Advertise on podcast: Broken Tiles

Send us a text A surf session sets the scene, but the real swell arrives when Kyle Thiermann walks us through the most important interview most of us will ever do: the one with our parents. We dig into why audio carries truth better than text or video, how a single saved voicemail can become an heirloom, and what happens when you trade the role of child for the role of journalist. The shift is simple and brave—ask specific questions, stop litigating memories, and let people talk long enough to show who they are. Kyle shares the backbone of his new book—a personal arc of losing a close relationship to fringe thinking, then rebuilding it through conversation. Along the way, we explore the psychology of conspiracy status, the fallibility of memory, and the practical ways to record stories before silence arrives. The tactics are refreshingly doable: schedule a drive, turn phones off, press record, and start with one pointed question tailored to a parent’s quirks. We also look at how podcasting changes us as hosts, moving attention outward and shrinking the ego in the best way. From river surfing in Montana to the limits of going left at Windansea, we tie craft to discipline and revisit the myth of rare talent. Kyle argues for compound practice—one honest hour a day—as the real engine behind great work, whether that’s writing, photography, or building a stronger family narrative. We don’t pretend to solve everything, but we do offer a rope bridge across isolation: story, presence, and small acts of sustained attention. If you’re ready to ask braver questions and capture the voices that shaped you, you’ll leave with both courage and a plan. If this conversation moved you, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review. Then ask one specific question at your next family call and tell us what you learned. Support the show

Send us a text A courthouse makes it legal—but a room full of people who love you? That’s what makes it feel like a marriage. In this episode of The Broken Tiles Podcast, Stacey and Brian return from Syracuse, where their son’s eleven-year love story turned into one of the most joy-filled, grounded celebrations they’ve ever experienced—grandmas waving glow sticks. Cousins laughing like no time had passed. Two families folding into each other in a way that felt both official and beautifully easy. Brian had the honor of officiating the ceremony—nontraditional, deeply personal, and written for a couple who don’t do religion but do believe in meaning, daily choice, and the kind of love that shows up in the everyday. (Yes, there was a hidden Lord of the Rings reference. And yes, only one sibling caught it.) They reflect on what happens when estranged relatives reunite after twenty years—not to rehash the past, but to quietly begin again. They talk about why this wedding felt different, and how years of shared milestones—graduations, birthdays, cross-country visits—had already blended their families long before the music started. After a long absence from podcasting, Brian offers a heartfelt apology to the entire country of Venezuela.....on Stacey’s behalf.  The episode also explores three relationship questions they posed to each other:  – What’s the most unexpected thing about being with me?  – I love you most when __________.  – And the one that stumped them both: Choose five words to describe my future that I don’t dare imagine. They unpack how long-term couples stay connected: through small rituals, simple language, and navigating the quiet toll of sleep loss and mental spinning. They revisit how parenting reshaped their views on gender, why they chose gender-neutral names, and how their kids’ different life paths challenged assumptions they didn’t realize they had. To close things out, they share their love for K-dramas like Castaway Diva and Extraordinary Attorney Woo—soft, smart, emotionally generous shows that forced them to slow down and reset. If you're in the mood for a thoughtful, funny, grounded listen about weddings that heal, families that try again, and the questions that get under the surface—this one’s for you. Press play, then share your answers to the big questions—or the bridge you’re thinking about rebuilding. And don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and pass this along to someone who loves a good reunion story. Support the show

Send us a text What happens when a lightning bolt of inspiration hits you at 30,000 feet? For Russ Rogers, it transformed him from landscaper and personal trainer into a children's book author and movement creator dedicated to reconnecting families through physical activity. In this heartfelt conversation, Russ takes us from his childhood on a Modesto farm to his college baseball career at Cal Poly Pomona, where influential coaches helped shape his life philosophy. His journey winds through coaching softball at Bethany University, where he learned a powerful lesson: his least talented team won the most games because they were unified, while his most talented team struggled due to division. This insight about human connection would later fuel his mission. The true magic happens when Russ shares the origin story of Move Today 365. After carrying an empty journal for over a year, a mysterious "download" experience on a flight to New York compelled him to write for hours, capturing ideas about movement and family connection. Through a chance meeting with a publisher at a birthday party (one of many serendipitous moments in his journey), these musings evolved into a series of children's books encouraging families to disconnect from devices and reconnect with each other through outdoor activities. Russ's authentic passion resonates throughout as he discusses his upcoming wellness event "Impact Santa Cruz Today" and his newest books—"Unplugged" and "Imagine If"—that extend his mission beyond physical movement into intentional living. His story reminds us that staying open to unexpected opportunities and embracing intentionality can lead to profound personal fulfillment and positive community impact.  Listen for a dose of inspiration that might just move you to close your laptop, put down your phone, and rediscover the joy of being present with those you love. Support the show

Send us a text Filmed right from Marco’s home on the North Shore of Hawaii—right in the middle of the Pipe Masters competition—this special video episode of Broken Tiles gives us a rare, behind-the-scenes look at a 34-year marriage, all sparked by three deceptively simple questions. The first one—"What would you never have done without me?"—opens the door to some eye-opening confessions. Brian admits he might never have fully "gotten his shit together" without Stacey’s influence, while she realizes she would never have experienced the slower pace of northern New York—an unexpected but perfect setting to raise their kids. And then there's the hilarious revelation: Stacey would have never, ever used a bidet in a public bathroom if not for Brian’s, uh, strong endorsement. That story somehow leads to a highly entertaining breakdown of their morning adventure hunting for Portuguese malasadas (aka delicious donuts) in Waikiki. When they dive into each other’s "favorite imperfections," things get even more interesting. Stacey loves how Brian—who's always giving advice about balance and mindfulness—sometimes completely loses his own zen. Meanwhile, Brian gets a kick out of Stacey’s ever-changing approach in the kitchen, which has somehow led to an amusing role reversal. Their different worldviews come into focus when they answer which historical event they’d love to witness: Brian picks the Big Bang, Stacey goes for the sinking of the Titanic. (Interpret that how you will.) But the most touching moment? When they call out each other’s hidden "superpowers." Brian’s got razor-sharp comedic timing—despite thinking he just yells to be funny—and Stacey has this natural ability to make people instantly feel at home. And, of course, their dog Mija steals the show, constantly interrupting and nearly taking down the podcast equipment in the process. So, what would your partner say if you asked them these questions? Listen now, then try it for yourself—you might be surprised at what you learn. Support the show

Send us a text What happens when you stop trying to control everything and start setting boundaries for yourself? Join us on the Broken Tiles Podcast as we explore the nuanced journey of personal growth and therapy, seasoned with our signature humor and introspection. Discover the delicate dance between guiding and letting go, especially from a parental perspective, while pondering the motivations behind our need to control outcomes. Engage with us in a discussion that blends heartfelt insight and playful banter, encouraging reflection on compassion, self-preservation, and the art of establishing boundaries.  Relationships are complex, and the intricacies of codependency add another layer to this complexity. We dive into the implications of codependency with children, friends, and partners, shedding light on the draining nature of emotional vampires and how to manage our time with them. With a nod to the whimsical, we venture into the world of music genres and how they humorously reflect our personalities. From "alt-indie twang" to the soulful vibes of 80s music, we share a light-hearted exchange that captures the essence of our personal characteristics through music.  Mistakes can be unexpected gifts wrapped in life's challenges. We share personal and business stories where unforeseen events led to profound insights. From the delightful surprise of an "oops baby" to lessons learned from a breach of trust, we reveal how such experiences can reshape our understanding of what's truly important. Our conversation meanders through recurring dreams and the balance between freedom and order, ultimately tying together themes of anxiety, creativity, and self-discovery. Join us for an episode that promises both thought-provoking discussions and moments of levity. Support the show

Send us a text Ever thought about how a Nerf gun fight could actually bring you and your partner closer? Well, in the latest episode of the Broken Tiles Podcast, we kick things off with some exciting news—brand-new, professionally produced music and a top-notch recording setup to make your listening experience even better. Plus, we’re celebrating a major health milestone that’s made a huge difference in our lives. Join us as we look back on how this podcast went from a fun scratch-off challenge to a regular date night ritual, with nearly 20,000 downloads. Oh, and we’ve got some new question games lined up to keep things interesting! Hosting vs. being hosted?—it’s trickier than it seems. We share some personal stories about the comfort of being in familiar spaces, the juggling act of hosting duties, and how social anxiety can really shape our interactions. This episode is all about our journey toward being more open and the real connections we’ve made along the way. We also get into the emotional (and often invisible) load that women carry, throw in a lighthearted review of a rom-com, and introduce the Adventure Challenge Connection Cards for couples. Plus, we relive a fun scratch-off dare involving a Nerf gun fight and even imagine what each other’s online dating profiles would look like. To wrap it all up, we chat about the importance of self-care, especially in motherhood, and the challenges of OCD and compulsive behaviors. This episode is packed with personal growth, advocacy, and a whole lot of playfulness in our relationship. You won’t want to miss it! Support the show

Send us a text When family gathers around the table, the conversation often turns to stories that tug at the heartstrings. Our latest episode is a tapestry of such tales, woven with threads of forgiveness, personal growth, and the evolving dynamics of relationships. With our son Bailey sharing his journey to self-forgiveness in the unforgiving job market, and Kenzi opening up about coming to terms with her father's actions, we bring you intimate narratives that resonate with the challenges many of us face. Guest appearances from cousin Megan and her husband Ryan enrich the dialogue with varied perspectives on conflict resolution and the healing power of understanding. Keeping in touch might seem as easy as a text message, but it's the heartfelt efforts that count, such as the monthly calls and support during life's unexpected trials that truly fortify our bonds. Our conversation flows from earnest accounts of connection to bursts of spontaneity in a lightning round that challenges each guest to define 'the good life.' Laughter erupts as we balance the weight of our discussion with lighter moments, and the episode takes an impromptu twist when Tayler, Aynsley & Jack dial in from a stranded highway in Colorado, proving that life's surprises often lead to the most memorable stories. Wrapping up, we tackle the nuts and bolts of motivation and persuasion, sharing our unique approaches to coaxing out that inner drive when faced with daunting tasks. From Megan's value-driven method to Ryan's dance with deadlines, each story peels back the layers on how we inspire action in ourselves and others. And as if to prove that whimsy has a place even in the most profound discussions, we let our imaginations wander through the enchanting worlds of Hogwarts and faraway galaxies, before Normani's unexpected serenade reminds us of the joy found in life's serendipitous moments. Join us for an episode that's as unpredictable and delightful as the community we cherish. Support the show

Send us a text As Stacey unveils the chapters of her wellness journey, overcoming Mal de Debarquement, we're reminded that health is a dance requiring precision and grace. She shares how a blend of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes has turned her life's tempo from chaotic to harmonious. Brian and I also lay our cards on the table—quite literally—with "The And" game, sparking raw and honest conversations about our mutual concerns. It's like peering into a mirror together, facing the reflections of our deepest worries and finding strength in the vulnerability of our shared truths. Money talks, but in relationships, it can sometimes yell. We wade into the mire of financial transparency, sharing tales from our own partnership's ledger to illustrate the profound connection between fiscal openness and emotional security. We're candid about our past financial faux pas and how they've shaped our bond, highlighting that talking about money isn't just about numbers—it's about the values and trust we build in our relationships. As the conversation unfurls, we consider society's magnifying glass on wealth and how this focus might shift the dynamics of future connections. Finally, we muse on the lessons that time imparts. The books of Noah Harari have been a surprising catalyst for our nightly discussions, serving as a bridge between waking thoughts and dreams. In the echoes of 'A Gentleman in Moscow,' we see the resilience of the human spirit, a reminder that even in solitude, we're interconnected. As we share anecdotes of personal growth and the intricate interplay with those we love, it's clear that each chapter of life, whether we'd rewrite it or not, is a page in the story that shapes us. Join us on this journey through the layers of health, wealth, and the human condition, as we uncover the continuous learning curve of life. Support the show

Send us a text Ever felt ensnared in a relationship dispute and wished you had the perfect resolution strategy at your fingertips? Or found yourself struggling to comfort a loved one in their darkest hour? We're back on the airwaves after a hiatus, and ready to share our explorations into these complex topics, offering you insights and practical advice to navigate these tricky terrains. Join Brian and Stacey as we relive cherished childhood memories, share updates on Stacey's health journey with Mal de Debarquement syndrome, and even delve into a riveting review of the feminist-themed TV show "Lessons in Chemistry." Have you ever grappled with the subtle yet profound difference between feeling safe and secure? We did too. Our discussion uncovers how these emotions intertwine with our ability to be honest with ourselves and others. We examine how childhood experiences shape our sense of safety and influence our relationships. But it's not all heavy topics - we also lighten the mood with a fun game using our new box of conversation starters and a scratch-off date DIY salsa lesson for couples! So whether you're looking for insights into effective conflict resolution, seeking advice on comforting a loved one, or just want a laugh, this episode of the Broken Tiles podcast has something for you. Tune in for a rich array of topics, thoughtful discussions, and some fun.  Support the show

Send us a text Stacey & Brian climb back in front of the mics for a wavy episode.  Topics range from Stacey's battle with  Mal De Debarquement Syndrome, choosing a single song to be played during intimacy for the rest of eternity, looking deeply into each others eyes.  Musical Guests : A-Ha , Lewis Capaldi & Lady GaGa  Support the show

Send us a text Brian sits down in the middle of the Pacific Ocean with his closest friend and discusses a terminal cancer diagnosis, Denver Broncos Football, raising kids, marriage, faith, masturbation, the apocalypse, strip clubs, poker, Paris, Tahiti and the unforeseen gift and perspective that the terminal diagnosis has provided..... Support the show

Send us a text Season 2 !  Stacey & Brian are back at it for a second season of the podcast.  Questions :  Do you have any friends you would consider family ?  What decisions have you made that have had positive outcomes on your life ?  What do you now that you wish you had learnt earlier in life ? This question Stacey read incorrectly and broke the time space continuum that stops the flow of the show for a solid 8 minutes.  Brian discusses the hidden dangers of grey meat. ( Related Topics Include : Crapping ones pants whilst throwing up at the same time )  Stacey reveals an adorable childhood crush that  upon further  review reveals he was a great singer...  Brian's crush (s) drop the show to new lows. Movie Review : Megan  Musical Guests : Stick Figure, Shaun Cassidy, Madonna.  Support the show

Send us a text Brian & Stacey drop a special episode reviewing Jonah Hill's documentary "Stutz".  Stutz's tools offer a solution to the biggest complaint patients have about therapy: the wait for change to begin. Netflix Summary :  "In Stutz, Hill talks at length about how his therapist's ideas and teachings changed his life. The process wasn't linear and, Hill says, his work will never be over, but once he learned the Tools, he says he could finally enjoy, accept and confront anything that came at him in this life."  Support the show

Send us a text Brian & Stacey work through a recent fight. Questions range from what main improvements they have made in the relationship over the years and what path they need to take to improve going forward.  They review "Book of Mormon" eleven years late.  Brian has a question that eliminates two southern states  ... Musical Guests : Stick Figure, The Wrecks &  A-Ha  Support the show

Send us a text Stacey & Brian are back and the questions range from how they work through conflict, special places they want to show each other and if they are actually comfortable  talking to each other.  Stacey talks survival of her first California Earthquake and the date challenge has Brian thinking he is going to use sidewalk chalk to graffiti their complexes parking lot.  The Broken Tiles Review is "The Watcher" on Netflix.  Musical guests include : Stick Figure, A-Ha, Big Joe Turner  Support the show