Fowler and Friends

In Episode 63, Jake sits down with Kristina Gonzales, a second-grade teacher and natural bodybuilder, for a conversation about teaching, competing, faith, and what it looks like to keep showing up when the work gets hard. We get into the discipline it takes to step on stage, the patience it takes to lead a classroom, and how Kristina’s faith helps keep her grounded through both. This one is about...

In Episode 62, Jake sits down with Kevin Murray for a conversation about creativity, work, and what it looks like to slowly build something real. Kevin’s story moves from playing lead guitar in the Columbus band Midnight Coast in high school, to working as a graphic designer, getting laid off, and eventually turning a love for baking into a growing bagel business. This one is not just about bagels...

Jake sits down with Dale Crowley for a conversation about language, horror, and history.  Dale brings deep knowledge and real passion as he gets into the roots of language, the influence of ancient cultures on modern English, connections to linguistics, and the way stories carry meaning across time. They talk about H.P. Lovecraft, weird fiction, cosmic horror, and why humans are so drawn to storie...

In Episode 60, Hop, Mitch, and Jake split the conversation between two things that sound different on the surface but actually connect pretty deeply: using AI as a personal coaching tool, and building stronger relationships through honest communication. In the first half, we break down Hop’s GPT Coaching Guide and what it looks like to build an AI coach that actually knows your life, goals, strugg...

Oscar Ortiz is the father of Sebastian Ortiz, and this conversation centers on how Sebastian Strong is turning unimaginable loss into real help for families facing childhood cancer. We get into the organization’s Navigator Program and why it matters so much—because families are often left trying to navigate diagnosis, treatment, insurance battles, financial strain, end-of-life decisions, funeral a...

Sam Hamlin is only 11 years old, but the level of dedication he brings to running is real. From his first cross country race in second grade to breaking school records now, this conversation is less about times and more about how he approaches the work. We get into how he handles fatigue, how he thinks during races, and the standards he holds himself to every day. More than anything, this episode...

Erich Schick’s story is wild—in the best way. From a troubled start and a near-fatal motorcycle crash in Nepal, to building a real estate and hospitality operation across multiple countries, this is a conversation about what it actually takes to turn chaos into something structured and sustainable. We get into how he built Air Butler, scaled to dozens of properties, and created systems that don’t...

Most people think love is something that happens to them. This conversation with Mikayla challenged that in a big way. We talk about what it looks like to take ownership of how you love—romantically, in friendships, and even in how you treat yourself. Not as a feeling you wait for, but as something you actively practice and build over time. We also get into her journey with poetry and how writing...

This one’s a special episode for me—getting to sit down with my wife Tay and talk about something that’s become a huge part of how we live: simple, intentional movement. We get into how yoga, strength work, and just moving your body daily can completely shift your mindset, your energy, and how you show up in your life. Nothing complicated, nothing perfect—just learning to listen to your body and b...

After two years of podcasting and personal growth, Jake is clarifying the mission. Fowler & Friends is becoming more focused and intentional: pursuing truth, elevating disciplined builders across Ohio, and documenting the innovators shaping the state’s future. In this episode, Jake shares the books, conversations, and hard lessons that pushed him to shed self-doubt, raise his standards, and al...

Episode 53 features Host Jake Fowler's cousin Hank Hehman. Hank, like the best of stories, spreads cheer and joy everywhere he goes. In this episode we talk about how the stories we grow up on shape our values, identity, and leadership. We talk Disney’s Renaissance era, superheroes as Americas mythology , childhood lessons like The Boy Who Cried Wolf , and why modern cartoons feel different t...

Unlock the secrets to transforming injury, performance, and personal growth through the mindset and strategies Andrew Hartje of Hart and Hustle. If you're tired of feeling stuck—whether battling pain, pushing limits in athletics, or juggling a busy life—this episode reveals how leadership, discipline, and purpose can elevate every aspect of your health and success. Jake dives deep with Dr. An...

In this reflective episode, Jake Fowler takes a solo journey through his podcasting experience, sharing insights from his two-year journey and 50 episodes. He discusses his initial aspirations, the challenges of starting a podcast in a saturated market, and the personal growth he's experienced along the way. Jake also touches on the importance of discipline, the value of persistence, and his...

In the milestone 50th episode of Fowler and Friends, host Jake Fowler dives into the cognitive side of health and wellness, exploring the impact of AI on our brains. Drawing from a recent study by Dr. Peter Attia, Jake discusses the sensational headlines about AI's effects on cognitive engagement and breaks down the science behind it. He also shares his personal experiences with creatine supp...

Chris Erskine (Jake's father-in-law) returns! Passions of the heart are explored and discussed as they try and figure out how to balance fatherhood and family life. From the thrill of triathlons to the serenity of surfing, Chris shares his journey of self-discovery and the lessons learned along the way. Tune in for thoughtful discussion on finding fulfillment through adventure and the importa...

Taylor returns again! The husband and wife duo are back to explore the challenges and joys of raising two young children, the transition to becoming a stay-at-home parent, and the journey of rediscovering personal passions like yoga and fitness. Taylor shares candid insights into her experiences with postpartum recovery (for the second time), the importance of self-care, and the launch of her new...

In Episode 47, Jake Fowler and Samantha Bloomfield dive into a candid conversation about personal growth, mindfulness, and the challenges of maintaining self-discipline. Samantha shares her journey of self-care and recovery post-surgery, while Jake reflects on the importance of self-trust and patience. Together, they explore the nuances of balancing personal goals with life's unexpected turns...

Join host Jake Fowler for an impromptu solo episode where he dives into a candid discussion on men's health, the impact of superhero physiques on body image, and the allure of steroids among young men. Jake shares personal insights and experiences, offering a thoughtful take on the pressures of modern fitness standards. Plus, get a sneak peek into upcoming Marvel releases and Jake's take...

AHEHEHEHEHE! HA! HA! HA! HA! Peter Peter pumpkin eater had a wife and couldn't keep her. HAHAHAHA! Silly spider boy sits down with ME! Poor spider was just playing at being a spider. Sitting in a web of LIES HAHAHAHAHA.  Anyways in all seriousness shout out to Columbus actor Anthony Dain for doing this Halloween episode where he dresses up as Peter Parker Spider-Man and host Jake Fowler dress...

Host Jake Fowler and friend Robert Gould dive into a nostalgic conversation about the evolution of social media, reflecting on how platforms like Twitter have transformed from casual spaces for humor to serious arenas for discourse. They explore the impact of pop culture, the challenges of maintaining friendships post-college, and the complexities of navigating today's media landscape. Join t...

Join host Jake Fowler in conversation with his old friend Dana Kiger as she shares her journey through college to become a fitness professional and most recently, to become a dedicated Ironman competitor. Discover how Dana's passion for fitness evolved through her experiences in group fitness, personal training, and triathlon training. Listen as she discusses the challenges and triumphs of pr...

In this episode, host Jake Fowler sits down with Lauren Ashley, a passionate photographer who shares her journey from hobbyist to professional. They discuss the challenges and joys of capturing life's most precious moments, from weddings to newborn shoots. Lauren opens up about her inspirations, the importance of volunteering, and her goals for expanding her wedding photography business. Tune...

In this real and raw episode, join host Jake Fowler as he sits down with Marisel and her son Jake, a resilient 14-year-old who has bravely battled cancer twice. From the initial diagnosis to the emotional journey of treatment and recovery, Marisel and Jake share their inspiring story. Discover how they navigate the challenges of life post-treatment, the importance of mental health support, and the...

In this episode, The Ballz Deep Boyz dive deep into the intricacies of personal and business growth. From the importance of first principles in decision-making to the hurdles of consumerism and sustainable practices, we explore how to navigate the complexities of modern life. Discover strategies for overcoming procrastination, the power of intentional living, and the role of community in fostering...

In this episode, host Jake Fowler takes you behind the curtain of his Hybrid Training Program Volume 1 —a 12-week system designed to help you get stronger and faster without sacrificing balance. He covers everything from the mindset you need to approach training, to injury prevention strategies , and the core principles that make this program effective. You’ll hear exactly who this program is buil...