Life Story: Recent Episodes
Tyler Hoenig
Growing up as an only child, I always wanted to make friends, meet new people, and learn about who they are. Over my life, I have been honored to meet so many fun, caring, and fascinating people that have lived incredible lives! This podcast allows me to delve into the highs and lows of my guests’ lives and find out what lead them to who they are today and share their amazing stories with all of you!
On this episode, Tyler invites an old friend from his summer as a campus tour guide, Cassidy, to the show. Cassidy shares about life growing up moving between her mom and dad and how sports helped her make friends and stay active. Tyler and Cassidy discuss their love of staying organized, ISU, and the future of higher education. They also discuss life during and after the pandemic.
Bari’s the Lead Host this week to discuss everyone’s favorite super hero flick, Madame Web, with Tyler and Kyle. If you were confused about the movie, believe us, we were too! Also, major spoiler alert….Jaso Will Return!
Welcome to Part 2 of the Spotlight/Life Story crossover! On this episode, Tyler invites Elijah to the show to continue the conversations they started on his podcast and delve deeper into his life’s story. Elijah discusses his family dynamics growing up and how that has shaped him into who he is today. He shares what his relationship was like with his twin brother and the YouTube channel they started together. Finally, Elijah explains why he started his podcast and what his hopes are for the future! Check out the Spotlight podcast here - https://open.spotify.com/show/4eEa7zaNA1YHhmUNxzo4fw
Elise is back and this time around we’re discussing our favorite passion projects! From running, to podcasting, to cooking, find out about why we do the things we do. We also discuss if there is a difference between passion projects vs. hobbies and if you can make yourself your own passion project. Finally, check out Elise’s doggy nephew’s instagram page scooby_blu3 so you can say you knew him before he was famous!
On this episode, Kyle, Bari, and Tyler return after a semi hiatus (There hasn’t been a lot of superhero projects being released) to discuss all the Easter eggs from the newest Deadpool and Wolverine trailer. They discuss the new big bad, the boatload of cameos, and what their hopes and dreams are. Kyle recently received his new Marvel/Star Wars Disney+ Blu-ray steel-books and shares his initial thoughts. Finally, Bari announces that she will be running the 2024 Chicago Marathon! Please follow the link to learn more about her cause and consider donating - https://teamdiabetes-diabetes.donordrive.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.participant&participantID=32556
On this episode, Tyler invites actor, director, and personal trainer, Annie, to the show to talk about growing up in small town Illinois, how she knew from a young age that she would be both a princess and an actress, and the feeling of going back home. Annie shares her journey through acting and how she has honed her skills via her experiences at Marquette and LAMDA…leading to her staring in a one woman show. Finally, we discuss physical fitness, bucket lists, and hula hooping! No doubt, we’ll be seeing Annie’s name in lights one day!
On this episode, Tyler welcomes back Life Story’s first ever guest, Michael Kuster, to discuss his Denver move…just shy of hitting his 3 year mark. Michael shares how he decided when the right time to move was, the journey to get there, and what life has been like living with our friend, Nate! Michael also talks about friends he’s made, new hobbies he has picked up, and shares some advice for making that first big move.
This week, Tyler, Bari, and Kyle discuss Marvel’s first Spotlight project. The three talk representation, thoughts on the incredible cast, and the comic book lore Echo is based upon. Plus, enjoy bonus content as the hosts discuss the recently released trailer for Deadpool 3!
Continuing on with the theme of Season 3, Tyler invites back fan favorite (And who has the most shared episode) Elise to the show to discuss the differences between blood family and found family! We’ll call this one the name dropper episode, because Tyler quotes many familiar guests from episodes past when talking about the reasons, seasons, and forevers of friendship. Elise explains how she continues to keep friends in her life and builds community wherever she goes. They address how friends become family, how teachers play a part in building connections, and what tv shows best exemplify family. If you’re looking for some great banter, you’ve picked the right episode!
Welcome to Season 3 of Life Story! This season we’ll be welcoming back some favorite guests of shows past to talk about the moments that made them and changed them. To start us off, Tyler welcomes back Bailey Olson to discuss her and her husband’s road to parenthood after losing their daughter, Mia, during pregnancy, due to a partial molar. Bailey shares the experiences she went through and the resources she found along the way. She also explains the differences from her second pregnancy that led to her giving birth to her son, Rory! Now, Bailey wants to be a resource to new parents and is currently training to be a doula.
On this episode, Tyler invites an old friend from high school, Brittany, to the show to talk about her life and reconnect after seven years of not seeing each other. Brittany describes growing up in San Antonio and Wisconsin before moving to the Quad Cities. She shares how a childhood bully pushed her to learn Taekwondo and that those lessons have stuck with her and given her confidence. Tyler and Brittany reminisce about high school and their time as trumpet players. Finally, Brittany shares about her time in the Navy, meeting her husband, and having their first child.
Back to the OG three this episode as we close the book on the DCEU. Listen to our thoughts on the few positive aspects of the movie, find out what scene Kyle’s friend worked on, and, if you want to start a drinking game, try to keep track of how many times Jaso says the f-bomb throughout the show. Happy 2024!
Join the hosts as they share their thoughts on Tom Hiddleston’s swan song as his character, Loki! The group discuss their views on new and old characters, A.I. love, time travel, and that series finale. Be ready for more episodes of The Super Film Club in 2024!
We’ve gone from a trio to a quartet with the addition of Bari as a full-time co-host! It’s safe to say the cohosts were split down the middle on their views of the movie, but be prepared for some great debates about hopes, dreams, and fears for the MCU’s future. And we promise, no musical sequences!
On this episode, Tyler invites Dennis to the show to discuss his life’s story, which encompassed 65 different jobs, including being a dairy farmer, mail carrier, a merry-go-round operator at the Santa Monica Peer, a professor at Pepperdine University, and a novelist. Also, hear him share about his time in the Amazon and how he met his wife.
Tyler and Kyle are down one host for this mini episode of the Super Film Club discussing the mini episodes that are season 2 of I Am Groot! Listen to Kyle and Tyler discuss the shocking similarities between season one and two and what their favorite episodes and moments were.
Join Tyler, Jaso, and Kyle as they welcome special guest co-host Bari Pearlman to talk about each of their top five favorite MCU movies!
On this episode, the hosts talk about a non-super hero property with Star Wars: Ahsoka! Here the hosts comment on their likes and dislikes of these characters transitioning from animation to live action, while sharing some of the Star Wars lore along the way!
If you enjoyed her husband Brad’s episode, then you’re going love hearing the life story of Leah! Leah shares about growing up in small town Iowa and her relationship with her little brother. She also shares her experience with braces and how that led her to winning best smile in high school! She gives her side to a few of Brad’s stories and talks about working at the movie theater together. Leah explains why she loves working in higher ed and getting to go to school forever! We also discuss her three incredible daughters and the amazing community that she has built for herself! Please note, that we do discuss the topic of suicide, which may be triggering for some audience members.
Enjoy a special “short” episode where Kyle, Jaso, and Tyler discuss their top three favorite animated movies, with some honorable mentions.
On this episode, Tyler invites his former boss, and friend, Brad to the show to discuss his love of all things sports! Two major things that they share in common are both being only children and their love of Star Wars. Find out how he met his now wife, Leah, his journey to and through higher education, and what life is like as a “Girl Dad” to his three kiddos. The theme for this episode is persistence pays off!
On this episode, Tyler invites his friend and co-worker, Andrew to the show! Andrew shares life growing up in a small town community, friendships he has made, and rising above the bullies in life. He explains how having asthma did not stop him from taking part in sporting events or learning musical instruments. Finally, Andrew describes how his experiences in college and previous positions have helped make him a great advisor and advocate for his students and Peer Mentors.
This may be a shorter episode, but it’s because Jaso, Kyle, and Tyler could only find good things to say about this movie! Special bonus content, hear the guys talk about their go-to movie treats. If you’re interested in following us on Letterboxd, find us by our handles tfhoenig (Tyler), Klwilson22 (Kyle), and Kuagr (Jaso).
Join Jaso, Kyle, and Tyler as they discuss the most recent Disney+ show….specifically what they hoped it would be and what they ended up with. In a show about shapeshifters, who can you trust?
On this episode, Tyler chats with Bari, the final NYC roommate in the trio of Anna and Elise! Bari and Tyler discuss how she grew up doing and trying so many activities, participating in neighborhood block parties, and her relationship with her older brother. They talk about how friends come in and out of our lives and what to look for in a good group of friends. Bari also shares her love for Star Wars, Marvel, and mythology! Finally, Bari explains how she made her big movie to New York and met her soul dog, Lou!
Find out what Jaso, Kyle, and Tyler really thought of the movie that’s supposed to reboot the DC Extended Universe. They address cameos, CGI, and where things can go from here.
Jaso, Kyle, and Tyler share their love of the newest, and greatest, Spider-Man movie, as they discuss the animation, voice acting, and what things they hope to see in Beyond the Spider-Verse. As a bonus, learn the best way to watch the film as all the hosts viewed it in different formats - Standard, Dolby, or IMAX.
On this episode, Tyler invites fellow Bettendorf High alumni, Michael, to discuss growing up through the Bettendorf School System and how they both got involved in different clubs and organizations, specifically when Michael co-hosted the Variety Show. Michael discusses how he was the first student to take part in WWE Superstar Seth Rollins’ Black and Brave Wrestling Academy. He describes how he came up with the persona of Connor Braxton and performed in matches all across the United States. He shares how COVID effected an opportunity with WWE but through his connections, he got to take part in WrestleMania 39 by walking out Dominik Mysterio and meeting Snoop Dog. He currently is training to be a police officer. I apologize that there is some feedback throughout the episode.
On this special episode of Life Story, Tyler talks with one of his best friends, Maggie Bell, about the books that effected her life’s story, what they meant to her, and what was going on in her life when she was reading them. We discuss her bookstagram- @maggiesmoodreads - and how that has opened up doors to meeting some of her favorite authors and receiving free books. Finally, Maggie describes the history of her favorite book genre, Dark Academia.
Jaso, Kyle, and Tyler break down the final chapter in the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy as they address hot takes, new characters, and where things go from here. As a bonus, enjoy hearing the hosts’ share their favorite and least favorite MCU trilogies.
On this episode, Tyler invites his friend, Tina, to the show for lots of laughs about times they were on tv and all of the volunteer and trivia teams they are on. Tina describes being in D.C. during 9/11 and what that day was like for her. Finally, we end by hearing about all of the fun things she did on her recent trip to Egypt.
We’re back! Join Kyle, Jaso, and Tyler as they review all of the MCU/Disney+ shows, to date: WandaVision, Falcon and the Winter Solider, Loki, What If…, Hawkeye, Moon Knight, Ms. Marvel, and She-Hulk: Attorney at Law. As always, spoilers are aplenty.
On this episode, Tyler invites one of the coolest people that he met on his trip to NYC, Elise, to the show. Elise describes her childhood growing up in Dallas with her older sister and her time performing Irish Dance, before getting into running! She explains her journey of getting into the University of Texas and what that school means to her and her family. Finally, she describes how she moved to NYC, met our mutual friend, Anna, and endeavors to enjoy all the little victories in life…one pancake at a time!!
On this episode, Tyler invites his friend, Holly, to the show to talk about growing up as the oldest of four kids and the sixth oldest of thirty-six grandkids. Holly shares that the family was so big that they’d rent out the nearby church for holiday gatherings! Holly describes her love of Iowa State, traveling, and theater. She also explains how she got to be an extra in a movie, while traveling in college, and how the movie theater she was working at threw her a red carpet event for it’s opening.
On this episode, Tyler invites his friend and former co-worker, Susan, to the show! Susan starts off with describing, for the first time, I might add, her nearly year-long trip across the United States of America. She shares stories of the stops and the people she met or reconnected with along the way. She also reminisces about being the oldest of four, how she got the title of “Coach Norris”, and how life is a collage. Be prepared to laugh!
Life Story presents this back door pilot for The Super Film Club, a new podcast reviewing both Marvel and DC movies and tv shows. Tyler is joined in this new endeavor by Kyle Wilson and John Jaso. Enjoy hearing about the highs and lows of the film, as well as learning more about the MCU’s next big bad, Kang the Conqueror.
On this episode, Tyler invites his friend, Melissa, to the show to share her love of live theater and animals. Melissa describes how birthdays were always a huge event growing up and that she was involved in almost every activity you could be a part of in high school. She explains the path that lead her from being an elementary school teacher to vet tech school and how working with animals has become her true passion in life. Please volunteer and adopt from your local shelters.
In this episode, Tyler does his first check in episode by inviting Donato to come back and share all of the amazing things he’s done, since they last chatted. Donato describes his transition to St Louis, buying his first apartment complex, and working for the Department of Defense. Mainly, Donato discussed his new company, BrightInvestor, and how he hopes it will make finding and buying real estate so much easier.
On this episode, Tyler invites fellow Cyclone and Red Raider alum, Ashley, to the show, to discuss their individual experiences and how both campuses have changed. Ashley describes a childhood straight out of an 80’s movie of riding bike’s with friends until the streetlights turned off and having her dog, Gracie, in tow. Tyler and Ashley also share stories of all the pets they had growing up and Tyler learns not to get a chinchilla wet! She describes how friendships, injuries, and not being afraid of change taught her so many life skills. Finally, Ashley shares how she builds community and why it is so important.
On this episode, Tyler’s friend, Scott, videos in from sunny Florida to reminisce about college days. Scott shares how soccer was an incredibly huge part of his childhood, both to make strong friendships and to bond with his dad. He describes how he met his wife, Allison, and about their first big move to Wichita, together. Finally, Scott and Tyler discuss life after the pandemic and how he is finally getting to live out a lifelong dream.
On this episode, Tyler invites another member of the Bettendorf Gang, Allie, to the podcast! Allie talks about her early years of growing up in Kansas, near many of her extended family members, and summers going to her grandparents’ lake house. She describes how her mom’s daycare and her experiences during elementary school led her to wanting to become an early childhood educator. Finally, Allie describes her college years at Iowa State University, getting to room with her best friend, Rimu, for three years, and spending a semester in Hawaii. The theme of this episode is determination and to follow your passions, no matter the obstacle.
On this episode, one of Tyler’s Student Affairs mentors, Jesus, joins the show. Jesus explains his childhood moving from Mexico, to California, and finally to Iowa and how his close knit family made all of the moves together! Jesus describes the relationships he had growing up with his cousins, mom, and grandmother (Tyler and Jesus take time to share how important both their grandmothers were in there lives). He talks about how he picked up new instruments very quickly, learning to play clarinet, drums, and trombone each during entire summer breaks. He shares how taking time to talk to college recruiters got him his associates paid for, got him to apply to the University of Northern Iowa, and got him one of his jobs at Iowa State. This episode was especially fun as Tyler and Jesus talked about what qualities make up a true friend.
On this episode, one of Tyler’s greatest mentors, Nathan, joins the podcast to talk about their shared experiences of growing up in the Quad Cities and working within higher education. Nathan shares growing up with his close-knit group of friends, how holidays looked a little different after his parents both became pastors, and how losing his perfect school attendance was worth it to get the picture of a lifetime. Nathan describes his transitions through undergrad, to grad school, and into professional life, with all of the many experiences, for good and for bad, that they brought. The main lesson of this episode is that life is truly short, so enjoy time with family and doing what you love.
On this episode, Tyler invites one of his greatest mentors, Stan, to the show to discuss the transition of growing up on a small farm in Iowa to traveling to over 50 countries and 49 of the 50 states. Stan shares about moving away from home for college, starting his first career as a special education teacher, and then jumping into the world of accounting, where he worked for the newly formed Iowa State Lottery, before starting on at IBM. Finally, Stan explains how theater and being involved in the community has given him immense life skills and shaped who he is today.
On this episode, Tyler invites a fellow Bettendorf High alum, John, to the podcast to discuss his life, post-high school, and all of his successful ventures. John shares about being incredibly involved in grade school and even being student body President. He talks about how his love of bodybuilding began and what going to the gym and fitness mean to him. Finally, John shares about the many mentors he has had in his life, how they lead him to being an entrepreneur, especially with real estate, and the traveling opportunities that these ventures provided. Warning that there are a few moments that are choppy due to a bad connection.
Welcome to Season 2 of Life Story! On this episode, Tyler invites one of his best friends and former roommate from his days at Iowa State, Joey (With a short cameo from his dad), to start this season off. Joey explains how anyone who shares his last name has to, in some way, be related to him because it was created on Ellis Island. Joey shares the love he has for his tight-knit family and how family dinners are still a cornerstone of their week. He talks about how his real life super power is that he can make friends with anyone and that no ones going to complain about a party if everyone is invited to it. Finally, Joey and Tyler discuss why they think comic book heroes continue to stand the test of time. If you enjoyed season one, you’ll love what’s in store for season two!
On this episode, one of Tyler’s favorite former supervisors, Marie-Louise, joins the podcast to discuss their time at Texas Tech and working together during the start of the pandemic. Marie-Louise describes growing up in Louisiana with her three siblings and how soccer was a huge part of her life all the way through college. She shares how working at her aunts’ bakery allowed her to help them win $10,000 on the tv show Ultimate Cake-Off! Marie-Louise explains how she met her husband, Steve, in college, how they began dating right before she left for grad school, and then how he proposed on that following Christmas Eve! Finally, after a few moves around the state of Texas, Marie-Louise and Steve have now settled down in Austin with their newborn, Jolie!
On this episode, Tyler’s friend Olivia stops by to catch up and talk about joining the world of adulting! We reminisce about bumping into each other in high school and how we went to the same high school and college, but only attended those schools for two academic years together. Olivia discusses her relationships with her parents and siblings and how she never felt like she had one-true childhood home. Olivia shares how she fell in love with all things fine arts, started training her operatic voice, and discovered the differences between toxic and positive friendships. Finally, we touched on her favorite globetrotting travels and how she is preparing for graduate school.
On this episode of Life Story, Tyler’s friend Jaclyn videos in to discuss growing up as only children and how you have to find fun hobbies and activities, like reading and video games, to entertain yourself. Jaclyn shares about being close to most of her family in Arkansas and how her mom and dad’s sides of the family would all get together for holidays. She describes how she joined her sorority, Tri-Sigma, and went from an addiction studies undergrad to working for five years at Texas Tech as a Residence Life Coordinator. Finally, Tyler and Jaclyn discuss their experiences during the pandemic and how much they learned and grew from their experiences.
On this episode, we celebrate our 25th Episode of Life Story with guest host Anna Fobair! Anna interviews the show’s regular host Tyler about his life story of growing up as an only child and how family has played such an important part in his story. He shares fond memories in grade school, spending time with his grandparents, memorable jobs, and all of the people he’s met along the way. Finally, Tyler and Anna discuss losing family members and how those experiences make you grow and change.
On this episode, Tyler’s friend Nate joins the podcast and discusses learning he was adopted and what life had been like with his biological parents. He also describes his relationship with his adoptive parents. Nate explains how he was naturally good at sports from a young age and how weightlifting has become a big part of his life. He shares how he grew immensely during his time at college, how he almost joined the marines, and his eventual journey out to Denver.
On this episode, Tyler travels to Denver, Colorado to interview his long time friend, Nate. The two reminisce about high school days and being a part of The Music Man. Nate discusses growing up with his mom and how she continues to be his biggest supporter. Nate talks about the short time he lived in Florida and how that started his love for theater. Finally, Nate touches on his time at the University of Iowa, moving to Colorado and the transition that was, and how he and our friend Michael moved into their new apartment together. Warning: We filmed outside and there are moments when you can hear cars go by.
On this episode, did you know that Tyler is not the only person who is on every episode of Life Story? Well, today, we welcome the performer behind the show’s theme song, Kristoffer Poole! Kris describes being the youngest of four and all of the fun they had playing in their neighborhood court as kids, going to birthday parties, and playing board games. Tyler and Kris reminisce about high school days and all of the activities they were a part of. Kris shares his adventures in Germany, post high school, and why American peanut butter does not taste the same on German bread. Finally, Kris discusses his experiences with mental health struggles and religion.
Cheers to episode 21 as Tyler’s friend Jacob joins him for a toast and to tell his life story! Jacob shares about growing up and taking on the role of being the man of the house for his mom and three brothers in Cedar Rapids, IA. He describes his love of school and about how his teachers became some of his greatest mentors and advocates in life. Jacob and Tyler discuss their love of Pokémon, how they both went to college to be high school English teachers, only to switch to higher education, and all things spicy foods. Finally, Jacob explains how music has shaped his life and how it all began when his dad gave him his first guitar.
On this episode, Tyler welcomes his first celebrity guest and long-time pen pal Mary to the show. Mary has authored over 75 novels including her two series the Emma Lord /Alpine Mysteries and the Bed & Breakfast Murder Mysteries. Mary discusses how she came up with the ideas for these stories and why she believes people have gravitated to them over the years. Mary describes her family history, both past and present, and shares fun stories of growing up with her cousin, Judy. Mary shares how she was not a fan of elementary school or club sports, but did try to learn the piano. Finally, Mary tells how she met her husband and what books she is currently working on.
On this episode, Tyler and one of his mentors, Katie, were finally able to sit down for an interview after multiple cancellations. Katie discussed growing up as a non-Mormon in Salt Lake City and how her small, tight-knit family and Girl Scouts helped instill many life skills and her passion for giving back to the community. Katie talks about how the University of Utah was the last place on her mind for college, but ended being one of the greatest decisions of her life! She describes how she creating a brand new program at Ball State University, while completing her masters degree within a year. Finally, Katie shares how she met her husband, Tim, and where she sees her life heading in the next few years. Fair warning, you’re in for some fun stories and many laughs!!
On this episode, Tyler’s friend John Jaso drops by the podcast to talk about the chronicle that is his life’s story. He describes growing up outside of Chicago and how he learned to be self reliant due to his parents’ work schedules. He shares how he discovered his love of video games, WWE, and comic books and how he met his best group of friends in second grade. Jaso talks about school bullies and how after joining wrestling in high school, he became the nerdy jock. Finally, Jaso shares his journey throughout higher education, ultimately, why he loves this field, and where he sees himself in the future.
On this episode, one of Tyler’s new co-workers and friend, Micho, joins the podcast to share their incredible story! Micho describes life growing up in an abusive household and how the cycle of abuse followed them through a good part of their life. But, through a love and passion for art at an early age, Micho discovered so much about themselves which lead them to graduating as a Summa Cum Laude first generation student and continuing on to a masters degree. After leaving two bad marriages, Micho met their partner Jocelyn and have settled down in Iowa with their wonderfully blended family!
On this episode, be prepared for a lot of laughs (and maybe some backhanded compliments) as Ashley Kurtz takes time away from the Texas Tech reunion to talk about her life. Ashley describes the joys of growing up as a California girl, getting to go to the beaches, meeting celebrities, and testing out rides at Disneyland, thanks to her dad working security there. Ashley talks about her relationship with her siblings and their menagerie of pets. Ashley also explains how she became interested in higher education thanks to the support she received from staff members during a very difficult time in college and how she wants to be a resource that students can come to. Finally, Ashley and Tyler reminisce about the many vacations they want on in grad school as well as the summer Ashley spent in London.
On this episode, one of Tyler’s best friends from childhood, Trevor, joins the podcast to get each other caught up on life since they last saw each other 10 years ago. Trevor describes life growing up as the son of a pastor and being the oldest of three boys who share the same initials of TLC. Tyler and Trevor reminisce about how they met and middle school days around the lunch table and being avid readers, especially of the Hunger Games! Trevor speaks on his family’s difficult move from Iowa to Missouri after his freshmen year of high school, but that it prepared him to go on to college and that friends come and go for good and for bad. During college, Trevor got to travel to many different countries and shares his journey of self discovery and becoming a member of the queer community. Finally, Trevor explains what he hopes to do in his new job to prevent further climate change!
On this episode, the “Ty”ler H.’s of Texas Tech reconnect to share their favorite memories of grad school and how hitting the campus’ lazy river was always the best way to relax! Ty also shares memories of growing up in a religious household, while going to school in a predominately white community. Ty reminisces about how being involved in multiple student organizations, including the marching band and working at Old Navy, shaped his undergraduate experience and the work that he does today! Finally, Ty shares the three categories of friendships: Reasons, Seasons, & Lifetime.
On this episode, Tyler gets a chance to catch up with his friend Ceara to laugh about many marching band memories! Ceara discusses how her parents made holidays and birthdays so incredibly fun growing up for her and her three other sisters and how her dad convinced her that the White Sox were shooting off fireworks after the game just because it was her birthday! Ceara describes how softball changed her life and introduced her to so many incredible mentors and coaches. Finally, Ceara and Tyler discuss how to avoid getting stuck in the rut of being associated by only one aspect of their lives.
On this episode, Tyler’s friend Xiomar videos in for a lot of college reminiscing about crazy work situations, getting free furniture, and how Xiomar got away with never having to pay for a single drink at the bars! Xiomar shares life growing up in Baltimore with his two brothers and how education and sports came pretty naturally to him. The two talk about their favorite holiday memories and Xiomar shares how his family didn’t celebrate Halloween. Finally, he describes how he chose Iowa State University, but his major chose him.
On this episode, Tyler invited his friends Alec and Bailey Olson to join the show together to talk about not only their life stories, but their love story! Alec and Bailey lived only a few doors down from each other growing up and in fourth grade Alec gave Bailey a note saying he liked her! After dating throughout the roller coaster that is middle and high school, they decided to go to Iowa State University together where they eventually got engaged! The two also describe their differing experiences during grade school and how being Community Advisors was the best part of college. The common theme of this episode is that no matter the issue in life everything ends up working out for the best in the end!
On this episode, one of Tyler’s mentors, Kyle, stops by to chat about Disney, Nintendo, and how music has been a huge part of their lives. Kyle shares all of the states that he has lived and how his job has allowed him to move back to some favorite locations. Kyle describes how music was his whole life growing up and it even helped him to meet his wife, Lauren! Finally, he explains why he loves working in conduct and being a resource to students during difficult situations.
On this episode, Tyler’s friend Brandon stops in to share many memories of growing up in a predominately black community before moving to a predominately white community and how that shaped some of his views and memories as a kid. Brandon explains how band was a huge part of middle and high school and all of the many friends he met along the way. He and Tyler also discuss their mutual love for Iowa State and how their connections brought them to Texas Tech and got them involved in higher education!
On this episode, Tyler’s friend Anna joins the podcast to share a lot of laughs and fun memories! Anna describes some of her memories of living in China before being adopted and moving to the United States. She also shares how amazing it was that her best friend growing up in China, Lauren, was adopted by a family only minutes away from her new home in Iowa and how they have kept their friendship going strong! Anna explains how being a part of dance, cross country, and choir allowed her to meet so many friends growing up. Finally, she describes how her experiences in college and her sorority helped her land her first professional position in New York and getting to work with companies such as Tide and IKEA!
On this episode, Tyler’s friend Matt and he get a chance to reconnect since their high school days. Matt describes his strong bonds with his two sisters and how the love of basketball has helped them all connect. He shares stories of mentors that have helped him learn pivotal life skills and how he wants to impart those skills on the students and clients he works with in his ministry, basketball team, and financial planning practice. Finally, Matt shares about how faith has always been a driving force in his life and how he has used his faith to give back by volunteering at a school for the deaf in Jamaica.
On this episode, Tyler’s friend Max joins him to discuss how imagination played an important part in his childhood. Max describes how theater helped him meet new friends, grow his confidence, develop new skills, and helped expand his socialite status. He shares his coming out story and how he knew when the right time to come out was. Finally, Tyler and Max explain their dreams of being voice actors and why they think villains are always the most well-rounded characters in pop culture.
On this episode, Tyler’s friend Elizabeth FaceTimes in for the first virtual interview of Life Story from her apartment in St. Paul. Elizabeth talks about her differing friend groups over the years and how gymnastics lead to a collegiate career in diving. Elizabeth and Tyler also describe their relationship with religion. Finally, Elizabeth explains how, even through adversity, she learned a lot of life skills and personal beliefs through her first few post-college jobs and how friendships and community will always be the most important thing in her life.
On this episode, Tyler’s friend Rimu stops by the podcast allowing them to get to reminisce about their long time friendship. Rimu shares many childhood memories about growing up in India such as her school’s uniforms, favorite treats, and travels to visit her grandparents in the mountains, which sparked her love of hiking. Rimu discusses her families transition to America, making friends through high school show choir, and how being a Community Advisor shaped her college experience. Finally, Rimu shared how the COVID-19 pandemic allowed her to bond with her fiancé, as they worked remotely, traveling to multiple states around the U.S.
On this episode, Tyler’s friend Donato joins the podcast from his pool house on a rainy afternoon! Donato discusses how the two met as ensemble men in The Music Man and how he dressed as Super Mario for a middle school dance. He chronicles his fitness journey, receiving the SMART Scholarship, and how traveling to Washington DC, Montana, and South Africa shaped his college experience. Finally, Donato discusses how he hopes his passion for real estate will continue to create new contacts and opportunities in his future.
On this episode, Tyler’s friend Caitlin joins the podcast after they finished moving her into her first house! Caitlin shares about growing up in a tight knit community and the strong bonds she shares with her family, especially her grandmother. She shares stories of being involved in almost every club, sport, and organization her high school offered and how those lessons helped shape the bonds and passions she discovered in college. Finally, Caitlin spoke of some of the most influential mentors she had in grad school.
On this episode, Tyler’s best friend of seventeen years, Michael Kuster, comes to visit and talks about his life as the youngest of three and how he rose above being bullied in elementary school. Michael shares how being a part of marching band, his church, and getting his first job helped him develop confidence and make life long friends. Finally, Michael describes how he hopes his passion for photography will continue to open up new opportunities in his future. All that and he tells the secret to making a McDonalds pizza!