Pondering Monkeys Podcast

Let's have some fun with Episode 49. Scanning the news across the globe,Blair and Carden find some hilarious stories that are just asking to be told. Parrots that swear, houseflys that blow up houses, or hippos that are people, these are true stories ripped from the headlines. For some laughs and a little bit of useless information, join the guys for this weeks episode.

Episode 48 welcomes back Carden from his hiatus. Then, the guys jump right into the Metaverse...well, not literally. If you are still not sure what the Metaverse is, then you are in the right place. The guys break it down in excruciating detail, and discuss the future as Mark Zuckerberg sees it. Whether or not it appeals to you is another question, but there is no doubt, the Metaverse is in our future. The guys weigh in on the good, bad and in-between on this immersive , digital world. So join us in our ponderverse and have a listen. 

Did you ever wonder why it seems like the only news is bad news? That we are surrounded by negative influences in our daily lives each and every day? Well, the fact is, we are. We are subjected daily to media machines that are tuned to feed us mostly the bad news, because frankly, good news doesn't pay. Episode 47 takes a look at why this is, and the answers may surprise you. It isn't just about making money, it's about giving us what we want. So tune in as Blair discusses what we're up against and learn how to tune out and try and bring more positivity into your life.

    Episode 46 is all about facing the rampant inflation that is gripping the world. How do you keep your money safe and how do you make it grow?  Blair discusses options to keep your money from depreciating in a savings account. Crypto Currency could be the new lifeline for people to invest in and grow their money. Blair compares traditional inflation hedges such as real estate and businesses, to the new kid on the block, crypto. Join us for a topic that could change your life.             

What does a three legged deer, a skunk, a one room school house and cigarettes have in common? Well, tune in and find out. Blair takes a trip down memory lane for episode 45. With Carden on a hiatus, Blair goes lone wolf and visits an amazing time of his childhood. Known now as "The Craig Years" he takes us back to a not-so normal period of his life. Now some 40 years later, he reflects on those times and draws comparisons to growing up then vs growing up today. For a peak into life as a Gen-X kid, sit back and take a listen.

Episode 44 is all about being a dad. Blair and his oldest son and guest-host, Kade Patton, talk about Kade's soon-to-be introduction into fatherhood.  Kade's wife Jaimi is due this February with their first child. Blair shares his experiences raising 3 kids, and also shares some of the many lessons learned over the past 29 years. Kade also talks about his apprehension and concerns about being a new dad, and also the excitement it brings as well. A great father/son conversation about the ups and downs of fatherhood, and how life will never be the same. So, be a part of our family for an episode and join the conversation.

The guys welcome back pop-culture sidekick Kade Patton, to delve into all things music. Music plays such a huge part in peoples lives and it is fun to reminisce about the music we loved while growing up. All the guys are musical with Carden playing guitar, Blair playing drums and guitar, and Kade being a drummer himself, so they also talk about being musicians. There are also a couple of surprise clips of music by Carden and Blair, and Kade and Blair. Hold the Grammy and sit back and enjoy this weeks Pondering Monkeys episode.  

Episode 42 is all about harnessing those inner desires to start your own business. John Meese has been helping budding entrepreneurs get their foot in the door for years. He has even written a book on the subject, "Survive And Thrive",  in an effort to help people get started owning their own business. John gives interesting insight into the steps to take to get started, and also offers his view of how best to prepare to insure business success. It is an interesting conversation and John shares some great observations about what he has learned along the way. This is the second episode dedicated to helping people start their own business. There are many satisfying reasons to do so, and many have nothing to do with money. So get your notepad ready, and get ready to learn. To learn more about John's Book, "Survive and Thrive", go to www.surviveandthrivebook.com , or listen to his podcast Thrive School on Apple Podcasts.  

Episode 41 is Blair's chance to talk all about inventing.  Blair has been an inventor most of his life, but finally got serious about it in 1998. Since that time he has invented over a dozen rehabilitation products, numerous other devices, written 3 patents and consulted with numerous other product developers. He worked with teams from the NFL, NBA, NHL, MLBA, and numerous colleges and high schools. He currently still creates new ideas and does product development for other companies. He has also completed construction of his "Mad Lab", which is his creative playground-otherwise known as a shop. Carden grills Blair on his life as an inventor, and how it all evolved. If you have the inventing bug, or want to hear about the ups and downs of being an inventor, this episode is for you. Please join us!

Episode 40 is a Nerd-Out episode. What is that you ask? It is when one of the guys pick a topic and completely nerd-out about it. So, for Pondering Monkey's first nerd-out episode, Carden goes in-depth about running. He loves running and wants to share how he got started and why he encourages anyone that hasn't tried it, to give it a whirl if they are able. He also shares some tips on beginning running programs, and footwear selection.  The guys also have a follow up to last weeks episode with Kristy Sumner about the paranormal. As usual, it is casual conversation at its finest. So, lace up those tennies and join us.  

Episode 39 is unlike any episode they've done before. The guys take a step into the unknown world of paranormal investigations with investigator Kristine Sumner. Kristine is part of a paranormal investigation team called Soul Sisters Paranormal. Kristine shares some incredible stories and experiences she has had in the years she has been researching paranormal activities. Using a scientific approach, Kristine and her team try and find rational explanations for what they encounter...the problem is, sometimes there aren't any. Join us in an incredible conversation about the spirit world and places you may not want to spend the night.   Check out Soulsistersparanormal.com for more information along with videos and audio clips of many of their encounters.  

Episode 38 is all about balance... balance in life that is. Blair and Carden have a serious conversation about the importance and difficulty of finding balance and equilibrium in life. With all that life throws at each one of us, it can be hard to keep a sense of what really matters most. It is a constant challenge to prioritize our lives this way as life is constantly changing itself. This is a conversation about those challenges and things learned along the way. Please join us for a little soul searching, and reflection.

In episode 37 we are joined by international best selling author Robert Raymond Riopel. Robert has dedicated over twenty years of his life to helping people achieve greater success in their lives. Whether it is finding financial freedom, or just improving the overall quality of life, Robert wants to help people help themselves. Roberts book, Success Left A Clue, offers a step by step approach to making positive changes in your lives and finding new success. We are also joined by guest host Annie Olson, who sits in for Carden who was unable to be there. We hope you join us! To find out more about Robert and all the things he does, check out his website at Robertriopel.com

Episode 36 is the third and final episode about housing. Home remodeling is the topic and Blair and Carden discuss many aspects. Carden talks about a major remodel project which transformed his home from blah to awesome, and the impact it had with he and his family. Blair talks about some of the key parts about taking on a remodel project, such as budgeting, prioritizing, and skill assessment for DIYers.  The guys cover a lot of ground and share useful information for anyone who owns a home. So put down the hammer and sit back and enjoy this weeks episode.

In episode 35 the guys continue with the second of a three part series on housing. This week they welcome Drew Sawyers to talk about his recent experience of buying a home. Drew and his wife recently purchased a home outside of Dallas, Texas. The experience has left them both relieved and exhausted. Drew walks us through the process of what it took to successfully "win" a home in todays crazy-competitive market. Their story is hard to believe unless you hear it from the one who lived it. Please be our guest and join us for a great conversation.

Episode 34 is the first in a series of podcasts dedicated to housing. In this episode, the guys discuss new home construction. Blair has been a licensed General Contractor for several years and been involved in residential construction for over 20 years. Whether doing remodels or building from the ground up, Blair has gained years of experience and hopes to share some tips with homeowners and home buyers. Episode 34 deals mainly with new home construction. They discuss things to watch out for when negotiating with contractors, and priorities when building a new home. Whether you are thinking about building a new home, or just interested in the process, join us for a listen.

In episode 33, the guys welcome back our favorite pop-culture sidekick, Kade Patton to discuss tv shows that we grew up watching. In a fun hearted flashback, they talk about the iconic shows in the era of their youth. From the Brady Bunch to Seinfield, these are the shows that defined the times. They also talk about whether the new generations will have such memories, or if phone apps will be the sitcoms of their generation. For a little fun hearted nostalgia, stop in and enjoy the memories.

For episode 32, the guys welcome Chuck Gameon to talk about his 30 years of experience as an educator and administrator in the US school systems. Chuck talks about many aspects of how teaching and education have changed and evolved since the time he started, thirty one years ago. With the advent of social media, and expectations placed upon teachers increasing, things have changed and continue to change every year. Chuck talks about the challenges schools face as budgets are not able to meet demand, and teachers continue to struggle for wage increases. He also explains how educators are expected to do much more than teach, and how many teachers dedicate much of their time to the emotional and physical well being of children.  It is a worthwhile conversation to listen to, and makes us all appreciate what teachers do and the difficult circumstances many of them face. Please Join us.

In episode 31, the guys welcome Josh Horton to the show. Josh is a full time content creator for several social media platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. With over 3 million followers, Josh shares with us how he got started as a content creator. He began as a professional juggler and won numerous titles, performed on national tv on multiple occasions and set over a dozen world records in the process. Six years ago, Josh made the transition to being a full time creator for social media platforms. Hear Josh tell us about his life and the job he loves. A fascinating look into what it really takes to be a social media superstar. Please join us!

In episode 30, the guys welcome Texas Storm Chasers member, Chelsea Burnett. Chelsea has been an active storm chaser and member of The Texas Storm Chasers for many years. She talks about what it is to chase tornados and thunderstorms for the love of it. Chelsea describes some of her fantastic experiences and shares some close calls she has had while pursuing one of natures most powerful and deadly phenomenons. She also gives some good advice on what to do should you ever find yourself in the path of a tornado. Please join us for a great conversation with Chelsea about her thrilling pastime and passion.

In episode 29, Carden and Blair talk about how and why to start your own small business. Blair has been a serial entrepreneur for many years having started 8 different businesses in the last 20 years. He goes through his own method for planning and starting a small business from the ground up. If you have ever thought about starting a side business, you may pick up some interesting tips.Join us.

There is a lot of buzz about episode 28. For good reason, as we have the wonderful Dr. Scarlett Howard PHD with us to tell us all about our friends the honey bees. Dr. Howard is a Post Doctorate Fellow working in the Symonds Lab at Deakin University in Melbourne, Australia. Dr. Howard has been studying the lives of honey bees since 2014 and offers an incredible glimpse into one of natures most fascinating creatures. Did you know bees can count? Neither did we. Join us for a bee-utiful conversation about our little buddy the bee.  

In episode 27, the guys welcome Jesse David Cook M.S. for a great discussion about sleep. Jesse is a Clinical Psychology PHD student at the University of Wisconsin- Madison, and a Sleep Research Society Trainee Member at Large. Jesse has spent years studying many aspects of human sleep and the science around it. He explains why good sleep habits are so important for mental and physical well being, and talks about common issues people have with getting good sleep. This episode is no snoozer, and has a lot of great information for anyone interested in a better nights rest. Please join us.

In episode 26, Jenna Moore returns to have a great discussion on the relationships people have with other people. Whether it is a co-worker, friend, supervisor or spouse, Jenna discusses how to have healthy relationships. She also discusses how to handle toxic relationships and what to watch out for so relationships don't become toxic. A great conversation ensues and Blair and Carden pick up some pointers on how to be nicer to each other. Information applicable to anyone but a hermit, so please join us.

In episode 25, the guys welcome back Kade Patton and for the first time on the show, Sayer Patton. The four of them have a great conversation about the lessons they have learned from the journey through life. Each person shares introspection and takeaways from these lessons. A meaningful conversation that shows we are all very much alike, no matter how much we think we are all unique. 

In episode 24, the guys welcome back Dr. Tony Zadra, also known as The Dream Doctor.  Tony gives a very in depth look at nightmares. From what causes them, to which people are most susceptible to have them, Dr. Zadra offers a fascinating look at a dream occurrence that affects millions. He also explains the difference between night terrors, and nightmares, and offers insight on treatment for both. Another great dream discussion with Dr. Zadra you won't want to miss. Please be our guest and join us.

In episode 23, the guys give a warm welcome to Annie Olson. Annie shares her story of the devastating loss of her older brother Trevor, when he was only 22 years old. She takes us through that time in her life that led to depression, anxiety and having to come to terms with losing someone so close to her. Through therapy, treatment and reshaping her own views on life, she was able to find the joy of living again. Please join us for a conversation that reminds us all of how precious and fragile life really is.

In episode 22, the guys have a fascinating discussion about our universe with Dr. Kelly Cline.  Dr. Cline is a professor of Mathematics, Astronomy, and Astro Physics at Carroll College. Curious about black holes and other mysteries of the universe? Dr. Cline breaks it down in understandable fashion and shares his passion for all things galactic. Dr. Cline also gives his view on UFOs and extraterrestrials. And wait until you hear him do the monkey....very authentic. If space is your thing, sit back and prepare to have your head stuffed full of fascinating facts of this little universe of ours.

In Episode 21, Blair and Carden reflect on and celebrate their first 20 episodes. Talking about the ups and downs of podcasting, and sharing some of their favorite moments, the guys share how much they enjoy doing the show and look forward to the future. So, join us for a fun flashback episode, and hearing about where we go from here. 

This week in episode 20, we welcome an amazing person who shares his even more amazing story of a near death encounter with a Grizzly Bear in Montana. Chase Dellwo shares his story of the Grizzly Bear attack that nearly killed him. This first hand account of what happened that day, and the long road to recovery he has endured is an incredible story especially coming from the man who lived it. If a hair raising true story is what you're after, you my friend are in the right place!

In Episode 19, the guys welcome Lance Patton to share his story, and what a story it is. From adolescent struggles with ADHD and depression, to being shot and almost killed when he was 17. Lance shares his story of being addicted to painkillers and alcohol and living on the streets surviving however he could for many years. He eventually came to terms with and faced his demons trying to salvage as much normalcy in his life as possible. His story is as much a warning as a story of survival. So, join us in hearing Lance tell his tale.....and what a tale it is.

In this episode, the guys welcome Clinical Counselor Jenna Moore. Jenna discusses anxiety disorders and options for people who may be dealing with anxiety or related stress. She also discusses couples therapy and give some very good advice for keeping relationships healthy. Jenna has been a licensed counselor for over 8 years and has owned her own practice for over four years. She also happens to be the wife of fellow monkey, Carden Moore. So, lay down on the couch, relax and enjoy the newest episode of Pondering Monkeys.

In episode 17, the guys follow up last weeks fascinating visit with Pete Howard about UFOs and cattle mutilations, and discuss other topics that blow their minds. From time travel to the Simulation Theory, this conversation covers a lot of ground. Guest Kade Patton also joins in on the discussions. So, if you want to ponder some mind bending topics pull up a lounge chair and an umbrella drink and be our guest.

In Episode 16. the guys welcome Pete Howard to the show to discuss his involvement in the mysterious cattle mutilations and UFO sightings in Montana. Pete was the Teton County sheriff in 1974-1988. It was during that time that cattle mutilations and many UFO sightings were reported in a small town in western Montana. Pete gives his first hand account of his investigations, and ponders after 50 years, why the mystery is still unsolved. We are very grateful to Pete for sharing his incredible stories. If unsolved mysteries intrigue you, then you're in the right spot. Enjoy!

In Episode 15, the guys interview Dr. Antonio Zadra. Dr. Zadra is a sleep scientist who specializes in dreams and sleep disorders. He is a published author of two books, "When Brains Dream" and  "The Dream Keepers".  Dr. Zadra offers incredible insight into what it is to dream, and specifically lucid dreams. Please join us in a fascinating discussion with Dr. Zadra.   Sweet Dreams!

In episode 14, the guys welcome back Kade Patton to discuss everything movies.  Scary movies, funny movies, awful movies...they talk about them all. Carden also adds an interesting tidbit about the recent mission to mars...which of course starts a discussion on, you guessed it, the mission to Mars. Grab some popcorn, relax and join the conversation.

In Episode 13, Carden shares with us the wonderful Kambo Cleanse. Everyone will love to hear about using a toxic tree frog to induce intense vomiting and diarrhea. Next, they have a discussion about the aspects of kids and sports from both a parental and coaching perspective. Relax, sit back and ponder.

In Episode 12, the guys complain about life in -25 degree weather, contemplate life on a deserted island, and get serious with a conversation about having both empathy and hope in our lives. Blair and Carden give some serious thought to how easy it is to lose sight of our blessings, and forget that most people on our planet today struggle on a daily basis. It is a reminder that we all need at times, to be more patient, kind and respectful to others. 

In episode 11, the guys chat about a man who received a face and arm transplant, another recent UFO sighting and delve into the Reddit GameStop trading frenzy that has erupted the past month. Blair spent the last week on the front lines of the Reddit- Wall Street Bets fueled trading mania. He also is losing money on GameStop like millions of others. So, if making poor investments and losing money interests you, you may learn a few things. Join us....

In episode 10, the guys chat about a recent UFO sighting in Charlotte, NC. Also, this is the second part of a two part series on working out and eating better. Carden shares his trials with fad diets and what he eventually found that works. Blair tries to simplify better eating by outlining what he considers is the easiest and most effective way to make eating changes for life.  So, if you're like millions of other people looking to eat a little better and be up to date on UFO sightings, you're in the right place!  

In episode 9, Carden reveals his plan to potty train his 3 year old son. Apparently, it will be really easy and in a show of confidence, he has already thrown out remaining diapers. Good luck with that...  Also in this episode, they finally dedicate a podcast to talk about working out, and the life changing results it can have. Blair has worked as a Strength and Conditioning Specialist, and fitness trainer for over 20 years. He shares some perspective on getting the mindset to commit to working out for life. Carden shares his transformation from being a couch potato to a committed exerciser. This is Part 1 in a 2 part series on Exercising and Eating, so pull on your leg warmers, and let's hit the gym.   

In this episode, the guys share their views on the recent legalization of recreational marijuana in Montana. Blair and Carden open up about their personal experiences with pot, and other recreational drugs. They also discuss Oregons recent radical shift in its drug laws and policies. So, grab a bag of chips and chill out to this totally tubular episode.

The guys welcome their first guest, Kade Patton, to talk about how video games have evolved in their lives from childhood to adulthood. They also make a very convincing case that video games are not a bad thing, and their wives should be glad they don't golf instead. So, dust off your Atari 2600 and join in.

In episode 6, the guys give thanks to their listeners. Pondering Monkeys now has listeners in several countries. A huge thank you to all listeners who have happened to find our podcast. We hope you continue to listen as Pondering Monkey grows. Carden then talks about introducing technology to his children, and whether or not it is a good idea. They have a quick Christmas rundown, and Carden discusses getting the COVID 19 vaccine. Finally, Blair and Carden say goodbye to the year 2020 and discuss what a year it truly was.  

In this episode, Blair and Carden chat about the challenge that is maintaining a workout and eating program over the holidays. Then, they ponder on the topic of social influencers, and debate whether or not influencing is an actual career path. 

Well, this episode covers quite an array of subject matter. Blair and Carden create the Beard Authority. This will become the ultimate authority for who is allowed to grow beards, and who will be forever banned. Then, they address the hot topic of cattle mutilations coupled with the ever popular discussion of aliens and UFOs. Put on your tin-foil hat and enjoy.

Once again, Blair and Carden cover a range of topics, some intended, some spontaneous. In this episode they discuss the challenges of eating right, and the huge issue of college debt. Carden speaks from experience as his college debt crisis shaped his whole life path to where it is today. 

In this weeks episode, Blair and Carden look back at their high school experience. Discussing the good and bad points of high school then, and also the impact of social media on high school today. 

This is the maiden voyage into the vast podcast world. Blair Patton and Carden Moore launch their first episode of Pondering Monkeys Podcast. This episode is really more of an introduction of the two hosts, so people will know a little more about them. They discuss their own lives and what prompted them to start a podcast.