BeTempered Episode 44 - 'No Excuses': Lessons from the Farm to Instagram with @Bushel_Billy
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BeTempered hosts Dan Schmidt and Ben Spahr sit down with Bill Bowers, better known as @Bushel_Billy on Instagram, for an unfiltered conversation about grit, family, and refusing to make excuses.
Growing up on a western Ohio farm in the 1980s, Bill developed a relentless work ethic where tasks weren’t considered chores—they were simply "what the family did." His journey from an awkward kid who “couldn’t run” to a college football captain proves his core philosophy: success is about determination, not natural talent.
Bill’s career path is just as unconventional—he’s been a farm kid, MBA graduate (while working as a bouncer), international consultant, and agricultural specialist focused on the top 20% of customers driving 80% of business. His leadership lessons are equally compelling, especially the moment when he learned firsthand that barking orders isn’t leadership—it’s earned through action and respect.
Beyond business, Bill shares his philosophy on family leadership, describing his three-part role as “priest, prophet, and king” of his household. His parenting approach—giving his kids tasks with clear outcomes but no instructions—challenges modern micromanagement. And when discussing faith through adversity, his reminder that “the most common thing stolen is what could have been” is a powerful warning against letting fear hold us back.
Whether you’re in agriculture or just looking for a no-nonsense take on resilience and purpose, this conversation will challenge your excuses and inspire action. Follow Bill’s agricultural journey on Instagram: @Bushel_Billy.
Chapters
1. BeTempered Episode 44 - 'No Excuses': Lessons from the Farm to Instagram with @Bushel_Billy (00:00:00)
2. Introduction to Bill Bauer (00:00:50)
3. Growing Up on the Farm (00:03:28)
4. Education and Career Evolution (00:14:44)
5. Leadership Lessons and Family Values (00:25:27)
6. Raising Children with Purpose (00:37:09)
7. The Story Behind Bushel Billy (00:51:33)
8. Faith, Failure, and Moving Forward (00:55:03)
59 episodes