Fishing Without Bait

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, we welcome back our imaginative, energetic returning guest Santina Grace for Part 2 of a deeply insightful conversation about mindfulness, self-awareness, grounding practices, and the inner battles so many of us face every day. Together, Santina and Jim dive into themes of anchoring thoughts, depersonalization, perspective shifts, emotional resilience, and reclaiming personal agency.  Santina shares a powerful example of using sensory-based anchors—in this case, strawberry essential oil—to help a client overcome cravings by reconnecting with a memory tied to freedom, comfort, and identity. The discussion expands into how grounding techniques and sensory awareness can support those dealing with derealization or feeling out of place in their own lives. Jim and Santina also explore how filtered media realities and comparison culture distort our self-worth, leading many to believe they don’t belong. They remind us that turmoil has always existed in every era, and the real

In Episode 494 of Fishing Without Bait, we welcome back returning guest and clairvoyant medium Santina Grace for the first part of a warm, insightful, and deeply grounding conversation on reconnecting with joy, presence, and peace in today’s chaotic world. Jim and Santina explore some of the most important emotional and spiritual challenges of our time, including: • Finding joy in a world that feels overstimulated and overwhelming • The myth of productivity and how tying your value to output diminishes your sense of self • How fear fuels anxiety, and why anxiety can only live in the future—not the present moment • Honoring the small comforts we take for granted—warmth, food, connection, breath • How to protect your energy from negative media and emotional overload • The difference between pleasure and true joy • How children naturally process emotion with immediacy, and why adults lose that instinct • Using memories and sensory anchors to return to peace during difficult times

In Episode 493 of Fishing Without Bait, we continue our powerful two-part conversation on the lifelong impact of religiously reinforced guilt, shame, and fear. Building on the foundation set in Episode 492, Jim Ellermeyer and host Mike Sorg peel back the layers of how religious structures shape personal identity, relationships, sexuality, and self-worth. This episode dives deep into how early conditioning around sin, purity, and punishment affects the human psyche for decades — especially for women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and anyone raised in shame-based environments. We explore how these rigid systems influence romantic relationships, create lifelong anxiety, damage self-esteem, and push people into cycles of self-criticism and fear of judgment. Jim shares personal stories from his upbringing, his time teaching within the Church, and the pivotal moment he challenged the doctrine of baptism and walked away. Together, he and Mike examine how religious authority has historically been used to suppress autonomy, sil

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, Jim Ellermeyer guides listeners through one of the most transformative practices in mindfulness and recovery: letting go. Whether it’s old fears, expectations, resentments, or the emotional weight we’ve carried for years, Jim explains how release is not weakness—it’s liberation. Through grounded insight, 12-step philosophy, and real-world examples, Jim explores: • Why letting go feels so difficult • How control and fear keep us stuck • The connection between surrender and mindfulness • How to recognize what you’re still carrying • Practical ways to soften your grip and reclaim peace This episode invites you to step out of old patterns and into a more open, honest, intentional life. If you’re ready to grow, breathe, and move forward—this conversation is for you.

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, counselor and mindfulness guide Jim Ellermeyer takes listeners on a thoughtful and practical journey into the world of inherent truths—the deep personal values and qualities that define who we really are beneath expectations, judgment, and fear. Jim opens the conversation by reminding us that self-discovery isn’t about finding a ready-made identity—it’s about creating ourselves with honesty, open-mindedness, and a willingness to try. He introduces the idea that inherent truths are fundamental aspects of identity that aren’t shaped by outside forces. These truths include qualities like empathy, honesty, dependability, intelligence, and the capacity to learn and love. Through stories, affirmations, and compassionate guidance, Jim breaks down the barriers that commonly derail personal growth: societal pressure, family expectations, fear of judgment, and the tendency to discount our own worth. He encourages listeners to practice “I am confident…” statements to reinforce th

Welcome back, friends, to Fishing Without Bait: A Lifetime Without Definitive Expectations. In Episode 490, Jim Ellermeyer and producer Mike Sorg explore what leadership truly means through the lens of Jesus of Nazareth. From the radical humility and servant leadership he modeled 2,000 years ago to his timeless call for justice and compassion, Jim examines how these teachings apply to the world’s political and social climate today. This thoughtful conversation covers: • How Jesus’s example challenges modern power and ego • The moral responsibility of leaders to serve everyone—not just their supporters • Why integrity, honesty, and empathy are essential in times of division • The enduring wisdom of “Blessed are the peacemakers” and “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” Jim also reflects on the story of the Good Samaritan and closes with a reminder that hope—and helping others—remains our greatest prescription.

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, Jim Ellermeyer and producer Mike Sorg wade into some deep—and dangerous—waters. Together, they explore how stochastic rhetoric and obfuscation have become the most powerful tools in modern political communication. What do those words mean? In short, they describe how leaders and media use vague, coded, or confusing language to manipulate emotions, create division, and dodge accountability. From “dog whistles” to “plausible deniability,” Jim explains how these tactics quietly shape behavior and beliefs—without ever saying things outright. But this episode isn’t just about politics; it’s about mindfulness in the face of manipulation. Jim and Mike offer practical ways to recognize these tricks, question what we’re told, and bring compassion back into our conversations. “If you have a choice between being right and being kind, choose kind—and you’re going to be right every time.” In a time of noise and division, Fishing Without Bait invites listeners to slow down, think cr

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 (