The world is John Amtmann’s playground.

If you look up John on Facebook, you will see that is true. You will find a bunch of photos and videos of John whitewater rafting, descending a cliff, rolling on the mats, riding his mountain bike or one of many other activities. You would have to think that he rarely ever sleeps.

John disputes that, however. He says that his favorite hobby is to take naps.

When he isn’t teaching in the biological science department at Montana Tech, he is driving an ambulance, working as a ski patrol or life guard or delivering pizzas around Chicago. He grew up in Arlington Heights, which is a suburb of the Windy City.

Recently, John spent time backpacking around Japan in a quest to learn more about the martial arts.

John really is one of the most interesting men you will ever meet. He is too down to earth to go by “Dr. Amtmann,” even though that is a title he earned.

He is the father of three girls — Aidan, Hannah and Devin. While some have said the way he raised his daughter was dangers, John said he raised them to live. They are now three successful adults who also have a lot of fun.

In fact, John was kayaking on the Big Hole River with one of his daughters right before this podcast, which was recorded in the Team Room of the Metals Sports Bar & Grill.

Listen in to hear John talk about growing up in Chicagoland and the many times he has gone back. Listen to why he says he earned postseason honors as a very undersized defensive end in high school.

Listen to hear his teaching and parenting philosophies and to hear what he learned in his journey through The Land of The Rising Sun.

Today’s podcast is brought to you by Leskovar Honda, home of the 20-year, 200,000-mile warrantee.