The Beard Winner

Patience isn’t always about sitting around and waiting for something to happen. Sometimes it’s continuing to show up when the results aren’t visible yet. Sometimes it’s another person seeing potential in you long before you’re ready to see it yourself. And sometimes it’s realizing you’ve been so focused on what’s coming next that you’ve forgotten to experience the season you’re already in.

In Episode 37 of The Beard Winner Podcast, I explore what patience has been teaching me through my health and fitness journey, personal growth, finances, relationsh...

In this episode of The Beard Winner Podcast, I talk about what it means to keep moving forward when life feels uncertain, unclear, and emotionally heavy.

After trying twice to record an episode about healing and loss, I realized I wasn’t ready to speak from the other side of that experience yet. So instead of forcing a lesson I’m still learning, this episode became about something more honest: navigating life when you can’t see very far ahead.

Using the morning fog on my drive to the gym as a metaphor, I refl...

What if lasting transformation wasn't about making one giant leap—but about making one small decision today?

In Episode 35 of The Beard Winner Podcast, Darin explores the power of becoming one percent better every single day. Real growth isn't found in overnight success or dramatic life changes. It's built through the quiet, consistent choices we make when no one else is watching.

From getting out of a warm bed when comfort tells you to stay put, to choosing prayer before scrolling social media, reading one more chapter, lifting a little heavier, or...

What happens when you stop asking, "What's next?" and start asking, "What's now?"

In this deeply personal episode of The Beard Winner Podcast, Darin shares the powerful lessons that emerged from a recent ketamine-assisted therapy session an experience that brought clarity, peace, and a renewed perspective on healing, faith, and personal growth.

Through vivid imagery of flowing rivers, galaxies, light, and water, Darin explores what it means to surrender control, release the weight of past relationships, and trust that even life's greatest obstacles can be navigated one step at a time.

...

Sometimes life places us exactly where we're meant to be—and we don't realize it until later.

In Episode 33 of the Beard Winner Podcast, I share a deeply personal story about witnessing a car accident and the unexpected opportunity to encourage a young driver during what was likely one of the hardest moments of his life. What began as an ordinary Saturday of working out, visiting a local brewery, and spending time with friends quickly turned into a reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can leave a lasting impact.

Af...

What if the things we call "goodbyes" are really just "see you laters?"

In Episode 32 of the Beard Winner Podcast, Darin reflects on how perspective can completely change the way we experience endings. Coming off America's 250th birthday celebration, he shares why the Fourth of July no longer represents the beginning of the end of summer, but instead serves as a reminder to stay present, embrace the weeks still ahead, and resist the anxiety of living too far into the future.

This episode explores the people who enter and leave our lives, the...

In this vulnerable episode of The Beard Winner Podcast, Darin explores the difficult balance between anxiety, depression, productivity, and the pressure we place on ourselves to have everything figured out.

Anxiety often lives in the future—worrying about what could happen, whether we're doing enough, and what lies ahead. Depression frequently keeps us rooted in the past—replaying mistakes, regrets, and moments we wish we could change. So how do we thread the needle between the two?

This episode dives into the challenge of staying productive and motivated without overloading ourselves to the point of burn...

Episode 30 of The Beard Winner Podcast is here, and this milestone episode arrives at a unique moment as America prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary.

In this episode, I reflect on the storms of spring—both the severe weather we've experienced across the Midwest and the personal challenges that can leave us feeling uprooted. From uncertainty and change to growth and resilience, life often mirrors the seasons around us.

As we move into summer and look ahead to Independence Day, I share thoughts on fresh starts, maintaining a positive mindset, and finding hope even when li...

In this episode of The Beard Winner Podcast, Darin dives into the reality of personal growth, relationships, and navigating life’s tougher seasons. “Mending the Broken & Navigating Change” explores what it looks like to recognize when something in your life isn’t working—and the discipline it takes to face it head-on. From relationship dynamics and intimacy to self-awareness and accountability, this episode is about doing the hard work instead of avoiding it. If you’ve been feeling stuck, conflicted, or challenged by change, this conversation offers a real, grounded perspective on growth that isn’t always easy—but is always worth it...

The remainder of Fall and the Holidays passed by so swiftly, it makes it hard to not have your head spinning by the time confetti canons and fireworks go off accompanied by Happy New Year.

We cannot slow things down. We do our best to enjoy and savor the moments. Life just has a way of moving forward at its own clip. Whimsical with how long it is perceived to pass by. It can drag when waiting, but gone in an instant when reflecting upon it.

In this episode, I reflect...

Summer is behind us and fall is fully here—leaves are turning, crops are cut, and spooky season is in full swing. In this episode, I reflect on how the changing seasons can mirror our own opportunities for growth. While it’s tempting to settle into comfort and cozy routines, this time of year can also serve as a powerful reminder: change is always on the horizon. Do we get comfortable and coast? Sure—if that’s what we truly need. But if we feel the itch to grow, reflect, or shift direction, now is the time. Don’t let the eerie...

In this episode of the Beard Winner Podcast, we reflect on the end of summer and explore simple ways to improve your life, relationships, and daily interactions. Inspired by Dale Carnegie’s timeless principles, discover one actionable change that can create a big impact.

In this heartfelt pre–Fourth of July episode, I pick up where Homage to the Memories left off—shifting from quiet remembrance to fireworks, fire pits, and fleeting moments of celebration.' I talk about making the most of June—traveling to Decorah, Iowa with my girlfriend, grilling out, sitting around the fire, and soaking in the early summer before it slips away. The Fourth always feels like a peak... and a turning point. It’s a moment of joy, but also a reminder that seasons shift quickly. I reflect on freedom—both as a national value and a deeply personal j...

In this reflective episode of The Beard Winner Podcast, Darin takes a heartfelt pause to honor the moments, memories, and milestones that shape us. From celebrating the quiet strength of mothers, to honoring the legacy of those no longer with us on Memorial Day, to reflecting on fatherhood in all its forms — this episode is a slow, steady walk through the emotional beats of late spring and early summer. With Father’s Day approaching and America’s birthday on the horizon, Darin explores what it means to remember, to feel, and to grow. This isn’t about hustle — it’s about heart...

In this episode of The Beard Winner, I return to the mic after some time away to catch you up on what’s been going on—and how focusing on mental health helped me navigate some of the toughest times of my life. I talk candidly about adversity, resilience, and the importance of letting your story fuel your growth instead of define your limits. You'll also hear about what’s coming next: thoughts on the state of the craft beer industry (and a possible future guest), upcoming goalsfor 2025–2026, and a renewed commitment to action over intention. If you’ve ever struggled...

Making mental health a priority today for a better tomorrow.

How alive and well is craft beer? Could it really be dead?

The long anticipated reboot of the Beard Winner Podcast!

Have you ever wanted to create content and wondered what goes into it? Has content creation been a goal of yours and need some inspiration to get started? Well, if you answered yes to either of those questions this episode is for you! Today I sat don with Ken the Content Coach for a healthy dost of inspiration and positivity. Ken is an experienced content creator and coach who has, and continues, to help creators push through roadblocks haling them from achieving goals. Tune in to learn more about Ken, gear needed for content creation, and as well as...

Have you ever wanted to create content and wondered what goes into it? Has content creation been a goal of yours and need some inspiration to get started? Well, if you answered yes to either of those questions this episode is for you! Today I sat don with Ken the Content Coach for a healthy dost of inspiration and positivity. Ken is an experienced content creator and coach who has, and continues, to help creators push through roadblocks haling them from achieving goals. Tune in to learn more about Ken, gear needed for content creation, and as well as...

Have you ever wanted to create content and wondered what goes into it? Has content creation been a goal of yours and need some inspiration to get started? Well, if you answered yes to either of those questions this episode is for you! Today I sat don with Ken the Content Coach for a healthy dost of inspiration and positivity. Ken is an experienced content creator and coach who has, and continues, to help creators push through roadblocks haling them from achieving goals. Tune in to learn more about Ken, gear needed for content creation, and as well as...

Welcome to Season 2! We made it! Thank you so much for your continued support. Follow me on Instagram Today!

In this episode I do not leave ya hanging and provide an update on the booster/seventh Ketamine Treatment for Anxiety and Depression!

The main topics of this episode:

Beard Content Creators & YouTube Channels I recommend:

Welcome to Season 2! We made it! Thank you so much for your continued support. Follow me on Instagram Today!

In this episode I do not leave ya hanging and provide an update on the booster/seventh Ketamine Treatment for Anxiety and Depression!

The main topics of this episode:

Beard Content Creators & YouTube Channels I recommend:

Welcome to Season 2! We made it! Thank you so much for your continued support. Follow me on Instagram Today!

In this episode I do not leave ya hanging and provide an update on the booster/seventh Ketamine Treatment for Anxiety and Depression!

The main topics of this episode:

Beard Content Creators & YouTube Channels I recommend:

This is the final episode of Season 1! Can you believe it? 2022 is going to be an AMAZING Year and we are getting back to a regular cadence for the podcast. Tune in to find out what is coming next for the Beard Winner Podcast in the new year.

2021 Christmas Lights Display Link to Video

Follow me on Instagram Today!

This is the final episode of Season 1! Can you believe it? 2022 is going to be an AMAZING Year and we are getting back to a regular cadence for the podcast. Tune in to find out what is coming next for the Beard Winner Podcast in the new year.

2021 Christmas Lights Display Link to Video

Follow me on Instagram Today!

This is the final episode of Season 1! Can you believe it? 2022 is going to be an AMAZING Year and we are getting back to a regular cadence for the podcast. Tune in to find out what is coming next for the Beard Winner Podcast in the new year.

2021 Christmas Lights Display Link to Video

Follow me on Instagram Today!

Six Ketamine treatments can be life changing, but you are still responsible to make changes in your life. It is a wonderful tool, but not an end all be all for anxiety and depression. In this episode I recap where things are after the course of the infusions and the 4th of July holiday.

Link to Fireworks Show: https://youtu.be/AYTiKhJ8ARA

Support the Podcast or Connect with me:

Six Ketamine treatments can be life changing, but you are still responsible to make changes in your life. It is a wonderful tool, but not an end all be all for anxiety and depression. In this episode I recap where things are after the course of the infusions and the 4th of July holiday.

Link to Fireworks Show: https://youtu.be/AYTiKhJ8ARA

Support the Podcast or Connect with me:

Six Ketamine treatments can be life changing, but you are still responsible to make changes in your life. It is a wonderful tool, but not an end all be all for anxiety and depression. In this episode I recap where things are after the course of the infusions and the 4th of July holiday.

Link to Fireworks Show: https://youtu.be/AYTiKhJ8ARA

Support the Podcast or Connect with me:

As promised I got you another episode of the Beard Winner Podcast in less than five months! I have gone through my first three Ketamine Infusions and man has it been a wild ride. It is unreal and utterly strange to not have the unwelcomed passengers going by the name of Anxiety and Depression. Kicking their asses for once feels so darned good.

Support the Podcast or Connect with me:

As promised I got you another episode of the Beard Winner Podcast in less than five months! I have gone through my first three Ketamine Infusions and man has it been a wild ride. It is unreal and utterly strange to not have the unwelcomed passengers going by the name of Anxiety and Depression. Kicking their asses for once feels so darned good.

Support the Podcast or Connect with me:

As promised I got you another episode of the Beard Winner Podcast in less than five months! I have gone through my first three Ketamine Infusions and man has it been a wild ride. It is unreal and utterly strange to not have the unwelcomed passengers going by the name of Anxiety and Depression. Kicking their asses for once feels so darned good.

Support the Podcast or Connect with me:

Sitting down and recording this has been a long time coming. In this episode my filter is removed and I bring you up to speed to where I am today, how I got here, and what is next. There are plenty of options to live a good, happy, and productive life, but finding the path to said life is easier said than done. Soon I embark on a journey to learn more about myself and hopefully change some pathways in my brain for the better. May this episode be a marker to look back upon in six months to...

Sitting down and recording this has been a long time coming. In this episode my filter is removed and I bring you up to speed to where I am today, how I got here, and what is next. There are plenty of options to live a good, happy, and productive life, but finding the path to said life is easier said than done. Soon I embark on a journey to learn more about myself and hopefully change some pathways in my brain for the better. May this episode be a marker to look back upon in six months to...

Sitting down and recording this has been a long time coming. In this episode my filter is removed and I bring you up to speed to where I am today, how I got here, and what is next. There are plenty of options to live a good, happy, and productive life, but finding the path to said life is easier said than done. Soon I embark on a journey to learn more about myself and hopefully change some pathways in my brain for the better. May this episode be a marker to look back upon in six months to...

Did the Beard Winner come to an end with 2020? Hell no! I am back with a new direction and I want to hear from you all. If you are interesting, can think critically, not full of hate, and can have civil discourse I would love to have you on an upcoming podcast. We will have guests again eventually, but I kept it real once again in a shorter solo episode. The beard game is strong and I have no plans of cutting it off.

Head to the BeardWinner Instagram for updates on the beard and see the...

Did the Beard Winner come to an end with 2020? Hell no! I am back with a new direction and I want to hear from you all. If you are interesting, can think critically, not full of hate, and can have civil discourse I would love to have you on an upcoming podcast. We will have guests again eventually, but I kept it real once again in a shorter solo episode. The beard game is strong and I have no plans of cutting it off.

Head to the BeardWinner Instagram for updates on the beard and see the...

Did the Beard Winner come to an end with 2020? Hell no! I am back with a new direction and I want to hear from you all. If you are interesting, can think critically, not full of hate, and can have civil discourse I would love to have you on an upcoming podcast. We will have guests again eventually, but I kept it real once again in a shorter solo episode. The beard game is strong and I have no plans of cutting it off.

Head to the BeardWinner Instagram for updates on the beard and see the...

My apologies it has taken me a month to get you all an episode. I wanted to check in with you all so you knew the mic was not silenced or off. This episode is another raw solo one where I talk about the direction of the podcast, learning during these times in isolation, loving more than ever, and of course the over 30,000 LED Christmas Lights we hung to make the year a little brighter for our community.

As promised here is a link to our lights on Facebook for you all to enjoy virtually i...