The literary world is vast. As they flip through the pages of their favorite pieces, readers often find themselves wondering, “how was this work created?” What influences your favorite fictional stories? How does an author develop complex and realistic characters across the pages of a book? To give us a deep dive on how he writes, we welcome to the show Dustin Grinnell who shares how reality inspires him to write his best-selling books, to flesh out characters in his work, and to let curiosity be stronger than fear.Dustin Grinnell is an award-winning Boston-based author who has ventured from short stories to sci-fi articles and novels. Dustin has also been published by many big media outlets like the Washington Post, Salon, VICE, and many more! What to listen for:00:23 – Intro04:31 – Chance Encounter: Meeting Dustin12:55 - Working on Mustang Makeover, Personal Essays, and Other Essays16:30 – Aha Moment with Empathy Academy21:54 – Authority without Guidance: The Stanford Prison Experiment23:29 – Reality Captured in Empathy Academy27:01 – Fleshing Out Complex Characters32:50 – “Let Curiosity Be Stronger Than Your Fear”34:57 – External and Internal Factors Influencing Characters40:29 – Manifesto of a Villain41:02 – The Light, Dark, and Blind Spot of Oneself50:47 – Authenticity, Self-Improvement, and Rejection56:19 – The Myth of Talent1:08:58 – Exposing Yourself to Triggers1:11:47 – The Cautionary Tale of Losing Yourself in Your Craft1:17:00 – Turning Pain to Art1:18:25 – Dustin’s Message to the World1:26:00 – Creating A Winning Pattern to Level UpMentioned Resources/Links:Dustin Grinnell | Website | InstagramEmpathy AcademyI genuinely appreciate your time and support, whether it’s through it’s through listening, sharing, leaving an honest review, or donating. A special thanks to my partner in life, Jeannette, my fantastic editor, Phil, today’s guest, Dustin, and of course, YOU—the curious and thorough type that drives growth from an idea and dream into something massive that moves the world. Until next time!Want to connect further? Follow me on Instagram!

Is there a Creator? Is Christianity the only way?There are a lot of questions in the world around different religions, beliefs, and denominations. People often wonder if what they believe in is the only truth.Answering some of the many questions that believers and non-believers have, we welcome Xavier Thomas on today’s show! In this episode Xavier shares his take on faith, morality, and Christianity. He openly witnesses on his faith journey and his perspective in Jesus being the way, the truth, and the life.Xavier Thomas is a bible study club president, school senior, athlete, and Anthony’s nephew, who hopes to cause positive change in the world through his faith. In his ministry, he hopes to lead people to freedom through their walk with Jesus. Watch out for his upcoming YouTube channel!What to Listen For:00:30 - Intro04:58 - The podcast debate’s origins09:10 - Podcast and debate disclaimer10:54 – “Is there a Creator?”13:21 - The Creator Analogy: A Painter14:32 - Proving that the Creator is real15:19 – “Is there a Creator that is not interacting with our lives any longer?”19:50 – Divine Intervention VS. “Shit happens!”22:20 – Fate: Are things really meant to happen or can we influence it?25:37 – The Creator, our dark history and the injustices of the modern world27:37 – “What if it is evil for you but they were taught it is good for them?”35:01 – The Boy Who Cried Wolf, and your personal values and principles43:21 – Universal Morality: What is truly good or bad?47:18 - “Is goodness born into us or taught by society?”55:14 – The Sermon on The Mount and its relevance59:27 – “Why is Christianity the only way?”1:28:48 – The synchronicity of the many versions of the BibleMentioned Resources/Links: Xavier Thomas | Instagram Ten CommandmentsI would like to thank everyone who shared their time, whether it’s through listening, sharing, leaving an honest review, or donating. A special thanks to my partner in life, Jeannette, my fantastic editor, Phil, today’s guest, Xavier, and of course, YOU—the curious and thorough type that drives growth from an idea and dream into something massive that moves the world. Until next time!Want to connect further? Follow me on Instagram!

“What am I doing here? I don’t belong. I’m a total fraud, and everyone is going to find out.” Ever had these thoughts? Admittedly, so have I. And this—imposter syndrome—is exactly what Stef Corgel and I dive into on today’s episode. Our conversation also leads to other powerful lessons in owning identity, avoiding non-reciprocal relationships, and breeding a culture of positive women. I also have some BIG NEWS that I’m excited to share with you all! Stef Corgel may be born and raised in California, but you can find this vivacious entrepreneur ev-er-y-where. When she’s not surfing, running, hooping, lifeguarding, or enjoying a festival, you’re likely to find her coaching virtual and group fitness classes, modeling for a fitness or lifestyle brand, or eating chocolate while she explores new business opportunities. She’s got a smile as big as her energy, and she leads a life centered around family, togetherness, and wellness. Her passion for encouraging people to optimize their life through movement is evident in her uplifting energy, support, and celebration of YOU. Please enjoy!What we discuss:00:25 Intro07:25 Baseline of passion for movement09:05 Encouraging others to be enthusiastic about wellness12:40 Life & fitness comes in phases14:40 Giving yourself grace & consideration after a life change 19:00 Learning the emotions of failure20:58 Cultural shift of women supporting each other22:00 The impact of community 27:15 Imposter Syndrome in the fitness world28:39 Being glorified for looks after recovering from an eating disorder 33:29 Stef flips the script36:40 Every struggle and effort to grow introduces a new skill and opportunity37:10 Leaning into the uncomfortable40:33 “Where I am now is the person I used to look up to”41:40 Anthony discusses his imposter syndrome & shares some news***45:06 Being the catalyst for positive changes the lives of others46:38 How self-doubt can be healthy in keeping you motivated & humble47:55 Growth is a non-negotiable in relationships49:00 Creating boundaries between acquaintances and friends52:15 Energy is the #1 currency53:30 Positive social consequence of catastrophes54:41 Classical vs neo friends: strength over length 56:10 Inspiration from non-competitive business conversations59:00 Rapid-fire questions for Stef1:01:55 Transitioning from fitness trainer to entrepreneur1:07:34 Stef shares a fear1:08:37 Taking movement on the move1:10:55 Looking for a life coach? Episode Resources:Stef Corgel | InstagramI genuinely appreciate your time and support, whether it’s through listening, sharing, leaving an honest review, or donating. A special thanks to my partner in life, Jeannette, my fantastic editor, Phil, today’s guest, Stef, and of course, YOU—the curious and thorough type that drives growth from an idea and dream into something massive that moves the world. Until next time…Want to connect further? Follow me on Instagram!

Does your Physical Therapist live in a van… down by the river? If yours doesn’t, I know a guy! In today’s episode, I’d like to introduce you to Dan Walden, a Licensed Physical Therapist and certified Stoke-master, who is stepping away from medical contracts to prioritize his passions. Not only is he a mental health advocate, but this mountain man also wants to purposefully coach you in creating a more connected, intentional life that you’re stoked about. From professional wakeboarding to mountain biking and surfing, he’s intentionally chosen to build and lead an experience-centric lifestyle. Today, we discuss how Dan has enhanced his lifestyle through lived experiences, adventure, building community through van life, and how failure and novelty can redirect your journey. Originally from Tennessee, Dan Walden has been van-lifing it cross-country for 6+ years with his gentle Golden Retriever, Coop. He’s a Physical Therapist by trade but has committed to the call of lifestyle performance coaching, in order to connect with and impact more people daily. If you’re in need of inspiration for adventure, positivity, mental wellness, community, connection and self-reflection, give Dan (& Coop) a follow on social media—you’lll be inspired! Please enjoy!What we discuss:00:25 Intro03:18 The van man in Truck-ee09:01 How the pandemic changed the landscape for his job11:01 Improving body endurance and durability15:40 ATP=high energy19:43 Choosing the van-life to create more connections22:27 People don’t like to hear hard truths23:06 Lifestyle-forward person23:40 Rich in experience, not in possession26:30 Your relationships suffer when you’re not your real self28:20 “Depression is your avatar saying it wants to be a different character”29:30 Living a life of novelty39:58 Failures can redirect your journey42:50 Being your best version of yourself for whatever you’re pursuing46:40 Trying new things based on lifestyle enhancement1:00:36 Journey vs. Destination1:02:57 The pain of regret vs. the pain of finishing1:07:11 Being in the moment1:14:42 Experience the van stoke!Episode Resources:Dan Walden | Instagram | YoutubeI genuinely appreciate your time and support, whether it’s through listening, sharing, leaving an honest review, or donating. A special thanks to my partner in life, Jeannette, my fantastic editor, Phil, today’s guest, Dan, and of course, YOU—the curious and thorough type that drives growth from an idea and dream into something massive that moves the world. Until next time…Want to connect further? Follow me on Instagram!

Is it ever okay to be unproductive? Absolutely. In fact, it can recharge you, combat work-life imbalance, prevent mental and physical burnout, and even foster creativity. Turning off the “always on” work culture is exactly what we dive into on today’s episode with my fellow Berkeley Bear, Talia Caldwell. She also drops some gems on pouring back into yourself, navigating sacrifices for success, practicing gratitude, building a tribe, and supporting black female writers. Proud, black LA native and former pro athlete, Talia Caldwell attended UC Berkeley, where she was the first women’s basketball player admitted to the Haas School of Business. Her basketball achievements include a PAC-12 Championship, a Women’s Final Four, and taking “traveling with the ball” to a new level—playing internationally for several years. Off court, you can still find Talia making headlines, as a NY Times contributor. Presently, she is a screenwriter and attends the USC School of Cinematic Arts, enjoys boxing, loving people, and investing in (black) communities. Please enjoy!What we discuss:00:25 Intro04:52 Being busy vs. being productive09:55 Starting ‘Echo Park Fund’ during the pandemic 16:00 Like basketball, life has quarters17:29 Pouring back into yourself19:36 Healthy boundary-setting23:09 “You’re poor because you’re lazy” is a fallacy26:30 Finding the best way to decompress29:10 Setting up conditions for success includes sacrifices33:47 Prayers, affirmations, gratitude41:09 Honesty Is always healthier in the long run42:21 Building a tribe based on energy, honesty, vulnerability, & humanity 47:55 Understanding vs. agreeing49:58 Be delusional about life53:23 Don’t “go with the flow” 55:59 Talia’s call to action: research black female writersEpisode Resources:Talia Caldwell | Instagram | Twitter | WebsiteNY Times article: Why the WNBA Loved Kobe BryantDonate to The Echo Park Fund The Firecracker FoundationPoet/Writer: Nikki GiovanniI genuinely appreciate your time and support, whether it’s through listening, sharing, leaving an honest review, or donating. A special thanks to my partner in life, Jeannette, my fantastic editor, Phil, today’s guest, Talia, and of course, YOU—the curious and thorough type that drives growth from an idea and dream into something massive that moves the world. Until next time…Want to connect further? Follow me on Instagram!

Today’s episode is an excerpt from a spontaneous IG live session with film maker, Kenny Hamlett. Apologies in advance for the inferior sound quality—I hope it doesn’t take too much focus off the conversation for you. If you’re a creative, or someone who’s simply wanting to learn new skills, you’ll find this episode relatable. We talk about making use of free resources versus paying for professional guidance, how to prioritize goals, seeking mentorship, and continuing to push yourself to “what’s next.” Please enjoy!What we discuss:00:00 Intro02:48 Use free resources or pay for someone’s expertise?03:45 Staying in your financial lane05:50 Warren Buffett’s 5/25 Rule to prioritize goals06:40 Seek mentorship from someone that you vibe with08:20 You learn in the process when you’re self-taught10:18 How Kenny has never received ‘bad advice’13:08 Protecting your work as if it’s a part of you16:50 “Put the medal in your drawer; let’s get back to work.”20:54 Celebrate, but you gotta remind yourself that you ain’t shitEpisode Resources:Kenny Hamlett | Instagram |Youtube | Website I genuinely appreciate your time and support, whether it’s through listening, sharing, leaving an honest review, or donating. A special thanks to my partner in life, Jeannette, my fantastic editor, Phil, today’s guest, Kenny, and of course, YOU—the curious and thorough type that drives growth from an idea and dream into something massive that moves the world. Until next time…Want to connect further? Follow me on Instagram!

Underground tunnels, toxic machismo and riots at the border—Oh my! Hailing from the banks of Rio Grande, from the inviting city of El Paso, we welcome David Varela to today’s show. An aficionado of local and world history, David’s passion for embracing El Paso’s identity is evident, despite some surprising facts about its dark past. In this episode, David also fearlessly shares his experience of coming out as a gay man in the Latin culture, and how “shape shifting” was necessary for maintaining—and creating—his own identity. David Varela is a local historian, city guide, and hotel concierge in El Paso. If you ever find yourself in this sunny border town, treat yourself to a city tour or an enveloping conversation with my personal favorite El Pasoan.Please enjoy!What to Listen For:00:30 Intro04:50 The astronomer vs the astronaut09:57 The identity of El Paso12:23 What makes El Paso unique17:58 El Paso claims first Thanksgiving in North America 20:48 Tolerated, but not accepted: David’s “coming out” experience42:45 Spread your wings when you’re ready to fly47:29 Remaining passionate for your city, even with its dark history51:02 Chinese Exclusion Act and Texas’ largest Chinatown53:50 Secret tunnels below the Turtle House in Sunset Heights01:03:10 El Paso Bath Riots 01:15:05 People of color are expected to not know the history01:17:10 Adding healthy value to the evolution/culture of a placeMentioned Resources/Links:David Varela | InstagramChinese Exclusion ActTunnels below the Turtle HouseEl Paso Bath RiotsI genuinely appreciate your time and support, whether it’s through listening, sharing, leaving an honest review, or donating. A special thanks to my partner in life, Jeannette, my fantastic editor, Phil, today’s guest, David, and of course, YOU—the curious and thorough type that drives growth from an idea and dream into something massive that moves the world. Until next time…Want to connect further? Follow me on Instagram!

Anthony sits down with his brother, Ryan Thomas, to talk about a plethora of topics ranging from the rebranding of Innertained Podcast to pilot life, navigating parenting styles, and the mental bounceback after an injury. Ryan also shares his fascination with the universe and leaves us with a cosmic mystery… that may leave you in the dark. Ryan Thomas is one of Anthony’s brothers, a Pilot for a commercial airline and the United States Air Force Reserves, and a self-proclaimed human. He has a BS in Psychology from WSU and is in (very slow) pursuit of his second bachelor’s degree in Physics. He’s a husband to a badass wife and father to two imaginative children. Please enjoy!What We Discuss:00:00 Intro01:55 Ryan is a “Slam-Clicker”04:27 Anthony’s “Dumb & Dumber” marketing moment05:54 Rebranding of “Innertained Podcast” 09:00 Ryan’s professional & educational background13:47 Ryan tears his Achilles tendon “saving America”18:00 Having a purpose/project can help battle depressive state20:25 High Fives Foundation for resources after life-altering accident22:58 Origin of Ryan’s fascination with astronomy27:00 Potential of extraterrestrial/intelligent life29:00 New Zealand’s proposal of not using AI in warfare32:42 Galaxy galore in Hubble Deep Field35:20 Correlation of intelligence & empathy including extraterrestrials 40:09 Olber’s Paradox: If the universe contains infinite luminous stars, why is it dark at night? 48:10 Possibility of 5th dimensional beings55:00 A documentary about contacting aliens via meditation01:04:40 Exploring familial nurturing based on their parents’ style 01:12:00 Not everyone equipped to identify a problem is equipped to solve a problem01:21:42 Navigating Parent-Teacher relationships01:25:20 Children’s behavioral accountability based on their interpretation of what happened 01:28:30 Learn to apologize to your children & admit when you’re wrong01:35:20 You’re a villain in someone’s story01:36:50 Pilot shares marriage counselor advice to passengerMentioned Resources/Links:Ryan Thomas | InstagramHigh Fives FoundationImage: Hubble Ultra Deep FieldBook: Project Hail Mary by Andy WeirDocumentary: Close Encounters of the Fifth KindI genuinely appreciate your time and support, whether it’s through listening, leaving an honest review, or donating. A special thanks to my partner in life Jeannette, my fantastic editor Phil, our guest today, Ryan, and of course YOU—the curious and thorough type that drives growth from an idea and dream into something massive that moves the world. Until next time…Want to connect further? Follow me on Instagram.

A chat with my nephew Nik is for anyone openminded, anyone who enjoys light-hearted laughter, and anyone that's open to learning a tiny bit about why anime is a healthy medium to consume.Please enjoy!-Anthony

Feel the vibrations of how damn great you are!

Host Anthony Thomas sits for a chat with his partner about how they are and are NOT "relationship goals". Key takeaway to improve your relationships:1) Weekly relationship review2) Relationship mission statementHope this helps you and your love live more fulfilled and have fun along the way!

How good are we at guessing?How much do we share about our needs?Are you really as supportive as you think you are?As friends, we can do better just by asking a question or two, no matter what phase of life we may be in. It is up to us to strengthen and lengthen our friendships. One way we can do that is through our friendship love language of support.I wish you healthy and happy friendships. Now go support someone you love :-)-Anthony

What was life like as one of the top Drill Instructors (Military Training Instructor or MTI) in the United States Air Force?How do you decide to cut off an old friendship?Master Sergeant Richardson answers all this and more in this episode. You can reach MS Richardson at any of the following:Instagram @ChukkiBizzleFacebook @beezibadSnap @beezibadTwitter @ffChuckDynastyMuch Love,-A.T.

When is the last time you went on a date?When is the last time you went on a date alone?We dove in a little bit on a unique but powerful form of self-love here and the hope is that you will take part in loving you. Share your dating story with me on Instagram HEREMuch love to you all, and thank you for listening,-Anthony

What do you know about being adopted?What do you know about the life of an adoptee or the family who decides to adopt?In this episode Host Anthony Thomas sits with Kim Miller, a Korean-born professional wardrobe stylist, who was adopted at 6 months old by a family in the U.S., breaks down a lot of misconceptions around the life of adoptees and adopters.Kim is a terrific energy on any film or photo set (and Anthony can say this from experience having worked on multiple national and global projects with her as the wardrobe stylist). Kim can be found on Instagram HEREIf you or someone you know should be interviewed on this podcast to share their perspective through optimism, please reach out to the host Anthony Thomas on his Instagram HERE and let me know!Much love and thanks for listening,-Anthony

If our intentions are good, why do we find ourselves in conflict?How can I know that what I am doing is the right thing?In this episode, we explore how perspective really does matter and our assumptions, and intentions can only take us so far.

How can we be more inclusive of groups we aren't connected with?In this era with so much attention given to the "Black Lives Matter" and "Stop Asian Hate" movements, are you, your friends, or your company doing diversity & inclusion right?Faith Briggs, Creative Producer, Partner at Camp 4 Collective, and all-around Professional Nerd is one of your best resources for becoming a champion of equity and inclusion. You can connect with Faith via her Instagram and her websiteThanks for sharing time to join the conversation and as always, send your ideas, input and feedback to Anthony via his Instagram or through his website

If we see danger heading straight for our loved one from a mile away, should we warn them or just let it play out?What if the danger is themselves?What if the danger is their abusive relationship?In this episode we explore attempting to save our loved ones as well as protecting our own energy in the process.Connect and share your feedback on Instagram @AnthonyThomas33 or at AnthonyJThomas.com Remember to claim your appreciations from today!Much Love,Anthony

They've been friends for over a decade, state lines separate their homes, and career paths are wildly different. So how do you keep friendships growing closer rather than apart over the years when spread out?These three best friends break down some of the principles to their success and share what you can look for in your friendships to stay close even when you're apart.Starring Professional Musician Anthony Francisco and Attorney at Law Ramzi Hamady with host Anthony Thomas Get ready to laugh with them and of course, as always, join the conversation by sending your thoughts, and input to Anthony Thomas on Instagram.Much love,Anthony

How long should we stay angry, or sad? How do we move on from those moments? In episode 4, Anthony talks about looking at our emotions in a different way than we typically do, in order to use them all to our advantage.So whatever emotion you're feeling right now, send your opinions on what you liked, disliked and how to make this podcast better, to any of the following:Instagram: @anthonythomas33Website: www.Outertained.comEmail: ContactAnthonyThomas33@gmail.comYou can listen to the Innertained Podcast anywhere you get your podcasts as well as on youtubeThe excitement to hear from you and keep sharing with you is growing.Much Love,Big Ant