Normal 40: The Podcast

It takes trust--an awkward amount of trust--to let things simply unfold before you. To let them play out, to see them untangle, to give them space, and to live in that moment, trusting it.This podcast is a conversation recorded from the streets in Quillabamba, Peru. Join Lon Stroschein on a transformative trek through the heart of Peru, where he is joined by a remarkable guide, Carlos...only 72 hours after meeting, but already a mountain of trust.Carlos shares a slice of life from the streets of Quillabamba to the emotional journey back to his family home, which he visited for the first time in ten years--the first time since his mom passed away. This story is about the courage to follow the path less traveled and the power of new friendships to change our lives.Venture with Lon to the Yanatile jungle, where Carlos's life story unfolds. From his childhood in Cusco to the life-altering decision to leave New York and return to his roots, Carlos's tale is one of deep cultural connections and the sacrifices made for his family. His commitment to preserving the Andean values and promoting responsible tourism alongside his partner, Laura Diaz, illustrates a life led by purpose and passion. This conversation touches on the emotional resonance of grief and the resilient spirit that leads to a profound appreciation of life. It culminates with the Gift of Stones, a symbol of the connections we make and the adventures that await.Tune in to experience Peru through the eyes of those who cherish its heritage and welcome you with open arms. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit normal40.substack.com/subscribe

Have you ever had a calling you could feel in your gut? Have you ever felt called to do something on a whim, and you weren't sure why? Have you ever cut through the irresponsibility of how it feels, and then chased the call simply to see where it goes? Have you ever carved out eight days, flown to a land where you don't speak the language, don't have an event, and don't have a friend to host you? Have you ever arrived alone, to a place where you don't speak the language, you don't have a hotel reservation, a car rented, or a driver to deliver you somewhere--anywhere? Have you ever followed a feeling and let it lead you unscripted? Well, two weeks ago, I hadn't either. I mean, really, who does that? Now I've done it. And I talk all about it here."There I was, with Carlos, a guy I hadn't known for more than 48 hours, deep in the Yanatile jungle, abandoned by our driver, and we were about to walk the last mile to the place where Carlos was born. A place where his aunt and uncle live. A place he hadn't been back to in ten years. A place he hadn't returned to since his mother died. And nobody knew we were coming -- they didn't have phone, internet or mail."Join Lon as he reconnects with Adam Eaton for a heartfelt discussion that charts his transformative travels through Peru. This dialogue weaves through the power of new experiences and the profound insights gained when one heeds the inner call to seek a life of fulfillment.Come with us into the heart of Peru's spiritual landscapes as Lon and Adam share the touching act of leaving a token of home at Machu Picchu, feeling connected with an ancient civilization.We explore the balance between the thrill of uncharted paths and the natural apprehension they evoke, highlighting the ongoing journey of self-discovery.We reflect on the beauty of unscripted adventure, the role of accountability in personal endeavors, and the nurturing of spousal support that facilitates these solitary quests for meaning.This episode isn't just about travel; it's about the transformation that comes with stepping outside the "normal 40" work week.Lon delves into the liberation experienced in the Yanatili jungle, detached from the usual demands of life, and discusses the universal relevance of such a break for self-improvement.Tune in for a dose of inspiration, and perhaps you'll find yourself ready to pursue the unscripted adventures that beckon.Do you want to connect with Lon personally or want to hang out with a few hundred of us as we talk about things like this (in The Insider)? Find it here: https://linktr.ee/lon.stroschein This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit normal40.substack.com/subscribe

Ever dreamed about quitting your job to chase a dream? Well, meet Dan Mayer. Dan Mayer is a seasoned sales expert who resigned from his VP position and is starting his own venture -- NEXT WEEK! This ramble offers a wealth of insights into this life-changing decision. Through his personal experiences, including family challenges, a Wrigley's Gum commercial, and a stand-up comedy stint, Dan articulates the delicate balance of pursuing dreams and fulfilling obligations, providing a roadmap for those contemplating a similar leap.Dan's journey underscores the importance of self-belief, the power of genuine connections, and the role of empathy in sales—a skill harnessed from his mother Denise. His candid sharing on redefining success and the magic of aligning one’s profession with personal values is bound to resonate with many.This conversation is more than just a story; it's a heartfelt invitation to join a community of dreamers and doers. This episode was recorded in September, only a few weeks after Dan resigned and before he had clarity on what was next. As we eagerly anticipate Dan's new business launch, we celebrate the essence of entrepreneurship and encourage all our listeners to support his venture.For anyone seeking to reconnect with their passion or redefine their career path, this episode is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability and the courage to pursue what truly matters.You can follow Dan Mayer here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dmmayer/ Learn more about Lon Stroschein here: https://linktr.ee/lon.stroschein This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit normal40.substack.com/subscribe

Who quits their job as an ER physician to be a middle school science teacher?Well, this guy.There's something magnetic about a story that breaks the mold, and Keith Pochick's leap from the corridors of the emergency room to the halls of a middle school does just that.Join Lon Stroschein as he sits down with Keith Pochick, whose life took an extraordinary turn when he traded his stethoscope for a teacher's marker. Keith shares his heartfelt transition from being a medical doctor to inspiring young minds as a middle school science teacher. His story is a testament to the courage and self-discovery required to follow one's passion, revealing the intricate ties between personal fulfillment and professional identity. Keith's insights give hope to anyone considering a bold career move, proving that it's never too late to reshape your path. Throughout this conversation, Lon and Keith navigate the complexities of making life-altering career shifts, particularly when it involves stepping away from a well-established role into the realm of the unknown. They discuss the psychological battles, the importance of aligning with personal values, and the delicate balance of family obligations and self-realization.This discussion is an intimate exploration of the internal conflicts that come with such a significant change, coupled with a vibrant reminder that the pursuit of change, while daunting, is essential for growth and personal satisfaction.Come along and be part of this inspiring narrative reaffirming the power of taking action toward the life you envision.You can follow Keith Pochick here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keith-pochick-md-92a664119/ Learn more about Lon Stroschein here: https://linktr.ee/lon.stroschein This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit normal40.substack.com/subscribe

Have you ever thought hiring a coach was a waste? Lon Stroschein did, until ... Join Lon as he sat (back) down with his first coach, Brendan Burns, to discuss his transformation from a public company executive to a lifestyle engineer and career coach on a mission to inspire others. This candid conversation touches on Lon's journey of leaving a successful career, the power of LinkedIn, the importance of taking action before you're ready, and how unexpected life events such as death, divorce, and mental health challenges have shaped us.Together, they share personal experiences and insights that offer valuable advice for listeners seeking to make changes in their lives -- while at the top of their game. Brendan shares his story of turning down a job opportunity in Europe to become a successful coach, and how that trade has shaped his life. Including his launch into podcasting with guests like Matthew McConaughey, Jack Canfield, and many others. This discussion underscores the significance of authenticity and overcoming perfectionism. Brendan's experience of transitioning from a successful career to starting his own coaching business will inspire those grappling with their fear of taking the first step.Listen in as Lon and Brendan tackle the conflict between ego and image, the impact of ego on our true selves, and how our desired image often stems from low self-esteem and a need for love and attention. They underscore the importance of embracing our true selves to find our purpose and fulfillment.This conversation encourages listeners to reflect on their own lives and make changes for a better future. Don't miss out on this empowering conversation.You can follow Brendan Burns here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendanhburns/ You can learn more about Lon Stroschein here: https://linktr.ee/lon.stroschein This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit normal40.substack.com/subscribe

As professionals, we can get so busy being important to those at work that we miss the cries for help happening around the home. That happened to Lon Stroschein when he missed the calls for help from his daughter, Grace. Learn how an actual call changed everything - for both of them. This is the personal story of Lon Stroschein, founder of the Normal 40 movement and the author of The Trade, and his daughter Grace.Lon shares his journey from being a public company executive to becoming a lifestyle engineer and how his path changed to lead to an inspiring and powerful connection with his daughter.Together, they recount their shared experiences, touching on subjects like mental health, setting boundaries, and coping when life throws you a curveball.This is audio from a podcast hosted by Heather and Amos Kittleson from the Fortitude Podcast (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fortitude/id1634313142), who share their perspective on Lon and Grace's story.The episode is filled with heartfelt moments, particularly as Lon and Grace navigate the struggles of mental health between dad and daughter, a topic that is often difficult to discuss but incredibly important.In the latter part of the episode, we tackle some of the darker aspects of their story, discussing how they dealt with Grace's suicidal thoughts and the crucial importance of seeking help.Lon and Grace's bravery in sharing their story provides a beacon of hope and underscores the significance of open communication within families. Join us as we explore their journey, a testament to the power of belief, the importance of setting boundaries, and the healing that can come from sharing our stories.Mental Health, Setting Boundaries, Life Changes, Belief, Support, Suicidal Thoughts, Seeking Help, Boundaries, Self-Blame, Open Communication, Family Dynamics, Courage, Hope, Sharing Stories, Strength, Heather Kittleson, Amos Kittleson, Fortitude Podcast, Normal 40, The Trade This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit normal40.substack.com/subscribe

Have you ever wondered how different your life could be in a year if there were no sunk costs to taking a bet on yourself?One year ago, Lon Stroschein started writing his book. This podcast was recorded in the recording studio in the moments before he started narrating his book, The Trade, for Audible.This is a conversation with his partner in Normal 40 Publishing, Jeremy Brown. In this podcast, you'll get to hear about the incredible journey of creating and publishing 'The Trade' and experience how it started changing lives before it was committed to paper.This episode serves as a powerful reminder that we should never underestimate the power we have to change our lives in a single year.This episode takes a closer look at the power of conversations in transformation and the formation and purpose of a book, and how it came together behind the scenes. You'll hear about the significance of asking the right questions and discovering the potential of our own voice, and how the mindset of a warrior can be used to create something extraordinary, and how our experiences can either use us or be used to help others.Finally, you'll be inspired by the journey of taking a pause in life to reflect and make changes. This episode is all about impacting lives, inspiring change, and making your dreams a reality. Join us for this incredible adventure. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit normal40.substack.com/subscribe

Do you find yourself constantly chasing work, stuck in a cycle of stress addiction, and yearning for a different life? You're not alone -- and I'm going to prove it.Meet Tim Klimchock, a one-time corporate executive and CPA, who mustered the courage to finally trade his W2 income for a chance at chasing something bigger. Tim shares the hardships he has faced since leaving a year ago and how he has used the "Normal 40 Insurance Policy" to re-evaluate his life and finances. We also talked about how work-related stress, sleepless nights, and health issues and how he combatted this through introspection and lifestyle changes.Tim also opens up about his transition into entrepreneurship, the mental shift that followed, and the importance of finding fulfillment in work after making "The Trade." He has traded being a corporate executive to all who pay, for the ability to be a consultant to a few he loves.This episode is more than just a tale of a career transition; it's a deep dive into personal growth, life choices, and the relentless pursuit of a meaningful life. It's the story of a guy who has done what you've been thinking about.Find more about Lon here: https://linktr.ee/lon.stroschein Find Time here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timklimchock/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit normal40.substack.com/subscribe

Austin is a dude I've never met. Before this podcast, I'd never heard Austin's voice and knew almost nothing of his story. But on a whim, we connected and recorded this episode. And, being honest, you won't believe where it goes.We talk about it all: Mental Health, Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Resilience, Transformation, Football Injury, Radio Commercial, Mount Air Iowa, Opioid Addiction, Career Paths, Anxiety Coping, Identity Change, Manufacturing Image, Friendships, Mental Health Challenges, Rock Bottom, Authenticity, Support, Normal 40 Highway and my book, The Trade.This is an incredible journey with our guest, Austin Moore, who opens up about his life-altering experiences and struggles. Austin shares the story of his life, from his humble beginnings on a farm, his Division I football career, and the injury that derailed it all. Listen as he shares how he battled addiction, despair, and suicidal thoughts and eventually found the courage -- a friend and a strand -- to ask for help and redefine his life. His story is a testament to resilience, proving that even in the darkest times, help is out there, and change is possible.Austin doesn't shy away from discussing his personal challenges in detail, providing an intimate look at the emotional and practical impacts of a career-ending injury, the anxiety he battled, and how he turned to alcohol to cope. Discover how he navigated his way out of the darkness, with help from an unexpected radio commercial and a dude named Matt, and how his transformation led him to a newfound purpose in life.Austin's story is a testament to the power of resilience and serves as a reminder that it's never too late to make a change.Conversations don't come along less scripted than this. But you'll leave here knowing a little more about Austin and a lot more about addiction and how you can show up for yourself -- and for others around you -- who might be going through it.You can connect with Austin here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austinmoore1/ You can learn more about Lon Stroschein and Normal40.com right here: https://linktr.ee/lon.stroschein This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit normal40.substack.com/subscribe

Have you ever wondered what it would take to leave the comfort of a six-figure income and a high-powered career behind, and set sail on the open seas? Chris and his wife, Renee, did just that! Living proof that it's possible to let go of the corporate world and its trappings for a simpler life, Chris shares how they traded a $500,000 a-year income for a $50,000 one to live aboard a 52-foot ship. Through this episode, Chris Schramm reveals his Normal 40 Moment and the series of events that led him to question the career path he was on. From managing the delicate balance of career and family to losing a job and handling the pressure of a demanding project, every experience nudged him closer to the realization that something had to change.Chris recounts the tumultuous transition from a high-flying executive to a full-time sailing captain. And trust me, it's not just about the sea and the wind in your hair; Chris also shares the hard realities of managing a 60,000-pound boat and the challenges that such an adventure presents.Chris's story is not just about a drastic life change; it's also about self-discovery and personal growth. It's about betting on yourself and living while you can.Together, we debunk misconceptions of trading successful careers for lives of adventure, stress the importance of health and preparedness, and offer insight for anyone considering a similar life transition. A testament to the power of courage, confidence, and curiosity, this conversation is bound to shift your perspective on life. So, come aboard as we set sail on this incredible life adventure.You can follow their life aboard their boat, The OCEANAIRE, here: https://www.instagram.com/sailing_the_oceanaire/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit normal40.substack.com/subscribe