Unturned Stones

Step into the gripping world of law enforcement with George Opelt, as he shares a lifetime's worth of experiences. His personal and professional saga is a testament to growth, resilience, and the relentless search for understanding. Uncover how formative relationships shape us, the humor in George's early career challenges, and the profound impact of critical incidents on a police officer's life.

Embark on a narrative that traverses the highs and lows of police work and the fundamental human experiences they intertwine with. George opens up about the camaraderie among officers, the emotional complexities of handling traumatic events, and the evolution from a rookie to a mature, confident individual. His story isn't just one of a man in uniform; it's about the bonds, the emotional milestones, and the personal development that resonate with all of us.

This episode is not just a peek behind the badge but also a broader exploration of male vulnerability, communication struggles, and the pursuit of mastery in high-stakes professions. George's narrative illustrates the multifaceted nature of law enforcement, from the intense pressures to the communal bonds that sustain those who serve. Tune in for an episode that not only paints a vivid portrait of a life in uniform but also delves into the universal challenges and triumphs that connect us all

In this episode we dive into Joe Wanner's life story, a narrative rich with Hawaiian heritage, familial bonds, and personal growth. Joe, eldest of six siblings, opens up about the complex interplay of cultural expectations, mental health challenges, and the relentless pursuit of success. From the basketball court to the corporate arena, Joe's experiences illuminate the strength and courage required to overcome adversity and the significance of emotional support throughout his journey.

Discover how Joe navigates the waters of cultural identity, the pressures of being the firstborn, and the transformative power of storytelling. His candid conversation with us is not just a reflection on his life's struggles and triumphs but also an invitation for listeners to introspect and find courage in their own paths. This episode is a testament to the resilience we can forge from our roots and the emotional triumphs that await when we embrace our vulnerabilities.

In this episode, I interview my friend, Ryan Baudhuin, a Marine Corps veteran and advocate for men's mental health, to discuss his personal growth and his journey of overcoming struggles. Ryan openly shares his experiences with substance abuse, PTSD, and how he found peace and purpose through hunting. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of a supportive community and the therapeutic power of nature.

What stands out in the conversation with Ryan is his candor. He brings to light, not just his struggle with alcoholism and eventual sobriety, but also his battle with PTSD. It's not every day that we meet someone willing to bear their soul as Ryan did. Delving deeper into his life, we discuss the joys and challenges of parenting, his encounter with grief, and his journey towards emotional maturity. Ryan shares insightful thoughts on handling cravings for alcohol, the importance of mindfulness, and the role of daily commitment to maintaining sobriety.

We also explore a range of topics in this episode. From the potential of psychedelics as medicines to the implications of globalization and cultural identity, we hope to provide a balanced perspective on these issues. Our discussion on traditional masculine roles, hunting, and the creation of brotherhood among veterans through hunting experiences is particularly enlightening. We wrap up with reflections on the power of discipline, the importance of staying present, and how every day presents a new opportunity for growth and self-improvement. Join us for this profound conversation and allow Ryan's journey to inspire you towards personal growth and resilience.

In this episode, I interview my friend Shaun Kopplin, who shares his compelling story of redemption and transformation. We journey through Shaun's tumultuous past, engaging in impactful discussions about his challenging relationship with his stepdad, his rebellious youth, his incarceration, and his eventual journey towards self-acceptance and success.

We uncover the stimulating world of powerlifting and the structure it brought to Shaun's life, offering him a sanctuary from the pressures of his past. Shaun openly discusses his felonies and his struggle with substance abuse, which didn’t deter his spirit. Instead, it fueled his determination to build something of his own, resulting in a successful roofing business and a respected place in the powerlifting community. We delve into the ways this discipline brought Shaun mental solace, a sense of self-worth, and a community that supported and inspired him.

In this episode, we dive into the journey of Nate Gorski, a man shaped by diverse experiences and life roles as a son, a husband, and a father. Nate shares with us the complexities of his family life like learning his father was not his biological father when he was young.

The conversation also delves into the challenges faced by veterans dealing with PTSD, highlighting the drastic shift from military to civilian life and the concept of trauma bonding.

We also dive into the topic of fatherhood, examining the differences between a mother-child and father-child bond, the challenges of parenting, and the wisdom that children can offer us. We wrap up with a reflection on the importance of embracing our inner child's power, reminding us of the beauty in simplicity and authenticity.

In this episode, I interview Josh Zurawski who opens up about his family dynamics, his childhood, and his personal struggles with mental health. We navigate through his life, dipping into his brother's addiction and loss, which paints a clear picture of the ripple effects that addiction and mental health issues can have on families.

This isn't just a story of addiction and loss; it's also a story of resilience and the power of familial bonds. Through Josh's eyes, we get to experience the process of healing, the importance of mental health awareness, and the struggle of balancing personal responsibilities with his inherent role as the oldest sibling in the family. He discusses his experience with anxiety and panic attacks, his family's grief, and how they came together in the face of adversity, proving that there's strength in vulnerability and unity.

As we close this heartfelt conversation, we touch on the importance of mental health awareness, volunteering, and providing a supportive and non-judgmental environment for those dealing with mental health issues. Josh sheds light on the need for open conversations around men's mental health and different coping mechanisms. His experiences and insights offer a stark reminder of the compassion and understanding required when dealing with mental health and addiction. Tune in, listen, and allow Josh's journey to enlighten and inspire you.

In this episode, I interview Joey Nielsen who pulls back the curtain on his life, complete with the ups and downs, joys, and struggles that have contributed to his personal growth. Raised amidst the hardworking ethos of North Central Iowa, Joey unpacks the unique family dynamics from his childhood, marked by his biological father's absence and the unwavering support of his mother and adoptive father. 

We explore Joey's adolescence, detailing his battles with mental health, and how these experiences shaped his relationships and communication skills. We'll also touch upon his intriguing journey with therapy, revealing how it led to significant personal growth, gave him insight into his coping mechanisms, and helped him understand the influence of his past on his relationships.

In this episode, I had the opportunity to sit down with personal trainer and owner of Winners Edge Gym , Kirk Remer, to explore his journey of personal growth and how his childhood experiences have shaped him. We dove into the importance of being open and honest in relationships, his passion for weightlifting, which began in his teenage years, and the mentors and coaches that guided him along the way. This discussion prompted reflection on Kirk's journey through college, the challenges he faced, and how he persevered to become the person he is today. In the final part of our conversation, we delve into Kirk's experiences with marriage and self-parenting, the importance of putting in the effort to ensure a successful relationship, and how his admiration for his wife has inspired him to continue learning and growing.

In this heartfelt episode, I interview my long-time friend Tory Dewalt. We reflect on our relationships with our fathers and our roles as older siblings, contemplating the lessons we've learned and how we can share them with younger generations. Our talk spans from the difficulties of frugality, shaped by our upbringings, to the appreciation of both the good and bad experiences in life. Don't miss this profound and insightful conversation as we explore the complexities of friendship, personal growth, and mental health.

In this episode, I interview my cousin-in-law, Jay Carpenter, who is currently a registered behavior technician working with autistic children while pursuing a graduate degree in clinical mental health. We dive into many great subjects such as cultivating self-awareness, self-esteem and social positioning, overcoming perfectionism, and the continuous path to self improvement. Jay's story is a powerful reminder that growth and self-improvement are ongoing processes requiring effort and momentum. Whether it's enhancing social skills in high school or taking actionable steps toward acceptance, Jay's experiences demonstrate that true change is possible.

In this episode, I interview Chris Mackenzie who has been the athletic trainer at Greendale High School for the past 23 years working with kids in all sports. Chris was the first person to speak openly about mental health with me and had a big impact on starting my own journey to dealing with mental health. We discuss some very vulnerable subjects around mental health in a marriage and the impact it can have. How stress can build and cause us to rely on ways to cope with it. As well as the evolving mental health of kids in school. 

In this episode, I interview my friend Dom Calvano who I have known for almost 10 years through Winners Edge gym. We discuss his transition to college and its effect on his mental health as well as the impact playing soccer had on his life. We also talk about Dom’s inclination towards awareness of his mental health and his desire to work on it.

In this episode, I talk more about the origin of this podcast and some of the events in my life that have lead me to this point. I dive into how I came to realizations regarding seeking validation, learning to let go of my ego and the important of meeting my wife.

In this episode, I interview my long time friend, Justin Quintero, for the first episode of Unturned Stones. We discuss a variety of topics revolving around mental health like the effect of his parent relationship on him in his younger years leading up to adulthood, men being vulnerable, expectations that society puts on men, and the inner voice that guides us through life.