In this episode of the Mindset Growth Podcast, Gary Bontrager discusses the concept of personal efficiency, drawing parallels with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). He emphasizes the importance of self-accountability, the necessity of telling oneself the truth, and the impact of diet and health on mental clarity. The conversation also delves into the significance of relationships in personal growth and the importance of leaving a legacy of significance rather than merely seeking to be liked.
In this episode of the Breaking Barriers podcast, host Gary Bontrager interviews Fred Nichols, a pioneer in the sport of tractor pulling. They discuss Fred's early experiences with tractor pulling, the evolution of his tractors, and the innovations he introduced to the sport. Fred shares memorable stories from his time on the track, the changes in the sport over the years, and his reflections on the community of tractor pullers. In this segment of the conversation, Fred Nichols shares his experiences and insights from the world of tractor pulling, particularly focusing on the evolution of alcohol engines, the challenges faced in engine modifications, and the memorable moments that shaped his career.
Fred emphasizes the importance of sportsmanship and character in the sport, recounting stories of camaraderie and competition. The discussion also touches on the innovations in technology and the trials faced on the road during events, highlighting the dedication and passion of those involved in tractor pulling. They discuss the significance of trophies, the evolution of tractor pulling associations, creative tire sharpening techniques, and the transition from diesel to alcohol-powered tractors. This is an episode you won't want to miss!
In this episode of the Mindset Growth Podcast, Gary Bontrager and Ray Gage dive into powerful insights from Ray’s bestselling book, Start with Stop. They explore the profound concept of becoming the best version of yourself as the foundation for stronger relationships, personal growth, and fulfilling your life’s mission. Ray opens up about navigating life’s challenges, embracing growth with confidence, and reframing past experiences to break free from self-limiting beliefs.
The conversation touches on themes like overcoming trauma, self-reflection, and the importance of looking in the mirror and being proud of the person you see. They also highlight the balance between self-improvement and serving others, emphasizing how contribution accelerates personal growth. Packed with actionable wisdom and inspiring stories, this episode is a must-watch for anyone seeking to transform their mindset and elevate their life.
In this powerful episode of Breaking Barriers, host Gary Bontrager sits down with Mike Schultz, a remarkable individual who has overcome challenges and redefined success on his terms. From navigating personal and professional hurdles to making an impact in his industry, Mike shares his journey of resilience, innovation, and determination.Tune in as Gary and Mike dive into the mindset, strategies, and lessons learned from breaking through limitations and building a life of purpose. Whether you're an entrepreneur, leader, or someone seeking motivation to push past obstacles, this conversation is packed with insights that will inspire you to take action.
🎧 Listen now and start breaking your own barriers!
In this debut episode of the Mindset Growth Podcast, Gary Bontrager and co-host Ray Gage dive deep into the themes of failure, trust, and clarity. They explore how failures, often magnified in our own minds, can impact our personal and professional lives. Ray discusses the idea that failure is not fatal and shares insights from his book, Start with Stop. Together, they uncover how miscommunication, emotional reactions, and past traumas shape our relationships and decisions, often creating a cycle of mistrust and unclear intentions. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and reframing our internal dialogue to build healthier, more trusting relationships. Tune in for thought-provoking strategies to overcome disconnects, reclaim clarity, and find growth through life’s challenges. Don’t miss this inspiring start to the podcast series!
In this exciting episode of the Breaking Barriers Podcast, host Gary Bontrager welcomes special guest Bear Sieverding, a well-known figure in the world of tractor pulling. Bear takes listeners on a journey through his lifelong passion for the sport, from growing up on a family farm in Bellevue, Iowa, to becoming a key player in the Eastern Iowa Tractor Force Association. He shares stories of his early days participating in local pulls, the evolution of the sport, and the dedicated community that keeps it thriving.
Bear also dives into the history of tractor pulling in the region, the importance of grassroots events, and how the sport continues to connect families and communities. As a seasoned announcer, Bear emphasizes the value of storytelling at events and how he brings the rich history of each machine and competitor to life for the audience. His passion for preserving traditions and inspiring the next generation of pullers is evident throughout the conversation.
This episode is a must-listen for tractor pulling enthusiasts, motorsport fans, and anyone interested in hearing about the powerful impact of small-town communities coming together through shared passions.
In this episode of the Breaking Barriers Podcast, host Gary Bontrager sits down with Mike Fornash to take a deep dive into the rich history of tractor pulling, the legacy of Mike’s father, Jerry Fornash, and how the sport has evolved over the years. Recorded in the nostalgic Ginko Garage, this conversation highlights the grassroots passion for tractor pulling and the strong community ties formed through decades of competition. Mike shares fascinating stories about his father's journey from farming in West Chester, Iowa, to becoming a well-respected name in the tractor pulling circuit. From tinkering with farm tractors to building custom modified machines like "Lurch," the Fornash family's ingenuity and determination left a lasting impact on the sport. The discussion also explores the camaraderie among local pullers, the evolution of tractor modifications, and how family traditions were woven into every aspect of their journey. With stories of road trips to competitions, early engineering hacks, and the iconic "Snicker" nickname, this episode captures the spirit of perseverance, innovation, and legacy. Whether you're a motorsports enthusiast or someone who appreciates tales of family and tradition, this episode will inspire you to reflect on your own passions and the barriers you’ve broken along the way. 🎙️ Tune in to hear: ✅ The origins of Jerry Fornash’s passion for tractor pulling ✅ How modified tractors like "Lurch" shaped the sport ✅ The challenges and joys of traveling the country for competitions ✅ The importance of community and legacy in motorsports ✅ Mike's reflections on his father’s impact on the sport and beyond 💬 Don’t miss this captivating episode that highlights hard work, innovation, and family bonds in a way that will resonate with listeners from all walks of life.
In this episode of the Mindset Growth Podcast, hosts Gary Bontrager and Ray Gage explore the common assumptions and perceptions that business owners have regarding consulting and coaching. They emphasize the importance of understanding that many business challenges are rooted in human relationships rather than industry-specific issues. The conversation highlights the significance of being open to diverse perspectives and learning from various industries to drive growth and overcome personal limitations in business.
In this engaging episode of Breaking Barriers with Gary Bontrager, host Gary Bontrager sits down with Kenny Sanders, a legendary tractor puller from Dayton, Iowa. Kenny shares his journey from being a kid with a passion for motors to becoming a prominent figure in the tractor-pulling world, famously known as “The Enforcer.” They delve into the fascinating mechanics behind his iconic International tractor, equipped with four turbochargers. Kenny recounts his innovative approach to building and modifying machinery, often fabricating parts from scratch, and highlights the determination it took to compete at the highest levels of the sport.Listeners will be captivated by Kenny's anecdotes, including overcoming technical challenges, pushing the limits of machinery, and the camaraderie of the tractor-pulling community. The episode provides a unique insight into the grit and creativity required to excel in this niche sport. Whether you’re a motorsport enthusiast or intrigued by tales of engineering ingenuity, Kenny's story is sure to inspire.
In this episode of the Mindset Growth Podcast, hosts Gary Bontrager and Ray Gage discuss the evolution of their podcast into Schaeffer Creek Media, exploring the reasons behind the rebranding and the new opportunities it presents. They delve into the purpose of their new segments, including Ray's Rants, which aims to challenge assumptions and spark dialogue, and Breaking Barriers, focused on preserving historical narratives in the tractor pulling community. The conversation emphasizes the importance of mindset change, storytelling, and community engagement.
In this episode (part 2) of the Breaking Barriers podcast, host Gary Bontrager engages with guest Warren Ropp to explore the rich history of tractor pulling, its evolution, and the personal stories that shaped the sport. They discuss the origins of tractor pulling in local communities, the technological advancements in tractors over the years, and the significant role of family in the sport. The conversation also delves into the innovations in pulling techniques and the impact of these changes on the sport's future. Gary also discusses the evolution of tractor pulling technology, focusing on turbo systems, maintenance practices, fuel innovations, and the competitive landscape of the sport. He shares insights on the advancements in turbo technology, the importance of reliability, and the innovations in cylinder heads and valve materials. The conversation also touches on the evolution of clutch systems and the challenges faced by competitors in the modern tractor pulling scene. Gary and Warren reflect on the evolution of tractor pulling, his personal journey in motorsports, and the impact of community and family. He shares stories of his experiences with tractor pulling and legends racing, emphasizing the importance of giving back through initiatives like Racing for a Cause. The discussion also touches on life lessons learned through grief and the significance of appreciating opportunities.
In this episode of the Breaking Barriers podcast, host Gary Bontrager engages with guest Warren Ropp to explore the rich history of tractor pulling, its evolution, and the personal stories that shaped the sport. They discuss the origins of tractor pulling in local communities, the technological advancements in tractors over the years, and the significant role of family in the sport. The conversation also delves into the innovations in pulling techniques and the impact of these changes on the sport's future. Gary also discusses the evolution of tractor pulling technology, focusing on turbo systems, maintenance practices, fuel innovations, and the competitive landscape of the sport. He shares insights on the advancements in turbo technology, the importance of reliability, and the innovations in cylinder heads and valve materials. The conversation also touches on the evolution of clutch systems and the challenges faced by competitors in the modern tractor pulling scene. Gary and Warren reflect on the evolution of tractor pulling, his personal journey in motorsports, and the impact of community and family. He shares stories of his experiences with tractor pulling and legends racing, emphasizing the importance of giving back through initiatives like Racing for a Cause. The discussion also touches on life lessons learned through grief and the significance of appreciating opportunities.
In this episode of the Mindset Growth Podcast, Jason Wright shares his journey from a structured upbringing to becoming an entrepreneur. He discusses the challenges he faced, including a failed business attempt, and how he persevered to find success in marketing and lead generation. Jason emphasizes the importance of mindset, taking control of one's thoughts, and the need for consistent action in business. He also touches on the evolution of marketing strategies in the digital age and the significance of nurturing existing client relationships. In this conversation, Jason Wright discusses the importance of targeting the right audience in marketing, emphasizing the shift towards video content and the need for authentic communication. He reflects on the transition from seeking wealth to understanding the significance of legacy and relationships. Jason shares insights on resilience in business, the impact of AI, and the necessity of humility in making tough decisions. The discussion highlights the evolving landscape of marketing and the importance of adapting to change while maintaining core values. You can find his book, available now on Amazon: https://a.co/d/geFGQtM
In this episode of the Mindset Growth Podcast, hosts Gary Bontrager and Ray Gage tackle the profound topic of forgiveness. They explore how forgiveness is not just a single act but a vital process for achieving personal peace and emotional freedom. The discussion covers the various people we may need to forgive—parents, past relationships, acquaintances, and most importantly, ourselves. Gary and Ray also address common misconceptions about forgiveness and highlight the importance of self-love in the healing journey. #Forgiveness #EmotionalFreedom #HealingJourney #SelfLove #PersonalPeace #ForgiveYourself #MisconceptionsAboutForgiveness #MindsetGrowthPodcast
In this episode of the Mindset Growth Podcast, host Gary Bontrager is joined by Ray Gage to explore how perception and belief systems influence our understanding of the world. They dive deep into how fragmented information can create misunderstandings and why context is key to grasping different viewpoints. The discussion highlights the flaws in perceptions, shaped by personal experiences, and the role of open dialogue in improving communication and fostering better relationships. Tune in to gain insights into enhancing empathy, listening skills, and building meaningful connections.
#Perception #BeliefSystems #EffectiveCommunication #Misunderstanding #PersonalExperience #OpenDialogue #Relationships #MindsetGrowthPodcast
In this episode of the Mindset Growth Podcast, host Gary Bontrager welcomes back Matt Stutzman, the armless archer and USA gold medalist. They discuss Matt's journey through the Olympics, focusing on the importance of mental preparation, crowd engagement, and strategies that contributed to his success. Matt shares insights on how he maintained a positive mindset, the significance of feeling at home in competition, and techniques for mental resets. The conversation culminates in reflections on his achievements and future plans in archery and racing. In this conversation, Matt shares his emotional journey of winning a gold medal in archery, emphasizing the importance of family and personal growth. He discusses the challenges he faced in his career, the significance of bonding with his family, and how his experiences have inspired others with disabilities. The conversation shifts to his new ventures in racing and his aspirations to give back to the sport of archery. Throughout, Matt highlights the mental resilience required to overcome self-doubt and the importance of finding hope in small victories. This is an episode you won't want to miss!
In this episode of the Mindset Growth Podcast, host Gary Bontrager and co-host Heather welcome Craig Schroeder, who shares his inspiring journey of resilience and hope following the loss of his son, Austin, to cancer. Craig discusses the importance of family, community support, and maintaining a positive attitude in the face of adversity. He reflects on Austin's journey, the impact of sports on their lives, and how they turned tragedy into a platform for helping others. The conversation emphasizes the power of hope, resilience, and the impact of community in navigating grief and loss.
Steve Acho, a self-taught musician and language enthusiast, shares his experiences and insights on language acquisition, cross-cultural communication, and effective learning methods. He emphasizes the importance of setting specific goals and simplifying complex tasks to achieve success. Steve also discusses his book on effective business communication with the Japanese and the need for understanding cultural differences. He highlights the value of being useful and finding unity in diverse perspectives. In this conversation, Steve Acho discusses how his background and curiosity about different cultures shaped his understanding and appreciation for diversity. He shares his experiences growing up in a diverse area of Detroit and how it influenced his perspective. Steve also talks about his motivation for writing books and giving keynote speeches, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and personal growth. He touches on the topic of AI and its impact on society, encouraging listeners to embrace technology and use it to improve their skills and achieve their goals. Takeaways: Setting specific goals and simplifying tasks can lead to efficient language acquisition and learning. Understanding cultural differences is crucial for effective cross-cultural communication. Being useful and finding unity in diverse perspectives can lead to personal and professional growth. Describing the job and focusing on what needs to be done is more effective than relying solely on qualifications and attributes. Understanding and appreciating different cultures can be shaped by one's background and upbringing. Continuous learning and curiosity are essential for personal growth and development. Embracing technology, such as AI, can help improve skills and achieve goals. Quality and adaptability are becoming increasingly important in the modern workforce.
Steve Acho, a self-taught musician and language enthusiast, shares his experiences and insights on language acquisition, cross-cultural communication, and effective learning methods. He emphasizes the importance of setting specific goals and simplifying complex tasks to achieve success. Steve also discusses his book on effective business communication with the Japanese and the need for understanding cultural differences. He highlights the value of being useful and finding unity in diverse perspectives. In this conversation, Steve Acho discusses how his background and curiosity about different cultures shaped his understanding and appreciation for diversity. He shares his experiences growing up in a diverse area of Detroit and how it influenced his perspective. Steve also talks about his motivation for writing books and giving keynote speeches, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and personal growth. He touches on the topic of AI and its impact on society, encouraging listeners to embrace technology and use it to improve their skills and achieve their goals.
Takeaways:
In this episode of the Mindset Growth Podcast, host Gary Bontrager is joined by co-host Ray Gage for a deep and introspective conversation about a transformative idea: "Life comes from you, not at you." Ray shares his expertise on this profound concept, guiding listeners through the importance of understanding how our internal perceptions shape our external realities. Together, Gary and Ray explore how our judgments and experiences influence our mindset, and how shifting our focus from receiving to giving can lead to a more fulfilling life. This episode challenges you to reevaluate how you view yourself and others, urging you to become a life-giver, not just a life-taker. Tune in for a discussion that promises to inspire personal growth and a fresh perspective on success.