Evan Nelson

We welcome the incredible Stephen Sanchez, whose stories of carving through Newport Beach's formidable waves on his trusty 'roller coaster' surfboard crafted by Alex Gamino set the stage for a profound exploration of the intersection between surfing and life's broader challenges. As we talk about our mutual respect for the art of shaping and the local surf scene, Stephen shares stories from the ocean's depths that serve as powerful metaphors for the personal growth and gratitude cultivated through early morning dawn patrols and navigating life's unpredictability.

Overcoming doubt and building confidence, our guest discusses the parallels between learning to ride the waves and mastering the art of tattooing. The heartfelt stories of personal loss and the quest for inner peace resonate as we discuss the importance of embracing one's unique self and navigating the intricate tapestry of life's adversities with resilience.

Join us for an episode that's far more than just a conversation on surfing and tattoos—it's a philosophically rich dialogue on seeking wisdom, fostering a positive mental outlook, and the search for joy amidst grief. Stephen's ethos of focusing on the present and giving one's best in each moment underpins an inspiring narrative that encourages listeners to face fears with courage, embrace their individuality, and live life to its absolute fullest. 

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We are back! It’s our first episode of Season 2. We talk about the complexities of balancing parenting, personal growth, and the richness of the 'now.' We unwrap the layers of these experiences in our latest season, speaking candidly about fatherhood's lessons, commemorating life's milestones like engagements within our crew, and the sweet spot of aligning our podcast format with the rhythm of our evolving lives.

Season Two unfurls a tapestry of heartfelt dialogues, from the power of presence with family to the taxing demands of careers that can too often overshadow our personal identities. We share stories and the intense pressures faced by first responders and the quest for a balance between professional ambition and spiritual nourishment. Through our reflections, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of the intricacies of life's journey, inviting our community to ponder alongside us the delicate balance required to cherish the present while also preparing for the future.

In this series of conversations, we also navigate the sociopolitical landscape and scrutinize California's current climate. Our commitment shines through as we discuss our First Responders Night of Hope event,  and the transformative power of community storytelling. Join us as we step into these honest spaces, seeking to inspire, connect, and offer a beacon of hope to our listeners through the shared language of our lived experiences.

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Our final episode for this year is a tapestry of emotion, woven with threads of personal triumphs and the contrasting shadows of the holiday season. We share our experiences, from the joyous buzz of giving during a toy drive to the sobering reality of those who find themselves isolated during festivities meant to bring warmth and camaraderie.

With laughter and vulnerability, we traverse the undulating terrain of life's journey, acknowledging the power of forgiveness and the profound impact of relationships. I recount the comical tale of a restroom debacle that turns into a moment of universal empathy and an unexpected reminder to cherish the simple things. We also delve into the stabilizing rituals that keep us grounded, from the discipline of routine workouts to the cathartic release found within the pages of a journal. It's in these candid exchanges that we discover the shared heartbeat of our community, each beat a testament to the resilience we foster within ourselves and each other.

As the episode unwinds, the threads of our conversation are finished with the challenges and triumphs of transformation. We reflect on the bittersweet dance of parenting, the shifting perceptions of our parents through the lens of adulthood, and the enduring gratitude for the podcast family that rallies around us. The journey is punctuated with stories that resonate—a firefighter's solace in our words—and the unflinching honesty of facing the discomforts necessary for growth. Join us for an homage to the past and a toast to the future, a conversation as rich and varied as the lives we lead.

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Unlock the secrets of fire investigation with our latest episode, where seasoned investigators Scott Kuhlman and Chastity Owens narrate their interesting lives in the meticulous world of fire and explosives investigation. Through their eyes, we traverse the challenging educational pathways and the diverse roles within the public and private sectors of this critical field, offering you a rare glimpse into a profession that blends bravery with intellect.

We contrast the split-second decision-making of firefighting with the detailed scene analysis conducted by fire investigators—two sides of the same coin, yet worlds apart in approach. Our guests open up about the intricacies of establishing credibility, the weight certifications hold in court, and the impact of mentors who shape the future of fire investigation. It's a conversation that not only enlightens but also pays homage to the unsung heroes who often work behind the yellow tape.

Enjoy the  deep exploration into the adrenaline-infused intersection of fire investigation, court testimonies, and emerging safety threats, including the volatile nature of lithium-ion battery fires. Join us as we recount personal tales from the field, reflect on the infamous John Orr scandal, and discuss the international implications of fire safety education. This episode promises to leave you with a profound appreciation for the dedication and skill that goes into uncovering the truth behind the flames.

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Ever wondered what life would be like growing up in a war-torn country as a missionary child? Our guest for today, Trevor Williams, paints a vivid picture as he takes us through his extraordinary childhood in Africa and Haiti during the Rwandan genocide. Trevor's tales of his family's faith-driven missionary work and his journey into firefighting are both heartwrenching and inspirational. 

Trevor recounts his first-hand experiences during the catastrophic 2010 earthquake in Haiti. His stories of survivorship, coupled with the trauma of loss, embody the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity. His role as an EMT during this crisis lends a unique lens to the aftermath of the disaster. But Trevor's journey doesn't end there. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to create the Williams Key, a remarkable tool now favored by locksmiths for picking locks.

In our final segment, Trevor shares his vision for the Williams Key and his nonprofit organization, From Foundation. His unwavering commitment to serving his community continues to inspire, embodying the essence of turning tragedy into triumph. From constructing homes in Haiti to innovating locksmithing tools, Trevor's story is a testament to resilience, faith, and the persistent drive to make a difference. Don't miss this episode as we explore the inspiring journey of Trevor Williams and his profound impact on the world.

Thanks for taking the time to listen in. Please leave us 5 stars on Spotify & Apple Podcasts with a review. THANK YOU!

As we ride the waves of discussion with our returning guest, Preston Durnford, we uncover the therapeutic power of surfing, the hindrance of overthinking, and the beauty of embracing the present moment. We delve into the triumphs and challenges faced by Preston as a business owner. Our chat takes a turn down memory lane as we explore his passion for helping others and why it is so important to him.

Want to manifest your thoughts and ideas into reality? Journaling is your best ally. Listen in as Preston shares his inspiring journey of perseverance and the satisfaction of seeing his ideas come alive. We also venture into the importance of maintaining deep friendships, discussing an intriguing article which suggests people tend to have fewer close friends as they age.

We shine light on Preston's magnificent creation, The Epic Journal, which has gained clinical approval for use in behavioral health.  We also spotlight the upcoming "First Responders Night of Hope" event and underscore the importance of mental health among first responders. Be ready to be inspired as we navigate this wave of enlightenment, challenges, and creativity.

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Meet Andrew Robles, a firefighter, paramedic, family man, and owner of Bridgetown Leather Company. Andrew takes us on a fascinating journey through his early days in paramedic school, where, like me, he had initial reservations about becoming a paramedic. We revisit our time serving our communities, battling fires, and the emotionally exhausting trauma we faced head-on every day. Listen in as Andrew discusses his past role as a Fire Suppression Aid for the LA County Fire Department and his grueling training at Rio Hondo's wildland fire academy.

We journey into the heart of firefighting, discussing the unique challenges the job presents, from the physically exhausting days to the emotional toll it takes on our personal lives. Andrew and I share our stories, reflecting on the importance of career satisfaction, the struggle for work-life balance, and the necessity for emotional resilience in this line of work. The conversation takes a lighter turn as we explore the stress-busting activities we love and enjoy.

Andrew's life outside the fire station is as fascinating as his life within. His knack for creating firefighter shields from scratch has evolved into a thriving business, with orders streaming in from fire departments nationwide. We get a glimpse of his meticulous hand-stitching, painting, and the process that goes into producing each distinctive leather shield. Andrew's narratives, both on and off the field, offer engaging, raw, and insightful tales that are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Together, we delve into the tradition and pride associated with the fire service shield, from its significance to the craftsmanship that goes into making it. This conversation isn't just about Andrew's successful shield-making business or our shared experiences as firefighters - it's about finding satisfaction in what you do, pursuing your passions, and the importance of keeping your family at the heart of it all. Don't miss this riveting discussion that takes you behind the scenes of a firefighter's life, on and off duty. 

Thanks for taking the time to listen in. Please leave us 5 stars on Spotify & Apple Podcasts with a review. THANK YOU!

Do you ever feel like fitness has become an unattainable Holy Grail? This episode is a testament to the contrary featuring Cory Gallup and Ross Nelson, who share their transformative health and nutrition journeys. They've put in the hard work, discipline and marathons of self-love to lose over 150 pounds collectively, debunking the myth of quick fixes and fad diets. They take us through their initial approaches, Cory’s 'eat less and move more' mantra, and Ross's tailored plan, and the importance of aligning with like-minded wellness warriors along the way.

Stacks of fitness magazines and quick-fix diet plans can often leave us feeling like we're grasping at straws. But Cory and Ross prove that it's about fostering daily habits and a mindset change, not the latest diet trend on Instagram. They candidly discuss their mental battles and the self-criticisms they faced on their path to a healthier lifestyle. Cory shares his experience running a 62-mile race still feeling like the "chubby" kid, injecting a dose of relatability and honesty to the conversation. They emphasize celebrating progress and extending grace to oneself as crucial to sustainable success. 

Ever hit rock bottom? Or felt the glaring need for change? Cory’s been there, and he shares his inspiring journey of clawing back from the precipice and emerging stronger. Together, Cory and Ross explore the value of time, discipline, hard work and the importance of prioritizing family. They delve into their online fitness and nutrition coaching program, offering a supportive community and 24/7 access to themselves. This episode is just the right blend of lessons, inspiration and practical advice for anyone embarking on a journey to better health and fitness.

Thanks for taking the time to listen in. Please leave us 5 stars on Spotify & Apple Podcasts with a review. THANK YOU!

What if you could unravel the mystery of your mind and body, and unlock the secrets of holistic health and healing? Enjoy this conversation as we connect with Hana Miller, a holistic health practitioner with an unconventional journey that is as inspiring as it is intriguing. Hana takes us on a  ride through her life's adventures, from a pre-med student to an international flight attendant, before uncovering her true passion in Chinese medicine and acupuncture. 

Join us as we explore Hana’s transformative journey from conventional medicine to holistic health practices and ayahuasca therapy. We dive deep into her program, the Balanced Woman, where she addresses a plethora of issues including fertility, anxiety and postpartum depression. Not only that, but we also journey with her from the tropical warmth of Hawaii to the chilly waters of the East Coast, discussing the challenges and joys of surfing and the significance of respecting the ocean. 

As we round up our conversation, Hana shares invaluable insights on the impact of diet on our well-being, and the connection between food, health, and acupuncture. She sheds light on how small, consistent steps can lead to healing when it comes to mental and emotional health. Plus, get ready to be enthralled by the story of her first surfing experience, the inspiration she draws from her dad's unwavering passion for surfing, and more. Join us in this enlightening episode with Hana Miller - it promises to be a journey you won't forget!

Thanks for taking the time to listen in. Please leave us 5 stars on Spotify & Apple Podcasts with a review. THANK YOU!

Ever wondered what makes TJ Watt a star player or why Kenny Pickett's audibles are changing the game for the Steelers? This episode brings you a careful dissection of the October NFL season, with a close focus on the surprise Steelers-Jaguars matchup. We take you through the highs and lows, contemplating the fate of offensive coordinator Matt Canada while highlighting rising talents like Trevor Lawrence. This discussion isn't limited to just one game. We turn the spotlight onto Ravens and Lions, and the evolution of Lamar Jackson as a pocket passer. 

We step away from the NFL for a moment to reflect on sobering global events. The recent conflict between Israel and Palestine is on everyone's mind, and we take an in-depth look at the complex dynamics at play. We discuss the role of Hamas, the Israeli military's reaction, and the media's part in the narrative. The potential for a world war and the dark role of weapons sales is weighed as we navigate this sensitive topic. In a twist, we draw parallels with NFL incidents, exploring the role of emotions in conflicts.

To end on a positive note, we reflect on gratitude and perspective. In the face of global conflicts and high-stakes football, we urge the importance of appreciation. Remembering to be thankful for our loved ones, our quality of life, and even our access to technology is essential. As we navigate through complex topics, we encourage empathy and support for those less fortunate. Tune in for this unique blend of sports analysis and insightful global commentary.

Thanks for taking the time to listen in. Please leave us 5 stars on Spotify & Apple Podcasts with a review. THANK YOU!