Confident Risks
Confident Risks with Taylor Rowan is a podcast for entrepreneurs, leaders, and dreamers who want to stop overthinking and start taking bold action. Each week, Taylor explores what it means to take risks with confidence, sharing stories, strategies, and mindset shifts for growing a business and building resilience. The show covers big decisions, fear of failure, and trusting yourself through uncertainty. Listeners learn how to turn challenges into opportunities and move closer to their potential, whether launching a first idea or scaling a business.
Episodes
2nd Due Training | Giving the Next Generation a Reason to Teach
For the first time on Confident Risks, we've got two guests at the table. Steve "Jonesy" Jones, recently promoted to Division Chief of Training at the City of Coeur d'Alene Fire Department after nearly 25 years, and Justin Capaul, KCFR Battalion Chief and 4th generation firefighter. Together they co own 2nd Due Training, and in this episode they share why it exists and who it'
M.A. LMFT Nicole Nestor-Gray | Caring for Those Who Care for Us
Meet Nicole Nester Gray, a licensed marriage and family therapist with 35 years in the mental health field and 20 years dedicated to working with first responders. From her office in Hayden, Idaho, she founded and leads the First Responder Clinician Support Team, and in this episode she shares the mission behind caring for the people who spend their lives caring for everyone else.Nicole explains h
Retired CAL FIRE Captain Scott Herbert | Giving Firefighters Eyes in the Smoke
Meet Scott Herbert, a retired CAL FIRE Captain with a 22 year career and a lifelong passion for training the next generation of firefighters. Today he works with Seek Thermal, helping departments across the country put life saving technology into the hands of firefighters. In this episode, Scott shares his journey, his philosophy on developing people, and why thermal imaging is changing the fire s
Retired Chief David Rhodes | The Search Decision That Saves More Lives
Meet David Rhodes, Chief (Ret.), Education Director for FDIC and Editor in Chief of Fire Engineering. With a 30 year career in Atlanta and a national reputation as a teacher and creator of the Georgia Smoke Diver program, David is one of the most respected voices in the fire service.David opens with a harrowing story from his early days, laying on the ground at a fire he had no business being at,
Battalion Chief Chris Sleigher | Leadership is an Infinite Game
Meet Chris Sleigher, a retired Battalion Chief with a 25 year career and an inductee into the Arizona Firefighter Hall of Fame. Today he travels the country teaching and mentoring firefighters, and in this episode he breaks down what real leadership actually looks like.Chris opens with a line that reframes everything: "It's not my job to bring you home at the end of your shift. That's
Spokane Fire Captain Scott Coldiron | 2 Minutes to Save a Life
Meet Scott Coldiron, Captain of Truck 14 at Spokane Fire on the South Hill. Scott is known for training at an elite level, and in this episode he breaks down the mindset, the discipline, and the real life stakes behind why he trains the way he does.Scott shares one of the most incredible saves of his career. From air break to calling "we've got him in the front yard" was just 2 minut
First Responder Coach Darren Richardson | The Part of the Job Nobody Talks About
Darren Richardson spent 14 years as a firefighter/paramedic and 18 years total as a first responder before a mental health crisis changed the course of his life. Today, he's a first responder coach, motivational speaker, and two time amputee who helps first responders, veterans, and others navigate trauma and rebuild their sense of purpose.In this powerful episode, Darren opens up about the pa
Hot Wash: ESFD Deputy Fire Chief Charlotte Pegoraro
After every guest, Taylor follows up with a recap to process and break down the biggest takeaways. This is the Hot Wash on Charlotte Pegoraro's visit.Charlotte came highly recommended, and once Taylor started mentioning her name around the North Idaho and Eastern Washington fire community, everyone knew her. She's at every event, always thinking outside the box, and truly dynamic at what s
ESFD Deputy Fire Chief Charlotte Pegoraro | Rising From Web Designer to Deputy Chief
Meet Charlotte Pegoraro, Deputy Fire Chief at Eastside Fire. Her path to the fire service is unlike any we've featured. At 35, with a business degree and an established career in web and graphic design, Charlotte decided to take a leap and become a volunteer firefighter, all while raising two kids with her husband. Fifteen years later, she leads the same department she started with.Charlotte e
Hot Wash: NLFD Battalion Chief Matt Legg
After every guest, Taylor follows up with a recap to process and break down the biggest takeaways. This is the Hot Wash on Matt Legg's visit.Taylor has had the chance to travel to FDIC with Matt and get to know him well, which made this conversation even richer. Here are the highlights that stuck with him most.First, don't let the moment take over. One of the most powerful parts of Matt
NLFD Battalion Chief Matt Legg | Idaho's Busiest Fire Season
Meet Matt Legg, Battalion Chief at Northern Lakes Fire. After 18 years in the service and a promotion to battalion chief just 8 months ago, Matt brings a front-line perspective on one of the most intense fire seasons North Idaho has faced.Northern Lakes covers 106 square miles, including Hayden, Rathdrum, Twin Lakes, and Garwood. With three staffed stations, a fourth on the way, and 9 new hires re
Hot Wash: KCFR Battalion Chief Justin Capaul
After every guest, Taylor follows up with a recap to process and break down the biggest takeaways. This is the Hot Wash on Justin Capaul's visit.Taylor has known Justin for 3 to 4 years, and every time they talk, he learns something new. Here are the highlights that stuck with him most.First, the power of reviewing the tape. Just like in the Rusty episode, Taylor comes back to the value of goi
KCFR Battalion Chief Justin Capaul - From Fire Calls to Sales Calls
Meet Justin Capal, a 4th generation firefighter and Battalion Chief at Kootenai County Fire and Rescue. With 25 years in the fire service and a software company he runs on the side, Justin lives the dual life that defines Confident Risks.Justin comes from a family of firefighters going back four generations. His great-grandpa was the first paid fireman in the area, and his grandpa, dad, uncle, and
Hot Wash: KCFR Battalion Chief Rusty Kramer
Every time we have a guest on, Taylor follows up with a recap episode to process and break down the biggest takeaways. This is the Hot Wash on Rusty Kramer's visit.After 12 years in the service and a fast track to battalion chief at KCFR, Rusty left us with a lot to unpack. Here are the highlights that stuck with Taylor most.First, Rusty's ability to stay cool, calm, and collected under pr
KCFR Battalion Chief Rusty Kramer - The Mindset That Saves Lives
KCFR Battalion Chief Rusty Kramer shares what separates good firefighters from great ones. In this episode, Rusty breaks down the mindset that saves lives.With 12 years at Kootenai County Fire and Rescue and a background in the Marine Corps, Rusty brings deep insights on training, discipline, and leadership under pressure.You'll learn why muscle memory matters in emergency situations, how comp
Season 3: The Real Lessons Hidden in the Fire Service
The Real Lessons Hidden in the Fire Service.We're back with Season 3, and this season is different.Season 1 was about entrepreneurship and building confidence to start a business. Season 2 was about positivity and happiness.Season 3? We're diving into the fire service.Real stories. Real training. Real calls. Real pressure.If you're not a firefighter, you might think this doesn't ap
Throwback Tuesday | What Does Real Confidence Look Like?: It's Not What You Think
When you think of confidence, what comes to mind? The loudest person in the room?Here's the truth: That person is probably the least confident person there.Real confidence isn't about talking. It's about knowing your product. Doing the research. Making an educated decision. Knowing absolutely that you made the right choice.This is Episode 1 of Confident Risks, where we answer the quest
Throwback Tuesday | Self-Confidence is Your Brand: Here's How to Build It
Self-Confidence Is Your Brand—Here's How to Build It.In this episode, we're talking about self-confidence. Not confidence in your product. Confidence in yourself.Because here's the truth: You are the brand. And self-confidence is how you sell it.**The Difference:**Product confidence means you know the product. You never have to say a word.Self-confidence means you can talk to other peo
Throwback Tuesday | Sacrifices vs. Trade-Off: Why You Don't Need to Give Up Everything to Start
Sacrifices vs. Trade-Offs: Why You Don't Need to Give Up Everything to StartIn this episode, we're talking about something that stops most people from starting: sacrifices.The word "sacrifice" is aggressive. It makes us think we have to give up everything.But here's the truth: It's not about sacrifice. It's about trade-offs.**The Real Insight:**Trade-offs is a better
Throwback Tuesday | Discipline is Your Best Safety Net: Everything Else is Secondary
Discipline Is Your Best Safety Net—Everything Else Is SecondaryIn this episode, we're talking about what separates successful people from everyone else: discipline.Most people talk about having a backup plan. A safety net.But here's the truth: Your best safety net isn't a backup plan. It's discipline.Discipline is doing something when you don't have to do it, but you do it anyway.**The Real Story:
Throwback Tuesday | Execution Over Ideas: Turning Concepts into Startup Success
Execution Over Ideas: Why Your Plan Doesn't Matter Without ActionIn this episode, we're talking about the gap between having an idea and actually doing it.We all have great ideas. We've done the research. We've got the confidence. But then nothing happens.Here's what separates successful people from everyone else: they execute.**What This Episode Covers:**Why setting a date for
Throwback Tuesday | Start Small: The First Steps to Starting a Business
There are no work instructions for starting a business. But there are 3 principles that will guide you through those first months and beyond.In this episode, we cover: Start small and keep overhead low. Don't try to be like somebody else. Focus on your customer.We explore the Lego analogy, real stories about starting from a driveway, and why word-of-mouth became my best marketing tool.This is
Throwback Tuesday | How to Know When to Say Yes or No
A classic episode from Confident Risks on how to assess and manage risk.Whether you're thinking about starting a business, making a major decision, or navigating challenges you're already facing, understanding risk is critical.Today we're breaking down one of the most important concepts for entrepreneurs and business owners: low-level risks, mid-level risks, and high-level risks.What We Cover:What
2026 So Far: Everything YOU Need to Know About YTD
We're three months into 2026, and a lot has happened. This episode is a complete highlight reel of everything since January 1st.Whether you've been here the whole time or you're new, this episode is for you.We realized we've never really sat down and shown you the complete YTD picture in one place. You might know one part of our journey. But you don't necessarily know everythin
Takeaways From Fireball Tool's Visit
Jason Marburger's visit to Confident Risks was incredible. This recap episode breaks down the key lessons from his Fireball Tools startup story. Learn why his dad's refusal to fund him changed everything, how social media became the new sales force, why negative comments are valuable, and the biggest secret to success. The core message: You don't need it all figured out. You need passi
Jason Marburger - Fireball Tool
If you're an entrepreneur, fabricator, tradesperson, or small business owner, this episode is for you. Jason Marburger shares lessons in: building a brand on authenticity, competing with cheaper alternatives, the cost of quality manufacturing, hiring and training your team, validating product ideas before investing, protecting intellectual property, and maintaining your values while scaling. D
Outcome vs. Identity: Why Your First Attempt Doesn't Define You
Your first attempt doesn't define you. Your response to failure does. In this episode of Confident Risks, we explore the critical distinction high performers make: separating outcome from identity. Too many of us try something new, fail once, and think "I'm not good at this." But successful people know a different truth. The first 10 times you do something will be embarrassing, the next 100 times
Many Want the Title. Few Want the Burden
In this episode of Confident Risks, we dive into the critical difference between confidence and competence and why confusing the two can limit your growth, credibility, and long-term success.It is easy to look at business owners, athletes, leaders, or creators and assume success is simple. You see the highlight moments. You see the surface level results. What you do not see is the work underneath.
Takeaways From Kevin Shea's Visit
After our powerful conversation with retired FDNY firefighter Kevin Shea, I knew we needed to reflect on what that episode truly meant.In this follow-up, I break down the biggest lessons I took away from Kevin’s story, from his rope rescue on a 12-story building to surviving a four-and-a-half-story fall during the World Trade Center bombing. Beyond the dramatic moments, what stood out most was his
Stop the Roller Coaster of Good and Bad Days
Why do some days feel like a 10 out of 10… and others feel like a complete failure?In this episode of Confident Risks, we break down the concept of raising your floor instead of constantly chasing your ceiling. Most people focus on their best days, trying to maximize peak performance. But real personal growth, confidence, and long-term success come from improving your worst days.We explore:Why con
Kevin Shea - Retired FDNY
In this powerful first episode of Confident Risks, we sit down with Kevin Shea, retired firefighter from the Fire Department of the City of New York, for a real and unfiltered conversation about courage, leadership, and making high-stakes decisions under pressure.Kevin shares firsthand experiences from his years serving in the FDNY, the mindset required to run toward danger, and the mental resilie
Stop Playing Scared: How Fear is Holding You Back From Success
Most people are not stuck because they lack talent. They are stuck because they are playing scared.In this episode, we dive into the fear that shows up before big decisions and why waiting to feel “ready” is often the very thing holding you back. From tough conversations to career moves and major life changes, growth requires courage long before confidence arrives.You will walk away with a powerfu
Don't Burn Bridges: How Knee-Jerk Reactions Sabotage Your Future
Failure is unavoidable, but burning bridges does not have to be.In this episode, we dive deep into how knee-jerk reactions, emotional responses, and impulsive decisions can permanently damage relationships and future opportunities. Drawing from experiences in sports, business, leadership, and everyday life, we explore why successful people pause before reacting and how the 24-hour rule can complet
Don't Just Do What You're Asked: How Being Proactive Transforms Your Life
Being proactive is one of the most underrated, and most powerful skills for success.In this episode, we talk about why simply doing what you’re asked isn’t enough if you want to grow in your career, improve your family life, strengthen friendships, or build something meaningful. Success comes from thinking ahead, understanding the bigger picture, and becoming an asset instead of a liability.Throug
Why Humility is a Competitive Advantage in Life and Business
Humility is often overlooked, but it may be the most powerful driver of real success.In this episode, we explore how humility plays a critical role in leadership, business growth, family life, and personal development. From learning when to step back, to trusting people who are better than you, to having the confidence to say “I don’t know,” this conversation breaks down why humility strengthens t
Put Yourself Aside: The True Meaning of Being a Team Player
Being a team player is what brings success collectively to the people around you.In this episode, we explore what it truly means to put yourself aside for the good of the team, whether that’s in your family, your business, or your friendships. Using real stories from sports, parenting, and leadership, this conversation breaks down why talent alone doesn’t build championship teams. Cohesion, accoun
The Framework For Success: 3 Pillars You Can't Ignore
What does success really mean, and how do you build it? In this episode, we explore the three universal pillars of success: discipline, gratitude, and competitiveness, and why missing even one can hold you back.Through practical analogies and personal experience, this conversation breaks down how these pillars work together to create balance, growth, and long-term fulfillment. As a new year begins
The Funnel of Life: Why Discipline Now Creates Freedom Later
What you do now determines how much freedom you’ll have later.In this episode, we introduce The Funnel of Life. A simple but powerful way to think about discipline, priorities, and long-term success. Living at the wide end of the funnel may feel fun today, but it often leads to restriction, stress, and regret later. The people who win long term? They live at the narrow end first.As we approach a n
No Regrets. Only Results
We all have moments we wish we could redo, but what if regret isn’t the problem?In this episode of Confident Risks, Taylor dives deep into the idea of living with no regrets and why every decision, especially the uncomfortable ones, plays a role in shaping who we become. Through personal stories from professional athletics, career pivots, and everyday life, this episode explores how learning from
Gratitude Changes Everything: Why Thankful People Build Better Lives
Gratitude isn’t weakness, it’s one of the strongest traits a person can develop. In this episode of Confident Risk, Taylor explores how appreciation, not achievement or possessions, is the foundation of real happiness and meaningful relationships.From family dynamics and friendships to leadership and everyday interactions, this episode dives into why we don’t say “thank you” enough, and how that s
Discipline vs. Excuses: The Mindset That Changes Everything
In this episode of Confident Risk, Taylor explains why discipline is the real safety net behind every success story. Through personal examples, business experiences, and everyday moments, he shows how consistent action creates momentum, confidence, and long-term growth.You’ll learn how disciplined people think, how they act when no one is watching, and how to build this same foundation in your own
You're Stronger Than the Resistance You Feel
Feeling resistance? That’s the moment most people stop, but it’s also the moment that defines your growth. In this episode, Taylor Rowan breaks down why you don’t need permission to pursue what matters, how fear can signal the right direction, and why pushing past discomfort leads to the breakthroughs most people never experience.Learn how to think independently, trust your process, and move throu
Success Starts With Listening
In this episode of Confident Risks, Taylor Rowan digs into the mindset shift that separates growth from stagnation: being willing to learn. Through stories from the workplace, parenting, sports, and everyday moments, Taylor illustrates how listening, staying open, and valuing others’ perspectives unlocks confidence, better decisions, and long-term success.Whether you’re a leader, parent, athlete,
Rewire Your Thinking: Seeing the Good in Every Situation
Negativity is automatic — positivity is a choice. In this episode of Confident Risks, Taylor Rowan explores why we default to negative thinking and how shifting your mindset can transform your confidence, relationships, and daily life. Through real stories from sports, parenting, business, and everyday moments, Taylor shows how small positive reframes create huge outcomes.Learn how to break defens
When AI Pulls the Plug on the Market
Artificial intelligence is reshaping the world faster than we can process it. In this episode, Taylor Rowan explores how AI could transform business, eliminate jobs, and even trigger a market collapse. But beyond the doomsday talk, he also shares how humanity can adapt, reconnect, and find purpose in the next era of innovation.
How Being Wrong Can Make You More Credible and Successful
In this episode of Confident Risks, Taylor Rowan explores the power of admitting when you’re wrong, and how that single act can lead to massive growth in business, relationships, and life. Discover how listening to understand, not just to respond, can change the way you communicate and build trust.
How to Build an Inner Voice That Drives Success
In this episode of Confident Risks, Taylor Rowan dives into the foundation of every success story, a strong inner voice. Discover how to build self-motivation, distance yourself from negativity, and create an environment that helps you grow personally and professionally.
How Getting Uncomfortable Leads to Real Success
In this episode of Confident Risks, Taylor Rowan dives into what it really takes to reach success, and it’s not comfort. Hear real stories of risk, growth, and learning to embrace discomfort as the ultimate springboard to personal and professional success.
How to Escape the Daily Rut and Reignite Your Drive
In this Confident Risks episode, Taylor Rowan dives into what it really takes to escape the daily rut and find your drive again. Discover how to break cycles of routine, take back your focus, and build the confidence to move forward with purpose.
Welcome to Season 2 of Confident Risks
Season 2 of The Confident Risks Podcast is here.Host Taylor Rowan takes confidence beyond business, diving into motivation, mindset, and the personal growth that fuels every bold move.In this Season 2 teaser, Taylor shares what’s coming next: deeper conversations, new perspectives, and the real stories behind building confidence in life and work.🎙️ Tune in, get inspired, and get ready to take more
The Number One Regret of Every Entrepreneur and How to Avoid It
Every entrepreneur has one major regret: waiting too long to start. In this episode of Confident Risks, Taylor Rowan shares how to avoid that trap, build confidence, and move forward with clarity and purpose.
Solo Entrepreneur vs. Partnership: The Real Path to Success
Starting a business is tough, but should you take the leap solo or team up with a partner? In this episode, Taylor Rowan shares the real risks and rewards of both paths, revealing why many partnerships struggle and how to build confidence in your own journey. If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode will help you make the right call.
Your Brand is YOU: Mastering Self-Confidence in Business
Your product might be great, but without self-confidence it won’t sell. In this episode of Confident Risks, Taylor Rowan shares why self-confidence is your brand, how it impacts your business, and practical ways to stop worrying about what others think so you can move forward with clarity and courage.
The Truth About Startups: You Don't Need the Next Big Idea
You don’t need the next big idea to start a business, you need the right opportunity. In this episode of Confident Risks, Taylor Rowan explains how to find backdoor businesses, leverage what already works, and confidently move forward without overthinking.
The Entrepreneur's Path to Growth
Every entrepreneur dreams of growth, but the path isn’t paved with overnight success. It’s built on trade-offs, small steps, and a mindset shift from “sacrifices” to smart choices. In this episode of Confident Risks, Taylor Rowan explores how entrepreneurs can reframe sacrifice, embrace daily trade-offs, and take action without getting stuck in overwhelm.Discover how small, consistent efforts lead
Execution Over Ideas: Turning Concepts into Startup Success
Having ideas is easy, but executing them can be hard. In this episode of Confident Risks, we talk about why execution matters more than ideas and how to break free from overthinking so you can finally take action.
Smart Risk-Taking in Business: How to Know When to Say Yes or No
In this episode of Confident Risks, we dive deep into the art and science of risk-taking. What exactly is a risk, and how do you know when to take one—or walk away? We break down how to assess risk, measure risk versus reward, and make confident decisions using both gut instincts and proven processes.Discover why “becoming boring” by creating strong processes and perfecting your skills can actuall
The Power of Saying No (And Why You're Not Using it)
Most new business owners say “yes” to every customer and every request.It feels like the right move — more work, more money, more growth.But here’s the truth: not every “yes” will help your business.Some will cost you time, profit, and energy.In this episode of Confident Risks, we talk about why learning to say “no” can protect your business, your sanity, and your customers.We also cover how to pl
How to Start a Business That Works (Without Fancy Stuff)
Let’s talk about how to really start a business—the real way.Not the perfect plan. Not the fancy gear. Just the first small steps that no one really talks about.In this episode, I share how I started with what I had. No big budget. No step-by-step guide. Just a clear goal: make something real, help people, and keep costs low.We also talk about why trying to think like someone else can slow you dow
Misunderstandings: the Biggest Confidence Killer
Let’s be real—there’s nothing that messes with your confidence more than feeling misunderstood. You know that moment when you explain yourself, and someone still doesn’t get you? Or when people make assumptions that don’t reflect who you really are? Yeah… that stuff hits hard. In this episode, I’m talking about how those moments of miscommunication and being misread can slowly wear down your confi
What is Confidence
In this very first episode, I dive into what real confidence actually looks like—and no, it’s not about being the loudest person in the room. I share my personal story of working a 9–5 while building my business on the side, the mindset it took to balance both worlds, and the moment I finally decided to bet on myself and take the full-time leap.If you’ve ever felt torn between playing it safe and
Welcome to Confident Risks
Welcome to Confident Risks, the podcast for bold thinkers and brave doers. This isn’t just another show about success. We’re talking about the leaps, the uncertainty, and the confidence it takes to bet on yourself. 🎙️ Whether you're climbing the ladder or building your own, this podcast is here to help you take risks that matter. 👊 Let’s get uncomfortable—in the best way.
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