This episode: Rediscovering the Treasures of Life: Mike & Karen Burkhard on Adversity, Love, and Passing Wisdom Forward.   Here’s what you’ll learn about: Introduction and Purpose of the Meeting (0:00) Host Drew Deraney introduces Mike and Karen Burkhard, thanking Frank Zaccari for the introduction. Drew discusses the concept of life being linear and how external circumstances can derail that path. He categorizes people into three types: those who don't see adversity, those who see it but blame others, and those who see it as an opportunity for growth. Drew sets the stage for Karen to share her defining moment that transformed her from Woman number one or two to the woman she is now. Karen's Defining Moment (2:25) Karen shares her upbringing in a loving home with a disciplinarian father and a gentle mother. She recounts her struggle with math and failing the New York State Regents at 14. Her father tutored her in algebra over the summer, and she passed the Regents with a 92, thanks to his mentorship. Karen reflects on how her father's faith in her taught her that she could achieve anything. Mike's Defining Moment (5:08) Mike shares his experience of his mother's battle with liver cancer and her eventual death at 58. He describes how his mother's illness made him realize the preciousness of life and the importance of total health. Mike explains how his mother's experience deepened his love for life and his children. He reflects on how his mother's death changed him from an internal to an external person, focusing on others' well-being. Similarities in Defining Moments (7:35) Drew asks Mike and Karen to touch on the similarities in their defining moments. Karen notes that both her parents were strong personalities and wonderful mentors who shaped her to pass on mentorship to others. Mike agrees, adding that his parents' influence led to a change in his emotions, from arrogance to a deeper love for life. Drew comments on how time doesn’t necessarily heal wounds and good memories remain important. Meeting and Early Careers (9:41) Drew transitions to discussing how Mike and Karen met and their early careers. Karen explains that their shared love of sports brought them together and that Mike made the first move at a dance.