Sorgatron Media Master Feed - Episodes Tagged with “Fishing Without Bait”

Fishing Without Bait 504: Zeke Mercer on Identity, Ego & Respect

Sorgatron Media — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 13:00:00 -0500

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

Fishing Without Bait 503: Zeke Mercer: Sacrifice, Identity & Self-Discovery

Sorgatron Media — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0500

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 501: Faith, Focus and Control with Shane Chojnacki

Sorgatron Media — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 13:00:00 -0500

In Part 4 of our conversation with Shane Chojnacki — known in the ring as The Savage Gentleman Victor Benjamin — we dive deeper into faith, mindfulness, personal values, and living with intention.

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

Fishing Without Bait 497: The Stories We Carry — and the Ones We Release with Santina Grace

Sorgatron Media — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 14:00:00 -0500

In Fishing Without Bait 497, we continue our thoughtful conversation with returning guest Clairvoyant Santina Grace in Part 4 of this series.

This episode centers on listening — to ourselves, to others, and to the deeper awareness that helps us release fear, judgment, and mental clutter. Jim Ellermeyer and Santina discuss compassion, choice points, and the stories we hold onto, as well as the freedom that comes from letting them go.

Through reflection and shared experience, this conversation invites listeners to slow down, practice mindfulness, and approach life with greater understanding and non-judgment.

🎧 Subscribe to Fishing Without Bait on your favorite podcast player
❤️ Support the show with ad-free episodes on Patreon:
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

Fishing Without Bait 496: Clearing the Etch-A-Sketch: Letting Go of What Isn’t Ours

Sorgatron Media — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 13:00:00 -0500

In Fishing Without Bait Episode 496 – *Clearing the Etch-A-Sketch: Letting Go of What Isn’t Ours, we continue Part 3 of our conversation with returning guest and Clairvoyant **Santina Grace. This episode focuses on healing trauma without rewriting or reliving the past. Through grounding visualizations, breathwork, and recovery-based insights, Santina and the *Fishing Without Bait team discuss how emotional experiences can be deconstructed so they no longer control our present moment. Using metaphors like clearing an Etch-A-Sketch or rooting into the earth through mindful breathing, the conversation highlights how releasing emotional energy that doesn’t belong to us creates space for clarity, neutrality, and joy. We also explore recovery as a universal human process — because everyone is in recovery from something — and how honoring yourself begins with learning to listen. 🎧 Subscribe to Fishing Without Bait on your favorite podcast player 💙 Support the show 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

Fishing Without Bait 492: A Culture Of Guilt Imposed By Religious Structure

Sorgatron Media — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 13:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, Jim Ellermeyer guides listeners through one of the most transformative practices in mindfulness and recovery: letting go. Whether it’s old fears, expectations, resentments, or the emotional weight we’ve carried for years, Jim explains how release is not weakness—it’s liberation.

Through grounded insight, 12-step philosophy, and real-world examples, Jim explores:
• Why letting go feels so difficult
• How control and fear keep us stuck
• The connection between surrender and mindfulness
• How to recognize what you’re still carrying
• Practical ways to soften your grip and reclaim peace

This episode invites you to step out of old patterns and into a more open, honest, intentional life. If you’re ready to grow, breathe, and move forward—this conversation is for you.

🎧 Explore more episodes at www.FishingWithoutBait.com

Fishing Without Bait 490: What Would Jesus Say to Today’s World Leaders?

Sorgatron Media — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 21:00:00 -0500

Welcome back, friends, to Fishing Without Bait: A Lifetime Without Definitive Expectations.

In Episode 490, Jim Ellermeyer and producer Mike Sorg explore what leadership truly means through the lens of Jesus of Nazareth. From the radical humility and servant leadership he modeled 2,000 years ago to his timeless call for justice and compassion, Jim examines how these teachings apply to the world’s political and social climate today.

This thoughtful conversation covers:
• How Jesus’s example challenges modern power and ego
• The moral responsibility of leaders to serve everyone—not just their supporters
• Why integrity, honesty, and empathy are essential in times of division
• The enduring wisdom of “Blessed are the peacemakers” and “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also”

Jim also reflects on the story of the Good Samaritan and closes with a reminder that hope—and helping others—remains our greatest prescription.

🎧 Listen now at FishingWithoutBait.com or on your favorite podcast platform.
✨ Do a kindness for yourself and for another. Forgive, reconnect, and live mindfully.

Fishing Without Bait 489: Stochastic Rhetoric: The Scary Trick Politicians Use to Manipulate Minds

Sorgatron Media — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 13:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, Jim Ellermeyer and producer Mike Sorg wade into some deep—and dangerous—waters. Together, they explore how stochastic rhetoric and obfuscation have become the most powerful tools in modern political communication.

What do those words mean? In short, they describe how leaders and media use vague, coded, or confusing language to manipulate emotions, create division, and dodge accountability. From “dog whistles” to “plausible deniability,” Jim explains how these tactics quietly shape behavior and beliefs—without ever saying things outright.

But this episode isn’t just about politics; it’s about mindfulness in the face of manipulation. Jim and Mike offer practical ways to recognize these tricks, question what we’re told, and bring compassion back into our conversations.

“If you have a choice between being right and being kind, choose kind—and you’re going to be right every time.”

In a time of noise and division, Fishing Without Bait invites listeners to slow down, think critically, and reconnect with what truly matters: kindness, awareness, and authenticity.

🎧 Listen now at: www.FishingWithoutBait.com
📺 Watch on YouTube: Fishing Without Bait 489
💬 Join the discussion: #Mindfulness #MediaLiteracy #FishingWithoutBait

Fishing Without Bait 488: Are You Being Fooled by Media? The Truth About Manipulation & Identity Loss

Sorgatron Media — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 13:00:00 -0400

In this eye-opening episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer is joined once again by producer Mike Sorg to explore how modern media shapes our identities, fuels our purchases, and even distorts our sense of self-worth.

From emotional manipulation in advertising to influencer culture and data-driven targeting, Jim and Mike unpack the psychological tactics behind today’s media and tech. How does a Power Glove from the ’80s connect to the viral influencer culture of today? Are we in control of our choices—or are we reacting without realizing it?

In this episode:
• Why media makes us feel “less than”
• Celebrity endorsements vs. authentic influence
• Targeted ads, data mining, and algorithmic persuasion
• Unrealistic expectations and identity loss in the digital age
• The mental health toll of comparison culture
• What it really means to be unmanageable
• Mindful practices to resist manipulation

“It’s much easier to fool someone than to convince them they’re being fooled.”

Take a breath. Check the facts. And most importantly—remember who you are.

🎧 Listen, learn, and share at FishingWithoutBait.com

Fishing Without Bait 485: Feeling Stuck? You Might Be Living on Autopilot

Sorgatron Media — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 13:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Jim Ellermeyer invites you to reflect on one of the most fundamental shifts you can make in life: choosing to live intentionally rather than simply existing.

Together with producer Mike Sorg, Jim explores the concept of being a human being rather than a human doing, and how small mindful changes—like replacing “I have to” with “I choose to”—can radically transform your daily experience.

💭 Topics include:
• The danger of living on autopilot
• How “should” creates shame and anxiety
• The power of journaling and silence
• Letting go of digital distractions and negativity
• Celebrating small victories and choosing growth over comfort

You’ll walk away with tangible insights and invitations to return to your authentic self—one breath, one choice at a time.

⸻

🛍 Grab the Learn to Fish Without Bait 365-Day Mindfulness Journal & Adult Coloring Book:
https://www.fishingwithoutbait.com/swag

💖 Support the show on Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/fishingwithoutbait

🌐 Listen to more at:
https://www.fishingwithoutbait.com

Fishing Without Bait 482: This Mindset Shift Changes Everything

Sorgatron Media — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, Jim Ellermeyer and producer Mike Sorg take a transformative dive into a concept often overlooked in recovery, education, parenting, and everyday life: positive chain analysis.

Rather than dwelling on mistakes or missteps, Jim challenges us to ask a better question—What worked? When something goes right in your life, your recovery, your work, or your relationships, how often do you pause and examine the people, places, and circumstances that helped make it happen?

Through stories from the production world, recovery work, and even the brewing of a perfect glass of iced tea, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and mindful reflection.

✨ Topics include:
• Why we need to reinforce success, not just correct failure
• How to build confidence in teams and individuals
• Ways to encourage children and students through curiosity
• The power of journaling to document what did work
• A sneak peek into our new 365-day mindfulness activity calendar

🎣 As always, this podcast is about living life without definitive expectations, and making choices with honesty, open-mindedness, and willingness. So ask yourself today—not what went wrong, but what went right.

👉 Join the conversation and share your own moments of success at www.FishingWithoutBait.com

Fishing Without Bait 481: Jesus’ Message Was Simpler Than You Think

Sorgatron Media — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 14:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer and co-host Mike explore the difference between spirituality and organized religion and what it truly means to nurture your spirit.

Together, they revisit the timeless teachings of Jesus, focusing on his central message of love, compassion, and self-discovery — a message that’s often been overshadowed by societal control, rigid traditions, and centuries of interpretation.

We’ll discuss:
• Why spirituality is about personal connection rather than institutional rules.
• The two greatest commandments Jesus taught and why they free us from fear.
• Insights from alternative gospels like Thomas and Mary Magdalene that emphasize the divine spark within.
• How to embrace mindfulness, self-validation, and inner freedom in your daily life.

Jim challenges us to see the divine within ourselves and others, and to choose kindness, forgiveness, and mindful living as a way of nurturing that spark.

🎧 Join us on a journey toward living without definitive expectations — where true freedom lies in love, compassion, and understanding.

Visit FishingWithoutBait.com to listen to more episodes, share your thoughts, and explore ways to live fully in the moment.

Fishing Without Bait 480: The 3 Big C’s That Drain Your Happiness (And How to Avoid Them!)

Sorgatron Media — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 14:00:00 -0400

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.

Through stories of sports legends like John Wooden, reflections on culture, and lessons from film, Jim offers practical insights on how to plant flowers instead of weeds in your daily moments. Life isn’t measured in years—it’s measured in the choices we make right now.

Join us as we reflect on how to let go of negativity, embrace kindness, and live each moment well.

Fishing Without Bait 451: From Software Design to Pop Culture Studies: Christopher Maverick’s Journey

Sorgatron Media — Tue, 07 Jan 2025 13:00:00 -0500

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 dive into how storytelling, technology, and creativity can reshape our understanding of literature and life. Visit FishingWithoutBait.com for more episodes.Find out more about Chris Maverick and listen to the VoxPopCast at www.chrismaverick.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 !

Fishing Without Bait 450: A Mindful Holiday Season: Balance, Boundaries, and Joy

Sorgatron Media — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 13:00:00 -0500

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 !

Fishing Without Bait 443: Stewardship and Sobriety: Navigating Recovery with Tara From keepcomingback.net

Sorgatron Media — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 14:00:00 -0400

In this insightful episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer welcomes back Tara from the KeepComingBack.net podcast. Tara discusses her mission of sharing recovery journeys through modern speaker tapes, offering listeners the chance to hear individuals’ paths to sobriety and hope. The conversation delves into deep themes of ownership and stewardship, particularly in the context of 12-step philosophy, where individuals are seen as stewards rather than owners of people and possessions. Tara opens up about balancing her material success with her higher power’s influence, viewing her resources as tools for community support rather than personal gain. They also explore the pervasive role of fear, as highlighted in the recovery journey, and how spiritual growth aids in addressing it. This episode is a profound look at shared experiences, hope, and personal growth in the recovery journey, appealing to listeners seeking encouragement and wisdom in life’s challenges.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 !