What happens when “How does that work?” becomes your whole brand? In this episode of Everything & Anything… and a Bit Gay, I sit down with fellow podcaster Rashad Woods, host of The Randomness of Nothing (TRON) Podcast—a show fueled by curiosity, discovery, and the kind of conversations that make your world feel bigger than your zip code. Rashad shares how he launched TRON (and grew it to tens of thousands of downloads), how he finds guests, and why he intentionally keeps his show in a “neutral, safe space” that avoids the exhausting culture-war cycle. We talk about the real grind behind podcasting—booking, editing, clipping, staying consistent—plus the imposter syndrome that hits even when the numbers are right there. And yes… we get into dream guests, including Rashad’s all-time wish: Wesley Snipes. If you’re a creator, a curious mind, or someone who loves a good “how it’s made / how it happened” conversation, this one’s for you.

Where to Find Rashad 

TRON Website: https://www.tronpodcast.com/ 

Listen: Available on all major podcast platforms (Spotify, Apple Podcasts, etc.)

Podcast song by SIXFOOT 5: https://www.sixfoot5prod.com 

Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sixfoot-5/1551774977 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5rHMzoU0G0fLhaBsrQiOOY?si=laSZ5hiKTYubJJyhrzf2JQ

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Aidan’s podcast: Getting Close

Aidan’s Substack: Gay Buffet

Tools + habits: analog alarm clock, phone boundaries, intentional social “yes” seasons

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Everything and Anything in a Bit Gay and check out Getting Close wherever you listen. And if you’re craving more connection in your own life—send one text today. One small “get close” moment counts.

Podcast song by SIXFOOT 5: https://www.sixfoot5prod.com 

Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sixfoot-5/1551774977 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5rHMzoU0G0fLhaBsrQiOOY?si=laSZ5hiKTYubJJyhrzf2JQ

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The most common question he gets: “Where do you get your energy?”

His daily schedule: early mornings, long days, “smiling through complexity”

His origin story: hyperactive childhood, raised with Ayurveda + Vedic philosophy

Martial arts to meditation: how “violence can lead to silence”

The turning point: learning to love solitude and inner quiet

Why he left the world behind to meditate

What he says he learned about the mind’s limitations

Returning with purpose: sharing what he calls “infinity” and inner freedom

Building a center in India to help people “listen within themselves”

Who comes to him: people from around the world searching for meaning and healing

Why he believes 28 days is the body’s full reset cycle

How the program breaks down:

Days 1–7: preparation

Days 8–14: introducing mind + medicine

Days 15–21: processing

Days 22–28: “concretization” (integration into daily life)

Also available: one-on-one sessions and virtual consults

Guruji’s take: emotions are deeply tied to hormones and internal chemistry

Anger and adrenaline, happiness and endorphins—his simplified framework

His core argument: the trigger is external, but the reaction is internal

Breathwork as regulation: using breath to influence the body and mind

His controversial reframe: “We don’t need to forgive others—we need to strengthen ourselves”

The “immunity” metaphor: if someone hurts you, look at where you’re vulnerable

The goal: build enough inner power to meet pain with compassion (not collapse)

Why relationships break down: conditional love and rigid expectations

His suggestion: practice introspection before trying to “fix” a partner

Energy and connection: the idea that love has measurable “harmony” in the body

The spiritual lens: love beyond judgment, rules, and fear

His advice: don’t wait for approval—build self-sufficiency

The forest lesson: animals don’t ask permission to survive

His belief: the more you access your inner strength, the less external validation controls you

Reframe: become so whole you can still show up with love—even if others don’t

His prescription: 24 minutes a day—one minute for every hour

Morning or evening, quiet place, consistent ritual

Meditation as “prayer”: reclaiming the meaning without dogma

Zach’s personal takeaway: better days, better mood, but consistency is the challenge

Why your mind races at night (his explanation through hormones)

Meditation as daily maintenance, gurus as “periodic service”

The bigger idea: we treat cars and computers with more care than our own bodies

His definition: spirituality = energy + union of mind and body

Religion as “re-union” (a reconnection)—not rules

His simple framework: when mind and body unify, a third experience emerges (freedom)

Guruji challenges heaven/hell as imagination without direct proof

His claim: to know what happens after death, you must “die consciously”

Breath retention, pranayama, and altered states of consciousness

Reincarnation: his view depends on the “level of consciousness” achieved

Zach vows to book a session to learn breathwork and nighttime calm

Guruji’s humility: “My job is to shine like the sun—no attachment to praise or blame”

The aim: steadiness, contentment, equanimity

Follow on IG:  https://www.instagram.com/yogi.shivan

Check out his website: https://indimasi.com/

Podcast song by SIXFOOT 5: https://www.sixfoot5prod.com 

Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sixfoot-5/1551774977 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5rHMzoU0G0fLhaBsrQiOOY?si=laSZ5hiKTYubJJyhrzf2JQ

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Christian’s journey from growing up in the Mormon church to embracing humanism

The danger of absolutism — and why “I don’t know” is powerful

Storytelling as survival and self-interrogation

How sci-fi (and yes, Star Trek!) shapes empathy

Why his protagonist Lily Starling wakes up without her memory

Writing queer characters without making queerness the “issue”

Radical agency in female protagonists

Loneliness, outsider identity, and reaching younger readers

Writing in a linear, Shakespeare-inspired process

Creativity vs. day jobs — and practical advice for artists afraid to leap

Leadership, compassion, and why being a good boss matters

What to expect from Book 3 (hint: darker themes, institutional tension)

Realistic optimism and the small ways we impact the world

Voyage of the Salamander – Book One

Storm Riders – Book Two

Book Three currently in progress

A sweeping sci-fi series centered on Lily Starling, a queer young woman navigating identity, agency, institutions, and connection in a vast and evolving universe.

Follow Christian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/churstpublishing/

Christian's Website: https://www.churstpublishing.com/

Buy Christian's Book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0aCOLl8l

Podcast song by SIXFOOT 5: https://www.sixfoot5prod.com 

Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sixfoot-5/1551774977 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5rHMzoU0G0fLhaBsrQiOOY?si=laSZ5hiKTYubJJyhrzf2JQ

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

• Rehan Jalali’s “good to great” philosophy and how he builds fully customized transformation plans
• What Rehan tests before creating a program:
  • blood work
  • genetics
  • allergies/preferences
  • full “blueprint” approach
• Getting actors ready for roles with zero margin for error (and a one-day shirtless scene deadline)
• Touring and performance fitness: why concerts are basically marathons every night
• The moment Rehan realized nutrition was the missing key — and how it changed everything
• Supplements: what Rehan says is overrated vs. underrated
  • creatine
  • probiotics + gut health
  • turmeric (and why bioavailability matters)
  • magnesium glycinate
  • vitamin D3 + K2
• Mineral absorption 101: why certain combos compete (and what forms to avoid)
• Sleep advice that’s actually practical:
  • ditch screens one hour before bed
  • magnesium glycinate, 5-HTP, melatonin (with caveats)
  • cooling your sleep environment
• Why most New Year’s resolutions fail — and how to build consistency (21-day habit rule)
• Goal-setting that works: specific, measurable goals + momentum + accountability
• Rehan’s take on GLP-1s: useful tool, big concern = muscle loss, importance of protein + lifting
• Parenting and health: teaching kids nutrition early and modeling it at home
• Fitness as science + creativity: “do the you diet”
• Rehan’s Hollywood origin story: 
  • hanging up on Sylvester Stallone
  • getting pulled into film sets, supplements, and celebrity transformation
• Rehan’s new project: Echos TV and an AI photorealistic film premiere (“Deep Frame”)

Follow Rehan at https://www.instagram.com/sixpackdietplan

Visit Rehan's website: https://www.superherodietplan.com/

Rehan on Amazon: https://a.co/d/01zkGLtr

Podcast song by SIXFOOT 5: https://www.sixfoot5prod.com 

Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sixfoot-5/1551774977 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5rHMzoU0G0fLhaBsrQiOOY?si=laSZ5hiKTYubJJyhrzf2JQ

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In This Episode, We Discuss: Risa’s seven-year journey to finally being diagnosed with acromegaly Undergoing brain surgery and the emotional aftermath Grieving an old identity as an Ironman athlete and high-achiever Naming her brain tumor “Bubba” — and why it changed everything The dissolution of her 18-year marriage Falling in love with a woman and redefining her identity Choosing to ride 1,800 miles from Canada to Mexico Camping, rainstorms, and unexpected roadside magic (including Duchess Donuts 🍩) Learning that “life isn’t that big a deal” Letting go of perfectionism — one pair of socks at a time Why her story isn’t about the bike ride… it’s about taking action in your own life About Risa August: Risa is the author of The Road Unpaved, a memoir chronicling her journey through illness, identity, divorce, and reinvention. Through candid storytelling, she inspires readers to take bold steps toward living life on their own terms.

Visit Risa's website: https://www.risaaugust.com/

Follow Risa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/risaunleashed

Podcast song by SIXFOOT 5: https://www.sixfoot5prod.com 

Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sixfoot-5/1551774977 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5rHMzoU0G0fLhaBsrQiOOY?si=laSZ5hiKTYubJJyhrzf2JQ

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Guest: Kyle Ridley
Host of The Tangle with Kyle Ridley

• Kyle’s 20-year journalism career — from print to NBC to producing DC morning TV
• Winning two local Emmys (and why he didn’t attend the ceremony)
• Turning 40 and deciding to finally step into the spotlight
• Imposter syndrome in media and aging into confidence
• Divorce in the LGBTQ+ community and how relationships evolve
• Monogamy vs. open relationships — what works, what doesn’t
• The emotional complexity of “secondary” relationships
• Building gay community later in life
• Dream podcast guests (Margaret Cho, Andy Cohen, Sandra Bernhard, Rosie O’Donnell & more)
• What it’s like booking and interviewing major celebrities
• Heated Rivalry deep dive (Connor vs. Francois debate included)
• Celebrity crushes: Jacob Elordi, Paul Mescal, Jon Hamm & daddy vibes
• Starting over professionally after layoffs and launching your own media company
• What success actually means in your 40s
• Maintaining hope in a chaotic political and cultural moment

🎙️ The Tangle with Kyle Ridley
📲 Available wherever you listen to podcasts

Follow Kyle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kyleridley_

Podcast song by SIXFOOT 5: https://www.sixfoot5prod.com 

Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sixfoot-5/1551774977 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5rHMzoU0G0fLhaBsrQiOOY?si=laSZ5hiKTYubJJyhrzf2JQ

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kelly’s origin story: wanting to help people since childhood — and why traditional therapy didn’t feel like her path

What the Akashic Records are (and what they aren’t)

How readings work: questions, guidance, and the “Masters and Teachers”

Why healing can feel harder for ourselves than for other people

The difference between forgiveness vs. tolerance (and why the words matter)

Triggers as mirrors: what someone else is showing you about you

The role of self-responsibility without shame or self-judgment

Ho’oponopono and the missing line most people don’t know

Why forgiveness doesn’t mean reconnection — boundaries can be love

Zach’s perspective shift on religion, spirituality, past lives, and curiosity

A mini “live” Records moment: guidance for Zach on growing the show (engagement + newsletter + audience feedback loops)

How to work with Kelly and who her work is best for (stuck, misaligned, needing clarity)

Kelly’s definition of the Records as your soul’s “recording” — including future potential

The “no judgment” experience and why it changes how you see yourself

The idea that you can love someone and decide you’re no longer a match

“If I had known better, I would have done better.”

Podcast growth guidance: build stronger bridges to the audience, not just the guests

Kelly S. Jones — Life coach, healer, author, and speaker (25+ years)
Website: kellysjones.net

Podcast song by SIXFOOT 5: https://www.sixfoot5prod.com 

Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sixfoot-5/1551774977 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5rHMzoU0G0fLhaBsrQiOOY?si=laSZ5hiKTYubJJyhrzf2JQ

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Guest: John Hill
Host: Zach Randles-Friedman
Podcast: Everything and Anything… and a Bit Gay

John Hill’s career in one sentence: singer, songwriter, performer, radio host, and pop-culture favorite

The Threads post that sparked a real conversation about “rage engagement” and authenticity

“Famous in pockets”: what it feels like being recognized across Broadway, radio, and niche internet fame

Moving back to New York after L.A.—and dealing with an apartment fire almost immediately

Why New York social energy hits differently (and Zach’s take on Boston gay cliques)

Provincetown summer shows: why P-Town audiences show up

Parasocial closeness: how radio/podcasts make listeners feel like real friends—and why that can be beautiful

Why John doesn’t “go out” much anymore (sleep is gay self-care)

John + Andy in the studio again: the energy shift that listeners can feel

The “Will you and Andy get back together?” question—and why women ask it more than gay men

Broadway milestones: the moment John knew he was truly “doing the thing”

Perfectionism, pressure, and the gay overachiever mindset

Sobriety as a total identity reset: “I feel like an alien invaded my body”

Growing up religious, coming out, and seeing parents as victims of church messaging

The modern queer “safe spaces” debate (and the nuance behind viral clips)

Guests John loves and who Zach should book next: Bridget Everett, Dakota, Lisa Trager, Jake Cornell, and more

The dream future: writing books, movies, TV—and continuing live performance

Skincare corner: procedures, SPF, cleanser, moisturizer, and the products John recommends

John’s definition of performance: not ego—service

John Hill's Website: https://www.johnhill.online/ 

Follow John Hill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnarthurhill/ 

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@johnarthurhill 

Listen: Radio Andy (SiriusXM) + The John Hill Show https://www.siriusxm.com/channels/radio-andy

If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend and subscribe so you don’t miss what’s next.

Podcast song by SIXFOOT 5: https://www.sixfoot5prod.com 

Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sixfoot-5/1551774977 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5rHMzoU0G0fLhaBsrQiOOY?si=laSZ5hiKTYubJJyhrzf2JQ

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

• Dual citizenship + Spain: Why Spanish citizenship may require a verbal U.S. renunciation—and why the U.S. doesn’t recognize it
• Why not New Zealand? The “barrier to entry” and long-term stability factor
• Why Barcelona: Water, big-city energy, queer-friendliness, and lifestyle fit
• Visiting before moving: How Kyle and his husband did a “tourist + neighborhood” test trip
• Family reactions: From panic and fear to support (and the power of one cousin’s reality check)
• Big moves and big feelings: Distance, grief, adjustment, and staying connected across time zones
• Relationship impact: How moving abroad affects communication, stress, and day-to-day patience
• Medication, neurodivergence, and routine: What happens when structure disappears overnight
• Career + purpose: Kyle’s dance coaching background—and building a competitive dance program in Barcelona
• International competitions: Why returning to Orlando annually could become part of the plan
• Making friends fast: TikTok connections, expat communities, and immigrant-to-immigrant friendships
• Queer life in Barcelona: Visibility, safety, and the difference Kyle notices immediately
• Culture shocks Americans don’t expect: Urgency vs. European pace, and how “no one else is in a rush” hits different
• Air conditioning reality check: Heat waves, metro AC, and learning when to go out (and when to hide indoors)
• Moving with a cat: Sedation, food changes, and the “Mediterranean retirement” glow-up
• Food in Europe: Why produce tastes like it’s in “high definition”

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kyle.in.motion

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kyle.in.motion/

YouTube: @kyle.in.motion

Podcast song by SIXFOOT 5: https://www.sixfoot5prod.com 

Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sixfoot-5/1551774977 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5rHMzoU0G0fLhaBsrQiOOY?si=laSZ5hiKTYubJJyhrzf2JQ

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.