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by Skip Lineberg
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- 5 days ago9 min
Ep. 145 - Skip's Quips: Who Do We Stop For?
Ep. 145 – Skip's Quips: Who Do We Stop For? There's a strange thing that happens to us when we drive. Over time, certain people begin to fade into the scenery—not because we are cruel, but because the human brain is constantly filtering what deserves our attention and what can safely blur into the background. In this short "Skip's Quips" episode, Skip reflects on a cold spring morning in Appalachia, a man named Jim sitting near an interstate exit, and an unexpected encounter involving two stray dogs on a grassy hillside. Along the way, this essay explores attention, habituation, the identifiable victim effect, emotional distance, and the subtle psychological forces that shape who fully registers in our field of vision—and who slowly disappears into the wallpaper of modern life. This is a reflective conversation about attunement, compassion, and a quietly difficult question: Who do we stop for? Where's the Special Guest and What's a "Skip's Quip?" We are doing something a little different. We will be sharing a wisdom lesson with you—but there won't be a guest. A short wisdom lesson of less than 10 minutes total. We plan to do these about 5 times a year. We're calling these special editions - "Skip's Quips." Don't worry, we will still bring you wisdom conversations with our special guests twice a month. Additionally, you will receive "Skip's Quips" to supplement to our regular wisdom programming. Let us know what you think, and please share your feedback. You can do that via SpeakPipe. For More Information About Skip Lineberg Please visit our website. Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss Brand + Strategy Advisor Andy Malinoski PR + Partnerships Advisor Rachel Bell Graphic Design + Social Media Chloe Lineberg Stay Connected with Us on Social YouTube @themainthingpod Twitter @themainthingpod Instagram @themainthingpod Facebook @TheMainThingPod LinkedIn How Can You Help Support the Growth of this Podcast? Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our Merchandise Store. Become a patron of the show and support us on Patreon with funding. Purchase a book from our curated collection on Bookshop. CHAPTERS + TIMESTAMPS <stron
- 3 weeks ago30 min
Ep. 144: The Casket Maker's Secret to a Good Life | Marcus Daly
My Wisdom Conversation with Marcus Daly What does a casket maker know about life? More than you might expect. In this deeply thoughtful conversation, Marcus Daly shares how a life spent building caskets has shaped the way he thinks about living, loving, and what ultimately matters. What begins as a conversation about craft and career unfolds into something far more meaningful—touching on loss, purpose, faith, and the quiet choices that shape a good life. A Bit More About Our Wise Guest Marcus is the founder of Marian Caskets, a husband and father of eleven. He's a former commercial fisherman and boat builder. A craftsman by trade and a student of life by disposition, Marcus brings a grounded, deeply human perspective to questions most of us tend to avoid. From a formative season in Alaska to a deeply personal moment that led him to build his first casket, Marcus offers wisdom that is both practical and profound. This episode doesn't feel heavy—it feels clarifying, even peaceful. Because at its core is a simple, searching question: Am I living in a way today that I won't have to run from later? What You'll Take Away Why thinking about death can sharpen how we live What most of us spend our lives worrying about (it doesn't matter) Two simple, practical steps to begin living differently—today Closing Thought A good life isn't built all at once. It's built one decision at a time—often in quiet, unseen moments—shaped by what we choose to value, who we choose to love, and how we choose to show up. And maybe, just maybe, the end of life isn't something to fear… but something that reveals whether we've been living it well. Wisdom Resources Marcus Daly's Podcast - "Die Human" on YouTube Website for Marian Caskets Short film documenting Marcus' work Episode Chapters 00:00 – Why Thinking About the End Changes How We Live Skip opens with wisdom, mortality, and the idea that a good death begins with a good life. 03:15 – Meet Marcus Daly: The Casket Maker Marcus is introduced, along with the unusual work and perspective he brings. 05:10 – How Marcus and Skip are Connected Skip and Marcus reconnect over their college days and Phi Sigma Kappa roots. 06:39 – A Podcast About Life, Death, and Meaning Marcus shares how his work led to deeper reflection through Die Human. 09:19 – Chasing Adventure in Alaska Marcus recalls commercial fishing and the pull toward hard, honest work. 11:41 – From Carpentry to Calling How working with his hands eventually led Marcus toward casket making. 12:34 – The First Casket: A Defining Loss Marcus shares the deeply personal story behind the first casket he built. 15:38 – What Death Reveals About Life How casket making reshaped his perspective on gratitude, priorities, and what endures. 17:44 - Marcus Reveals His Main Thing Wisdom 24:45 – Living It Out: Two Practical Steps Marcus offers simple, actionable ways to begin living differently. Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss Brand + Strategy Advisor Andy Malinoski PR + Partnerships Advisor Rachel Bell Graphic Design + Social Media Chloe Lineberg
- Mar 27, 202637 min
Ep. 143 - She Built Green Goo. Then It Was Gone | Jodi Scott
What happens when the thing you built gets taken away? Jodi Scott founded Green Goo with a simple mission: create clean, all-natural first aid products that actually work. What started in her kitchen grew into a nationally recognized brand. And then—just like that—it was gone. A financing deal fell apart. Ownership slipped away. And Jodi found herself on the outside of the very company she created. Most people would walk away. Jodi didn't. In this episode, Jodi shares the hard-earned wisdom from the fight to reclaim what was hers—and what that battle revealed about resilience, identity, and the courage to keep going when the outcome is uncertain. Podcast Resources & Links Learn more about Green Goo The Green Goo store on Amazon Connect with Jodi on LinkedIn Why This Episode Matters Loss has a way of stripping things down to the essentials. Sometimes, what you rebuild on the other side is stronger, clearer and more aligned than what you once had. In this episode you'll learn: Why losing something you built can clarify what actually matters The difference between ownership and identity—and why confusing the two is dangerous How to live a more present, focused life and why being (as opposed to doing) is vitally important today A Bit More About Our Wise Guest - Jodi Scott Jodi Scott is the CEO of Spry Life and founder of Green Goo, an all-natural first aid and body care company known for its commitment to clean ingredients and effective healing solutions. With a background in pre-med studies and a master's degree in health psychology, Jodi's work bridges science, plant medicine, and the mind-body connection. Her journey as an entrepreneur is marked not only by innovation—but by resilience, grit, and an unwavering belief in what she built. She joined us from her home near Denver, Colorado. Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss Brand + Strategy Advisor Andy Malinoski Stay Connected with Us on Social YouTube @themainthingpod Instagram @themainthingpod Facebook @TheMainThingPod LinkedIn Support the Show Your support helps us continue to find, capture, and share wisdom that helps us all get better at life. Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Buy some Main Thing Merch from our Merchandise Store. Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on bookshop.org. Become a patron and support us on Patreon with funding. Episode Chapters + Timestamps <p
- Mar 5, 202632 min
Ep. 142 - Seeing Life Clearly: Wisdom from Dr. Brad Lane
Welcome back to The Main Thing Podcast — your wisdom podcast where we explore insights, stories, and ideas that help us get a little bit better at life. In this episode, host Skip Lineberg sits down with optometrist, author, and community leader Dr. Brad Lane for a thoughtful conversation about mindset, perception, and the power of intentional focus. Brad shares how a simple journaling practice reshaped his daily life, how gratitude and reflection can transform our outlook, and why the human brain often finds exactly what it is looking for. Drawing from both neuroscience and real-life experience, Brad explains the role of the reticular activating system—a powerful mental filter that influences what we notice, believe, and ultimately become. Podcast Resources & Links Get Brad's book "The Professional's Daily Balance Journal" on Amazon Grab a copy of Brad's book "Appalachian Son" [links coming soon] Learn more about Appalachian Eye Care Connect with Brad on LinkedIn Through stories from his upbringing as the son of a West Virginia coal miner, his journey into optometry, and his work serving communities across the region, Brad offers listeners practical wisdom about how to train the mind, shape perspective, and live with purpose and clarity. This conversation is both reflective and practical—filled with insights you can begin applying immediately. Press play and discover why seeing life clearly begins with choosing what you focus on. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why journaling can help clear mental clutter and set daily intentions How gratitude and reflection shape the direction of your day The neuroscience behind the reticular activating system and how it impacts your mindset Why negative self-talk can sabotage progress—and how to replace it A Bit More About Our Wise Guest Dr. Brad Lane is a business and community leader and the co-owner and operator of Appalachian Eye Care, a growing regional optometry practice serving communities in Princeton and Beckley, West Virginia, as well as Giles County, Virginia. A native of Mullens, West Virginia and the proud son of a coal miner, Brad earned undergraduate degrees from Concord University and his Doctor of Optometry from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry. He later completed both an MBA and a Master of Education. Dr. Lane is an active advocate for the optometry profession and has served in leadership roles with several professional organizations and councils. He is also a published author whose upcoming second book, Appalachian Son, is scheduled for release in early 2026. Beyond his professional work, Brad is deeply committed to community service. He currently serves as Vice Chairman of the Concord University Board of Governors and supports multiple scholarships and charitable initiatives throughout the region. Brad Lane joins us for this conversation from Princeton, West Virginia. Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss Brand + Strategy Advisor Andy Malinoski PR + Partnerships Advisor Rachel Bell Graphic Design + Social Media Chloe Lineberg Stay Connected with Us on Social YouTube @themainthingpod <a href= "https://twitter.com/themainthingpod" tar
- Feb 19, 202623 min
Ep. 141 - Switching Microphones with Chip VanAlsburg
When the Mic Turns Around What happens when interviewer becomes interviewee? In this special role-reversal episode of The Main Thing, longtime friend Chip VanAlsburg steps in as host to turn the microphone on Skip Lineberg. Together, they explore the origin story behind the podcast, the deeper spiritual motivation driving it, and what it really takes to distill knowledge into wisdom that helps people get better at life. Pulling Back the Curtain on The Main Thing From childhood conversations with elders to the "Holy Spirit moment" that birthed the show. And from the unseen, labor-intensive work behind each 25-minute episode… Skip pulls back the curtain, as Chip presents his own brand of insightful, soul-piercing questions. On Light, Leadership, and the Long Game The duo also dives into: Why growth isn't for everyone (and why that's okay) What it means to live effulgently—radiating light and love Reframing "empty nest" into "spacious nest" The butterfly effect of sharing wisdom And how knowledge becomes wisdom only when it's lived and shared Last but not least, Chip shares his own emerging vision—an honest, heartfelt look at trauma, healing, storytelling, and what he calls "big medicine." If you've ever wondered why this podcast exists—or what wisdom is really for—this conversation will meet you right where you are. Press play. Reflect deeply. Share generously. A Bit More About Our Wise Guest-Host Chip VanAlsburg is a big thinker with a restless mind and a wide-open heart. He challenges assumptions, pushes boundaries, and rarely accepts "no" as the final answer—especially when curiosity or conviction is involved. Bold and unafraid, Chip has spent more than two decades leading in the media, technology, and telecommunications worlds, holding roles such as General Manager, Vice President, and most recently Director at Lumen Technologies in Pittsburgh. But titles only tell part of the story. Chip is a glutton for experiences, with a voracious appetite for life and learning. He's an avid user of emojis, deeply fond of laughter, and unashamed of tears when the moment calls for them. His ego is squarely in check, even as his irises stay cranked wide open in a lifelong quest for peace, perspective, and enlightenment. What makes Chip compelling isn't just what he's accomplished—it's how he shows up: courageous, curious, emotionally honest, and fully engaged with the world around him. He brings that same energy and depth to conversation, making him the kind of guest who doesn't just share insights—he invites reflection. Now, buckle up and get ready to join the duo in exploring the concept of living a good life by pursuing purpose with humility, resilience and faith. This episode was recorded in-person, face-to-face inside Parkwood Studios in Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Resources Podcast Website Sign Up for the Newsletter Learn About the Wisdom Cards Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss Brand + Strategy Advisor Andy Malinoski PR + Partnerships Advisor Rachel Bell Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Chloe Lineberg Stay Connected with Us on Social YouTube @themainthingpod <a href= "https://www.instagram.com/themain
- Jan 22, 202634 min
Ep. 140: An Enlightened Look at the Southern Border – with Gil Gillenwater
Wisdom, Perspective and Hope on the Border: A Wisdom Conversation with Gil Gillenwater Welcome back to The Main Thing Podcast. We recently engaged in a meaningful and transformative conversation with Gil Gillenwater, a trailblazing humanitarian leader. Gil has devoted his life to serving people in the U.S.–Mexico borderlands. This conversation offers listeners a deeper, more grounded understanding of the southern border, beyond headlines, politics, and talking points. Let's be clear from the outset: if you think this episode is about free handouts or opening up our borders to everyone, you are sorely mistaken. Your eyes will be dramatically opened when you listen to Gil's wisdom. What unfolds is a focused, human conversation about dignity, responsibility, faith, and hope—shared by someone who has lived and worked in the borderlands for decades. Podcast Resources & Links Rancho Feliz Charitable Foundation (Gil's nonprofit): https://ranchofeliz.com/ Gil Gillenwater's book — "Hope on the Border" https://a.co/d/ciQvuDI (From Amazon) Videos about Rancho Feliz https://youtube.com/@ranchofeliz?si=JctJeBTZSm2M2ycT Gil and Troy's Epic 1982 Journey - The Arizona Trail https://www.arizonahighways.com/archive/issues/chapter/Doc.1506.Chapter.7 A Focused Wisdom Conversation This episode invites listeners to elevate their perspective on one of the most complex and misunderstood issues in American life by hearing directly from someone with lived experience on the border. Gil shares what decades of service have taught him about humility, human dignity, leadership, and faith—offering insight that replaces assumption with understanding and reaction with clarity. What You'll Learn in This Episode How lived experience reshapes our understanding of the U.S.–Mexico border Why responsibility and dignity matter as much as compassion What long-term service teaches us about leadership and humility How faith can inform action without relying on easy answers More About Our Wise Guest Gil Gillenwater is the founder and president of the Rancho Feliz Charitable Foundation, an award-winning nonprofit dedicated to long-term, dignity-centered service in the U.S.–Mexico borderlands. His work has been recognized with Arizona's highest honor for volunteerism, as well as formal recognition from Mexican authorities. Gil is also the author of Hope on the Border, a deeply human account of life and service in the borderlands, highlighting both hard realities and quiet acts of redemption. Why This Episode Matters Few topics generate more emotion—and less understanding—than America's southern border. This episode is for anyone willing to have assumptions challenged and perspective expanded. Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss Brand + Strategy Advisor Andy Malinoski PR + Partnerships Advisor Rachel Bell Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Chloe Lineberg Stay Connected with Us on Social <
- Dec 20, 20257 min
Ep. 139 - Skip's Quips: The Worst Christmas Gift I Ever Recieved
The Worst Christmas Gift I Ever Received Welcome, wisdom-seekers to Skip's Quips - a Holiday Special Edition! This week on The Main Thing Podcast, we're doing something a little different — and a little more intimate. No guest. No interview. Just you and me, gathered around a story that has stayed with me for nearly half a century. And it couldn't be landing at a better time. Today is a week before Christmas, and most of us are feeling the familiar holiday squeeze — the pressure to get it right, to pick the perfect gifts, to keep all the moving parts moving. Before the wrapping paper flies and the chaos peaks, let's pause to unwrap a story that surprised me… and eventually shaped me. This is the tale of the worst Christmas gift I ever received — and the unexpected wisdom it carried. About This Special Episode In this short Christmas reflection, I take you back to 1976, when ten-year-old Skip unwrapped a gift that left him confused, disappointed, and wondering what he had done wrong. But what I didn't know then — and what I can see so clearly now — is that the quiet gifts we don't understand often become the ones that shape our character the most deeply. This story is a reminder that: Some gifts grow on us slowly Love sometimes looks like preparation And the smallest objects can carry the largest lessons It's my Christmas gift to you today — a little wisdom wrapped in memory, gratitude, and hindsight. Where's the Special Guest and What's a "Skip's Quip?" We are doing something a little different. I'll be sharing a wisdom lesson with you—but there won't be a guest. Just me, sharing wisdom. A short wisdom lesson of less than 10 minutes total. We plan to do these about 6 times a year. We're calling these special editions - "Skip's Quips." Don't worry, we will still bring you wisdom conversations with our special guests twice a month. Additionally, you will receive "Skip's Quips" to supplement to our regular wisdom programming. Let us know what you think, and please share your feedback. You can do that via SpeakPipe. This special "Skip's Quip" will help you: Reset your heart six days before Christmas See gift-giving through a new, deeper lens Remember the shaping power of work, responsibility, and small tasks For More Information About Skip Lineberg Please visit our website. Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss Brand + Strategy Advisor Andy Malinoski PR + Partnerships Advisor Rachel Bell Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Chloe Lineberg Stay Connected with Us on Social YouTube @themainthingpod Twitter @themainthingpod Instagram @themainthingpod Facebook @TheMainThingPod LinkedIn TikTok @TheMainThingPod Help Support and Sustain This Podcast Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod <li class
- Dec 9, 202525 min
Ep. 138 - Connector Kathleen Walker Shares Timeless Wisdom
In this heartfelt and deeply meaningful wisdom conversation, I sit down with Kathleen Walker—a trusted friend of more than 25 years, a respected leadership consultant, an entrepreneur and one of the most compassionate people I know. Kathleen works with leaders, teams, and organizations to strengthen communication, clarity, and performance. But beyond her professional expertise, Kathleen brings a rare blend of empathy, insight, and lived wisdom that has shaped countless lives—including mine. This conversation is an invitation to slow down, look inward, and lead differently. Lead With Love – Leadership, Relationships & the Choice That Changes Everything We explore Kathleen's powerful "main thing" wisdom—lead with love—and how it applies in both leadership and personal life. From hiring and workplace communication to parenting, grief, friendship, and everyday relationships, Kathleen reveals how love can become a conscious, transformative choice instead of a reaction driven by fear or frustration. You'll be moved by stories of her father's influence, her journey as a leader and mother, and the simple daily practices that help her choose love again and again. This conversation is filled with encouragement, perspective, and practical insight you can apply immediately. What You'll Learn from Our Wisdom Conversation How love transforms leadership, feedback, and workplace culture The difference between reacting in fear and responding in love How relationships directly shape fulfillment, health, and longevity A Bit More About Our Wise Guest Kathleen Walker is the cofounder of Epiphany Consulting, a leadership and assessment firm serving individuals, teams, and organizations. Her professional background spans telecommunications, transportation, healthcare, law, and personal services. She specializes in communication, leadership alignment, hiring, and personal development. Kathleen is a South Charleston native, a devoted wife and mother of two daughters, and a lifelong encourager. She joins us from Charleston, West Virginia. Podcast Resources Learn more about Epiphany Consulting Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss Brand + Strategy Advisor Andy Malinoski PR + Partnerships Advisor Rachel Bell Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Chloe Lineberg Stay Connected with Us on Social YouTube @themainthingpod Twitter @themainthingpod Instagram @themainthingpod Facebook @TheMainThingPod LinkedIn Help Support and Sustain This Podcast Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our Merchandise Store. Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on bookshop.org. Become a patron and support us on Patreon with funding. Episode Chapters
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