Fishing Without Bait

Join host Jim Ellermeyer in a fascinating conversation with illustrator David Pohl on this episode of Fishing Without Bait. David shares his incredible journey as a creative professional, from his early days working on Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood to building a successful freelance illustration career. He reflects on his time with Fred Rogers, offering behind-the-scenes stories about the show’s impact and the warmth of its legendary host. David also opens up about the struggles and triumphs of being an artist, including navigating uncertainty, taking calculated risks, and maintaining self-belief through challenges. He discusses how art serves as his meditation, creative outlet, and source of resilience. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or simply a fan of mindful living, this episode provides inspiring insights into passion, perseverance, and finding purpose in your craft.

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer sits down with larger-than-life pro wrestler “King Kong Husk” The Beastman to explore his transformative journey in the wrestling business. From his early days struggling to find a persona to embracing his identity as The Beastman, he shares how he built a brand, navigated the independent wrestling scene, and learned the difference between being one of the boys and making money in wrestling. Beastman opens up about his experiences wrestling in Japan, Canada, and Australia, working with legends like Madman Pondo and Necro Butcher, and how taking risks—including stepping into the world of deathmatch wrestling—changed his career. He discusses the realities of booking himself, selling merch, and staying relevant in an ever-evolving industry. Plus, hear his thoughts on mentoring young wrestlers, the value of referees, and his plans beyond wrestling. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, self-branding, and the mindset it takes to thrive

In this heartfelt episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer sits down with professional wrestler “King Kong Husk” The Beastman for an introspective conversation about his life inside and outside the ring. From his early days of breaking into the wrestling business—sometimes the hard way—to his journey of self-discovery, Beastman opens up about the struggles, lessons, and redemption he found along the way. He discusses the importance of closure in past relationships, his shift in priorities from wrestling-first to family-first, and the impact of mindfulness and personal growth on his career. Beastman also shares wild stories from the independent wrestling scene, his experiences training in unconventional settings, and the highs and lows of navigating the industry. With candid reflections on making amends, overcoming past mistakes, and finding balance between passion and personal life, this episode offers a raw and honest look into the mind of a wrestler who’s fought for everything he has. Tune in fo

In this powerful episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer sits down with pro wrestler "King Kong Husk" The Beastman to discuss his incredible journey through life and wrestling. Beastman shares how he has traveled the world—from Japan to Canada, with upcoming stops in Australia and Scotland—pursuing his passion for professional wrestling while navigating personal transformation. The conversation takes a heartfelt turn as Beastman opens up about his love story, meeting his wife in an unexpected place, and the challenges of balancing relationships with his wrestling career. He also reflects on the risks he’s taken, from moving cities for love to sacrificing stability for his wrestling dreams. His candid storytelling offers insights into resilience, personal growth, and learning to embrace change. Join us as we dive deep into Beastman’s experiences, lessons from heartbreak, and how he found true happiness inside and outside the ring.

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. He shares powerful insights about growing up without a father, the struggles of being raised by a hardworking single mother, and the emotional scars left by domestic violence. Wes discusses how wrestling became his escape, his passion for collecting wrestling memorabilia, and the importance of embracing solitude. Beyond the chaos of the squared circle, Wes also reveals his life outside wrestling—his day job as a driver and trainer, his love for Miami Dolphins football, and his deep appreciation for historical sites on wrestling road trips. This episode is a must-listen for wrestling fans and anyone navigating personal challenges. Are you fin

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. Jim and Mike delve into the book’s structured approach, which encourages intentional reflection through morning and evening thoughts, self-validation exercises, and kindness-based actions. They explore profound concepts such as self-worth, overcoming negative self-perceptions, and the psychology of the shadow self, drawing from Carl Jung’s theories. Whether you’re looking for a fresh way to incorporate mindfulness into your daily life or seeking a meaningful self-care practice, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable takeaways. Plus, find out how to get your own copy of this transformative book and start your journey today.

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. Jim and Mike discuss the concept of radical acceptance, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging difficulties without allowing fear to take control. They tackle doomscrolling, the cycle of consuming negative news, and offer mindfulness techniques to regain focus and control over one’s mental well-being. Through engaging storytelling and real-world examples, they provide actionable steps for coping with job loss, financial stress, and emotional burnout. This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world. Tune in for practical wisdom, mindfulness exe

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. Chris also provides insights into his work on VoxPopcast, a unique podcast blending academic analysis with pop culture topics like movies, toys, and video games. The conversation reflects on finding balance, embracing meaningful relationships, and creating a life you don’t need to escape from. Tune in for practical wisdom on cultivating mindfulness, finding joy in daily life, and pursuing passions that truly matter. Find out more abo

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! Find out more about Chris Maverick and listen to the VoxPopCast at www.voxpopcast.comAre 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 !

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. The conversation takes a deep dive into the impact of narrative, both in the ring and in digital media, and how it shapes our understanding of identity and escapism. They also discuss the filtered realities of social media, drawing parallels between online personas and wrestling characters, and the importance of mindfulness in navigating our everyday struggles. Discover how professional wrestling connects to mindfulness, day-to-day life, and even the simple arguments we all face, like too

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. Key topics include the relevance of modern cultural studies in understanding traditional English literature, the value of making connections between pop culture and classical texts, and Maverick’s unique path to academia. The discussion also touches on the power of great teaching to inspire, the role of performance in education, and the importance of creating impactful and relatable messages for younger generations. This episode is a must-listen for those interested in cultural studies, education, or finding purpose through unconventional paths. Tune in for a deep

Happy New Year from the Fishing Without Bait Podcast!

Celebrate the season with the Fishing Without Bait Podcast!

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. Learn how to step back, set healthy boundaries, and avoid the common pitfalls of holiday stress. Whether you struggle with the pressures of perfection, overwhelming obligations, or seasonal emotions, this conversation provides thoughtful insights to help you create a more joyful and peaceful holiday experience. 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 !

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. Bronwyn also explores managing triggers, cultivating compassionate listening, and the necessity of boundaries for emotional well-being. She recounts her personal journey overcoming depression and insomnia, attributing her recovery to addressing unresolved emotions and setting firm boundaries. Additionally, she highlights her evolution from a career in nutrition to psychotherapy, emphasizing the interconnectedness of diet, self-worth, and mental health.Are you finding benefit from this show?  We appr

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. Discover practical insights into healing relationships with oneself, building boundaries, and the transformative power of self-attunement. From Bronwyn’s unique integration exercises to her philosophy on nutrition and self-nurture, this episode offers a holistic approach to emotional well-being. Whether you’re exploring mindfulness, battling shame, or striving for healthier relationships, this episode provides a compassionate and actionable guide. Tune in for a candid, transformative discussion that could change the way you unde

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. Missy also reflects on managing online negativity as a social media professional, sharing practical strategies for fostering civil discussions. The episode concludes with advice for maintaining harmony during family gatherings and finding ways to avoid unnecessary conflicts. As always, Jim encourages listeners to embrace mindfulness, self-compassion, and kindness in their daily lives. Discover practical too

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. Tune in for a conversation that inspires growth and mutual respect.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 Apple Podcasts, TuneIn, Youtub

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. Are you finding benefit from t

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.Are you finding benefit from this show?  We appreciate