Fishing Without Bait

In this eye-opening episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer is joined once again by producer Mike Sorg to explore how modern media shapes our identities, fuels our purchases, and even distorts our sense of self-worth. From emotional manipulation in advertising to influencer culture and data-driven targeting, Jim and Mike unpack the psychological tactics behind today’s media and tech. How does a Power Glove from the ’80s connect to the viral influencer culture of today? Are we in control of our choices—or are we reacting without realizing it? In this episode: • Why media makes us feel “less than” • Celebrity endorsements vs. authentic influence • Targeted ads, data mining, and algorithmic persuasion • Unrealistic expectations and identity loss in the digital age • The mental health toll of comparison culture • What it really means to be unmanageable • Mindful practices to resist manipulation “It’s much easier to fool someone than to convince them they’re being fooled.”

In Episode 487 of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer is joined by producer Mike Sorg for a heartfelt conversation rooted in the enduring wisdom of Fred Rogers. Together, they explore themes of uncertainty, emotional resilience, and self-acceptance through the lens of full-impact mindfulness. This episode dives into Mr. Rogers’ most impactful quotes, including “I like you just the way you are,” and how these simple yet profound affirmations can guide us through fear, overwhelm, and self-doubt. Jim and Mike reflect on the concept of “leveling up” in life like a video game—gaining experience, becoming more resilient, and making meaningful choices. Listeners will hear discussions on: • Managing emotions by making them “mentionable and manageable” • Accepting life’s challenges without needing immediate solutions • The importance of being a helper—or recognizing helpers around you • The difference between kindness and being “right” • Embracing who you are and offering that same grace to o

In this episode, Jim Ellermeyer invites you to reflect on one of the most fundamental shifts you can make in life: choosing to live intentionally rather than simply existing. Together with producer Mike Sorg, Jim explores the concept of being a human being rather than a human doing, and how small mindful changes—like replacing “I have to” with “I choose to”—can radically transform your daily experience.

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, Jim Ellermeyer and producer Mike explore the powerful concept of cognitive clarity—the antidote to anxiety and the constant mental noise of modern life. Learn how to manage racing thoughts, move from fear-based reactivity to logical clarity, and reclaim your emotional sovereignty by choosing your own narrative over external expectations. ✨ Topics include: • Why anxiety lives in the future • How to externalize racing thoughts • Regaining emotional sovereignty from validation-seeking • Listening to learn vs. listening to respond • The ancient meaning of “Abracadabra” and why your words matter

In this thought-provoking episode of Fishing Without Bait, Jim Ellermeyer and co-host Mike Sorg engage in a profound exploration of the core values shared by the world’s major faiths—from Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Sikhism, Confucianism, to Taoism. Amid global conflict and division, the hosts reflect on the universal threads of compassion, humility, charity, integrity, and justice that connect these traditions. They challenge listeners to look beyond dogma and doctrine and focus on our shared humanity—especially in times of violence and suffering.

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, Jim Ellermeyer and producer Mike Sorg take a transformative dive into a concept often overlooked in recovery, education, parenting, and everyday life: positive chain analysis. Rather than dwelling on mistakes or missteps, Jim challenges us to ask a better question—What worked? When something goes right in your life, your recovery, your work, or your relationships, how often do you pause and examine the people, places, and circumstances that helped make it happen? Through stories from the production world, recovery work, and even the brewing of a perfect glass of iced tea, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and mindful reflection. ✨ Topics include: • Why we need to reinforce success, not just correct failure • How to build confidence in teams and individuals • Ways to encourage children and students through curiosity • The power of journaling to document what did work • A sneak peek into our new 365-day mindfulness activity calendar

In this episode of the show, Jim Ellermeyer his conversation with his friend Tara V, who has successfully achieved long-term recovery from addiction. Tara shares her experience entering the 12 step program and that decision. She discusses starting her Podcast, Keep Coming Back to share speakers and how she helps living the 12 step process for herself and others.  www.keepcomingback.net brings the AA Speaker to the mic and records their story of recovery, creating “Speaker Tapes” for this generation. KeepComingBack.net is 12-step work, not for profit or recognition. Are you finding benefit from this show? We appreciate any support with our Patreon page! Pledge as little as $1 a month for extra clips, behind the scenes and more at www.patreon.com/fishingwithoutbait ! Subscribe to our Podcast on iTunes, Stitcher, Google Music, TuneIn or look for it on your favorite Podcatcher!

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer and co-host Mike explore the difference between spirituality and organized religion and what it truly means to nurture your spirit. Together, they revisit the timeless teachings of Jesus, focusing on his central message of love, compassion, and self-discovery — a message that’s often been overshadowed by societal control, rigid traditions, and centuries of interpretation. We’ll discuss: • Why spirituality is about personal connection rather than institutional rules. • The two greatest commandments Jesus taught and why they free us from fear. • Insights from alternative gospels like Thomas and Mary Magdalene that emphasize the divine spark within. • How to embrace mindfulness, self-validation, and inner freedom in your daily life. Jim challenges us to see the divine within ourselves and others, and to choose kindness, forgiveness, and mindful living as a way of nurturing that spark.

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, Jim Ellermeyer and producer Mike explore the “Three Big C’s” that drain joy and positivity from our lives: comparing, criticizing, and complaining. We discuss how these habits act like emotional vampires, sucking the energy from every room, and why avoiding them leads to a more mindful, fulfilling life. Through stories of sports legends like John Wooden, reflections on culture, and lessons from film, Jim offers practical insights on how to plant flowers instead of weeds in your daily moments. Life isn’t measured in years—it’s measured in the choices we make right now. Join us as we reflect on how to let go of negativity, embrace kindness, and live each moment well.

Join host Jim Ellermeyer, behavioral health therapist, for a powerful Fishing Without Bait conversation on living with integrity, building internal validation, and focusing on solutions rather than problems—even in the face of political division and global conflict. Jim shares the five core attributes that shape a grounded life: knowing right from wrong, having a moral compass, being dependable, being honest, and treating others with courtesy and respect. Drawing from his deep roots in the 12-step recovery world, Jim explains why magnifying problems only fuels negativity, and how “studied indifference” and critical thinking can help us see past misinformation in today’s polarized media environment. He and co-host Mike discuss the need for unity, the dangers of outside forces driving division, and the importance of leaders who act with integrity. Jim also offers a heartfelt reflection on the Israel–Gaza conflict, expressing support for Israel’s right to exist while condemning the killing of innocents and calli

Fishing Without Bait—hosted by Jim Ellermeyer—continues our conversation (Part 3) with TEDx speaker and best‑selling author Nick Jonsson (Executive Loneliness). We unpack executive mental health, burnout, and recovery as Nick describes moving from “I have to” to “I choose,” owning financial insecurities, confronting toxic masculinity, and evolving from command‑and‑control leadership to an identity grounded in values rather than titles or status. Jim and Nick explore 12‑step spirituality versus religion, daily prayer in sobriety, and how service informed Nick’s men’s community Limitless after supporting Singapore’s SOS Samaritans—offering a safe space that can interrupt isolation and suicide risk. Nick also shares professional growth—studying psychotherapy and counseling at the School of Positive Psychology and leading leadership workshops in the Maldives—plus practical coaching for busy executives with flexible scheduling and a whole‑life Wheel of Life approach.  His book Executive Loneliness is available on

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer welcomes Nick Jonsson, TEDx speaker and best-selling author of Executive Loneliness (

In this insightful episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer welcomes TEDx speaker and best-selling author Nick Jonsson to share his powerful story of recovery, resilience, and reconnection. From climbing the corporate ladder to confronting executive loneliness, Nick discusses his journey through burnout, addiction, and rebuilding a life grounded in purpose and vulnerability. He opens up about the difference between joy and pleasure, the power of community, and how practicing “vulnerability muscles” can transform relationships. Nick also explores how 12-step recovery programs, active listening, and surrendering ego led him to true connection and fulfillment. Whether you’re battling burnout, seeking meaning beyond success, or curious about recovery journeys, this episode offers relatable and actionable insight for growth.

In this transformative episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer welcomes mindfulness-based creative educator, breathwork guide, and trauma-informed life coach Rubina Chadha, founder of Inner Design. Together, they explore the true meaning of “abracadabra” — “I create what I speak” — diving deep into the power of language, energy, and intention. Rubina shares insights into helping clients manage anxiety, stress, and trauma by tuning into their breath, embracing creative practices, and understanding their unique human design. With warmth and wisdom, she reveals how slowing down, practicing daily rituals, and engaging in mindful expression can help rewire our minds and reset our inner world. From active meditation to expressive doodling, Rubina emphasizes that everyone’s healing journey is personal and nonlinear. Whether you’re struggling with inner chaos or simply seeking clarity, this episode offers tangible tools for transformation and empowerment. Discover more mindful content and past episodes a

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer continues his deep and insightful conversation with Rubina Chadha — a mindfulness-based creative educator, breathwork guide, and trauma-informed life coach, and founder of Inner Design. Together, they explore the power of observation and mindful creativity as tools for healing and self-discovery. Rubina shares how art and mindful looking can help individuals slow down, break from judgment, and reconnect with their inner creativity—even in the most mundane parts of life. The discussion touches on the barriers that block creative flow, including depression and anxiety, and how creative practices can be both the first casualty of stress and a path to recovery. Rubina and Jim dive into what it means to live authentically and develop one’s own “singleness of purpose.” Listeners are invited to consider how lived experience, not just knowledge, shapes wisdom—and how mindful living can be an invitation, not a sales pitch, to transformation.

In this insightful episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer welcomes Rubina Chadha—mindfulness-based creative educator, trauma-informed life coach, breathwork guide, and founder of Inner Design. Together, they explore how breath, presence, and creativity intersect to support healing and personal transformation. Rubina shares her journey from corporate burnout to becoming a guide for those seeking deeper alignment and nervous system healing. The conversation delves into the science of trauma, the importance of embodiment, and the power of somatic practices such as breathwork, nervous system mapping, and intuitive movement. Listeners will learn how to create space for self-inquiry, reconnect with their truth, and cultivate emotional resilience. Rubina offers powerful insights on how mindful awareness and intentional design can shift your life from survival mode to purpose-driven living. Whether you’re beginning your healing path or deepening your mindfulness practice, this episode provides practical

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer welcomes back Tara from KeepComingBack.net to explore recovery, emotional intelligence, and mindful living through the lens of 12-step wisdom. Tara reflects on applying principles from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous in her everyday life—from promptly making amends at work to letting go of resentment and shame. Together, Jim and Tara discuss the power of moving from problem to solution, recognizing blind spots, and breaking free from perfectionism. Tara opens up about her new sponsor, her personal goals around family, health, and financial peace, and how self-care—even a simple manicure—can support healing. This conversation is a heartfelt reminder of the value of progress over perfection and being present with purpose. For more mindful conversations, visit www.FishingWithoutBait.com.

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer continues a heartfelt and honest conversation with Tara from KeepComingBack.net. Together, they explore the power of presence, the importance of slowing down, and the emotional clarity that comes from mindfulness and spiritual grounding—especially during life’s busiest seasons. Tara opens up about navigating grief, burnout, and the juggling act of parenting, marriage, and recovery. She shares how a return to foundational 12-step principles helped her reset through tools like a personal daily checklist and intentional family connection. The episode touches on avoiding judgment, sharing experiences over advice, and embracing independence in parenting. It’s an insightful discussion about staying rooted in what truly matters: relationships, spiritual growth, and being present for life’s small, joyful moments. Find more at www.FishingWithoutBait.com and subscribe for mindful, purposeful living without definitive expectations.

In this heartfelt episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer reconnects with recurring guest Tara from KeepComingBack.net, a podcast archiving speaker meetings focused on experience, strength, and hope in 12-step recovery. Tara shares the deeply personal journey of losing her longtime sponsor to terminal illness and how that grief pushed her to seek new guidance and restart her spiritual program. She discusses her evolving relationship with surrender, the humility of beginning the 12 steps anew, and the profound insights gained from The Grief Recovery Handbook. The conversation touches on motherhood, emotional vulnerability, and the power of gratitude amid suffering. Whether you’re in recovery or navigating life’s dark hallways, Tara’s story offers inspiration, raw honesty, and practical wisdom.