Who Thought We'd Be Here?

In Episode 064, we sit down with Nick Spencer, martial artist, business owner, and founder of Snake Hill Jiu-Jitsu, for an honest, wide-ranging conversation about healing, identity, and building something real. From military police service to managing PTSD, Nick shares how Jiu-Jitsu became not just a discipline, but a path to personal evolution.

We explore how plant medicine and psychedelics, like ayahuasca, reshaped his understanding of ego and trauma, and how community, communication, and showing up authentically have become the backbone of his business and relationships. This episode dives into the realities of co-owning a studio with his brother, confronting trauma from working in a morgue during the height of COVID, and finding strength through vulnerability.

Whether you're into martial arts, mental health, or just trying to live more intentionally, this episode will leave you reflecting on what it means to be truly yourself.

Check out Nick and Snake Hill Jiu-jitsu here -

https://snakehilljiujitsu.com/

https://www.instagram.com/snakehill_jiujitsu/

0:30 our guest this week, Nick Spencer, Martial Arts Instructor & Founder of Snake Hill Jiu-Jitsu

4:00 Building a safe community and culture within a Jiu-Jitsu Studio

8:30 finding your mental edge in a healthy physical outlet

12:00 Biggest lessons from teaching Jiu-Jitsu and owning your own business

18:00 Co-owning a studio and business with your older brother

20:00 Nick’s military police officer experience with PTSD and neck injuries 

23:00 confronting trauma from the covid summer working for the morgue in NYC

27:00 plant medicine, ayahuasca and PTSD

32:00 the effects of powerful psychedelics on your ego

40:00 how friendships and we view our friends evolve over time

46:45 developing your own identity through yourself instead of perception

49:00 just be who you are and being yourself in your relationship via communication

54:00 books that have helped us on our journey

1:02:00 Nick’s favorite podcasts

1:06:00 the importance of community and family when building a business

1:11:00 finding religion and attending Catholic/Christian school

1:25:00 showing up authentically in your relationships and your business

1:30:00 Nick asks us what our next big move is

1:38:00 Nick’s council of decision makers

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

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In this powerful and unfiltered episode, the hosts sit down with Bryce Eckwall, founder of Q29 Productions, for a deep conversation about the intersection of creativity, entrepreneurship, healing, and self-worth.

The episode opens with a behind-the-scenes look at how real conversations are sparked—before the mics even turn on. The trio discusses the balance between structure and spontaneity in podcasting and how authenticity builds trust and connection. Bryce shares how podcasting became a gateway to deeper relationships and business opportunities, even calling it "the new business card" for entrepreneurs.

What follows is a raw and inspiring story of transformation. Bryce recounts how a chance encounter with Daymond John of Shark Tank led to one of the most pivotal moments in his creative career. But the story goes far beyond that—it’s about the grind, the waiting, the follow-ups, and the quiet self-belief it takes to break through.

The conversation deepens into themes of sobriety, addiction, and how the obsessive nature that once fueled destructive habits can be redirected into creative success. All three participants open up about their journeys with substance use, routine, anxiety, and overthinking—highlighting the mental toll that high-performance creative work can take.

They explore the line between ego and intention in content creation. Is sharing your story self-promotion or service? How do creators navigate the blurred boundary between personal healing and public storytelling? Bryce speaks candidly about building his personal brand, facing criticism, and realizing that showing up consistently—and imperfectly—is often more valuable than going viral.

As the conversation unfolds, topics range from:

• Mindset, routines, and mental health
• The power of storytelling in branding
• Authenticity vs. clickbait in social media
• Fear of failure in both business and personal relationships
• How content creation becomes therapy

The episode culminates in a powerful exchange on self-worth, vulnerability, and the pressure to be seen. The hosts also share personal reflections—on fatherhood, imposter syndrome, growth, and how podcasting has become a meaningful act of service in their own lives.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, a creator, or someone navigating your own transformation, this episode is a reminder that behind every success is a story of struggle—and that your story is worth telling.

Big thanks to Bryce ( https://www.instagram.com/brycewallll/ ) for both hosting us and joining us on this episode.  Be sure to check out Bryce and the team at Q29 productions at their website: 

https://www.q29productions.com/ 

and their instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/q29video

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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This week we sit down with Steve Strong of the Dungeons in the Attic podcast for a deeply honest conversation about personal transformation. Steve opens up about his experiences with trauma, mental health, and the emotional weight he carried from childhood into adulthood. We explore how stubbornness shaped him, how tabletop role-playing games became a space for healing and connection, and the unexpected lessons found in the restaurant industry and fantasy storytelling alike. It’s a raw, reflective, and ultimately hopeful conversation about becoming the person you needed when you were younger.

0:00 our guest this week is Steve Strong, part of the “Dungeons in the Attic” podcast

3:30 Steves thoughts on the current state of mental health

5:50 Steve’s love for Kid Cudi

10:00 the value of asking yourself and others important questions

12:00 the power of connecting with people through the service industry

17:00 Atlas from Greek mythology and carrying the burdens of others on your shoulders

19:30 “The person I am now is all the things that I was never given as a child”

23:00 the traumatic and isolating events in Steve’s life that forced him to fix himself or kill himself

27:00 lessons in humility and stubbornness

32:00 a transforming compliment from his stepfather

35:00 You can always work a little bit day by day on yourself

36:30 “my thing now is trying to elevate people, not bury them”

43:45 Steve’s origin in the restaurant industry

48:00 getting addicted to being around other people and avoiding loneliness

51:00 Breaking down Dungeons and Dragons and other story based tabletop RPGs

54:00 escaping reality through these games

57:00 describing the cinematic world of “Dungeons in the Attic”

1:06:00 these games are about the journey, not a winner or loser

01:12:00 prioritizing story over rules in a rules-like game

1:19:00 Steve’s council

1:27:00 Be sure to check out

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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 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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Shout out to our favorite neighborhood screen printer JOKER INK  https://www.jokerink.com/

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.

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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Shout out to our favorite neighborhood screen printer JOKER INK  https://www.jokerink.com/

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?

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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Shout out to our favorite neighborhood screen printer JOKER INK  https://www.jokerink.com/

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!!!

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.

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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Shout out to our favorite neighborhood screen printer JOKER INK  https://www.jokerink.com/

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 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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Shout out to our favorite neighborhood screen printer JOKER INK  https://www.jokerink.com/

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

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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Join Whoop with our promotional code and get your first month free!

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Sign up for online therapy with our referral link.
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Shout out to our favorite neighborhood screen printer JOKER INK  https://www.jokerink.com/

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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Join Whoop with our promotional code and get your first month free!

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Sign up for online therapy with our referral link.
Get 20% off your first month with our podcast's link:

Shout out to our favorite neighborhood screen printer JOKER INK  https://www.jokerink.com/

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!!!