The James Beaudrie Podcast

In this episode, I sit down with Professor Michael Nagle, a historian with over 30 years of teaching experience at West Shore Community College, where he specializes in U.S. History, Western Civilization, and American Government.We begin by discussing his work as an author, including his biographies on Eber B. Ward and Justus S. Stearns, before diving deep into the American Revolution and the origins of the Declaration of Independence.What were the Founding Fathers really thinking? What did the Declaration of Independence actually mean in its time—and how should it be understood today?Professor Nagle breaks down the history of the American Revolution, the political philosophy behind the founding of the United States, and the lasting impact of these ideas on modern America. With decades of experience teaching history, he provides clear, insightful analysis that connects the past to today’s political and cultural landscape.If you’re interested in American history, the Revolutionary War, the Founding Fathers, or the Constitution, this episode is for you!Topics Covered:American Revolution explainedDeclaration of Independence meaningFounding Fathers and political philosophyEarly American history and governmentHistorical research and writing biographiesHow history influences modern politics

Chase Callaway describes himself as an “unprofessional bladesmith,” but his passion for forging knives tells a much deeper story. By trade, Chase is a Journeyman Lineman, working one of the most physically demanding and dangerous jobs out there—climbing poles, working high-voltage lines, and helping keep the power on when the rest of the world needs it most.In this episode we dive deep into what it really takes to succeed as a lineman. Chase shares what the journey to becoming a journeyman looks like, the challenges of the trade, and how physical strength, discipline, and mental toughness are essential to the job.Fitness is a major part of Chase’s life, and we talk about how training and staying in shape directly impacts his performance in such a physically demanding career.Outside of work, Chase has developed a serious passion for forging knives, teaching himself the craft and embracing the process of shaping raw steel into functional art. What started as a curiosity has grown into a creative outlet that combines patience, precision, and craftsmanship.This conversation covers work ethic, physical training, skilled trades, craftsmanship, and the mindset required to pursue passions outside of your day job.If you’re interested in blue-collar grit, strength, and the art of making something with your hands, you’ll enjoy this episode.

Epstein. Aliens. Artificial intelligence. Cartels. Iran. Venezuela. ICE.In this episode, we connect the dots between the Epstein files, UFO disclosure, the rise of AI, the Mexican drug war, global instability and border policy.What is distraction, what is strategy, and what is actually happening behind the scenes?Full breakdown inside.

Jackie Gutowski joins the show to break down her vision for Manistee Performance Gym — a true all-in-one fitness space built to raise the standard for health and performance in our community.This isn’t just another gym. MPG is designed to combine cutting-edge training equipment, tailored workout programming, recovery tools like a sauna and cold plunge, and personalized dietary guidance — all under one roof.We talk about why she decided now was the time to open, what makes MPG different, and how this model can help beginners, athletes, and everyday people train smarter, recover better, and see real results.If you care about your health, performance, or the future of fitness in Manistee, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

In this episode, I sit down with Bill Travis, a retired U.S. Navy veteran whose life of service didn’t end when he hung up the uniform.Bill spent his career in the U.S. Navy Seabees—a unique and elite construction force within the Navy. The Seabees (short for Construction Battalions) are trained builders and engineers who construct critical infrastructure in some of the world’s most challenging environments, often under combat conditions. Their motto, “We Build, We Fight,” speaks to the dual role they play—skilled tradesmen and warfighters when needed.After retiring from the Navy, Bill and his wife took that same service-first mindset into civilian life by opening Third Coast Boutique in downtown Manistee, Michigan. What started as a small boutique has grown into something much bigger: a platform dedicated to selling veteran-produced products and supporting the veteran community through conscious commerce.At the heart of Bill’s work is a deeply personal mission—making a real difference in the lives of veterans, especially in the fight against veteran suicide. With an estimated 22 veterans a day lost to suicide, this isn’t just a statistic for Bill; it’s a call to action.In this conversation, we dive into:Bill’s long career in the U.S. Navy and his time with the SeabeesWhat the transition from military service to small business ownership really looks likeHow Third Coast Boutique is being used as a vehicle for impact, not just profitThe importance of community, purpose, and connection in saving veterans’ livesThis episode is about service, leadership, and what it means to continue showing up for others long after the uniform comes off.

In this episode, I sit down with Dave Kaminski, founder and owner of Roaming Restrooms, to talk about what it really takes to build a business from the ground up — and why success almost never looks the way you expect it to when you’re starting out.Dave shares how Roaming Restrooms began as an idea and evolved into a full-scale business focused on solving a very real problem: the lack of clean, upscale, on-site restroom options for weddings, festivals, and large events. We talk about identifying a niche, building something that goes far beyond a side hustle, and staying committed to a long-term vision even when the path forward isn’t clear.This conversation dives into the realities of entrepreneurship — the learning curve, the financial and mental pressure, the wins, the setbacks, and the patience required to keep moving forward. Dave breaks down what it’s like to build a service-based business, create systems as you go, and remain mission-driven while navigating the ups and downs that come with ownership.Topics covered include entrepreneurship, small business growth, startup mindset, scaling a service business, identifying market needs, and playing the long game as a business owner.If you’re thinking about starting a business, growing beyond a side hustle, or just want an honest look at what entrepreneurship actually looks like day to day, this episode offers real insight from someone living it. https://www.roamingrestrooms.com

In this episode of The James Beaudrie Podcast, I sit down with Dwight Silva, a Veteran Marine Corps Officer, entrepreneur, and mission-driven leader.We talk about leadership forged through military service, how Marines transition that mindset into entrepreneurship, and why discipline, accountability, and values matter more than ever in today’s world. Dwight shares how staying mission-focused shapes his approach to business, family, and life — and what it really means to be a good human when no one is watching.This conversation dives into:Marine Corps leadership lessonsTransitioning from military service to entrepreneurshipMission-focused mindset in business and lifeDiscipline, integrity, and personal responsibilityLeading with purpose beyond the uniformIf you’re interested in veteran stories, leadership development, entrepreneurship, or building a life rooted in purpose, this episode delivers real perspective and earned wisdom.

Dan Broadbent is back for round two.| Blood Work | Enclomiphene | Testosterone | Tadalafil | MK-677In this follow-up conversation, I sit down again with my friend and good human Dan Broadbent—owner of Broadbent Photography and a three-time Manistee News Advocate Reader’s Choice Award winner for local photography—to revisit his ongoing health and lifestyle transformation.This time, we go deeper. ( Dan also produced this entire episode using all of his equipment )We revisit many of the same topics from our first conversation, but with more clarity, reflection, and real-world experience behind them. Dan shares why consistent blood work has become a non-negotiable part of his health journey, what he’s learned since our first conversation, and how that information led him to simplify and adjust his approach.We talk about:The importance of understanding your numbers before making changesHow blood work shaped Dan’s decision-makingWhy he moved away from a larger peptide stackHis current, more focused approach utilizing MK-677, Enclomiphene, and TadalafilSustainability, responsibility, and long-term thinking when it comes to health optimizationThis episode isn’t about chasing extremes—it’s about awareness, education, and taking ownership of your health with intention.Please note: Neither the host nor the guest are medical professionals. This conversation is for informational and educational purposes only. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health, supplements, or medical regimen.

Jermaine Sullivan is the Queen. The Mayor of Manistee, Real estate expert and a genuine good human. Local Politics aside on this episode I take the time to get to know my friend just a little better. This was a fun episode. Enjoy.

On this episode, I sit down with Rachael Edmondson — known on Instagram as fitnurserach — someone who brings a refreshing level of honesty to the world of health and fitness. Rachael doesn’t hide behind filters, lighting tricks, or curated perfection. She shares her workouts, her meals, and her real thoughts on lifting, nutrition, and daily habits in a way that speaks to the everyday person trying to feel better and live stronger.We talk about what consistency really looks like, how to build a healthier relationship with food and training, and why authenticity matters now more than ever. If you’re looking for practical, no-nonsense insight into taking care of your body without the noise and gimmicks, this conversation is for you.

In this episode, Nate and I talk about philosophy and stoicism — We break down how these ideas apply to everyday life, especially when you’re surrounded by nonstop political noise.From there, we get into the state of modern politics: the “right vs. left” tribal mindset, the way social media pushes people into emotional extremes, and how political targeting online is shaping the way Americans think, argue, and even vote. No sugarcoating — just an honest look at how divisive things have become and why it feels like everyone’s being pushed to pick a side.It’s a grounded, straightforward conversation about thinking better, reacting less, and navigating a world that feels engineered to make you angry.Nate is co-host of the Podcast Manistee County Democrats on YouTube.

In this episode I respond to voicemails, and text messages from you! Want to be apart of the show. Send me a question in text or leave a voicemail. I will play and read your messeges on the show and provide a response. should be fun. I hope... Hugs and kisses. JB. 

On this episode, I sit down with Christina Cobb. We talk about gratitude, photography, and what it means to navigate life in today’s world. I’ve known Christina for over three decades, but until recently, our conversations hadn’t gone much further than a simple “hello.”So, I reached out and asked if she’d be up for catching up—on the podcast—and she said yes. What followed was an honest, nostalgic, and uplifting conversation about the past 30 years and the people we’ve become.Christina is a genuinely rad human, and this episode was a reminder of how powerful reconnection can be.

# 151 Jared Funk - Chef ~ Resturaunt Owner ~ EntrepreneurIn this episode, I sit down with Chef Jared Funk — owner and creative force behind Chef Jared & Company. Jared isn’t just a chef; he’s a genuinely good human who pours heart and intention into everything he does. His food is simple, made from scratch, and crafted with precision and love.From his early days in the kitchen as a kid to cooking in restaurants across the country, Jared’s journey has always been about expressing creativity through food. His philosophy says it all: “Go slow. Grow slow. Do what you love.” For Jared, money isn’t the goal — it’s simply the byproduct of passion, patience, and purpose.

Madelyn Fitzsimmons is back for round two. She’s the powerhouse behind Millennial Decor and Trophies Café in downtown Manistee, and this time we just sit down and catch up. No big agenda — just a real conversation about running local businesses, dealing with the ups and downs of the current culture, and what life looks like when you’re trying to balance it all.It’s one of those easy, honest talks that reminds you why these small-town entrepreneurs are the heartbeat of their communities. Madelyn’s sharp, funny, and not afraid to tell it like it is.Kick back, grab a coffee, and listen in — this one feels like hanging out with a friend who’s out there actually doing it.

Dr. Christa Johnson is a Doctor of Chiropractic and the owner of Johnson Adult & Pediatric Chiropractic in Manistee, Michigan. Beyond her practice, she is an accomplished triathlete who has competed in more than twenty full-distance Ironman races and countless half-Ironman events. Most recently, she raced at the Half Ironman in Frankfort, Michigan—a race I also participated in—where her outstanding performance helped secure her qualification for the 2026 Ironman World Championships in France.In this episode, we dive deep into Christa’s journey through Ironman and endurance sports. We cover her training strategies, planning and preparation, equipment choices, nutrition, and most importantly, her passion for the sport. This conversation is packed with valuable insights, and Christa’s energy and dedication shine through at every turn. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just curious about the Ironman lifestyle, this episode is full of knowledge and inspiration you won’t want to miss.

Michael Guzikowski returns to the podcast for his second appearance—and this time, we dive into his passion for music. Beyond being a dedicated driving instructor, husband, and father, Michael is also a hip hop artist with an album released in 2019 and another on the way soon. We talk about what drives his creativity, how music has shaped his life, and the process of putting together his upcoming project. Our conversation also branches into some of today’s cultural issues, offering fresh perspectives and plenty of thought-provoking moments. Whether you’re here for the beats, the stories, or the real talk, this episode delivers all three. Here is the link to his album - https://open.spotify.com/album/7ll5F4TeuTlgIXQS4j36oP?si=PMpus-2-Q0OVnvY0u9Di6QThis episode is supported by:Dwelling RealtyTrail Head Bike shopand is proudly filmed in the Watson Motors Studio.

In this episode, my best friend and business partner Dyllan Walker makes his third appearance on the show. Dyllan is a Process Safety Engineer, Board Member for the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce, President of the Shoreline Cycling Club, experienced gravel bike rider, passionate advocate for outdoor recreation, and my partner in NOMI Racing. He’s also a dedicated volunteer, community leader, and all-around good human.We cover a lot of ground in this conversation, including:A surprising dog attack in the lakeThe behind-the-scenes effort it takes for volunteers to maintain and build trails for cycling, hiking, and cross-country skiingTrail development and the future of our outdoor spacesThe potential community impact of the rail relocation projectLife on the road for work, and the funny, sometimes absurd, moments in airports and on airplanesIt’s a mix of community insight, outdoor adventure, and travel stories from one of my favorite people to talk to.

On this episode I sit down with my good friend Kevin Kott - Kevin is the race director of a new event he is leading to help bring awareness and financial funding to help people in our community fighting cancer and the burden of fighting this disease. This event called Run the Town Pink 5K. He is also an avid runner taking on his first ultra Trail event this summer! After receiving his degree from Michigan State University he found his way back home to Manistee Michigan and now helps people get back on their feet as a physical therapist at Munson Hospital. As a side hustle he also is a pretty rad DJ. Good Friend Great human. Enjoy.This episode is sponsored byWatson MotorsDwelling RealtyTrail Head Bike Shop.

72 Hour Water Fast... It's a process. enjoy.This episode was filmed and recorded in the Watson Motors Studio. Watson Motors is a proud sponsor of the show. To learn more about Watson Motors visit Watsonmotors.com This episode is sponsored by - Dwelling Realty - https://dwellingrealty.com/ 369 River Street Manistee, Michigan 49660 (231) 887-4455