In this episode of The Paddy Wagon Podcast, Mike sits down with author Lenore Focht to talk about her incredible journey from city life in Regina (not to be confused with Idiot Mike's fictional "Ra-Geena" location) to running a ranch in rural Saskatchewan. Lenore opens up about what it’s really like to leave the city behind and embrace ranch life — from unexpected wildlife encounters to the everyday realities of teaching, parenting, and marriage.

We also dive into her new memoir and the powerful stories behind it, including candid conversations about mental health, grief, and the ups and downs of family life. With plenty of humor and heart, Lenore shares how writing became a form of healing and why being honest and vulnerable in storytelling matters. This episode is full of real-life lessons, laughs, and inspiration for anyone going through big life changes or looking for relatable, uplifting stories.

Be sure to check out and follow Lenore's socials and grab a copy of her book!!! You won't regret it!

https://www.lfocht.com/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579246496050

https://www.instagram.com/lfocht_authorsk/

https://x.com/lfocht_authorsk

https://a.co/d/dUVXDOg

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/small-town-chaos-l-focht/1147805964?ean=9781069485403

Episode Sponsors:

Mometu

https://mometu.com/

Looking for your next movie, documentary or TV show to binge? Tired of seeing the same 20 movies recommended over and over? Look no further than Mometu!! Great content isn’t reserved for 2 or 3 bigger streaming services we’ve all used and it doesn’t always come in the form of a 100 million dollar budget. Mometu helps you discover often under-served content. Some of the best films you’ve never heard of are out there waiting to be enjoyed. Don’t let the algorithms tell you what’s up next. Mometu has over 10,000 hand-curated titles…. All free… All the time! Put an end to those subscription services today. The Mometu app is available for phones, smart TVs and can also be streamed over the web.

Intro/Outro Music Provided by:

https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/achaidh-cheide

https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/celtic-impulse

Be sure to follow the Paddy Wagon on IG @Paddywagonpod and check us out at https://paddywagonpodcast.com or https://linktr.ee/paddywagonpodcast

Paddy Wagon Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, iHeart Radio and all your other favorite platforms

If you’d like to submit questions, comments, hot takes or just have me respond to some of your random thoughts with some random thoughts of my own…. Please be sure to leave us a message at: https://whatayarn.com/paddywagonpodcast and you’ll be featured on a future episode.

In this episode of The Paddy Wagon Podcast, Mike sits down with Erika Rawes—founder of the ASSFACE Diet and the oldest oldest contestant ever to win, Miss Wake County USA in 2024 at the age of 42—for a raw, relatable, and motivating conversation about what it really means to feel “stuck.”

Erika opens up about redefining limits, breaking stereotypes, and proving that it's never too late to rewrite your story. Together, Mike and Erika explore the idea that no one is ever truly stuck—whether it’s in a job, a body, a mindset, or a life chapter that no longer fits. They dive into how embracing your genuine emotions—anger, frustration, negativity, or optimism—can become fuel for transformation.

Erika shares her unapologetically authentic approach to personal growth, challenging societal expectations and encouraging listeners to trust their instincts, honor their individuality, and take bold action.

If you’ve ever felt trapped, uninspired, or held back by circumstances, this episode delivers empowering insights, real-world motivation, and actionable strategies to help you break free and take control of your life—one honest step at a time.

Perfect for anyone searching for inspiration, mindset shifts, or self-improvement tools, this is a must-listen conversation about resilience, reinvention, and doing life your way.

For more information on how you can become the best version of yourself, please check out https://www.assfacediet.com/ and be sure to follow Erika on IG @assfacediet

Episode Sponsors:

Somatic Therapy NYC

https://somatictherapybrooklyn.com/

IG: @somatictherapyny

Finding a qualified somatic practitioner near NYC can be essential for addressing your mental, emotional, and physical well-being in a holistic approach that honors the interconnectedness of the mind and body. At Somatic Therapy NYC Andria Lea is conveniently located in Midtown Manhattan and offers in-person sessions for those seeking hands-on therapy.

Whether you're located in New York City or beyond, Andria Lea also offers the convenience and ease of remote sessions so support is available where and how works best for you.

When searching for qualified Somatic Therapists near NYC, it's essential to find professionals who are experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable. Andria has undergone extensive training specializing in various somatic modalities to help you achieve your therapeutic goals and has honed her skills through over a decade meeting minds and touching hearts and bodies.

If you're ready to experience the transformative power of somatic therapy, schedule a consultation for free today to explore if this blended approach and if Andria Lea is a good fit for you.

Intro/Outro Music Provided by:

https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/achaidh-cheide

https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/celtic-impulse

Be sure to follow the Paddy Wagon on IG @Paddywagonpod and check us out at https://paddywagonpodcast.com or https://linktr.ee/paddywagonpodcast

Paddy Wagon Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, iHeart Radio and all your other favorite platforms

If you’d like to submit questions, comments, hot takes or just have me respond to some of your random thoughts with some random thoughts of my own…. Please be sure to leave us a message at: https://whatayarn.com/paddywagonpodcast and you’ll be featured on a future episode.

In this episode of The Paddy Wagon Podcast, host Mike O’Brien sits down with sommelier and podcast host, Sage Toomey for an engaging conversation about the world of wine, tasting techniques, and the stories behind every bottle. They dive into how wine regions, grape varieties, and pairing principles shape the flavors we love. Sage opens up about her path from passionate wine lover to professional sommelier, sharing insider tips on choosing the right wine, understanding terroir, and the unexpected drama of the wine industry. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, casual drinker, or just curious about the culture of wine, this episode is a perfect pour of insight and entertainment.

Be sure to check out Sage:

@sage_toomey (TikTok and Instagram) https://audioboom.com/channels/5150980-secret-lives-of-sommeliers

Episode Sponsors:

Mortal Triumph

https://www.mortaltriumph.com

Mortal Triumph was built on sacrifice. it honors the Armed Forces members who gave everything…. The ones who never made it home. Their legacy isn’t just a memory; it’s a standard. Carry their names forward with actions… Not words. Be sure to use PADDYWAGON10 at checkout for 10% off your purchase. We promise… It will be the most comfortable shirt you ever wear!

Intro/Outro Music Provided by:

https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/achaidh-cheide

https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/celtic-impulse

Be sure to follow the Paddy Wagon on IG @Paddywagonpod and check us out at https://paddywagonpodcast.com or https://linktr.ee/paddywagonpodcast

Paddy Wagon Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, iHeart Radio and all your other favorite platforms

If you’d like to submit questions, comments, hot takes or just have me respond to some of your random thoughts with some random thoughts of my own…. Please be sure to leave us a message at: https://whatayarn.com/paddywagonpodcast and you’ll be featured on a future episode.