Relative Roads

An open and honest conversation with two young and healthy 20 something year old men. Kristoff is my stepson and currently a semi-permanant fixture in the household. Taking some time away from the university life and experiencing a fulltime job with crazy schedules. Jake- one of Kristoff's best friends, is also living out the blue collar lifestyle. Taking it on the chin like the rest of us, when life dishes it out. We discuss what life is like in the current world of fast technology, social media, political controversy, and fading traditions. How faith has been a pivotal piece for each of us in our survival of mental health challenges. Jake and Kristoff (the 20 somethings) grew up together and both found refuge in the sport of baseball throughout their high school career. Which obviously was't that long ago. Although humor seems to be the initial hardware used in navigating such vulnerability, it isn't long before each of us begin to expose our deepest programming. From surviving our childhood to understanding the scope of fatherhood as we have experienced it. This discussion dives deep into our own personal experiences. Ultimately, it is an ivitation to all men to welcome their own vulnerability into the conversation and fearlessly lift one another up.

Retired Sheriff's deputy Matt Skidgel, has had many humbling experiences protecting communities in the bay area. Peacefully enjoying his retirement, these days Matt has been crafting a life with just as much color but armed with paint brushes and digital cameras. For the last few years, Matt has utilized his creativity to keep himself occupied and mentally sound as he is reminicent of the hardships in police work. We talk about his methodologies in his artistic expression and how he goes about selling and sharing his work. Matt is admittedly, an non-religious God believer and at some point in this interview we discuss how Faith, as he understands it, translates to his everyday life. The biggest common factor in our likeminded approach to faith just might be our appreciation for all the beauty in God's creation. Matt's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattskidgel?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==  

Recently, as I scroll through TikTok I come across a rapper's profile that caught my attention. His name is Robert AKA "Castor Pollux". A true lyricist to the fullest degree. As someone who aspires to own the experience of performing a hip hop song on stage at somepoint, I am thoroughly intrigued. His appearance as a performer not exactly reflecting your standard Hip Hop representative, led me to believe he may have something to offer with his vocalized talent. HE DOES NOT DISAPPOINT. Specifically, I'm fed videos of him behind a desk in a office cubicle. Wearing a cheesy polo apparently, lipsyincing to his own recorded songs. His chin draped in this ZZ top like beard narrowly avoiding a dip in his cup of Joe. I love the contrasting nature of his style. Reminiscent of a popular Hip Hop duo in the 90's titled "The High and Mighty", the sound of his unique voice and catchy cadence hypnotize the little chubby Hip Hop fan that resides within. Naturally, we hit it off as we journey into the past where it is revealed that our substitution for lack of a digital landscape fulfilling our need for adventure becomes the streets and it's inhabitants surrounding our broken family homes. A sacrifice of safety for a taste of the poetic yet dangerous side of reality. What better way than to transform the trauma into poetry. Spotify TikTok YouTube

The hot topic of ridding TikTok in the U.S. A discussion of how relavant the controversial platform really is in our personal lives. We will soon be transitioning to a seperate show for this format of the podcast between myself and Ricardo. Relative Roads will still exist and continue produce interesting content on a more intimate level with select guests. Stay tuned for details!

It is becoming a regular activity to sit in a vehicle and discuss world topics/ issues with my fellow road warrior, Ricardo. So, we might as well make a whole new podcast out of it! Stay tuned for all possibities! In this particular conversation, some of the topics discussed are: Raising children to be good people Warner Bro's filming in Sacramento Anti religious social media posts Religion and how it relates to parenting Homelessness Politics and our limited trust and understanding Leonardo DiCaprio sitting on Ricky's lap Please note, the opinions shared in this podcast are for the purpose of comic relief between two good friends. Promoting our own spiritual and mental health. It is NOT our intention to offend any particular person or people. Our goal is to share the laughter with hopes of providing audible entertainment to those willing to listen. Thanks for all your support! 

Myself, a fellow mixer driver/ YouTuber (Ricardo Flores), and an ex-Sheriff's deputy/ Artist (Matt Skidgel) discuss many controversies riddling society today. From childhood to child rearing as well as politics, war, and mass shootings. These opinions are based in the experiences of men sharing the roads with the community members they are desperately trying to understand and love.  You can find content created by these men listed here: Matt Skidgel's Instagram: @mattskidgel Ricardo's YouTube (Mixer Mafia): https://youtube.com/@Mixermafia23?si=dy_onGtMm4c0k7Zt

Eric had an accident at the workplace that almost took his life. Nearly ripping his foot into shreds, he survives the catastrophic event only to withstand the aftermath of jobloss, divorce, and a mental breakdown. He has taken every humbling and painful step to rebuild his life and his relationships. An admirable man in the midst of a long journey of healing. 

Local Musician Ray Sansom, helps me to understand his artistry as a self taught guitar player and singer, song writer. When faced with a life and death moment, Ray reaches deep within to discover that his love for music and desire to share his creations helped save his life. You can find Ray's work on youtube. Please stay tuned after the podcast conversation for the full song "Trannysouras Rex"   https://www.youtube.com/@grizzlywhiskers2952

A conversation with a fellow photographer about our love for capturing images. Matt is a multitalented artist. Music being his first priority, he merely loves connecting to nature thru his lens. You can follow him @mattskidgel on IG. Matt's Instagram

John Morris Ross is a professional comedian that has been working in the industry for over 18 years. Recently, he has experienced a personal revelation. He has discovered an inner voice that requires his direct attention. His inner child. He has put a pause on his standup career to allow this spiritual awakening to take the stage. He recently posted a video on his social media sharing this profound experience with his many followers, including myself. It hit me right in the soft spot. I am certainly an advocate for self awareness in the community. John, is an example of an artist painting a picture through a self-healing story.

An interview with an ex-law enforcement officer about life, death, self-awareness, and the beauty of a positive prospective. Matt Skidgel has had a few life experiences riding dangerously close to a self destructive end. He is an amazingly talented artist that can express his creative vision across many platforms. This open and honest conversation is exactly what you would wish for from any representative of the law or, even a member of the community. I deeply appreciate the opportunity to connect to such a beautiful soul. Please check out Matt's instagram page: @MattSkidgel Upcoming musical performance at "The Waterman Brewery" in Elk Grove 5/6/22 6:30 - 9:30pm

Please enjoy this talk between myself and another artist. And for God's sake, PAINT SOMETHING!   Thanks so much for listening!!! Please checkout Henry's work on instagram @aemeka89 

Mike and Reg grab a couple instruments, play some hip hop instrumentals, and let the magic unfold! Please enjoy this feel good episode that will put a smile on your face! Thanks for listening!

Within 6 years of hard work, laser focus, and a strong belief of self discovery, Felipe has earned himself a career on the fast track! Please check out his amazing work on his social media sites: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shadowclonefilms/ Instagram: @shadowclonefilms 

Tara Harbert is a Spiritual Healer and Life Coach based in the greater Sacramento area. Her amazing resources can viewed and accessed at: www.TheTenderHeartedHealer.com   IG: @the_tender_hearted_healer We have an enlightening conversation about the difficult challenges exiting relationships that no longer serve your deeper purpose. If you find yourself in search of inner strength and the encouragement to grow, this episode will reaffirm, YOU ARE ON THE RIGHT ROAD. If you like the episode, please check out the other amazing connections and their beautiful recordings on this show! Be Well, Be Safe, Be World Peace.

In this  lengthy episode: Mike and Reg sit and talk to Josh in his garage about, well...everything. Listen in as we get into one of those rambling conversations people used to have in Friends' living rooms during house parties and gatherings before Covid dropped the hammer on us!

Join us for another End-of-the-year podcast; We talk to Jonathan Flom about having started a new career in communications right before the Lockdown earlier this year, then we get Mikes take on having had the Coronavirus!

Join Mike and Reg for about an hour of thought provoking (at times hilarious) Improv! 

In this episode of Relative Roads, we get to know Luis, and introduce him to the wacky world of Improv

Mike and Reg have a discussion on the eve of the 2020 U.S. Election

A continuation of the conversation.

My dad was always the quiet and reserved type growing up. A man of very few words. He only had to look at me a certain way to correct my behavior as a kid. But these days, we can enthusiastically go on forever about our retrospective selves just to learn more about one another. He has chosen a career that involves research and study of "Neuro Linguistics". So, basically, he's a human processor with a unique ability to reprogram his own algorithms. The man is a highly disciplined and avid reader with an undying thirst for deeper knowledge of the human mind. He certainly sparked my interest in human psychology and introspective thinking. Perhaps he will provoke yours!

Everybody's journey has it's differences but, some of the roads are commonly paved with the some cumbersome undulations (speed bumps). Chad's story is an inspiring tale of overcoming the odds and growing with deep purpose and a desire to reach many. After his brother passed, Chad had a very challenging time to get thru. Soon enough, things got even harder with a heart attack to recover from. I am proud to be connected to such a resilient and positive life force. Los Angeles is a very lucky city! Keep fighting the good fight Chad! Thanks for the deep conversation!

Mark Neuhauser is a longtime veteran of the late night crowd in Sacramento. He has been working along side some of Sacramento's finest bar and restaurant owners for several years. Mark has ties to over 60 different dining establishments in greater Sacramento area. That's a lot of names to remember!  Mark isn't just an amazing brand ambassador and company man. He's also a father of 2 beautiful healthy little girls and the proud husband of his entrepreneurial wife. Who is the partial business owner of a local bottle shop in the downtown area. You can swing by and offer your business as you stroll by the Capital. Stop in and visit "The Good Bottle"! They are located on 11th and L street.   This episode is about Mark and his personal experience through the COVID-19 fiasco both at home and at work. Thank you so much to Mark and "The Good Bottle Shop Family" for allowing me to soak up your amazingly positive vibes! Much Love!!

I have been living with knee and back pain most of my adult life. Much of my fitness knowledge comes from books and the internet. With a focus issue and a tendency to cheat hard work, my workout routines notably have some critical holes of information. I have recently challenged myself to take a deeper look at the pain. As it turns out, I have a friend who specializes in helping with that very thing. Zaki Azizi has come a long way on his journey to Wellness coach. With over 7 years of dedicated work and focus, Zaki lives with a deep purpose to help his fellow wo/man. From a fundamental background in Physical Therapy, he has a very practical approach to fitness training, and a leadership quality that sets the bar high. No, he doesn't drill sergeant his clients, he speaks the truth and elevates your desire to win. Simply, by doing the work that he teaches.  This, is more than a podcast episode. This, is the beginning of an amazing opportunity. This, is another step in the right direction. [Super dramatic musical note] Find Zaki: @zakifit FB: Zaki Fitness http://zakifitness.trainerize.com

As a parent, I have made it a point to be open and as blatantly honest with my kid about most things in life. Like, scary movies for instance... early in his life, I had explained to my like-minded child, that the images in the scenes we were watching, are a performance for entertainment. I would explain the process of making and using fake blood, the sound effects used for monster noises, and pretty much any other special effect I could find the words to break down to a 4 year old. An introduction stage if you will, attempting to explain the process of creating art. To this day, he has yet to watch a movie that spooks him beyond his emotional capacity. It has been a controversial method, as I have come to experience. Perhaps, I may be a little too loose lipped when explaining worldly things to my young son however, with the information accessibility our youth are privy to today, I hardly see the sense in hiding any "taboo" subjects. Let's face it, the more someone tries to keep things from us, especially, when we will eventually have unsupervised access, the more we must know and we will find. I figure, my son would be better off having some understanding of the pros and cons of having inappropriate material inside his mind. In other words... I unabashedly, explain the consequences of pre-mature data intake in as many ways as possible. At least, with my perceived understanding of such things... Kids are smart. Many times, much smarter than we think. They also value being addressed as an intellectual in conversations with adults. I believe a highly effective way of capturing such a young hyperactive mind is to speak candidly. Telling them the absolute truth. Life can get dark. Information is light. And, you should never stare directly into the sun. Learn to protect yourself from things no one should see. At least, that's my version of it. Thanks for listening!

A sit down session with someone in the controversial uniform. It was a great opportunity to ask some questions about prospective and the mental health management of a police officer.  The discussion includes the George Floyd incident and "Black Lives Matter" from a black police officer's prospective. This conversation is not published to persuade you politically. It's more like a great chat with a thoughtful guy. Be well friends!

Avery Matthew is a highly talented entrepreneurial artist. His portfolio reveals something so intimate about the human spirit and Avery's eye for vulnerability. We go in depth through his artistic process to learn about what sort of a personal history may breed a man of such vision. Avery is much more than a brilliant artist, he's also a father, a wind technician, and the 2nd half of another visionary, his also extremely talented partner Jenny. She will hopefully soon be featured on the podcast. His career as a wind technician could be an episode all on it's own and we get some great insight to this unique social identity. Speaking of "unique", you should check out his IG and scoop up what he's puttin down! https://instagram.com/uuneek?igshid=sd9ruy0qbt4w The conversation is about nearly everything under the sun. We connect on many topics from psychedelics and mental health to religion and parenting. So much covered in just 3 hours. Please enjoy the sound of humans inspired thru connection. Avery, thank you so much for welcoming me into your heart and your beautiful home!

Just some stuff that is currently on my mind. I realize there may be some virtue signaling going on but, this is mostly a recording to coach myself in the direction I want to go. Just thought I would share my efforts. Happy Month of March everybody!

This episode features a clip from an interview with my son after a float session at Capitol Floats. After that, it's some laughs and silliness with my old friend Reggie. His partner Amanda is Veterinarian doctor who also has ADHD. She provides some great insight to life after the label. We talk about medication as a child and the benefits of chemical intervention. This is a recent rabbit hole of my life to the likes of which will educate my recently diagnosed 10 year old and my self. This was an impromptu conversation that proved yet again, there are some amazing people out there that are ready to share the roads they've traveled. Thank you Reg and Amanda for being in my life!

The Owner of Capitol Floats in Sacramento Ryan Duey joins the podcast to share his amazing story. Three men who share there personal experiences in deep meditation. Big thanks to Mark and Ryan for the inspiration!

I've known Amran for a number of years and I've got a number of questions about his Pakistani background.

Traveled to Luis' current property in Oakland California. It was the 1st time we hung out since we met. All other interactions have been on the job. Most definitely more to come with this ambitious man and I'm looking forward to it! Please enjoy this introductory meeting with Luis!

IMDB BIO: Jason is an actor, filmmaker, singer, voiceover artist, and print model who has worked in film, television, new media, radio, and theater. Jason appeared on the hit CBS show Hawaii Five-0 opposite Alex O' Loughlin and Daniel Dae Kim. In the film 1440 and Counting, Jason played the role of Police Officer Gabe sharing scenes with Loretta Divine. Jason has also played various comedy roles in numerous episodes of the hit web series, Smosh, with Ian Hecox and Anthony Padilla. Jason has been seen in several commercials, print ads, and new media for clients in the following industries: Athletics/Sports, Banking/Finance, Information Technology, and Travel/Leisure to name a few. Other work includes voice-overs for major ad campaigns and products, as well as past appearances on stage including musicals produced by California Musical Theatre's Music Circus. Jason began telling his own stories in 2008 when he wrote and starred in his first short film, Bite Me, a romantic comedy about a speed-dating vampire. Bite Me screened at The 9th Annual San Diego Asian Film Festival 2008, The 1st Annual Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival 2008, and The 25th Annual Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival 2009. He followed this by creating, writing, and starring in three webisodes of sci-fi action comedy, AREA 49 inspired by The X-files and buddy-cop movies. His second short film, Office Romance, premiered at the Wizard World Film Festival Sacramento Comic Con 2014, won the award for Best Comedy Winter Quarter 2014 from Asians On Film, screened at the Sacramento Film & Music Festival 2014, competed online at Short of the Month and Film Festival Flix, and screened at the 2015 Dragon Con Independent Short Film Festival. His third short film, The Rescue, premiered at Wizard World Sacramento Comic Con CON Film Festival 2015. Jason is a 1st Degree Black Belt in Mapag Tapat Shi, a blended system of martial arts that includes American Kenpo, Jeet Kune Do (JKD), Kali/Escrima, and F.I.G.H.T (Israeli Combatives). He enjoys staying fit with resistance training, jumping rope, and rounds of bag work. Jason continues to create his own projects while looking forward to appearing on the next hit series or in a feature film.

It's been a hot minute since my last confession... A lot has happened friends. Join me in tapping in. Just a brief update on where I'm at in life and a few things that have evolved in my thinking.

Marcus Graziano A UC Davis economics and international relations graduate, Marcus comes from a long history of wine. His grandparents migrated from Northern Italy, bringing their grape-growing knowledge to Northern California; his parents continued that tradition in their own vineyards.  It was only natural for Marcus to do what he does…he knows wine from "the ground up." While in school, Marcus interned with California Manufacturers Association, a lobbying firm in Sacramento. Recognizing that he could assist his new colleagues in the capital with his wine industry knowledge, Marcus realized the need for Capitol Cellars. Marcus opened his first store downtown Sacramento in 1985 and began providing wines to many of his legislative contacts both in Sacramento and Washington D.C.  The following year Marcus was commuting to Washington D.C. every month developing business in the nation’s capital and he soon became the wine consultant to the U.S. Senate, working with Secretary of the Senate, Joe Stewart. Through that contact, Marcus developed business with many organizations in the telecommunications and entertainment industries, including working with Motion Pictures President Jack Valenti.  Marcus moved to Gold River in 1998, West Roseville in 2003 and opened the current location in Granite Bay in 2013. The Roseville store has been recognized by the wine industry as one of the premiere wine retail stores and wine bars in the country for its excellence in design, atmosphere, and collection of sought-after wines. Marcus has been fortunate to work with a diverse and well-known roster of clients, from NBA stars (Mark Eaton, Scot Pollard, Karl Malone, Carmelo Anthony) to entertainment industry executives (Motion Picture Association, Fox Broadcasting, Turner Broadcasting, DreamWorks) to the government (U.S. Senate, White House, U.S. Diplomatic Department, U.S. Department of Navy, California State Legislature, California Governor Schwarzenegger). His relationships within the wine industry have allowed him to put some of California’s most exclusive wines into the hands of his customers. A long-time supporter of the Napa Valley Vintners, Marcus has historically been one of the top bidders at the Premiere Napa Valley auction and is pleased have many close friends within the California wine industry. Marcus is passionate about this industry and the service he provides for his clients. He loves wine and he loves people! He feels strongly about finding wines to suit every individual’s unique palate, and enjoys taking the time to get to know his customers and educate them on any aspect of wine they find intriguing – whether it’s storage, pairing, cellaring, or finding the every day “school night” wines to complement the special occasion bottles.  

Corinne is a renaissance woman of sorts. From a young life of classically trained singer to actor to full time mother. Her path has presented it's own set of challenges. We dive into the specifics of what challenges she faces in the entertainment industry. The relevance of race and politics are almost unavoidable in many conversations, let alone a podcast. This is a journey of connection and relatability. Please enjoy the conversation I have with a highly intellectual and ambitious role model such as Corinne Meadors!

It was a great pleasure getting to know these lovely new friends of mine. As we dig into each other's prospective views on many things in the world, I learn that interviewing multiple people is an art to be respected. Topics ranging from child rearing, family histories, political climate, Trump, personal skill sets, and much much more! Thank you Chris and Kirstie! Miss ya already!

A conversation about many things... ranging from Social Media drama and the effects of online betrayal to political prospective, the mainstream media, law enforcement, thoughts on Trump, and many more relevant topics. Max Rude is the online persona of this night owl, not his real name. Equipped to view the world with a vast education in computer technology, Max has experienced a very real emotional roller coaster amidst his webbed adventures. Suffice to say, that many of his relationships are maintained in the digital world. I found this particular interview to be one of the most educating and personally controversial I had conducted. With Max's fairly rigid outlook on the world, my annoyingly optimistic disposition proves to be quite a hurdle. All in all, I am honored that Max was willing to share all that he did with me and I wish him the best in everything that he does!

Wade and I had been coworkers in a previous employment experience. We were usually back from our delivery routes around the same time and we would share stories in the parking lot. After getting to know him, I realized that there are certain people who, ALSO like people. I thought, why not talk about it in a podcast! Wade was a partial inspiration for getting this thing going. Thanks so much for the good energy Wade! Scott was a bonus that day. So thankful to have met you!

A brief interview with my son Declyn. As the school year begins, we discuss future projections of success. The kid is a clown and a social butterfly. This was recorded about 3 months ago.

Reggie is a long time friend of mine who has a heart of gold. He had recently returned to Sacramento from a brief living experience in Los Angeles California. He had moved there with the intentions of becoming a full time working actor. As you might assume, it was a challenging journey for Reg and his girlfriend. We touch on a lot of topical issues including but not limited to addiction, sexuality, relationships, climate change, spirituality, childhood etc. The main idea about the next few episodes I would like you to have in mind while listening, is the transformation in your host (me) and my effort to clean up my attempts to express an idea. As always, thanks so much for listening!

I ask Keith about his zodiac which leads us to other personal philosophies about life. Keith talks about his experience in the army and his take on politics. As this journey continues, I learn so much about what is actually floating around in my own mind as "real". I would consider this episode a true connection to a life long friend that offered so much opportunity for growth. Thanks Keith for the friendship!

Keith has been a friend of mine for a long time. Oddly, we have never really talked about our personal origins in lengthy conversation. Even after all this time, there is still so much to learn about my brother from another mother. Keith has experienced so many things that would last 2 life times! This Episode is the 1st of a 3 part collection. We talked for over 4 hours and I certainly don't expect you to sit thru a 4 hour podcast. The 1st part is mainly about our military brat origins as well as dabbling in some popular mainstream topics such as; black history in Keith's birthplace of Arkansas, the "me too" movement, becoming a firefighter, politics of law enforcement, fatherhood, black reparations, Black lives matter, and a little bit about transitioning back to civilian status post military. Please stay tuned for part 2 and the bonus episode of Keith's military experience as an U.S. Army Veteran. 

Life in this ocean of possibilities is a struggle and you have to have a tough shell to make it big. Ashley sure makes it look easy! She has worked her way into the community of mermaid performers by having a natural way with children and performance art. She has even started her own company making childhood fantasies become a reality. All the while, supporting a husband going through nursing school and raising a "Nemo" of her own. The challenges of life are much easier with a partner who relentlessly supports you but, they can still be challenging. In this episode Ashley openly shares some of the ups and downs of pregnancy and motherhood. Her stories of growth and loving relationships offer some great prospective bringing much needed positivity to the world.  Photo taken by: Stephen Jacobson

Curious about a Nurse's homelife?? How's about a Nurse who also takes care of a toddler in his down time??? I sure as hell am. This episode is with my friend John. Over the last few years, John has acquired the social status' of "Father and Husband." Before that, he was just a guy from the Mid-Atlantic. Not sure what that really means but, it's a thing... I think. We talk about fatherhood and the transition thru pregnancy as a medically educated man... growing up in different cultures and navigating new communities in early adolescence... distracted driving... politics and a few stories about relationships. John, thank you for all your courage!

You ever meet a salesman you wanted to talk to? Well, Nick is that guy. We had work together selling home improvement projects. We went door to door, mostly to encounter really interesting homeowners who were not interested. It was certainly a dead look into the eyes of mental illness in the world. We shared some really sketchy experiences surviving weirdos and it bonded us for life. One lady dressed like a clown and talked just like Bernie Mac. Another, a man's profile shows up on Megan's law during google search  ...as we pull up to the driveway. Fun stuff!

I had some curious questions about the obvious with my new brother-in-law. This seemed to be a natural evolution of male bonding. As Darryl is now a family member, I assume it is somewhat permissible to get straight to the point with personal ideals. Conversationally, this is a wealth of connectivity. In our open discussion, we talk about some fairly heavy world issues. I just so happen to subscribe to the thought formulas he openly confesses.  "How do you feel about use of the "N-word"?" "What is your view on Trump?" "What's the hardest part of your job?" Thank you Darrell for being so brave.    

Josh is a long time friend of mine and a valuable member of the community. His effort in local outreach programs along with his brutal honesty makes him one of the most upstanding men I know personally. However, with one of his most recent Facebook status updates stirring up some commotion, I just had to ask, where is this coming from?? I had my own judgmental reaction to this controversy at first, but left the conversation enlightened of Josh's motives. With a history of homelessness, witnessing police using excessive force at an early age, and an overall tough childhood Josh has overcome adversity and become a respectable member of society. This was an amazing reconnection to an old friend.