He Walks Like a Cowboy

Today, I read to you the story of my dear friend Dan. The history, the diagnosis of cancer, the positive manner he fought it with, the chance of his dying thousands of miles away from his wife and friends, and his "Rescue Squad" who went out to Colorado to drive him him. This is one not to miss dear friends. A story filled with the meaning of life. Dan said the song, "The Master" by the Doobie Brothers, was one of his guideposts in dealing with the end of his life.  Here's a link to that song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AsLLe6YN6sI 

Sit on back and relax dear friends as Jonah shares with you the wisdom he has collected from his 40's and the ways he plans to utilize it in his 50's! Plenty to learn and take with you in this final episode of Season 2!

Today we meet Jason Ballard. Born female. Transitioned to a male. And is ready to help you understand why this is nothing to be uncomfortable about. With all of the changes happening in gender and identity, we go to one of the clearest vices I have met on the subject. Do not miss this chance to sit and understand. https://theacronymproject.com/

This week we visit another chapter from my newest book; The Strangest of Places. And to help me out, I bring in two of the best friends I have ever had, Marc & Lowell. The chapter we read is about the three of us and the bottomless depths of young male immaturity. Hope you enjoy! https://www.amazon.com/Strangest-Places-Jonah-Berger/dp/B08X65NLGR Check out Marc and Lowell's podcast: www.marcandlowell.com

This isn't Mayberry, but it is close. And the time has come to learn the ups and downs of being a Mayor in small town USA. What is the path that leads to leading a town, what is the day to day like, and how do you go about the impossible task of pleasing everyone?? Meet Mayor Sue Leeming of DeWitt, Michigan. My town and a place I love. A rare chance to hear what goes on in the mind of a leader. This conversation does not disappoint. http://www.dewittmi.org/

Today I sit down with a rare soul. Sarah Gentry, dear friend, gay woman, and evolving resource on gender identity. We spend our time together touring through the murky waters with an honest and fearless conversation. Do not miss it, my friends! https://www.thetrevorproject.org/

Death is a part of life. And there is so much to be learned by caring for people as they are living their final days. Meet Jonathan Edenbaum. The man who started and runs the senior home that my Grandmother lived and died in, and that my father is currently living in. Learn what it takes to do this difficult work with a smile on your face. This is a man who is showing the way to a better community, one resident at a time. https://www.edenkosherhomes.com/index.html

Belly up to the bar pards and order up a cold one from none other than Ryan Skeelz. Skater, Brewer, entrepreneur, and all-around good guy. We talk about life on the alternative side. We discuss the journey to brewing and the guts to open uo a brewery on your own terms. Then we get into Covid and how a small business built on passion, stays afloat during the trying times. This next episode of "Pandemic Positives" teaches us, with a smile, that if you invest in your community, your community will invest in you. http://www.baerebrewing.com/

The wisdom is found with the old. This is a simple concept that has become lost in our culture. We value youth and while youth is wonderful, to find real sage wisdom, you should be looking to those who have traveled. Enter John Lamberts. Staff at my wife's high school growing up, friend to my wife later on, friend to me now, and a man who walks it like he talks it. Just sit back and enjoy a reminder of the true and wonderful spirit of the human race! https://takeflyte.org/about-us/

Come sit a spell and meet Melissa Lalonde. A dear ole friend who has been through a Lions' share of heavy loss and come out swinging on the other side. We go through the many times that life has knocked her down, the lessons learned from getting back up and why above all, she walks with laughter. https://www.marchofdimes.org/

Today we sit down with my cousin once removed, Steph Goris. A nurse who works for the county health department. We talk about serving in public health during the time of covid. The challenges she faces trying to do her work, the roller-coaster of emotions that comes with her work, and the unique perspective she has to lend on this pandemic that WE are facing. There is a calm to be gained by listening to an informed, passionate, and knowledgeable human being. One who gets up every day and fights uphill for our benefit. https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus/0,9753,7-406-98178_103214_104822---,00.html

Today we open Season 2 of He Walks Like a Cowboy with a verbal stroll through the steps you can take to change this crazy world into a sweet place again. Some genuine things you can work into your daily routine that will help to rejuvinate your sense of hope. Gonna be a great season y'all so let's saddle up and head on down the trail.  hewalkslikeacowboy.com

Today Jonah speaks about building community. One hamburger at a time. The problems of the world can be overwhelming but there are small ways to remedy that. Get to know your neighbor. A year's long tradition from life with friends in Colorado grew into a new tradition with strangers in Michigan. Getting to know the people you see and live near can be a great start. Developing the lost skill of talking to people and establishing connection even and especially with those who have differing opinions from your own. These are the seeds that can grow into beautiful fruit that may save our society.

Meet Gary DeVries. Pastor, Hospital Chaplain, Father, and also my father-in-law. This is a rare soul of a man who sees the world through a perspective that is so unique you will not want the interview to end. We talk about his journey to pastoral calling and chaplaincy. We talk about his adjustment to having a child with special needs. We discuss life in the hospital when you are trying to care for the patients and the staff. And we discuss what it is like when your 26 year old Christian daughter brings home a 42 year old Jewish man. https://cdgcare.org/donations-and-support/

Come and meet Season Ciriello. A wise and vibrant 16 ear old who is adjusting to the fact that she now has a disease, and it helping others along the way. She reminds us that people can sometimes adjust easily to challenge and sometimes it takes a lot longer. The future is bright my friends with this amazing young woman. www.cmtausa.org

If you want a 40 minute class on perspective, sit down and listen to this truly rare conversation with Sally McCance. Upon hearing the news that her unborn daughter will have Down Syndrome, her journey of looking up and sharing the good nws with the world began. The roller coaster is a blessing to this family. Who show us that attitude is simply everything. www.talltalesranch.org

Today we sit down with Rai Ganesan. A young woman who will leave you feeling hopeful for the future. She tells us about the life of an adopted child who finds out that she has a hereditary disease and has to navigate those waters on her own. She is amazing with the way she has greeted this curveball and focused her attention on creating positive change for others. This is an interview not to miss. @cmtchronicles www.cmtausa.org

Today we meet a dear friend of mine Rick Meyerin. Camp Director, servant of the people, and true Michigander. We talk about growing up with a blue collar, his path towards running an amazing camp for impoverished youth, and we talk about how much destiny there is to be experienced by those who's minds are open. Don't miss this y'all. https://www.campblodgett.org/

Today, Jonah reads a favorite chapter from his newest book; The Starngest of Places. Come see how a dream about an old friend and a stick of butter changed his entire life. https://amzn.to/3Bpuvq0 

Today Jonah reads another chapter from his new book; The Strangest of Places. An entire episode dedicated to the Mix Tape. How it has evolved and the role it plays during the course of a life. Pick a song and jump on in! Order 'The Strangest of Places' on Amazon: amazon.com/Strangest-Places-Jonah-Berger/dp/B08X65NLGR/

Today we sit down with Joel Van Egbert, or Jonah 2.0! He is a brother from another mother, a camp director, and a spirit not to be missed. He has affected many kids lives and when he lost one of them to suicide, he decided to do something about it. He started Camp JoJo. Come and see how this amazing man is changing the world, one heart at a time. https://www.campjojo.me/

Today we take a break from the interview and I read a chapter from my new book, The Strangest of Places. We read the chapter titled, Josh all about my friend who we lost too soon and who ended up helping me to find so many gifts with his life and even his death. If you have ever lost someone special to you, sit a spell and have a listen. https://www.amazon.com/Strangest-Places-Jonah-Berger/dp/B08X65NLGR/

This is the one and only Jamie Melser Greenberg. Old friend and make-up artist to the stars turned make up guru. She has taken her path from small interest to great success and talks to us about the journey. About working with the stars. And about the act of grounding your feet in the real when you work amidst the surreal. For more about Jamie: jamiemakeup.com

Today we sit and take a journey with my old and dear friend Tami who with her husband embarked on a journey of a decade and a half to have a child. Failure after disappointing failure until they ended up with a miracle. This is for anyone who has ever had a child, wanted to have a child, or dreams of having a child. www.mother.ly/lifestyle/7-charities-helping-moms 

Sometimes if you are lucky, you find friends that become tighter than relatives. Meet just those ladies. Laura, Peggy, and Kathi have been friends for decades. Raised sons into men all with Down Syndrome, been together through the loss of spouses and the loss of one of their sons. All of the challenges and changes have only brought these friends closer together and today, we spend an hour getting to know them and absorbing the power of friendship. www.rmdsa.org

Today we meet my amazing friend Erin Weierbach. CMT Patient, champion of disabled youth and mother to a son with CMT. We talk about the choice to have kids, the news that her son has CMT and how that affects decisions for additional kids. Her attitude and devotion to her family and career are infectious and wonderful. www.pealcenter.org

Meet Manolo Cervantes. A Business owner, cheese maker, proud Mexican, and youth leader. This unique spirit tells it like it is and makes you smile in the meantime. He was also involved in a terrible bus accident with a group of youth from his church. Come along as he takes us through this profound experience, how he managed the moment, the recovery, and the community that was affected. This is a wonderful man with a story to tell. www.easterseals.com

What a thrill it was for me as a Camp Director and lifelong camp participant to sit down with Tom Rosenberg. President and CEO of the American Camp Association. We talk about growing up in camp, the benefits of the camp experience, and the affect that Covid has had on the camp industry. He is a charming man who has devoted his career and heart to making kids smile. In another installation of our Pandemic Positives series, we get a taste of how even covid is no match for the power of camp. And that the idustry is using creativity and connectivity to brave the storm. https://www.acacamps.org/donate

Today we sit down with Stephen Wooden. County Commissioner and all around good soul. We talk about his path to politics and how to navigate life in public service. We also see how the intensity and animosity of national politics can affect a young and local politician on his path. This a chance to be reinspired about politics as we listen to a man who is in it for the good of others. (Recorded in January 2021) www.familypromisegr.org/how-you-can-help/donate/

Last week we met Susan Mooney and this week we meet her son, and my good friend, Ross. Ross is 27, has an acquired brain injury, and is one of the most unique souls I have come across. He tells it like it is and he is not bound by facts to spin his tales. Don't miss this chance to walk in the shoes of an unusual man with unusual thoughts and a world to teach us all without even trying. www.talltalesranch.org

Today y'all, we meet my dear old friend and self-made path paver, Susan Mooney. Susan and her husband Pat are parents to Ross who is a young adult with a disability. In order to meet his adult needs for community and support, they are creating a Ranch that will truly help to break down the walls between the disability community and the general public. These are people who weren't finding what they needed for him and so they decided to create it themselves. Don't miss this amazing story of being the change you wish to see in the world. www.talltalesranch.org

Last week we talked with Karel Horney, time to meet her son and my old friend Adam Horney! He is an amazing man who loves country music, law enforcement, and the Lord. His authenticity and boundless heart will leave you charmed and inspired. Come sit in on this discussion of what matters most with an expert in the field! www.arcthrift.com

Today we sit down with my old friend, and long ago boss, and author, and rockstar Karel Horney. She has battled eating disorders, despression, and alcoholism for most of her life, and in the process she started and grew one of the best non-profits serving children and families with disabilities. She has been to hell and back again a few times and is here to tell of the journey. A difficult journey that ends with grace and beauty. www.adamscamp.org https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Walk-six-year-old-struggles-alcoholism/dp/1977233848

Today we meet Ricky Taylor, Type 1 diabetic, 4th Degree Blackbelt Sensei and amazing human spirit. We talk about how diabetes affects your day to day life and how losing his vision in one eye only increased his determination towards sucess. The more you hear from this man, the more you want to hear. Don't miss this chance to learn about the Shivalrous Knight from Boogie Down Brooklyn. Email: senseiricky8@gmail.com IG: @knightscode_fitness

Today, we meet Jonah's Aunt Tina and go for the long journey from marriage to a cantor, to divorce, to losing a child, to loving another woman, to cancer, and back again. The wisdom and honesty of this amazing woman will inspire all who come to listen. It is amazing what we can survive and also the wingspan we form to fly out of the ashes. You do not want to miss this amazing conversation.

Today my old and dear friends Dave & Jeremy join us on the show for a long and interesting chat. We cover everything from favorite drinks to the scientific view of the pandemic to race and faith relations to the joys and trials of being gay in our culture to the benefits of copius parmasean on your speghetti. These two guys are walking talking examples of the greatness of difference. Don't miss this charming duo and the pursuit of truth! www.twocc.us www.thetrevorproject.org 

Today we continue our series Pandemic Positives, focusing on those most affected by the pandemic and what they are doing to remain hopeful and focused through it all. We spend the hour with two of my oldest friends Lisa & Courtney, both teachers and both amazing women! Hear from the front lines about the challenge and determination that can be found in most teachers these days. You're getting an unfiltered view into why we should be looking at our teachers with extra love! https://www.adoptaclassroom.org/

Today, my old friend and rapper DaMarceo Thomas joins me on the show to talk about camp life, hip-hop, race, and friendship. This is a true heart you don't find everyday and will leave you feeling the inspiration of living with intention. We also get into old-school -vs- new school rap. Yung Pros on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/RuthlessHDTV

Today we continue our Pandemic Positives series as we meet Erica Berger-Brandt. Amazing therapist, Authentic Soul, and my very own sister. We tlk about our childhood, her path as a therapist, and how Covid has affected the therapy industry. Get this front line perspective on how a therapy professional maintains the mental balance of their clients while striving to maintain their own. You will finish this episode inspired by the work she is doing and by the grounded perspective she lends to this pandemic. Don't miss my amazing sis! https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists

This is an episode not to miss. Today we welcome Maria Maisonet. Former student of the University of New Haven. She chose to leave the school after a series of experiences with inaccessibility. She fought the good fight and learned amazing lessons all the way. This is a gem of a human being with a wisdom level that is off the charts! https://chargerbulletin.com/accessibility-issues-prompt-student-with-wheelchair-to-leave-university/

Today we sit a spell with my old friend, Phil Ord. Brilliant mind, Dry Wit, Champion of Nuclear Energy, and possesor of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. We talk about the pros and cons of Nuclear Energy. We talk about life with Muscular Dystrophy. We talk about dating and we dream of what Phil would accomplish if he were the President. Don't miss this rare opportunity to hear from an unusual mind and a genuine smart ass. www.friendsofnuclearenergy.org

In the first episode of our ongoing series Pandemic Positives, we meet Virgil Dickerson. Record Label Exec, Marketing Guru, and self-made Kim-Chi Tycoon. This unbelieveable tornado of a human being just never stops. And when he lost both of his jobs due to the pandemic, he took it as a sign that he was meant to move forward, not be left behind. His story will inspire you and leave you smiling at what human beings can do to be at their best during the hardest of times. www.KreamKimChi.com

Think you have a lot to deal with. Come listen to my old friend Kelly’s lion’s share of challenges and be ready to learn. This woman is not only impressive because of the number of gargantuan trials she has been through, no, it is more so about how she has managed to create a life of joy and inspiration from it. She was dealt heavy cards and not only played them for her own benefit, she went to work changing the game for others who were in a similar boat. Do not miss this episode. Pour yourself a glass of old whiskey, grab a slice of peach pie and experience the Stahlman Family Zoo. https://www.amazon.com/Power-Now-Guide-Spiritual-Enlightenment/dp/1577314808

This episode is a real treat as we sit down with Bernadette Scarduzio, Social Media Coordinator for the Hereditary Neuropathy Foundation. In addition to her title, resident badass is perfectly fitting as well. She has a remarkable story to tell and an infectious outlook on how to make true challenges your friends. The conversation takes you through a life lived head on and leaves you with inspired lessons on facing your own journey. www.hnf-cure.org "Bernadette" (Documentary): https://www.amazon.com/Bernadette-John-Scarduzio/dp/B00F91FMLW

It is time to ring in the new year and there is no better partner-in-crime than my best friend and producer of He Walks Like a Cowboy, Marc Ronick. Brothers for 33 years and counting, we talk of our history, the art of following your gut, and the good, bad and otherwise of the old and new year. Come celebrate life, friendship, and these uncertain times through the eyes of two old besties. For more about Marc's podcasting company: ironickmedia.com Check out Marc's podcast: marcandlowell.com

Today, on Christmas eve, Jonah takes a solo walk through his history as a Jewish kid in a Christian society. Walk with him as he spends Christmas with a friend's family, the day he almost bought a christmas tree, and his past romantic relationships with Christian women. Jonah ties the holidays together by discussing his and Megan's path to unity and process with their daughter. Tis the season to walk like a cowboy y'all!

I have a friend. He’s funny and charming. He is a brilliant mind. In fact he is one of the world’s leading researchers for my disability. And I can’t wait to introduce you to Dr. Mike Shy. Come learn all there is to know about CMT and what it is like on the forefront of curing a disease. www.cmtausa.org/donate