This week, we're joined by actor, improv teacher, and creative soul Connor Bond for a deep, hilarious, and honest conversation about what it really means to navigate life, creativity, and identity. We talk about Connor’s journey through different seasons of growth, from teaching improv to kids to finding purpose beyond traditional career paths. He shares the emotional balancing act of doing work that matters—learning to embrace both the anxiety and the excitement that come with it.

We explore how skills from improv and acting can cross over into everyday life, including the importance of connection, vulnerability, and staying rooted in the present. Connor shares his personal philosophies on the relationship between narrative, game theory, and character building, and how letting go of ego has reshaped his approach to both his craft and his personal growth.

Along the way, we dive into everything from existential philosophy to childhood wonder, discussing authors like Wittgenstein and Kierkegaard, the surprising lessons you learn from babies, and the idea that "everything is a coincidence—and that's okay." Connor also reflects on learning to accept life’s ups and downs without labeling every experience as good or bad, and why finding joy in imperfection might be the real secret to it all.

The episode wraps with a fun, improv-inspired challenge, a hilarious reflection on Connor’s early exposure to Eraserhead, and a heartfelt discussion about the struggle—and beauty—of living authentically in a chaotic world.

Find Connor online here: https://www.connorbondactor.com/

https://www.instagram.com/bond_connorbond/

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NEW EPISODES WEEKLY!

"Who Thought We'd Be Here?" is hosted by Steven Aigner and John Pugh.

https://linktr.ee/whothoughtwedbeherepod

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This episode is a vulnerable look into the tug-of-war between ambition and self-acceptance. Steve and JP explore the quiet, often overwhelming internal dialogue that comes with trying to grow—physically, mentally, emotionally—while constantly questioning if you're doing enough. From the guilt of taking a day off, to spiraling thoughts about falling behind, to the fear of actually becoming the best version of yourself, this conversation unpacks the complex relationship we have with discipline, identity, and self-worth.

They dig into the concept of imposter syndrome, not just as a label, but as a real emotional experience that colors everything from creative work to personal wellness. There's also an honest discussion about breaking free from the need to control outcomes, and instead learning to live in the gray area—where progress isn’t always visible, but presence is everything.

For anyone who’s ever wrestled with the voice that says you’re not doing enough, or questioned your place in the life you’re building—this one’s for you. It’s a raw reminder that seeking the answers is part of the work.

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NEW EPISODES WEEKLY!

"Who Thought We'd Be Here?" is hosted by Steven Aigner and John Pugh.

https://linktr.ee/whothoughtwedbeherepod

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In this episode, we’re joined by Manny Jimenez — a real estate agent, martial artist, and man of deep faith — for an honest conversation about identity, growth, and staying grounded in a world full of noise. Manny opens up about his personal journey, from navigating insecurities in his youth to becoming a disciplined and purpose-driven man rooted in spiritual values.

He shares how his faith has shaped his approach to life and business, the lessons he’s learned through martial arts, and why vulnerability and emotional honesty are essential to true masculinity. We dive into the challenges of staying authentic on social media, letting go of ego, and learning to embrace the hard stuff — because failure is just feedback.

This episode is a reminder that strength doesn’t mean perfection, and that staying rooted in your values — especially faith and family — is the real foundation for becoming who you’re meant to be.

Check out Manny on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/mannysellsupstate

1:00 the willingness to be kind despite people thinking it may not be genuine

3:00 Who is Manny Jimenez? And how did he get here?

4:30 the reality and expectations of social media

5:30 God has already made you “enough” and being your best self

6:30 Don’t let material things change what you are rooted in

7:30 The origin of Manny’s Christian faith

10:00 Your faith is more than your belief, it’s about action

12:00 dealing with insecurity and growing into yourself with family dynamics

14:30 the people who shaped Manny to be who he is authentically today

16:30 the bold moment where Manny faced his insecurity as a teenager

19:00 Failure is feedback

20:00 The discipline and vulnerability of martial arts 

29:00 Life is simple, but it’s not easy

32:30 life is just the art of becoming who you are

35:00 the importance of men being vulnerable and having conversations about your feelings

39:30 dealing with the stereotype of what it means to be a man and defining that for yourself

45:00 you need people in your life that don’t let you quit

47:00 being a rooted man in your masculine energy

50:00 asking yourself the question “Is this the man I want to be?”

57:00 You have to know the price of the things you want in life

1:00:00 being your authentic self on your career journey

1:07:00 the origin of the name “Who Thought We’d Be Here?”

1:17:00 Gratitude brings me back to baseline, even in a huge victory

1:25:00 Steve reflects on becoming a father soon

1:30:00 Manny reflects on remembering that our parents are humans who make mistakes too

1:38:00 Manny’s council

1:45:00 Will you say yes to the negative thoughts then they pop into your head?

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NEW EPISODES WEEKLY!

"Who Thought We'd Be Here?" is hosted by Steven Aigner and John Pugh.

https://linktr.ee/whothoughtwedbeherepod

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How many days have you lived? We kick off this episode with a little math problem to put time into perspective. Then, we reflect on the journey of this podcast, the variety of guests we have lined up, and the growing pains of figuring out what it means to turn a passion into a business.

The conversation turns deep as we discuss the struggle of trying to figure things out before the answers are even meant to be clear. We talk about the dangerous habit of comparing your journey to someone else’s, letting go of victimhood, and analyzing the role our egos play in how we react to life’s challenges. It’s all about taking ownership of your emotions—whether good or bad—and learning to not take everything so personally.

We also touch on the idea that the past is a trap, and the future is uncertain, so how do we navigate life without getting stuck in either? The discussion leads us into Sahil Bloom’s concept of the five types of wealth—time, social, mental, physical & financial—and how redefining wealth can completely change the way we approach life. Most of us aren’t chasing money; we’re chasing freedom.

From there, we dive into the balance between business and creativity—how do we maintain passion while also keeping our work sustainable? And we ask ourselves the big questions: What should we talk about on the podcast? What are the boundaries? What are the conversations that need to happen, even if they’re uncomfortable?

One of those uncomfortable topics is addiction—specifically, the struggle with pornography, loneliness, and how shame plays a massive role in personal battles. We break down how the person who judges you the most is often yourself, and how self-forgiveness is crucial in moving forward.

The episode closes with a discussion on energy—redirecting it into things that truly matter, finding fulfillment from within rather than external validation, and learning how to break free from distractions and addictions that keep us from our highest potential.

It’s a deep, thought-provoking episode that tackles ego, emotions, personal growth, and what it really means to build a fulfilling life.

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NEW EPISODES WEEKLY!

"Who Thought We'd Be Here?" is hosted by Steven Aigner and John Pugh.

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In this episode, we sit down with Taylor Lyons, owner of Kelta Wellness Center, a space dedicated to cutting-edge wellness technology, including sensory deprivation tanks, meditation beds, sauna therapy, and cold plunges. Taylor shares her journey from being a school teacher to a certified yoga instructor and entrepreneur, detailing what led her to create a space where people can disconnect from overstimulation and focus on introspective self-care.

We dive deep into the science and experience of sensory deprivation floating, discussing how it resets the mind and body, improves mental clarity, and fosters deep relaxation. Taylor explains how her own experience with anxiety and stress led her to explore wellness practices, from retreats and life coaching to therapy and intimacy counseling.

Beyond wellness, we explore the raw realities of motherhood, including the stress of pregnancy, postpartum struggles, "mom brain," and the identity shifts that come with raising a child. Taylor introduces us to the "Flamingo Theory of Motherhood", a powerful metaphor for regaining your sense of self while balancing the chaos of parenting.

Check out Taylor & Kelta on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itstaylorbree/

https://www.instagram.com/kelta.life/

Visit Kelta's website to book a self care service: www.kelta.life

3:00 Kelta is a space with wellness technology to provide patrons with introspective self care

6:20 the quiet and zen atmosphere at kelta for sauna, cold plunge, meditation bed, and sensory deprivation tanks

7:00 in depth explanation on the comfort experience of the meditation bed 

13:00 sensory deprivation floating benefits, Joe Rogan, and Stranger Things

14:30 Taylor’s personal connection and experience with sensory deprivation tanks and bringing it to Beacon

19:00 using sensory deprivation to reset in today’s world of constant overstimulation

23:00 Taylor’s trip to Costa Rica and her journey from school teacher to certified yoga instructor 

28:00 how Taylor’s anxiety as a child led to her personal development journey 

34:00 prioritizing spending money on valuable experiences like courses, life coaching and travel

39:00 Spending money on your wellness is priceless, if your body is broken, you need to take care of it

41:00 the journey to motherhood, building a family and business simultaneously 

45:00 Taylor’s “pedal to the medal” pregnancy and the stress and anxiety she went through

52:00 post partum struggles of rediscovering your identity after having a child

55:00 the challenge of “mom brain” and learning to ask for help 

59:00 even something as simple as walking your dog becomes a difficult process when you have a baby

1:01:00 “the flamingo theory of motherhood” and how Taylor is getting her pink back

1:07:00 the value of flexibility in your life as parenthood brings chaos and change

1:09:30 being able to laugh at yourself and not take yourself so seriously

1:12:30 regaining your childhood innocence and desire for fun as you mature

1:15:00 “I don’t wanna be the mom that says no, I’m gonna do the thing

Join our exclusive community on GROUPED where you can find uncut episodes, messaging with your hosts, and early access to promotions

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NEW EPISODES WEEKLY!

"Who Thought We'd Be Here?" is hosted by Steven Aigner and John Pugh.

https://linktr.ee/whothoughtwedbeherepod

Please Like, Follow, Share, and Enjoy!!!

In this episode, we reflect on the challenge of maintaining consistency and accountability in both the podcast and everyday life. We share our experience in a sensory deprivation tank in preparation for an upcoming episode, while we discuss the importance of movement, yoga, and staying active—especially as Steve sets his goal to be in top shape before the baby arrives.

We dive into the mental struggles of content creation, the discipline of journaling, and insights from The Daily Stoic and The Celestine Prophecy. The conversation turns to therapy, the power of men opening up about their emotions, and how understanding control dramas can reshape relationships.

From the necessity of breathwork and mindfulness to battling rumination and self-doubt, we explore the reality that growth never truly ends—"new levels, new devils." We also touch on the idea that moving to a new place won’t fix your problems if you bring the same mindset with you. And in a lighter moment, Eleanor gets cast as the perfect tea kettle for Beauty and the Beast.

Finally, we discuss addiction beyond substances, the importance of steadiness in the face of anger, and remind you (and ourselves) to get your shit together—@Whoop, we’re looking at you.

0:00 trying to regain consistency and accountability in the podcast

1:00 sensory deprivation tank experience for upcoming Kelta podcast

5:00 what it feels like to be 056 episodes in

8:00 the importance of movement, and the accountability of going to yoga

10:30 Steve wants to be jacked by the time the baby comes

12:00 Josh Brolin on the Daily Stoic and finding 5 minutes in the morning for the basics like journaling

14:00 the struggle of wanting to make content and the work that goes into it

15:30 Reading “The Celestine Prophecy”, control dramas, and “The Body Keeps the Score”

16:30 trying to figure out therapy and the power of men talking about therapy and their feelings

26:00 being flexible in your habits and flowing through your routine

32:00 Using tools like breath work instead of wallowing

34:00 “sometimes the hardest thing to do is just doing what you’re supposed to do”

37:00 avoiding rumination by pausing and being present

39:40 “new levels, new devils”

42:30 the battles never end, they just get a little easier

45:00 you could move to another city, but you’re still bring you with you

50:00 Eleanor would make a good tea kettle in the beauty and the beast

51:30 the importance of steadiness and being calm in the face of anger

53:00 addiction isn’t just drugs and alcohol

55:00 Get your shit together @whoop

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NEW EPISODES WEEKLY!

"Who Thought We'd Be Here?" is hosted by Steven Aigner and John Pugh.

https://linktr.ee/whothoughtwedbeherepod

Please Like, Follow, Share, and Enjoy!!!

In this episode, we open up about the evolving role of family in our lives and the unexpected ways it shapes us. From navigating the overwhelming nature of big life changes to learning how to be present with the people who matter most, we reflect on the moments that define us. We talk about the resistance that comes with pushing ourselves toward new goals, the importance of giving ourselves grace in times of self-doubt, and why deep, honest conversations—especially with our parents—can be so transformative. JP shares his personal struggle with overthinking, and we discuss the power of stepping away from distractions to find clarity. We also explore the idea of building a true community, where meaningful connections replace surface-level interactions. This episode is about embracing life’s challenges, appreciating the people around us, and staying true to the journey, even when it feels overwhelming.

Join our exclusive community on GROUPED where you can find uncut episodes, messaging with your hosts, and early access to promotions

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NEW EPISODES WEEKLY!

"Who Thought We'd Be Here?" is hosted by Steven Aigner and John Pugh.

https://linktr.ee/whothoughtwedbeherepod

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In this episode, we sit down with musician Brandon Purdy to dive into the healing power of music, creativity, and spirituality. Brandon shares how loss and personal struggles reshaped his artistic journey, transitioning from making “hollow” music to creating songs with real meaning. We explore the importance of reconnecting with childhood passions, the influence of legends like Prince and Michael Jackson, and the creative battles with comparison and perfectionism.

Brandon opens up about meditation, journaling, and the impact of Rick Rubin’s "The Creative Act" in keeping his creativity centered. We discuss how psychedelics, breathwork, and spirituality have helped us process grief and trauma, as well as the role of forgiveness and gratitude in moving forward. This conversation is a raw, unfiltered look at the journey of self-expression, healing, and the realization that as long as you’re still in the game, you’re winning.

Listen to Brandon's newest single "Keep Going" here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oDAdIQEHUHs
Instagram & TikTok:
https://www.instagram.com/itsbrandonpurdy/
https://www.tiktok.com/@itsbrandonpurdy

0:00 This weeks guest, musician Brandon Purdy

3:00 dealing with loss through the expression of music

5:00 Transitioning from making “hollow” music to meaningful expression through a creative rebrand

6:30 what sparked the newfound authenticity and being able to share your music with everybody of all ages

9:00 reconnecting with the things you loved as a child, for Brandon it was dancing

12:30 You don’t know how many people you’re helping without even knowing it

15:00 Being inspired by the greats like Prince and Michael Jackson and learning new skills and instruments 

17:00 Wrestling with creativity when comparison and perfectionism creeps in

22:00 Journaling and reading “the creative act” by Rick Rubin to keep your creativity centered

26:00 the power of putting pen to paper and getting your thoughts out in the open

30:00 the spiritual process of finding your flow

35:00 Making a connection with spirituality

39:00 the importance of meditation and noticing your own thoughts

41:30 the shit I was doing, I shouldn’t be alive, but somehow, I’m here

43:20 nobody knows shit, we’re all just trying to figure all of this out

45:00 Dealing with loss as the world keeps going

48:00 the power of psychedelics and dealing with your past with intention 

55:00 Dealing with guilt around loss and giving yourself forgiveness for the past that can’t be changed

1:01:45 nothing bad is going to come from being honest

1:04:00 unleashing the power of your mind and body in breath work and the wim hof method

1:08:00 Getting out of your own head and into your body so you can release trauma

1:12:00 forming gratitude around the small things 

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NEW EPISODES WEEKLY!

"Who Thought We'd Be Here?" is hosted by Steven Aigner and John Pugh.

https://linktr.ee/whothoughtwedbeherepod

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In this episode, we welcome Licensed Master Social Worker Nina Lugo, a passionate social worker making a difference in the lives of students, parents, and educators. Nina opens up about the realities of social work, shedding light on the often-overlooked emotional toll that comes with helping others navigate life's challenges.

We explore how social work extends beyond just students—supporting parents and coworkers is just as important. Nina shares how she approaches tough conversations, from guiding parents through difficult truths about their children to breaking the stigma around mental illness and helping kids develop healthy coping mechanisms.

We also dive into the state of the education system, the lack of essential life skills being taught in schools, and the pressing need for more mental health resources and role models for young men. Nina emphasizes how anxiety and fear are normal emotions that shouldn’t be demonized and how reframing conversations around mental health can help dismantle outdated stereotypes—especially regarding men and emotional expression.

Throughout this conversation, Nina offers incredible insight into self-care as a social worker, the struggles of keeping work stress from creeping into personal life, and the importance of being in this field for the outcome, not the income.

This is a raw, honest discussion about mental health, resilience, and the people working behind the scenes to create lasting change.

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NEW EPISODES WEEKLY!

"Who Thought We'd Be Here?" is hosted by Steven Aigner and John Pugh.

https://linktr.ee/whothoughtwedbeherepod

Please Like, Follow, Share, and Enjoy!!!

This episode is a big one. An important one. Our most personal one yet.

We told you we were gonna cry today—and for good reason. Steve is having a baby, and we dive deep into the whirlwind of emotions that come with it. Excitement, nerves, and the realization that life is about to change forever. We talk about giving up vices when major life shifts happen, the risks and rewards of big decisions, and the responsibility of breaking family patterns when bringing a new life into the world.

Plus, a little debate on what the baby is gonna call Uncle JP, and why Knocked Up just became required viewing.

This one’s real, raw, and straight from the heart. Tune in. 💙

0:30 I told you we were gonna cry today

2:00 Steve is having a baby

5:40 Excitement and nerves go hand in hand in these moments

12:00 Giving up your vices when life changing events come along

17:00 Risks always have rewards in these situations

18:50 Live Podcast from the Delivery room?

22:00 How are you excited to prepare for this baby on the way?

25:30 Breaking the patterns of yourself and your family when bringing a new life into the world

30:00 Wondering what the baby is gonna call Uncle JP

40:00 Now we gotta watch “Knocked Up” before the baby comes

Join our exclusive community on GROUPED where you can find uncut episodes, messaging with your hosts, and early access to promotions

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NEW EPISODES WEEKLY!

"Who Thought We'd Be Here?" is hosted by Steven Aigner and John Pugh.

https://linktr.ee/whothoughtwedbeherepod

Please Like, Follow, Share, and Enjoy!!!