What fuels the creative spark of a children's book author who has brought over 80 books to life? Join us as we dive into the enchanting world of Will Hillenbrand, where dreams and childhood memories weave together to inspire beloved stories. From a red pedal-powered fire truck that ignited his imagination to the whims of a recurring dream that shaped his latest project, Will's journey is filled with wonder and nostalgia. Listen as he shares his adventures, including a captivating visit to Singapore to engage young minds in his creative process, and the sentimental tale of his first real car, a Volkswagen Squareback, that played a pivotal role in his courtship with his wife.

But the episode doesn't stop at whimsy and nostalgia. Strap in for a wild cross-country road trip from Cincinnati to California and back, filled with mechanical mishaps, camaraderie, and unexpected encounters. We recount the harrowing yet heartwarming saga of a malfunctioning car, the kindness of strangers, and a motley crew's journey through the heart of America. From the missing second gear to blowing a rod near Las Vegas, and a bizarre late-night cafe stop, you'll be on the edge of your seat. The story culminates in a successful resolution as a new car paves the way for the group's unforgettable adventure to its thrilling end.

You can find Will's books at your favorite book seller. His website is https://www.willhillenbrand.com/

I hit the virtual asphalt with my friend Mike Martin, memories of a classic Ford Mustang and the twists and turns of the Pacific Coast Highway fuel our conversation. Mike, a retired family businessman, breathes life into tales of manual transmissions and life lessons. We chat about the nostalgia that wraps around the steering wheel of his first car, and the family road trip that is etched into his heart—revisiting stops like Hearst Castle and the towering Redwoods.

The road we travel takes a compelling turn as Mike recounts the remarkable growth of his family's industrial metal fabrication business. From its modest beginnings to becoming a 4-generation family business. Mike's reflections on innovation, community spirit, and his father's post-World War II vision illuminate the legacy that continues to drive the company forward, now settled in the city of Florence, Kentucky.

Finally, he shares the perfect road trip companion—none other than the legendary Paul McCartney. Imagine the songs we'd sing, the stories swapped, and the talk about Paul's Corvette. Mike graciously gives a shout out to me and an invitation to the listeners to keep riding shotgun with us at dantheroadtripguy.com, ensures the journey never truly ends. So here's to the open road, the memories we make, and the tales we tell along the way.

Picture yourself embarking on a transformative journey, not just across landscapes, but through the very essence of life's purpose and meaning. Denis Beausejour, a man who shifted gears from a high-flying corporate career at Procter & Gamble to the profound calling of being a pastor. Our conversation cruises through Denis's captivating life story, from navigating a bone-chilling road trip in a vintage Volkswagen Beetle to the seismic awakening that rerouted his path towards spirituality and reflection. Along the way, Denis imparts the wisdom he's gathered on the road less traveled, a journey that he's encapsulated in his heartfelt memoir, "The Biggest Idea Ever."

As we peel back the layers of Denis's corporate tenure, we uncover the entrepreneurial spirit that propelled him through the ranks and the immense insights he gained. Yet, it was the aftermath of an earthquake in Japan that shook the foundation of his life, steering him toward a new horizon where faith and purpose intersect. Denis's pivot from the business boardroom to the pulpit is not just a career change; it's an odyssey that has taken him across continents, nurturing his family, his flock, and ultimately, his own soul.

Strap in for a philosophical road trip as we venture beyond the confines of routine life, tackling the concept of bucket lists, the thrill of a dream drive across America in a Porsche 911, and the timeless allure of a historical travel companion. This episode is a map to living with intention and presence, as Denis shares how to start your day, and the art of slowing down—lessons mirrored in Denis's pilgrimage on the Camino with his wife. Whether you're seeking direction on your personal highway or just a passenger enjoying the view, this episode offers a compass to guide you towards a life of meaning. And for those eager to navigate the roads that Denis has traveled, stick around for a chance to win a copy of his book.

You can find Denis at Denis Beauséjour (denisbeausejour.com).

Be sure to pick up a copy of his book "The Biggest Idea Ever" on his website or your favorite book seller.