Diner Talks With James

Today I was joined in the diner booth by leadership consultant and owner of Becky’s Mindful Kitchen, Becky Schmooke. Becky, her wonderful sarcasm, and I dove in discussing popcorn in bed and Minnesota diners.  We then talked about what she wanted to be when she grew up and how she got to meet both Michelle Kwan and Jill Biden (but didn’t realize it was her).  From figure skating to playing the cello to running cross country, Becky has had no shortage of interests. It was cool to hear her talk about her theory that winners quit. She then told me about what mindfulness means to her, and I was surprised by her answer! Lastly, we dove into her passion for stoicism and how it shows up in both her daily life, teaching, and leadership consulting work.  Lots of laughs throughout this one and some pretty great insights. Enjoy!

About the Guest: 

The year was 1987, the month January, and as the sun rose on the final day of the first week of the new year, a blessed baby was born over looking the Pacific Ocean… no? Not the bio you were looking for?

Okay… take two Becky Schmooke is the founder, owner, goat wrangler and dishwasher of Becky’s Mindful Kitchen. A cooking school in the Midwest that has evolved into a truly one of a kind countryside escape and home to summer camps, leadership retreats, mindfulness workshops, and bachelorette parties.

After 10 years of studying mindfulness, leadership and stoic philosophy, she now focuses on mindful leadership consulting and speaking, helping organizations find simple and effective ways to integrate her mindful leadership systems into their workplace and personal lives. Becky has started speaking in schools about mental health and mindful leadership and teaches mindful parenting from a leadership perspective. 

Cooking still remains and will forever remain a part of BMK, from kid classes to corporate team building- the skills learned in the kitchen extend beyond the table.

Breeding goats and contending with 60 plus hens means life here is never dull. With a vet supply shelves stocked full, Becky has had to deal with a multitude of goat and chicken emergencies. She also splits her own wood, uses a chainsaw, teaches archery and fire starting, makes soaps and candles and skin care products to gift to people. Other fun facts, she has 2 bio daughters, 1 bonus daughter, Married, Type 1 diabetic and has almost died a few times!

Connect with Becky and learn more:

https://beckysmindfulkitchen.com

https://www.facebook.com/beckysmindfulkitchen/

https://www.instagram.com/beckysmindfulkitchen/

About the Host: 

Friends! Here's a somewhat stuffy bio of me:  

I am an author, professional speaker, coach, host, and entrepreneur. My first book, Leading Imperfectly: The value of being authentic for leaders, professionals, and human beings, is available wherever people buy books. I speak internationally to willing and unwilling attendees about authenticity, vulnerability, and leadership. My clients include American Express, General Electric (GE), Accenture, Yale University, The Ohio State University, and many others. As a speaker, I am doing the two things I loves the most: making people think and making people laugh! 

I host my own events multiple times a year. They are 2-day events called Living Imperfectly Live (and sometimes they are 1-day virtual events). They are a space where humans from every walk of life can come together to be part of a community on the pursuit of badassery. The goal is to help attendees start living the life we say we want to live.

Alas, you're here because of an idea I had a number of years ago and didn't think I was good enough to pull it off. I finally acted on it and alas Diner Talks with James was born! As you can see from what I do in my professional life, Diner Talks is alligned with everything I believe in and teach.  If this wasn't dry enough, and you would like to know more info about my speaking, events, or coaching feel free to check out my website: JamesTRobo.com.

Let’s Be Friends on Social Media!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamestrobo

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamestrobo

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesrobilotta/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/JamesRobilottaCSP

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/JamesTRobo

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from the listeners are extremely valuable to me and greatly appreciated. They help Diner Talks podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, it would mean the world if you couple leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Today I was joined by storyteller and activist, Ferene Paris Meyer.  This episode was humorous and heartfelt as Ferene shared about her experience growing up in a family of Haitian immigrants and how that shaped her current world.  She spoke about her awakening and coming alive as a proud Haitian woman and how she dove into her culture through food, language, and experiences in Haiti.  She also shared about how this ultimately led to her leaving her toxic workplace to start a business of her own, which centers around manifesting opportunities to have heartfelt inspirational moments. Ferene is honest, powerful, thoughtful, and someone you want to spend hours within The Diner – you’re not going to want to miss this episode.

*CONTENT WARNING* This episode includes stories of experiencing racism and hate crimes. 

About the Guest: 

Ferene Paris Meyer (she/her) is a radiant Haitian Queen who is here to live out loud and love deeply! Storyteller & Founder for All Heart Inspirations (est. 2020). Ferene create heart-centered spaces through storytelling workshops, community engagements, culinary art, and more! Why is storytelling her jam?! It saved her life. She was questioning many things, including her life's purpose and self-worth. The art of storytelling would help Ferene make meaning of her lived experiences, be open to new dreams, let go of past expectations, take a leap of faith, manifest awesome shit and more! She is her ancestors’ wildest dreams. And it all started with her finally being honest with herself and those that cared for her, Ferene was not okay back in Fall 2019, but she was rewritten her story! 

Connect with Ferene and learn more:

https://instagram.com/allheartinspirations

https://www.allheartinspirations.com

https://linktr.ee/ALLHEARTINSPIRATIONS

About the Host: 

Friends! Here's a somewhat stuffy bio of me:  

I am an author, professional speaker, coach, host, and entrepreneur. My first book, Leading Imperfectly: The value of being authentic for leaders, professionals, and human beings, is available wherever people buy books. I speak internationally to willing and unwilling attendees about authenticity, vulnerability, and leadership. My clients include American Express, General Electric (GE), Accenture, Yale University, The Ohio State University, and many others. As a speaker, I am doing the two things I loves the most: making people think and making people laugh! 

I host my own events multiple times a year. They are 2-day events called Living Imperfectly Live (and sometimes they are 1-day virtual events). They are a space where humans from every walk of life can come together to be part of a community on the pursuit of badassery. The goal is to help attendees start living the life we say we want to live.

Alas, you're here because of an idea I had a number of years ago and didn't think I was good enough to pull it off. I finally acted on it and alas Diner Talks with James was born! As you can see from what I do in my professional life, Diner Talks is alligned with everything I believe in and teach.  If this wasn't dry enough, and you would like to know more info about my speaking, events, or coaching feel free to check out my website: JamesTRobo.com.

Let’s Be Friends on Social Media!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamestrobo

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamestrobo

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesrobilotta/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/JamesRobilottaCSP

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/JamesTRobo

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from the listeners are extremely valuable to me and greatly appreciated. They help Diner Talks podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, it would mean the world if you couple leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

My dear friend, Leslie Meisel, joins me this week in the diner.  She is an actor who has appeared on Broad City, RISE, Difficult People, and a director.  Recently she has also become a practicing reiki master! We talked about whether you should order steak at a diner and a fun quirk about her related to Grease 2. I loved hearing about how Leslie’s acting dreams started and the mental ups and downs of trying to pursue it.  We then reminisced about one of the most random jobs either of us has ever had when we worked for The Ride in Times Square. We then shifted to a powerful talk about Leslie’s transition from doing more acting/directing work to doing more spiritual and healing work.  Leslie now does Reiki and I had no idea what that is so I got an education!  What a beautiful, funny, and sincere episode; please enjoy it with a side of fries!

About the Guest: 

Leslie Meisel is a Certified Reiki Practitioner (attuned by Joan Volpe PH.D, Reiki Master, Shaman). She is also an actor, writer, director, teacher and in college worked at a bowling alley thinking it would be exactly like Grease 2*..........................it wasn't.

Leslie came to discover Reiki through her own healing journey about 10 years ago when working with Joan. Once she saw the benefits of this method in her own life, learning the art became a wonderful passion and mission to assist others in achieving healing in their own lives.

As far as the acting/directing/writing part of Leslie's life, she was previously co-host of the monthly show COUPLES SKATE at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre NY, a cast member on the UCB house team CHARACTERS WELCOME (Season 1 & 2). On screen, Leslie has worked with Ed Burns, Michael Imperioli, Dane DeHaan, and appeared on the NBC show RISE, Difficult People, Broad City, Netflix’s The Characters, and the feature film Bachelorette (w/Rebel Wilson & Kirsten Dunst). 

As a director, she has worked on many shows at the UCB Theatre, including AzN Pop!: Live in Concert!, All In Favor, United Federation of Teachers with Natasha Vaynblatt (IFC, Funny or Die, McSeeney’s), co-directed Stone Cold Fox: Sexy Idiots with Aaron Burdette, (Man Seeking Woman, The Onion), several Maude sketch teams, co-director/writer of He Said She Said with Kate Riley-Zelensky (MTV, Two Guys Named Josh) and worked with Bridge & Tunnel‘s staged show for Montreal’s Just For Laughs Festival (Kristen Bartlett; Full Frontal with Samantha Bee).  

*Leslie is one of many "Martys" who always wanted to be a "Rizzo"... which is why she may think that Grease 2 is MUCH better than Grease.

Connect with Leslie and learn more:

http://www.lesliemeisel.com(website)

@meiselellis (Instagram)

https://www.northportwellnesscenter.com/practitioner/leslie-ellis-reiki (reiki)

About the Host: 

Friends! Here's a somewhat stuffy bio of me:  

I am an author, professional speaker, coach, host, and entrepreneur. My first book, Leading Imperfectly: The value of being authentic for leaders, professionals, and human beings, is available wherever people buy books. I speak internationally to willing and unwilling attendees about authenticity, vulnerability, and leadership. My clients include American Express, General Electric (GE), Accenture, Yale University, The Ohio State University, and many others. As a speaker, I am doing the two things I loves the most: making people think and making people laugh! 

I host my own events multiple times a year. They are 2-day events called Living Imperfectly Live (and sometimes they are 1-day virtual events). They are a space where humans from every walk of life can come together to be part of a community on the pursuit of badassery. The goal is to help attendees start living the life we say we want to live.

Alas, you're here because of an idea I had a number of years ago and didn't think I was good enough to pull it off. I finally acted on it and alas Diner Talks with James was born! As you can see from what I do in my professional life, Diner Talks is alligned with everything I believe in and teach.  If this wasn't dry enough, and you would like to know more info about my speaking, events, or coaching feel free to check out my website: JamesTRobo.com.

Let’s Be Friends on Social Media!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamestrobo

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamestrobo

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesrobilotta/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/JamesRobilottaCSP

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/JamesTRobo

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from the listeners are extremely valuable to me and greatly appreciated. They help Diner Talks podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, it would mean the world if you couple leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

My man Odell Bizzell II slid into the diner booth with me this week.  He and I have known each other for a number of years from the speaker circuit and I have always respected his hustle. We talked about how he and I travel differently and why he typically spends all of his time on the road in the hotel.  He told me some of the powerful lessons he father taught him growing up black in Guilford County, North Carolina.  I loved hearing about how he chose to go NC State as opposed to an HBCU (Historically Black College/University).  We talked about where his hustler’s mindset comes from, how he has written 10 books, and what fuels him.  He and Stan Pearson III are creating a brand new association in the higher education space called NAMCA. The last thing we discussed was how to get out of your own way and learn how to market yourself and your strengths.

About the Guest: 

Odell Bizzell is Andy & Doris's first born. Christine's favorite. Sierra's husband. Makayla, Raine, & Will's Dad. After all of that Odell is a master marketer, super communicator, and a professional speaker author and coach to thousands all over the planet.  He was voted Guilford County's 85th funniest person in a random study,  Odell's career has spanned close to 15 years as a speaker, writer, podcast host.  He is the self-proclaimed greatest basketball player/rapper/speaker/published author in the history of the world.

Connect with Odell and learn more:

https://www.odellspeaks.com/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/odellbizzell/

About the Host: 

Friends! Here's a somewhat stuffy bio of me:  

I am an author, professional speaker, coach, host, and entrepreneur. My first book, Leading Imperfectly: The value of being authentic for leaders, professionals, and human beings, is available wherever people buy books. I speak internationally to willing and unwilling attendees about authenticity, vulnerability, and leadership. My clients include American Express, General Electric (GE), Accenture, Yale University, The Ohio State University, and many others. As a speaker, I am doing the two things I loves the most: making people think and making people laugh! 

I host my own events multiple times a year. They are 2-day events called Living Imperfectly Live (and sometimes they are 1-day virtual events). They are a space where humans from every walk of life can come together to be part of a community on the pursuit of badassery. The goal is to help attendees start living the life we say we want to live.

Alas, you're here because of an idea I had a number of years ago and didn't think I was good enough to pull it off. I finally acted on it and alas Diner Talks with James was born! As you can see from what I do in my professional life, Diner Talks is alligned with everything I believe in and teach.  If this wasn't dry enough, and you would like to know more info about my speaking, events, or coaching feel free to check out my website: JamesTRobo.com.

Let’s Be Friends on Social Media!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamestrobo

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamestrobo

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesrobilotta/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/JamesRobilottaCSP

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/JamesTRobo

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from the listeners are extremely valuable to me and greatly appreciated. They help Diner Talks podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, it would mean the world if you couple leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

This week in the diner I had a thoughtful and vulnerable conversation with Survivor and CEO of Candle In A Dark Room, Desi Garcia.  Desi shared her gripping and heart-wrenching story of surviving childhood physical and sexual violence. She told the story of how she turned her “mess into her message” and how she felt called to help other survivors and families of survivors to cope and restore their power. She shared about her podcast and her foundation and the dreams she has for what it can become. Desi’s strength and fortitude are profound and inspiring, and I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to listen and learn from her.

*CONTENT WARNING* This episode includes stories of trauma, child physical and sexual violence, bullying, stalking, and suicide. Resources can be found at: https://www.candleinadarkroom.com/

About the Guest: 

Desi Garcia is a mom, wife, survivor, advocate, counselor, crisis worker, trauma expert, podcaster & public speaker, I am the CEO/Founder of Candle in a Dark Room (CIADR). I am a survivor of child physical and sexual abuse. 

CIADR now offers many things. We help survivors of physical and sexual trauma, as well as mental health that stems from trauma. We also help with other trauma such as grief, adoption and more. She now goes to court with victims around the country to face their perpetrators in court, I help prepare them before, support them during, and offer long term help after. I help survivors take their power back, and start the proper steps of healing through their trauma.

Connect with Desi and learn more:

https://www.candleinadarkroom.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/candleinadarkroom/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/candleinadarkroom/?hl=en

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/candle-in-a-dark-room-podcast/id1454847769

About the Host: 

Friends! Here's a somewhat stuffy bio of me:  

I am an author, professional speaker, coach, host, and entrepreneur. My first book, Leading Imperfectly: The value of being authentic for leaders, professionals, and human beings, is available wherever people buy books. I speak internationally to willing and unwilling attendees about authenticity, vulnerability, and leadership. My clients include American Express, General Electric (GE), Accenture, Yale University, The Ohio State University, and many others. As a speaker, I am doing the two things I loves the most: making people think and making people laugh! 

I host my own events multiple times a year. They are 2-day events called Living Imperfectly Live (and sometimes they are 1-day virtual events). They are a space where humans from every walk of life can come together to be part of a community on the pursuit of badassery. The goal is to help attendees start living the life we say we want to live.

Alas, you're here because of an idea I had a number of years ago and didn't think I was good enough to pull it off. I finally acted on it and alas Diner Talks with James was born! As you can see from what I do in my professional life, Diner Talks is alligned with everything I believe in and teach.  If this wasn't dry enough, and you would like to know more info about my speaking, events, or coaching feel free to check out my website: JamesTRobo.com.

Let’s Be Friends on Social Media!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamestrobo

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamestrobo

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesrobilotta/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/JamesRobilottaCSP

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/JamesTRobo

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from the listeners are extremely valuable to me and greatly appreciated. They help Diner Talks podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, it would mean the world if you couple leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

You can skip today’s cup of coffee because today’s guest – Ernee Peppers – has enough energy for all of us.  Ernie has an electric and contagious personality and will inspire you to drop your baggage and step into your badassery. Todays episode centered around the power of forgiveness and the gift that is for yourself. Ernee shared about some trauma she faced in childhood and how freeing it was to forgive the person who caused that trauma and how that opened up her life. This conversation was so inspiring and I’m so grateful that Ernee showed up with her whole damn self.  If you find yourself holding on to something from your past, this episode is for you.

About the Guest: 

Ernee Peppers is a high hair wearin, high heel steppin, high energy givin, sashay walkin, sassy talkin Bold Badass Hot Pepper, is here to sizzle up your confidence and WOW up your life with her signature authentic girlfriend style type of conversations with a side order of gut-busting laughs. In her own words, “I will fart, piss and cry at the same time when I’m startled, hate eggs, love humor, and a cus word or two.”   Ernee is an award-Winning talk show host, speaker, author, actress, entertainer, coach, and entrepreneur and, more importantly, a wife, mom, sister, and friend. 

Connect with Ernee and learn more:

FB: https://www.facebook.com/Mrs.ErneePeppers

IG: https://www.instagram.com/theerneepeppersshow

Book: www.mrspeppersplaybook.com

About the Host: 

Friends! Here's a somewhat stuffy bio of me:  

I am an author, professional speaker, coach, host, and entrepreneur. My first book, Leading Imperfectly: The value of being authentic for leaders, professionals, and human beings, is available wherever people buy books. I speak internationally to willing and unwilling attendees about authenticity, vulnerability, and leadership. My clients include American Express, General Electric (GE), Accenture, Yale University, The Ohio State University, and many others. As a speaker, I am doing the two things I loves the most: making people think and making people laugh! 

I host my own events multiple times a year. They are 2-day events called Living Imperfectly Live (and sometimes they are 1-day virtual events). They are a space where humans from every walk of life can come together to be part of a community on the pursuit of badassery. The goal is to help attendees start living the life we say we want to live.

Alas, you're here because of an idea I had a number of years ago and didn't think I was good enough to pull it off. I finally acted on it and alas Diner Talks with James was born! As you can see from what I do in my professional life, Diner Talks is alligned with everything I believe in and teach.  If this wasn't dry enough, and you would like to know more info about my speaking, events, or coaching feel free to check out my website: JamesTRobo.com.

Let’s Be Friends on Social Media!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamestrobo

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamestrobo

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesrobilotta/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/JamesRobilottaCSP

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/JamesTRobo

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from the listeners are extremely valuable to me and greatly appreciated. They help Diner Talks podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, it would mean the world if you couple leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Today we’re kickin’ it in the Diner with your new friend and mine, Jake Kelfer. He’s an incredible entrepreneur who shared story after story about how he would bet on himself and keep pushing and trusting his ideas until they either came to fruition or failed. He shared about massive successes – writing a bestselling book and starting an NBA draft combine – as well as a failure in an online course he created that flopped.  Our conversation centered around audacity and confidence and what to do with fear and the stories that creep into our head that are less than helpful. He has a cool blend of confidence and humility and I loved when he said, “if I can make it through life with more assists than turnovers, I’m going to be all right.”  If you’re an entrepreneur or someone who’s trying to put something new out into the world, this episode is for you.

About the Guest: 

Jake Kelfer is a lifestyle entrepreneur, life elevator, and coach to ambitious entrepreneurs and freedom seekers helping people create incredibly impactful and profitable businesses. He is a 3x bestselling author, a high-energy motivational speaker, and the founder of the Professional Basketball Combine which has helped 70+ NBA draft prospects turn their dreams of playing pro basketball into their reality. He and his work have been featured on Forbes, Sports Illustrated, ESPN, and many other major media outlets. Connect with Jake on social @jakekelfer!

Connect with Jake and learn more:

@jakekelfer

About the Host: 

Friends! Here's a somewhat stuffy bio of me:  

I am an author, professional speaker, coach, host, and entrepreneur. My first book, Leading Imperfectly: The value of being authentic for leaders, professionals, and human beings, is available wherever people buy books. I speak internationally to willing and unwilling attendees about authenticity, vulnerability, and leadership. My clients include American Express, General Electric (GE), Accenture, Yale University, The Ohio State University, and many others. As a speaker, I am doing the two things I loves the most: making people think and making people laugh! 

I host my own events multiple times a year. They are 2-day events called Living Imperfectly Live (and sometimes they are 1-day virtual events). They are a space where humans from every walk of life can come together to be part of a community on the pursuit of badassery. The goal is to help attendees start living the life we say we want to live.

Alas, you're here because of an idea I had a number of years ago and didn't think I was good enough to pull it off. I finally acted on it and alas Diner Talks with James was born! As you can see from what I do in my professional life, Diner Talks is alligned with everything I believe in and teach.  If this wasn't dry enough, and you would like to know more info about my speaking, events, or coaching feel free to check out my website: JamesTRobo.com.

Let’s Be Friends on Social Media!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamestrobo

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamestrobo

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesrobilotta/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/JamesRobilottaCSP

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/JamesTRobo

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from the listeners are extremely valuable to me and greatly appreciated. They help Diner Talks podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, it would mean the world if you couple leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Today in the booth, Jason Hewlett is coming in hot and ordering up a Moons Over My Hammy and dishing out advice that’s good for the soul. We talked about body image and being comfortable in our own skin, ways to discover our signature moves – or our natural strengths, how to be comfortable in the different seasons of parenthood and ditch the idea of balance, and how to have grace with ourselves and be mindful of the way we speak with ourselves. This episode is jam-packed with selfcare and Jason delivers advice thoughtfully and hilariously. If you’re looking for a feel-good episode that will remind you to have forgiveness and grace for yourself – this one’s for you!

About the Guest: 

Jason Hewlett, CSP, CPAE Speaker Hall of Fame and Keynote Speaker, for the top corporate events in the world with his message, "The Promise". Combining the powerful business-meets-personal mindset shifting philosophy of The Promise we make as Leaders, A family man, husband and father of 4 beautiful children, Jason's message and value is expressed in his insightful and hilarious blog posts, videos, and live performances to delighted audiences. Jason’s hobbies include hiking in the mountains, writing music, playing with his kids, being a diehard Utah Jazz fan and staring at his wife.

Connect with Jason and learn more:

JasonHewlett.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonhewlett/

https://www.facebook.com/jasonhewlettentertainer/

Instagram: @JasonHewlett

About the Host: 

Friends! Here's a somewhat stuffy bio of me:  

I am an author, professional speaker, coach, host, and entrepreneur. My first book, Leading Imperfectly: The value of being authentic for leaders, professionals, and human beings, is available wherever people buy books. I speak internationally to willing and unwilling attendees about authenticity, vulnerability, and leadership. My clients include American Express, General Electric (GE), Accenture, Yale University, The Ohio State University, and many others. As a speaker, I am doing the two things I loves the most: making people think and making people laugh! 

I host my own events multiple times a year. They are 2-day events called Living Imperfectly Live (and sometimes they are 1-day virtual events). They are a space where humans from every walk of life can come together to be part of a community on the pursuit of badassery. The goal is to help attendees start living the life we say we want to live.

Alas, you're here because of an idea I had a number of years ago and didn't think I was good enough to pull it off. I finally acted on it and alas Diner Talks with James was born! As you can see from what I do in my professional life, Diner Talks is alligned with everything I believe in and teach.  If this wasn't dry enough, and you would like to know more info about my speaking, events, or coaching feel free to check out my website: JamesTRobo.com.

Let’s Be Friends on Social Media!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamestrobo

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamestrobo

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesrobilotta/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/JamesRobilottaCSP

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/JamesTRobo

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from the listeners are extremely valuable to me and greatly appreciated. They help Diner Talks podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, it would mean the world if you couple leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Sliding into the diner this week is actor, Alessandra Torresani. You’ve seen her on Big Bang Theory, American Horror Story, and most recently the movie, Women is Losers. She and I kicked things off by disclosing our first on-stage kisses (spoiler, hers was Frankie Muniz) then made our way back to our favorite diner orders. Alessandra told me about her California journey from the Bay Area to LA and the start of her acting career. We then talked about when we both learned that we may be struggling with mental health issues. I loved the way Alessandra talked about her journey with bi-polar disorder and the beauty of medication. Her story about how a conference in London changed her life was beautiful. We ended by discussing a few other things including the role that humor can (and probably should) play in mental health. 

About the Guest: 

Alessandra Olivia Torresani began studying dancing and singing when she was two years old. At the age of 8, she landed a job doing interviews between cartoons on The WB Television Network. She holds a black belt in taekwondo. Torresani's television debut was at age nine when she hosted the "Kids' WB Club" for San Francisco's KBWB.  She co-starred in the Disney Channel Original Movie Going to the Mat. Her other television credits include guest appearances on Even Stevens, JAG, ER, The War at Home, Malcolm In The Middle, Arrested Development, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles, CSI, Husbands, Big Bang Theory. Torresani is bipolar and hosts EmotionAL Support with Alessandra Torresani, a mental health podcast.

Connect with Alessandra and learn more:

Podcast: EmotionAL Support with Alessandra Torresani

Instagram: @AlessandraTorresani

About the Host: 

Friends! Here's a somewhat stuffy bio of me:  

I am an author, professional speaker, coach, host, and entrepreneur. My first book, Leading Imperfectly: The value of being authentic for leaders, professionals, and human beings, is available wherever people buy books. I speak internationally to willing and unwilling attendees about authenticity, vulnerability, and leadership. My clients include American Express, General Electric (GE), Accenture, Yale University, The Ohio State University, and many others. As a speaker, I am doing the two things I loves the most: making people think and making people laugh! 

I host my own events multiple times a year. They are 2-day events called Living Imperfectly Live (and sometimes they are 1-day virtual events). They are a space where humans from every walk of life can come together to be part of a community on the pursuit of badassery. The goal is to help attendees start living the life we say we want to live.

Alas, you're here because of an idea I had a number of years ago and didn't think I was good enough to pull it off. I finally acted on it and alas Diner Talks with James was born! As you can see from what I do in my professional life, Diner Talks is alligned with everything I believe in and teach.  If this wasn't dry enough, and you would like to know more info about my speaking, events, or coaching feel free to check out my website: JamesTRobo.com.

Let’s Be Friends on Social Media!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamestrobo

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamestrobo

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesrobilotta/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/JamesRobilottaCSP

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/JamesTRobo

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from the listeners are extremely valuable to me and greatly appreciated. They help Diner Talks podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, it would mean the world if you couple leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

This week in the diner I hung out with my man, Stu Massengill. What I appreciate about Stu is that he is so dedicated to looking for what’s next and building his legacy, but he’s also so in tune with the present moment and savors every day, and I loved the way he talked about striking that balance. In this episode, we talked about Stu’s career as an entrepreneur, his battle with cancer, and his decision to leave his career in the wellness industry to start a speaking business and begin working with the GOAT – Tony Robbins. Stu is a maximizer and up to big things in this world, and I know you’re going to love what he shares in this episode.

About the Guest: 

Hey, my name is Stu Massengill and I am on a mission to help people answer the question, "What do I want to do with my life?" Over the last 10 years, I have been immersed in the personal development world which led me to opportunities such as speaking on stages in front of 10,000 people, building a business that did 8 million dollars in revenue, and now working with the GOAT himself, Tony Robbins. One of the biggest things this helped me with, however, was beating cancer at the age of 24 due to what I learned from personal development. Aside from my mission to make an impact I love the outdoors, am a huge snowboarder and avid traveler, and doing my best to enjoy my time here on earth.

Connect with Stu and learn more:

5 Day Find Your Future Challenge: www.findingdirectionuniversity.com

website: www.stumassengill.com

Social Media (IG, Facebook, LinkedIn) Stu Massengill on everything

About the Host: 

Friends! Here's a somewhat stuffy bio of me:  

I am an author, professional speaker, coach, host, and entrepreneur. My first book, Leading Imperfectly: The value of being authentic for leaders, professionals, and human beings, is available wherever people buy books. I speak internationally to willing and unwilling attendees about authenticity, vulnerability, and leadership. My clients include American Express, General Electric (GE), Accenture, Yale University, The Ohio State University, and many others. As a speaker, I am doing the two things I loves the most: making people think and making people laugh! 

I host my own events multiple times a year. They are 2-day events called Living Imperfectly Live (and sometimes they are 1-day virtual events). They are a space where humans from every walk of life can come together to be part of a community on the pursuit of badassery. The goal is to help attendees start living the life we say we want to live.

Alas, you're here because of an idea I had a number of years ago and didn't think I was good enough to pull it off. I finally acted on it and alas Diner Talks with James was born! As you can see from what I do in my professional life, Diner Talks is alligned with everything I believe in and teach.  If this wasn't dry enough, and you would like to know more info about my speaking, events, or coaching feel free to check out my website: JamesTRobo.com.

Let’s Be Friends on Social Media!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamestrobo

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamestrobo

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesrobilotta/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/JamesRobilottaCSP

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/JamesTRobo

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from the listeners are extremely valuable to me and greatly appreciated. They help Diner Talks podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, it would mean the world if you couple leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.