Love, Life and Lies

Join us on an incredible journey through the Lone Star State with esteemed guest Brad Leland, best known for his roles in Friday Night Lights, Hancock, Deep Water Horizon and the HBO Max series Love and Death. Expect a fascinating tour through the dynamic history of Texas, from the iconic Alamo to the six flags that flew over it, shaped by the spirit of freedom and democracy. We'll also draw interesting parallels with the manufacturing history of Detroit.

Tuning into this episode, you'll be pulled into the unique world of Texas' high school sports scene. Brad brings his personal experiences to the table, giving us an inside look into the influence of affluence, the pressures of specialization, and the dynamics of teams in this state's high school sports environment. Ever wondered about the legendary coaches, like Bear Bryant, Tom Landry, and Brad's own coach, John Clark, whose leadership profoundly impacted their players? We've got you covered. 

As we wrap up, we'll touch on Brad's personal stories, his relationship with Coach Clark, and the significant role of parental involvement in youth sports. And let's not forget the iconic Texas culture - beloved sports teams, an unforgettable music scene in Austin, and legendary musicians. Whether you're a Texan or not, this episode will ignite your curiosity and leave you with a newfound appreciation for Texas. Be prepared for some incredible insights and a whole lot of Texas pride!

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Prepare to be transported into the life of celebrated actor Brad Leland, as we journey through his illustrious career and personal experiences. Brad, known for his memorable roles in films such as Friday Night Lights, Hancock and Deepwater Horizon, gives us an intimate look into his start in the industry, transition into television and film, and the joys and challenges that come with it. From nerve-wracking auditions to unforgettable collaborations, Brad's insight into the industry is both enlightening and thrilling.

On a trip down memory lane, we visit Brad's high school days in Texas, the state championship football game he missed and the encounters with his former Friday Night Lights colleagues. You'll be captivated as Brad reminisces about his favorite roles and the adrenaline rush of performing 55 shows in 30 days. We also unravel the distinct energy between theatre and film and the impact it has on audience connection and the overall performance. 

But it's not just about the past, we also delve into the present and the ripple effect of COVID-19 on the industry. Brad shares how auditioning and working on a television show or movie has been affected, shifting the dynamics of the industry. As if that wasn't enough, Brad also shares some of his coolest celebrity encounters and fan interactions. From receiving personalized gifts from the Texas Rangers to attending star-studded sports banquets. Lastly, we talk about the importance of social interaction in a world where personal contact is becoming a luxury. Tune in as we discover Brad's unforgettable line from Friday Night Lights and reflect on the need for people to be around each other.

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The phrase "Men are Pigs" succinctly encapsulates the core of masculinity. Widely used and often unquestioned, it reflects an inherent aspect of most men, deeply embedded within their DNA. Although varying degrees exist, this notion derives from a primal instinct that governs their actions. How each man chooses to navigate and handle this instinct is a personal journey left to his own discretion. 

In an intriguing conversation led by Kevin Evans and Callie, differing perspectives and anecdotes combine to shed light on and dissect the behaviors exhibited by men, making this discussion riveting for both women and men alike.

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Women.  That simple word can can elicit a range of emotions for a man.  Love, Lust, Fantasy, Frustration, Fear, Confusion, Hope, Anger, the list is endless.  Why is that?  Why are women so complicated and do what they do.  The answer is both simple and complicated.  On some fronts, men are responsible.

Host Kevin Evans has his friend Callie join him to discuss why women are so complicated and helps provide some insight.  It is sure to spark controversy.  Some will agree, some will not, but it is sure to open debate.

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The word "chase" is often used  in dating.  It's a simplistic term, but often used incorrectly.  There is a distinct difference between chasing someone and pursuing.

Puppies chase, Lions pursue.  The difference is huge and can define the seductive dance of dating, relationships and can help identify "nice guys" vs "bad boys".  

In this episode, Callie joins Kevin Evans to discuss the differences in Chasing vs Pursuing, but also identify the confusion in identifying the differences of Nice vs Kind,  Bad Boys, False Alphas, Players, Manipulators, Narcissists.  The "game" is broken down and why  and how it's needed to be played.

Women tend to seek three initial things: Confidence, Protection and Humor.  If a man has those three characteristics, he often has that often successful first impression.

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Is your relationship based on Lust or is it Love?  Do you know the difference?  There are elements of Lust in Love.  What is the difference?

Lust is about intense sexual gratification.  Love is about an intense feeling of affection.  Lust is more about immediacy, whereas Love is more about growth and more complex than Lust.

Lust:

• Not interested in the other's personal life
• Not interested in long term future
• Deep conversations aren't important and/or don't occur
• You don't see and/or don't want to see flaws in the other person
• Jealous and protective
• Obsessive behavior
• Hides true self
• More Selfish
• Doesn't care about others
• Isn't interested in being seen as a couple.  Only seeks private time.
• Nice guy syndrome is a form of lust

Love:

• Okay with the process.  Doesn't need immediate gratification
• Deep, complex conversations are welcomed
• Selfless
• Based on reality, while Lust is based on fantasy
• True partnership
• Grows stronger over time. Lust weakens
• Comfortable showing vulnerability and accepting the others' faults
• Cuddling is okay.  Just being with the other person is okay
• Sex isn't the overall driving force
• Unconditional love exists.  Unconditional Lust does not

With Love, a person appreciates and sees the entire painting.  Lust is only taking a small piece of the painting.

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Communication takes many forms and is both Verbal AND Non-Verbal.  Studies suggest that approximately 65% of communication occurs nonverbally and most only remember or retain between 25% and 50% of what they hear.

Many are oblivious to understanding nonverbal cues, therefore miss out on critical information.  Most don't realize what information they are giving with body movements.  Some are more profound than others,

Non-Verbal areas of focus include:

• Eyes - Are they directed at you?  Where do they look when answering a question?
• Head movement.  Are they nodding in agreement?
• Lips.  Do they smile?  Is it a sincere smile or forced?
• Feet.  Where are they pointed?  When seated, what is happening?
• Legs.  Which way are they crossed?  Are the knees closed or open?
• Arms.  Are they crossed in a defensive posture?
• Hands.  What are they doing?

Too many people focus only on what is happening verbally and are only focused on themselves, rather than having a true conversation.  They often more focused on what they want to say rather than the messages in the conversation.

Verbally, folks could be so much better if they practiced some basic skills:

• Listen - Listen - Listen.
• Shut up and wait until the other person finishes speaking.  Don't talk over them.
• Ask open ended questions and ask follow up questions.
• Paraphrase what you think you heard and get agreement.
• Don't try to One-Up the speaker.  It's not a competition.
• Don't turn it around and try to make it about yourself.
• Don't dismiss or minimize the other person's concerns as a way to sooth them.
• Don't lecture, Insult or give advice unless it's requested.
• Follow up if they are hurting and don't commit to an action you can't do.

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Special guest Tim Roberts joins Kevin Evans to discuss the secrets of making a long term relationship work.  Tim has been married for 40 years, has five children and eight grandkids.  Kevin got divorced after a 23 year marriage and is now dating again.

There is no such thing as a perfect relationship.  It's a fallacy and takes effort, commitment and determination by both parties to make it work.

There are three stages in a relationship:  Honeymoon Phase; Family Phase;  Empty Nester Phase.  Most are prepared for the first two, but don't prepare for the third.

To have a successful relationship, a couple needs to focus on making it work and avoiding pitfalls. 

Secrets of a successful relationship include:

• Communication:  Listen and practice empathy
• Honesty.  Your partner is your confidant
• Praise in public, Criticize in private
• Trust.  Respect boundaries
• Fight fair.  Don't name call or rehash past infractions
• Don't go to bed angry
• Grow as a person and couple, don't CHANGE. There is a difference
• Compromise and balance
• Intimacy is critical, both physical and emotional
• Keep romance alive.  Water and fertilize the relationship
• Don't compare the relationship or your partner to others
• Support

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Dating a professional in the service industry can be challenging.  The fast paced, high stress, late hours and weekends often puts stress on relationships and most aren't strong enough to deal with the challenge.

Bartenders are often great folks and have to deal with many different personalities while serving the public and making them feels special.  Most don't understand the profession or the folks that work in the industry.

Nate Nguyen from Shakespeare's Pub on historic 6th Street in Austin, Texas talks about the industry and the challenges of dating a professional in the industry.

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Bartenders see it all.  Nate Nguyen of Shakespeare's Pub on historic 6th Street in Austin Texas shares his experience, insights and observations on interactions between men and women.

Sixth Street is known as THE place in Austin for entertainment, music, bars  and pubs.  On any given weekend, thousands of people flock to the area.  Both men and women make mistakes, do stupid things and get into trouble.  Learn what happens, what to avoid, what to do, what not to do and how to have a better experience.

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