Content Note: This episode includes conversations about addiction, mental health, and suicidal thoughts. Please take care while listening and skip this episode if these topics may be difficult for you. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988 in the U.S. to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with John Borden, author, mindset coach, endurance athlete, and founder of Get Psyched Fitness, for an honest conversation about addiction, mental health, personal growth, psychedelics, and what it really takes to transform your life from the inside out.

John shares his journey from struggling with addiction and unhealthy coping mechanisms to rebuilding his life through self-awareness, fitness, and intentional personal development. He opens up about the experiences that forced him to confront difficult truths, the lessons he learned along the way, and why true transformation starts with changing the way you think rather than simply changing your habits.

Adam and John dive into the role psychedelics played in John's healing journey, discussing psilocybin, mindset, and the importance of approaching personal growth with intention and responsibility. Together, they explore how self-reflection, accountability, and a willingness to face uncomfortable emotions can help people break destructive patterns and create lasting change.

The conversation also explores endurance sports, discipline, and the connection between physical challenges and mental resilience. John explains how pushing himself through ultramarathons, fitness competitions, and other demanding experiences has strengthened not only his body but also his mindset, reinforcing the belief that growth often happens outside of our comfort zones.

Throughout the episode, John shares practical insights on developing a healthier mindset, overcoming limiting beliefs, and discovering your purpose. Whether discussing addiction recovery, personal responsibility, or the power of consistent self-improvement, he encourages listeners to embrace the process of becoming the best version of themselves—one decision at a time.

If you've ever wondered how mindset influences every area of your life, what addiction recovery can teach us about personal growth, or how fitness and self-reflection can help create lasting change, this episode offers an honest and inspiring conversation about resilience, healing, and unlocking your full potential.

Get John’s Book here

Follow John on IG @‌johnniebe

Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions.

Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast:
Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/
Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast
Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast

Credits:
Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise and @‌tarayakisauce

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with Tim Cywinski, community organizer, former congressional candidate, for a wide-ranging conversation about money, power, data centers, and why our political system often seems designed to work for the people who already have the most. Tim draws on his experience in community organizing and running for Congress to explain why he believes changing politics starts with changing the rules—and challenging who gets to write them.

Adam and Tim dig into the growing controversy surrounding data centers in Virginia, corporate influence, environmental issues, and what happens when ordinary communities find themselves going up against powerful special interests. They also explore why working-class Americans often have more in common than our politics would suggest, how culture-war issues can distract from shared economic concerns, and why Democrats need a stronger unifying message that speaks to people across racial, geographic, and political divides.

The conversation also gets into the realities of running a grassroots political campaign, from fundraising barriers and party gatekeeping to the challenge of competing against candidates backed by established political networks. Tim reflects on what he learned from losing his congressional race, why he remains interested in supporting—and potentially becoming—part of a new wave of grassroots candidates, and why being a good leader doesn’t have to mean being soft when confronting people and systems that are causing harm.

If you’ve ever wondered how money influences American politics, why data centers have become such a controversial issue in Virginia, or whether grassroots candidates can actually change a political system built around money and power, this episode offers an unfiltered conversation about working-class politics, political reform, and what it might take to build a movement that brings people together instead of keeping them divided.

Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions.

Learn more about Tim Cywinski: @‌votetimva

Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions.

Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast:
Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/
Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast
Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast

Credits:
Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise and @‌tarayakisauce

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with Victoria Broderick, a progressive congressional candidate running in Tennessee’s 4th District, for a candid conversation about rural politics, voter suppression, working-class issues, and what it really takes to run for office while raising a family and working full-time. Victoria shares how a miscarriage, an unexpected pregnancy, and the overturning of Roe v. Wade pushed her from political engagement into activism—and eventually onto the ballot herself.

Victoria explains why she believes Tennessee isn’t simply a “red state,” but a state where voter suppression, redistricting, and years of political disengagement have kept many people from participating in elections. Adam and Victoria talk about rebuilding trust with rural voters, why Democrats need to invest in down-ballot races and local communities, and how showing up consistently has helped Victoria build support—even among Republican voters who may not identify with the progressive label but connect with progressive policies.

The conversation also gets personal as Victoria discusses the double standards women face when running for office, including questions about how she can possibly be a mother and serve in Congress at the same time. She explains why motherhood is actually one of her greatest strengths as a candidate and how her experiences with grocery prices, public schools, health care, and raising young children inform her approach to public service. Adam and Victoria also explore working-class progressive policies, money in politics, gun ownership, affordability, Social Security, and why elected officials should see themselves as public servants rather than people in positions of power.

If you’ve ever wondered whether progressive candidates can win rural voters, why voter turnout remains so low in states like Tennessee, or what it takes for an everyday working person to run for Congress, this episode offers a firsthand look at grassroots politics—and why Victoria believes lasting political change starts with showing up, organizing locally, and voting all the way down the ballot.

Learn more about Victoria Broderick here. 

Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions.

Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast:
Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/
Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast
Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast

Credits:
Mural: Tara Enneking  @‌taradiiiise and @‌tarayakisauce

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with Alex Rikleen, former candidate for the United States Senate in Massachusetts, for a candid conversation about running for political office, the Democratic Party, campaign finance, and what needs to change if Democrats want to build a stronger political movement. Alex shares how a lifelong interest in politics eventually led him to run for Senate—and why the 2024 election pushed him to stop watching from the sidelines and get involved.

Adam and Alex dig into what it's actually like to run for office, from the isolation candidates can experience to the challenges of taking on established political figures in a deep-blue state like Massachusetts. They also discuss the role money plays in elections, why Alex refused corporate PAC money during his campaign, and how campaign finance can influence both who is able to run for office and whose interests ultimately get represented.

The conversation then turns to the Democratic Party, political power, and the need for systemic reform. Adam and Alex discuss Citizens United, corporate influence in politics, congressional leadership, and why Alex believes Democrats need to be willing to challenge the status quo rather than simply protect existing institutions. They also take a deep dive into the Supreme Court, examining recent rulings on voting rights, reproductive rights, gun laws, and campaign finance—and making the case for expanding and reforming the Court.

If you've ever wondered what it's really like to run for political office, how corporate money influences American politics, or why Supreme Court reform has become such a major issue for progressives, this episode offers an inside look at the systems shaping our democracy—and what it may take to change them.

Learn more about Alex Rikleen:
Blue Sky: @rickleen.bsky.social
Instagram: @rickleenalex

Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions.

Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast:
Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/
Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast
Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast

Credits:
Mural: Tara Enneking  @‌taradiiiise and @‌tarayakisauce

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In Part 2 of Adam Tomlin's conversation with Kate Powell, the discussion picks up where they left off—taking a deeper dive into religious deconstruction, political identity, and the experiences that shaped Kate's worldview. What starts as a conversation about abundance versus scarcity quickly expands into a thoughtful exploration of how faith, politics, and personal values often become deeply intertwined.

Adam and Kate discuss the ways conservative and progressive ideologies approach community, opportunity, and power, and how those perspectives influenced Kate's own journey out of evangelical Christianity. They explore why questioning long-held beliefs can be uncomfortable, how spirituality and political views often evolve together, and why empathy, curiosity, and evidence became central to Kate's approach to understanding the world. Along the way, they touch on women's roles in society, systemic inequality, environmental stewardship, and the importance of challenging ideas rather than simply accepting them.

As the conversation continues, Kate shares how her political deconstruction closely followed her religious deconstruction and why both journeys ultimately led her to reevaluate the values she wanted to live by. The episode closes with a teaser for the next chapter of her story as she begins to unpack the pivotal experiences that first caused her to question the beliefs she'd held for most of her life.

If you've ever wondered why so many people are deconstructing their faith, how religion can shape political beliefs, or what happens when you're willing to question everything you've been taught, this episode offers an honest, thought-provoking conversation about identity, personal growth, and finding the courage to think for yourself.

Learn more about Kate Powell: @‌kate_forthepeople on IG or https://substack.com/@kateforthepeople

Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions.

Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast:
Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/
Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast
Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast

Credits:
Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise and @‌tarayakisauce

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this special Part 1 of a two-part conversation, host Adam Tomlin sits down with Kate Powell, political content creator, former youth pastor, and advocate for thoughtful civic engagement. Kate shares her journey growing up in evangelical Christianity and how her experiences with faith, politics, and community shaped the person she is today. What begins as a conversation about her upbringing quickly unfolds into a thoughtful discussion about identity, curiosity, and questioning long-held beliefs.

Adam and Kate explore what it was like growing up in the Bible Belt, serving in youth ministry, and navigating the expectations placed on young people within religious communities. They discuss how faith and politics often become intertwined, the challenges of deconstructing beliefs you've held your entire life, and why asking difficult questions can lead to deeper understanding instead of division. Along the way, they touch on purity culture, gender roles, empathy, and the importance of giving yourself permission to grow.

As this first half of the conversation comes to a close, Kate reflects on how her experiences continue to shape the way she approaches political conversations today. It's an honest discussion about changing perspectives, embracing nuance, and recognizing that personal growth often begins when we're willing to listen, learn, and challenge our own assumptions. And this is only the beginning—Part 2 dives even deeper into the conversation.

If you've ever wondered how faith influences political identity, what it really means to deconstruct your beliefs, or how life experiences can reshape the way you see the world, this episode offers an honest, thoughtful conversation that will leave you eager for Part 2.

Learn more about Kate Powell: @‌kate_forthepeople on IG or https://substack.com/@kateforthepeople

Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions.

Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast:
Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/
Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast
Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast

Credits:
Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise and @‌tarayakisauce

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with Colonel Bree Fram, former congressional candidate for the Commonwealth of Virginia, active-duty military officer, engineer, and advocate, for a thoughtful conversation about public service, democracy, leadership, constitutional reform, and creating a more inclusive future.

Bree shares her journey from military service to running for Congress, explaining what motivated her to step into the political arena and why she believes public service extends far beyond holding elected office. She reflects on the importance of leading with integrity, embracing authenticity, and remaining committed to serving others even in today's increasingly polarized political climate.

Adam and Bree dive into the foundations of American democracy, discussing the U.S. Constitution, the balance of power between the branches of government, voting rights, and the challenges facing democratic institutions today. Together, they explore why civic engagement matters, how constitutional guardrails protect democracy, and what reforms could help strengthen the nation's future while preserving its core principles.

The conversation also explores representation, equality, and the importance of ensuring government works for all Americans. Bree shares her perspective on constitutional amendments, civil rights, and why expanding opportunities for participation creates stronger communities and more resilient democratic institutions. Throughout the discussion, she emphasizes the value of respectful dialogue, critical thinking, and finding common ground despite political differences.

Whether discussing military leadership, running for Congress, or the responsibilities that come with citizenship, Adam and Bree encourage listeners to stay informed, remain engaged, and recognize that meaningful change begins with everyday people who are willing to step forward and serve their communities.

If you've ever wondered what motivates someone to run for Congress, how constitutional reform could shape America's future, or why civic engagement remains one of the most powerful tools for protecting democracy, this episode offers an honest and thought-provoking conversation about leadership, public service, and creating lasting change.

Learn more about Colonel Bree Fram:
IG @‌bree.fram
Website breefram.com
Substack

Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions.

Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast:
Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/
Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast
Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast

Credits:
Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise and @‌tarayakisauce

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with Connor Eppley, Finance Director of the Virginia Young Democrats and President of the Hampton Roads Young Democrats, for an engaging conversation about public speaking, political leadership, civic engagement, and the importance of inspiring more young people to get involved in their communities.

Adam and Connor dive into the world of political organizing, discussing campaign work, leadership within the Virginia Young Democrats and Hampton Roads Young Democrats, and the role young leaders play in shaping the future of civic engagement. Connor explains why building relationships, developing communication skills, and learning to lead behind the scenes are just as important as standing at a podium.

The conversation also explores today's political climate, voter engagement, and the future of the Democratic Party. Adam and Connor discuss the importance of motivating young voters, building authentic connections within communities, and why successful political movements require more than simply appealing to the political center. Throughout the episode, Connor emphasizes the value of thoughtful leadership, preparation, and staying focused on creating meaningful change at the local level.

Whether they're discussing speech competitions, campaign strategy, or the next generation of political leaders, Adam and Connor highlight the importance of confidence, resilience, and continuous growth. Their conversation offers practical advice for anyone looking to become a stronger communicator, a more effective leader, or someone who wants to make a difference in their community.

If you've ever wondered how to become a more confident public speaker, what life is really like behind the scenes of political campaigns, or why young leaders are essential to the future of civic engagement, this episode offers an honest and insightful conversation about leadership, communication, and taking action.

Learn more about Connor Eppley: @‌connoreppleyva

Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions.

Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast:
Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/
Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast
Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast

Credits:
Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise and @‌tarayakisauce

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with Jayveon Tucker, President of the Norfolk State Young Democrats, for a candid conversation about youth engagement, political leadership, grassroots organizing, and what motivates the next generation to get involved in shaping their communities.

Jayveon shares his unlikely journey into politics, explaining how he wasn't inspired by a political party at all—but by an independent candidate who showed him the power of authentic leadership and grassroots organizing. What started as volunteering on campaigns as a teenager eventually led to him helping recharter the Norfolk State Young Democrats and becoming one of the leading student voices in Virginia politics.

Adam and Jayveon dive into the realities of political organizing on college campuses, discussing voter turnout, civic engagement, and why so many young people feel disconnected from the political process. Jayveon explains how student organizations can serve as a bridge between politics and everyday life, helping young voters understand how local and state elections impact their futures.

The conversation also explores leadership development, mentorship, and the importance of creating opportunities for the next generation. Jayveon shares why political organizations need to invest in young people through internships, fellowships, and mentorship rather than simply expecting volunteers to carry the workload. Together, he and Adam discuss the value of preparing future leaders, building sustainable organizations, and creating pathways for young people to make meaningful contributions.

Adam and Jayveon also tackle larger political topics, including political polarization, representation, race in politics, campaign strategy, and the challenges facing both political parties. Throughout the conversation, Jayveon emphasizes the importance of holding leaders accountable, engaging in thoughtful debate, and remaining focused on policies that improve people's lives regardless of political affiliation.

If you've ever wondered how young people get involved in politics, what grassroots organizing actually looks like, or why civic engagement matters at the local level, this episode offers an honest and insightful look at leadership, advocacy, and creating change from the ground up.

Learn more about Jayveon Tucker:

@‌Jayveonforva

@‌pres.jnt

@‌nsuyoungdemocrats

Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions.

Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast:
Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/
Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast
Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast

Credits:
Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise and @‌tarayakisauce

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with Steven Swank, president of the ODU Democrats, for a wide-ranging conversation about political identity, civic engagement, religion, education, and what motivates people to get involved in the political process.

Steven shares his journey from growing up in a conservative Christian household in Indiana to becoming a politically active college student and leader on campus. He reflects on how family influences, media consumption, religion, and personal experiences shaped his early beliefs and what ultimately led him to reevaluate them. Along the way, he discusses the challenges of changing your mind, questioning long-held assumptions, and finding your own values.

Adam and Steven dive into the realities of rebuilding a student political organization, registering voters, and encouraging civic participation among young people. They discuss the political apathy that exists on many college campuses, why some students choose not to engage in politics, and what can be done to inspire greater involvement in local and national issues.

The conversation also explores education, science, and the growing distrust of institutions in American society. Steven shares his thoughts on anti-intellectualism, public education, misinformation, scientific literacy, and why he believes changing your opinion in response to new information should be viewed as a strength rather than a weakness.

Adam and Steven discuss religion and faith, comparing their experiences growing up in religious households and eventually identifying as atheists. Together, they examine how faith, morality, and personal values intersect with politics and how their worldviews have evolved over time.

The episode also tackles larger questions about economics, inequality, political messaging, and the future of American democracy. From healthcare and education to political polarization and voter engagement, Adam and Steven explore the challenges facing the country and what they believe is needed to create a more informed and engaged society.

Whether you agree with their perspectives or not, this episode offers an honest conversation about politics, civic responsibility, and the importance of questioning assumptions, staying informed, and participating in the democratic process.

Learn more about Steven Swank and the ODU Democrats: @odudems

Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions.

Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast:
Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/
Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast
Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast

Credits:
Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise and @‌tarayakisauce