Rising Above Podcast

Join us on Rising Above Podcast as we sit down with Kent Nelson, martial arts master and passionate owner of KSK Martial Arts Studio. From teaching in his garage to building a legacy, Kent shares the gritty early days, costly business mistakes, and the resilience that shaped his journey. As a parent of KSK students, I’ve seen firsthand how Kent’s classes instill discipline, strength, and perseverance in kids and adults alike. Don’t...

In this powerful episode of the Rising Above Podcast, host David Hess sits down with Noah Ballard, owner and CEO of Ballard Ferrier Service, to dive into the world of professional horse care and hoof maintenance. Noah shares what it really takes to succeed in the farrier industry, the challenges he's faced, and how he's built a thriving business.

This episode also explores the growing presence and impact of women in the ferrier tra...

Join Host David Hess and Co-Host Coach Tony as they sit down with Dr. Becky Natrajan, a retired gastroenterologist turned GI Health and Life Coach. In each episode, Dr. Becky shares her expertise on the life-changing benefits of safe, high-end nutritional products and cutting-edge nutritional approaches. Discover how to support your microbiome, optimize brain chemistry, strengthen your immune system, balance your endocrine system, ...

In this video, David and Coach Tony break down five essential talking points for setting the right mindset in your fitness journey and beyond. Learn how to align your goals and stay motivated with these key principles: Your Why: Discover the power of knowing your purpose and using it to fuel your motivation. Pros and Cons: Understand the importance of weighing both the benefits and challenges of your goals. Having the Right Profess...

Step into the compelling narrative of Ed Gangi's extraordinary life journey on the Rising Above Podcast. As a child of the Baby Scoop Era, Ed's adoption story is a blend of secrecy, resilience, and unexpected revelations. Delve into his experiences as he unravels the enigma surrounding his birth, uncovering a tale intertwined with fame, secrecy, and unexpected connections. In this heartfelt episode, Ed shares his remarkable journey...

Join us on this electrifying episode of the Rising Above Podcast as we explore the dynamic world of Capital City Comic Con with local entrepreneur Tim Hunt at the helm. Discover why Capital City Comic Con has earned its reputation as Michigan's ultimate summer comic convention, boasting an extensive array of exhibitor booths, special guests, artists, vendors, and more. Tim reveals the meticulous curation process behind the event's ...

Join us on the Rising Above Podcast as we delve into the innovative world of accessibility with Evan Winters, Co-Founder & Vice President of Able Eyes. Discover how Able Eyes is revolutionizing the landscape for individuals with disabilities by providing cutting-edge experiences and teaching tools. Explore their mission to make cities, businesses, and public venues more accessible through virtual walk-through tours, ensuring in...

Join us on the latest episode of the Rising Above Podcast as we sit down with the multi-talented producer, rap artist, and A&R, G'sta. With a new album on the horizon, G'sta shares insights into his creative process and his remarkable journey in the music industry. From collaborating with influential producers like Swizz Beatz, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, and Afeni Shakur, to reestablishing New Orleans on the hip-hop map, G'sta's sto...

Step into the world of R Town Snacks, where passion meets innovation in every delectable bite. I had the privilege to sit down with the visionary minds behind this local gem, and their story is as inspiring as their mouthwatering creations.

Discover how their journey began, fueled by a shared love for exceptional taste and a desire to elevate the chocolate experience. From humble beginnings to a thriving enterprise, the...

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with Lisa Roland & Nini Champion as they recount their epic voyage, rowing 3,000 miles across the vast Atlantic Ocean. Setting a world record, they courageously took on this challenge to help raise funds for individuals in need. Delve into the highs and lows of their remarkable journey, and witness how their mission extends beyond rowing as they strive to uplift others. Learn about the impac...

Join host David Hess as he sits down with Eric Johnson, a remarkable individual who has defied the odds and risen above his darkest struggles. In this inspiring episode, Eric candidly shares his journey from hitting rock bottom, weighed down by depression and over 500 pounds of physical and emotional burden, to reclaiming his life and purpose. Through heartfelt reflection and unwavering faith, Eric unveils the transformative steps ...

In this episode of the Rising Above Podcast, host David Hess engages in a delightful conversation with Autumn Weston, the fourth-generation owner of Kewpee's, a true Lansing novelty for over a century. Dive into the rich history of Kewpee's, a cherished burger joint that has been serving up Lansing's iconic Olive Burgers for generations. Autumn shares the origins of Kewpee's and the unique challenges faced by this historic establis...

Join us in this insightful episode as we sit down with Daniel Kantor, founder of the Hardcore Dojo - a basketball skill development program. From growing his venture in a new city to striking a balance between fatherhood and his passion for basketball, Kantor opens up about his thrilling journey. He sheds light on managing corporate sponsorships in his role at the Lansing Lugnuts, his innovative approach to basketball training for ...

Join David and Sarge in a powerful and candid live interview with special guest Sammy Vona on the Rising Above Podcast. In this vulnerable episode, Sammy opens up about his life's tumultuous journey, sharing how alcohol and drugs led him down a destructive path that ultimately resulted in a life-altering moment — being shot and losing his vision.

Sammy reflects on the profound realization that losing his sight was the catalyst for ...

In this compelling episode of the Rising Above Podcast, we sit down with Chris Murphy, the incredible host of The Weighting Table, who bravely and publicly shares his awe-inspiring journey of shedding nearly 300 pounds. Join us as Chris takes us through the highs and lows of his transformation, delving into the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of his weight loss. Discover the power of resilience, motivation, and community su...

Step into the inspiring world of Frances Fomai as she joins David on the Rising Above Podcast for a captivating conversation that transcends the boundaries of physical struggle, the formation of new habits, and the profound shift in thinking that leads to transformative change.

In this engaging episode, Frances shares her deeply personal journey of navigating the rugged path of parenting, loss, and self-discovery, echoing the theme...