Boy Open Up

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.  As we close out a remarkable 2021 we talk about the biggest gift received this year and why it's more important than stuff or things.  This is something unbeknownst to either of us we have been working towards for nearly two decades and it came to fruition after 16 years of hard work.  This is a major victory for what we will build in the future and has opened the door for a lifetime of continuing our work beyond this podcast in the real world. 

In this episode we recap some huge events over the past month.  I literally almost died a couple weeks ago and it shook us both to the core. It refocused us and deepened our priorities.  Living through an episode like that really blessed us and sharpened our vision.  We are EXCITED to bring this next chapter of Boy Open Up to all of you! Because we have some really remarkable opportunities approaching and have some BIG news to share.  Catch up with us on this episode and stay tuned as we move through this season and march towards new beginnings!

This episode we recap our recent trip to the east coast and this is one of my favorite episodes I've recorded.  We tie in so much of what has made Boy, Open Up what it is and discuss what it was like connecting and reconnecting with Christine's family.  In what turned out to be several moments that will be indelibly etched in my mind and my heart forever.  We also start to talk about some ideas we are formulating and directions we are deciding on taking some of our enterprises and opportunities.  Tune in to hear about our classic Italian in Little Italy moment, our historical highlights, our connection points, and more.  Thank you for Opening Up with us!

We go to the other side of the mic in this episode and check in with Christine.  It's been such a big year for our family and our companies that we needed to see how this has felt for Christine.  As always she never fails to dig deep and really open up about what her narratives are right now and how much it has weighed on her this year to keep up the relentless pace that we lead in our lives.  We hope you get as much out of this episode as we did breaking it down.  Thank you for Opening Up with us! 

In this episode we dive into one of our recent disagreements and how we process through them in real time.  This is always such a tough area because it's SO vulnerable.  How we argue or "fight" is a side most of us feel shame over and digging into that was challenging for me to do today.  I feel there is so much room for growth in these times with people in our lives and in moments like this where we let our guard down and openly discuss our character flaws, fears, insecurities, and shortcomings.  This is where we reveal more of our humanity than anything  else.  It is just hard to be open in times like this and yet that is the most effective way to grow through and solve those situations.  Listen in as we share where we fall short, what we do wrong, and more importantly what we get right in this journey together as partners.  Thank you for listening and for Opening Up with us. 

In this episode we stay on the line we've been traveling with regards to addiction therapy/treatment/rehab.  We start looking at what causes these manifestations and specifically how much of a role trauma (in all its forms) plays a role in these manifestations and outlet behaviors.  Join us as we walk down this road and continue unpacking what a real solution looks like to people struggling with addiction, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, loneliness, pornography addiction, actual illness, ETC...This is the tip of the iceberg for where we are heading and what we are discussing! Thank you for listening and for Opening Up with us. 

This second episode is devoted to the failings of the therapeutic process in current addiction therapy models.  We dig right into the current model, practices, and WHY it's not working.  We also begin to discuss what the future should look like in terms of this process.  This is just the beginning of what we believe is a revolutionary approach and model to the world of addiction therapy and rehabilitation. Thank you for Opening Up with us and for making this podcast possible! 

What if there was no need to use the word addict anymore?  Today we discuss why the addiction therapy industry has whiffed on helping more people find real solution to the age old problem of addiction.  This is the first of a series of talks we are going to give on the failings of a wildly unregulated and by all measurements catastrophically unsuccessful model.  The good news is that there is a solution and help is coming to those suffering from substance abuse.  

In this episode we Open Up bravery and in particular the willingness to have brave conversations.  It can be incredibly challenging and easy to shrink from when we are faced with these opportunities for growth and we dig into the perspective and mindset that has helped us lean into them and find ways to grow through them and embrace them.  Join us as we continue to sifting through these HUGE moments in life to step into the unknown and BRAVE the conversations that scare us the most. 

In this episode we dive into the vicious cycle of change and brutal backlash we have emotionally whenever we experience a setback or failure.  We talk about what that looks like, how to embrace it, and how to process through it.  Sharing from our lived experiences we dig right into one of the nastier human emotions that we all carry.  Shame.  We love to unpack topics like this and connect the strings of our lives to them because we can all identify with moments, and feelings like this. Thank you for Opening Up with us! 

Today we recorded this episode from our car before a date night because our life is constant motion.  I (Doug) absolutely loved this episode because there was such a unique component to being out in a busier public area and recording our podcast.  It was just new and fresh.  We did more of an interview style conversation today and it flowed.  We dig into some really fascinating topics with regards to athletics and coaching  and the way they open us up and reveal so much of our emotional strongholds and in some cases our shame.  We also unknowingly brushed up against the Olympics and the emotional toll of being an athlete before we had found out about Simone Biles withdrawal from the gymnastics competition.  We also reveal our big Olympic moments as kids that defined our viewing experiences and athletic pursuits growing up! Thank you as always for Opening Up with us. 

We opened season 5 with a bang and a big talk on burnout.  This week we examine what it looks like to rebound from burnout and how we build back and build better.  The goal as always is to move forward and advance our message, our cause, our company, our family, our relationships, etc.  How do we do that?  What skills can we implement to find a happier and healthier approach to achieving our goals?  What does it all look like starting at a micro level?  We dive into this and SO MUCH more this week.  Enjoy that first few minutes...Christine sets the hook! 

After 3 months on hiatus and ALL the life we are finally back to recording and carrying the BOU message to everyone.  Marriage, loss, emotional upheaval, buying/selling a home, you name it we've done it the last few months and we both burned out a bit. Especially Doug.  Now we are in position to begin creating and producing again with the help of our newest team member!  To all of you that follow us, listen, and open up with us, THANK YOU!  We are grateful for the support and the continued opportunities to grow together.  Here's to the future. 

In this episode we dive directly into some topics that are typically kept in the shadows for men in our culture/society.  We dive into Doug's recent experience with a hip hop dance lesson and a pedicure for his birthday.  Then we go even further down the rabbit hole and discuss his feelings and curiosity regarding botox.  More and more we just keep discovering that talking about what goes on in our minds is the path to truly sorting through it.  Don't miss out on the laughs and the lessons in this episode.  And find out what Christine has really been interested in diving into... 

In this episode we dive into what has been going on the past month and speaking to the silence you've all seen on this podcast.  With so much swirling in our lives and most of it truly incredible I have felt a sense of needing to pull back and take care of me more and more.  I found that was the right call.  The real difference is we've made specific changes to our lives to better accommodate all that we have in action each day and ASKED for help in the process.  I'm still in process and still learning.  I appreciate all of the support and encouragement from the BOU family!  (I = Doug) Because I am a mess still at times and I don't have it all together. 

In this exclusive interview we talk to an instagram influencer AKA @that_sassy_mama about her experience with alcohol abuse, rape, recovery, affairs, relapse, pregnancy, parenting, recovery again, and more. This sweeping interview really does cover it all and we are so grateful to have the opportunity to be part of this conversation. Whoever you are, wherever you're at in life we can relate to these feelings and this transparency. Thank you all for Opening Up with us!

We travel back to one of our first episodes on this podcast and reflect on a personal journey of growth and understanding. This is a REALLY COOL episode for us and poignant reminder that it's important to stop, look back, and reflect on where we were vs where we are. Life has a funny way of bringing up old lessons with a new look and we uncover it today. We hope you enjoy this episode as much as we do! Thank you for Opening Up with us!

In this episode we open up procrastination and what it really boils down to for most of us: fear. We allow our fears and insecurities to derail our efforts and stop them altogether. Today we talk about how to combat them. What kind of people you want in your corner and on your team so you can stop stopping and start starting. If you ever want help or advice feel free to message us and we'll help you...FOR FREE. Thank you for Opening Up with us!

In this episode we Open up the single GREATEST skill required to achieve success, accomplish your goals, and live out your dreams. Guess what? It's not sexy. It's simple. What do you think about it?

In this episode we sit down with Nathalie and Hailey. Two seniors from the local high school who have spent their entire senior years in quarantine. We break down what life has been like since COVID shut things off for young adults. How they've coped with such dramatic changes to the social structure, what's next for them, and what the unexpected gifts of this pandemic have been for them individually. These are two amazing young women that we are lucky to know and call friends. One set to graduate early and the other on track to be valedictorian. It's always incredible to have people join us on the show and Open Up about their lives. Listen to what it's been like for these two and enjoy the laughs along the way!

In this episode we Open Up about perseverance. Given the way the world has been impacted and disconnected perseverance has been required from all of us. We Open Up our Why. Our passion. Our motivation. How we continue to move forward when times and life are just tough. We also have some tips for you and how you can adapt to these unique times we live in. Thank you for Opening Up with us!

In this episode we unpack and open up Christine's latest adventure and her mission right now. How it coincides with her life and passion. This is also a great look into some of her internal narratives and how she is working through them to grow into this newfound role with her bold vision. Bringing more love to the world for all people everywhere is the goal. The journey has just begun in 2021 and we thank you for opening up with us and supporting BOU. Listen in today and learn all about what LYB is, why it is, and where it's going!

In this episode we dive into goals, goal setting. Why it's important. What is and is not healthy about it. AND we directly Open Up something BIG Christine is working on, what her goals are, and how she can get started working towards her goals. We also make sure to really define what this process looks like, how It feels, and why it's important to FAIL miserably at the goals we set. Join us as we Open Up goals!

In this episode we recap our Christmas experience and how Doug nearly ruined everything by assuming Christine had lost a very important gift. Come for the debate and chic comments. Stay for the sincere recognition of fault and willingness to be a better person tomorrow. We hope you had a happy holiday season and you enjoy this episode. Thank you for Opening Up with us!

In this episode we dive into the holiday season and some of our favorite memories, traditions, and of course some of our funniest moments. Join us as we travel down memory lane and get ready for the turning of another page. Thank you all for Opening up with us!

In this exclusive interview we talk to Christopher Dickie the CEO of Natural State Recovery in Arkansas. We dive into Chris's life and background, what led him to this incredible position to be of service and save lives, football, and Coffee. Enjoy this interview with a lifelong friend and inspiration.

Today we had an off the cuff and candid conversation that dives into Doug's source of motivation and inspiration. His why. This was far and away one of the most fun episodes we've recorded and touches on what he finds to be incredibly inspirational every day. We hope that this episode makes you laugh and helps you examine your own intrinsic motivation. Tell us. What's your why?

In this episode we discuss what it looks like to show up for others. What being present for them in their time of need really looks like and WHY it's vital we make this effort. We look at bigger picture life moments and come down to what it looks like in every day life. How you show up for others > anything else you can give them.

In this episode we interview Chris who has lived experience battling Anorexia Nervosa and what their journey has been like. Our guest is male and dives into the feelings, insecurities, and stigmas around being a "man" and suffering from an eating disorder. The way this connection came about was really incredible and we hope you enjoy Chris's message of experience, strength, and hope. Thank you for Opening Up with us!

Today we dive into the ways we cope, escape, and connect in a socially and emotionally distanced world. We also talk about the unique opportunities this once in a lifetime situation has presented us. Happy Thanksgiving to you all. Thank you for Opening Up with us!

In this episode we talk about what resiliency is as a mindset, attitude, and ultimately how we can adopt the resilient lifestyle. The world is in a state of great turmoil right now, people are hurting, we are cut off from one another, infighting is rampant, and we are living more emotionally distanced than any generation in the modern era. It's time to start working towards one another and together rather an against and away. If you like this episode please give us a 5* rating and share this with your friends. Thank you for opening up with us!

In this exclusive interview and season 2 finale we dive into the narratives and lived experiences that have shaped the Burgeoning entrepreneur, recent NBC Titan Games Finalist, Rogue Fitness Sponsored Athlete, 1st Form Athlete, and former CrossFit Games competitor. This was an incredible conversation and not enough good things can be said about how willing Margaux was to be Opened up on the spot. We are so grateful to her for her willingness to participate and flexibility. Go to her website www.thegoatwine.com to select some now! Stay on after the closing so you can hear how genuine of a person she is and why she is so successful. Margaux is as authentic as they come. Follow her on instagram and share this podcast with people to help her business grow!

In this 4th chapter of Christine's story we look at life after the passing of her mother. What her journey was like and has been since then. Where her life is now. What her goals are for the future. And how much she wants to build something bigger and better than Doug ever has! The competitive nature and her indomitable spirit shine bright in this fourth and final (for now) installment of her story. Listen in and get ready for an exciting guest next week!

In this episode we dive into the final years of College for Christine and her Mothers terminal illness comes full face. You also get great insight into Christine's personality, wit, and vocabulary. Along the way connections are reformed with family that been dormant for so many years. Today's 3rd episode is easily the most powerful conversation we've had on Boy Open Up. Let us know what you think!

In this second episode on the series that dives into Christine's life we look at life after high school and break down the infamous "wedding" story. All the things that go into caring for her terminally ill mother, navigating college, and reaching out to reconnect with family. This is insight into who she is. You will love this! Thank you for Opening Up with us!

In this episode we dive into Christine's childhood and adolescence to get a clearer image of what shaped the woman she is today. We unpack family dynamics, big life moments, and all the lived experiences that led to her unique lived experiences. Join us as we travel through her life in the first of a multi part series! This is must hear stuff! As always, THANK YOU for Opening Up with us!

In this episode we begin unpacking why affairs happen and what actually leads to our need for anesthesia. We get into the actual causes and why an affair or distraction is purely a symptom of a larger problem. This is a topic that is rarely discussed publicly and we really dive into it here. Thank you for opening up with us and having these tough conversations!

In this episode we dive directly into Doug's insecurities and shame around his own body image. This is an uncut conversation where we directly address the thoughts and feelings around his body image and his insecurity. Listeners be aware that these are intensely emotional conversations and we have them in a safe place. If you're going to do so, do the same with a professional. Thank you for Opening Up with us!

This conversation takes a deep dive into our own intimate relationship. What we value most about the partnership we share with each other and...the things we tend to rub each other the wrong way with. We had a lot of FUN during this conversation and we hope you will too when you listen to it. Thank you for Opening UP with us!

In this episode we dive into the easy accessibility of pornography and the challenges it poses to our children, our relationships, and our own development. This is a topic we all have an opinion on and as parents its fairly universal. As adults in intimate relationships our relationship with pornography takes on a very different dynamic. In our current social structure everything is sexualized and yet there is no real education, engagement, or allowance for exploring or understanding sexuality. The topic itself connotes a great deal of shame. Today we begin to scratch the surface of this epidemic.

In this episode we dig into each of our own experiences with confidence and why we feel the way we do about our own abilities. We discuss where we are currently and what it takes to develop and build real self confidence. This episode comes down to asking ourselves some questions and being willing to give some very real and raw answers. Thank you for opening up with us! Tell us what you think of this episode and how you embrace your inner ability!

In this episode we directly dive into one of my shortcomings and where it comes from. This episode stemmed from a quote I found that directly spoke the common behavior we have of treating symptoms vs causes. We numb because of how we feel. We are generally aware of our feelings but rarely able to pinpoint or associate where they come from and why they're recurring. We end the episode with an exercise to help grow through these types of behaviors.

In this episode we dive into the divisive nature and problematic platform for communication on the social media giant Facebook. We discuss solutions and options for better and more open conversations on these emotionally charged and incredibly relevant subjects. Today we really dig into a shocking interaction I had on Facebook and what I'm going to do to be more effective in communicating going forward.

Today we interview a therapist with over 20 years experience in the fields of trauma, addiction, and the treatment or therapeutic process. We examine current methods and where there is a large gap in the diagnosis and treatment of these social epidemics.

In this follow up to our previous episode on hard conversations we dive into where we are as a nation currently and specifically with racism and racial injustice. This episode is unedited and raw. We have a real conversation about racism and where we are at with it in society. The thoughts and opinions here expressed are solely our own and no one else.

Big conversations can define our lives and our behaviors. We all know that the big conversations are BIGGER than they need to be because of what we make them in our minds. Today we discuss a couple big conversations we've had, how often we've failed at them, and what the results of those big conversations have been. Thanks for Opening up with us.

In this episode we break down how important it is to have a growth mindset vs sitting or staying in justified anger. We can all relate to these types of feelings in everyday life and certainly can pick out some large moments that have resulted in justified anger. What we break down today is how we move from a victim stance to being proactive in our own growth and progress.

Today we talk about what facing our fears looks like and how we go about doing it. We take some major life changing moments for us, dig into them, and break them down.

Today we dig into what caring for others looks like and how Love and Tolerance is where it should always start.

This is the conclusion of our 3 part series outlining what has led to where we are today and what this journey has looked like for us.

In this episode we dig further into Doug's story and unpack more of what his journey after the accident was like.