Own the Journey

Own the Journey brings together stories of the successes, failures, and resiliencies that make up the journey that business owners navigate daily. By speaking to business leaders who have been through the process and learned from it, we hope to inspire and educate the next generation of small and medium business leaders, no matter what stage of development they’re at. With topics ranging from marketing to leadership to culture to product development to technology, and loads of others, Own the Journey will dive into the nitty gritty details that make up the day-to-day entrepreneurial struggle and how to tackle these areas with the enthusiasm and tenacity of a successful business leader.

Own the Journey is a business podcast hosted by Thomas Douglas, with 56 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Thomas Douglas hosts Own the Journey, a business show with 56 episodes published.

Our AI reads these to draft pitches. Use them as grounding for a pitch that cites a real guest and a specific topic.

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  Episode #56

  From Nightmares to Dreams: The Art of Becoming Who You’re Meant to Be with Phil Towle

  Dec 10, 202554 minS0

  <p>Tom Douglas sits down with world-renowned performance coach Phil Towle for a conversation that bridges psychology, purpose, and the pursuit of greatness. Known for guiding icons like Metallica and NFL coach Dick Vermeil, Phil shares how one life-changing realization shifted his mission from helping people survive their nightmares to helping them pursue their dreams.</p> <p>Together, Tom and Phil dive into the art of self-discovery, the courage it takes to face fear head-on, and the discipline required to turn challenge into growth. They explore how great leaders adapt, how success differs from significance, and why our true calling...

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  Episode #55

  Grit, Grace, and the Game: Lessons in Leadership from Coach Dick Vermeil

  Dec 8, 202546 minS0

  <p>From a small-town mechanic’s son to an NFL Hall of Fame coach, Dick Vermeil’s journey is a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and purpose. In this powerful conversation with JMARK CEO Tom Douglas, Coach Vermeil opens up about the lessons that shaped his career, transforming locker rooms, building culture through hard work, and leading people first, players second.</p> <p>He reminds us that true success isn’t found in the spotlight but in integrity, relationships, and the relentless pursuit of doing what’s right. Whether you lead a team, a business, or a family, this episode will challeng...

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  Episode #54

  From Factory Floors to Faith-Fueled Leadership: The Dave Simpson Story

  Dec 5, 202550 minS0

  <p>In this episode of Own the Journey, Tom Douglas sits down with Dave Simpson, CEO of Holloway America, for an inspiring conversation about leadership, culture, and faith in business. Dave shares his remarkable story from his start in manufacturing to building a thriving company rooted in relationships and integrity. He opens up about lessons learned from decades of experience, the power of servant leadership, navigating personal loss, and the importance of putting people first. This episode is a masterclass in leading with conviction and heart, proof that success isn’t just about what you build, but who you build it...

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  Episode #53

  Servant Leadership, Vision, and Building a Legacy: Kirk Elmquist on Leading with Heart

  Oct 31, 202549 minS0

  <p>From sports to tourism, faith to leadership, Kirk Elmquist’s story is one of purpose, perseverance, and passion for people. In this episode of Own The Journey, JMARK CEO Thomas Douglas sits down with the Executive Director of Branson Tourism to unpack lessons learned from decades of leadership in sports marketing, hospitality, and community growth.</p> <p> </p> <p>Kirk shares his journey from a walk-on quarterback to a servant leader who has shaped one of the most iconic destinations in the Midwest. You’ll hear his insights on:</p> Servant leadership and why humility is the foundation of great...

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  Episode #52

  Building Business, Family, and Community: The Journey of Jonathan & Audrey Garard

  Oct 13, 20251h 2mS0

  <p>What happens when marriage, military service, and entrepreneurship collide? In this episode of Own the Journey, Tom sits down with Jonathan and Audrey Garard, co-owners of Grooms Office Environments in Springfield.</p> <p>From Jonathan’s 15 years of military service to Audrey’s leap from advertising into business ownership, the Garards share how resilience, risk-taking, and relentless teamwork have shaped their lives. Together, they open up about:</p> <p>Navigating long deployments and raising young kids while building a business.</p> <p>The decision to buy Grooms and the grit it took to lead as one of the youngest Herm...

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