John Ramstead’s first half experiences were diverse and adventurous, but nothing compared to what he encountered in mid-life. Imagine this: John started out in the United States Navy where he served as a fighter pilot. Then he transitioned to an entrepreneur and then to leading a Fortune 500 management team.

Then life threw him an enormous curve ball – a tragic accident that no one thought he would come back from. After 23 surgeries, he not only survived, but he now lives a very full life and isn’t wasting a day.

John worked closely with his Halftime Coach to get clear on his calling, and now he has a thriving ministry, equipping and empowering influential leaders all over the world. You may be familiar with John’s podcast, Eternal Leadership, which has been named one of the most influential podcasts for business by Inc. Magazine.

We interviewed John live on Thursday, May 30, 2019 for a 30-min conversation about what he lived through and what he has learned about God, himself, and his role on this earth. It is the first of a series of live interviews we’ll be doing with Halftime Alumni.  

John’s infectious joy and unique perspective is sure to challenge you and inspire you.


In addition to our live interview with John, we captured 5 Fast Facts about him to encourage and equip you on your journey.

5 Fast Facts


1. What is book has had the greatest impact on your life?  Besides the Bible and Halftime?  I read 2-3 books per month. One that stands out is Essentialism by Greg McKeown.

2. If you could spend an hour with anyone (dead or alive) who would it be?  Here is a different one: Benaiah (from 2 Samuel 23:20-21). Mark Batterson wrote a book about him titled In a Pit With A Lion On A Snowy Day. I would love to have a conversation with him when I get to heaven.

3.Where is your “happy place”?  On a hike in the mountains or relaxing on a beach with family.

4. What aspect of the halftime journey has been most transformational for you and why?  Definitely the coaching. My Halftime Coach was integral to where I am now.

5. What has been the most beneficial spiritual practice in your life?  Reading the Bible daily using the 365-day Bible app.

If you listened to John’s story and you’re wanting to move forward on your next season, we are here for you.

If you’re wanting to

  • Define your calling
  • Build more margin for your areas of passion
  • Include your spouse in the journey
  • Make more traction on the Kingdom impact you want to see

…we’d love to help. That’s why we exist – to come alongside men and women in mid-life and allow them to get clear, get free, and get going on what God is calling them to. We’ve honed our tools and our coaching model over the past 20 years so that it can help you gain traction and avoid costly mistakes that could deter you.

We’d love to help you find the best Halftime program for you and help you to live a 10 out of 10 abundant life of impact like John.

Contact our admissions team today by filling out the form on this page.

Rhonda Kehlbeck
Rhonda spent her first half in education; her own (a Bachelors and Masters from Baylor and a PhD from Fordham University) and helping others with theirs as speaker, lecturer, teacher, and Professor at Dallas Baptist University. She is also an author of a book for parents that encourages reading and writing with children.

The Pittsburg, Texas native met her husband at church where he drew her name from a pool of 500 women to become her secret Valentine. More than 2 decades later, she and Keith have two daughters who are currently attending Oklahoma University.

As our Vice President of Admissions, many find their Halftime journey begins by interacting with Rhonda. Her nurturing and caring spirit helps people get enrolled into the Halftime Institute.

She is a 2013 Halftime Institute alumna and considers Psalm 86:11 her favorite verse: “Lord, tell me where you want me to go and I will go there. With all my heart, I will praise you.”




"I first read Bob Buford's book several years ago, but my Halftime really began when my youngest left for college. I knew then I didn't just want another job, but wanted to give back to God by making a significant impact for His kingdom.”


Read Rhonda’s Biz Journals article co-written with Bob Buford