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Podcast Title: Just Two Cents with Eric Ebron Episode Title: Russian Speaker / Chinese Grammar (Episode 5)

Hey everyone, welcome back to "Just Two Cents," the show where we ponder life's big questions, offer unsolicited opinions, and occasionally get things hilariously wrong. I'm your host, Eric Ebron, and today we're diving into a topic that's as old as time itself: taking advice from people who aren't exactly experts.

We've all been there, right? Listening to a sports commentator analyze a play like they're Shakespeare himself, only to realize they probably couldn't dribble a basketball to save their life. Or maybe you've heard a politician wax poetic about the latest tech trends, making you wonder if they've ever even turned on a computer. 

You've heard of the politicians talking to the Google CEO about facetiming or the politician that mentioned island tipping due to too many people. There comes a point when WE as the hearers need to evaluate what's going in our ear holes!

But here's the thing, folks. Just because someone isn't a pro doesn't mean their advice is worthless. It's like a dancing hippopotamus trying to do ballet – sure, it's hilarious, but it might also teach you a thing or two about grace under pressure. (Pause for laughter)

Take that sports commentator, for example. They might not be able to dunk, but their passion and knowledge of the game can offer valuable insights. Maybe they point out a subtle strategy you missed, or explain the rules in a way that finally makes sense. It's like having a friend who's obsessed with fantasy football – annoying sometimes, but they do know their stuff.

And that politician who's clueless about coding? Well, they might not be able to build the next killer app, but their understanding of how technology impacts society can be incredibly insightful. They might ask the tough questions about ethics and privacy that the tech whiz is too busy coding to consider.

Then there's the language professor who's fluent in grammar but has never actually visited the country they teach about. Their knowledge of the language is invaluable, but they might miss some of the cultural nuances that only come from actually living there. It's like a food critic who's never tasted the dish they're reviewing – they might know all the ingredients, but they don't know how it actually tastes.

So, how do we navigate this minefield of non-professional advice? Well, it all comes down to using our noggins – and a healthy dose of skepticism. Consider the source. What's their passion? What's their knowledge base? Are they biased in any way?

Remember, sometimes the most insightful perspectives come from unexpected places. That enthusiastic sports fan might just change the way you watch the game. The tech-challenged politician might spark a conversation about the future of AI. And that armchair traveler language professor might inspire you to learn a new language and book a flight to a far-off land.

So, the next time you're faced with advice from a non-professional, don't dismiss it outright. Listen with an open mind, but also remember to use your own judgment. And hey, if you're ever really unsure, you can always consult a real expert – or maybe just ask a random stranger on the street. Who knows, they might have the two cents you need!

Thanks for tuning in to "Just Two Cents." Remember, advice comes in all shapes and sizes, just like the people giving it. Until next time, keep those ears open and those minds questioning!

Remember to go to Justtwocents.com and send me a voice message. I'm excited to hear about the best advice you've ever received, or for you to request for my Two Cents (Dear Abby style) on your scenario. 

Thanks for tuning in, and remember, it's "Just two cents"!

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Episode Title: Myriad of Circumstances: Curveballs, Not Fashion Trends

Hey everyone, and welcome back to Just Two Cents, where we're all about the funny, surprising, and sometimes confusing ways we give, take, and sometimes throw away advice.

We're expanding on the Myriad of Circumstances that affect our Advice giving, taking and reasons we should just throw it away. Today we're tackling a topic that's universal yet uniquely personal: life's curveballs. 

Now, life's problems can come at you like rogue dodgeballs in the schoolyard. You know, those moments where you're left wondering if you should dodge, duck, dip, dive and dodge? And like Patches O'Houlihan said, "if you master the 5 D's, no amount of balls on Earth can hit you." Some of you got that reference.

The good news is, these curveballs change over time. It's like a bizarre fashion show where each decade gets its own unique set of challenges. Thankfully, some of those trends, like men's high water pants, will fade away, never to return...hopefully.

In our twenties, it's all about ramen dinners, questionable life choices, and the ever-present existential dread of "What am I doing with my life?" 

Then come the thirties, where career ladders, mortgages, and the ticking (or not ticking) biological clock take center stage. Advice shifts to "Work hard, play hard," "Find balance," and the ever-so-subtle "Tick-tock, tick-tock" drumming in your psyche.

Fast forward to the fifties, and it's all about retirement planning, grandkids, and figuring out what to do with the rest of your life. The advice now ranges from "Travel the world" to "Enjoy your golden years, but wear sunscreen!"

But here's the thing, folks. Life's curveballs aren't one-size-fits-all. We each have our own unique journey, shaped by our passions, backgrounds, and the communities we're part of. The musician in a small town faces different challenges than the tech whiz in Silicon Valley. The single parent juggling work and childcare has a different set of worries than a couple navigating the complexities of raising 2.5 kids and the family dog.

So, what's the takeaway here? It's simple: the best advice isn't a universal formula. It's a supportive hand extended with understanding and respect for the individual navigating their own path. Embrace the uniqueness of your journey, seek advice that resonates with your heart, and remember, your perspective is a valuable piece of the puzzle.

Now, before we wrap up, let's not forget that our challenges and the advice we seek are shaped by where we live and the communities we're part of. From the casual vibes of the West Coast to the Southern hospitality of the Southeast, each region brings its own flavor to the table... (Pause) 

And that, my friends, is what the previous episode was about!

Thanks for tuning in to "Just Two Cents." Remember, life's curveballs may be unpredictable, but how you catch them is entirely up to you. And hey, if you're still wondering about those low-rise jeans, just trust me – they're not coming back. 

Remember to go to Justtwocents.com and send me a voice message. I'm excited to hear about the best advice you've ever received, or for you to request for my Two Cents (Dear Abby style) on your scenario. 

Thanks for tuning in, and remember, it's "Just two cents"!

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Episode Title:
Myriad of Circumstances: A Pizza Slice of American Diversity
Host: Eric Ebron

I'm your host, Eric Ebron and I'm ready to dish out some bite-sized insights on the wild and wonderful world we live in. 

I want to share that I have a "Record a Message" option available on the Justtwocents.com website. I hinted at this last week but I want to bring you into this fun ride. Go to the site, Justtwocents.com, and click on the upper right, "Send a message". And send me your questions for me to answer, send me your best advice you've ever received, or send me, like Dear Abby, a situation that you would want my "Two Cents" on. I'm excited for where we are going with this... 

Our cultural experiences or where we grew up, plays a particular perspective to how we give, take and throw away if the best advice!

Segment 1: West Coast Fusion

Alright, folks, first stop: the West Coast! Think sun-kissed beaches, tech innovation, and a dash of everything under the sun. From the growing Latino communities in California to the vibrant Asian American hubs in cities like Seattle, this region's like a fusion pizza, bursting with fresh and unexpected ingredients. 

Midwest Medley

Next up, we're heading to the heartland! The Midwest might be known for its cornfields and friendly folks, but its cultural landscape is anything but bland. From the rich African American communities in cities like Chicago to the growing Hmong and Somali populations, this region's like a hearty casserole, full of depth and surprising flavors. 

To understand advice differences, you can explore how international food festivals are popping up next to traditional county fairs, creating a unique blend of old and new.

Northeast Nostalgia with a Modern Twist

Our final destination is the Northeast United States, a historical melting pot that's still simmering with fresh ideas. This region is like a classic pizza with a gourmet twist – you've got your classic Italian, Irish, and Jewish communities, but now you're also seeing vibrant Latino, Asian, and African populations adding new spices to the mix. 

We'll talk about how bustling Chinatown neighborhoods in NYC coexist with traditional Irish pubs in Boston, creating a delicious tapestry of cultures.

Outro

And that's a wrap for today's episode, folks! The goal was to start you thinking that different regions in the US alone, is cause for concern when we are getting advice. Advice comes in many formats HOURLY, like the internet, social media, television, or family member spread out across the country. How you best friend in Tennessee would handle that situation may be completely different from your friend in Southern California, meaning two people who care deeply for you can give you two opposing pieces of advice... AND expect you to take it!! 

Remember, this is just a taste of the incredible diversity that makes America so unique. Each region's people have their own stories to tell, so get out there and explore the cultural flavors that make up our great nation – but realize that they have their own rules on advice giving and taking. 

This has been Just Two Cents. Next week, we continue to talk about the Myriad of Circumstances we find ourselves in AND we will talk about how those circumstances shape 'how' we think others should live so that OUR advice makes sense... it'll make sense next time! 

Remember to go to Justtwocents.com and send me a voice message. I'm excited to hear about the best advice you've ever received, or for you to request for my Two Cents (Dear Abby style) on your scenario. 

Thanks for tuning in, and remember, it's "Just two cents"!

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Podcast Title: Just Two Cents Episode Title: Perception is Reality 

Host: Eric Ebron

Hey everyone, and welcome back to Just Two Cents, where we're all about the funny, surprising, and sometimes downright confusing ways we give, take, and sometimes throw away advice. I'm your host, Eric Ebron. 

First, I want to share that I have exciting news! Go to the site, Justtwocents.com, and click on the upper right, "Send a message". And send me your questions for me to answer, send me your best advice you've ever received, or send me, like Dear Abby, a situation that you would want my "Two Cents" on. I'll read a couple of them on air and we'll go over it! I'm excited for where we are going with this... remember, Justtwocents.com website. 

Ok, today, we're diving back into the wacky world of perception. Because sometimes, our brains decide to take a little detour from reality. And that can lead to some pretty interesting experiences.

Let's start with the classic "seeing is believing" plot twist – hallucinations. Now, I'm not talking about seeing ghosts, but more like sensory experiences that dress up in costumes. You might see, hear, or even smell things that aren't really there.

But hold on, because now we're flipping the script. Sometimes, our brains get a little too good at hide-and-seek. I'm talking about conditions like agnosia, where a sense gets temporarily disconnected from reality. You might stare at your keys, but your brain refuses to acknowledge them. Or someone could be speaking perfect English, but all you hear is gibberish.

As a grad student, I was people affected with aphasia, which is a a language disorder that affects a person's ability to communicate effectively with others. Aphasia can impair a person's ability to speak, understand, read, and write. I saw the therapist pointing to a picture of the client's son and say who is this, and the person would say, "cheeseburger"... they couldn't find the right word AND they were frustrated because they knew that what they were saying was NOT what they were trying to say. 

I compare that to someone who really WANTS to give good advice to someone they love but can never say the right thing or say something the right way. They can't connect what their heart wants to say to what their mind spits out of their mind... chaos, right?! 

When dealing with someone that give terrible advice, but you know their heart is in the right place... it's not BAD advice, per se, it's just a disconnection – but you most likely shouldn't take that advice! 

These are the whispers of our limbic system, the emotional part of our brain, trying to outsmart our logical side. Some impulses are harmless, even fun. But others? Not so much. The trick is understanding why we have these impulses and finding healthy ways to cope.

That's all for today's episode of Just Two Cents. Remember to go to Justtwocents.com and send my a voice message. I'm excited to hear your best advice you've received, or your request for my Two Cents on your scenario. 

Next time your brain throws you a curveball, remember, it's not trying to be malicious. It's just a little quirky sometimes. Embrace the weirdness, seek help if you need it, and don't forget to laugh. After all, a little laughter is good for the brain, even when it's playing tricks on you.

Thanks for tuning in, and remember, it's "Just two cents"!

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Episode Title: Perception is Reality (Part 1)

Welcome back to "Just Two Cents," your weekly dose of real talk and lighthearted fun. I'm your host, Eric Ebron, and today we're diving into a topic that's both mind-boggling and entertaining: perception is reality.

How "Advice will relate" segment:

Today we're diving into a topic that's a little spooky, and a little silly: The Illusion of Reality. We're about to take a wild ride through the twists and turns of our own minds.

The Illusion of Reality

Ever feel like you're living in a simulation? Okay, maybe not that extreme, but we all know that feeling when we completely misinterpret a situation. It's like our brains are playing a game of telephone with reality, and the message gets a little garbled along the way.

That's the thing about perception – it's our filter, our lens, our very own pair of reality goggles. But sometimes those goggles get a little smudged, and we end up seeing things that aren't really there.

It is OK to have a bit of skepticism of what's there but the important thing is to cultivate a healthy skepticism – not a full-blown conspiracy theory kind of thing. You can still have that little voice in the back of our heads that says, "Hold on, Ebron, are you sure you saw what you think you saw?"

Playing Hide-and-Seek with Reality

Now, this whole illusion of reality thing can be pretty hilarious too. Like, have you ever been absolutely certain you saw someone out of the corner of your eye, only to turn around and find... nobody? It's like playing hide-and-seek with your own senses.

Or how about those times when you're frantically searching for your keys, swearing you just had them a second ago, only to find them sitting right there on the counter? It's enough to make you question your sanity.

Our brains are wired to make sense of the world around us, but sometimes they take a few shortcuts. They fill in the blanks, connect the dots, and create a narrative that might not be entirely accurate. It's like a magic trick and our brains are the magicians, and we're the easily fooled audience.

The Curious Case of the Ninja Sock Cat

Speaking of fooled, let me tell you about the time I thought a kid was running across the highway at night. It was about two in the morning and after a long day of work and then partying, I probably shouldn't have been out. 

It was late at night, and I was sure I saw a shadowy figure darting across the road. I pressed the brakes hard and performed a small swerve to avoid the 'perceived' kid. 

The real issue happened when my roommates woke up and was preparing to brace for anything but when I shared to them what I 'saw', there was no evidence to corroborate the story. 

Turns out, exhaustion can create your worst nightmares. Yeah, I know, I know... it probably wasn't exhaustion but in my defense, it was really dark out, and I really thought that I saw the kid. 

The whole thing was pretty embarrassing, but it also taught me a valuable lesson: sometimes the most logical explanation is the right one. That was a time that I couldn't convince them of my reality because there wasn't enough evidence.

When we explain our issues sometimes, we can't really describe the reality in a way that others can see it. So when the people in our lives attempt to give us advice, they are looking through their lens... not ours... and the advice can be waaay off! 

Outro

Tease next weeks podcast: Alright, folks, that's all the time we have for today. Next week, we pick back up with Perception is Reality talking about how our own senses can deceive us. If we can't trust our own senses... why should we trust what your senses are telling you to tell me? 

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The Just Two Cents podcast explores the art of giving, taking and throwing away advice. For over three decades, I've witnessed, participated, and received the dance of advice. From the well-meaning whispers of family to the polished pronouncements of professionals, I've seen countless attempts to guide, shape, and influence. Yet, the nagging truth remains that we often give advice poorly, with unintended consequences that ripple through our lives.

Advice should be tailored for effectiveness, not tossed like a life raft into a storm. It requires empathy, understanding, and a willingness to confront the potential pitfalls of our own biases and assumptions.

It's time we acknowledged the power of our words and embraced the responsibility that comes with offering advice – for the sake of ourselves and those we look to help.

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Just Two Cents - Trailer
 
Hey there, advice seekers. We all love giving advice, don't we? Whether it's dishing out relationship tips, career guidance, or even those unsolicited workout routines…we just can't resist sharing our two cents. This is Eric Ebron and welcome to the “Just Two Cents” podcast.

 Life throws a lot at you and everyone has an opinion. But here's the thing: Is our advice always golden? And how do we feel about taking advice from others? How do you know which advice to keep and which to toss. We're diving headfirst into the messy, hilarious, and sometimes life-changing world of advice.

 Get ready to laugh, cringe, and maybe even learn a thing or two about yourself. We will hear real stories of good advice gone bad, expert tips on how to give (and receive) feedback, and deep dives into when it's best to just keep those two cents to yourself. The goal is to help you be the CEO of your own decisions.

Tune in each week for expert guests, inciteful discussions and maybe some Dear Abby style segments. New episodes every Friday. Subscribe to "Just Two Cents," and remember that your journey is unique and the only two cents that matters, is yours.