I Like That Story

Jeff Gould
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Each I Like That Story episode showcases the wisdom, humor, and insight of Jeff Gould, America's Storyteller. Episodes are brief or long-form interviews, inspirational, and on-point stories, delivered every week to start your week right. Listen here or subscribe on your favorite podcast platform!

  1. 1d ago

    HWY-Heaven: One Man’s Mission to Change Lives Across America

    What if America’s truck stops could become places of hope, safety, opportunity, and second chances? In this compelling follow-up interview, Jeff Gould reconnects with Stephen Jelinek, a military veteran and self-described “traveling disciple” whose unconventional lifestyle and extraordinary vision challenge the way we think about homelessness, faith, and helping others. Stephen calls his vision HWY-Heaven: a proposed nationwide network of truck stops designed to serve travelers and professional drivers while creating jobs, housing, and opportunities for people experiencing homelessness, transitioning out of incarceration, or rebuilding their lives. His mission goes far beyond building another roadside business. It’s about restoring dignity, creating opportunities, and giving people a chance to start over. Jeff asks the important questions as Stephen explains his inspiration, the challenges ahead, and his belief that faith, determination, and a willingness to think differently can lead to meaningful change. Their conversation explores highway safety, human trafficking, lessons from successful travel centers like Buc-ee’s, and the financial and logistical challenges of bringing HWY-Heaven to life. In their previous video, Jeff and Stephen worked together to build a casket—an unusual project that introduced viewers to Stephen’s unconventional lifestyle. Now, the conversation turns to the much larger mission driving his journey and the people he hopes to help along the way. At its heart, this is a conversation about faith, entrepreneurship, human dignity, and the courage to pursue a vision that could change lives across America. Can HWY-Heaven help transform the future of America’s highways? Watch Part 2 of Stephen’s remarkable story and share your thoughts in the comments. Discover more stories with Jeff Gould: https://ilikethatstory.com #JeffGould #ILikeThatStory #HWYHeaven #Homelessness #Veterans #Faith #Christianity #SecondChances #HumanTrafficking #TruckDrivers #Entrepreneurship #AmericanDream #InspiringStories #Storytelling #StephenJelinek #Veteran #Woodworking #Casket #GreenBurial #Nomad #VanLife #LifeOnTheRoad #Storytelling #LifeLessons #Faith #God

  2. Oct 15

    When the Career Ends, What Comes Next? | Paul Farmer #26

    What happens when a 40-year career in television ends—and the next chapter begins? Jeff Gould sits down with longtime broadcaster and Sioux Falls native Paul Farmer, who spent four decades in television after getting his start in radio and eventually serving as Director of Marketing and Creative Services at KELOLAND Television. Along the way, Paul had a front-row seat to enormous changes in American media—from the decline of newspapers and classified advertising to cable television, streaming, and the disappearance of many of the shared viewing experiences that once brought millions of Americans together. But this conversation goes well beyond broadcasting. Jeff and Paul talk baseball, getting older, breaking a leg at a church softball game, writing comedy, retirement, family, and the challenge of figuring out what comes next when the career that structured your life is suddenly behind you. Paul shares some hard-earned perspective for every stage of life: value your family and friends, protect your integrity and reputation, take some chances, and remember that the years with your children disappear faster than you think. His advice for parents is especially simple: live in the moment and teach your children through the example you set. The conversation eventually turns to something even bigger: purpose. Retirement, Paul says, requires finding a reason to get up each day and always having something ahead to look forward to. And when Jeff asks what God may be calling him to do in this next season, Paul’s answer is simple: serve. It’s a conversation about changing industries, changing seasons, and discovering that retirement doesn’t have to mean reaching the end of your story. Sometimes it means finding the beginning of the next one. And somewhere along the way, Paul may still have an open-mic comedy set waiting for him. Learn more about Jeff Gould and America’s Storyteller at:https://ilikethatstory.com #JeffGould #AmericasStoryteller #PaulFarmer #Broadcasting #Television #Journalism #Retirement #Purpose #LifeLessons #Storytelling #SiouxFalls #SouthDakota #KELOLAND #Family #Legacy Travel with us as we go on the road to Branson, Missouri! https://www.keloland.com/travel/on-the-road/ KLL Rodney Run Jokes Contest Jay Leno (2:56) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TiVmeyXcOq4 ____ Learn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.com Buy Jeff's books, CD, and audio book: https://www.ilikethatstory.net/shop Get urgent one-on-one coaching with Jeff now: https://calendly.com/jeffjgould Connect with Jeff on social media: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/jeffgould LinkedIn: / jeff-gould-americas-storyteller Twitter/X: https://x.com/jeffgouldstory Instagram: / jeffgouldilikethatstory Facebook: / jeffgouldilikethatstory For booking, contact: Email: book@ilikethatstory.net Phone: (605) 215-6414 or https://www.ilikethatstory.net/contact Send business/sponsorship inquiries to book@ilikethatstory.net © Jeff Gould, America's Storyteller This video is not to be reproduced without prior authorization. The original YouTube video may be distributed & embedded, if required. Callers waive all rights to privacy on this public call in show. If you need private coaching, pay for and book a call at https://www.ilikethatstory.com

  3. Aug 20

    What It’s Really Like to Be Governor? | Dennis Daugaard #25

    What is it really like to serve as governor—and what happens when the public life is over? Jeff Gould sits down with former South Dakota Governor Dennis Daugaard for a candid, wide-ranging conversation about politics, leadership, public service, family, and life after elected office. Daugaard’s path was anything but conventional. He grew up on a South Dakota dairy farm, attended law school, worked as a trust officer, and spent nearly 20 years with Children’s Home Society before entering politics. He would go on to serve six years in the South Dakota Senate, eight years as lieutenant governor, and two terms as governor. Dennis takes Jeff behind the scenes of the governor’s office—from demanding schedules and endless meetings to the surprising amount of preparation required simply to stay on top of the job. He explains why having a full-time scheduler, something he once thought sounded unnecessary, turned out to be essential. But this conversation goes well beyond politics. Dennis talks about growing up on a small dairy farm, meeting his wife Linda in eighth grade, finding purpose through service, learning to disagree with people without disliking them, and eventually recognizing when it was time to leave public office behind. After 22 years in politics, he decided there were other parts of life he wanted to experience—including more time with his children and grandchildren. Jeff and Dennis also tackle the state of politics today, authenticity in campaigning, the influence of social media, leadership, relationships, and the difference between the people doing the work and those attracting the attention. And when Jeff asks Dennis to name anyone in the world he’d choose to have lunch with, his answer says a great deal about the man behind the title: he’d rather spend that time with one of his kids. It’s funny, thoughtful, refreshingly down-to-earth, and a rare opportunity to hear what public life looks like from someone who has already lived it—and no longer needs your vote. As Jeff says at the end, sometimes the best thing we can do is simply have a conversation with someone we haven’t talked to in a while—or someone completely new. Learn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.com #JeffGould #AmericasStoryteller #DennisDaugaard #SouthDakota #Leadership #PublicService #Politics #Governor #Storytelling #ILikeThatStory

  4. Aug 13

    101 Years of Life: A WWII Veteran’s Remarkable Story | Bill Kruschel #24

    What can 101 years of life teach us about faith, resilience, service, and staying positive? Jeff Gould, America’s Storyteller, sits down with 101-year-old Bill Kruschel for an unforgettable conversation spanning nearly a century of American history. Born in 1925, Bill grew up during the Great Depression, worked on a farm without running water or electricity, and served as a Navy corpsman attached to the 1st Marine Division during World War II. He remembers Pearl Harbor, Okinawa, the end of the war, and returning home to begin an extraordinary life and career. With only 11 grades of formal schooling, Bill went on to spend 37 years at 3M, working in mechanical engineering during the rise of magnetic tape, computers, and floppy disks. He also devoted years to the Boy Scouts of America and advocating for children with special needs. At 101, Bill still rides his electric tricycle, sings every week, and approaches life with remarkable faith, gratitude, humor, and optimism. And stay to the end—Bill’s rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” is something special. More stories from Jeff Gould, America’s Storyteller: https://ilikethatstory.com #JeffGould #AmericasStoryteller #ILikeThatStory #WWIIVeteran #GreatestGeneration #AmericanHistory #VeteranStories #LifeLessons #Storytelling #Faith #Resilience #BoyScouts

  5. Aug 6

    From Deep-Sea Diver to Veteran Advocate | Paul Riedner #23

    Paul Riedner’s path is anything but ordinary. In this episode, Jeff Gould sits down with former U.S. Army deep-sea diver, entrepreneur, veteran advocate, husband, and father Paul Riedner for a wide-ranging conversation about purpose, service, leadership, and life after the military.  From nearly pursuing professional sports to trading commodities in Chicago, teaching in China, serving as an Army diver, and now helping veterans thrive in business, Paul’s journey is filled with unexpected turns and hard-earned wisdom. Together, they discuss: • Growing up as a gifted athlete and how close Paul came to professional sports • Why a question from a shopkeeper in China ultimately led him to enlist in the U.S. Army at age 28 • The demanding world of Army deep-sea diving, underwater salvage, and military training • Lessons learned from service, sacrifice, and transitioning back to civilian life • The challenges veterans face after leaving the military—and how those experiences can become strengths • The importance of independent thinking, leadership, and finding meaning beyond a career • Paul’s work with What the Truck and Shadow Culture, helping connect veterans with business leaders and communities Paul also shares the personal side of his story—meeting his wife, Anita, who grew up in Poland, raising their three children, and building a family life centered on hard work, fresh food, and shared values. This is an honest conversation that doesn’t rely on easy answers. It explores patriotism, purpose, resilience, entrepreneurship, family, and the lifelong process of asking better questions. Featured articles by and about Paul Riedner: “Among Iraq War’s Many Losses: Trust” https://www.startribune.com/among-iraq-war-s-many-losses-trust/135544583 “Alternate PTSD Therapy for Vets Ruffles VA Feathers but Shows Results” https://www.startribune.com/alternate-ptsd-therapy-for-vets-ruffles-va-feathers-but-shows-results/381263491 “A Trauma Treatment That Struggled for Legitimacy Is Getting Recognition From the VA” https://www.startribune.com/a-trauma-treatment-that-struggled-for-legitimacy-is-getting-recognition-from-the-va/391673891 Connect with Paul and learn more: What the Truck is an experience platform connecting builders with military veterans through shared experiences, storytelling, leadership, and service. https://www.whatthetruck.live/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulriedner/ https://www.facebook.com/paul.riedner Throughout June, Paul has been sharing an “Origins” campaign on LinkedIn, telling stories about where he was raised and the paths he has taken since. If you know someone with a remarkable story, let us know. Their story could be featured in a future episode. Learn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.com #JeffGould #AmericasStoryteller #PaulRiedner #Veterans #ArmyVeteran #Military #DeepSeaDiver #VeteranLeadership #MilitaryTransition #Leadership #LeadershipDevelopment #Entrepreneurship #ExecutiveCoaching #Purpose #PersonalGrowth #Resilience #Storytelling #AmericanStories #WhatTheTruck #Podcast #Interview

  6. Jul 30

    After Losing Her Brother, She Chose to Become a Light | Laney Titze #22

    After losing her 15-year-old brother Tegan to suicide, Laney Titze and her family chose to turn their grief into a mission of hope—helping others know they are never alone and that hope is always possible. In this episode of I Like That Story, Jeff Gould sits down with Laney, an elementary special education teacher, radio personality on Kool 98.3, photographer, business owner, nonprofit leader, and mental health advocate from South Dakota. Laney serves as treasurer and public relations manager for Tegan’s Light, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting mental health awareness, suicide prevention, and education. Following Tegan’s death, Laney and her family began channeling their loss into action by speaking in schools, leading community initiatives, and advocating for greater access to mental health resources. Jeff and Laney have an open, vulnerable, and often uplifting conversation about grief, faith, mental health, purpose, and what it’s really like trying to figure out life in your early 20s. Laney also shares her experiences as a special education teacher, photographer, and radio personality, along with her thoughts on technology, screen time, the changing world of radio, and the importance of authentic human connection. At the heart of the conversation is Tegan’s Light and the impact one life can continue to have on others. Laney shares how people have sought therapy, talked with their doctors, and reached out for help after hearing Tegan’s story. Whether she’s in the classroom, behind the microphone, taking photos, or speaking on stage, Laney wants to use her voice to make a difference. Her goal is simple but powerful: to be a light for others—and inspire them to become a light in someone else’s life. UPCOMING EVENT Tegan’s Light Annual Golf & Cornhole Tournament August 15, 2026 Learn more about Tegan’s Light: TegansLight.org FOLLOW TEGAN’S LIGHT Instagram: @tegans_light Facebook: Tegan’s Light FOLLOW LANEY TITZE Instagram: @laney_titze18 Facebook: Laney Titze If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out to a trusted person or qualified mental health professional for support. Subscribe to I Like That Story for more conversations with ordinary people whose experiences remind us of the power of faith, hope, purpose, and the stories that connect us. #JeffGould #AmericasStoryteller #ILikeThatStory #TegansLight #LaneyTitze #MentalHealthAwareness #SuicidePrevention #MentalHealth #Hope #Purpose #Faith #Grief #Healing #SpecialEducation #SouthDakota ____ Learn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.com Buy Jeff's books, CD, and audio book: https://www.ilikethatstory.net/shop Get urgent one-on-one coaching with Jeff now: https://calendly.com/jeffjgould Connect with Jeff on social media: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/jeffgould LinkedIn: / jeff-gould-americas-storyteller Twitter/X: https://x.com/jeffgouldstory Instagram: / jeffgouldilikethatstory Facebook: / jeffgouldilikethatstory For booking, contact: Email: book@ilikethatstory.net Phone: (605) 215-6414 or https://www.ilikethatstory.net/contact Send business/sponsorship inquiries to book@ilikethatstory.net © Jeff Gould, America's Storyteller This video is not to be reproduced without prior authorization. The original YouTube video may be distributed & embedded, if required. Callers waive all rights to privacy on this public call in show. If you need private coaching, pay for and book a call at https://www.ilikethatstory.com

  7. Jul 23

    After Losing His Son, He Built Something That's Changing Lives | Mike Turner #21

    What if the greatest legacy of loss isn’t grief—but service? In this powerful conversation, Jeff Gould sits down with Mike Turner, Executive Director of Owen’s Outfitters, to share an extraordinary story of hope born from heartbreak. After losing his son Owen, Mike and his family chose to transform unimaginable loss into a mission that is changing lives every day. Owen’s Outfitters collects donated medical equipment—from wheelchairs and hospital beds to walkers, knee scooters, and countless other essential items—and provides them free of charge to anyone who needs them. No insurance requirements. No income limits. No complicated red tape. Just neighbors helping neighbors. In this interview, you’ll discover: • How one family’s tragedy became a movement of compassion • Why an estimated tens of billions of dollars of usable medical equipment are discarded each year • How Owen’s Outfitters has already kept millions of dollars of equipment in use instead of landfills • The simple philosophy that has fueled remarkable growth • Why this model could be replicated in communities across America • The inspiring power of choosing purpose after profound loss This isn’t just a story about medical equipment. It’s a story about purpose, generosity, community, and the incredible impact ordinary people can have when they refuse to let suffering have the final word. If this conversation inspires you, please Like, Subscribe, and Share it with someone who needs a reminder that hope can grow from even the hardest seasons. To learn more about Mike Turner and Owen’s Outfitters, donate medical equipment, volunteer, or support their mission, visit:https://owensoutfitters.org/https://www.thelegacyfoundationsd.com...  / owen-s-outfitters    / mike-turner-86a98253    / owensoutfitters    / tlf.owensoutfitters   Owen's Outfitters PSA    • Owen's Outfitters PSA   Katy’s Kloset https://teamupwithfamilies.org/ Give Kids the World https://www.gktw.org/ Make-A-Wish https://wish.org/ Keep or Toss? Wheat Copper Pennies    • KEEP or TOSS? Wheat Copper Pennies

  8. Jul 16

    From the Appalachian Trail to a Mission to End Homelessness | Stephen Jelinek #20

    Every life has a story—but some stories refuse to fit into a single chapter. In this deeply personal conversation, Jeff Gould sits down with Stephen Jelinek, a veteran, entrepreneur, long-distance adventurer, and man of unwavering faith whose life has been marked by extraordinary highs and devastating lows. Stephen shares stories of serving in a nuclear missile wing during the Cold War, hiking the entire Appalachian Trail, kayaking the length of the Mississippi River, ministering to the homeless, surviving divorce and depression, and facing the unimaginable loss of his son to murder. Through it all, he explains how faith has shaped his response to suffering and inspired his vision for “Highway Heaven,” an ambitious plan to provide purpose, work, and hope for people experiencing homelessness. Topics include: • Growing up under the influence of a remarkable grandfather • Military service during the Cold War • Depression, divorce, and rebuilding a life • Living alongside the homeless and what most people never see • Hiking the Appalachian Trail and kayaking the Mississippi River • Forgiving the man who murdered his son • The vision behind Highway Heaven • Faith, purpose, resilience, and redemption Whether you agree with every conclusion or not, this conversation offers an honest look at loss, forgiveness, perseverance, and the power of holding onto hope when life takes unexpected turns. If this story resonates with you, please like the video, subscribe to the channel, and share it with someone who might need encouragement today. A Veteran's Last Request (Casket Building Video) https://youtu.be/5pb5eTkL13M?si=en-D0ODezJs3lb3T Alan Graham https://mlf.org/alan-graham/ #JeffGould #AmericasStoryteller #Faith #Forgiveness #Homelessness #AppalachianTrail #MississippiRiver #Veteran #Inspiration #LifeStory #Hope #Redemption #Purpose #Christianity ____ Learn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.com

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5
out of 5
39 Ratings

About

Each I Like That Story episode showcases the wisdom, humor, and insight of Jeff Gould, America's Storyteller. Episodes are brief or long-form interviews, inspirational, and on-point stories, delivered every week to start your week right. Listen here or subscribe on your favorite podcast platform!

Information

  • Creator
    Jeff Gould
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    382
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    I Like That Story

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