Code of the Craftsmen

Jay and Ben sit down with Joe Hayek, President & CEO of multi billion dollar Worthington Industries. They discuss what it truly takes to advance your career, and how to lead in a way that makes a meaningful impact on people along the way. They ask the kinds of questions many young professionals think about but rarely get to ask leaders of this caliber. -What CEOs truly look for in young professionals-What makes someone promotable versus stagnant-Why so many people fail to reach their full potential in their careers-How to stand out in a competitive workforce by elevating others-What it actually took to become CEO of a multi-billion-dollar company-Why focusing on the journey matters more than chasing a title-How to decide when to persevere - and when it’s time to pivotFollow @codeofthecraftsmen for more!Beat by @Jaecea_ on IG

Jay and Ben sit down with an upcoming master’s graduate (Jude Prophete of American University) to unpack the pressure of leaving school and choosing a path. Jude’s upcoming transition brings them back to their own graduation- an uncertain season that ultimately led them to start this podcast.Topics covered: -The pressure to achieve success instantly, and how to resist it-Chasing impact over accolades -Staying disciplined in a world full of constant distractions-Choosing excellence and committing to rise above your current circumstances-Jude’s journey of perseverance and growth, rising from poverty-An encouraging message to the Miami community that shaped Jude’s early lifeBe sure to follow @codeofthecraftsmenJoin the craftsmen family by subscribing to our free email newsletter list on www.codeofthecraftsmen.comBeat by @jaecea_ on IG

Jay Briggs and Ben Cowan sit down with Valandria Smith Lash - 24-year old CEO and Founder of Course Culture - an organic body cream business that she launched as a college student with the help of a large investment from her University president. Valandria has been recognized as a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree (Class of 2023) and named Young Woman Entrepreneur of the Year by Aviatra Accelerators (2024). Based at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, Coarse Culture continues to grow its reach — including availability on Amazon.Be sure to follow @codeofthecraftsmenJoin the craftsmen family by subscribing to our free email newsletter list on www.codeofthecraftsmen.com Beat by @jaecea_ on IG

Aldo Cicchini, international concert violinist and social media phenom, discusses how a lifetime dedicated to his craft, bold risk taking - from crossing continents alone as an 18-year-old, and a relentless focus on the journey over the destination shaped the music millions now hear. In this episode, you will also learn about:Aldo’s creative process behind viral videos seen by millionsWhy your unique traits can become your greatest strengths - and even help you go viral too! Methods to perform your best when the pressure is highestThe power of creating joy for others through your craftHow accidentally going viral from apartment concerts changed his lifeStrategies for fighting perfectionism and embracing progressHow to find the path you’re meant to be on—even if it’s unconventionalHow to prepare for career defining moments We'd love it if you follow us @codeofthecraftsmen on instagram or YouTube!You can also join our free email newsletter on www.codeofthecraftsmen.comBeat by @Jaecea_ on IG

Ben Cowan & Jay Briggs Jr. interview Dr. Laura Schlesinger of SiriusXM about her journey to becoming one of radio’s most influential voices. She dives into what it really takes to grow, make better choices, stay focused, and create a life of purpose. Whether you’re feeling lost, ambitious, or just figuring it all out, this episode is packed with honest advice and clarity for the road ahead.Follow us @codeofthecraftsmen on IGJoin our free newsletter on www.codeofthecraftsmen.comBeat by @Jaecea_ on IG

What are the secrets of longevity, purpose, and fulfillment? What would be most important to you at age 102? Drawing from over a century of wisdom, Dr. Howard Tucker, the world’s oldest practicing doctor at 102, shares rare insights shaped by a lifetime of experiences in medicine and by living a full, rich life. Discover how his ongoing pursuit of mastering his craft has kept him “not only alive, but also vibrant.” Topics covered in this episode:-Why Dr. Tucker NEVER considered retiring -Passing the Ohio Bar Exam at age 67 -What is most important at age 102?-The most impactful experiences of Dr. Tucker’s life-Dr. Tucker’s advice to younger generations -The power of pursuing a craft throughout one’s entire life -The critical role of building deep, meaningful relationships in both life and medicine -Why age should never be a barrier to setting new goals and embracing new passions.-Reflecting on being an inspiration on how to live a meaningful life Episodes you may also like: #14. The Inner Development of Leaders: Advice from Dr. Jeremy Hunter, Viral TED Speaker & Professor at Peter F. Drucker School of ManagementFollow us @codeofthecraftsmen on IGJoin our free newsletter on www.codeofthecraftsmen.com Beat by @Jaecea_ on IG

Dr. Jeremy Hunter is a viral TED Talk speaker and expert on the “inner development of leaders.” He has spent his career coaching some of the most prominent business leaders globally. He’s also a Professor of Practice at the Peter F. Drucker School of Management at Claremont Graduate University. The conversation took on even deeper meaning shortly after we recorded, when Dr. Hunter and his family lost their home in the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires. Reflecting on this life-altering event, he shared, “Life is asking me to embody what is vital and vitalizing in a whole new way.In this episode, you will learn:-How to cultivate and sustain vitality as a leader-The systems and practices all great leaders share-How to leverage curiosity as a critical asset-Dr. Hunter’s top advice for aspiring leaders and young professionals-Strategies to enhance your longevity in business and life-Techniques to release anxiety and other negative emotions-How to transform pain into a catalyst for growth-A fresh perspective on becoming a true craftsman or craftswomanEpisodes you may also enjoy2. Unpacking the Roots of Anxiety w/Dr. Fred Rabinowitz (Psychotherapist)Beat produced by @jaecea_ on IGBe sure to follow www.codeofthecraftsmen.com for more!

What does it mean to be a craftsman or craftswoman? This special highlight reel packs a year’s worth of wisdom, inspiration, and actionable advice into one powerful episode. Tune in and take your craft to the next level!Guests fetured in this episode:Nathan Zegura – Cleveland Browns announcer & radio hostBrittany Bosner – Music Booking Producer for TODAY on NBC NewsKevin Bolden Jr. – Mentor & leaderConnor Cook – Former NFL quarterbackBrad Breier – Head golf coach, Lewis & Clark CollegeKhyrie Armstead & Coach Eric Bridgeland – University of Redlands basketballScott Simon – Author of Scare Your SoulTerry White – Ohio State football legendBeat produced by @jaecea_ on IGBe sure to follow @codeofthecraftsmen for more!

Brittany Bosner is the music booking producer for The Today Show on NBC. She is recognized as one of Billboard’s Top 50 Most Influential Women in Music and a recipient of the Country Music Association’s (CMA) Media Achievement Award.In this episode, the following topics are discussed:​Valuable advice for those pursuing their dreams and for those starting their careers, hopeful for a big break​Brittany’s reflection on her childhood dream of working on The Today Show and how she turned that dream into reality​Retelling of Brittany's incredible story of Adele's in studio visit ​Brittany’s role and experiences in booking artists for the show​A behind-the-scenes look at the competitive nature of the music industry and the process of securing talent on The Today Show​The importance of relationships, trust, and communication in her work​The significance of recognizing what you don’t know and surrounding yourself with talented individuals​Brittany's passion for discovering and supporting up-and-coming artists, which shines through in every aspect of her work Episodes you may also enjoy: 10. "Live Your Dream": Nate Zegura, Cleveland Browns Announcer on Unconventional NFL Path, Preparation, Joe Thomas as a Mentor, Relationships with Nick Chubb, Dvid Njoku, Deshaun WatsonBeat produced by @jaecea_ on IGBe sure to follow @codeofthecraftsmen for more!

Terry White is a former Ohio State Buckeyes football great defender. Once a projected top 5 NFL draft pick, Terry’s journey took a dramatic turn through prison and recovery from addiction. Now a mentor to many, Terry’s resilience offers powerful lessons on overcoming past mistakes and living with intention. An incredible story on how to go from trial to triumph. In this episode, you will hear about: - Terry’s double life as a great athlete and his involvement in a rough environment - The story of Terry getting dismissed from the Ohio State Buckeyes for disciplinary reasons by then Head Coach Earl Bruce - How Terry turned his life around after his journey through prison and addiction recovery - Terry’s advice on coaching, leading, and mentoring those going through challenging times- Insights on living with intention, purpose, and finding/understanding your identity - What being a "craftsman" means to Terry Be sure to like, follow, & leave a review :) Follow us on all socials @codeofthecraftsmen by using the provided link below for easy access! https://linktr.ee/codeofthecraftsmen Episodes You Might Also Enjoy: 12. "Live Your Dream": Nate Zegura, Cleveland Browns Announcer on Unconventional NFL Path, Preparation, Joe Thomas as Mentor, Relationships w Nick Chubb, David Njoku, Deshaun Watson, Flacco, & more https://open.spotify.com/episode/3hrFG3SZYnz53HyZzzH7nZ?si=UMLJ33rLSz-0GCIIMjEyIw 4. Connor Cook: Shocking NFL Playoff Record, College Stardom, and Life Transitions https://open.spotify.com/episode/4s10ss1t2fTFw8kSRDzX98?si=sLzdW6D2R8CPi2pT682OQw More to come soon - STAY TUNED! beat produced by @jaecea_ on ig

Nathan Zegura, NFL announcer for the Cleveland Browns and host of Cleveland Browns Daily on ESPN 850 Cleveland, shares his unique journey to the NFL broadcasting booth. Nate opens up on how he became the only NFL announcer from a fantasy football background and the sole announcer who did not play professionally or work in an NFL front office. He also reflects on his bold decision to leave his business consulting job at McKinsey & Company to pursue fantasy football full-time. Tune in to the full episode and hear Nate share: - Inspirational lessons from his personal story and unique path to the NFL booth - His unexpected NFL broadcasting debut, despite never announcing at any other level (1st time in NFL history) - Behind the scenes look at how he prepares for Sundays - An insider Joe Flacco in Cleveland story - Nick Chubb, David Njoku, and Amari Cooper talk - An unexpected live reaction to major NFL news! - What being a "craftsman" means to him & more Be sure to follow us on all social media platforms through the provided link: https://linktr.ee/codeofthecraftsmen Nathan Zegura: @NathanZegura on X/Twitter Beat produced by @jaecea_ on ig

“My 20-year-old self wouldn't want the life I have now.” Explore how to navigate your 20s with confidence and clarity. Join Jay Briggs Jr., Ben Cowan, and Kevin Bolden Jr. (age 31) who all underwent significant transformations throughout their 20s. This podcast offers game changing insights, stories, and advice to help you carve your unique path during this pivotal decade. Tune in for an impactful conversation. Covered in this episode: -Utilizing your 20s to experiment before it’s too late -Changing your goals throughout your 20s, and redefining your identity -The journey to finding your craft in your 20s -Discovering a world outside your hometown -How to know if you’re on the right path -Defining your own vision of success vs outside expectations Be sure to follow us @codeofthecraftsmen on all social media platforms. Episodes you may also enjoy: #3. Conquer Anxiety NOW! Insider Secrets w Dr. Fred Rabinowitz #6. Wingman of Redlands: Viral Business Success, High School Exit, and Community Impact through Wings Beat produced by @jaecea_ on ig

Rita Soronen is the President & CEO of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption. The mission of the Foundation is to dramatically increase the number of adoptions from North America’s foster care systems. The Foundation is celebrating more than 14,000 permanent families for children who were lingering in foster care. In this episode, you will learn about: - The story of Rita taking over the foundation from Dave Thomas, plus, his final advice for her and the foundation. - Essential guidance for anyone aspiring to be a CEO or leader of any kind. - Rita's top lessons on best practices for organizations. - Reflections on being a prominent female leader. - And finally, a powerful story of 2 children who were saved from foster care with the help of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption Be sure to follow us on all social media platforms! @codeofthecraftsmen Podcast Homepage: https://linktr.ee/codeofthecraftsmen To learn more about the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption and ways to support: https://www.davethomasfoundation.org/ Beat produced by @jaecea_ on IG

Join us as 11x PGA Tour Winner Dave Stockton shares his incredible journey, including winning the 1970 and 1976 PGA Championships, coaching golf legends like Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, and serving as Ryder Cup player and captain for Team USA. Get ready for valuable insights on achieving competitive excellence from the best in the world. Episodes You Might Also Enjoy: #4. NFL/Michigan St. QB Connor Cook: Shocking NFL Playoff Record, College Stardom, and Life Transitions https://open.spotify.com/episode/4s10ss1t2fTFw8kSRDzX98?si=8f67c609f03345d2 #1. Escape your Fears with Author of 'Scare Your Soul' Scott Simon https://open.spotify.com/episode/42qNF1NJwWRzbUuzjtEoxl?si=5843426147b64203 Beat by @Jaecea_ on ig

“It’s your choice. You have to make the decision to break the cycles of the past.” Join Jay Briggs and college senior André Peeples in reflecting on obstacles often encountered by young adults. In this episode, they engage in a candid conversation about navigating the complexities of mental well-being, breaking free from generational trauma, and embarking on the profound journey of self-discovery. Tune in as they share personal insights, practical tips, and empowering perspectives to inspire listeners on their own paths toward growth and fulfillment. Be sure to FOLLOW US on all social media platforms! https://linktr.ee/codeofthecraftsmen This episode's guest brought in part by Code of the Craftsmen "Connecting with our Great Supporters" - @dreprosperity on IG Beat produced by: @jaecea_ on IG

Join Jay and Ben as they chat with The WingMan of Redlands, the visionary behind one of Southern California's top wing restaurants. In this exclusive interview, The WingMan unveils the key ingredients to his entrepreneurial success, defying the odds of not completing high school and lacking the means for a college education. Discover the secret "sauce" that fueled his remarkable journey to building a thriving business. Be sure to follow us on all social media platforms! https://linktr.ee/codeofthecraftsmen Also, be sure to follow @wingmanredlands on IG and try his incredible wings if you find yourself in SoCal!! Beat produced by @jaecea_ on IG

Gain intimate insights into the start of Code of the Craftsmen through the eyes of its creators, Jay Briggs Jr. & Ben Cowan. Join us in reflecting on the insights we've gained from starting our podcast, graduating college, and stepping into the workforce. Be sure to follow us on all social media platforms! https://linktr.ee/codeofthecraftsmen

Connor Cook is Michigan State’s winningest QB in school history: 35-4 record, winner of Rose Bowl (’14), Big-10 Championship (’13, ’15), Oakland Raiders draft pick, and 2016 NFL playoff starter. Connor has now successfully navigated his transition out of pro football and into the world of business. In this episode, you will learn about Connor Cook’s: - Journey from redshirt freshman to becoming the winningest QB in Michigan State history - Connor Cook’s surprise NFL playoff start - Connor Cook's mindset following a disappointing playoff loss - Strategies and mindset that propelled Connor from a successful football career to transition to the business world Be sure to FOLLOW US on all social media platforms! https://linktr.ee/codeofthecraftsmen Beat produced by: @jaecea_ on IG

"You have to become a champion before you're labeled one." Explore the unlikely one-year turnaround of the University of Redlands’ Men’s Basketball Program. From on-court success to a revamped culture and leadership, hear from Coach Eric Bridgeland and Captain Khyree Armstead discuss the journey that turned individual talent into a selfless team prepared to contend for a National Championship. What will you gain from this episode?- Tips to transform any team’s culture- Leadership gems- How to “rebound” from a devastating playoff loss- Balancing individual and team goalsBe sure to follow us on all social media platforms! https://linktr.ee/codeofthecraftsmenBeat produced by: @jaecea_ on IG

Dr. Fred Rabinowitz: a 40-year tenured psychotherapist, psychology professor, department chair, advisor, and mentor, offers profound insights into the pressing concerns of college students, young professionals, and any individual on a quest for purpose. @codeofthecraftsmen In this episode, you will learn about: Relieving anxiety about the future Finding meaning in any career path The 4 “existential worries” from which ALL anxiety stems Tuning in to your authentic self and quieting external voices Embracing change as an opportunity for personal development Simple practices to increase self-awareness Staying present Be sure to follow us on all social media platforms! @codeofthecraftsmen Podcast Homepage: https://linktr.ee/codeofthecraftsmen Episodes You May Also Enjoy: #1. Escape your Fears with Author of 'Scare Your Soul' Scott Simon https://open.spotify.com/episode/42qNF1NJwWRzbUuzjtEoxl?si=5843426147b64203 #5. Starting Podcast, Entering Workforce, Insights We Wish We Had!https://open.spotify.com/episode/5QYIZYCJWnPOuzirjUFeFs?si=c8bd7f6c3dc84c11 Beat produced by: @jaecea_ on IG

Scott Simon is the author of “Scare Your Soul” and creator of Scare Your Soul Global Courage Movement. In this interview, Scott opens up about his transformation from being afraid of his own shadow as a child, as a result of bullying in school, into a now fearless, influential leader. Scott has since been asked to be a guest motivational speaker at the United Nations (UN). What will you gain from this episode? - Personal story of triumph: Bully victim to fearless leader, author, and motivational speaker - Simple, yet powerful, techniques to unleash courage - Cracking psychology behind fear - Motivation to attack your next challenge To purchase Scott Simon’s book “Scare Your Soul: 7 Powerful Principles to Harness Fear and Lead Your Most Courageous Life”: https://a.co/d/126OKeJ Also, sign up for FREE to get your weekly newsletter from the Scare Your Soul Courage Movement: https://scareyoursoul.com/join-the-movement/ Be sure to follow us on all social media platforms! https://linktr.ee/codeofthecraftsmen Beat produced by: @jaecea_ on IG

What to expect on Code of the Craftsmen - with creators Jay Briggs and Ben Cowan.