Surgeon Changing the Future of CancerIn this episode of the Interesting Humans Podcast, Dr. Armando Sardi discusses the innovative HIPEC surgery, which combines surgical tumor removal with heated chemotherapy to treat advanced abdominal cancers. He shares inspiring patient stories, including that of Gary, who was given a terminal diagnosis but found hope through this procedure. Dr. Sardi reflects on his medical journey, the advancements in surgical techniques, and the importance of patient perspectives in decision-making. He emphasizes the need for second opinions in cancer treatment and the challenges faced with insurance acceptance. The episode provides a comprehensive look at the complexities of cancer treatment...
2025-07-041h 29
🎙️ Interesting Humans PodcastInside the Autopsy Room: What the Dead Tell Us, Dr, Geoffrey Smith. Chief Medical Examiner GBIIn this episode, Dr. Geoffrey Smith, the Chief Medical Examiner for the state of Georgia, shares insights into the world of forensic pathology. He discusses the differences between medical examiners and coroners, the challenges faced in the field, and the emotional toll of dealing with death on a daily basis. Dr. Smith recounts personal anecdotes from his career, including experiences with murder trials and the impact of the fentanyl epidemic. He explains the process of death investigation, the importance of determining cause and manner of death, and the complexities involved in death certificates.Takeaways
2025-06-251h 50
🎙️ Interesting Humans PodcastC. Neil Davenport - From Crushed to Creating: How I Established My Film CareerIn this conversation, Neil Davenport shares his journey in the film industry, detailing his early experiences with scams and the lessons learned from them. He discusses the current state of the film industry, particularly the differences between Georgia and LA, and the economic factors influencing filmmaking today. Neil also explores the role of AI in the industry and the rise of vertical content, providing valuable advice for aspiring filmmakers.TakeawaysGet an entertainment attorney to protect yourself.Recognizing red flags is crucial in the industry.Scams can happen to anyone, even the inexperienced.Learning...
2025-06-191h 07
🎙️ Interesting Humans PodcastDr. James Boron, Gruesome ER Stories [Warning: Graphic, Horrific]In this episode, the conversation delves into the complexities of trauma surgery, particularly focusing on gunshot wounds and the challenges faced by trauma surgeons. The guest, Dr. Boron, shares insights from his experiences, discussing the differences between various types of injuries, the critical importance of timely medical intervention, and the miraculous recoveries that can occur in the trauma unit. The discussion also covers the technical aspects of trauma care, including the management of blood loss, the importance of airway and breathing, and the intricate process of identifying and treating injuries. Through case studies and personal anecdotes, the episode highlights...
2025-06-091h 40
🎙️ Interesting Humans PodcastShot in the Throat with a Hunting Rifle and Lived!In this episode, Keith Mask shares his harrowing experience of being shot in the throat at the age of 18 during a hunting trip. He recounts the events leading up to the incident, the immediate aftermath, and the emergency response that followed. Keith describes the pain and fear he felt, the miraculous survival against the odds, and the long road to recovery. He reflects on the lessons learned from this traumatic experience and how it shaped his life moving forward.TakeawaysKeith was shot in the throat at 18 years old.The incident occurred during a...
2025-06-0545 min
🎙️ Interesting Humans PodcastPilot's Trifecta of Near-death Experiences & more …Most pilots retire having never experienced 1 of these near-death experiences. Not Kelly Fox. As a 747 Pilot, he experienced all 3 ... in one ONE trip! That's correct. In just 72 hours, this pilot stared death in the face and each time his training fought back and wrestled the demon of death to the ground; each time emerging victorious and ready for the next battle. In this episode, we discuss the different paths one can take in becoming a pilot. Had you asked me before this episode I would have said you needed to learn flying in the military and only r...
2025-05-291h 38
🎙️ Interesting Humans PodcastCIA Missions Gone WrongIn this engaging conversation, Nic McKinley shares his unique experiences as a CIA operative, highlighting the humorous and unexpected moments that occur in high-stakes intelligence operations. He discusses the advantages of using Riverside for podcasting, recounts funny stories from combat, and reflects on the challenges faced during covert operations. The conversation emphasizes the importance of adaptability and humor in the field, providing listeners with a fascinating glimpse into the world of national security. In this conversation, Nic McKinley shares gripping stories from his experiences in high-stress situations, including a tense confrontation with armed individuals and the unexpected assistance he...
2025-05-2231 min
🎙️ Interesting Humans PodcastRetired U.S. Secret Service Agent (Near-Death Story & More!)What happens when a Secret Service agent stares death in the face—over and over again?Meet Scott Bryson, a man whose career in the Secret Service reads like a Hollywood thriller. From high-stakes missions overseas to life-or-death moments on U.S. soil, Scott’s stories aren’t just intense—they’re jaw-dropping.In this episode, he takes us inside some of the most heart-pounding moments of his career, including a dramatic hospital dash while leading the protection detail for Lara Trump—just as she was about to give birth.Scott’s ch...
2025-05-152h 17
🎙️ Interesting Humans Podcast4ocean (Plastic Islands & Panic at 150 ft.)SummaryIn this episode, Tony Ernst from Four Ocean shares his journey from waste management to leading ocean cleanup efforts. He emphasizes the importance of transparency in their operations, detailing the extensive documentation required for every cleanup. Tony discusses the equipment and partnerships that enable their work, the daily operations in South Florida, and the human element involved in their cleanup efforts. He also shares insights into the types of trash collected, the sorting and recycling process, and the challenges faced in waste management. Finally, Tony recounts personal close calls in diving, highlighting the importance...
2025-05-071h 23
🎙️ Interesting Humans PodcastMilitary Trained (82nd Airborne). Mission: Protect Your Child.From Airborne to Unshakable TrustJohn Nelson’s life reads like a movie script—82nd Airborne veteran, government work across continents, and now the founder of a student tour company built entirely on safety, trust, and integrity. In this episode, John shares wild jump stories, Cold War memories, surviving chaos during the Boston Marathon bombing, and why his military background shapes every tour he leads today.Support the showTo learn more about my work and the conversations I care about, find me at @hey_dad_can_we
2025-05-021h 27
🎙️ Interesting Humans Podcast437 lb. Lie He Told Himself Every Day👀 437lbs down to 205lbs. Listen to Keith Brock's inspirational story that began with a couch 🛋️ in Miami, FL and a gut-wrenching event that sparked lasting change in his life. One moment he was living the life of a 437 pound frustrated and miserable human being. The next moment he turned his life over and walked out of his old body. Some incredible highlights of this episode with Keith include:1) he dropped 2 1/2 shoe sizes, but this is just one of the many fascinating bodily changes that took place in his life2) the weight loss was the easy part, it...
2025-04-231h 13
🎙️ Interesting Humans PodcastTOPGUN Pilot to Renowned High School TeacherRay Schenk : The ultimate story of a Top Gun pilot turned high school teacher, whose classes all have waiting lists to get into. Ray’s approach to modern day education, finding and developing leaders for the next generation and his keen sense of using AI & Robotics in the classroom have all landed him on Episode 52 of The 🎙️ Interesting Humans Podcast. He has a proven approach to consistently raising the bar for students so they can tap into their fullest learning potentials. He is unique and very interesting. Here are some of the discussion points you will learn about in this epis...
2025-04-171h 41
🎙️ Interesting Humans PodcastWorld Series of Poker Champion, Jeff Tomlinson♣️ ♦️ ♥️ Jeff Tomlinson, 2015 World Series poker champion talks poker tells, card counting, rules, and stories ranging from dumbest thing seen at a poker table to the final hand before winning his gold bracelet! Even if you’re like me and do not play poker, you’re in for a real treat on this episode. Plus, jeff is such an awesome person and you’re gonna simply love the life lessons you will learn in this episode from the game of poker.♣️ ♦️ ♥️ On another note, I am so grateful for the introduction to Jeff from my good friend and former colleague Harry Fuller...
2025-04-101h 15
🎙️ Interesting Humans PodcastJohn MacVeigh, FBI Horror Story“This is one of the sickest and most gruesome displays of human depravity ever seen at the FBI” — Retired Special Agent John Macveigh.I met John through Retired U.S. Secret Service Special Agent Harry Fuller. Harry is a close friend of mine (and we worked together 2003-2006) who appeared in Episode 30 together with Retired U.S. Secret Service Agent Derek Lyman (who also appeared in Episode 1 back when it was audio-only).* Watch the full episode on YouTube here. Support the show...
2025-04-032h 51