Tell Us Your Story - Northern California

When the whistle blows and the stadium lights blaze, it's not just a game that unfolds on the field—it's the culmination of life lessons, passion, and a community. Join us as we sit down with Jason Adams, the revered head football coach and educator from Rocklin High School. Through Jason's eyes, we traverse the terrain of mentorship, the essence of servant leadership, and the personal devotion that fuels a triumphant football program. His reflections connect the dots between the influence of his father's mentor, his own coaching philosophy, and the invaluable lessons that extend far beyond the game's final quarter.
Navigating the intricate dance of sports, family, and community, Jason's story is a playbook on the transformative power of coaching. Whether he's breaking down the importance of sportsmanship in youth football or sharing the joy of high school athletic pursuits, his insights reveal how individual talent is just a part of the equation. It's about more than the game—it's about creating a supportive ecosystem where parents, coaches, and the community at large play a pivotal role in sculpting the future leaders of tomorrow. As Jason recounts his journey from playing to the heart of coaching Rocklin's football program, we uncover the profound impact of sports on family life, the sacrifices made, and the pride that comes from fostering an environment where all players, regardless of skill, find their place and purpose if they are willing to put the work in.
Wrapping up our conversation, Jason opens up about the behind-the-scenes grind that is often overshadowed by the Friday night lights—the countless hours of film study, the strategic transitions within coaching staff, and the life lessons he imparts to his team. He shares personal anecdotes of family sacrifice and the unwavering support systems that make his coaching career possible. The legacy of a coach like Jason Adams isn't measured in touchdowns or championships alone; it's found in the lasting bonds with players, the community ties strengthened through sport, and the growth and leadership lessons that resonate well beyond the turf of Rocklin High School.

This week we host Aaron and Laurie Rollins, the entrepreneurial duo behind Wallbeds “n” More, join us to unfold their story of weaving together the threads of marriage and business. Their tale is not just about love and business, but also a testament to the resilience found in a blended family and the triumph over conventional wisdom that says you can't have it all. They debunk myths about the necessity of college degrees and shine a light on the value of mentorship and sales experience in carving out a successful career path.
Strap in for a narrative rollercoaster, where personal and professional worlds collide with electrifying synergy and surprise weddings! As we navigate through the nuances of running a business with your spouse, we uncover the delicate art of communication and the growth that comes from embracing unexpected roles. From the emotional labor of sales to the crossroads of career decisions post-college, our conversation with Aaron and Laurie offers a raw look at the sacrifices and rewards that come with chasing the entrepreneurial dream. Their story is punctuated with anecdotes of personal growth, illustrating how sometimes the biggest risk can lead to the most rewarding chapter in life.
Finally, we cap off our journey with practical wisdom for anyone standing on the precipice of business ownership. Aaron and Laurie reveal how they transformed Wallbeds “n” More from a humble venture into a flourishing enterprise, doubling their revenue and persevering through the pandemic's turbulence. They dish out advice on starting and scaling a business, the importance of happiness, and the significance of imparting entrepreneurial spirit to the next generation. So, if you're eager to discover how to navigate the high seas of business amidst the winds of personal commitment, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

This week's guest is tattoo maestro Sonny Batten from Kinetic Ink. Sonny unravels his life's tapestry, inked with stories of artistry and service to veterans and first responders. There's a raw grace in Sonny's recounting of his childhood in Hartford City, Indiana, shaped by a family of artists and the lessons from "Rich Dad, Poor Dad." His narrative doesn't shy away from the turmoil of divorce or the teenage rebellion that charted his course towards the buzzing tattoo guns instead of the military drumbeat.
Imagine a world where the ink on your skin is more than a statement—it's a saga of survival, resilience, and homage. Kinetic Ink stands as a sanctuary within this realm, a place where Sonny and his team transform skin into a canvas of honor for those who've served. Our conversation peels back the layers of the tattoo industry, revealing the not-so-glamorous path of apprenticeship, the evolution of an artist, and the ideal dynamics of client collaborations. Every tattoo tells a tale, but it's the shared journey of artist and muse that weaves the most profound narratives.
At Kinetic Ink, these stories are anything but silent. Flags, coins, and patches make up the fabric of this community hub, where Sonny's passion project of offering discounts to veterans and first responders fosters a haven of gratitude. This episode is more than a listen; it's an intimate expedition through the life of an artist dedicated to the beauty of giving back—one tattoo at a time. Join us, and be inspired by Sonny's tale of art, transformation, and the indelible impact of community service.

Our latest guest's narrative is nothing short of a masterclass in the relentless pursuit of entrepreneurial success, starting from the tough lessons learned amidst the financial crisis. Joel Tilford captivatingly recounts his early days in Lincoln, California, where the fusion of his parents' resourcefulness and his own young ambition set the stage for a future defined by business ventures and financial growth.
Joel’s journey is as educational as it is interesting, detailing how a teenage pastime of flipping go-karts evolved into strategic business decisions and a passionate aversion to complacency. Dissecting his path from a budding entrepreneur in high school to launching a lucrative junk removal business, the insights shared are a blueprint for anyone with an appetite for hard work and an eye for opportunity. With each anecdote, he underscores the critical importance of customer satisfaction and strategic growth, embodying the very essence of what it means to build a business from the ground up.
Life as a young entrepreneur isn't just about business strategy and financial acumen; it's also about character development and finding balance. Our guest opens up about the challenges of managing a multimillion-dollar company, the invaluable lessons of leadership, and the transformative power of a consistent workout routine. His story is a testament to the impact that dedication to the final 20% of effort can have on success, and how a disciplined approach to both business and personal life yields remarkable results. Prepare to be inspired, perhaps even to pursue your own venture, as we uncover the compelling journey of a young entrepreneur reshaping his destiny through sheer will and a visionary mindset.

This week we bring you the inspiring stories of Donovan Lopez and Handre Reinecke, the dynamic duo affectionately known as DLO & DRE!

In our sit down, Donovan and Handre unravel their intertwined narrative, from growing up together as teammates in the basketball community to becoming lifelong friends. They've taken the principles of teamwork and discipline learned in the gym and applied them to their lives post-graduation. Their stories are a masterclass in pivoting passions, embracing growth, and transforming sportsmanship into a business acumen that transcends athletics. Listen in as they detail three key areas of their story:

Basketball Journey: We dive into the heart of their basketball careers, as they relive the highs, lows, successes, and setbacks of the game. Donovan and Handre share the raw, authentic stories of their athletic pursuits, which resulted in well-deserved Hall of Fame titles at Rocklin High School. Discover how they navigated it all, what they learned, and the advice they want to pass on.

Athletic Disciplines in Everyday Life: Explore how these young athletes seamlessly translated their experiences on the court into everyday disciplines. Donovan and Handre discuss the profound impact of applying athletic principles to their daily lives, where Donovan is currently studying at the University of Nevada, Reno, and Handre deciding to forego college and start a personal training business. They share insights on discipline, perseverance, and the importance of passing on these valuable lessons to others.

Building a Business and Brand: At the ripe age of 22, Donovan and Handre are boldly taking a leap into entrepreneurship. Hear how they're navigating the challenges of building a business and brand from the ground up. From the risks they're taking to the passion driving their venture, this segment unveils the determination and ambition fueling their entrepreneurial journey.

This one isn’t just for the athletes. It’s for the dreamers, it’s for the ones willing to put in the work, it’s for the ones willing to follow their passion, and it’s for the bold. This one is for you!