Ballin' on a Budget

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we sit down with Kris Schaaf to hear about his incredible journey serving in the Army National Guard. Kris shares stories from his deployments, his experiences as a helicopter pilot, and the lessons he's learned through military service. From challenging missions to unforgettable moments in the cockpit, this conversation offers a fascinating look at life in uniform and the people behind the mission. Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat were you doing at 24? For Grant Swantek, the answer is "everything, everywhere." In this episode, we sit down with a young traveler who has already seen more of the globe than most do in a lifetime. Grant joins us to dive into the wild, unfiltered reality of life on the road—from the adrenaline of new adventures to the magic of making lifelong connections with total strangers in every corner of the world.Whether you’re looking for travel inspiration or just want to hear some mind-blowing stories that you'd think were made up.......when they're NOT, this episode has it all!Support the show

Send us Fan MailWe sat down with someone I grew up with, Adrian Kopejtka, who shares a story shaped by loss, resilience, and finding purpose in the most unexpected places.At just 11 years old, Adrian witnessed a devastating motorcycle accident involving his parents—an experience that resulted in the loss of his mother and changed everything in an instant. As the oldest of three, he opens up about the weight of that moment, and what it looked like to grow up while still trying to understand something so heavy.After high school, Adrian followed his passion into motorcycle mechanic school, graduating and searching for where he truly belonged—but nothing quite felt right. That search eventually led him to make a life-changing decision: joining the Navy.From there, his journey is nothing short of incredible. Through multiple deployments and rising through the ranks, Adrian shares what it’s been like to build a life rooted in discipline, growth, and service—including being aboard the ship where Osama bin Laden’s body was brought after his capture.Now living in Maryland with his dog, Rocko, Adrian reflects on how far he’s come, what he’s proud of, and the excitement he has for what’s still ahead.This is a story about grief, grit, and figuring it out one step at a time.Support the show

Send us Fan MailEver wonder what it's like to go from city streets to country roads? Our guest this week, Life of Will , knows that journey well! Originally from Philadelphia, Will now calls Nebraska home--and he's got stories for days about trucking pigs through the Midwest, adjusting to rural life, trying Chilli paired with cinnamon rolls for the first time, learning what Runza is and why you HAVE to get their ranch dressing with every order, and everything else in between. It's a genuine, funny, and eye-opening look at starting over in a whole new place. And what better place is there to do that in than "The Good Life!"Jacket and I both learned a lot, laughed a lot, and dropped our jaws at his stories A LOT! This was so much fun! Give him a follow on social media and listen here now! Support the show

Send us Fan MailThis week’s guest, Connor Oberhauser, opens up about his journey from battling suicidal thoughts as a teenager to surviving a suicide attempt that changed everything. Back then, he never felt good enough and lived with the weight of always thinking he was doing something wrong. Today, Connor holds a degree from Stanford University and is dedicated to showing others that they are never truly alone and that hope and help are always within reach.Tune in to hear Connor’s powerful story of struggle, resilience, and purpose.Support the show

Send us Fan Mail🚨 This week’s guest brings us a wild story straight out of Albion, Nebraska! We sat down with Dallas Choat, who survived one of the most bizarre farm accidents you’ll ever hear about. His last thought before blacking out (the first time) was: “So this is how I die.” 😳But Dallas didn’t just survive—he came back stronger. He’s also the owner of DC Seed and Chemical, LLC, and he gave us a behind-the-scenes look at the highs and lows of running his own business.Trust us, you don’t want to miss this one. 🎙️🔥Support the show

Send us Fan MailThis weeks guest was none other than Fullerton native, Goob Lane! We chit chatted about time spent on the county fair board, what it’s like owning and operating your own coffee truck, and a few more random things here and there as they got brought up. Oh and also-why everyone should count their blessings that Jacket never became a “carni.” Listen here now! Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this deeply personal episode, we sit down with 36-year-old Tina Macdonald, who opens up about her recent breast cancer diagnosis. She shares the emotional rollercoaster of learning about her condition, the impact it’s had on her life, and how she’s navigating the complexities of treatment. From processing the initial shock to finding support and strength in unexpected places, this conversation sheds light on the realities of facing cancer at a young age. Join us as we explore her journey of resilience, vulnerability, and hope.Support the show

Send us Fan MailThe man, the myth, the legend! This weeks guest, Ron Stock, FINALLY showed up to record a podcast episode with us! And what a great time we had! Join us to hear all about how Big Iron got started, a few other fun conversations, and a million random shout outs along the way! Support the show

Send us Fan MailJoin us to celebrate this newly certified Celebrant, Chase Cherry! Chase has been a Funeral Home Director at McKown Funeral Home for the last 6 years, but just recently passed the course to be a Celebrant! Don't know what that is? Neither did I! You can hear all about it in this episode with added bonus stories and a few other fun facts and "April Fools" jokes along the way! Listen here now! Support the show