22 Gary Perala - Service, Grit & the Human Spirit of Tour Da Yoop

In this episode of Wealth Is a Choice, James sits down with Gary Perala to explore the deeper meaning behind one of the most unique endurance events in the country: Tour Da Yoop, a 10-day, 1,200-mile cycling journey around Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. But this conversation quickly becomes about much more than cycling. Gary shares how Tour Da Yoop has evolved from an ambitious ride into something profoundly human. A place where people “start off as strangers and end up as family.” Together, James and Gary reflect on: The power of endurance events to transform people mentally and emotionally Why Tour Da Yoop celebrates humanity and support, not just speed or competition Stories of riders overcoming fear, self-doubt, injury, and impossible odds The incredible role of the SAG teams, volunteers, and Lions Club members who make the event possible How challenge, service, and community help people discover they are “capable of more than they realize” Gary also shares powerful insights about: Leadership through service The mission and culture of the Lions Club Why volunteering and helping others improves our own mental health and well-being The importance of positivity, resilience, and “love you for you” in today’s world Throughout the episode, the conversation returns to a core idea: The greatest victories in life are often not about finishing first, but about helping others finish at all. The episode is filled with incredible stories from the Tour Da Yoop community, including riders sacrificing their own performance to support others, emotional breakthroughs on Brockway Mountain, and the life-changing perspective that comes from doing something you once thought was impossible. As always, the conversation closes with the show’s signature question: Is wealth a choice? Gary’s answer is deeply rooted in health, mindset, relationships, and personal growth. He explains that while money matters, true wealth is also found in community, positivity, service, and having the health and perspective to enjoy life fully. If you’ve ever wondered what people are truly capable of—or how challenge and community can change lives—this is an episode you won’t forget. Learn more about JP Studinger Wealth Advisors: https://www.jpstudinger.com/ Learn more about Tour Da Yoop: https://www.tourdayoopeh.com/ #GaryPerala #TourDaYoop #WealthIsAChoice #Cycling #Endurance #HumanSpirit #Leadership #Service #LionsClub #Michigan #UpperPeninsula #MentalStrength #Community #PersonalGrowth #HealthIsWealth #Adventure #Volunteerism #Resilience