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Bryan and Nick are starting a new adventure! Deep dives into the stand-up comedian world.  You remember how Bryan and Nick are Toastmasters? (of course you do, they only mention it every chance they get) Well, as Toastmasters they have gotten in the habit of evaluating people speaking. It was only a short step to get to their new podcast, "Laughs Per Minute". They will be doing a deep dive with a guest into stand up comedians by evaluating them up and down, backwards and forwards.  We will be releasing episodes every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month. So if you even slightly enjoyed listening to Help Yourself, then you'll for sure slightly enjoy Laughs Per Minute.

Ever found yourself craving a Chick-fil-A chicken sandwich only to realize you arrived during breakfast hours? That’s precisely what happened to me, leading to a surprisingly delightful discovery of chicken minis and the magic of Polynesian sauce. This episode kicks off with a philosophical reflection on the fleeting nature of time, seamlessly transitioning into a humorous recount of my fast-food adventure. We explore the emotional rollercoaster of food cravings and the unexpected joys that can emerge from unmet expectations. Shifting gears, we dive into the mechanics of fast-food drive-thru efficiency, contrasting Chick-fil-A's sophisticated multi-threaded system with In-N-Out's streamlined simplicity. Along the way, we touch on the sentimental journey of replacing an old flask with a new, trendy hydration drink from Ghost, highlighting the playful quirks of modern beverage marketing. From homemade iced coffee mishaps to the intricacies of trademarked ingredients, this chapter offers a light-hearted yet insightful look at contemporary consumer experiences. On a more profound note, we delve into strategies for navigating life's inevitable transitions, from job loss to retirement. Drawing from Tim Ferris’s fear setting and Jeff Goins' introspective framework, we discuss practical tools for managing change and fostering personal growth. With anecdotes ranging from bone broth substitutes to a Vietnam veteran finding joy in Call of Duty, this episode blends humor with heartfelt advice, underscoring the importance of preparation, mindset, and self-reflection in the face of life's ebb and flow.

Ever gone back for seconds at a restaurant because the food was just that good? Bryan did, with a carnitas burrito that left him craving more. Hear about his mouth-watering experience with sweet pico de gallo and homemade tortillas, and why he takes a shot of salsa with every bite. This episode kicks off with this flavor-packed anecdote and flows into a lively chat about the quirky ways people enjoy food. From favorite indulgences like Starburst-flavored sparkling ice drinks to the art of homemade iced coffee, we journey through various food trends and preferences. Discover the peculiar love for slightly soggy tortillas and the unforgettable flavor of the custom-made "loco nut" coffee. Our discussion takes an insightful turn, reflecting on how our perspectives shape the way we view endings, whether it's the end of a day or the excitement of pre-vacation nights. We then dive into the complexities of attachment, sparked by a viral story about a woman's overreaction at McDonald's. Explore how minor events can carry significant emotional weight and what they reveal about our broader life transitions. With a focus on career changes and organizational restructuring, we discuss how people cling to the familiar and the importance of agency in embracing new beginnings. Come laugh, reflect, and gain new insights as we navigate the intersections of food, philosophy, and life's intricate moments.

Ever wondered why Dwayne Johnson might be the perfect snack mascot? Join us for a playful feast of conversation as Bryan and Nick kick things off with some lighthearted banter before diving into their latest snacking escapades. From Bryan's surprising encounter with Trader Joe’s spicy Thai lime and chili almonds to Nick’s delicious meal featuring Monterey-spiced chicken and Kerrygold butter potatoes, this episode of "Food, Philosophy, and Snacking_tacular" is packed with tasty tidbits and health insights. Plus, don’t miss Brian’s nostalgic trip down memory lane with a Shamrock Farms strawberry protein shake that will take you back to your childhood. Ready to be inspired? "The Man in the Arena Continuity" takes a deep dive into Theodore Roosevelt’s iconic speech, reminding us all of the importance of striving and taking action despite inevitable setbacks. We explore how every effort counts, even when things don't go perfectly. A touch of humor is added as we discuss the quirky impact of everyday sounds on our listeners, like the noise of pouring water. This segment is your motivational booster shot to keep pushing forward and engaging in life’s meaningful endeavors. In our final chapters, "Dealing With Inner Criticism and Feedback" and "Understanding the Inner Critic," we tackle the ever-present challenge of managing criticism—from both external voices and our own inner critics. Learn how to turn that nagging internal voice into a supportive inner coach and discover strategies to combat negative self-talk. We also ponder the resilience of public figures who seem immune to widespread criticism and discuss the intriguing condition of aphantasia. By the end, you'll have practical tools to reframe your mindset, boost your self-compassion, and encourage personal growth. Tune in for a perfect blend of humor, philosophy, and actionable advice!

Can a consistent breakfast routine really simplify your life and help you manage your calories effortlessly? Join us on this flavorful journey as we explore the art of crafting the perfect breakfast sandwich, balance taste with health, and navigate the tricky world of indulgent condiments. We also step into Bryan's Beverage Corner to uncover the joys of a cheater nitro cold brew and the guilt-free pleasures of Coke Zero, all while stressing the importance of moderation. This is a tale of routine and culinary passion that might just change your mornings forever. Ever wondered why a single Nitro cold brew can keep some people awake until the wee hours? Listen as we share hilarious coffee shop escapades, including a caffeine-induced sleepless night and the endearing frustration of an infrequent Starbucks visitor. Discover the unique charm of the Fainting Goat coffee shop with its Star Wars-themed drinks and learn why a decaf latte topped with chocolate cold foam could be your new favorite treat. These stories weave humor and insight, revealing the quirks of coffee culture and the simple joys of a well-chosen breakfast. What does Theodore Roosevelt's wisdom have to do with modern stress and personal growth? Reflect on the timeless relevance of his words as we delve into the battle between the inner critic and the man in the arena. We'll examine the value of failure, the stress of contemporary life, and how recalibrating our reactions can lead to better outcomes. Drawing inspiration from Brene Brown's "Daring Greatly," we emphasize the importance of enthusiasm and purpose in work, and the often difficult task of accepting praise. This episode promises a rich blend of humor, practical advice, and deep reflections designed to inspire and entertain.

Embark with us, Brian and Nick, on a journey that satisfies both palate and mind, where the art of creating a high-protein pizza meets the timeless wisdom of stoicism. We're not just tossing dough here; we're tossing ideas around that will nourish your body and enrich your soul. As I divulge the secrets to crafting a guilt-free slice that's big on taste and light on calories, we'll also sip on some Coke Zero musings, reflecting on how something as simple as our beverage choices can teach us about temperance. Our conversation takes us deeper than the crust of our homemade pizza, into the heart of stoicism and the virtues that can guide a balanced life. Imagine finding tranquility in the midst of a consumer-driven world that's constantly pushing you towards excess. We'll share insights from philosophers like Epictetus and Seneca, and discuss how applying ancient wisdom can help us navigate our modern maze of desires. From the savory layers of self-restraint to the sweet aftertaste of wisdom, we invite you to feast on thoughts that could truly transform your approach to life's indulgences and challenges. We wrap up with a toast to wisdom, the kind that bubbles up in the face of adversity, as serene as a well-risen loaf. Recalling a cherished member of our Toastmasters club, we ponder how life experiences and reflection shape our understanding and response to the world. And as we close this session, we leave you with a parting thought: managing our expectations, much like kneading dough, can lead to a more palatable daily existence, where surprises are the delightful toppings on the pizza of life. Join us and chew on these delectable morsels of knowledge that could very well be the recipe for a more serene, virtuous existence.

Ever wondered how a kebab could lead to an epiphany about ancient philosophy? Join Bryan, Nick, and me as we embark on a gastronomic adventure that pairs delectably with the enduring wisdom of Stoicism. You're in for a savory treat of tales and musings that connect lukewarm chicken skewers and the irresistible charm of cheese curds to the stoic virtues that can anchor us in the tumult of today's world. Peeling back the layers of our daily grind, we draw parallels between the pursuit of a meaningful life and the art of savoring a meal crafted from humble leftovers. From the quenching sips of tropical beverages to candid anecdotes spanning self-help literature to the silver screen, our exchange is peppered with humor and insights. We touch on the Stoic heavyweights—Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius—and the pillars of courage, resistance, and justice that they championed. Whether you’re a seasoned philosopher or simply curious about the stoic way, there's a seat at our table for you. As we round off the conversation, we tackle the delicate tension between personal desires and the broader public good. With a nod to modern distractions like social media and video games, we explore the virtues of temperance and wisdom, offering a perspective that's as nourishing for the soul as the eclectic flavors discussed throughout the show. So, whether you're dishing out a late-night snack or contemplating life's bigger questions, we invite you to feast on this episode that's guaranteed to satisfy both your hunger and your intellect.

Have you ever found yourself in the heat of a pizza topping debate, staunchly defending the honor of pineapple and jalapeños? Well, you're not alone. Our latest episode is a smorgasbord of culinary conundrums and philosophical ponderings, starting with my own guilty pleasure pizza and a taste test that could save your palate from an unfortunate citrus coffee soda mishap. We chew over the joys of local dining and how our personal tastes can elevate a meal from mundane munching to a full-flavored feast of conversation. As we move from sizzling burgers at school games to the celebrity-induced frenzy of Logan Paul's hydration drink, we touch on the ripples created by food trends and influencers. We're not just tossing around opinions on charred Brussels sprouts here; we're diving into the shared experiences and cultural shifts that dining out brings. Plus, we discuss the unexpected delight of air-fried veggies with a side of salsa verde, and the communal joy of a pizookie at BJ's Restaurant. But we don't stop at the dinner table. The episode takes a twist into the paradoxical nature of our world, from the analysis paralysis brought on by too many choices to the elusive nature of originality in an era of AI-assisted creation. We debate whether a Civil War author's work is a tapestry of influences or a beacon of original thought, and we examine the tightrope between inspiration and imitation. Join us for a feast of ideas that will leave you savoring the flavors of thought long after the plates are cleared. Infographic used in Episode

Have you ever pondered the puzzles life throws at you, or how a simple dish like 'egg rice' could spark a philosophical debate? Well, buckle up, because our latest episode traverses the culinary landscape of leftovers, touches on the sweet allure of Starbucks treats, and dives headfirst into the paradoxes that keep our minds spinning. From my kitchen to yours, I reveal the secret spices that transform yesterday's rice into today's breakfast champion, and we explore whether this comfort food has the chops to become a restaurant's crowning glory. With a sprinkle of humor and a dash of self-reflection, we unwrap the enigmas of everyday life that often wear the mask of common sense. As we dissect modern paradoxes, from the impact of reading on personal identity to the intricacies of skill and luck in our endeavors, the conversation is peppered with real-world anecdotes that'll have you nodding along or scratching your head in wonder. Even our podcast transitions, a source of comedic pain, get a moment in the spotlight, as we acknowledge the beauty in the struggle to find the perfect ending to our rambling beginnings. As we reach the apex of our chat, decision-making takes center stage—will it be the egg bites or the shaken espresso? Just kidding. It's about tackling the real-life conundrum of overthinking and the strategies to overcome it. Wrapping up, we tease your appetite for intellectual debate with a hint at the paradox of originality, ensuring the conversation continues beyond today. So, join us as we laugh, ponder, and maybe even change the way you see the world with each episode. No cliffhangers here—just the promise of more enthralling talks to come. Infographic Used in Episode

Have you ever wondered if the Crunchwrap Supreme could hold the secrets to time travel? Feast your ears on our latest episode where we embark on a journey from the inventive culinary twists of Taco Bell to the enigmatic corridors of time itself. Our adventure begins with a lighthearted debate over the Grilled Cheese Steak Burrito's rightful place in the pantheon of Mexican cuisine, leading us into a nostalgic reflection on fast food's evolving landscape. But don't let the playful banter fool you; we're serving up a hearty discussion that will leave you hungering for more than just a value meal. Prepare for a thought-provoking ride as we ponder whether time travelers could be subtly influencing our present or if UFOs are just tourists from our own future. We weave through the fabric of time, pulling at threads from art, fiction, and the very nature of existence. Our conversation takes flight with wild theories and the humorous musings of comedian Nate Bargatze, before posing the tantalizing question: where would you go if you could traverse the epochs at will? Join us for this metaphysical feast, and you might just find yourself craving a side of enlightenment with your nachos. In the final stretch of our temporal odyssey, we turn introspective, examining how the daily rituals we practice are the true vessels that carry us forward. We share personal stories and insights on the profound impact of habits, inspiring you to craft a future filled with intentionality rather than regret. By the end of this episode, we aim to leave you motivated to scrutinize your daily actions with a fresh perspective. So, buckle up, snack in hand, as we explore the intersection of fast food, fleeting moments, and the enduring journey through time.

Savor a PB and J-Witch with me, Bryan, as we embark on an auditory adventure through the essence of time, tinged with the flavors of nostalgia and anticipation. This episode is a tapestry of tastes and thoughts, where I, alongside my friend Nick, venture from a childhood classic snack into the realm of time travel and sentiment. I even take my first sip of Cheerwine, a fizzy reminder that our simplest delights can serve as anchors to the present and portals to the past. Our dialogue meanders through the subjectivity of time, examining how emotions and physical experiences mold its perception. Imagine watching a live event unfold, yet it feels different depending on your time zone—the relativity of time at play. We share stories; I tell you about approaching the age my father was when he passed and how it shapes my daily countdown. Our conversation unearths the profound impact of psychological constructs on the way we navigate life's routines and the distortion of time during heightened states like driving. As our cup overflows with curiosity, we probe the connection between fear and the stretching of time, inspired by scientific studies and the philosophies of authors like Eckhart Tolle. We dissect how the pursuit of new experiences can synchronize our subjective time with the vibrancy of life, making the case for embracing change and self-improvement. And, as a parting gift, we tease the brain-tickling topic of our next bonus episode on time travel. Prepare to have your thoughts on PB and J—and time itself—forever altered.

Ever wondered if the juiciness of a chicken thigh trumps the classic breast in a spicy sandwich? Join us as we embark on a culinary expedition, tasting our way through the spicy chicken sandwich landscape, with a side of light-hearted banter about our own quirky food rules and preferences. Bryan even reveals his unexpected take on the age-old tater tots versus french fries debate, firing up a discussion on how personal tastes can lead to surprising conversations and revelations. But it's not all about the chicken—we're sipping on "hustler juice" and diving headfirst into the indulgent world of Taco Bell's larger-than-life offerings. As we reminisce about Glenn Bell's legacy and the evolution of our fast-food favorites, we also find ourselves reflecting on our dietary convictions. From Starbucks customization to the pull of default choices, we uncover the philosophy buried in our everyday fast food experiences, sharing laughs and insights along the way. Time to switch gears and talk time—how we perceive it, how it shapes us, and how, sometimes, it downright confuses us. From the linear progression of events to the cyclical patterns in life and the universe, we navigate through the philosophical and psychological mazes of time. We touch on COVID-19 as our new temporal milestone and even dip our toes into the effects of relativity on time, ensuring our listeners leave with their minds buzzing and perhaps, just maybe, a new way to view their next chicken sandwich.

Discover the art of culinary reinvention and personal growth as we take a whimsical journey from kitchen to character development. This episode is a veritable feast for the soul, steeped in the rich broth of history and spiced with the zest of self-improvement. Gather 'round as I recount transforming holiday leftovers into a delightful ham and corn chowder, a tradition rooted in the pragmatic gastronomy of the Great Depression. Then, we'll meander through the curious alleys of perpetual stews and nursery rhymes, finding resourcefulness in the most unexpected places. Taking a break from the simmering pot, our conversation shifts to the exploration of life's flavors and fears. I'll share my offbeat encounter with buffalo wing soda and a chili that’s a symphony of chocolate, cinnamon, and beans, challenging the palate with the unexpected. We'll also dive into the essence of motivation, arming ourselves with strategies like 'fear setting' to confront our trepidations head-on. Listen as I detail a Toastmasters Club experience that proves with a plan in hand, the once-daunting task of facing our fears becomes a well-chartered journey. As we near the end of our time together, we don't shy away from the weightier ingredients of life's stew. We tackle the overarching struggle with burnout, perfectionism, and aligning work with values, stirring in anecdotes and insights to motivate and ground you. The episode is ladled with pearls of wisdom on managing overwhelm, the fortitude of support systems, and the significance of gratitude. There's no recipe too complex, no ambition too grand, as we serve up a blend of nourishing thoughts and energizing encouragement to inspire your next steps, both in the kitchen and beyond.

Ever found yourself meticulously perfecting a breakfast biscuit, only to have it spark dreams of your own eatery? That's exactly where our conversation starts in our latest episode, as we whisk you away on a gastronomic and philosophical quest, revealing the simple joys and aspirations that can arise from the kitchen. Join us as we sip on the curiosity of a root beer-flavored ancient mushroom elixir and muse over the significance of hydration in our daily lives—because every dreamer needs to stay quenched. Struggling with motivation can feel like an endless battle, but we're here to navigate these choppy waters together. Our chat meanders from eco-conscious choices like going straw-free to the siren call of French fries, sharing laughs and confessions along the way. We lay bare the challenges of staying driven, whether it's the year-end blues or the daunting leap to decaf. Through stories and insights, we aim to offer comfort and strategies for those feeling stuck in the same rut. As our episode unfolds, we explore the transformative powers of habit formation and the subtle art of patience in personal growth. Our journey isn't just about reaching the destination—it's also about embracing the small, daily actions that culminate in triumphs over time. So tune in, as we extend an invitation to continue this exploration in future episodes, with the promise of uncovering more strategies to fuel your drive and keep you moving forward.

Ready to spice up your food palette? We kick off the episode by teleporting your taste buds to the vibrant flavors of Cajun and Creole cuisine, courtesy of a Zatarain's frozen meal. As I (the host) savor this satisfying delight, we journey through the rich history of these culinary styles and share why hydration plays a crucial role in your daily life. As we glide into the holiday spirit, we unravel the psychology behind gift-giving during celebratory occasions such as Christmas, Diwali, and Hanukkah. What's the story behind your generosity? We shine a spotlight on the interplay between gratitude and giving, nudging you to acknowledge the smallest acts of kindness that often go unnoticed. For the volunteers among us, we delve into recognizing and thanking you for your contributions, whether big or small. We round off the episode by expressing our gratitude to you, our listeners. Your engagement and feedback are what keep us going, so don't hesitate to drop us an email with your suggestions for future topics. As we look forward to 2024, we promise an hour of captivating content per episode, designed to inspire and arouse your curiosity. So, join us as we continue to explore various facets of life, culture, and more in our upcoming episodes!