The Mango Times

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Burned Out and Broken - How He Started Over After Methamphetamines.

In this powerful episode, Fletch sits down with his longtime friend John Ady, who just celebrated 25 years of sobriety from methamphetamines. John shares his honest and redemptive journey from addiction to recovery and what it took to Just Start.
They talk about hitting rock bottom, the people who showed up, the faith that kept him going, and the quiet decisions that changed everything. This episode is a reminder that transformation doesn’t require a master plan—just the courage to take the first step.
Whether you’re battling addiction, doubt, or inertia, this episode is a reminder that healing often starts with one brave step.
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Guest Information
John Ady
John Ady is a busy bassist in Modesto, CA. After attending CSU Stanislaus he has played Electric and Upright Bass in a wide range of styles including Afro-Cuban, Jazz, Theater pits, pop, Assyrian Pop and Gypsy Jazz. He currently plays with Capybara Coalition.

Resources and Links
The Fletchifesto
Capybara Coalition
Celebrate Recovery

Music used in this episode:
- Dirty Little Bossanova and Cantelope Island Inner Sanctum by Capybara Coalition. Used with permission.
Artist: https://soundcloud.com/capybara-coalition
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Welcome to Episode 37 of theMangoTimes Podcast: Show Up - It’s the most underated Superpower!

In this episode, Fletch interviews longtime friend and ultimate “shower-upper” Lisa Kjeldgaard. Based on the Fletchifesto idea that 80% of life is just showing up, this conversation dives into the power of presence and why it matters. Lisa reflects on her background, her education, and how those experiences shaped her values. 

Together, they explore what it means to show up for others, the personal cost and reward, and why it’s often the first step toward any meaningful life. Plus: a rapid-fire round of fun questions.

Quietly making noise,
Fletch

Guest Information
Lisa Kjeldgaard
Lisa is the often exhausted Director of @Love_Oakdale and the @Oakdale_Morning_Market and co-owner of @TheShoppe_Oakdale. She's a mama to many, Grammy Smidge to six cuties and grateful for 34+ years with @pops_kj. Lisa is usually plotting a way to escape to the lake and to the peace she finds while worshipping from her kayak.

RESOURCES and LINKS:
The Fletchifesto

Music used in this episode:
- Infados and Carefree by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100449
Artist: http://incompetech.com/

- “Soldiers Under Command” - brief sound clip from Stryper  available for purchase here.

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Send Fletch a Voicemail or Text!

A short porch-side bonus with wisdom, wit, and wind chimes.

In this short bonus episode of theMangoTimes Podcast, Fletch hands over the mic to his 95-year-old dad for a quick round of listener-submitted questions from longtime friend Tom Slater.

Pop shares his favorite Bible verse, decade, and U.S. president — plus a little wisdom for the grandkids and a few reflections on the best (and worst) jobs he’s had. It’s a mini-dose of porch-side wisdom and a reminder that sometimes the best stories come from simple questions.

Guest Information
Joe Fletcher (Pop)
Born in Somerville, NJ in 1930, Pop is a regular guest of theMangoTimes Podcast. He spends his days tending to his garden and relaxing on the back porch (summer) and in his smoke shop (winters). He is a voracious reader (1-2 books each week on his favorite Kindle) and focuses on biographies and histories. Pop loves to take your questions, so feel free to contact him here: Let’s Connect.

RESOURCES and LINKS:
NONE

Music used in this episode:
- Such a Swinging Good Time 

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Welcome to Episode 36 of theMangoTimes Podcast: You Don’t Know Everything (And That's The Good News!)

Remember that time you were absolutely certain you were right—and then turned out to be completely wrong? Yeah, me too.

In this episode of theMangoTimes Podcast, we’re talking about the art of not knowing everything. It’s based on one of the most honest blog posts I’ve written: You Don’t Know Everything, where I unpacked the hard truth that being confident isn’t the same as being correct.

Joining me is my friend Matt Andrews—an old church buddy, a poet, a private investigator and all-around thoughtful human. Matt reached out and asked to be part of this episode, and I’m glad he did. He brings his experience as a poet, Enneagram 5, and doubter-in-progress to the mic.

Together they talk about the freedom that comes from not having all the answers—especially in faith, work, and family. From the mysticism of centering prayer to the humility bell on Matt’s old boss’s desk, this episode explores how embracing “not knowing” can lead to deeper understanding.

Oh, and they also share stories about being confidently wrong—because nothing builds character like blowing it in public.

Tune in for a funny, thoughtful, and freeing conversation that invites you to let go of certainty and lean into curiosity instead.

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Guest Information
Matt Andrews: Matthew J. Andrews is primarily a poet, although he dabbles in prose. In his work, Matthew examines the intersection of the spiritual and the secular, the wrestling match between belief and doubt, and the challenges of practicing an ancient faith in a modern world. His writing also explores the many faces of the natural world and the sacredness of small moments, among other things. He is a native Californian now living in Central Iowa. 
When he is not writing, Matthew is a professional private investigator, a voracious reader, an amateur chef, a wannabe outdoorsman, a sometimes runner, a doting husband, and a competent father of two. 

Resources and Links
Matt Andrews
The Fletchifesto

Music used in this episode:
- Back To Portland - YouTube Sound studios.
- Infados by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100449
Artist: http://incompetech.com/
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Send Fletch a Voicemail or Text!

On June 6, 1944, Allied forces landed on the beaches of Northern France in what would become the largest land/sea invasion in history and a major turning point in World War II. D-Day along with Pearl Harbor days, were honored and remembered evey year in my home growning up. Today, 81 years later, I sat down with my 94-year-old father—to talk about what life was like back then and what he remembers from that extraordinary time.

In this special World War 2  episode of theMangoTimes Podcast, we talk about growing up during the war, the mood of the country, and the sacrifices made on both the frontlines and the home front. From air raid drills and ration books to hearing the news of D-Day over the radio, Pop shares stories that give us a glimpse into what it meant to live through history as it unfolded.

We also reflect on how that generation saw duty, service, and sacrifice—not as slogans, but as everyday values. And, true to form, my Pop brings his signature wit and a few great one-liners (delivered through a puff of pipe smoke, of course).

This one is for anyone who had a father, grandfather, or great-grandparent who lived through those years—and for those of us still trying to understand what shaped them.

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Guest Information
Joe Fletcher (Pop)
Born in Somerville, NJ in 1930, Pop is a regular guest of theMangoTimes Podcast. He spends his days tending to his garden and relaxing on the back porch (summer) and in his smoke shop (winters). He is a voracious reader (1-2 books each week on his favorite Kindle) and focuses on biographies and histories. Pop loves to take your questions, so feel free to contact him here: Let’s Connect.

Resources and Links
NONE

Music used in this episode:
Newsreel - Max Surla/YouTube Audio Library
1940's Slow Dance - Doug Maxwell/Media Right Productions/YouTube Audio Library

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Send Fletch a Voicemail or Text!

On this episode of theMangoTimes Podcast, Fletch is joined in the studio by special guest Corey Strauss—Central Valley legend and founder of The Magic Box Players.

Corey shares his journey from imaginative kid to one of the area’s most creative forces in set design, costuming, and theater arts. Together, he and Fletch dive into his latest project: a mobile theater that brings storytelling, puppetry, and joy to local schools, igniting young imaginations one performance at a time.

But that’s just the beginning. This episode is a celebration of silliness—why nonsense matters, how play connects us, and why your inner child deserves more stage time.

Whether you're an improv junkie, a recovering serious adult, or someone who just needs to remember how to laugh, this episode is your permission slip to lighten up.

🎭 Theater, puppets, and costumes
 🎙 Laughter, memories, and middle-aged mayhem
 🧠 Why being silly might just save your sanity

Tune in—and remember:
 A little nonsense is not just okay. It’s necessary.

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Guest Information
Corey Strauss  - Corey Strauss is a Central Valley designer for theatrical productions. He is the founder of MagicBox Players and the current scenic designer/tech director for Opera Modesto. Corey has been designing and directing throughout California for over 20 years. He has creatively produced nearly 200 productions with a focus on elevating community theater artists in the Central Valley.

Resources and Links
MagicBoxPlayers

Music used in this episode:
- Lost and Found and Carefree by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100449
Artist: http://incompetech.com/
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Send Fletch a Voicemail or Text!

Why Most of What We Fear Never Actually Happens

In this solo episode of theMangoTimes, I explore a topic that can cripple us and keep us from moving forward. This isn’t a discussion about the irrational  fears of the impossible. On this episode we dive into a discussion about the fear of all things possible.

 The fear of failure. The fear of what your critics may say. The fear of being scene as an impostor or a fake. This episode is a call to stop living under the shadow of imagined disasters and start living in the clarity of what’s real.

With help from a few classic movie clips (We Bought a Zoo and The Pursuit of Happyness), I will unpack  how fear distorts our stories—and how to take courageous action even when the possible feels paralyzing.

If you're feeling stuck, scared, or unsure about your next step, this episode is for you.

Don’t let fear write your script.

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Guest Information
No Guest - All Fletch

Resources and Links
Smartless Podcast
Pretty Sure I Can Fly Podcast
The Bible for Normal People
The Devil and the Deep Blue Sea
theMangoTimes Episode 16 - It’s Okay To Fail

Shows Recommended on this Episode:
Hacks and The Righteous Gemstones both on HBO MAX
Ludwig on Britbox

Music used in this episode:
NONE
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This is the third in a series of conversations with my Pop. 

In this episode of In the Smoke Shop with Pop, we take the conversation out of the smokeshop and onto the back porch.
I sat down with my dad—94 years old, sharp as ever, and full of perspective—to talk about Words to Live By. 

It’s a theme that’s more than just old sayings or clichés; it’s about what’s really stuck with him over the years. From the advice he took (and didn’t take) to the moments that shaped him, this episode is full of that real-life wisdom you can only get from someone who’s been around the block a few times.

Pop also takes questions from a few listeners to theMangoTimes who asked him about his favorite decade of life and if he ever questioned his decision to be a parent and bring kids into our crazy world.

I finish up this episode with a few quick-fire questions to see how quick he is on his feet (or chair)—his answers might surprise you.

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Guest Information
Joe Fletcher (Pop)
Born in Somerville, NJ in 1930, Pop is a regular guest of theMangoTimes Podcast. He spends his days tending to his garden and relaxing on the back porch (summer) and in his smoke shop (winters). He is a voracious reader (1-2 books each week on his favorite Kindle) and focuses on biographies and histories. Pop loves to take your questions, so feel free to contact him here: Let’s Connect.

Resources and Links
NONE

Music used in this episode:
NONE

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Send Fletch a Voicemail or Text!

On this episode of theMangoTimes podcast, I not only continue down the discussion of  The Fletchifesto, but I continue down a thread that’s been running through recent conversations on this podcast. First, with my dad (In the Smoke Shop with Pop Part 1 and Part 2) and second with my wife Kendra (Stop Dreaming and Start Doing). 

This time around, I chose to sit down with my 18-year-old son Christian—a musician, a YouTuber, and a future University of the Pacific student—to talk about what it means to him to make your own kind of music in life.

But don’t let the title fool you—although we talk a lot about music in this episode, it isn’t just about music. It’s about courage, creativity, and choosing a bold path, no matter your age. Whether you’re stepping into adulthood or staring down a midlife shift, this episode is a reminder that it’s never too late—or too early—to live in tune with who you really are. Join me in the studio as we discuss what it means to Make Your Own Kind Of Music.

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Guest Information
Christian Fletcher  - is a songwriter, producer, and music production student at the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California. He is also the son of theMangoTimes podcasting host. Christian has been surrounded by creativity his entire life, but he’s carving his own path in sound. Whether he’s crafting original beats, producing tracks for friends, or experimenting with new genres, Christian embodies the spirit of “make your own kind of music” by creating what’s true, not just what’s trending.
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Resources and Links
Christian Fletcher Creative Space

Music used in this episode:
Make Your Own Kind of Music- by Mama Cass Elliot (BUY IT HERE)
Making Music For Money- by Jimmy Buffett  (BUY IT HERE)
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Send Fletch a Voicemail or Text!

We're back In the Smokeshop with Pop!

In Part 2, Pop picks up where we left off—but this time, he also takes time to answer a few questions from you, the listeners. Ever wondered how he feels about his career, the big choices he’s made in life, or what he’d pick for his last meal? He lays it all out with that signature blend of wisdom and wit that only a 95-year-old Italian father can deliver.

In this episode we get into:

The legacy of his career

A discussion about accomplishments and regrets.

A quick fire round of questions

A personal response to your questions. 

Plus, Fletch takes a brief cultural moment to share what he’s been watching, reading, and listening to these days—a few recommendations from the desk of theMangoTimes editor.

It’s a packed show full of story, reflection, and connection. Pour a cup of coffee, light up a pipe, and join us for another fun visit to Pop’s Smokeshop.

Do you have questions for Pop?

My dad will be back for more episodes, and you can be a part of it. Head over to theMangoTimes.com and hit that Let’s Connect button. Got a burning question for Pop? Want to hear his take on life, love, or why people used to walk uphill both ways in the snow? Leave a written comment or send in an audio message that you record on your smart phone, and I’ll make sure he answers it in a future episode.

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Guest Information
Joe Fletcher (Pop)
Born in Somerville, NJ in 1930, Pop is a regular guest of theMangoTimes Podcast. He spends his days tending to his garden and relaxing on the back porch (summer) and in his smoke shop (winters). He is a voracious reader (1-2 books each week on his favorite Kindle) and focuses on biographies and histories. Pop loves to take your questions, so feel free to contact him here: Let’s Connect.

Resources and Links
How To Stop Time - by Matt Haig
To America - by Stephen Ambrose

Music used in this episode:
On The Road Again - by Willie Nelson (BUY IT HERE)

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AFTER YOU LISTEN, PLEASE SUPPORT THE SHOW BY...
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