Thank you for reading! The idea for this memoir started in May of 2017, when I had a serendipitous encounter in a hotel lobby with a Hollywood writer and director, Anna Elizabeth James, who has since become a friend. Because she understands the importance of storytelling, she has urged me to write my story down for my children, grandchildren and yet-to-be-born great-grandchildren. She believes that they will enjoy reading it – and that it might even help them as they face junctures in life when decisions need to be made. I started writing in April 2018 and, with much help from my friends Brandy Hash and Amanda Caines, proudly received my finished books in July 2019! If you want a copy, please go to http://www.mystorytimbien.com/request-a-copy/ and I’ll happily mail it to you.
Please Tell Me What You Think!
I hope you had as much fun reading this book as I had writing it! I would love to know what your favorite part was, or if something in particular moved you or struck a chord with you. Make an entry using the button below! If you haven’t read the book yet and you want a copy, please go to http://www.mystorytimbien.com/request-a-copy/ so I can send you one.
73 entries.
wrote on May 26, 2021 at 6:50 pm:
I recently read this, and really enjoyed it. There are parts that are family history and more relevant to family members, but the book as whole spoke to me at this point in my life. One of the overarching themes I took to heart was about taking risks. I’m smack in the middle of one, and this helped remind me that I have to give it some time. It’s always scary in the beginning.
Your mother was a wise woman. A job worth doing is worth doing well. I marvel at the fact that she raised you all after your father passed.
I really liked this line, “If you listen actively to new people, and you are aware of new happenings and possibilities, your life can change for the better.” - How true! But you have to get out of your own way first. Your stories showed how you encompassed this and the rest, they say, is history. Serendipity has touched so many crucial moments in your life. It was really interesting to read. To see it come full circle with Anna was really special.
I’d love to do this myself one day, when my story has a few more pages. Thanks for opening yourself up, and putting this into the world. I am personally glad that you did.
wrote on March 30, 2021 at 4:19 pm:
Bet you thought I would never deliver on my promise. Well thanks to Lent (not that reading your book is a sacrifice, just that I vowed to handle relationships I had been letting slide), here goes.
First, I think it is a tremendous gift, especially for your family, to capture the details of your life as you have done. I wish I had $5 for all the times I have kicked myself for not finding out more about my parents and other relatives before they passed. There will be no such regrets for your family.
In regards to your memory, I think it is pretty amazing. Details you can still call to mind about every point in your life are really quite incredible.
I am not surprised that I learned lots of things about you, but I am stunned that I just found out (or possibly MY memory is not so good) some things that happened while we were still in reasonable touch; like wanting to go to Notre Dame, being hit by a car, being robbed twice, writing an important tool for the pharmaceutical industry (GPCC).
It was fun reading about your rise to success. I knew bits and pieces of that, but I applaud your initiative at the age of 30 that led to you becoming a millionaire at 38.
The thing that pleases me most about my 22-year involvement in the Super Bowl is the number of people I was able to positively impact over those years. Naturally, I greatly enjoyed readying about your experiences. Some I knew (or recall!), some are just hitting me. Such as your seats in the stands next to Donald Trump, your adventures with Joe Namath, and your life-saving act with a Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader! Because of where I had to be on the day of the game, there were some opportunities I missed. So I have to admit to envy that you got to personally meet (I only spoke on the phone) General Norman Schwarzkopf.
As this book clearly lays out, you have been a man blessed in many ways. At this stage in our lives we can look back on the "fast lane" experiences we have had that were so important at the time that now matter far less. As your book reflects, what really counts is our family, what we have learned from our journey, and how we can help others with the time we have left.
Sorry it took so long, but I thoroughly enjoyed the read.
wrote on January 29, 2021 at 11:51 pm:
There is so much serendipity in the world!
Tim and I met in the Wild West of Instagram...and actually met face-to-face at Casa Bien. It’s strange how things work out and it’s strange how people are destined to meet for a reason..
Like Tim said, there is always a silver lining, or something special to see if you open your mind and your eyes...
Until the last page, my favorite theory of this wonderful book was to take risks. It’s the decisions that scare you that are the most necessary. This moved me (and still does), as someone who maybe considers things beyond responsibly!
But I got to the last page and Tim states that he was unsure what thoughts to leave on at the end of this book. And maybe that’s what he’d like for us to remember. Life is full of ‘unsure moments’.
This hit me deeply and I’m grateful I had the chance to read this book....
Every person we meet shapes who we are and I’m grateful for meeting Tim and having his story change who I am...
Thank you Tim for taking the time and devotion to finish and release your story and your advice to your readers. 🧡🐙🦁
wrote on December 27, 2020 at 8:19 pm:
My daughter was fortunately encouraged to read Tim Bien’s book. I noticed it and asked if I could read it first. She said sure and a few days passed, I hadn’t finished, but I was taking it a few pages at a time and thought it was an interesting recall of someone’s life. To my surprise, a few dozen pages in as the events turned abruptly, I read on and it’s been 8 hours and I haven’t been able to put the book down. I told my daughter that this brunch was delicious and she said, “Mom, it’s 3 o'clock in the afternoon!” What a thriller, what a life!
wrote on November 21, 2020 at 2:22 am:
Great story Tim, I thoroughly enjoyed your story. You've had a wonderful life and made a difference in the lives of many others, including me. We chose to sell to OCR in large part based on our trust in your promise to treat us well...and you were good to your word. Thanks for all you did for the elderly over the years, and thanks for your leadership. I am also writing a book about the miracles I have seen in my life. Hopefully someday we can catch up. Till then stay safe.
wrote on November 2, 2020 at 7:40 pm:
This was such a fun insight into your life. Reading your story made me reminisce about certain parts of mine. I enjoyed reading your stories and learning about the frog joke (I was so confused at first year!) I’m so glad that we both took a chance on talking to a stranger all those years ago ! It’s great to know I’ll always have a base for chicken fights. Thank you, Tim for opening up your world and sharing it with the rest of us.
wrote on September 29, 2020 at 11:41 pm:
Tim! What a fantastic read! I have been beyond blessed getting to know you over the past few months. What a delight it was to read about your life! A couple of things have stuck out to me:
- Upside down ketchup bottles: I still do this too!
- Overcoming life’s hiccups and battles to create life change and opportunity for yourself
- Your family’s bond: My family is extremely important to me, as I know yours is as well.
- Your family holidays and vacations: Some of the most special times of the year for me too! So many memories and traditions come from these shared moments!
- Your discipline and dedication to hard work: This is applicable to ALL areas of life (family, career, sport, mentoring, etc) but it makes life “super fun” if you’re passionate about what you’re reaching for!
- Serendipitous events: I love how God works and how He weaves our lives in and out with each others’. It’s times like these that make me smile, take a step back and say, “Well, hi God!”
I so appreciate you writing this book. I think we can all glean wisdom from your tenacity, your passion, and your positive thinking for our own life journeys. I know I sure have! Thank you for being YOU!
wrote on September 3, 2020 at 9:19 pm:
I am so honored to be able to have read your memoir. Thank you for sharing. I have learned so much about the extraordinary Tim Bien . I am honored to be able to call you my friend. I enjoyed reading about your work accomplishments and relationships. I will certainly have you in mind when dealing with co-workers. You handled so many situations with thought and compassion. The fact that you always had the patients well being in mind says so much about you. You are loved and admired by so many, including myself. I am amazed by your long term friendships and the openness you have shared. Your compassion is one for the record books. Thank you for letting me experience the wonderful Casa Bien. I look forward to seeing you soon.
wrote on August 18, 2020 at 1:40 am:
Thank you dearly for your friendship which, originated with you generously opening the doors of your home to a complete stranger, through Kristina’s invitation. I admire and commend you authoring a beautifully detailed memoir; your legacy, for those you love dearest. This book gives a profound meaning to the expression: “Labor of Love”. Your love for your family, for helping others, and your love for life in general, was definitely conveyed in the text. I wish you continued success in all of your positive endeavors, good health, infinite blessings, love, light, and wisdom. With much respect and appreciation,
O. Xiomara Luna.
XOXO
wrote on August 10, 2020 at 1:49 am:
Tim! Thank you so much for sharing your story and for your amazing hospitality! You are Such an interesting and complex person who has found so many ways to make a profound and positive difference to the world and especially to those close to you! I’m inspired by your ambition and drive, and your courage in always challenging yourself in new ways. And then crushing your goals! I am grateful to know you and I can’t wait to see what you will do next!!! I’m sure you have many chapters still to write! Great book!! xo
wrote on August 4, 2020 at 3:38 pm:
Tim, I loved reading your memoir! Your life story is an amazing inspiration to everyone. I am very touched by the love, passion and generosity that you have given to so many people. I loved the quotes throughout the book. Thanks for sharing your story and welcoming me to Casa Bien yearly. I look forward to seeing the beautiful sunset overlooking the lake.
wrote on August 3, 2020 at 7:26 pm:
Thanks for the fun read Tim. It has given me a lot of insight as to what you find to be important in life, what your education has been, and how your personal relationships have evolved. I am glad you offered this for others to learn from, perhaps even gleen a few secrets to your success and methods of “inspiration” for others. I found the most insightful portion of the book to be the section entitled “It Could Be Me”, and while you had written this back in September 2016, it couldn’t be more applicable to the world as it is now,. Some parts may have to be adjusted or amended as we learn more and more about which organizations are helping the cause and which ones immpeed progress toward of equality. I think this topic is one that deserves your continued attention.
wrote on August 3, 2020 at 3:17 pm:
Hi Tim, What a fun, easy read this was! You brought me back to a time when I opened up our home refrigerator to the nastiest stench ever, LIMBURGER CHEESE! My Dad loves that stuff, and I think it smells like moldy socks! I had no idea what "Your Story" was until I read your book. What an interesting life you've lived! I got a good laugh, and I chuckled as well with the part when you asked the Archbishop for a day off school and he obliged! You had to be the coolest kid in Cincinnati at that exact time. I know you've always been fun and generous to me and my friends, and other guests, but I had no clue about all of the other organizations you were involved in and donate to. Good for you! I love how in touch with your family you are. You make them all feel special and loved, and you love to spend time with them. <3 When I read about the meaning of a kokopellis, I was thinking that we should name it "Caroline the Kokopellis." Then I saw that you refer to your large one as a "he." So, we will call him Timmy..... Another guy named after you! In a few days, you'll have to explain to me how that pink Xavier sweatshirt ended up costing you $20,000!!! See you soon Tim!
wrote on August 3, 2020 at 1:41 am:
Hi Tim,
I really enjoyed reading your memoir, “ My Story, including elephants and kokopellis”. What an interesting life you have lead. I love how so many people have made such an impact on you. A common thread I’ve noticed throughout the book is how you you know what you want, make plans and go for it. One thing we have in common is our love for a yellow bug. It is my favourite car and one day when I retire it is the car I want to putter about in! Thanks for always being such an incredible host and an inspiration to so many.
Katrina
wrote on July 30, 2020 at 7:35 pm:
Tim, I absolutely loved your story. Everything was so descriptive I could visualize many of the places and conversations you had.
From the apartment/pharmacy to the big move to your house in the suburbs along with all of your friends in the neighborhood.
Although I knew pieces of the Mitchell's pharmacy story, I didn't know that you did not intend to be a pharmacist like your dad and that serendipity of your step dad taking you there for a part-time job led to your interest. I can picture you sweeping, pouring the coffee on the lock, rolling your eyes when the new gal wouldn't borrow some milk of magnesia from the other patient.
I still get goose bumps over the fallen Pharmacy license when you shook on your new deal.
I did not know that you met Chuck Porter on Clovernook and him needing someone to join him and it led you to Lake Norman.
I loved the vision of your house at Christmas with the big covering for Santa and the elves to do their work. Still chuckle when you played Santa for Ava and John and you inadvertently pulled down the beard to drink the milk.
When you mentioned the Z3 having 9300 miles on it, I know at least 500 are from me when you lent it to me for my birthday and I had a difficult time returning it 🙂
When Megan found that elephant when you were first shopping post divorce, strangely I have a similar story. Right after divorcing John, I went to Homegoods with the kids and John John found a wooden sculpture with 3 elephants stacked on top of each other. He shouted out, 'mom, that's our family now'. He was right-it was the 3 of us. Gets me teary eyed because I remember the feeling of the new journey and like you, am fond of elephants now too.
I am so glad you found the silver linings in life's challenges and that your fondness for the elderly led you to do great things (formulary) and have a successful career with Omnicare.
I am grateful I found you along my journey as a dear friend. Love you Tim!
wrote on July 28, 2020 at 12:45 pm:
Hi Tim! I loved reading "My Story, Including Elephants & Kokopellis". I read most of it last summer by the pool and I had the pleasure of revisiting your story last week in a more appropriate setting....poolside by a lake. I almost felt like I was at "Casa Bien"!
I loved the explanation of your thought processes and how they helped you to make the decisions that shaped your life. With grit and determination you accomplished so much. I especially enjoyed reading about your Mom, your children and your grandchildren. Your story is such a beautiful gift to your loved ones!
Thank you for sharing your story.
wrote on July 28, 2020 at 2:02 am:
Tim -
Thank you for sharing your story! I always wondered about your journey and how you got to be where you are today. Such a great idea - this book was the perfect way for me to start.
It may have answered a lot of questions, but I learn something new about you each time we meet. I look forward to learning more and more.
I admire the love and respect you have for your family and friends. I appreciate the kindness, thoughtfulness and generosity that you have shown me and my Jersey girls each time we visit. It’s always a wonderful time at Casa Bien.
As you may know, I truly believe everything happens for a reason and timing in life is everything.
You and I are similar in the way that we meet people and form (sometimes instant) friendships and bonds that can last a lifetime. I believe you’re one of those people for me.
Congratulations on all of your accomplishments and for the many more to come. (I know you’re not done yet!) You’re truly an inspiration. Thank you for being you!
Love, your friend always, Kristina “KVT”
XO
wrote on July 17, 2020 at 3:33 pm:
I had the pleasure of getting this book last summer, and did a re-read this summer with my quarantined free time. I loved reading about your journey and how you can identify decisions in your life that changed the direction of it. You are an inspiration for me and I have enjoyed every conversation I’ve had. This book helped me know who Tim is, and I want to thank you for letting us into your story.
wrote on May 21, 2020 at 5:00 pm:
I really enjoyed reading the book after my first visit to Casa Bien! The stories of moving up through companies and how hard work does pay off is truly inspiring. Thank you for sharing your story!
wrote on April 5, 2020 at 1:37 pm:
I read your book sometime ago and found it so interesting in two ways. It gave me a great recap of Omnicare and a better insight into the man, Tim Bien. My career with OCR started in 1990 and I met you soon after and worked with you and Kitty. Those were great times over the 23 years I was there. I appreciate all you have done and continue to do for humanity. Thanks you so much! You also look great with all the changes you have made for you this year! Keep up with the good work you are doing. Wishing you the best, Carolyn