Fowler and Friends

Episode 59: Oscar Ortiz

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 arrangements, and life after loss in a system that is already overwhelmed. Oscar shares how what started with heartbreak and a kayak fundraiser grew into a movement that now raises over a million dollars a year, funds research, supports families in tangible ways, and brings together donors, partners, and families who refuse to look away. We also talk about the push for better science, better systems, and how tools like AI could help speed up research and improve outcomes. More than anything, this episode is a reminder that support has to become action. If this conversation moves you, learn about Sebastian Strong, share the mission, and give if you can. Once you understand what these families are carrying, it becomes a lot harder to stand on the sidelines. DONATE HERE: https://secure.qgiv.com/event/kayakingthekeysforhope2026/account/2347415

Episode 58: Sam Hamlin

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 is about what it looks like to invest in the builders of tomorrow. Sam is already showing the habits, discipline, and mindset that carry forward—and it’s a reminder that these things don’t just appear later in life. They’re built early. We speak about standards, development, and of course... running!

Episode 57: Erich Schick

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 just work—but outperform. More than anything, this episode is about ownership—of your environment, your standards, and the way you show up. Erich shares what he’s learned about resilience, service, and building something that lasts, whether that’s through business, relationships, or the environments you create. There’s a lot here for anyone trying to rebuild, level up, or think bigger about what’s possible. www.airbutler.co https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvlPZzM2Ccs

Episode 56: Mikayla Erskine

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 helped her process relationships, heal, and better understand herself. This one goes deeper than just relationships—it’s about awareness, responsibility, and how you choose to show up for the people in your life.

Episode 55: Taylor Fowler

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 build something that actually lasts. We also talk through what makes this stuff feel approachable (especially if you’re starting from zero), how to stay consistent without overthinking it, and why blending different styles of movement can keep you feeling strong, balanced, and injury-free. At the end of the day, it’s really about creating a foundation you can rely on—physically and mentally—and building a life that feels good to live.