Jessie shares what happened after losing her dream job as a set painter for the Pittsburgh CLO and how that unexpected change forced her to pivot into a completely new career path. From working difficult interim jobs to finding fulfillment in a benefits administration role, Jessie reflects on discovering appreciation, purpose, and contribution in unexpected places.

The conversation explores the importance of taking risks versus gambling, building a stable foundation through relationships, and leaning on community during uncertain times. Jessie also discusses her continued connection to creativity through art and wrestling, including launching a small-scale art venture.

Jim and Jessie dive into deeper themes of mindfulness, including how we minimize our accomplishments, the role of support systems, and the difference between confidence and arrogance—especially in the world of professional wrestling.

This episode is a powerful reminder that life’s direction isn’t always linear, and with support, willingness, and self-awareness, we can rebuild stronger foundations.

🎯 Calls to Action
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Pick up our book: Learn to Fish Without Bait: A 365-Day Mindfulness Journal and Adult Coloring Book
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Shane opens up about growing up in an environment marked by addiction, violence, and scarcity, while still finding moments of community, guidance, and protection. Rather than becoming a victim of his circumstances, he made intentional decisions to stay grounded in sports, discipline, and work — even when easier and more destructive paths were readily available.

Throughout this episode, Shane reflects on learning from the mistakes of others, refusing to settle for less, and choosing action over self-pity. Jim connects these experiences to mindfulness principles, recovery thinking, and the idea that real change comes from effort, behavior, and consistent choices — not just intention or wishful thinking.

Topics explored include:

Growing up without a safety net

Making conscious “wise mind” choices

Learning resilience through adversity

Taking action instead of living in “ifs, buts, and maybes”

Betting on yourself when others doubt you

Speaking intention into existence through action

This is Part 1 of a continuing conversation that sets the foundation for deeper discussions on identity, growth, and mindful living in future episodes.

🎧 Subscribe to Fishing Without Bait on your favorite podcast player
💙 Support 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

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.

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.