Rich Conversations

070. Giannis Bucks the American Trend

Rich shares his thoughts on our favorite hero, Giannis Antetokounmpo will continue his journey in Milwaukee and the great state of Wisconsin, signing the supermax extension for an additional five years at $228 million.

The value Giannis brings far exceeds the basketball court. How do you define, in financial terms, the inspiration he provides on a personal level or communicating Midwest values to the rest of the world?

What we want from our leaders is the courage to live their lives true to themselves and to stand for what they believe in rather than what's easiest. The future is as bright as we make it.

069. Photography, Creativity, and Learning with David Rakauskas

Photographer David Rakauskas joins the show and discusses self-learning, trial and error, the mindset of an artist, and living with confidence.

David talks about how he started as a photographer and the steps he took to where he is now. Humbling oneself and going beyond the self-consciousness we often experience with something new while others are ahead. Self-learning through trial and error and YouTube University

(17:25) The photography projects he's working on and would like to pursue.

(21:50) David's artistic inspirations and influences. How he uses music to visualize his work and life. Jimmy Marbles, Harry Styles, Tyler the Creator, and Frank Ocean. How being yourself breeds confidence.

(31:00) How going on long drives provides an escape but also stimulates his imagination. Long drives throughout Wisconsin to see the uniqueness of areas, which builds connections with these places. Not only is it fun but inspires moments of self-realization.

(41:07) The mind of an artist. Using art to learn more about yourself, people around you, and the world.

Follow David @DaveMartinStudios

 

068. Survival Lessons from Life of Pi

There's a tiger in each of us. After reading "Life of Pi" by Yann Martel, Rich reflects on what he can apply to his own life in a time of survival and intensity. What is most important?

067. Green Bay Packers and the Standard of Excellence

Instead of being held accountable by a billionaire owner, the Green Bay Packers strive for a standard of excellence set by themselves and the fanbase. A team of self-motivated high character players with good habits can compete against anyone. Why not do that in our own lives? What would happen if we also held ourselves to a standard of excellence?

066. Learning about Mexico with Felipe Hernandez

Felipe Hernandez shares his experience living Mexico and moving to the United States, music influences, and how life can become happier through effort.

(9:42) Felipe discusses authentic Mexican food and the difference between Mexico City and area surrounding it. 

(18:03) Felipe and Rich talk about work ethic.

(23:37) Felipe shares his favorite music: punk, metal, and The Beatles.

(31:50) The impact of Mexican cartels and corrupt governments.

(39:00) Felipe shares what he's learning from life through reflection and effort to live happier and deepen meaningful relationships.

 

065. Communication Makes the World Go Round

Communication can be as big as the world or as small as yourself. It's not a tangible skill but if get good at it, it can strengthen your relationships with your family, neighbors, and community. All these lead to a better life and who doesn't want a better life?

064. Playing Moneyball to Win at Life

"Moneyball" by Michael Lewis can be applied to own own lives. Society defines what success looks like. Most people chase that. But by defining what winning looks like to us, we can combine unique data and our skills to win big. 

063. Unplugging to see the Light

Rich and his creative partner, Ken Ferguson, unplugged Tuesday morning and don't know the results of election. It would be interesting to see how long it'd take for the news to reach them.

Rich reflects on a morning conversation with Ken about the importance of purpose after reading "The Death of Ivan Ilych" by Leo Tolstoy.

Unplugging allowed for more intentional use of time. On an evening walk, Rich wonders if we'll ever be able to vividly see the Big Dipper again standing in Chicago.

You can also watch the video on YouTube.

 

062. The Spiritual Leadership of Phil Jackson

Phil Jackson brought spirituality to the NBA. He challenged the status quo and won 11 NBA titles coaching the Chicago Bulls and LA Lakers. He combined his personality, philosophy and beliefs, and background to coach his own way. He introduced mindfulness and meditation to basketball.

Phil Jackson wrote Sacred Hoops in 1995. Rich read all his books, but this is where to start. Phil guides you through his leadership and coaching philosophy. His background as a Zen Christian and influence of the Lakota Native American tribe growing up in Montana.

Reading this book inspired Rich to practice meditation and taught how it can be a valuable part of life. Phil Jackson is a great of example of applying influences to something that on the surface doesn't appear have a connection. And then win.

 

061. Exploring Montana with Steph Burda

Steph Burda shares her experience growing up and moving back to Montana after living in Chicago. Embracing technology with remote capability.

(5:13) What she loves most about Montana.

(10:15) The difference of cultures among regional cities. The allure of Montana's space, solitude, and conservation to young Americans.

(13:15) The sportsmen culture within the state. The variety of outdoor activities, including hunting. What it was like for Steph to grow up in a family of hunters.

(21:11) What makes Montana more special than its neighbors.

(31:27) Steph shares her passion for writing. The spaces and environments she prefers.

(33:20) The colors of Montana. The upcoming six months of winter and fire seasons experienced in the mountain region. Her experience working on a ranch as a teenager that helped develop the work ethic she has today.

(39.25) The sounds and music of Montana.

(50:25) The importance of understanding rural Americans, their ambitions, and their ability to achieve goals using alternative methods.

You can follow Steph Burda: @rightbrainranch