Fishing Without Bait 447: The Man Before Beastman
Michael Sorg Michael Sorg

Fishing Without Bait 447: The Man Before Beastman

In this heartfelt and introspective episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer welcomes professional wrestler The Beastman (Wes Fetty) for a raw and inspiring conversation. Stepping beyond the ring, Wes opens up about his personal journey, from his childhood in West Virginia to overcoming adversity and carving his own path in the world of professional wrestling.

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Fishing Without Bait 456: We Have a Book! Introducing "Learn to Fish Without Bait"
Michael Sorg Michael Sorg

Fishing Without Bait 456: We Have a Book! Introducing "Learn to Fish Without Bait"

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer and producer Mike introduce a powerful new tool for mindfulness and self-exploration—an interactive book crafted by Missy Sorg. This unique resource combines daily adult coloring pages and journaling prompts designed to help individuals cultivate self-awareness, reduce stress, and embrace full-impact mindfulness.

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Fishing Without Bait 455: Overcoming Fear & Chaos: A Mindful Approach to Life’s Challenges
Michael Sorg Michael Sorg

Fishing Without Bait 455: Overcoming Fear & Chaos: A Mindful Approach to Life’s Challenges

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer, a behavioral health therapist, explores the challenges of navigating uncertainty, fear, and chaos in our modern world. Joined by co-host Mike Sorg, they reflect on historical periods of crisis—ranging from World War II to the Cuban Missile Crisis—and compare them to today’s social and economic struggles, including rising prices, job insecurity, and political unrest.

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Fishing Without Bait 454: Chris Maverick on Mindfulness, Pop Culture, and Building a Joyful Life
Michael Sorg Michael Sorg

Fishing Without Bait 454: Chris Maverick on Mindfulness, Pop Culture, and Building a Joyful Life

In this enlightening episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer welcomes Chris Maverick, professor at the University of Pittsburgh and host of the VoxPopcast. Together, they explore the importance of hobbies and mindfulness in combating stress and living a fulfilling life. Chris shares his journey from a high-stress corporate career to academia, emphasizing the value of recreation and personal growth. They delve into the joy of simple pleasures, from building Lego sets with loved ones to podcasting with family, and how these activities foster connection and creativity.

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Fishing Without Bait 453:  How does social media impact self-worth and identity with Chris Maverick
Michael Sorg Michael Sorg

Fishing Without Bait 453: How does social media impact self-worth and identity with Chris Maverick

Explore how social media shapes self-worth, identity, and modern challenges in this thought-provoking episode of Fishing Without Bait with Jim Ellermeyer and special guest Chris Maverick. Together, they uncover the realities of influencer culture, the impact of gender dynamics, and the dangers of fear-based narratives in today’s digital world. Learn practical mindfulness techniques to overcome social comparison and embrace authenticity. Whether you’re navigating curated realities or seeking personal empowerment, this episode equips you with the tools to thrive. Watch now and start your journey to a more mindful life!

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Fishing Without Bait 452: From the Ring to the Classroom: Chris Maverick on Wrestling, Storytelling, and Mindfulness
Michael Sorg Michael Sorg

Fishing Without Bait 452: From the Ring to the Classroom: Chris Maverick on Wrestling, Storytelling, and Mindfulness

Join Jim Ellermeyer in this fascinating episode of Fishing Without Bait as he welcomes Chris Maverick, professor of digital narrative interactive design at the University of Pittsburgh, and a former professional wrestler. Together, they dive into the world of pro wrestling, exploring its unique blend of storytelling, athleticism, and improv. Chris shares his personal journey, from developing larger-than-life wrestling personas to balancing his academic career and wrestling life, revealing the liberating power of performance.

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Fishing Without Bait 443: From Software Design to Pop Culture Studies: Christopher Maverick’s Journey
Michael Sorg Michael Sorg

Fishing Without Bait 443: From Software Design to Pop Culture Studies: Christopher Maverick’s Journey

In this insightful episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer welcomes Christopher Maverick, a professor of digital narrative interactive design at the University of Pittsburgh, for a conversation blending academia, pop culture, and mindfulness. Together, they explore the intersection of humanities and technology, with Maverick sharing his journey from software design to teaching subjects like comics, graphic novels, and cultural studies.

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 A Mindful New Year’s Message
Michael Sorg Michael Sorg

A Mindful New Year’s Message

Happy New Year from the Fishing Without Bait Podcast! 🎉 This year, skip the resolutions and focus on mindful intentions backed by purposeful actions. Remember, life is a collection of small victories—celebrate each one.

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Happy Holidays from the Fishing Without Bait Podcast
Michael Sorg Michael Sorg

Happy Holidays from the Fishing Without Bait Podcast

Celebrate the season with the Fishing Without Bait Podcast! 🎄✨ Join us as we send our heartfelt holiday wishes for mindfulness, joy, and purpose in your life. Thank you for being part of our journey this year! 🌟

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Fishing Without Bait 450: A Mindful Holiday Season: Balance, Boundaries, and Joy
Michael Sorg Michael Sorg

Fishing Without Bait 450: A Mindful Holiday Season: Balance, Boundaries, and Joy

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer tackles the stress and challenges many face during the holiday season. Jim shares practical strategies for navigating family dynamics, managing expectations, and prioritizing self-care during this busy time of year. With his signature blend of mindfulness and intentional living, he offers listeners tools to stay grounded, embrace the present moment, and rediscover the true meaning of the holidays.

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Fishing Without Bait 449: Breaking the Chains of Generational Trauma with Bronwyn Schweigerdt
Michael Sorg Michael Sorg

Fishing Without Bait 449: Breaking the Chains of Generational Trauma with Bronwyn Schweigerdt

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer engages in a profound conversation with Bronwyn Schweigerdt, a psychotherapist and anger expert. Bronwyn delves into the impact of generational trauma and the importance of breaking cycles of shame. She shares transformative techniques for forgiveness, explaining the role of self-reflection and externalizing emotions in healing. The discussion extends to the philosophy of forgiveness, viewing it as a personal liberation rather than exoneration of others.

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Fishing Without Bait 448: From Suppressed Anger to Self-Attunement: A Therapist’s Journey with Bronwyn Schweigerdt
Michael Sorg Michael Sorg

Fishing Without Bait 448: From Suppressed Anger to Self-Attunement: A Therapist’s Journey with Bronwyn Schweigerdt

Dive into an enlightening conversation on Fishing Without Bait with host Jim Ellermeyer as he welcomes Bronwyn Schweigerdt, a psychotherapist, licensed marriage and family therapist, and anger expert. Together, they unravel the complexities of anger, its role in mental health, and its connection to emotions like shame and validation. Bronwyn shares her personal journey through depression, revealing how suppressed anger and societal conditioning shaped her path to becoming a therapist.

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Fishing Without Bait 447: Navigating Family Dynamics and Social Media Stressors with Missy Sorg
Michael Sorg Michael Sorg

Fishing Without Bait 447: Navigating Family Dynamics and Social Media Stressors with Missy Sorg

In this engaging episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer welcomes Missy Sorg for a thoughtful conversation about navigating relationships, communication, and mindfulness in today’s complex social landscape. Missy shares her insights on addressing challenges with family and friends holding differing philosophies, the importance of offering solutions instead of complaints, and maintaining a balanced approach to social media interactions. They discuss the significance of setting personal goals, managing emotional triggers, and fostering meaningful connections through active listening and empathy.

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Fishing Without Bait 446: How to Foster Friendships in a Divisive World with Missy Sorg
Michael Sorg Michael Sorg

Fishing Without Bait 446: How to Foster Friendships in a Divisive World with Missy Sorg

Join host Jim Ellermeyer on Fishing Without Bait, where mindfulness meets candid conversation. In this episode, Jim sits down with co-producer Missy Sorg for an insightful discussion about navigating friendships, differing opinions, and active listening in a polarized world. Missy shares her experiences during a tumultuous campaign season, reflecting on how personal values and beliefs impact relationships. Together, they explore the importance of respectful dialogue, understanding perspectives, and fostering meaningful connections despite ideological differences. This heartfelt episode offers valuable lessons on communication, mindfulness, and embracing openness in challenging times.

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Fishing Without Bait 445: A Conversation on Faith, Letting Go, and Purpose with Tara From keepcomingback.net
Michael Sorg Michael Sorg

Fishing Without Bait 445: A Conversation on Faith, Letting Go, and Purpose with Tara From keepcomingback.net

In this heartfelt episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer welcomes back Tara from the Keep Coming Back podcast, diving deep into themes of connection, surrender, and spiritual growth. Tara opens up about her journey, discussing the significance of letting go, supported by her spiritual practices and faith. She shares how mindful moments, whether through meditation, nature, or tarot, reinforce her relationship with her higher power. Tara’s story of personal struggles, alongside her insightful analogy of parenting and spirituality, brings humor and depth to the discussion. Together, they explore how changing perspectives can lead to peace and understanding, moving beyond ego to focus on what truly matters. Jim and Tara touch on the value of self-talk and the transformative power of the 12-step program in finding purpose and clarity in life’s complexities. This episode offers a refreshing blend of wisdom and wit for anyone on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance.

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Fishing Without Bait 444: The Gift of Desperation with Tara From keepcomingback.net
Michael Sorg Michael Sorg

Fishing Without Bait 444: The Gift of Desperation with Tara From keepcomingback.net

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer welcomes Tara from the KeepComingBack.net Podcast. They delve into the nuances of recovery, discussing the crucial concept of “the gift of desperation” and the role of tough love in sobriety. Tara reflects on her experiences in the 12-step community, exploring the balance between supporting loved ones and avoiding enabling behaviors. She candidly shares her journey of overcoming complacency and recognizing personal growth through the program. Together, Jim and Tara discuss the importance of community, humility, and staying connected to like-minded individuals who offer unique support in recovery. Tara also opens up about the challenges of applying these principles in daily life outside recovery meetings. This heartfelt conversation provides insight into the resilience required for lasting change, making it a must-listen for those interested in addiction recovery, mindfulness, and personal growth.

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Fishing Without Bait 443: Stewardship and Sobriety: Navigating Recovery with Tara From keepcomingback.net
Michael Sorg Michael Sorg

Fishing Without Bait 443: Stewardship and Sobriety: Navigating Recovery with Tara From keepcomingback.net

In this insightful episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer welcomes back Tara from the KeepComingBack.net podcast. Tara discusses her mission of sharing recovery journeys through modern speaker tapes, offering listeners the chance to hear individuals’ paths to sobriety and hope. The conversation delves into deep themes of ownership and stewardship, particularly in the context of 12-step philosophy, where individuals are seen as stewards rather than owners of people and possessions. Tara opens up about balancing her material success with her higher power’s influence, viewing her resources as tools for community support rather than personal gain. They also explore the pervasive role of fear, as highlighted in the recovery journey, and how spiritual growth aids in addressing it. This episode is a profound look at shared experiences, hope, and personal growth in the recovery journey, appealing to listeners seeking encouragement and wisdom in life’s challenges.

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Fishing Without Bait 442: Inside the Music: Tim Vitullo & Mike Dawson on Joy, Growth, and Collaboration
Michael Sorg Michael Sorg

Fishing Without Bait 442: Inside the Music: Tim Vitullo & Mike Dawson on Joy, Growth, and Collaboration

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer sits down with musicians Tim Vitullo and Mike Dawson to discuss their first collaboration album, LUNR ECCOS, ahead of their release party at Club Cafe on November 10. The duo shares their journey of creating the album, which centers around experimental and space-inspired instrumental music. They explore themes of internal validation, the struggles of balancing creativity with day jobs, and the importance of commitment in their art. Tim and Mike reflect on their creative process, from improvisation to looping techniques, and how collaboration helped them push boundaries. The episode dives into their inspirations, including Brian Eno and Robert Fripp, and how they applied these influences in crafting their unique sound. If you’re a fan of music innovation, this episode offers an intimate look into the mindset of these artists as they prepare to launch their groundbreaking album. Don’t miss this deep dive into the creative minds behind LUNR ECCOS.

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Fishing Without Bait 441: Crafting Space Sounds: The Making of LUNR ECCOS with Tim Vitullo & Mike Dawson
Michael Sorg Michael Sorg

Fishing Without Bait 441: Crafting Space Sounds: The Making of LUNR ECCOS with Tim Vitullo & Mike Dawson

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer sits down with musicians Tim Vitullo and Mike Dawson to discuss their first collaboration album, LUNR ECCOS, ahead of their release party at Club Cafe on November 10. The duo shares their journey of creating the album, which centers around experimental and space-inspired instrumental music. They explore themes of internal validation, the struggles of balancing creativity with day jobs, and the importance of commitment in their art. Tim and Mike reflect on their creative process, from improvisation to looping techniques, and how collaboration helped them push boundaries. The episode dives into their inspirations, including Brian Eno and Robert Fripp, and how they applied these influences in crafting their unique sound. If you’re a fan of music innovation, this episode offers an intimate look into the mindset of these artists as they prepare to launch their groundbreaking album. Don’t miss this deep dive into the creative minds behind LUNR ECCOS.

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Fishing Without Bait 440: Breaking Musical Boundaries: Tim Vitullo & Mike Dawson on LUNR ECCOS
Michael Sorg Michael Sorg

Fishing Without Bait 440: Breaking Musical Boundaries: Tim Vitullo & Mike Dawson on LUNR ECCOS

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer sits down with musicians Tim Vitullo and Mike Dawson to discuss their latest collaboration, LUNR ECCOS. The duo dives into the creative process behind the album, set to be released on November 10 at Club Cafe in Pittsburgh. They share insights into their experimental approach, embracing the freedom to break musical rules and explore uncharted sonic territories. Tim and Mike reflect on the challenges of pushing beyond their comfort zones, abandoning traditional music structures to create something truly unique. The conversation also touches on the importance of accountability, artistic growth, and finding inspiration in discomfort. Tune in for an introspective look at how these two artists came together to produce a one-of-a-kind project. Be sure to check out their album release party and join the journey of LUNR ECCOS.

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