The Authentic Only Show

The Authentic Only Show

By Joey ChmikoSociety & Culture
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The Authentic Only Show episodes

  • Election Wrap-up Special; Part 1

    In this two-part special, Joey sits down with the ever-controversial content creator @tony.certainly for a deep dive into the results of the 2024 general election. Together, they tackle the incoming cabinet picks and unpack the widening urban-rural political divide, shedding light on how geography continues to shape America’s political landscape.

    The conversation delves into the shifting Overton window in American politics, exploring how public discourse and policy priorities are evolving in real time. They also take a hard look at the influence of dark money in shaping elections and policy, focusing on groups like AIPAC, Big Pharma, and the lasting repercussions of the Citizens United ruling.

    This thought-provoking episode offers a critical analysis of the forces at play behind the scenes of democracy and is sure to spark conversation among listeners. With sharp insights, candid moments, and a few controversial takes, this two-part series is not to be missed.

    Highlights - 🗳️

    • Election Recap: A breakdown of the 2024 general election results.
    • Cabinet Picks: Early thoughts on what the new administration’s picks reveal about the direction of the government.
    • Urban vs. Rural Divide: A discussion on how geography continues to drive political polarization.
    • Overton Window: A look at how public discourse is shifting and what’s considered politically possible in America today.
    • Dark Money Influence: A deep dive into the role of AIPAC, Big Pharma, and the Citizens United ruling on campaign financing and policy.

      • Whether you're a political junkie or just looking for a nuanced take on the state of democracy, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in for part one now! 🎙️

      1 hr 49 min
    • Return of the Chronic Gals; Ashleen and Rileigh Aguilar

      Join us for a lively conversation with returning guests Ashleen and Rileigh Aguilar, the dynamic sister duo behind the Chronic Gals podcast and Take Root Training! In this episode, the Chronic Gals dive into their journey in podcasting, their mission to educate bartenders about cannabis, and how their latest venture, Talking Potheads, aims to raise the standard of cannabis knowledge in the service industry. With their signature humor, they take on topics like EMPs, Nikola Tesla’s innovations, and what life would look like without electricity, blending playful banter with thought-provoking insights.

      Highlights - 🎙️

      • Podcasting Evolution: Ashleen and Rileigh share their journey as Chronic Gals and the growth of their podcast.
      • Take Root Training: Their educational company focused on bringing cannabis knowledge to bartenders.
      • Talking Potheads: A new project that aims to improve dispensary bartender training.
      • EMPs & Tesla Talk: Lighthearted banter on electromagnetic pulses and Nikola Tesla’s legacy.
      • Vape Culture: Insights on current trends and discussions around vaping.

        • Key Insights - 💡

        • Educational Influence: Emphasizing the need for cannabis education in bartending to elevate service and standardize knowledge.
        • Humor Meets Education: How humor makes complex topics more accessible, creating a relaxed learning environment.
        • Cultural & Science References: Blending EMPs, Tesla, and cannabis to show how pop culture meets science in everyday chats.
        • Sustainability in Energy: Reflecting on Tesla’s work and the modern shift towards renewable energy.
        • Trend Insight: Vaping discussion showcases shifts in consumer preferences and responsible usage education.
        • Sisterly Bond: Ashleen and Rileigh’s sisterly dynamic brings a unique touch to their business and podcast endeavors.
        • Community Focus: Their commitment to cannabis education highlights the importance of engaging communities to enhance industry standards.

          • Tune in to catch Ashleen and Rileigh’s unique blend of humor, knowledge, and sibling energy as they break down complex topics and keep it real!

          2 hr 49 min
        • Steven Zylstra Part 2

          In this heartfelt and insightful episode of The Authentic Only Show, host Joey C sits down with Steven Zylstra to explore life beyond retirement and the challenges of navigating a changing business landscape. As the former owner of a family-run ornamental metal fabrication business, Faroe Iron, Steven shares stories about craftsmanship, the impact of cheap imports, and his ongoing involvement in his son’s business. The conversation is full of thoughtful reflections on family legacy, business challenges, and even a humorous debate over the perfect scone.
          Highlights - 🗣️
          Guest Introduction: Steven Zylstra shares his initial hesitance to join the podcast, hinting at the vulnerability that comes with sharing personal stories.
          Life Experiences: Steven reflects on a lifetime of experiences, revealing the twists and turns that have shaped his journey.
          Retirement Conversations: Despite being retired, Steven remains deeply connected to the business world through his daily discussions with his son.
          Family Legacy: The transition of Faroe Iron to the next generation highlights the complexities and pride of running a family business.
          Craftsmanship vs. Cheap Imports: Steven delves into the impact of globalization, lamenting the decline of traditional metalwork in favor of cheaper overseas products.
          Sustainability in Food: A thought-provoking conversation about organic food and sustainability sheds light on how authenticity can often get lost in marketing buzzwords.
          Scone Showdown: A light-hearted debate about scone quality serves as a fun reminder that even simple things—like properly baking a scone—can evoke strong opinions.
          Key Insights - 💡
          The Hesitancy to Share: Steven’s initial reluctance to open up reflects a common challenge with vulnerability, underscoring the importance of creating safe spaces for sharing stories.
          Retirement’s New Role: Retirement doesn’t mark the end of meaningful contributions. Steven’s mentorship role in his son’s business exemplifies the value of passing down knowledge and remaining engaged.
          Family Business Transitions: The conversation highlights the joys and challenges of maintaining a family-owned business while adapting to new market realities.
          Globalization and Craftsmanship: Steven’s reflections on the ornamental metal industry illustrate the struggles traditional artisans face against the influx of cheaper, mass-produced imports.
          Price vs. Quality in Food: The discussion about food sustainability demonstrates how consumers often prioritize affordability over quality, sometimes at the expense of tradition and authenticity.
          Authenticity in Sustainability: The exchange about organic practices emphasizes the importance of transparency and genuine sustainability in both business and food industries.
          Humor in Culinary Debates: The playful argument over scones adds a touch of levity, showing how food can spark passionate (and sometimes hilarious) conversations.
          A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Family
          This episode offers a window into the life of a man who has seen the evolution of business, family, and craftsmanship firsthand. Steven Zylstra’s reflections remind us that retirement is not the end of our story but a new chapter for mentorship and legacy. His thoughts on the challenges of modern business practices and the importance of quality—whether in metalwork, food, or relationships—resonate with anyone navigating change in their personal or professional lives.
          With a blend of wisdom, humor, and heart, this conversation invites listeners to reflect on their own journeys, family legacies, and the importance of staying true to one’s values in an ever-changing world.
          Tune in to The Authentic Only Show for more candid conversations like this one. And don’t forget—whether it’s a well-crafted metal piece or a perfect scone, quality matters. 🎧


          1 hr 45 min
        • Steven Zylstra Part 1

          In this heartfelt and insightful episode of The Authentic Only Show, host Joey C sits down with Steven Zylstra to explore life beyond retirement and the challenges of navigating a changing business landscape. As the former owner of a family-run ornamental metal fabrication business, Faroe Iron, Steven shares stories about craftsmanship, the impact of cheap imports, and his ongoing involvement in his son’s business. The conversation is full of thoughtful reflections on family legacy, business challenges, and even a humorous debate over the perfect scone.
          Highlights - 🗣️
          Guest Introduction: Steven Zylstra shares his initial hesitance to join the podcast, hinting at the vulnerability that comes with sharing personal stories.
          Life Experiences: Steven reflects on a lifetime of experiences, revealing the twists and turns that have shaped his journey.
          Retirement Conversations: Despite being retired, Steven remains deeply connected to the business world through his daily discussions with his son.
          Family Legacy: The transition of Faroe Iron to the next generation highlights the complexities and pride of running a family business.
          Craftsmanship vs. Cheap Imports: Steven delves into the impact of globalization, lamenting the decline of traditional metalwork in favor of cheaper overseas products.
          Sustainability in Food: A thought-provoking conversation about organic food and sustainability sheds light on how authenticity can often get lost in marketing buzzwords.
          Scone Showdown: A light-hearted debate about scone quality serves as a fun reminder that even simple things—like properly baking a scone—can evoke strong opinions.
          Key Insights - 💡
          The Hesitancy to Share: Steven’s initial reluctance to open up reflects a common challenge with vulnerability, underscoring the importance of creating safe spaces for sharing stories.
          Retirement’s New Role: Retirement doesn’t mark the end of meaningful contributions. Steven’s mentorship role in his son’s business exemplifies the value of passing down knowledge and remaining engaged.
          Family Business Transitions: The conversation highlights the joys and challenges of maintaining a family-owned business while adapting to new market realities.
          Globalization and Craftsmanship: Steven’s reflections on the ornamental metal industry illustrate the struggles traditional artisans face against the influx of cheaper, mass-produced imports.
          Price vs. Quality in Food: The discussion about food sustainability demonstrates how consumers often prioritize affordability over quality, sometimes at the expense of tradition and authenticity.
          Authenticity in Sustainability: The exchange about organic practices emphasizes the importance of transparency and genuine sustainability in both business and food industries.
          Humor in Culinary Debates: The playful argument over scones adds a touch of levity, showing how food can spark passionate (and sometimes hilarious) conversations.
          A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Family
          This episode offers a window into the life of a man who has seen the evolution of business, family, and craftsmanship firsthand. Steven Zylstra’s reflections remind us that retirement is not the end of our story but a new chapter for mentorship and legacy. His thoughts on the challenges of modern business practices and the importance of quality—whether in metalwork, food, or relationships—resonate with anyone navigating change in their personal or professional lives.
          With a blend of wisdom, humor, and heart, this conversation invites listeners to reflect on their own journeys, family legacies, and the importance of staying true to one’s values in an ever-changing world.
          Tune in to The Authentic Only Show for more candid conversations like this one. And don’t forget—whether it’s a well-crafted metal piece or a perfect scone, quality matters. 🎧

          1 hr 41 min
        • Mental Health Advocacy and Psychedelic Healing: A Conversation with Lundi Ramos

          In this enlightening episode of The AO Show, host Joey C welcomes special guest Lundi Ramos, a mental health advocate and entrepreneur dedicated to making therapy more accessible to marginalized communities. Lundi shares their journey of creating mental health nonprofits like Khesed Wellness and Inner Guru Therapy, while also leading Quantum Mental Health, a ketamine-assisted therapy provider. As a leader in the psychedelic therapy space and Chairperson of the Colorado Natural Medicine Advisory Board, Lundi offers unique insights into the growing field of alternative mental health treatments.
          During the conversation, Joey and Lundi bond over their shared passion for authentic living, the restaurant industry, and psychedelic therapy. They discuss the importance of human connection, identity, and advocating for equitable mental health care. With humor and sincerity, Lundi talks about the challenges and rewards of building a life centered on social impact and how psychedelic therapies are changing the landscape of mental health treatment.
          Highlights - 🎙️
          Guest Introduction: Lundi Ramos shares their pronouns and excitement to be on the show.
          Mental Health Advocacy: Lundi’s work focuses on creating accessible mental health care for underserved communities.
          Psychedelic Therapy: A deep dive into Lundi’s advocacy for psychedelic treatments and their mental health benefits.
          Entrepreneurial Spirit: Lundi shares how they discovered their entrepreneurial calling through building mental health nonprofits.
          Authentic Living: Joey and Lundi bond over shared experiences in psychedelics and authentic, mindful living.
          Culinary Connection: Lundi is a frequent visitor to Joey’s pizza shop, underscoring their love of good food and connection through shared experiences.
          Key Insights - 💡
          Identity and Inclusivity: The conversation opens with a discussion on the importance of pronouns and respecting individual identities, setting a tone of inclusivity and understanding.
          Psychedelics and Mental Health: Lundi’s work in the psychedelic community highlights the growing interest in alternative therapies for mental health and the potential for healing through these methods.
          Entrepreneurship and Social Impact: Lundi’s journey illustrates how entrepreneurship can emerge from a passion to drive societal change, particularly in underserved areas like mental health care.
          Mindfulness and Authenticity: Both host and guest emphasize the value of living authentically and mindfully, showing that true connection and personal growth come from embracing life’s flow.
          Culinary and Personal Growth: Joey’s journey into the culinary field later in life serves as a reminder that passions can be pursued at any age, offering inspiration for continual growth and exploration.
          Join us for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation that bridges mental health advocacy, the power of psychedelic therapies, and the importance of staying true to oneself.
          #MentalHealthAdvocacy #PsychedelicTherapy #AccessibleTherapy #SocialImpact #KetamineTherapy #Mindfulness #AuthenticLiving #Entrepreneurship #MentalHealthEquity #CommunityHealing

          2 hr 25 min
        • From Bay Area Kitchens to Tahitian Vanilla: A Conversation with Chef Michael McClernon

          In this heartwarming episode, host Joey C sits down with Chef Michael McClernon to reminisce about their shared experiences volunteering to feed the homeless and to dive into McClernon’s rich culinary journey. From working in a large Bay Area restaurant to catering for world-famous musicians, thanks to his connection with music promoter Bill Graham, McClernon has had an extraordinary career in the culinary world. Along the way, he’s had adventures in Tahiti, where he fell in love with the island’s unique vanilla, leading to some humorous encounters at customs.
          Throughout the conversation, McClernon shares tales from his career, offering insights into the intersections of food, music, and culture. Now retired, McClernon continues to explore his passions beyond cooking, emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning and staying curious.
          Highlights - 🎙️
          Volunteer Experience: Joey and McClernon discuss their time cooking for the homeless, underscoring the importance of community service.
          Culinary Background: McClernon reflects on his early days in the bustling Bay Area restaurant scene.
          Music and Cooking: A chance connection with Bill Graham led McClernon to cater for famous bands, blending his love for food and music.
          Tahitian Vanilla: McClernon shares his fascination with Tahiti’s unique vanilla and a funny customs story.
          Diverse Interests: Despite being retired, McClernon continues to cultivate a range of hobbies beyond the kitchen.
          Culinary Skills: The episode highlights how McClernon’s experiences shaped his skills and strong work ethic.
          Key Insights - 💡
          Community Engagement: Volunteering to feed the homeless is a powerful way to give back, fostering connection and empathy.
          Culinary Evolution: McClernon’s journey illustrates how cooking can evolve from a profession into a lifelong passion.
          Food and Music: His career shows the beautiful intersection between food and other art forms like music, enhancing both experiences.
          Cultural Appreciation: McClernon’s love for Tahitian vanilla serves as a reminder of the deep cultural significance behind food ingredients.
          Humor in Everyday Life: A lighthearted customs story highlights the unexpected joys found in life’s everyday moments.
          Lifelong Curiosity: McClernon’s diverse post-retirement interests reflect the importance of continuing to explore new passions at any stage in life.
          Work Ethic: His early experiences in the kitchen instilled a strong work ethic, showing how hands-on mentorship and hard work shape a career.
          Join us for a delightful conversation filled with humor, passion, and insight into the world of food, music, and community!
          #ChefLife #CulinaryJourney #TahitianVanilla #CommunityService #MusicAndFood #LifelongLearning #CulinaryCulture #WorkEthic #FoodAndCulture #VolunteerWork

          1 hr 44 min
        • Building Community and Creativity: A Conversation with Ren Rice and the Team Behind Our 3rd Space

          In this lively episode of The AO Show, Joey C sits down with Ren Rice, owner of Romance Era Bookshop, and Josh and Rio, the creative minds behind Our 3rd Space. They dive into an engaging conversation about coffee consumption, self-image, nicknames, and the importance of fostering community in their entrepreneurial ventures.

          Ren shares her journey from a childhood dream to becoming the owner of a romance-focused bookstore that grew from fanfiction love to a thriving space in downtown Vancouver. Meanwhile, Josh and Rio introduce Our 3rd Space, a dynamic community venue that supports small businesses, artists, and creators by offering an affordable, welcoming environment for events, workshops, and collaboration.

          The group discusses the significance of safe spaces, the challenges of building community-driven businesses, and how collaboration helps bring creative ideas to life. With humor and insight, they explore the power of networks, shared resources, and collective goals to foster innovation and growth in their local community.

          Highlights - 🎧

          • Coffee Struggles: Joey C confesses his love/hate relationship with coffee, sparking a fun conversation.
          • Dream to Reality: Ren talks about how she turned her childhood dream into Romance Era Bookshop during the pandemic.
          • Nicknames and Identity: The group reflects on the funny ways nicknames shape identity.
          • Community-Driven Spaces: Josh and Rio explain how Our 3rd Space provides local creators with a supportive and affordable venue.
          • Creative Collaboration: They discuss the importance of collaboration in building successful small businesses.
          • Exciting Events: Flea markets, movie nights, and workshops – all part of creating a vibrant, creative community space.
          • Support Systems: They share the critical role community support has played in their journeys as entrepreneurs.

            • Key Insights - 💡

            • Building Dreams: Ren’s story reminds us that waiting to achieve our goals can often turn “later” into “never”—action is key.
            • Creating Inclusive Spaces: Our 3rd Space shows the importance of fostering safe environments where creatives and entrepreneurs can thrive.
            • Collaboration Fuels Growth: The episode highlights how working together as a community can lead to new opportunities and successes.
            • Finding Identity Through Nicknames: The lighthearted conversation around nicknames brings humor to how we navigate social identities.
            • Adapting and Growing: Both ventures are great examples of how small businesses evolve through experimentation and community engagement.

              • Tune in for an inspiring and fun episode that’s all about community, creativity, and following your passions!

              #CommunityBuilding #SmallBusiness #RomanceEraBookshop #Our3rdSpace #CreativeSpaces #SupportLocal #Entrepreneurship #Bookshop #Collaboration #Creativity

              2 hr 6 min
            • Kimberly Marcy and Flirting with Fiction

              In this episode of The Authentic Only Show, host Joey C welcomes special guest Kimberly Marcy, the owner of the charming new bookstore "Flirting with Fiction." Kimberly shares her passion for literature and the mission behind her nonprofit, "Fun with Fiction," which provides literature bundles to children facing tough circumstances.
              The conversation takes a fun and lighthearted turn with playful moments like booger and teeth checks, and exciting travel plans to New Mexico's hot air balloon festival. Along the way, Kimberly talks about her love for books, the fear of heights, and the logistics of hot air ballooning. She also discusses the meaningful work of her nonprofit and its ambitious goal to deliver books to 350 children this year.
              Highlights:
              😂 Booger Check: A funny and relatable take on hygiene checks among friends.
              🎈 Balloon Talk: A chat about fears of heights and ballooning adventures.
              📚 Bookstore Vibes: Kimberly introduces her bookstore "Flirting with Fiction."
              💖 Giving Back: The connection between her for-profit bookstore and nonprofit "Fun with Fiction."
              🎯 Community Goal: An inspiring aim to reach 350 kids with literature bundles.
              Join Joey and Kimberly for a warm, humorous, and inspiring conversation that touches on books, balloons, and making a positive difference in the community!
              #BookstoreLove #FlirtingWithFiction #CommunityImpact #FunWithFiction #HotAirBalloonFestival #BookLovers #SupportLocalBusiness #NonProfitWork #ChildrensLiterature #ReadingForKids #BookstoreGoals #EntrepreneurLife #PodcastLife #JoeyCShow #VancouverWA #LiteratureForKids #TravelAdventures #FearOfHeights #BooksAndBalloons #PositiveChange

              2 hr 9 min
            • Vault 31 | David Kaulitz and Sarah Alvers | The Authentic Only Show with Joey Chmiko

              In this episode of The Authentic Only Show, host Joey C. sits down with two dynamic entrepreneurs: David Kaulitz, owner/operator of the video game-themed bar Vault 31 in Vancouver, Washington, and Sarah Alvers, the mastermind behind the quirky and delicious Cookie McCakeFace food cart in Portland. Together, they explore the unique blend of gaming culture and baked goods, discussing how Vault 31 has become an unexpected social hub for gamers and cookie lovers alike.
              The conversation touches on the art of tempering chocolate, Sarah’s baking adventures, and how humor (including a fart soundboard!) creates a fun, relaxed atmosphere. They also dive into the challenges of running niche businesses, the importance of building a community, and the unexpected rise in popularity of their ventures.
              Highlights:
              🍪 Baking insights: Sarah’s challenges in tempering chocolate.
              🎮 Gaming culture: How Vault 31 became a go-to spot for gamers.
              😂 Comic relief: Fart soundboards and lighthearted fun.
              💼 Entrepreneurial wisdom: Building niche businesses with creativity and passion.
              Tune in for a fun, laughter-filled episode that mixes gaming, cookies, and authentic stories of entrepreneurship!

              2 hr 3 min
            • Alex Luna and SheriAnn Spurlock

              In this special 50th episode of The Authentic Only Show, host Joey Chmiko welcomes back two dynamic business owners from downtown Vancouver, Washington—Alex Luna and SheriAnn Spurlock. Alex, the owner of Kindred, a sustainable home goods store, and SheriAnn, who runs Melt Glass Art Supply, share the joys and challenges of navigating their businesses in a changing downtown landscape.
              Alex opens up about the recent news that her store’s building is set for demolition, forcing her to leave by the end of the year. She reflects on the journey of rebranding Kindred, discussing how shifting her business identity has impacted customer perceptions and the challenges of communicating her store's true mission.
              SheriAnn delves into the evolution of Melt, from being primarily a glass art supply store to offering a broader range of services, including classes and creative spaces. She emphasizes the importance of clear communication with customers to ensure they understand the full spectrum of what Melt offers.
              Together with Joey, they explore the shifts happening in downtown Vancouver, the importance of community engagement, and the role of creativity in their businesses. The episode is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of local entrepreneurs in shaping the future of their community.
              Join the conversation as these inspiring women share their stories, insights, and hopes for the future of Vancouver’s downtown area.
              #VancouverWA #LocalBusiness #DowntownVancouver #SmallBusinessOwners #SustainableLiving #CreativeEntrepreneurs #Rebranding #BusinessResilience #CommunityFocus #ArtAndCreativity #PodcastEpisode #WomenInBusiness #BusinessChallenges #EntrepreneurLife #LocalArtists #VancouverWashington #Sustainability #SupportLocal #CreativeCommunity #PodcastMilestone

              2 hr 40 min

            About The Authentic Only Show

            From the publisher's feed

            Welcome to "The Authentic Only Show" podcast, hosted by Joey Chmiko. Join Joey as he sits down with artists, authors, entrepreneurs, and other local personalities for deep, honest conversations.