Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam sits down with longtime educator John “Johnny Danger” Donegan to explore teaching, learning, and how schools shape communities. Together, they dive into classroom realities, the evolution of middle schoolers over four decades, and what “school choice” really looks like on the ground. Expect candid conversation, humor, and heartfelt stories from a teacher who spent 42 years helping students think critically, laugh often, and grow up well.

Adam and Mr. Donegan share personal tales from the front lines of education—subbing chaos to department-chair mentorship, building stable faculties, and why class size matters more than slogans. They unpack public vs. private schooling, vouchers, and magnet programs; how resources, family safety nets, and opportunity gaps change a kid’s trajectory; and the practical craft of teaching: mixing lecture, visuals, and group work so every learner finds a way in. Along the way: baseball dreams, parking-lot lesson plans, and the art of keeping a straight face when seventh-graders weaponize fart jokes.

Listeners will gain insights into how leveling and mixed-ability classes work in practice, why stable staffing and administrative support transform schools, the trade-offs behind vouchers and funding formulas, and concrete ways teachers foster critical thinking without political tribalism. Adam and Mr. Donogan also discuss media literacy, sourcing facts (beyond Wikipedia), and the power of connection—why you often have to touch a heart before you can change a mind.

Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, life lessons, or bold ideas, 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
Music: Matt Hobbs @‌matthobbs & Puppy Songs @‌puppysongs

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam sits down with Dr. Alan Barnes, family physician and Cartersville local, to explore healthcare, community, and returning to one’s roots. Together, they dive into small-town life, medical practice, and personal experiences that shaped Alan’s career. Expect candid conversation, humor, and heartfelt stories about medicine, entrepreneurship, and the impact of community.

Adam and Alan share personal tales from Alan’s journey through medical school, residency, and establishing his own direct primary care practice, including the challenges of healthcare bureaucracy, navigating insurance systems, and finding fulfillment in patient relationships. They also reflect on the nostalgia of growing up in Cartersville, maintaining lifelong friendships, and raising a family in a hometown that continues to grow and evolve. With honesty, humor, and practical insight, this episode explores how intentional living, relationships, and professional autonomy can guide both personal and professional growth.

Listeners will gain insights into the differences between fee-for-service and direct primary care models, how healthcare systems impact doctors and patients, the importance of building strong community connections, and lessons from balancing family, career, and entrepreneurship. Adam and Alan also discuss small-town life, rural healthcare challenges, patient care philosophy, and why pursuing your own path in medicine can lead to both personal satisfaction and professional success.

For more from Dr. Alan Barnes and to explore his direct primary care practice, visit Georgia Direct Family Care.

Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, life lessons, or bold ideas, 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
Music: Matt Hobbs @‌matthobbs & Puppy Songs @‌puppysongs

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam sits down with Craig Seligman, seasoned financial advisor at Proactive Wealth Strategies, to explore investing, market psychology, and making smart financial decisions. Together, they dive into the economy, stock market trends, and personal experiences that shaped Craig’s career. Expect candid conversation, humor, and insightful stories about money, risk, and long-term strategy.

Adam and Craig share personal tales from Craig’s 30+ years as a financial advisor, including his early lessons in the industry, navigating market downturns, and understanding the real-life impact of financial decisions. They also discuss why technology has transformed investing, how most people make common mistakes like buying high and selling low, and the importance of time in the market versus trying to time the market. With honesty, humor, and practical insight, this episode explores how thoughtful planning, education, and perspective can guide both financial and personal growth.

Listeners will gain insights into starting investing even on a modest income, understanding the difference between the economy and the stock market, building a long-term investment strategy, and why having a trusted advisor can help prevent costly mistakes. Adam and Craig also discuss Roth IRAs, ETFs, risk management, market bubbles, and the psychological side of investing, providing actionable advice for both new and experienced investors.

For more from Craig Seligman and to explore Proactive Wealth Strategies, visit www.pwsatlanta.com

Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, life lessons, or bold ideas, 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
Music: Matt Hobbs @‌matthobbs & Puppy Songs @‌puppysongs

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam sits down with Phil Ramos, a Bronx-to-New Jersey native, traveler, and advocate for authentic experiences, to explore his fascinating perspectives on life, family, and personal growth. Together, they discuss their upbringings around police officers, shadow boxing and SWAT simulations, and how Phil’s family history shaped his understanding of the American dream. Expect candid conversation, humor, and eye-opening stories that blend real-world experiences with reflections on personal development and wellbeing.

Adam and Phil compare personal tales from growing up in Cartersville, GA and New York/New Jersey, respectively, navigating cultural identity, and discovering the importance of internal security over external validation. They also explore the art of traveling off the beaten path, finding authentic local experiences, building meaningful friendships, and fostering mental wellness through exercise, routines, and community. With raw honesty, actionable takeaways, and engaging anecdotes, this episode shows how curiosity, courage, and perspective can guide both personal and professional growth.

Listeners will gain insights into the complexities of cultural identity, generational perspectives on the American dream, authentic travel experiences, building supportive communities, managing anxiety, and redefining masculinity in modern life. Adam and Phil also discuss self-awareness, mental health strategies, and ways to cultivate internal security while navigating today’s fast-paced world.

For more from Phil Ramos and to explore his travel and lifestyle insights, connect with him on social media [insert links if available].

Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, life lessons, or bold ideas, 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
Music: Matt Hobbs @‌matthobbs & Puppy Songs @‌puppysongs

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam sits down with Russell Kramer, longtime friend, former fraternity brother, and thoughtful confidant, to explore the evolution of friendship, personal growth, and navigating grief over the years. Together, they reflect on college memories, life challenges, and the ways relationships shape who we are. Expect candid conversation, humor, and heartfelt stories about connection, loss, and the lessons learned along the way.

Adam and Russell share personal tales from their college years at Oglethorpe University, including unforgettable road trips, quirky fraternity traditions, and early lessons in authenticity and social dynamics. They also discuss life-altering experiences, like navigating the loss of loved ones, becoming a step-parent, and building meaningful connections as adults. With raw honesty, humor, and thoughtful reflection, this episode explores how friendship, patience, and self-awareness can guide personal and relational growth.

Listeners will gain insights into building lasting friendships, coping with grief, embracing authenticity, and balancing life’s responsibilities with meaningful relationships. Adam and Russell also discuss family dynamics, the challenges and joys of step-parenting, and how shared history can create a foundation for lifelong support and trust.

For more from Russell Kramer and to explore his perspectives on friendship and personal growth, connect with him through the ACT OUT podcast.

Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, life lessons, or bold ideas, 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
Music: Matt Hobbs @‌matthobbs & Puppy Songs @‌puppysongs

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam sits down with Gena Somra, award-winning executive producer at CNN and Reiki Master with healing hands, to explore her fascinating journey from global journalism to the metaphysical world of Reiki, tarot, and intuitive counseling. Together, they discuss how Gena navigated her early career challenges, worked on impactful stories like Maiti Nepal, and discovered a path toward holistic healing and energy work. Expect candid conversation, humor, and eye-opening stories that blend real-world experiences with spiritual growth.

Adam and Gena share personal tales from journalism, including reporting in Nepal and Yemen, working with powerful humanitarian organizations, and the highs and lows of storytelling in high-pressure environments. They also explore her transition into Reiki and tarot, how she discovered her intuitive gifts, and practical insights on energy work for empaths. With raw honesty, actionable takeaways, and engaging anecdotes, this episode shows how curiosity, courage, and personal reflection can guide both professional and personal transformation.

Listeners will gain insights into the complexities of journalism, building trust in the media, the impact of storytelling, and how to incorporate holistic practices into everyday life. Adam and Gena also discuss intuition, personal growth, and ways to use energy awareness for emotional and spiritual wellbeing.

For more from Gena Somra and to explore her offerings, visit Spiritual Light Wisdom.

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

Resources & Organizations Mentioned:
Maiti Nepal: @‌maitinapal

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

Credits
Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise and @‌tarayakisauce
Music: Matt Hobbs @‌matthobbs & Puppy Songs @‌puppysongs

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with long-time friend LeVar Woods to discuss the challenges of learning, ego, and embracing mistakes. Together, they explore how early experiences shape our mindset, why we unconsciously protect our egos, and what success really looks like when measured by personal values rather than traditional standards. Expect candid conversation, humor, and thought-provoking insights that blend personal reflection with real-life lessons.

Adam and LeVar share stories from school, grad school, parenting, and even wrestling legends from Minnesota. They dive into the pressure of effortless success, how mistakes can feel like threats, and the ways reflection and self-awareness can help us grow. With relatable humor, raw honesty, and actionable takeaways, this episode makes personal growth feel accessible, empowering, and even a little fun.

Listeners will gain insights into protecting the ego, embracing mistakes as opportunities, redefining success on their own terms, and the importance of community and personal reflection. Adam and LeVar also highlight how parenting and personal growth intersect, showing that learning from the past can set you up for meaningful success today.

Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, life lessons, or bold ideas, 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
Music: Matt Hobbs @‌matthobbs & Puppy Songs @‌puppysongs

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with licensed therapist Kathleen Forrest to tackle the myths and stigma surrounding therapy—especially for men. Together, they explore what therapy really looks like, why vulnerability is a strength, and how prioritizing mental health can transform your relationships, work, and sense of self. Expect candid conversation, humor, and thought-provoking insights that challenge the idea that “real men don’t need help.”

Adam and Kathleen share personal stories, dive into the therapist-client dynamic, and unpack how emotional boundaries actually work in therapy. They discuss why therapy isn’t just “for women” and show how men can approach mental health without shame. With practical takeaways and lighter, relatable moments, this episode makes emotional growth feel accessible, empowering, and even a little fun.

Listeners will gain insights into common misconceptions about therapy, how men face unique mental health challenges, and the liberating power of vulnerability in personal growth. Adam and Kathleen also highlight real-life experiences from both sides of the therapy couch, showing that taking care of your mind is a sign of strength—not weakness.

Check out Kathleen’s work and connect with her at Radiant Life Counseling.

Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, life lessons, or bold ideas, ACT OUT is your space to rethink masculinity, embrace personal growth, 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
Music: Matt Hobbs @‌matthobbs & Puppy Songs @‌puppysongs

Welcome to the ACT OUT podcast! In this intro episode, host Adam Tomlin shares why the podcast exists and what listeners can expect. Broadcasting from Tidewater, Virginia, Adam challenges traditional ideas of male strength and shows that true power comes from compassion, vulnerability, and authenticity.

Adam reflects on his personal journey of letting go of the “real men don’t show emotions” mindset, exploring how holding feelings in only led to stress, back pain, and expensive therapy bills. Through self-reflection and therapy, he realized that the strongest muscle is your heart and that true strength comes from being honest, open, and vulnerable.

In this episode, Adam also shares his theory that authenticity is contagious: by being himself, he creates space for others to feel comfortable being themselves, too. Expect humor, empathy, and thought-provoking insights as Adam invites listeners to rethink masculinity, embrace personal growth, and act out their passions.

He also dives into his love of freedom and the American dream, sharing stories from childhood to adulthood that shaped his perspective on pursuing happiness in a world full of obstacles. This episode lays the foundation for conversations that challenge the status quo, spotlight passions, and encourage listeners to embrace their own authenticity.

Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, life lessons, or bold ideas, ACT OUT is your space to explore what it means to be genuinely strong in today’s world.

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
Music: Matt Hobbs @‌matthobbs & Puppy Songs @‌puppysongs

On the ACT OUT podcast, Adam talks to people about their passions and how they relate to our world today. Expect honest conversations, humor, and a little sarcasm as guests share their stories, perspectives, and lessons. We’re here to challenge narratives, celebrate authenticity, inspire listeners to live unapologetically as themselves, and spark a feeling of connection and hope with the audience.

Episodes usually feature Adam and one guest in a colorful, conversational setting, with new episodes dropping every Thursday. Adam’s humor, empathy, and insightful sarcasm make each conversation engaging, relatable, and thought-provoking.

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
Music: Matt Hobbs @‌matthobbs & Puppy Songs @‌puppysongs