2025 Year-End Recap: Taking Chances - Why Not You?What a remarkable year it's been for Taking Chances - Why Not You?! In 2025, we dropped 34 powerful episodes, each one a testament to the core message: bold moves, big dreams, and the courage to ask, "Why not me?"This year, we brought you an incredible lineup of guests who embody resilience, determination, and the art of betting on themselves. From the worlds of elite athletics to business and everyday heroism, our conversations highlighted what it truly takes to push limits while navigating real life.Highlights from Our Extraordinary Guests:Pro Athletes and Combat Legends: We sat down with UFC Hall of Famer Pat Miletich, diving into the mindset of a fighter who redefined grit in the octagon.

Ultra-Endurance Warriors: Stories from Ultra Running Champions, Backyard Ultra winners, Leadville Trail 100 finishers, and national record holders inspired us all to go further. A standout was Episode 19 with Phil Young – owner of Fleet Feet Davenport (one of America's top running stores) and holder of the 4th fastest 100-mile time in U.S. history. His blend of business savvy and blistering trail speed reminded us that excellence isn't limited to one arena.

Olympic-Level Achievers: Gold Medalists shared the sacrifices and triumphs behind standing on the podium. (Andy Yohe)

Business Titans: Leaders like Beth Jannery (Founder of Titan Strategic Communications) opened up about strategic risks, authentic leadership, and building legacies that impact industries.

Ordinary People Doing Amazing Things: The heart of our show shone through in episodes with everyday heroes – folks crushing massive goals while juggling demanding jobs, families, and life's curveballs. Transformations like Evan Kilstrom's journey to engineering and endurance, or Brian Doerfeld's reinvention through fitness and coaching, proved that extraordinary results start with everyday courage.

Across these 34 episodes, recurring themes emerged: mental health in high-stakes pursuits, balancing ambition with family, overcoming adversity, and the sheer power of discipline and self-belief. Whether it was tales from the trails of Tunnel Hill, the intensity of HYROX training, or rebuilding after setbacks, every guest left us with actionable inspiration. Thank you to our incredible guests for trusting us with your stories, and a massive shoutout to you – our listeners – for tuning in, sharing episodes, and taking your own chances. Your messages and feedback have fueled this journey. As we close out 2025, remember: Start that podcast. Write that book. Take the leap. Why not you?

Here's to an even bolder 2026. Keep taking chances!– Your host, John O'Brien

#TakingChances #WhyNotYou #UltraRunning #MentalHealth #GritAndGratitude

🎙️ Podcast "Welcome back to Taking Chances – Why Not You? I’m your host, John O’Brien, and today we’re diving into solo episode number three.

Recently, I listened to Ken Rideout’s new podcast where Rich Roll was his guest, and it got me thinking. People are often drawn to stories of those who’ve overcome addiction—whether it’s drugs, alcohol, or food—because those journeys are raw, powerful, and inspiring. But what about the rest of us? The so-called ‘ordinary’ people who’ve faced extraordinary challenges and still found a way forward?

For me, 2001 was that year. I lost my mom, lost my job, and got married—all within months. Three massive life events, two of them devastating, one of them life changing. And somehow, I survived. I found a way.

That’s what this podcast is becoming: a space to celebrate resilience, grit, and the everyday heroes who refuse to quit. Ordinary people doing extraordinary things—not because it was easy, but because they chose to find a way.

So let’s get started. This is Taking Chances – Why Not You? Episode three."

🎙️ S. Scott Anderson

Scott Anderson is a lifelong storyteller whose journey blends journalism, executive leadership, and a passion for history. An avid reader, student of the past, and global traveler, Anderson draws on real-world experiences to bring depth and authenticity to his characters and narratives.

Though his career path took him from journalism into the world of construction equipment, writing and photography have always been his true constants. Now retired, he devotes his energy to exploring automotive history, crafting creative fiction, and weaving historically inspired tales that are as unique as they are compelling.

Rooted in Tennessee, where his family has lived since the early 1700s, Anderson remains a voyager at heart—always seeking new horizons and opportunities. You’re most likely to spot him at historic car gatherings, tucked away in small vineyards, or immersed in history shows, continuing his lifelong pursuit of stories worth telling.

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Scott-Boys-Novel-Inspired-Actual/dp/1663273553

Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-scott-boys-s-scott-anderson/1147711487

iUniverse: https://www.iuniverse.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/863188-the-scott-boys

website: sscottanderson.com

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