I sit down with creator and father Jason Dunnigan, known as The Modern Dad, to trace his journey from an adoption story and years of bullying to a grounded sense of identity and self-worth. Jason opens up about what it took to stop chasing approval, start trusting his own voice, and share it with the world.

We explore how he turned painful labels into fuel for service, how he set boundaries around online life while staying authentic, and the practices that keep him centered as a partner and parent. Jason talks candidly about belonging and the moment he chose to define himself from the inside out rather than by anyone else’s script.

Listeners will hear practical advice on reframing origin stories, building resilience through self-compassion, and creating content that helps others feel seen. If you have ever carried shame from your past or wondered how to show up online without losing yourself, Jason’s path proves that courage, consistency, and heart can turn old wounds into a platform for good.

Episode 25: I sit down with master barber and entrepreneur Matthew Campbell, mapping his journey from a small-town childhood in Utah to owning several bustling barbershops. He walks us through the long nights of self-taught marketing, the moments he nearly lost everything during economic downturns, and the mindset shift that helped him transform setbacks into stepping-stones for growth.

We explore how Matthew kept his family afloat while scaling to multiple locations, the leadership lessons he learned mentoring new barbers, and his commitment to making every shop a safe space for conversation and community. Matthew shares candid stories about balancing fatherhood with business expansion, and the mental health practices that keep his creative edge sharp.

Listeners will hear practical advice on bootstrapping a dream, building a brand rooted in authenticity, and creating opportunities for others even when resources feel scarce. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or chasing a fresh start in any field, Matthew’s story proves that steady hands, a clear vision, and unwavering grit can turn a single chair into a movement.

Episode 24: I sit down once again with John Rohbock, picking up the thread of his journey after excommunication from the FLDS church. John reflects on the years that followed our first conversation, sharing how he confronted lingering anger, rebuilt fragile family ties, and found room in his heart for forgiveness without erasing the past. He describes the awkward first reunions with siblings, the hard-won peace that came from naming his grief, and the practical rituals—journaling, service, and daily self-inquiry—that grounded him when old doubts resurfaced.

Together we explore how John’s search for belonging evolved into a life of intentional community and purpose. He explains the difference between forgiving and reconciling, reveals how he raises his children with openness after growing up in secrecy, and offers candid advice for anyone feeling cut adrift by circumstances beyond their control. If Episode 22 moved you, this follow-up goes deeper, showing resilience maturing into wisdom and purpose growing into a future John once thought impossible.

In Episode 23, I sit down with Mark McCormack, who opens up about his quiet but profound departure from the LDS church—and the personal awakening that followed. As the oldest sibling in a devout family, Mark grew up committed to his faith, even playing a pivotal role in saving his father’s life. But as he approached fatherhood himself, something inside began to stir. The beliefs that once anchored him no longer fit the man he was becoming.

Mark shares the inner conflict of honoring the past while making room for growth, the emotional cost of leaving a spiritual system that shaped his identity, and the courage it took to walk away; not in rebellion, but in search of something real. We talk about what it means to be a father guided by intuition rather than obligation, how to hold compassion for family members still inside the faith, and the ongoing process of building a life grounded in integrity and personal truth.

If you’ve ever wrestled with inherited beliefs or questioned your role in a system you didn’t choose, Mark’s story will resonate. Tune in for a vulnerable and inspiring conversation about belief, transformation, and becoming your own compass.

Episode 22: I sit down with John Rohbock, whose life was turned upside down the day he was excommunicated from the FLDS church. In one moment he lost his faith community, his sense of family, and the purpose that had guided him since childhood. John opens up about the shock of sudden isolation, the grief of watching loved ones turn away, and the lonely nights when doubt seemed louder than hope.Together we unpack how he navigated the void—learning to question long-held beliefs, piecing together a new spiritual foundation, and discovering unexpected allies on his journey back to wholeness. John shares raw stories of rebuilding trust, forging authentic relationships outside the confines of the church, and finding a deeper purpose rooted in personal truth rather than imposed doctrine.If you’ve ever felt cut adrift by circumstances beyond your control, John’s resilience will resonate. Tune in to hear how losing everything became the catalyst for a life built on freedom, integrity, and hard-won self-belief. You won’t want to miss this moving conversation.

Episode 21: In this electrifying conversation, I sit down with entrepreneur and men’s group founder Jimmy Rex, who turned his passion for personal development into We Are The They, a powerful community designed to empower men through brotherhood, accountability, and transformative growth. Jimmy shares how his own entrepreneurial journey led him to realize that true fulfillment isn’t just about success, but also about lifting others along the way. Join me, as we explore the principles behind We Are The They, including the importance of building unwavering support systems, breaking down emotional barriers, and redefining what it means to be a man today. Whether you’re seeking to elevate your personal goals, align yourself with purpose-driven peers, or learn how community can catalyze life-changing transformations, Jimmy’s story will inspire and challenge you to embrace your highest potential.

Episode 20: In this inspiring conversation, I sit down with Steve Mann, who recounts his extraordinary life journey—from moving his entire family to Africa to help fight the AIDS epidemic, to adopting two children, and now channeling his passion for storytelling into a forthcoming book. Titled Stories That Shape Us: A Guide to Passing Down Wisdom, Joy, and Love to the Next Generation (slated for a Summer 2025 release), Steve’s work explores how personal stories can connect us across generations and cultures. Join me, Thomas, as we delve into how his global experiences informed his commitment to service, the joys and challenges of adoption, and the power of narrative in building empathy and legacy. Whether you’re seeking to enrich family traditions, understand the impact of global volunteerism, or simply harness the transformative power of storytelling, this episode offers invaluable insights on how to live—and share—your own meaningful story.

Episode 19: In this deeply personal episode, I sit down with Brian Smith, who opens up about growing up feeling he never truly fit the mold others had set for him. Brian explains how these early insecurities seeped into his marriage, leading to struggles that ultimately ended in divorce. Left to rebuild, Brian discovered that before finding fulfillment in any relationship, he first had to learn who he really was—and not just who others expected him to be. Join us as we discuss the challenges of shedding old identities, the courage it takes to walk away from what no longer serves you, and the liberating process of finding yourself on your own terms. Whether you’re navigating relationships, going through life transitions, or simply seeking more authenticity, Brian’s story offers insights on reclaiming your truth and stepping confidently into your future.

Episode 18: I’m joined by Dustin Pederson, a self-described “natural teacher” whose passion for helping others has led him into both fitness training and life coaching. Dustin shares how his early experiences teaching and mentoring set the stage for his thriving coaching career, giving him the unique ability to guide clients toward their personal best—inside and outside the gym. We’ll dive into his transition from hobbyist teacher to professional coach, the mindset shifts that fuel his success, and the life lessons he’s learned along the way. Whether you’re curious about pursuing fitness as a career or simply want tips on fostering a growth mindset, Dustin’s insights will inspire you to unlock your potential and help others do the same. Tune in for an energizing conversation on passion, perseverance, and the power of teaching from the heart.

Episode 17: I’m joined by Peter Puertas, a naturally gifted barber who discovered his calling early on and turned it into a thriving career. With a humble spirit and unwavering dedication, Peter has risen to become one of the few chosen to represent major hairstyling brands worldwide. Listen in as Peter shares how he stayed true to his passion, overcame obstacles, and remained grounded throughout his ascent. If you’re looking for inspiration to pursue your own talents—or curious about the behind-the-scenes of a barber’s journey—this conversation is packed with insights, tips, and plenty of motivation.

In this episode, I sit down with self-made millionaire Gage Heward to explore the formative experiences that shaped his unrelenting ambition. Gage dives into the story of his upbringing, shedding light on the early influences and personal drive that propelled him toward success at such a young age. We talk about the challenges he overcame, the mindset required to dream big, and the strategies he used to build his impressive empire from the ground up. Tune in to hear Gage’s inspiring story and discover practical insights for cultivating the focus, resilience, and vision you need to turn your own dreams into reality.

Episode 15: I sit down with Lauren and Matt Griner, experienced marriage counselors and founders of GrindTogetherCo.com, to delve into the core principles of cultivating a thriving marriage. Drawing on their personal and professional experiences, the Griners share practical tools for enhancing communication, maintaining emotional intimacy, and navigating conflict with resilience. Our conversation highlights the importance of teamwork, vulnerability, and consistent effort in building a lasting partnership. Whether you’re newly married or looking to strengthen an established relationship, this episode offers valuable insights for anyone seeking deeper connection and unity in their journey together. Tune in for an empowering discussion that can help transform your approach to love and commitment.

Episode 14: I sit down with Jared Hays to explore his powerful journey of overcoming addiction and battling thoughts of suicide. Jared opens up about his struggles with alcohol use and the darkest moments of his life, sharing how he found the strength to break free and build a life rooted in purpose and hope. Now, with nearly six years of sobriety, Jared reflects on the tools and mindset that helped him persevere through unimaginable challenges. This heartfelt conversation is a testament to the power of resilience, self-discovery, and the human spirit. Tune in for an inspiring story of redemption and healing.

Episode 13: I sit down with Zach Bradshaw to explore his journey of transformation, resilience, and self-discovery. Zach reflects on a troubled childhood and the pivotal role a stay at a boys ranch played in changing the trajectory of his life. He shares the ongoing challenges of raising children, navigating decisions around substance use, and his choice to join a men’s group as part of his path to growth. This conversation dives into the complexities of personal transformation and highlights Zach’s commitment to becoming his best self while facing life’s trials. Tune in for an inspiring story of healing, perseverance, and the pursuit of purpose.

Episode 12:  I welcome Jeffrey Mann for a deeply honest and raw conversation about the lasting effects of childhood trauma. Jeffrey courageously opens up about how early experiences shaped his adult life, creating patterns and challenges that he’s actively working to understand and heal. Through vulnerability and self-awareness, Jeffrey shares his ongoing journey to confront these shadows and become the person he aspires to be. Join us for an inspiring look at his process of self-discovery, accountability, and transformation—a testament to the power of healing and the resilience of the human spirit.

Episode 11, I  sit down with Kandi Bateman as she opens up about her incredible life journey. Growing up within the FLDS, Kandi’s world was shaped by the teachings of a deeply restrictive religion and life in a polygamist marriage. But her story doesn’t end there. In a gripping conversation, Kandi shares how she faced an even greater battle—cancer—and how it challenged her faith, courage, and resilience. Join us as we explore her path through the hardships of indoctrination, health struggles, and her powerful journey toward personal freedom and self-empowerment.

Episode 10:  I, Thomas Dockstader, take you through my personal transformation—how I went from being deeply indoctrinated in a religious cult to breaking away from those beliefs and rebuilding my life. After leaving the FLDS at 18, I was lost, struggling to find a belief system that resonated with me. This episode explores how I shed old patterns, overcame personal struggles, and found spiritual clarity. Join me as I share the insights and practices that helped me redefine my path to true freedom and self-discovery.

In this deeply personal and emotional episode of The Chi Codes, I sit down with my mother, Deborah Dockstader, to share her extraordinary life story. From a challenging childhood to marrying my father and joining the FLDS cult, Deborah’s journey is one of relentless perseverance. Over the years, she raised nine children while navigating the heartache of my father taking a second wife—her own sister—and later, the grief of losing him at the early age of 53. Her strength has been tested time and again, including watching her children struggle with addiction, and one son’s 20-year incarceration. Now facing the final chapter of her life with liver failure, Deborah remains a symbol of unwavering resilience, never giving up despite the many obstacles she faced. This episode delves into her experiences, the lessons she’s learned, and how she continues to inspire those around her. Tune in for an intimate conversation about love, loss, and the enduring power of the human spirit.

In this insightful episode of The Chi Codes, I sit down with Heather Peterson, founder of Pain Free for Good, who shares her incredible journey from chronic illness to wellness through the discovery of the mind-body connection. After years of battling overwhelming medical issues with no relief from traditional medicine, Heather began addressing her past traumas, and her physical healing followed. Now a coach helping others on similar journeys, Heather discusses the powerful link between emotional healing and physical health. She also shares remarkable stories from her own life and her clients, shedding light on how transformative inner work can lead to lasting, pain-free living. Tune in as we explore how deep emotional healing holds the key to physical recovery and true well-being.

In this introspective episode of The Chi Codes, I dive deep into the transformative power of intuition and how it can guide us through life's most challenging moments. We often overlook that inner voice, dismissing it as irrational or unimportant. But intuition is our soul's way of communicating with us, nudging us towards paths that align with our true selves. I share personal stories of when listening to my intuition has made all the difference and discuss how we can all cultivate a stronger connection to this inner guide. Whether it's navigating personal challenges, making life-altering decisions, or simply finding peace in the chaos, our intuition is a powerful ally. Join me as I explore how to trust, nurture, and act on our intuitive insights to live a more authentic and fulfilling life.