From Loss to Legacy: Michael Scolley on Losing Ridge and Learning to Love Like Ridge

From Loss to Legacy: Michael Scolley on Losing Ridge and Learning to Love Like Ridge

In this episode, Sarah Bachmann sits down with Michael Scolley for a deeply personal conversation about the sudden loss of his son, Ridge, and the journey that followed. Mike shares who Ridge was beyond the tragedy—a joyful, compassionate young boy who loved sports, brought people together, and never hesitated to care for those around him. He reflects on the day everything changed, the unimaginable decisions his family faced, and the grief that continues years later. Mike also talks about the impact of organ donation, the lives Ridge was able to save, and how his family's phrase, "Love Like Ridge," became a reminder of the way Ridge lived every day. Throughout the conversation, he speaks openly about fatherhood, healing, therapy, and learning to appreciate each day after experiencing profound loss. It's an honest conversation about grief, resilience, and carrying a loved one's legacy forward.

From Emergency Calls to Everyday Impact: Brent Kaiser on 41 Years as a Paramedic

In this episode, Sarah Bachmann sits down with Brent Kaiser for a conversation about his 41-year career as a paramedic and educator in Emergency Medical Services. Brent reflects on what first drew him to the profession, the experiences that shaped him throughout his career, and the lessons he learned while helping people through some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Throughout the conversation, Brent shares stories from the field, explains the roles within EMS, and offers practical insight into how emergency situations are handled. He also discusses leadership, teamwork, and the importance of staying calm under pressure. Above all, Brent reflects on the gratitude and perspective that came from a lifetime of service and why helping others continues to be at the center of who he is—even in retirement.

From Tragedy to Two Truths: Carrie Wise on Loss, Forgiveness, and Moving Forward

In this episode, Sarah Bachmann sits down with Carrie Wise for a deeply personal conversation about grief, domestic violence, trauma, and the complicated realities of losing both of her parents within a matter of months. Carrie shares the story of her mother's death, her father's role in it, and the difficult journey that followed as she navigated grief, unanswered questions, and the impact those events had on her life and family. Throughout the conversation, Carrie reflects on what she calls "two truths"—the love she had for her mother and the love she still carried for her father despite what happened. She also discusses forgiveness, PTSD, advocacy, and her desire to help others who may be experiencing domestic violence, trauma, or a form of grief that can feel difficult to explain. It's an honest conversation about loss, resilience, and finding a way forward after unimaginable circumstances.

One Year Later: The Real Feel Insights Team Reflects on Stories, Lessons, and What's Next

In this special one-year anniversary episode, Sarah Bachmann sits down with the Real Feel Insights team—Producer Cassidy Ziegler, Marketing Director Cecilia George, and Financial Manager Megan Streiff—to reflect on the first year of the podcast. Sarah shares how the team came together, the roles each person plays behind the scenes, and the journey of building Real Feel Insights into what it is today. The team also looks back on some of the episodes that left the biggest impact on them, sharing their favorite conversations across several categories and discussing the stories that have stayed with them most. Along the way, they revisit behind-the-scenes moments, bloopers, and memories from the past year, while also introducing the next chapter of Real Feel Insights with Fireside Chats with Sarah. It's a conversation about growth, gratitude, community, and looking ahead to what's next.

From Diagnosis to Determination: Katie Galbrecht on Breast Cancer, Motherhood, and Taking Life One Step at a Time

In this episode, Sarah Bachmann sits down with Katie Galbrecht for an honest conversation about breast cancer, motherhood, and navigating life after a diagnosis. Katie shares how subtle symptoms eventually led to testing, biopsies, and the discovery that she had stage 3B invasive ductal carcinoma at just 30 years old. She reflects on balancing treatment while continuing to work, parent her two daughters, and process the unknowns that came with cancer. Katie also walks through her chemotherapy treatments, the physical and emotional changes she’s experienced, and the support system that has helped carry her through. Throughout the conversation, she speaks openly about taking life one step at a time, staying grounded through difficult moments, and choosing not to become bitter through the process. It’s a thoughtful conversation about resilience, perspective, and finding strength during an ongoing battle.