In this meaningful episode of Answers from the Stairs , Jim Sabellico shares his journey of discovering purpose, shifting perspective, and choosing a life built on service and impact. From breaking unhealthy patterns to stepping fully into a calling, Jim opens up about the decisions and disciplines that have shaped who he is today. 00:00 Intro: Setting the tone for a conversation about meaning, mindset, and momentum. 10:35 Jim’s Calling: How a clear sense of purpose changed the direction of Jim’s life and leadership. 20:21 Breaking Lifestyle Habits: The internal battles we face when letting go of what no longer serves us. 30:00 Service and Value: Why pouring into others creates the deepest fulfillment. 40:50 Personal Impact: Reflecting on legacy, influence, and the ripple effect of living with intention. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about building a life that not only succeeds—but truly matters.…

In this powerful episode of Answers from the Stairs , Robert Frehafer joins the show to explore what it truly means to lead, protect, and guide others through trust, integrity, and long-term vision. From the weight of decision-making to the responsibility of leadership, Robert shares the lessons he’s learned through his unique journey of guardianship—both personal and professional. Minute Markers: 00:00 Intro: Setting the stage for a conversation on leadership, trust, and stewardship. 10:26 Manipulating Trust: How trust can be built—or broken—and why intentions matter in leadership. 20:30 Impactful Decisions: Navigating high-stakes choices that affect lives, legacies, and the future. 30:40 Guardian of the People: The role of a leader as a protector and advocate for those they serve. 40:08 The View from 30,000 Feet: Gaining perspective, seeing the big picture, and leading with wisdom beyond the moment. Join us as we unpack the depth of what it means to be a guardian—of people, purpose, and principle—and how that guidance shapes lives far beyond our own.…

In this special episode of Answers from the Stairs , Chris sits down with his daughter, Avery Vester, just days before one of life’s biggest moments—her wedding. With honesty, warmth, and reflection, they explore the milestones that shape us, the lessons learned along the way, and the beauty found in stepping into the next chapter. 00:00 Intro: A father-daughter moment before the walk down the aisle—celebrating life, love, and what comes next. 10:06 Working Experience: How early professional moments shaped Avery’s mindset, growth, and resilience. 20:10 The Art in the Unknown: Embracing uncertainty and learning to trust the journey—especially in seasons of transition. 30:00 Adulting: What it really means to step into adulthood, build a life, and carry forward the lessons of family and faith. Join us for a heartfelt conversation that honors legacy, love, and the turning points that define who we are becoming.…

In this thought-provoking episode of Answers from the Stairs , we sit down with culture expert and thought leader Jay Doran to unpack the powerful relationship between personal identity, leadership, and organizational culture. Through raw conversation and real-life insight, Jay shares how our values, upbringing, and mindset shape not only who we are—but the environments we create. 00:00 Intro: Introducing Jay Doran and setting the stage for a conversation on identity and impact. 10:20 Fatherly Advice: How foundational wisdom shapes character, confidence, and core values. 20:35 Training for Growth: The importance of self-development and intentional learning as a lifelong discipline. 30:50 The Business Mindset: Shifting your perspective to lead, build, and think with clarity and purpose. 40:10 The Identity of Your Culture: Why your culture reflects your identity—and how to build one that truly matters. Tune in for an episode that challenges conventional thinking, inspires intentional leadership, and offers a roadmap for cultivating culture with depth and authenticity.…

In this powerful episode of Answers from the Stairs , Rob Dayton joins the conversation to discuss the weight of executive decisions—both in business and in life. From trusting your instincts to rediscovering identity, this discussion dives into the challenges and triumphs that come with making high-stakes choices. 00:00 Intro: Setting the stage for a deep dive into leadership, purpose, and faith-driven decisions. 10:45 Following Your Heart: The balance between intuition, logic, and making decisions that align with your values. 21:15 Natural God-Given Talent: Recognizing and embracing the unique gifts that set you apart. 30:20 Lost Identity: What happens when your sense of self is shaken, and how to find your way back. 30:50 The Incredible Image: Seeing yourself through a different lens and embracing the full picture of who you are. Join us as we explore the journey of leadership, faith, and self-discovery with Rob Dayton, uncovering the lessons that come with making executive decisions in all aspects of life.…

In this insightful episode of Answers from the Stairs , Brian Hess joins the conversation to break down the power of resilience, perspective, and the lessons life throws our way. From overcoming challenges to embracing unexpected wisdom, we explore what it means to truly "catch and land" the experiences that shape us. Minute Markers: 00:00 Intro: Setting the stage for a conversation on learning, adapting, and growing through life’s experiences. 10:14 Don’t Judge a Book by Its Cover: How first impressions can be deceiving and why looking deeper matters. 20:20 Too Much to Bear: Facing adversity head-on and discovering strength in the struggle. 30:15 The Lessons You Catch: Recognizing the wisdom in every experience and applying it to move forward. Tune in as we explore the moments that test us, teach us, and ultimately shape who we become.…

In this episode of Answers from the Stairs , we welcome Todd Smith to explore the dynamic journey of personal and professional growth—comparing it to the art of surfing life’s waves. Todd shares his experiences, insights, and hard-earned lessons on navigating the highs and lows of success with resilience and purpose. [10:20] Get Deep into Yourself – Todd discusses the importance of self-awareness and inner work as the foundation for long-term growth. [20:54] Riding Mountains – Just like in surfing, some waves are bigger than others. Todd shares how he’s tackled challenges and made the most of life’s biggest opportunities. [30:15] Professional Behavior – The mindset and habits that separate those who struggle from those who thrive in business and life. [43:25] Lessons Learned – A deep dive into the key takeaways from Todd’s journey—both the wins and the setbacks. [50:35] Timing is Everything – Understanding when to push forward, when to wait, and how to recognize the right moments for action. [1:00:53] Leading from the Back – Leadership isn’t always about being in front. Todd shares why supporting and elevating others is crucial to success. [1:10:29] Driving Your Future – Taking control of your path, making intentional decisions, and steering toward your goals. [1:20:30] Leaving a Legacy – The lasting impact of our actions, choices, and the way we show up for others. Join us for a powerful conversation that will inspire you to ride the waves of growth with confidence and purpose.…

In this episode of Answers From The Stairs , host Chris Vester sits down with Scott Gunnel for an insightful conversation about education, curiosity, and the lessons learned through both triumph and adversity. 🔹 00:00 – Intro Chris introduces Scott Gunnel and sets the stage for a deep dive into his experiences and perspectives. 🔹 10:33 – Educational Work Experience Scott shares how his journey through education and hands-on work experience shaped his approach to business, leadership, and problem-solving. 🔹 20:50 – The Aspect of Curiosity Curiosity isn’t just a personality trait—it’s a powerful tool. Scott discusses how staying curious has driven his success and allowed him to continue growing both personally and professionally. 🔹 30:19 – “Some of the best lessons are learned in the moments of defeat.” Scott reflects on the challenges he’s faced and the valuable lessons that came from failure, emphasizing how setbacks can lead to some of the most transformative insights. 🔹 40:19 – Inspiration and Growth The conversation wraps up with an inspiring discussion on personal growth, resilience, and the mindset needed to keep climbing, no matter the obstacles. Tune in for a thought-provoking episode filled with wisdom and practical takeaways from Scott Gunnel’s journey! 🚀 🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!…

On this final episode of Answers from the Stairs, Chris talks about his year-long journey of making his inspirational videos, finding time to make them, and what motivated him to start in the first place. Topics include evaluating our own daily habits and routines, how to adapt and keep a healthy morning routine, expanding your exposure to information, why stimulating both physical and mental development is important, and how to tune out your inner enemy. Key points:Why Chris made the decision to share his morning routine The idea of your "inner me" being an enemy when you start to listen to the negative thoughtsMake a commitment to yourself and those around you How to increase personal development in small ways The importance of making commitments based on the time you have Please let me know your thoughts! Connect with Chris Vester:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvautocoo/?hl=enYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4L3dj__KZQNGR24jravoWALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-vester-6546a6a6Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gymboundLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

This week's episode of Answers from the Stairs is a special compilation of Chris's most important messages and guidance. Chris talks about how conflict is necessary, personal development as a team activity, and his experiences with this and bringing people together. This is important in order to build accountability and transparency within your team or community. Once the individual team members are working on themselves, they can also come together to create something even greater. Key points:The idea of "constructive conflict" handling tension and spreading unityThe importance of experiencing and dealing with conflict/confrontationHow both individuals and their affiliated teams benefit from self-awareness and discipline The importance of building accountability and transparency within your team or community Please let me know your thoughts! Connect with Chris Vester:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvautocoo/?hl=enYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4L3dj__KZQNGR24jravoWALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-vester-6546a6a6Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gymboundLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

In this episode, Chris talks about On this week's episode, Chris talks about the real reason people train. Sometimes, there is no competition or show. Completing challenges for ourselves with the goal of keeping a routine while also maintaining physical and mental health, also gives us a heightened sense of mental gain and being able to overcome any obstacles that life may throw at us. Key points:Why training is more than just strengthening your body Train like no one's watching, and compete with yourself firstHow training and completing challenges helps us build stronger mindsets and achievable routines The heightened sense of mental gain when it comes to being able to train yourself and overcome difficult obstacles Please let me know your thoughts! Connect with Chris Vester:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvautocoo/?hl=enYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4L3dj__KZQNGR24jravoWALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-vester-6546a6a6Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gymboundLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

In this episode, Chris talks about the book, "Ready, Fire, Aim", and how humans as a whole are either hoarders or sharers. This changes how we view the universe, the other people in our lives, and our contributions to society. Always make sure you're treating others how you want to be treated. There's plenty of wealth and kindness to go around. Key points:Human's either view the universe as not connected or constantly expanding Hoarders think their job is to accumulate wealth and competition Sharers think the more they put out, the more they get back Following "The Golden Rule" versus "The Rule of Gold" How you view the universe will be the way you view everything Please let me know your thoughts! Connect with Chris Vester:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvautocoo/?hl=enYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4L3dj__KZQNGR24jravoWALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-vester-6546a6a6Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gymboundLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

In this episode, Chris talks about an idea that is not discussed enough among leaders; the thoughts of "I don't have time to be down" or "I'm not allowed to be depressed". Even leaders in an organization or community can have self-doubts. At these times, it's important to remember to stay vulnerable because you may have more in common with others than you think. Key points:Most times, we are just seeing the highlights or accomplishments of successful people's lives; never their strugglesSources of self-doubt, depression and feelings of unworthiness are common; sometimes they last for a season or just a dayDon't be afraid to get vulnerable with others There's pressure in making the right decision all of the time Being someone in an important position does not make one immune to negative feelings of emotion Please let me know your thoughts! Connect with Chris Vester:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvautocoo/?hl=enYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4L3dj__KZQNGR24jravoWALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-vester-6546a6a6Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gymboundLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

Grow, Contribute, RepeatIn this week's episode, inspired by a podcast interview with Fallon Taylor, Chris talks about personally growing and contributing as a leader. Sometimes the accomplishment isn't the most impressive; but the determination to continue finding sources for growth. Having a service mindset is part of our core values as human beings. Key points:Finding sources of growing faith through relationship and business developmentsThe reason we want to grow is to further contribute to our communities The more you grow, the bigger your contributions will get People in your organizations should have a passion to servePlease let me know your thoughts! Connect with Chris Vester:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvautocoo/?hl=enYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4L3dj__KZQNGR24jravoWALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-vester-6546a6a6Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gymboundLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

In this episode, Chris talks about differentiating commitments from the strategies used to achieve said goals/commitments. If you're not achieving your goals as you want, look at where you feel short. Was it in the goal or the strategy? Key points: People are prone to be "married to the goal, but dating the strategy" Most times, we're committed to a certain goal we want and that's all we see Don't let your strategy become negotiable just because you're uncomfortableFocus on pushing yourself to reach your end goal, though the work may be rough, it will be worth itStay committed daily in both your personal and business lives, as it will take you farther than you may think Please let me know your thoughts! Connect with Chris Vester:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvautocoo/?hl=enYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4L3dj__KZQNGR24jravoWALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-vester-6546a6a6Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gymboundLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…