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Share The Struggle

Episodes

219
Sept. 18, 2024

From Diapers to Deadlines: The Ultimate Balancing Act 219

As we prepared for our biggest event of 2024, the Freiburg Fair, an unexpected twist added a layer of excitement and chaos to our lives—parenthood! Join us on Share the Struggle as we navigate the uncharted waters of being first-time parents, balancing the demands of a growing business while embracing the joys and challenges of a newborn. This episode is packed with candid moments, from playful banter about working from home to managing a flood of apparel orders, all colored with humor and heart...
218
Sept. 11, 2024

Surviving and Thriving in Early Parenthood 218

What happens when your first week of parenthood meets the chaos of real life? Join us as we laugh, cry, and navigate the whirlwind that is our new world with baby Paisley. These early days are all about finding strength in our struggles and cherishing the small victories, much like our podcast's beginnings during the pandemic. Ever wondered what it's like to take a newborn to a crowded craft fair? We share some heartwarming and humorous stories from our first family outings with Paisley. Imagin...
217
Sept. 4, 2024

Welcoming Paisley Reign: The Chaos and Joy of Life and Fast Labor 217

Ever tried managing barn chores while your body signals the arrival of a new family member? Our latest episode captures the whirlwind moments of welcoming Paisley Reign into our lives, from the unexpected onset of labor to the emotional and exhilarating delivery room experience. Feel the tension and joy as we juggle early morning contractions with barn duties, and laugh with us through humorous and candid moments that brought levity to this life-changing event. Join us as we navigate through th...
216
Aug. 28, 2024

Fairground Hustle and Family Anticipation 216

Imagine being on the brink of a major fair at one of your favorite places on earth, the Windsor Fairgrounds, with an extra Saturday to supercharge your business. That's where we kick off this electrifying episode of Share the Struggle. Join me as I share my joy of returning to this beloved venue and delve into the significance of embracing life's struggles for personal growth. From the value of uncomfortable conversations to the ways our insecurities can spark disagreements, I’ll guide you throu...
215
Aug. 21, 2024

Chaos and Camaraderie: An Unforgettable Day on Interstate 215

A roadside breakdown to create a day filled with chaos and camaraderie? Picture this: our trusty camper, Old Red, breaks down on Interstate 95 just outside the Gardner exit, sending our plans into a tailspin. With smoke billowing from the engine, we faced a failed radiator hose and ensuing mayhem. Thankfully, our friends Kyle and Julia came to the rescue, underscoring the power of a solid support system during crises. Through this ordeal, we discuss finding strength in adversity and how unexpect...
Aug. 14, 2024

Are you ready? Parenthood and Professional Life 214

Ever wondered if you're truly ready for the monumental changes life throws at you? Come along with me as I unpack this very question in our latest episode of the Share the Struggle podcast. As a 42-year-old soon-to-be dad, I face the daunting balance of family and business responsibilities head-on. Through personal stories and candid reflections, we explore how growing through struggles, rather than just enduring them, fosters genuine growth and understanding. You'll hear all about my recurring ...
213
Aug. 7, 2024

Cherished Memories and the Chaos Preparing for a New Life 213

What happens when the joy of welcoming a new life collides with the chaos of preparation? Join us as we share the highs and lows of Paisley Reign's baby shower, from the intense emotions of planning and hosting to the bittersweet moments of seeing it all come to an end. We'll talk about the concept of nesting and the transformation of our home, while reflecting on the invaluable support we've received. You'll hear how we've managed to find strength during challenging times and the importance of ...
212
July 31, 2024

The Changing Spirit of the Olympics: From Unity to Division 212

Have the Olympics lost their magic? As a kid, I couldn't wait to gather around the TV with my family, bursting with pride as we cheered on our athletes. But now, the spirit of unity seems overshadowed by protests and divisive moments. Join me as we recount the transformation of the games, examining how anti-American sentiments and disrespect toward Christian faith have shifted the Olympics from a beacon of patriotism to a source of disillusionment. America’s athletes have historically been symb...
211
July 24, 2024

Personal Reflections, Political Shifts, and Preparing for Parenthood 211

What happens when you embrace vulnerability and turn your struggles into stories of empowerment? This week on the Loud, Proud American podcast, we reflect on the transformative power of sharing personal experiences, fears, and hopes. With 211 weeks under our belt, we celebrate the close-knit, supportive community we've built and welcome new listeners to join our journey. Our candid conversations touch on the importance of openness and the strength found in facing uncomfortable truths together. ...
210
July 17, 2024

Fight. Fight. Fight For A United America 210

America, we need to talk. The attempted assassination of President Trump is one of the most shocking events in recent history, and it has left a deep emotional and political scar on our nation. This episode is a heartfelt reflection on the critical importance of unity, transparency, and strength in the face of adversity. We tackle the intense political divide, President Biden inciting violence, and the hypocrisies in political rhetoric. This isn't just another political rant; it's an urgent call...
209
July 10, 2024

Navigating Challenges, and Reflecting on American Freedoms 209

What if the secret to personal growth lies in the power of community and embracing uncomfortable conversations? Join us as we explore the essence of fair season and how our collective struggles can shape our lives profoundly. We kick things off with a heartfelt discussion on the importance of unity and growth, celebrating our listeners and welcoming new members to our spiritual, positive tribe. Reflect on the challenges and joys of connecting with others and how these experiences build us over t...
208
July 3, 2024

You Need Inspiration or Desperation 208

Have you ever found yourself at the crossroads of inspiration and desperation? Tony Robbins once said, "In life, you need either inspiration or desperation," and that powerful notion forms the backbone of this special episode of the Share the Struggle Podcast. As we celebrate our four-year anniversary, we reflect on the highs and lows, from a dip in business sales in June to the bustling anticipation for July. This episode is a heartfelt ode to our loyal listeners and an exploration of how strug...
207
June 26, 2024

Humor and Heart in Marriage 207

What happens when a weekend festival, eight years of marriage, and a viral moment collide? We're here to tell you all about it! This episode kicks off with a recap of our latest festival escapades and reflections on our journey together. We chat about the growth that comes from relationship struggles and how those uncomfortable conversations can actually bring us closer. And, of course, we can't help but laugh about the viral Hawk Tuah incident that had everyone talking. Ever wondered if someon...
206
June 19, 2024

Celebrating Community: Surprises, and Acts of Kindness 206

What if an unexpected gift could change the course of your week? Join us as we recount the whirlwind of emotions, laughter, and gratitude that unfolded during Bike Week and a surprise birthday celebration. From navigating the heat and hangovers to celebrating new and old friendships, we share personal anecdotes that highlight the value of camaraderie and the growth that comes through struggles. You'll hear about the heartwarming generosity of friends like Matt and Sarah Perkins, who surprised us...
205
June 12, 2024

Finding Growth in Uncomfortable Moments 205

What happens when your biggest event of the year takes an unexpected nosedive? Join me on today's Share the Struggle Podcast as I unpack the rollercoaster that was Laconia Bike Week at Bentley Saloon. Despite a disappointing start with attendance down and vendors seeing their sales cut in half, I find hope in the upcoming ride and tattoo contest that could turn things around. We'll dissect the impact of logistical hiccups and unpredictable weather, and I'll share my aspirations for future events...
204
June 5, 2024

Emphasizing Progress Over Perfection 204

Imagine taking on the overwhelming responsibilities of a late parent, juggling financial pressures, and supporting a pregnant wife—all while trying to keep a business afloat. This episode of Share the Struggle Podcast promises candid insights into how these daunting challenges can be met with resilience and optimism. Through personal stories and heartfelt anecdotes, we explore the transformative power of creating happiness from within and the importance of celebrating incremental progress, even ...
203
May 29, 2024

Transforming Worry into Creative Energy 203

What if embracing life's toughest challenges could be your greatest source of strength? Join us on this heartfelt episode of the Share the Struggle Podcast as we unpack the art of growing through adversity. With a mix of candid humor and musical improvisation, we dive into how uncomfortable conversations can build resilience and the importance of finding joy, even on the most exhausting days. Get ready to laugh, reflect, and find some valuable insights to uplift your spirit. Ever wondered how s...
202
May 22, 2024

Finding Happiness and Building Bonds in Life and Business 202

Have you ever found yourself pondering the true essence of happiness while navigating the ebbs and flows of life? This week, we unfurl the canvas of our lives, touching on the poignant reality of social isolation and the heartening embrace of community spirit. Join us as we recount the lessons and laughter from a weekend vendor event that proved to be more than a fair-weather friend, and the relationships that blossomed from the shared belief in our craft. We all know that family ties can be as...
201
May 15, 2024

Laughter, Loss, and the Lessons of Life's Transitions 201

As I sit down to share this episode with you, my heart is heavy with the tender reflections on the loss of my godfather, Big Al Spencer, yet it's also lightened by the joy of new beginnings as we navigate the complexities of personal growth and emotional healing, touching on the bittersweet realities that come with change. With the warmth of cherished family tales and the honesty of personal challenges, we journey through the highs and lows together, uncovering the strength in vulnerability and ...
200
May 8, 2024

The Courage to Reinvent 200

When life hurls us into its stormiest weather, where do we find our calm? This episode is a celebration, not just of our 200th time around the mic together, but of the raw, transformative journeys we've each undertaken. I'm opening up about the milestones and missteps, the shared wisdom from an insightful friend that's acted as a beacon through my darkest days. Here's to the stories that bind us, the shared human experience of facing life's tornadoes, and finding that center of quiet determinat...
199
May 1, 2024

From Joyous Expectations to a Voyage Through Vulnerability 199

When joyous news becomes a tapestry of complex emotions, it shakes the very foundation of our expectations. My heart laid bare, I recount the announcement that was supposed to herald happiness but instead became a catalyst for a profound exploration of vulnerability and the human spirit. We navigate the stormy seas of loss, healing, and the quest for wholeness, illuminated by the imminent arrival of baby Paisley. The poignant decision to intertwine the legacy of my late father within my son's na...
198
April 24, 2024

Embracing Life's Resistance 198

Join me as I share the comically painful on-air mishap that brings authenticity to our story, and how we're preparing for our own draft day style gender reveal - a personal milestone that interweaves with topics of fear, resistance, and the pursuit of the American dream. Resistance can be as subtle as a perfectionist's hesitation or a busy schedule but it's always there, shaping our decisions. In this episode, we peel back the layers of manufactured barriers that plague us all, from the entrepr...
197
April 17, 2024

With Humility Comes Wisdom 197

We're rolling out the red, white, and blue carpet to give you a transparent tour of the first Loud Proud American event of 2024. My wife and I are living proof that American dreams are woven from the threads of hard work, passion, and a sprinkle of madness. As we recount the setup shenanigans at Mohegan Sun, the electric first sale, and the highs and lows of a tattoo convention buzzing with Ink Master royalty, you're invited to peek behind the curtains of a vendor's life. Amidst the chaos, we ce...
196
April 10, 2024

Make Peace With It Or Make A Change 196

As I look back on the early days of Loud Proud American, the decision to soak in the New England Tattoo Expo as visitors, not vendors, stands out as a pivotal moment in our brand's story. It's these reflections on growth through adversity that shape our latest chat, where we peel back the layers of making tough choices when life throws us curveballs. From confronting perfectionism to the anticipation of our next big event at Mohegan, join me as we explore the essence of timing, preparedness, and...