Jim Ellermeyer

The 3 Big C’s That Drain Your Happiness (And How to Avoid Them!) | Episode 480

August 19th, 2025  |  11 mins 20 secs

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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.

Finding Your Moral Compass: Mindfulness, Recovery & Navigating a Divided World | Episode 479

August 12th, 2025  |  29 mins 13 secs

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.

Redefining Success: Vulnerability, Sobriety & the Executive Mindset with Nick Jonsson | Episode 478

August 5th, 2025  |  17 mins 6 secs

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.

Executive Loneliness: Breaking the Silence with Nick Jonsson | Episode 477

July 29th, 2025  |  14 mins 45 secs

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer welcomes Nick Jonsson, TEDx speaker and best-selling author of Executive Loneliness (🌐 www.nickjonsson.com). Together, they dive deep into the hidden struggles of high-achieving professionals, particularly the silent epidemic of executive isolation and burnout.

From Rock Bottom to Rising Strong: Nick Jonsson on Recovery and Reconnection | Episode 476

July 22nd, 2025  |  17 mins 49 secs

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.

Abracadabra and the Power of Words: Mindful Living Starts Here with Rubina Chadha | Episode 475

July 15th, 2025  |  18 mins 18 secs

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.

Episode 474

July 8th, 2025  |  14 mins 35 secs

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.

Inner Design: Creating a Life of Mindful Awareness with Rubina Chadha | Episode 743

July 1st, 2025  |  19 mins 41 secs

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.

Big Book, Bigger Life: Recovery Lessons with Tara | Episode 472

June 24th, 2025  |  17 mins 39 secs

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.

How a Checklist and a Higher Power Changed Everything with Tara | Episode 471

June 16th, 2025  |  17 mins 29 secs

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.

Grief, Growth, and the Gift of Surrender: Tara’s 12-Step Awakening | Episode 470

June 10th, 2025  |  20 mins 30 secs

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.

Digging Up Roots, Planting New Ones: Genealogy, Recovery & Redemption | Episode 469

June 3rd, 2025  |  20 mins 59 secs

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, host and behavioral therapist Jim Ellermeyer is joined by producer Mike Sorg for a heartfelt conversation about genealogy, family legacy, and the values we inherit—or choose to build ourselves. Jim reflects on his roots in Kittanning, Pennsylvania, sharing powerful stories from his family’s history of generosity, resilience, and recovery—including their struggles with alcoholism and mental health.

No Regrets: A Mother’s Love and a Life Reclaimed | Episode 468

May 27th, 2025  |  17 mins

In this heartfelt Mother’s Day-themed episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer finds himself on the other side of the mic as returning guest Missy Sorg interviews him about his journey, personal transformation, and the unwavering love and influence of his mother. Jim shares touching memories, from childhood board games to life-changing milestones like earning his master’s degree and achieving sobriety. The discussion explores themes of recovery, trust, and what it means to form meaningful, lasting connections. They reflect on the illusion of separateness, the importance of being present, and the power of 3 a.m. friendships. Drawing on 12-step philosophy, spirituality, and lived experience, Jim and Missy offer insights on living a life of honesty, gratitude, and mindfulness. This episode is a moving tribute to those who support us unconditionally and a reminder to cherish and nurture the relationships that truly matter.

No More Tears Left: Facing the Fear, Finding the Light | Episode 467

May 20th, 2025  |  19 mins 11 secs

In this deeply personal and revealing episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer shares his own journey through addiction, recovery, and healing in a role-reversing conversation with Missy Sorg. Jim reflects on the powerful moment that pushed him to seek help, his relationship with his mother and how addiction impacted his family, and the emotional breakthrough that came through connection, prayer, and community. He speaks candidly about hitting rock bottom, relapsing, and finding new life through the 12-step program. Through touching stories—including burying his first sobriety chip with his mother—Jim emphasizes the strength of living amends, emotional growth, and the ongoing nature of recovery. This episode is a moving tribute to resilience, honesty, and the quiet, enduring power of support systems and self-awareness.

Raised by Love, Forged by Loss: Jim Ellermeyer’s Journey of Recovery | Episode 466

May 13th, 2025  |  15 mins 57 secs

In this special episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer switches seats with frequent collaborator Missy Sorg, who takes over the interviewer’s role. With her thoughtful questions, Missy dives into Jim’s personal journey—from childhood memories in 1950s America and family tragedies to his struggles with addiction and the unwavering support of his mother. Jim shares poignant stories about being raised by a strong, resilient woman, and how her values of unconditional love, perseverance, and acceptance shaped his path toward recovery and becoming a behavioral health therapist. This candid conversation reveals the emotional depth behind Jim’s passion for mindfulness and self-reinvention, offering powerful insights into generational trauma, grief, and healing. Tune in to hear how personal history and unconditional love can lay the foundation for meaningful transformation.

Classic Fishing Without Bait 106: Your Declaration of Independence

May 6th, 2025  |  11 mins 1 sec

In this classic episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer and producer Mike explore the transformative concept of writing your own Declaration of Independence. Through mindful reflection, they invite listeners to identify the emotional “rocks” weighing them down—whether fear, addiction, or unhealthy relationships—and challenge them to break free. Jim shares personal insights inspired by historical journeys to Boston and Philadelphia, connecting revolutionary courage to modern self-liberation. With tools like labeling, full-impact mindfulness, and self-commitment, this episode encourages listeners to not only envision freedom but to sign their name to it—just as John Hancock did. Start your journey to personal independence today. Find more episodes and resources at www.FishingWithoutBait.com.