Joanna shares the story of losing her husband just months after their marriage—a loss that didn’t just take a partner, but reshaped her entire world. She opens up about experiencing prolonged grief disorder, losing years of her life to trauma, and the physical, emotional, and neurological effects that followed.

This conversation explores:

The reality of grief beyond what society expects
How trauma impacts the body and mind
The loss of identity, faith, and emotional connection
Why “I know how you feel” can be harmful
The importance of sitting with pain instead of trying to fix it

This is not a conversation about “moving on.” It’s about learning to exist again.

Beyond her personal journey, Joanna continues to create across multiple platforms:

🎶 The Occasional Epiphany:
https://ceeteecee.bandcamp.com/album/the-occasional-epiphany

🎙️ The Grin Reapers Club Podcast:
https://open.spotify.com/show/66bwzvlXpuOcdxbk3a2ygo

🎬 Cup a Joe Productions:
https://www.facebook.com/cupajoprod
🎧 Calls to Action
Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast player
Support us on Patreon (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

Drawing from principles rooted in 12-step recovery and mindfulness, Jim explains how shifting your mindset—away from comparison, criticism, and complaint—can fundamentally change your thinking, relationships, and even your brain chemistry. Together, they explore how gratitude isn’t just a feeling, but a disciplined practice that reshapes perspective and attracts more positive, authentic connections.

The conversation also tackles real-world challenges: handling gossip, navigating negativity in professional environments, and learning the “graceful art of leaving” situations that no longer serve you. Through relatable examples and practical techniques—like redirecting conversations or simply saying “I don’t need to know”—listeners gain tools to set boundaries without conflict.

Jim introduces a powerful mindfulness exercise centered on prioritizing who and what you “nourish” in your life, emphasizing the importance of investing energy into supportive relationships rather than draining ones.

This episode is a reminder that everyone is in recovery from something—and that choosing gratitude, awareness, and intentional action can lead to a more fulfilling life.
Check out Katie Dudas’ story at https://www.fishingwithoutbait.com/search?q=katie%20dudas

⸻

🎯 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

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Jessie opens up about the realities behind her wrestling journey—what it truly takes to pursue a passion while navigating injuries, setbacks, and the emotional toll that comes with them. She shares her experience with a recent wrist fracture, the frustration of repeated injuries, and the importance of patience and proper healing.

Beyond wrestling, Jessie explores her creative side through painting and artistic expression, revealing how creativity plays a role in her personal growth and recovery. She also reflects on mentorship, resilience, and the courage it takes to keep going—even when giving up feels easier.

This episode highlights the importance of acceptance, adapting to life’s challenges, and finding meaning in difficult moments. Jessie’s message is clear: even in adversity, there is always something to build from.

Part 3 of our conversation with The Unwilting Tatiana.

In this episode, Emily shares the intense and emotional journey following her daughter McKenna’s sudden medical crisis. What began as a normal day quickly turned into a life-threatening situation involving emergency surgery, strokes, and unimaginable uncertainty. Emily walks us through the overwhelming decisions, the devastating prognosis she was given, and the moments that tested her strength like never before.

Despite facing the possibility of losing her child, Emily found herself holding onto even the smallest signs of hope — a breath over a ventilator, a slight movement, a reason to keep going. She reflects on the emotional toll, the fear of the unknown, and how she navigated anxiety, trauma, and the temptation of relapse during the darkest moments.

This episode is a powerful testament to resilience, faith, and the importance of support systems when life changes in an instant.

This is Part 2 of our conversation with Emily.

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

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

Shane shares how moments of upheaval led him toward clarity, spiritual grounding, and a renewed sense of purpose. Together, we explore how constant noise, digital distraction, and negativity pull us away from presence — and how reclaiming awareness allows us to respond rather than react. From the idea of “controlling the controllable” to surrounding yourself with people who align with your values, this episode is about choosing purpose over chaos.

We also touch on humor, humanity, and the importance of simple kindness — reminding us that being a good human being costs nothing but can change everything.

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