Answers from the Stairs

In Episode 69 of Answers from the Stairs , we’re joined by Maria Quattrone, a respected leader and entrepreneur known for her impact in real estate and team development. Together, we unpack what it really takes to step into leadership—and sustain it. Leadership isn’t a title, it’s a responsibility. It’s earned in moments of opportunity, refined through alignment, and proven through both results an...

In Episode 68 of Answers from the Stairs , we sit down with Glenn Campbell, the visionary entrepreneur who founded Lids , the iconic headwear and sports apparel company that grew into a global brand recognized in malls and stadiums everywhere. With decades of experience in building businesses, relationships, and teams, Glenn shares the powerful lessons he's learned about faith, resilience, an...

In Episode 67 of Answers from the Stairs , Michael Cirillo brings depth, humor, and vulnerability to a conversation that hits on what many don’t talk about enough—the messy middle between success and struggle. From breaking out of the “cookie-cutter” mold to navigating fatherhood, business, and personal growth, Michael shares the real stories behind the highlight reel. Minute Markers: 00:00 Intro:...

In Episode 66 of Answers from the Stairs , entrepreneur and thought leader Luke Williford shares the real story behind success—the cycles of failure, growth, relationship-building, and relentless faith it takes to get there. From starting small to thinking big, Luke’s journey is a masterclass in how to embrace the process and trust the path. Minute Markers: 00:00 Intro: Meet Luke Williford and the...

In this empowering episode of Answers from the Stairs , Patty Tremonti shares her journey of leadership, service, and personal transformation. From building bridges through collaboration to leading with compassion and conviction, Patty offers insight into what it means to truly drive success—not just in business, but in life. Minute Markers: 00:00 Intro: Welcoming Patty Tremonti and setting the st...

In this powerful episode of Answers from the Stairs , world-renowned coach and fitness expert Hany Rambod joins the conversation to talk about what it really takes to grow—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Known for training champions, Hany opens up about the science behind performance, the complexity of relationships, and the crossroads we all face in pursuit of purpose. Minute Markers: 0...

In this powerful episode of Answers from the Stairs , Ryan Michler—founder of Order of Man —joins the conversation to explore what it truly means to lead yourself, your family, and your mission with clarity and conviction. From personal lessons to practical solutions, Ryan shares how embracing sovereignty and responsibility can transform the way men show up in every area of life. 00:00 Intro: Intr...

In this energizing episode of Answers from the Stairs , Mike Taylor joins the conversation to talk transformation—of mindset, habits, and impact. From breaking old patterns to embracing new disciplines, Mike shares how adopting a fresh perspective can unlock purpose, prosperity, and powerful community change. Minute Markers: 00:00 Intro: Opening up a conversation about growth, grit, and reinventio...

In this powerhouse episode of Answers from the Stairs , Mike Calhoun shares his journey of leadership, discipline, and legacy-building across high-performance environments. From breaking patterns to branding excellence, Mike dives into what it takes to truly pave the way—for yourself, your team, and the next generation. 00:00 Intro: Kicking off a conversation rooted in growth, leadership, and high...

In this meaningful episode of Answers from the Stairs , Jim Sabellico shares his journey of discovering purpose, shifting perspective, and choosing a life built on service and impact. From breaking unhealthy patterns to stepping fully into a calling, Jim opens up about the decisions and disciplines that have shaped who he is today. 00:00 Intro: Setting the tone for a conversation about meaning, mi...

In this powerful episode of Answers from the Stairs , Robert Frehafer joins the show to explore what it truly means to lead, protect, and guide others through trust, integrity, and long-term vision. From the weight of decision-making to the responsibility of leadership, Robert shares the lessons he’s learned through his unique journey of guardianship—both personal and professional. Minute Markers:...

In this special episode of Answers from the Stairs , Chris sits down with his daughter, Avery Vester, just days before one of life’s biggest moments—her wedding. With honesty, warmth, and reflection, they explore the milestones that shape us, the lessons learned along the way, and the beauty found in stepping into the next chapter. 00:00 Intro: A father-daughter moment before the walk down the ais...

In this thought-provoking episode of Answers from the Stairs , we sit down with culture expert and thought leader Jay Doran to unpack the powerful relationship between personal identity, leadership, and organizational culture. Through raw conversation and real-life insight, Jay shares how our values, upbringing, and mindset shape not only who we are—but the environments we create. 00:00 Intro: Int...

In this powerful episode of Answers from the Stairs , Rob Dayton joins the conversation to discuss the weight of executive decisions—both in business and in life. From trusting your instincts to rediscovering identity, this discussion dives into the challenges and triumphs that come with making high-stakes choices. 00:00 Intro: Setting the stage for a deep dive into leadership, purpose, and faith-...

In this insightful episode of Answers from the Stairs , Brian Hess joins the conversation to break down the power of resilience, perspective, and the lessons life throws our way. From overcoming challenges to embracing unexpected wisdom, we explore what it means to truly "catch and land" the experiences that shape us. Minute Markers: 00:00 Intro: Setting the stage for a conversation on l...

In this episode of Answers from the Stairs , we welcome Todd Smith to explore the dynamic journey of personal and professional growth—comparing it to the art of surfing life’s waves. Todd shares his experiences, insights, and hard-earned lessons on navigating the highs and lows of success with resilience and purpose. [10:20] Get Deep into Yourself – Todd discusses the importance of self-awareness...

In this episode of Answers From The Stairs , host Chris Vester sits down with Scott Gunnel for an insightful conversation about education, curiosity, and the lessons learned through both triumph and adversity. 🔹 00:00 – Intro Chris introduces Scott Gunnel and sets the stage for a deep dive into his experiences and perspectives. 🔹 10:33 – Educational Work Experience Scott shares how his journey t...

On this final episode of Answers from the Stairs, Chris talks about his year-long journey of making his inspirational videos, finding time to make them, and what motivated him to start in the first place. Topics include evaluating our own daily habits and routines, how to adapt and keep a healthy morning routine, expanding your exposure to information, why stimulating both physical and mental deve...

This week's episode of Answers from the Stairs is a special compilation of Chris's most important messages and guidance. Chris talks about how conflict is necessary, personal development as a team activity, and his experiences with this and bringing people together. This is important in order to build accountability and transparency within your team or community. Once the individual team...

In this episode, Chris talks about On this week's episode, Chris talks about the real reason people train. Sometimes, there is no competition or show. Completing challenges for ourselves with the goal of keeping a routine while also maintaining physical and mental health, also gives us a heightened sense of mental gain and being able to overcome any obstacles that life may throw at us. Key po...

In this episode, Chris talks about the book, "Ready, Fire, Aim", and how humans as a whole are either hoarders or sharers. This changes how we view the universe, the other people in our lives, and our contributions to society. Always make sure you're treating others how you want to be treated. There's plenty of wealth and kindness to go around. Key points:Human's either vi...

In this episode, Chris talks about an idea that is not discussed enough among leaders; the thoughts of "I don't have time to be down" or "I'm not allowed to be depressed". Even leaders in an organization or community can have self-doubts. At these times, it's important to remember to stay vulnerable because you may have more in common with others than you think. ...

Grow, Contribute, RepeatIn this week's episode, inspired by a podcast interview with Fallon Taylor, Chris talks about personally growing and contributing as a leader. Sometimes the accomplishment isn't the most impressive; but the determination to continue finding sources for growth. Having a service mindset is part of our core values as human beings. Key points:Finding sources of growin...

In this episode, Chris talks about differentiating commitments from the strategies used to achieve said goals/commitments. If you're not achieving your goals as you want, look at where you feel short. Was it in the goal or the strategy? Key points: People are prone to be "married to the goal, but dating the strategy" Most times, we're committed to a certain goal we want and tha...

In this episode, Chris talks about taking responsibility for the positive things that happen in our lives, and not just looking at it as pure luck. Learn from your achievements just as much as you do from your mistakes. Key points:How the term "personal responsibility" is primarily associated with mistakes and negative notionsIf every success is luck, there is no accountability, and this...