In this episode of Just Human, I sit down again with ultra-marathoner and combat Marine Tyler Herman to explore what it really means to be tough.

Tyler recently attempted the URA 100, one of the hardest 100-mile mountain races in the world. After nearly 50 miles and 16,000 feet of climbing, his race ended with three letters: DNF (Did Not Finish). But what happened in those miles and the decision to stop is a powerful lesson in resilience, vulnerability, and redefining success.

We talk about:
🏔 The moment self-doubt hit harder than the physical pain
🏔 How his crew carried belief for him when he couldn’t carry it himself
🏔 The difference between pain and injury, and why stopping can be the bravest choice
🏔 Why failure can sometimes be the very thing we need to grow

This conversation isn’t just about running. It’s about leadership, community, and the human side of toughness.

💡 If you’ve ever faced setbacks in business, family, or life, Tyler’s story will remind you: toughness isn’t about being unbreakable. It’s about being fully human in the climb.

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Feeling overwhelmed by stress at work or home? You’re not alone. In this episode of Just Human, Jay Boykin dives into those “pressure cooker” moments when our patience snaps and our brains go overdrive. From inbox overload to family chaos, Jay unpacks why our minds short-circuit under pressure, and how to reset before we react.

You’ll discover:
✅ Why stress hijacks your brain (hello, amygdala!)
✅ A simple 3-step reset: Pause, Ask, Clarify
✅ How emotional intelligence can help you stay steady under fire
✅ Why Mel Robbins’ Let Them theory might be the permission slip you need to reclaim peace

This isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being human. Jay shares practical tools for responding with clarity, empathy, and grace, whether leading a team, navigating relationships, or surviving a hectic Tuesday.

📌 Watch now and learn how to turn chaos into calm.

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Because being human comes first.

Music is more than sound—it’s memory, connection, and emotion wrapped into one. In this episode of Just Human, host Jay Boykin is joined by his brother, Jeff Boykin, for a heartfelt conversation about the role of music in their lives and how it connects us all.

From childhood memories of spinning vinyl in their father’s game room to the science of how music lights up the brain, Jay and Jeff explore how songs become the soundtrack to our human experience. They talk about the universal power of Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston, the revival of vinyl collections, and why music often feels like a shared language—whether in a firehouse, on a boat, or across cultures in Kenya.

You’ll also hear about Jeff’s unique “superpower” of matching life moments with perfect lyrics, and why music so often pulls us back into our most meaningful memories.

💡 Challenge of the week: Revisit a song that has profoundly impacted you, then share it with a loved one to spark reconnection.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share your favorite song in the comments, and check out the Just Human Vol. 1 playlist on Spotify! 
👉 https://open.spotify.com/playlist/370GaTscYjj0nnfY5jWQM2?si=63ed9864600f4b28

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What if you only had 4,000 weeks to live? The truth is… You probably do.

In this episode of Just Human, I explore what it means to live within our limits — and why that might be the best thing for us. Inspired by Oliver Burkeman’s book 4,000 Weeks: Time Management for Mortals, we’ll look at how time went from being something we experienced to something we relentlessly try to conquer.

You’ll learn:

Why productivity can trap you instead of freeing you

How to shift from “doing it all” to focusing on what truly matters

Practical tips to reclaim your time and live with more intention

Why your limitations might be your greatest gift

This isn’t about hacks or hustle. It’s about presence, purpose, and protecting your most valuable resource — time.

⏳ Key Topics:
00:00 – Intro: What it means to be Just Human
00:49 – The 4,000-week reality check
04:48 – How time became a commodity
10:42 – The trap of productivity
16:34 – Embracing limitations as a gift
21:27 – Choosing what truly matters
26:55 – Final reflections and challenge for you

🔗 CTA:
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Summary 

In this episode, Jay Boykin explores the concept of time management through the lens of Oliver Berkman's book '4,000 Weeks: Time Management for Mortals.' He discusses the finite nature of our time, the productivity trap, and how embracing our limitations can lead to a more meaningful life. Boykin emphasizes the importance of prioritizing what truly matters and offers practical tips for managing time effectively, encouraging listeners to be present and mindful in their daily lives. 

Takeaways 

 We all wrestle with the same things in life. 

The average person has about 4,160 weeks to live. 

Productivity is a trap that creates more demands. 

We have lost touch with the true value of time. 

Our limitations are not problems to solve, but realities to embrace. 

Freedom comes from choosing what matters most. 

Not everything deserves our time and attention. 

Waiting for the perfect time is counterproductive. 

Accepting discomfort is part of the process. 

You can't do everything; focus on what truly matters. 

Keywords 

 time management, productivity, limitations, personal growth, purpose, efficiency trap, 4000 weeks, Oliver Berkman, mindfulness, presence 

Keywords:

human connection, social interactions, overcoming barriers, curiosity, personal growth, non-transactional relationships, podcast, Just Human, Thibaud Edwards, Jay Boykin

Summary:

In this episode of the Just Human podcast, host Jay Boykin speaks with Thibaud Edwards about his unique challenge of connecting with 100 people in 100 days. Thibaud shares his journey of overcoming personal barriers to communication, the importance of non-transactional relationships, and the surprising depth of conversations he experienced. The discussion emphasizes the value of curiosity in human interactions and the growth that comes from stepping outside of one's comfort zone. Thibaud reflects on the lessons learned from his challenge and his plans for future endeavors.

Takeaways:

The challenge of connecting with strangers can lead to personal growth.

Overcoming personal barriers is essential for effective communication.

Non-transactional connections can lead to deeper relationships.

Curiosity can replace fear in social interactions.

Many people are eager for genuine connections.

Social media can distort perceptions of individuals.

The majority of people are more similar than they appear.

Discomfort is often a precursor to growth.

Engaging with others can reveal unexpected insights.

The 100-day challenge format can be a powerful tool for personal development.

Sound Bites:

"I have to get out of this space."

"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take."

"I absolutely love the 100-day format."

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Just Human Podcast

01:27 The Unusual Connection: Meeting Thibaut Edwards

03:41 Challenging Comfort Zones: The 100 People Journey

09:32 The Impact of Avoidance: Personal Reflections

12:36 Home Life and Family Dynamics

16:47 The Need for Connection: Insights from the Challenge

18:55 Responses and Conversations: Surprising Depths

22:02 Navigating Conversations: The Good and the Bad

27:05 Bridging the Gap: Overcoming Conversation Barriers

28:51 From Transactional to Relational: The Power of Genuine Connections

32:39 Embracing Discomfort: Growth Through Challenge

39:59 Curiosity Over Transaction: Transforming Interactions

46:52 Finding Common Ground: The Beauty of Diverse Perspectives

52:21 Looking Ahead: Future Challenges and Growth

Keywords

mental health, mental health awareness, emotional resilience, psychological flexibility, therapy misconceptions, Dawn Swan, Jay Boykin, mental health conversations, emotional health, self-awareness, mental health, emotional barriers, vulnerability, leadership, self-care, therapy, stigma, high-performing professionals, community support, emotional healing

Summary

In this episode, Jay Boykin and Dawn Swan discuss the significance of mental health, especially during Mental Health Awareness Month. They explore what mental health truly means, the importance of emotional resilience and flexibility, and how societal divisions impact our mental well-being. Dawn shares her personal journey and insights into therapy, addressing common misconceptions and emphasizing the need for open conversations about mental health. In this conversation, Dawn Swan discusses the importance of understanding emotional barriers, recognizing when to seek help, and the impact of societal stigmas on mental health, particularly for men. She emphasizes the power of vulnerability in leadership and the necessity of self-care for high-performing professionals. The dialogue also highlights the humanity of therapists and the shared journey of healing, encouraging listeners to find community and support in their mental health journeys.

Takeaways

• Mental health is crucial for daily functioning.
• Dawn Swan emphasizes the importance of flexibility in mental health.
• Emotional resilience allows us to ride the waves of our feelings.
• We all have a full range of emotions that are necessary for our well-being.
• Avoiding certain emotions can lead to rigidity in mental health.
• Optimal mental health includes being able to hold multiple emotions at once.
• Therapy is not just about receiving information; it's about personal growth.
• Finding the right therapist is essential for effective counseling.
• Misconceptions about therapy can prevent people from seeking help.
• Open conversations about mental health are more important than ever. People often struggle to implement information due to emotional barriers.
• Therapists can help clients identify where they get stuck in their emotional processes.
• Recognizing the need for help is crucial when feeling stuck in life.
• Stigmas around mental health, especially for men, can hinder seeking help.
• Vulnerability is a strength that fosters connection and leadership.
• High-performing professionals must prioritize their mental health just as they do their physical health.
• Self-care is essential for caregivers to effectively support others.
• Therapists are also human and experience their own struggles.
• Community support is vital for mental health and healing.
• Finding safe spaces to practice vulnerability is important for personal growth.

Sound Bites

• "Mental health is crucial for how we show up."
• "I am just showing up with a little bit of nerves."
• "Optimal mental health is characterized by flexibility."
• "Emotions are signals that we need a certain response."
• "What we resist persists."
• "We need anger to help us stand up for ourselves."
• "Optimal well-being would look like a full crayon box."
• "It's okay to have more than one feeling."
• "Shop around for a therapist that feels right."
• "Lack of information is not the problem."
• "Therapists are just human."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Mental Health Awareness Month

02:15
Dawn Swan's Journey and Background

06:38
Understanding Mental Health

19:04
The Importance of Mental Health Conversations

25:35
Misconceptions About Therapy

28:24
Understanding Emotional Barriers

31:39

Summary

In this episode of Just Human, host Jay Boykin interviews Tyler Herman, a former Marine and current ultra-marathon runner. They discuss Tyler's journey from military service to law enforcement, his challenges in combat, and how those experiences shaped his resilience. Tyler shares his passion for ultra-marathon running, explaining the mental and physical challenges involved and the motivation behind his participation in these grueling races. The conversation emphasizes the importance of support systems, finding purpose in pain, and the mindset required to overcome obstacles in life and running. Tyler also discusses his upcoming race, the Ure 50, and the significance of pushing personal limits.

Takeaways

• We all wrestle with the same questions about growth and connection.
• The journey from military to civilian life can be challenging.
• Resilience is built through shared experiences and support systems.
• Ultra-marathon running is a metaphor for life's challenges.
• Finding purpose in pain can lead to personal growth.
• Comfort is an illusion; true growth happens in discomfort.
• Surrounding yourself with trusted individuals is crucial for success.
• Mental challenges in endurance sports reflect life's obstacles.
• Setting stretch goals can push you beyond your limits.
• It's important to find your heart and pursue what matters to you.

Sound Bites

• "Comfort is an illusion."
• "Go find your heart."
• "It's all a mindset."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to the Human Experience

01:16
Journey to the Marines

06:39
Transitioning to Law Enforcement

09:56
Resilience Through Adversity

14:55
The Shift to Ultra Marathon Running

22:18
Understanding Ultra Marathons

23:08
Mindset in Endurance Racing

27:03
The Challenge of Endurance Racing

32:05
Preparing for the Next Big Race

38:50
Mindset: Overcoming Mental Barriers

42:12
Finding Your Heart: Personal Growth Through Challenges

46:12
Lighthearted Moments: Running and Shoes

Keywords:

skydiving, personal growth, coaching, entrepreneurship, overcoming fear, professional athlete, keynote speaking, life lessons, investment banking, human experience, commitment, skydiving, overcoming fear, support systems, high performance, personal growth, teamwork, self-reflection, entrepreneurship, mental health

Summary:

In this episode of the Just Human podcast, host Jay Boykin speaks with Melanie Curtis, a former investment banker turned professional skydiver, life coach, and keynote speaker. They explore Melanie's unique journey, the role of fear in personal growth, and the importance of pursuing one's passions. Melanie shares insights on coaching, the challenges of being a professional athlete, and the transition from a corporate career to entrepreneurship. The conversation emphasizes the significance of facing fears, thinking bigger, and the value of hard work in achieving personal and professional goals. In this engaging conversation, Jay Boykin and Melanie Curtis explore themes of commitment, overcoming fear, and the importance of support systems in personal and professional growth. Melanie shares her experiences in skydiving, teamwork, and the challenges of high performance, emphasizing the need for skills, systems, and a supportive circle to navigate life's fears and challenges. The discussion highlights the significance of self-reflection and the choices we make in our relationships, ultimately encouraging listeners to embrace their fears and pursue their passions with courage.

Takeaways:

Melanie Curtis transitioned from investment banking to skydiving. Fear can hold us back from pursuing our passions. Confidence is a result of taking action, not a prerequisite. Type two fun refers to experiences that are rewarding after completion. Thinking bigger is a skill that can be developed. Coaching is about being a teammate in achieving goals. Melanie prefers working with experienced skydivers for coaching. The journey of a professional skydiver involves rigorous training. Personal growth often requires facing uncomfortable challenges. Entrepreneurship allows for greater impact and personal fulfillment. I've burned my boats. I'm not going back. I nerd out on finances and spreadsheets. Fear is universally human. You're not failing. We need skills, systems, and support. You have to choose wisely who you surround yourself with. High performers often exhaust themselves deeply. Building skills around fear is essential. Support systems are crucial for overcoming challenges. Self-reflection helps in understanding our choices. Embrace discomfort as a pathway to breakthroughs.

Sound Bites:

"How do we grow?" "I was exposed to this." "I lucked out." "I didn't like saving lives." "Thinking bigger is a skill." "I nerd out on finances and spreadsheets." "I got hypoxic. My vision was narrowing." "I learned a lot from that skydive." "We need skills, systems, and support." "We can't do this life alone."

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Just Human Podcast

01:00 Melanie Curtis: From Investment Banking to Skydiving

02:58 The Journey of a Professional Skydiver

05:52 The Role of Fear in Personal Growth

09:07 Understanding Professional Skydiving

11:58 Coaching and Keynote Speaking: A New Path

14:59 The Importance of Facing Challenges

18:07 Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurial Life

29:04 Embracing Change and Commitment

30:27 The Thrill of Skydiving and Teamwork

35:43 Overcoming Fear and Finding Purpose

37:39 Skills, Systems, and Support in Facing Fear

41:45 The Importance of Choosing Your Circle

44:50 Defining High Performance and Self-Reflection

Keywords thumbs up emoji, digital communication, passive aggression, emotional responses, social media etiquette

Summary In this episode of Just Human, host Jay Boykin discusses the emotional implications of receiving a thumbs up emoji in digital communication. He shares personal anecdotes and scenarios that illustrate how this seemingly innocuous gesture can feel dismissive and passive-aggressive. Boykin emphasizes the importance of thoughtful responses in our digital interactions and encourages listeners to consider the emotional weight of their communication.

Takeaways The thumbs up emoji can feel dismissive and passive-aggressive. Digital communication often lacks emotional depth. Responses like 'sounds good' are more meaningful than a thumbs up. The thumbs up emoji is often perceived as an insult. People may overthink the implications of a thumbs up response. Communication should reflect emotional engagement. The use of emojis can impact relationships and perceptions. A simple acknowledgment can go a long way in communication. Different emojis convey different levels of engagement. It's important to strive for better communication in digital interactions.

Sound Bites "The thumbs up emoji is really more like an insult." "It's like the emoji equivalent of uh-huh." "Your thumbs up emoji is not therapy."