Open Chair Podcast

Somebody once told me I was "one of the good ones." I laughed it off. It took me years to understand what I'd actually agreed to. We've all learned to call a certain kind of silence a boundary. If it doesn't touch me, it's not my problem. I look out for me and mine, and everybody else can figure out their own thing. And honestly — I get it. I've lived it. But somewhere along the way, "minding my o...

I knew I wanted to be a cop since I was about five years old. I was also the kid selling candy out of my backpack at school and running a little store off my front porch. Two things that the world later told me couldn't both be true. For most of my life I was told I was too scattered. Pick a lane. Narrow it down. Focus. People who loved me said it, and for a long time I believed something was wron...

The conversation explores the constant process of coming out and the importance of authenticity in relationships. It delves into the challenges of revealing one's identity at work, the pressure to conform to stereotypes, and the concept of 'covering.' It also discusses the inner coming out and the evolution of being gay, emphasizing the need for authenticity in dating and relationships. Takeaways...

The Open Chair Podcast is introduced as a space for real, authentic conversations without judgment or pressure. The host emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and the freedom to think out loud. The deteriorating state of genuine conversations is discussed, highlighting the need for authentic dialogue. The podcast aims to create a safe and open space for listeners to share and learn from one a...

Quick note before we get into it: I recorded this one a few months back, shortly after the incident I reference in the episode. Life got busy and I'm just now putting it out. So when you hear me say "a few days ago," that's why. The conversation itself still holds up, so here it is. The podcast episode delves into the shooting incident involving Renee Good and ICE agents in Minneapolis, exploring...

The conversation delves into the definition of a good life, exploring the shift in perspectives over time. It also addresses the challenges of achieving work-life balance, transitioning careers, setting realistic goals, and the reality of work in today's environment. The conversation delves into the themes of work-life balance, generational differences in work perspectives, the impact of socialism...