Welcome to another episode of the No Fixed Agenda podcast, presented by Bubs Naturals and hosted by Jeff Stoner. In this special “Phone a Friend” segment, Jeff reconnects with longtime friend Jen Egbert for a candid, funny, and nostalgic conversation.

Episode Highlights:

• Jeff and Jen reminisce about their 25+ year friendship, from meeting at Rally Sport gym in Boulder to wild stories from their younger days.
• Reflections on the evolution of friendships, moving from college to post-college life, and the importance of lasting connections.
• Hilarious and honest tales from Boulder, including memorable characters, gym stories, and the infamous “Maggie” saga.
• Jen’s journey from personal training and retail to a successful career in high-end real estate.
• Insider recommendations for visiting Boulder: where to stay, eat, drink, and hike, plus local tips for making the most of your trip.
• Reflections on Boulder’s unique vibe, community, and why it’s such a special place to live and visit.

Connect with Us:

• Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, or your favorite podcast platform.
• Presented by Bubs Naturals. Music by the Poor Dirty Astronauts, lyrics by Matt Meyer.

Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend and let us know your favorite Boulder memory or spot.

In this episode, the hosts are joined by Dr. Aleksandra Drecun (Alex), a psychologist specializing in anxiety disorders, body dysmorphia, and related conditions. The conversation explores the impact of social media on body image, the rise of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), and the challenges people face in a world of shifting beauty standards.

Key Topics Discussed:

• What is Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)?
• The difference between BDD and OCD
• How social media and influencer culture contribute to body image issues
• The prevalence of BDD (estimated 50 million Americans affected)
• Gender differences and the rise of BDD in men
• The role of cosmetic surgery and "Snapchat Dysmorphia"
• The spectrum of BDD: mild to severe cases
• The connection between BDD and eating disorders
• The impact of BDD on youth and the role of social media in childhood
• Strategies for managing body image issues and when to seek help
• The importance of realistic goals and focusing on how you feel, not just how you look

Notable Quotes:

• "BDD is a psychiatric condition where a person is preoccupied by a perceived physical flaw, real or imagined."
• "Social media has removed the gatekeepers, allowing anyone to influence beauty standards."
• "The internal check is always the priority. We don't sacrifice our health for a look."

Takeaways:

• Body dysmorphia is more common than most people realize and can affect anyone.
• Social media can both harm and help body image, depending on how it's used.
• Seeking help is important if body image concerns are causing distress or impairing daily life.
• Focus on health and how you feel, not just appearance.

Contact & Resources: For more information or to contact Dr. Alek, visit www.a4ct.com or call (858) 792-3541.

In this episode, Mike D shares his journey from a challenging childhood and addiction to becoming a coach, community leader, and founder of the Heavy Breathing Foundation. He discusses the power of strength training, mentorship, and breaking cycles of trauma for underserved youth and adults.

Key Topics & Highlights:

• Mike D’s background and personal story
• The impact of language: “at-risk” vs. “underserved”
• How strength training and powerlifting aided his recovery
• Founding the Heavy Breathing Foundation: mission and metaphor
• Supporting youth and adults through gym access and mentorship
• Collaborations with schools and community organizations
• Fundraising, events, and sustainability
• Breaking cycles of trauma and the importance of lived experience
• Mike’s vision for the future

Notable Quotes:

• “Trauma attracts trauma.”
• “The iron isn’t therapy, but it sure does help me process.”
• “If you want to learn about business, start one. If you want to learn about people, start a non-profit.”

Links & Resources:

• Heavy Breathing Foundation: heavybreathingfoundation.org
• Instagram: @thisisheavybreathing
• Mike D’s Instagram: @mikem.dsm

Contact & Participation:

• The foundation works with local schools and is open to community members.
• Interested in collaborating, donating, or participating? Reach out via the website or Instagram.

Thank you to Mike D for sharing his story and for his work in the community!

In this episode, we dive deep into the ongoing debate of "work to live" versus "live to work." We hosts share personal stories about late-night car troubles, the challenges of parenting, and the exhaustion that comes with balancing business and family life.

Key topics discussed include:

• The evolution of work-life balance across generations, from Baby Boomers to Gen Z and Alpha.
• How the COVID-19 pandemic shifted mindsets about work, entrepreneurship, and remote work.
• The realities of starting and running a business—why it’s often harder than expected.
• Personal transitions from a "live to work" mentality to a "work to live" approach, and the importance of self-care, family, and setting boundaries.
• The myth of perfect balance and practical strategies for finding what works for you, including setting intentional "shut-off" times and recharging with meaningful activities.
• Reflections on the influence of social media, hustle culture, and the unique pressures faced by content creators and influencers.
• The importance of defining your own version of success, whether that means building a "life business" or a "big business."
• Tips for entrepreneurs and business owners on managing burnout, setting boundaries, and maintaining mental health.

The hosts encourage listeners to reflect on their own work-life balance, share their experiences, and join the conversation in the comments.

We’d love to hear from you! Drop a note in the comments with your thoughts on work-life balance and whether you work to live or live to work.

In this episode, we welcome Priscilla Rojas, co-founder of Santa Mujeres Running Club, to share her inspiring journey in the world of trail running and community building. The conversation dives into:

• The unique dynamic and roles among the podcast hosts, and how their backgrounds shape the show.
• Priscilla’s recent experience running the UTMB 20K in Chihuahua, Mexico, including the cultural significance, the challenges, and the emotional connection to her heritage.
• The origins and growth of Santa Mujeres Running Club, a community focused on inclusivity, representation, and empowering women of color in running.
• Overcoming cultural barriers and stereotypes in fitness, and the importance of representation for minority communities in endurance sports.
• The impact of COVID-19 on fitness communities, and how Santa Mujeres adapted and thrived during the pandemic.
• The transition to nonprofit status, and how the club reinvests in its members through events, programming, and support for runners.
• Stories of breaking generational and cultural norms around health, fitness, and community involvement.
• The importance of celebrating every runner, including the “Dead F***ing Last” (DFL) award, and fostering a supportive, judgment-free environment.
• Future visions for Santa Mujeres, including expansion, new chapters, and continued mentorship for women in running.

Whether you’re a seasoned runner, new to the sport, or interested in building inclusive communities, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and heartfelt stories.

In this episode, the hosts are joined by Brenda Stevens for an in-depth discussion on narcissism, its various types, and how it manifests in relationships and society. Building on a previous conversation, the group explores the nuances of narcissistic personality disorder, the spectrum of narcissistic traits, and their impact on individuals and communities.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Pop culture references (Friends, Seinfeld) as an entry point.
• Recap of previous discussion on narcissism in family dynamics.
• Types of narcissists: covert (introverted), overt, malignant, cerebral, somatic.
• Deep dive into covert narcissists and their manipulative tactics.
• Nature vs. nurture: Is narcissism inherited or learned?
• Narcissism and criminal behavior, including the “dark triad.”
• Narcissism in society and politics, with references to public figures.
• The role of enablers (“flying monkeys”) in supporting narcissists.
• Why certain professions attract narcissistic personalities.
• Spiritual and cerebral narcissism.
• Practical advice for recognizing narcissistic behaviors.
• The importance of empathy and boundaries.
• Healing and self-care after narcissistic abuse.

Resources & Links:

• Brenda’s podcast: “Two Queens and a Joker: My Narcissist Ex and Me”

If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, rate, and review the show. Share your thoughts or questions in the comments, and let us know what topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes.

Welcome back to No Fixed Agenda, presented by Bubs Naturals! In this episode, the hosts dive into the wild world of lotteries—what would you do if you won big? The conversation kicks off with a fascinating story about a mathematician who managed to win the lottery 14 times across three countries, using nothing but math, strategy, and a network of investors. The hosts break down how he pulled it off, the odds, and the logistics—especially in a pre-internet world.

From there, the discussion turns personal: What would you do if you won the lottery? The hosts share their own perspectives, comparing their younger, more impulsive selves to their current, more mature outlooks. Would they keep it a secret? Pay off debts? Buy a vintage Bronco or a new truck? Or would life stay mostly the same, just with a little less stress?

Key topics include:

• The “curse” of winning the lottery and why sudden wealth can be a double-edged sword.
• The importance of financial literacy and planning before making big moves.
• How family, friends, and even distant relatives react when someone comes into money.
• The value of doing what you love, regardless of your bank account.
• Trust funds, inheritances, and why sometimes struggle is what shapes us.
• The classic movie “Brewster’s Millions” and the challenge of spending money wisely.
• Advice for young people who come into money: talk to someone older, get perspective, and don’t rush.

Listener Question: What would YOU do if you won the lottery? Share your story in the comments or on our social media pages—we want to hear your take!

Thanks for tuning in! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and join the conversation.

In this lively episode of "No Fixed Agenda," we kick off our new segment, "Phone a Friend," with a special guest: Nick from Austin, Texas. The conversation covers everything from Austin’s legendary music festivals and Formula 1, to the city’s unbeatable food scene, wild parties, and the story of a friendship that started in Maui and keeps on rolling.

Guest:

• Nick (Austin, TX) – Longtime friend, music lover, foodie, and unofficial Austin ambassador.

Key Topics & Highlights:

• Austin City Limits & Festival Life: Behind-the-scenes stories from Austin’s biggest music events, including tales of headliners, logistics, and the city’s transformation during festival season.
• Formula 1 in Austin: What it’s like when the world comes to town, people-watching at the Four Seasons, and the city’s international flair.
• How We Met: The origin story of a friendship forged at a Maui resort pool, complete with smuggled drinks and “corner bar” traditions.
• Austin’s Food Scene: From gas station tacos at Rudy’s to legendary barbecue at Franklin’s, Terry Black’s, and more. Tips for visitors and the must-try “barbecue crawl.”
• Texas Wine Country: Surprising facts about Texas as a top wine region, and why Hill Country is a can’t-miss destination.
• Celebrity Spirits: Tequila tastings, Matthew McConaughey stories, and the rise of Austin-based liquor brands.
• Trade Show Adventures: Memories of wild parties, armadillo racing, and the ever-evolving convention scene in Austin and San Antonio.
• Holiday Pop-Ups: Austin’s over-the-top Christmas bars and why the city shines during the holidays.
• Friendship & Traditions: Reflections on travel, reunions, and the importance of making time for friends.