The Power of Music: My Ultimate Playlist

Music, as you know, is medicine for my soul. I’m not sure where I would be without it. In honor of USANA’s 30th anniversary, which we’re celebrating in 2022, I provided a Top 30 list of many of my favorite songs.

Rich Shosted, part of USANA’s internal communications team, wrote the following article. It was originally published on USANAverse, USANA’s employee news source, and I’m delighted to share it here.

Music is Medicine For My Soul Email

Kevin Guest’s Ultimate Playlist

by Rich Shosted

Kevin Guest is up to his ears in music.

Though in all fairness, he always has been. The future USANA CEO grew up the youngest of five in Kalispell, an idyllic small town nestled in northwest Montana. His dad played in the local symphony, his mom was a pianist—and both nurtured a passion for melody in all their kids. “Music was always ringing throughout our house,” he says.

Over the years, Kevin picked up experience with multiple instruments—piano, drums, guitar—but ultimately, he gravitated toward his true love, the bass guitar. “The bass is the entire heartbeat of the musical experience,” he says.

And his fondness for harmony and plucking the low-pitched string instrument has led to a wealth of opportunity.

Kevin leveraged his passion to support his higher education and budding family. Throughout college—six nights a week—he made a living playing for a country band in venues across Wyoming, Idaho, and up and down the Salt Lake Valley. “I’ve played every bar on State Street [Salt Lake City],” he says.

In the early ’90s, Kevin landed a producer gig on Turn Up the Volume, a show that followed rock stars around documentary style. The madcap production gave Kevin the chance to tour with Poison, Bon Jovi, The Scorpions, and a slew of other notable rock bands.

He’s an unabashed fan of rock and roll, especially a certain history-making quartet. “My love for the Beatles goes as far back as I can remember,” Kevin says. And the superfan has been lucky enough to have met both Ringo Starr and Sir Paul McCartney. He’s seen the latter in concert on three separate occasions, too.

Subscribe to The Free Radicals channel on YouTube.

Music as Medicine for the Soul

These days our tireless leader plays the bass and provides vocals for The Free Radicals, a 12-strong musical ensemble that includes a few members connected to USANA—including Chief Sales Officer David Mulham, USANA Studios Project Manager Michael Rytting, and retired VP of Studios Shawn McLelland. The world-class band recently started a popular YouTube channel—their cover of Toto’s Rosanna has more than 500,000 views.

Kevin’s life—so far—is packed with an untold number of musical experiences he wouldn’t trade for the world. He’s had the pleasure of sharing the stage with the likes of Collin Raye, Kenny Loggins, Eddie Money, REO Speedwagon, and Belinda Carlisle. His talent and hard work even led to two performances at the Grand Ole Opry. “I’ve been so fortunate to either meet, work with, or play with almost every one of my music heroes,” he says.

But it’s much more than a hobby or a chance to meet his favorite artists. For Kevin, nothing is more important than relationships—and music plays a massive role. “Music is a universal language and a way to connect,” he says.

Music provides comfort, creates bonds, and builds comradery—and Kevin is sharing a piece (or 30 pieces rather) of his devotion with us.

In honor of USANA’s 30th anniversary, our CEO/resident rock and roller provided a list of his 30 favorite songs (below, in no particular order). “If you were to sit in my car with me, this is the music you’d hear,” he says.

Odds are one or two of these tracks will strike a chord with you. If they do, let us know which ones in the comments.

30 Songs to Honor 30 Years

“Let it Be”—The Beatles

“Let it Be” is really about being present—that there will be an answer and things will work themselves out. One of the things I struggle with is being present. I’m always worried about what might happen or what did happen versus just being in the moment—and this song helps me.

“The Dance”—Garth Brooks
“Don’t Stop Believin'”—Journey
“Love Remains”—Collin Raye
“Make This Day”—Zac Brown Band
“Take it Easy”—Eagles

When I think of the Eagles, I think of “team”—the group of people being stronger than the individuals. There are very talented individuals on the Eagles, but as a group they’ve achieved greater success. Applying that to our lives—working together versus trying to do it by ourselves—makes life much more beautiful and meaningful.

“Listen to the Music”—The Doobie Brothers
“Keep Pushin'”—REO Speedwagon
“Brand New Man”—Brooks & Dunn
“No End to This Road”—Restless Heart
“Your Song”—Elton John

Music is medicine for the soul, and this song is the perfect example.

“Ain’t No Time to be Afraid”—Little Texas
“Feelin’ Stronger Everyday”—Chicago
“Takin’ Care of Business”—Bachman-Turner Overdrive (BTO)
“Here Comes the Sun”—The Beatles
“Every Drop of Water”—Ricky Skaggs

The message in the song really resonates with me. It reminds me that everybody has value and worth and—like every drop of water shapes a stone—our experiences shape who we are, the good and the bad. And we need to take all those experiences as a blessing.

“Live This Life”—Big & Rich
“Ships of Heaven”—BlackHawk
“Teach Your Children”—Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
“Momma Don’t Forget to Pray for Me”—Diamond Rio
“Wind of Change”—The Scorpions

I sat in a room with Klaus Meine, the lead singer of the Scorpions, as he talked about this song. He said that at the time, he was inspired by the fall of communism in eastern Germany and the Soviet Union. For me, it’s about how we need peace in the world.

“Shower the People”—James Taylor
“Long Hard Road”—Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
“Show Me the Way”—Peter Frampton
“Something to Believe In”—Poison

One of the problems with the world today is that people don’t stand for anything and don’t believe in anything. They’re just kind of letting the tides of the world swallow them up. You need something to believe in. I’m not telling you what to believe—just believe in something.

“Dream Big”—Ryan Shupe & the RubberBand
“Live Like You Were Dying”—Tim McGraw
“Shooting Star”—Bad Company
“Hole In the World”—Eagles
“You’ve Got a Friend”—James Taylor

This one was written by Carole King, who in my opinion is probably one of the greatest American songwriters…ever. Just look at the diversity of hits she has and all the different artists who have recorded her music. I love the James Taylor version of this one and the message.

Top 30 from Kevin Guest

The Turn Up the Volume Principle: Prepare, and Then Go, Baby, Go!

In life, we may be presented with opportunities that intimidate or scare us. Often, the fear stems from the unknown or an unfamiliarity. The Turn Up the Volume Principle, which is Principle No. 3 in my book All the Right Reasons, addresses this.

Prepare, and then Go, Baby, Go!

I’m reminded of a golf tournament I helped organize as a college student. Though I hadn’t any experience organizing such an event, I knew it would be a good experience, so I accepted the challenge.

I’m so glad I took the leap! It provided me with invaluable experience. And the opportunity to connect with many individuals who would help me in business for years to come (notably, Dr. Myron Wentz, the founder of USANA Health Sciences).

Turn Up the Volume!

Another illustration of the principle involved a show I produced many years ago called Turn Up the Volume! I worked as a producer and frequently filmed the segments. As I discuss in my book, the concept involved going behind the scenes with famous rock musicians.

Kevin Guest - Turn Up the Volume PrincipleThe series catered to die-hard fans who wanted to know everything about a rock star’s life.

  • What it was like when they were on the road or backstage before a big concert
  • Who or what was their inspiration for writing music
  • How did they put an album together?

Those were the stories I wanted to hear, the ones I knew other fans would also be interested in.

Well, I developed a business plan and pitched the idea. We got the green light to begin production. One night, I got a call that we had an interview set up with Gene Simmons of KISS…in two days. Equal parts of excitement and fear enveloped me. I couldn’t believe I’d be interviewing a legend. Yet, I didn’t have the appropriate camera equipment ($80,000 at the time) to film the interview.

Long story short, I rented a camera, spent a long night learning how to use it, and filmed the interview the next morning. It proved to be a success.

These notions of “fake it ’till you make it” and then “go, baby, go!” are courtesy of my grandfather. The words were written on a plaque in his office. Of course, you need to be careful with the “fake it” part. Preparation is key, and putting in the effort is critical. So when opportunities come, you’re ready to seize them.

My grandfather believed if he were prepared and took action, good things would come to him. I have consistently found this to be true. When in doubt, act.

In Addition…

I invite you to subscribe here to receive monthly emails from me on a range of topics. Please consider contributing to the USANA Foundation. Its mission is to ensure that impoverished children and families reach their fullest potential by providing food and nutrition.

7 Ways to Find Peace & Lower Stress

Recently, the world celebrated International Peace and Love Day. People across the globe commemorate the day each July 7.

Introduced by Ringo Starr, born July 7, 1940, the famed Beatles drummer said he wanted peace and love for his birthday and he encouraged people worldwide to spread peace and love.

Research shows that as we seek peace and show kindness, we reduce stress and become more productive. Committing to a calm personal approach is important not only on International Peace and Love Day but also every other day of the year.

I was fortunate to meet Ringo Starr backstage before a concert and saw firsthand that he was an exceptionally nice person. Ringo laughed and joked as if he had plenty of time to spend with us in the waiting room. He seemed to thoroughly enjoy himself.

When we took a picture, Ringo put his arm around me, chatted for a bit, and showed the peace and love signs he’s famous for. He was gracious and genuine to each person in the room because he chooses to treat people with respect and warmth. He chooses the kind of person he wants to be. Everyone there went away feeling good about themselves and loving Ringo even more.

7 Steps to Find Peace, Lower Stress

1. Genuinely share peace and love to reduce stress

This brings more accomplishment and a sense of ease that is contagious.

2. Choose to treat others with respect and kindness

Listen and validate others’ emotions and experiences. Letting them know their happiness and well-being matter to you is key to cultivating a personality of peace.

3. Slow down and focus on their own breathing

Being mindful of your breathing brings you into the present moment, sharpening clarity and concentration. I like to breathe in for four counts, hold my breath for four counts, exhale for four and hold that for four counts. Doing that six times brings more oxygen and clear thinking.

4. Simplify your task list and devote efforts to top priorities

Don’t spread yourself too thin and be conscious of what matters most.

5. Walk outside and soak up nature

My boyhood home was near Flathead Lake, Montana, so growing up surrounded by water, trees, and mountains is second nature. Living that deeply in nature calms you and reminds you of the bigger perspective when facing life’s challenges.

6. Get massages for relaxation and muscle relief

Mayo Clinic findings cite massages reduce pain and muscle tension, improve blood circulation, lower heart rates and blood pressure, and improve immune function.

7. Make a list of things you are grateful for

These should be things that make you feel happier and calmer. Keep that list on your device and at low points during the day, review it and see your life in a more positive, realistic light. As I do that, I have found things are not as bad as I thought, and life is moving along better than I imagined.

I shared these thoughts and more in a news release that went out on July 7, 2022, International Peace and Love Day.

KUTV ‘Eye on Utah’ Segment Features Kevin Guest

KUTV, Utah’s CBS affiliate, featured Kevin Guest, bassist for The Free Radicals and USANA chairman and CEO. The televised segment discussed Kevin’s role as CEO of a billion-dollar company and his career as a part-time professional musician. The segment aired twice on July 5, 2022.

The online version of the article — Utah man balances being a CEO and part-time rock star — is available now.

KUTV Eye on Utah Screenshot

 

Behind the Scenes

Here are a few behind-the-scenes photos from the interview, which took place in May 2022. 📸 Candid Communications

 

USANA Celebrates 30 Years

Throughout my life, I’ve been fortunate to meet many great people. One of the greatest helped shape the last 30 years. Dr. Myron Wentz, the founder of USANA, created a path that I’m grateful I followed.

In some ways, I can’t believe it’s been 30 years since I hitched my wagon to Dr. Wentz and this great company. Where did the time go? Yet, I smile each time I think about the longevity and the tremendous impact USANA has had on so many lives around the world.

USANA is preparing to celebrate its 30th anniversary at our Global Convention. It reminds me why we’re all here.

We’re here to create the Healthiest Family on Earth.

Our focus remains consistent, as it has for three decades. This notion of the Healthiest Family on Earth continues to be relevant and important. I’m sure 30 years from now, the idea of health — physical, emotional, spiritual — will be even more relevant than it is today.

A Global Celebration

For the first time in three years, the USANA Family plans to gather in Salt Lake City to celebrate. The 30th Anniversary Global Convention is scheduled for Aug. 17-20. It’s an event to celebrate you and all the wonderful people who make USANA what it is.

Create memories to last a lifetime as we recognize you and everything you’ve achieved. Power your entrepreneurial mindset with engaging workshops, energizing speakers, and an electrifying party three decades in the making.

This year’s global convention is positioned as a hybrid event, which means there are in-person and virtual elements.

Health and safety are paramount. I encourage you to carefully consider your own circumstances and select the ticket option that works best for you (here are answers to several common questions). The online component no doubt will be outstanding.

Yet, as the global USANA Family prepares to meet in person for the first time in three years at an event three decades in the making… Well, let’s just say the USANA 30th Anniversary Global Convention is poised to be an event unlike any other.

USANA and Culture

As a side note… Recently, I’ve written about corporate culture and how I believe it’s a differentiator for USANA. It’s one reason we’ve been around 30 years — and I believe it’s why we’re just getting started.

Aligning personal values with your employer’s culture brings a peaceful sense of harmony and strengthens teams. If you missed my thoughts on this notion, I invite you to read the full article.

8 Steps to Restoring Corporate Culture | USANA Chairman & CEO Kevin Guest

Here’s wishing you good health and happiness, and I can’t wait to see my extended USANA Family (either virtually or in person) in August.

8 Steps to Restore Corporate Culture

With the COVID-19 pandemic having eroded corporate culture and upended the rhythm of coworkers’ connections, restoring corporate culture may be difficult.

Inspired by Peter Drucker’s quote, “Culture eats strategy for breakfast,” I’m convinced that restoring culture is key to bringing our companies back from the pandemic. Aligning personal values with your employer’s culture brings a peaceful sense of harmony and strengthens teams.

Corporate Culture: 8 Steps for Success

  1. Celebrate with Co-Workers: Transitioning to hybrid work is the perfect time to celebrate reuniting with the team that achieved success together during the pandemic. Deepening those relationships at company and personal events can reinforce the sense of team and harmony.
  2. Give Back to the Community: Every great company I know has a robust community outreach program. This service provides opportunities to forget about yourself and to help others. When you’re doing this with coworkers, you’ll see an inner source of accomplishment and gratitude for how you can make a difference and lift others.
  3. Focus on Strengths: Pay attention to the things you do well. Then build on that footing to reach higher and grow personally and as a company.
  4. Face Challenges Head On: When challenges arise, stand up, be strong, and meet your troubles head-on. You can conquer just about anything if you’ll just face it.
  5. Communicate Openly: Nothing beats speaking directly and respectfully. When we can feel safe about sharing and receiving direct communication, we grow exponentially.
  6. Give Praise: Generously acknowledge the talents and achievements of colleagues. A genuine thank-you energizes colleagues who work hard to bring success to projects.
  7. Seek Input From Others: It’s important to build consensus and to seek feedback to involve others when making important decisions. When we seek input in safe conversations, others will be more likely to support projects they have helped develop. More importantly, they’ll feel valued and recognized.
  8. Keep Learning and Growing: I have spent hours at home learning to play guitar and honing my skills. Although I love music and love to play, it has been hard work. However, the years of hard work have paid off.

I believe Implementing these steps will help restore corporate culture and build stronger teams going forward.

Ask Kevin: How Does USANA Maintain its Strong Corporate Culture?

Here’s an answer to a question I received on social media. If you’re unable to view the video below, please watch it on my YouTube channel.

I shared these thoughts and more in a news release that went out on June 1, 2022.

What I’m Reading: Billy Joel

As part of the occasional What I’m Reading series, here’s a recent book I’ve read and have enjoyed. Billy Joel is an American songwriter I’ve admired for as long as I can remember. A little while ago, I read a biography about the music legend.

I’m reading this book more for entertainment purposes, though I’m also learning a lot about Joel. He, in my opinion, is one of the greatest American songwriters of pop music ever. Somebody that musically I’ve really followed and been a fan of his music for as long as I can remember.

It’s interesting as you read about celebrities, and how often their lives are filled with ups and downs. Just like everyone, I suppose. He’s had many challenges, which is where a lot of his great music has come from, I think.

But he’s always had his love and passion for music, which has always rescued him when things were not going the best.

I wouldn’t necessarily pattern my life after that of Billy Joel, but I certainly love his music.

Keith Urban Chats with Kevin Guest at Virtual Event

Legendary singer/songwriter Keith Urban visits with USANA Chairman & CEO Kevin Guest at the 2020 USANA Americas-Europe Virtual Convention.

Throughout the 30-minute conversation, Urban discusses his musical career, leading a large organization, and how he’s coping with the worldwide pandemic.


If you’re unable to view the above video, please click here to watch it on YouTube.

Among the topics Keith Urban discusses…

  • 00:00 Introduction
  • 01:50 How has this year (2020) changed your mindset?
  • 02:50 How has your leadership style changed during the pandemic?
  • 03:45 What’s your philosophy on how to treat people?
  • 05:20 When did you start playing guitar, and how did you become such a master of the instrument?
  • 06:35 How do you handle being told no and keep yourself moving forward?
  • 08:40 What does success mean to you?
  • 09:37 What does music mean to you?
  • 10:26 What is the music-writing process like for you?
  • 12:15 Talk about an instance where a song of yours has had a dramatic effect in someone’s life?
  • 13:25 Can you share your drive to give back?
  • 15:29 What does good health mean to you and how do you maintain your health, especially on the road?
  • 17:05 What are some activities you and your family have been doing during the quarantine?
  • 17:50 What would your dream venue be to perform?
  • 18:40 What does it feel like being on stage with thousands of people singing your songs back to you?
  • 19:43 Talk about Clarence, your Fender Telecaster guitar
  • 21:20 Who is one artist you’d like to collaborate with and why?
  • 22:30 What have been unique parenting challenges for you this year?
  • 23:40 Why do you go into the audience at many of your concerts?
  • 25:15 With a new virtual way of connecting, have you learned something new that you didn’t expect about connecting with people?
  • 26:30 Is there a song you look forward to performing every night?

CEO Magazine North America Features Kevin Guest

CEO Magazine North America featured Kevin Guest, USANA Chairman & CEO, in its June-July 2022 issue.

The wide-ranging article, which starts on page 111, discusses Kevin’s approach to leading a billion-dollar company. It outlines how living a life in harmony plays a critical role in Kevin’s personal and professional endeavors.

Setting clear priorities is one piece of advice Kevin shares. By doing so, one’s able to regulate personal energy, cope with stress, and avoid various problems and pitfalls that may arise.

CEO Magazine North America - June-July 2022

Full Article: All the Right Reasons to Lead a Billion-Dollar Nutrition Business (PDF / Web)

The article traces Kevin’s path from growing up in Montana to starting his own business to leading USANA Health Sciences. The Salt Lake City-based company, which operates in 24 markets worldwide, celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2022.

“I thank all our employees for their hard work and all our stakeholders for their continued support as we work to create the healthiest family on earth,” Kevin is quoted as saying in the article.

CEO Magazine North America, distributed throughout the United States and Canada, serves as a core business publication for C-Suite executives.

“USANA’s CEO Kevin Guest loves music and believes in living life to the fullest. He also keeps working hard putting a healthy, happy life within reach for all.” — CEO Magazine North America

World Service Week 2022: Ways to Serve

Today marks the beginning of USANA World Service Week 2022. Each year, the global USANA Family rolls up its sleeves and gives back to the community. This is the sixth time we’ve coordinated a week of service, and each year I’m more impressed by the response.

In 2021, I received several wonderful messages from readers who were participating in one way or another.

I invite you to read about George Steciuk, a longtime USANA Associate who ran a 5K daily during World Service Week and raised money for The USANA Foundation.

World Service Week 2022 1920x640

Throughout the year, the USANA Foundation’s blog and social media share stories about individuals who are working to make a difference.

In fact, the USANA Foundation recently wrote a blog post with a handful of ideas for giving back…

There’s plenty you can do to serve someone else:

  • 🍱 Pay for a stranger’s lunch
  • 🥫Volunteer at a food bank
  • 🪴Help tend someone’s garden
  • 🥕 Adopt a Garden Tower
  • 🛒 Pick up groceries for a neighbor
  • 👩🏻‍🍳 Cook dinner for a friend who’s sick or home-bound

…and the list goes on!

The post continues by sharing stories of inspiration from our global USANA Family. Thank you in advance for helping to make a positive impact in the world this week and every week.

World Service Week

Here’s a short video I recorded ahead of last year’s event.

Giving Back

There are so many opportunities to get involved and to make a difference. If you’re looking for inspiration, you can donate, learn how to become a USANA Foundation Ambassador, or fundraise through the USANA Foundation website.

Please share your projects and photos, and connect online with #WorldServiceWeek22.

As always, 100% of all USANA Foundation donations go toward helping those most in need. You can help us reach our goal of raising 30,000 Garden Towers by donating here.

#WhereHopeisGrown 🌱