web01.fireside.fm Sun, 12 Apr 2026 09:43:49 -0500 Fireside (https://fireside.fm) Fishing Without Bait: A Full Impact Mindfulness Podcast - Episodes Tagged with “Identity” https://fishingwithoutbait.fireside.fm/tags/identity Tue, 03 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0500 A mindful exercise. A look at ourselves. We recommend rest and relaxation. One way you can do this is to take up fishing. And for a truly mindful experience, try fishing without bait. en-us episodic It's about living a life without definitive expectations and learning to fish without bait. Humility Health and Wellness LLC. A mindful exercise. A look at ourselves. We recommend rest and relaxation. One way you can do this is to take up fishing. And for a truly mindful experience, try fishing without bait. no mindfulness, addiction, recovery, pittsburgh, alcoholism, alcoholics anonymous Humility Health and Wellness LLC. fishingwithoutbait@sorgatronmedia.com Knowing Which Weeds to Pull with Zeke Mercer | Episode 505 https://fishingwithoutbait.fireside.fm/556 8ece4217-2a6f-46e5-811a-0561ead0837c Tue, 03 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0500 Humility Health and Wellness LLC. full Humility Health and Wellness LLC. In Part 4 of our conversation with Zeke Mercer, we explore growth, identity, and recognizing when something no longer serves you. Zeke reflects on stepping back from wrestling, the role of critical thinking, and the balance between individuality and belonging. A thoughtful discussion on change, awareness, and self-respect. 16:28 no Part 4 of our conversation with Zeke Mercer dives deep into personal evolution, self-awareness, and the courage to reassess life’s direction. Zeke candidly discusses recognizing when wrestling — something she deeply loves — has become “one of the weeds,” using the metaphor of “planting flowers and pulling weeds” to frame growth and change. Jim and Zeke explore how “things work until they don’t,” the nature of ignorance (both willful and systemic), and the importance of developing critical thinking skills. The conversation expands into individuality versus group identity, referencing themes echoed in 1984 and Fahrenheit 451, and how society often claims uniqueness while gravitating toward conformity. The episode closes with a powerful message from Zeke about being yourself, questioning your choices, and understanding that nothing is permanent. This discussion is about reflection, transitions, and knowing which weeds to pull in your own life. Calls to Action: Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast player. Support us on Patreon for ad-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/c/fishingwithoutbait Pick up our book: Learn to Fish Without Bait: A 365-Day Mindfulness Journal and Adult Coloring Book https://www.lulu.com/shop/james-ellermeyer-lpc-ma-ncc-lpc/learn-to-fish-without-bait/paperback/product-6n9rd8.html?page=1&pageSize=4 Zeke Mercer, mindfulness, self awareness, personal growth, life transitions, identity, critical thinking, recovery, wellness, change, podcast, Sorgatron Media Part 4 of our conversation with Zeke Mercer dives deep into personal evolution, self-awareness, and the courage to reassess life’s direction. Zeke candidly discusses recognizing when wrestling — something she deeply loves — has become “one of the weeds,” using the metaphor of “planting flowers and pulling weeds” to frame growth and change.

Jim and Zeke explore how “things work until they don’t,” the nature of ignorance (both willful and systemic), and the importance of developing critical thinking skills. The conversation expands into individuality versus group identity, referencing themes echoed in 1984 and Fahrenheit 451, and how society often claims uniqueness while gravitating toward conformity.

The episode closes with a powerful message from Zeke about being yourself, questioning your choices, and understanding that nothing is permanent. This discussion is about reflection, transitions, and knowing which weeds to pull in your own life.

Calls to Action:
Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast player.
Support us on Patreon for ad-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/c/fishingwithoutbait
Pick up our book: Learn to Fish Without Bait: A 365-Day Mindfulness Journal and Adult Coloring Book
https://www.lulu.com/shop/james-ellermeyer-lpc-ma-ncc-lpc/learn-to-fish-without-bait/paperback/product-6n9rd8.html?page=1&pageSize=4

]]> Part 4 of our conversation with Zeke Mercer dives deep into personal evolution, self-awareness, and the courage to reassess life’s direction. Zeke candidly discusses recognizing when wrestling — something she deeply loves — has become “one of the weeds,” using the metaphor of “planting flowers and pulling weeds” to frame growth and change.

Jim and Zeke explore how “things work until they don’t,” the nature of ignorance (both willful and systemic), and the importance of developing critical thinking skills. The conversation expands into individuality versus group identity, referencing themes echoed in 1984 and Fahrenheit 451, and how society often claims uniqueness while gravitating toward conformity.

The episode closes with a powerful message from Zeke about being yourself, questioning your choices, and understanding that nothing is permanent. This discussion is about reflection, transitions, and knowing which weeds to pull in your own life.

Calls to Action:
Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast player.
Support us on Patreon for ad-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/c/fishingwithoutbait
Pick up our book: Learn to Fish Without Bait: A 365-Day Mindfulness Journal and Adult Coloring Book
https://www.lulu.com/shop/james-ellermeyer-lpc-ma-ncc-lpc/learn-to-fish-without-bait/paperback/product-6n9rd8.html?page=1&pageSize=4

]]> Zeke Mercer on Identity, Ego & Respect | Episode 504 https://fishingwithoutbait.fireside.fm/555 0f109ecf-7e9a-4fc0-a14e-eef08b63bade Tue, 24 Feb 2026 13:00:00 -0500 Humility Health and Wellness LLC. full Humility Health and Wellness LLC. Part 3 of our conversation with Zeke Mercer explores bias, identity, and how bitterness, ego, and respect shape both wrestling and life. Zeke shares powerful reflections on authenticity, personal growth, and navigating judgment. A thoughtful discussion on mindfulness, self-awareness, and resilience. 19:01 no In Part 3 of our conversation with Zeke Mercer, we dive deeper into themes of identity, perception, and personal growth. Zeke discusses healthcare bias, longstanding societal beliefs, and how misinformation shapes real-world experiences. The conversation explores the dangers of bitterness and resentment, the balance between ego and skill, and the importance of cultivating environments where people can truly grow. Drawing parallels between wrestling and life, Zeke shares insights on authenticity, competence, and self-respect. This episode is a reflective and honest exploration of mindfulness, awareness, and the courage to live truthfully. 👉 Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast player 👉 Support us on Patreon for ad-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/c/fishingwithoutbait 👉 Pick up our book: Learn to Fish Without Bait: A 365-Day Mindfulness Journal and Adult Coloring Book https://www.lulu.com/shop/james-ellermeyer-lpc-ma-ncc-lpc/learn-to-fish-without-bait/paperback/product-6n9rd8.html?page=1&pageSize=4 Zeke Mercer, Fishing Without Bait, Fishing Without Bait 504, mindfulness, recovery, wellness, mental health, ego, identity, bias, personal growth, authenticity, self awareness, resilience, wrestling and life In Part 3 of our conversation with Zeke Mercer, we dive deeper into themes of identity, perception, and personal growth. Zeke discusses healthcare bias, longstanding societal beliefs, and how misinformation shapes real-world experiences.

The conversation explores the dangers of bitterness and resentment, the balance between ego and skill, and the importance of cultivating environments where people can truly grow. Drawing parallels between wrestling and life, Zeke shares insights on authenticity, competence, and self-respect.

This episode is a reflective and honest exploration of mindfulness, awareness, and the courage to live truthfully.

👉 Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast player
👉 Support us on Patreon for ad-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/c/fishingwithoutbait
👉 Pick up our book: Learn to Fish Without Bait: A 365-Day Mindfulness Journal and Adult Coloring Book
https://www.lulu.com/shop/james-ellermeyer-lpc-ma-ncc-lpc/learn-to-fish-without-bait/paperback/product-6n9rd8.html?page=1&pageSize=4

]]> In Part 3 of our conversation with Zeke Mercer, we dive deeper into themes of identity, perception, and personal growth. Zeke discusses healthcare bias, longstanding societal beliefs, and how misinformation shapes real-world experiences.

The conversation explores the dangers of bitterness and resentment, the balance between ego and skill, and the importance of cultivating environments where people can truly grow. Drawing parallels between wrestling and life, Zeke shares insights on authenticity, competence, and self-respect.

This episode is a reflective and honest exploration of mindfulness, awareness, and the courage to live truthfully.

👉 Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast player
👉 Support us on Patreon for ad-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/c/fishingwithoutbait
👉 Pick up our book: Learn to Fish Without Bait: A 365-Day Mindfulness Journal and Adult Coloring Book
https://www.lulu.com/shop/james-ellermeyer-lpc-ma-ncc-lpc/learn-to-fish-without-bait/paperback/product-6n9rd8.html?page=1&pageSize=4

]]> Zeke Mercer: Sacrifice, Identity & Self-Discovery | Episode 503 https://fishingwithoutbait.fireside.fm/554 87fa8238-e3d6-499d-93c0-260fbb18bf26 Tue, 17 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0500 Humility Health and Wellness LLC. full Humility Health and Wellness LLC. In Part 2 of our conversation, Zeke Mercer reflects on sacrifice, expectations, and the emotional realities of chasing dreams. She shares deeply personal insights about identity, integrity, and her transition journey. A thoughtful discussion on self-worth, resilience, and living authentically. 22:59 no Part 2 of our conversation with Zeke Mercer dives deeper into the realities behind ambition, sacrifice, and self-worth. Zeke speaks candidly about guiding younger wrestlers, confronting the harsh truth that “wrestling doesn’t owe you a thing,” and the emotional crossroads between acceptance and bitterness. The conversation expands into integrity, ethical living, and how actions reveal character more than words ever can. Zeke also opens up about her personal evolution, sharing reflections on transitioning, self-discovery, and navigating a world that isn’t always accepting. This episode is a powerful exploration of identity, resilience, and choosing authenticity in the face of judgment. Calls to Action: Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast player. Support us on Patreon for ad-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/c/fishingwithoutbait Pick up our book: Learn to Fish Without Bait https://www.lulu.com/shop/james-ellermeyer-lpc-ma-ncc-lpc/learn-to-fish-without-bait/paperback/product-6n9rd8.html?page=1&pageSize=4 Fishing Without Bait, Fishing Without Bait Podcast, FWB503, Zeke Mercer, Mindfulness, Recovery, Mental Wellness, Self Discovery, Personal Growth, Integrity, Sacrifice, Expectations, Identity, Transition, Authenticity, Ethical Living, Resilience, Self Worth, Mental Health Part 2 of our conversation with Zeke Mercer dives deeper into the realities behind ambition, sacrifice, and self-worth. Zeke speaks candidly about guiding younger wrestlers, confronting the harsh truth that “wrestling doesn’t owe you a thing,” and the emotional crossroads between acceptance and bitterness.

The conversation expands into integrity, ethical living, and how actions reveal character more than words ever can. Zeke also opens up about her personal evolution, sharing reflections on transitioning, self-discovery, and navigating a world that isn’t always accepting.

This episode is a powerful exploration of identity, resilience, and choosing authenticity in the face of judgment.

Calls to Action:
Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast player.
Support us on Patreon for ad-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/c/fishingwithoutbait

Pick up our book: Learn to Fish Without Bait
https://www.lulu.com/shop/james-ellermeyer-lpc-ma-ncc-lpc/learn-to-fish-without-bait/paperback/product-6n9rd8.html?page=1&pageSize=4

]]> Part 2 of our conversation with Zeke Mercer dives deeper into the realities behind ambition, sacrifice, and self-worth. Zeke speaks candidly about guiding younger wrestlers, confronting the harsh truth that “wrestling doesn’t owe you a thing,” and the emotional crossroads between acceptance and bitterness.

The conversation expands into integrity, ethical living, and how actions reveal character more than words ever can. Zeke also opens up about her personal evolution, sharing reflections on transitioning, self-discovery, and navigating a world that isn’t always accepting.

This episode is a powerful exploration of identity, resilience, and choosing authenticity in the face of judgment.

Calls to Action:
Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast player.
Support us on Patreon for ad-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/c/fishingwithoutbait

Pick up our book: Learn to Fish Without Bait
https://www.lulu.com/shop/james-ellermeyer-lpc-ma-ncc-lpc/learn-to-fish-without-bait/paperback/product-6n9rd8.html?page=1&pageSize=4

]]> From the Ring to the Classroom: Chris Maverick on Wrestling, Storytelling, and Mindfulness | Episode 452 https://fishingwithoutbait.fireside.fm/497 8553f991-7d91-4e89-a253-9f49deb791e3 Tue, 14 Jan 2025 13:00:00 -0500 Humility Health and Wellness LLC. full Humility Health and Wellness LLC. 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. 19:21 no 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 toothpaste caps! This episode is packed with insights into human behavior, storytelling, and self-reflection. 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 ! professional wrestling, Chris Maverick, digital narrative, mindfulness, storytelling, social media, escapism, identity, pro wrestling personas, Jim Ellermeyer 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 toothpaste caps! This episode is packed with insights into human behavior, storytelling, and self-reflection.

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 toothpaste caps! This episode is packed with insights into human behavior, storytelling, and self-reflection.

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 !

]]> Planting Seeds of Change with Mike Ogelsbee | Episode 415 https://fishingwithoutbait.fireside.fm/456 39630613-9218-482c-8c70-1c610853168c Tue, 02 Apr 2024 08:00:00 -0400 Humility Health and Wellness LLC. full Humility Health and Wellness LLC. In this thought-provoking episode of "Fishing Without Bait," host Jim Ellermeyer welcomes guest Mike Oglesbee for a deep dive into personal transformation, the significance of setting boundaries, and the liberating power of choice. Oglesbee shares his profound journey of overcoming family estrangement and the challenges of growing up in a toxic environment, highlighting the pivotal decision to stand up for himself and the ensuing path to self-discovery. This episode sheds light on the destructive nature of imposed identities and societal expectations, especially on young women, and offers a fresh perspective on embracing imperfections and redefining personal success. 21:05 no In this thought-provoking episode of "Fishing Without Bait," host Jim Ellermeyer welcomes guest Mike Oglesbee for a deep dive into personal transformation, the significance of setting boundaries, and the liberating power of choice. Oglesbee shares his profound journey of overcoming family estrangement and the challenges of growing up in a toxic environment, highlighting the pivotal decision to stand up for himself and the ensuing path to self-discovery. This episode sheds light on the destructive nature of imposed identities and societal expectations, especially on young women, and offers a fresh perspective on embracing imperfections and redefining personal success. Listeners will gain invaluable insights into dealing with low self-esteem, breaking free from toxic situations, and the importance of nurturing one’s mental health. Oglesbee emphasizes the role of self-awareness, the necessity of conscious decision-making, and the concept of time as our most valuable asset. Through a blend of personal anecdotes and professional wisdom, this episode encourages a shift towards a more objective and truthful understanding of oneself and the world. Find out more about Mike Oglesbee at www.mikeoglesbee.com 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! personal growth, overcoming adversity, setting boundaries, self-discovery, mental health, self-esteem, societal expectations, personal transformation, identity, resilience, conscious choice, family estrangement, toxic environments, embracing imperfections, self-improvement In this thought-provoking episode of "Fishing Without Bait," host Jim Ellermeyer welcomes guest Mike Oglesbee for a deep dive into personal transformation, the significance of setting boundaries, and the liberating power of choice. Oglesbee shares his profound journey of overcoming family estrangement and the challenges of growing up in a toxic environment, highlighting the pivotal decision to stand up for himself and the ensuing path to self-discovery. This episode sheds light on the destructive nature of imposed identities and societal expectations, especially on young women, and offers a fresh perspective on embracing imperfections and redefining personal success.

Listeners will gain invaluable insights into dealing with low self-esteem, breaking free from toxic situations, and the importance of nurturing one’s mental health. Oglesbee emphasizes the role of self-awareness, the necessity of conscious decision-making, and the concept of time as our most valuable asset. Through a blend of personal anecdotes and professional wisdom, this episode encourages a shift towards a more objective and truthful understanding of oneself and the world.

Find out more about Mike Oglesbee at www.mikeoglesbee.com

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 thought-provoking episode of "Fishing Without Bait," host Jim Ellermeyer welcomes guest Mike Oglesbee for a deep dive into personal transformation, the significance of setting boundaries, and the liberating power of choice. Oglesbee shares his profound journey of overcoming family estrangement and the challenges of growing up in a toxic environment, highlighting the pivotal decision to stand up for himself and the ensuing path to self-discovery. This episode sheds light on the destructive nature of imposed identities and societal expectations, especially on young women, and offers a fresh perspective on embracing imperfections and redefining personal success.

Listeners will gain invaluable insights into dealing with low self-esteem, breaking free from toxic situations, and the importance of nurturing one’s mental health. Oglesbee emphasizes the role of self-awareness, the necessity of conscious decision-making, and the concept of time as our most valuable asset. Through a blend of personal anecdotes and professional wisdom, this episode encourages a shift towards a more objective and truthful understanding of oneself and the world.

Find out more about Mike Oglesbee at www.mikeoglesbee.com

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!

]]>