The Smoke Break is a mental health podcast for people who don't like talking about mental health. Join hosts and comedians Zane Thomas and Amanda Lynn Deal as well as Malik Rayshon as they interview comics, musicians, and mental health and social workers.
Zane Thomas, Amanda Lynn Deal, Malik Rayshon
On this week's episode of “The Smoke Break”, we were so excited to have a conversation with the extremely talented and dynamic Kingsley. We began by talking about the concept of “Breath-play” (versus “breath-work”) and how something as simple as breathing that we do all the time can be really powerful when we start paying more attention to it. Then we discussed the idea of creation being the opposite of depression—and how we tap into our creativity even when it's hard or we aren't in the mood. We ended by talking about culture shock—living abroad, and moving from a small town to a big city. Episodes drop every Monday on ALL platforms! Thanks for listening.
On this week's episode of “The Smoke Break”, we had a real good time with Iris. We got things going talking about an awfully big topic—love….how we find it, how we accept and reject it, how we offer it to others, and how our approach to it and experience of it have changed as we personally change and grow. Then we moved on to the idea of their being a “Golden Age” in your life—and how we almost always assume that our golden age is in the past, with a little help from our friend nostalgia, which tends to be an awfully beautiful liar—because what if your golden age is right now and you're missing it by pining for the past? And we finished up the episode exploring the idea of visualizing our alter egos as a way to give ourselves the confidence, strength, and wit to get through things where we might not be feeling so strong or may have imposter syndrome….. you know, like most things…. Episodes drop every Monday on ALL platforms! Thanks for listening. Link in comments…
Episode 129: “ ft. Jasmine Nothing and Telltale PresentsOn this week's episode of “The Smoke Break”, we are excited to officially announce our new collaboration with Telltale Presents, a production company running various shows and events over the last nine years. We are proud to welcome to the show our new co-host Jasmine Nothing. We started things off discussing collaboration—how it can be effective or disastrous, and what we've learned from each. We also cover the history of The Smoke Break and Telltale and how we came to start working together. Secondly, we talked about our relationship with the idea of predictability—do we feel like predictable people? Where does our desire for predictability show up in our lives? And we ended the episode talking about self reflection, especially how it can be useful or troublesome, depending on how we're using it… Episodes drop every Monday on ALL platforms! Thanks for listening. Link in comments…
On this week's episode of “The Smoke Break”, we spent the afternoon with the delightful Hannah Schrom. We kicked things off talking about complicated family relationships where things are reversed, like a child caretaking for a grandparent, or having to be the adult to their own parents.Next up we dove into the idea of attachment styles, and all immediately saw which one felt like it hit close to home, whether we liked the answer we discovered or not….And we wrapped up the conversation with talking about our relationship to the idea of pride, and how complicated that can be.Episodes drop every Monday on ALL platforms! Thanks for listening.
On this week's episode of “The Smoke Break”, we really got to know artist, musician, and storyteller Aaron Fairchild. We started out our time together talking about bravery—how each of us have had to be brave through tough things, where we got our bravery from, and how Aaron approaches it in his beautiful middle-grade graphic novel he's finishing up, coming out later this year! (Don't worry, we'll remind you when it comes out so you can buy all buy it.) Next up we finally got around to talking about procrastination… how it's gotten in our way, but more importantly, how we've managed to trick our brains to getting the important things done anyway. Lastly, we ended the day talking about the concept of “never being late to the party”—whether that means starting a new career, picking up a new skill, or changing our mind about something—we all get to things when we get to them, and have to offer some grace to the people who took a little longer. Episodes drop every Monday @ 6pm on ALL platforms! Thanks for listening. Link in comments…
On this week's episode of “The Smoke Break”, we had the honor of hanging out with Portland clown and all around sweetheart Arthur “Lucky” O'Brien. We started by tackling the assumption that using humor to handle tough stuff is an “unhealthy” way of coping, which—get this—it's not. Next up we explored the idea of “fixed mindsets”—how people often view themselves as being inherently good or bad at something, like being funny or not, and how actually….people can change. Lastly, we talked about finding your identity through performance and entertainment—how we came to do things we do, and how much of our identity is wrapped up in it, which can be complicated! Episodes drop every Monday @ 6pm on ALL platforms! Thanks for listening.
On this week's episode of “The Smoke Break”, we had the honor of hanging out with the iconic Portland comic Ally J Ward. We kicked it off by talking about imposter syndrome, which is apparently basically a universal experience, and what we do to try and counteract it. Next up we got into the idea of Self-Preservation as a more realistic version of “self-care” that isn't co-opted by capitalism, and what each of us are focusing on to make sure that we aren't burning out in these very tough times. Lastly, we talked about Humanization. In a world that likes to dehumanize folks all the time, it was awfully nice to think about how to further humanize the people around us. Episodes drop every Monday @ 6pm on ALL platforms! Thanks for listening.
On this week's episode of “The Smoke Break”, we had a great time talking to Georgia GA, an amazing local comedian. We kicked it off by talking about learning styles, how it feels to try and learn new things as adults, and self-education.Then we moved on to discussing starting over—whether it might be a new diagnosis, starting over in a new town, or with a new group of friends—and how to bring positive energy to those changes.Lastly, we talked about the general idea of “the woke agenda” and how the term “woke” has been co-opted and warped to represent something very different from the original intent.Episodes drop every Monday @ 6pm on ALL platforms! Thanks for listening.
On this week's episode of “The Smoke Break”, we finally got to spend time with Khalil, who runs the artist collective Immutable Pdx as well as doing amazing and impactful work with homeless youth. We started out talking about the importance of relaxation and how challenging it is to allow ourselves to check out and take care of ourselves when we're so used to having to grind all the time and be productive to have self worth. Then we moved on to discussing the importance of culturally specific services, and how folks miss out on opportunities when supports aren't put in place that are intentionally meant to make them feel seen, included, and important. We close out the episode by talking about the idea of legacy—what do we want to leave behind, how temporary everything is, and how much control do we have over it in the end. Episodes drop every Monday @ 6pm on ALL platforms! Thanks for listening. Link in comments…
On this week's episode of “The Smoke Break”, we hung out with Portland comedian and librarian Lori Van Deman.We started out with perfectionism, and how we can convince ourselves to try new things even when it's scary. Then we moved on to hopelessness—and most importantly, the ways we've found to pull ourselves out of it, primarily by connecting with others.Lastly, we tackled conflict resolution…. what's worked, what hasn't, and how rupture and repair in a relationship can strengthen it if you're able to get through the tough parts.Episodes drop every Monday @ 6pm on ALL platforms! Thanks for listening. Link in comments…
On this week's episode of “The Smoke Break”, we speak with Portland comedian and storyteller Aleah Liebenau about our experiences with overthinking and how it impacts us. Next we discuss self-perception, how it influences how we interact with others, and if it's possible to have an accurate self-perception. Lastly, we talk about the power of storytelling and how it's such an important part of expressing ourselves, feeling seen, and making people feel a little less alone in their experiences. Episodes drop every Monday @ 6pm on ALL platforms! Link in comments…
Episode 120: “Social Media & Direct Conversations” (ft. Amanda Lyn Deal) On this week's episode of “The Smoke Break”, we speak with returning guest host and comedian Amanda Lynn Deal about the impact of social media on self perception and how unplugging can help us reconnect with ourselves and those around us. Next we discuss the challenges with direct communication as well as some of the skills and perspectives that can make conversations like these a little easier. Lastly, we wrap things up with a discussion about boundaries and the importance of not only voicing them, but maintaining them with people we value. Episodes drop every Monday @ 6pm on ALL platforms!
On this weeks episode of The Smoke Break, we talk to drag queen and social work badass JawBreaker (aka Fabi) about the importance of hobbies and how they can relate to self care.After that we discuss, the difficulty in managing a work life balance and how taking your work home with you can contribute to a faster rate of burnout.Episodes drop every Monday at 6pm on ALL platforms...
On this weeks episode we talk with comedian Brendan Creecy (aka Brendo) about his journey with mental health and substances use and how the choice to abstain was ultimately life changing.After that, we discuss the complicated road to finding a medication that works and how the wrong medication can sometimes make things far worse.Episodes drop every Monday at 6pm on ALL platforms!
On this weeks episode of The Smoke Break, we're joined by all three hosts Zane Thomas, Zoe Schwartz, and Taylor Barrett to talk about jealousy and our tendency to compare ourselves unfairly to others, as well as the emotions that might arise from that. After that, we discuss resiliency and the importance of being able to continue to show up after difficult situations with hope and enthusiasm.Episodes drop every Monday at 6pm on ALL platforms!
On this week's episode of The Smoke Break, we chat with Dani, a DJ from Shady Pines Radio, about the impact of isolation on mental health, particularly in the aftermath of the pandemic. We delve into the importance of differentiating between essential alone time and detrimental isolation to support overall well-being.Next we talk about the complex nature of loss. Dani recounts her experience with an ectopic pregnancy. The discussion broadens to cover various forms of loss, including personal identity and physical abilities.Episodes drop every Monday at 6pm on ALL platforms!
On this weeks episode of The Smoke Break, we talk with comedian Daisy Claire and discuss the impacts of autistic masking, the challenges of navigating societal expectations, and the importance of accommodating neurodivergent experiences.Next we discuss the concept of shame, particularly how it affects people with marginalized identities and those who experience neurodivergence.Lastly we delve into the topic of identity and share personal journeys of uncovering our true selves which often requires dismantling imposed expectations and cultural messages.Episodes drop every Monday on ALL platforms at 6pm.
On this weeks episode of The Smoke Break, we talk with Portland comedian Ikes about the effect weather can have on our moods and how to best navigate the change in seasons.After that, we talk about hallucinogens and the impact they have on our perceptions and how that can affect our overall outlook on life.Episodes drop every Monday at 6pm on ALL platforms!
On this week's episode of The Smoke Break, we talk with social worker and comedian, Joey Wander as we discuss harm reduction and what it means in our professional and personal lives. After that, we unpack some of the challenges associated with survivors guilt and how to move on if all we have is memories.Lastly, we discuss religious upbringings and the impact tjey can have on our mental well-being and continued self-image.Episodes drop everything Monday at 6pm! Link in comments/ bio…
On this week's episode of The Smoke Break, we talk with comedian Jane Malone about her process of starting therapy and early childhood experiences with it.We also discuss suicidal ideation and how our desire to live is fundamental to seeking purpose.Lastly, we share our thoughts and experiences on disordered eating and the impacts of diet culture on body image.Episodes drop everything Monday at 6pm! Link in comments/ bio…
On this week's episode of The Smoke Break, we talk with student and social worker Emma Cooper, about kindness and the impact it makes on people who aren't often acknowledged.After that, we discuss learning and some of the barriers and challenges that come with being neurodivergent in system that expects one size to fit all.Lastly, we consider the impact of self talk and how our inner monologue can contribute to shaping a perception of our outer world.Episodes drop every Monday on ALL platforms at 6pm!Link in comments/ bio…
On this week's episode of The Smoke Break, we talk with hosts Zane, Zoe, and Taylor about the different outcomes instant and delayed gratification can bring and how we can enrich our lives by seeking both.We also discuss the difficulties with achieving and maintaining focus over different periods of time.Lastly, we wrap things up on the topic of decision making and the different factors we consider when making important choices.Episode drop every Monday on ALL platforms at 6pm!
Tw: Death & ViolenceOn this week's episode of The Smoke Break, we talk with comedian G Wade about what trust can look like and the important role trust plays in building communityWe also discuss the topics of safety, self-preservation, and the impact of perception in those situations.Lastly, we discuss the importance of role modeling and how we can use our negative experiences to guide people down better paths.Episodes drop every Monday at 6pm on ALL platforms!
This weeks episode of The Smoke Break, is a short one. About 5 minutes.But we thought it was important to get this information out there and address an episode we made a couple months back. We've been at the studio every week since, recording and probably overthinking it while trying to say things in a perfect way. But often times, “perfection” can get in the way of “doing the best we can in the moment.” And as a result, it's understandably appeared like we are unwilling to address what happened which is genuinely not the case. Our only desire is to not cause further harm while also addressing the harm that was already caused. Check out the episode, and as always we are more than willing to receive feedback and have open and respectful conversations with our community and listeners.
On this week's episode of “The Smoke Break” we talk with comedian and sociologist, Olivia Zivot, about their study and findings on the impact of pornography and how it can be used as a tool for teaching and self discovery.We also discuss the concept of intersectional feminism and how it is important for creating inclusivity.Lastly, we talk about dehumanization and how it is used as a tool to justify oppressive systems.Episodes drop every Monday on ALL platforms.
On this weeks episode of, “The Smoke Break” we talk with ex-comedian and current social worker Timo Frantziss, about taking a step back from the things that are important to us and some of the reasons why.We also discuss substance use and the experiences and circumstances that may lead an individual to use as well as some of the benefits and draw backs as well.Finally we wrap things up with a conversation about what the healthiest version of you could possible look like and the journey it often takes to get there.Episodes drop on ALL platforms every Monday at 6pm!
On this weeks episode of The Smoke Break, we sit down with comedian Jamal Coleman and discuss how identities, can and DO, evolve over time.We also talk about self belief and the importance of being our own biggest cheerleaders in order to combat some of those negative voices in our heads.Lastly, we chat about imposter syndrome and the tendency to not be able to see ourselves realistically for how amazing we truly are.Episodes drop on ALL platforms every Monday at 6pm!
On this weeks episode of The Smoke Break, we talk with comedian Ac Oneal about negative self talk and the ways we can combat those inner voices. We also discuss, comparison stealing any value we may find in ourselves by measuring it against someone's else's success.Lastly, we wrap things up by sharing our values and describe the ways that they motivate us to keep moving forward.Episodes drop every Monday on ALL platforms…
On this week's episode of “The Smoke Break”, we talk with comedian Bryan Bixby before he leaves to make his next big move and discuss some of the anxiety that can come with that.We also discuss insecurity and how self perception can contribute to our ability to perform.Lastly, we wrap things up by talking about how identity can be tied to what we do and how knowing who you are fundamentally can contribute to higher self esteem.Episodes drop every Monday at 6pm on ALL platforms.
On this weeks episode of “The Smoke Break”, we talk with comedian Mack Magee about the benefits and challenges of being in a polyamorous relationship.We also talk about how body image issue can affect our relationship with food as well as ourselves.We round out the episode discussing the importance of consistency and how this goal can seem even more daunting as time goes on and expectations change.Episodes drop every Monday from at 6pm on ALL platforms.
On this weeks episode of “The Smoke Break” we talk with comedian Matt Franco about self love and our sometimes inability to feel the love of others.We also discuss the points of rupture and repair that happen in all of our relationships and what it looks like to make good again.Last we talk about chasing contentment as opposed to happiness and all the hurdles involved with trying to endlessly be “happy.”New episodes drop every Monday at 6pm!
In this weeks episode of The Smoke Break, we talk with rapper Swiggle Mandela about depression, processing trauma, and contextualizing it in art.We also discuss the anxiety that can come with looking to the future for a sense of relief and how further suffering can occur by not being present.Episodes in the new year will drop every Monday on ALL platforms at 6pm.Link in comments/ bio…
On this weeks episode of The Smoke Break, we talk with comedian Erica Figueroa about problem solving and why it's difficult do when you're activated.We also discuss toxic relationships, what we can learn from them, and the toll they can take on our mental health.Lastly, we discuss how making gratitude a practice can help us keep a positive attitude & perspective in life.Episode drop (hopefully) every Friday on ALL platforms at 6pm.
This week on The Smoke Break we welcome back comedian Jamal Coleman!We dive into a conversation weighing logic versus emotion and how to balance the two.Later, we talk about how to deal with guilt, how it presents itself, and some ways we've grown and learned from it.Episodes drop on ALL platforms every Friday…
On this week's episode of “The Smoke Break” we welcome guest host and comedian Jaren George into the studio.We talk about being raised by single parents and the stigma surrounding it. We also revisit anxiety and how it shows up for each of us.Episodes (typically) drop every Friday at 6pm on ALL platforms!
On this weeks episode we come back from a long hiatus to talk with Logan Loughmiller about the stages of grief.We also discuss sobriety and the importance of understanding that substance use is often the only coping mechanism some people have access to.Episodes drop on ALL platforms every Friday at 6pm. We're back y'all!
The Smoke Break's second live show featured dynamic and cathartic conversations from Stephanie Strange, Ben Harkins, Tory Ward, and returning guest host Jasmine Nothing. We discuss everything from forgiving your parents, to how our art reflects our trauma, and even struggling to have conversations about mental health. With an enthusiastic audience and wonderful guests; we're thrilled to present you with the second live episode.
On this weeks episode of The Smoke Break, we talk with comedian and student of psychology Faith Spencer, about the Jonah Hill texts and what it really looks like to set a boundary.We also discuss dealing with depression and how reframing can be helpful when trying to see things through a different lense.Episodes premier on Shady Pines Radio every Sunday from 9-10 am and drop on ALL platforms every Monday at 6pm.
On this week's episode of The Smoke Break, we're joined by Seattle comic, therapist, and family counselor: Noah “Dino Dad” Rubin, as we get his thoughts on decompression and de-escalation tactics.Then we're treated to the musical stylings of pianist, singer, and peer support specialist; Doug Westberg.After his set, we sit down with him discuss some unique and interesting perspectives on mental health and complex trauma.Episodes premier on Shady Pines Radio every Sunday from 9-10 am and drop on ALL platforms every Monday at 6pm.
On this week's episode of The Smoke Break; local comedian Sam Whitely shares his thoughts on shyness and the importance of taking care of our base needs.The second half of the show features a live performance by rapper Marshall Law, followed by a discussion about how art has influenced specific parts of our lives.Episodes premier on Shady Pines Radio every Sunday from 9-10 am and drop on ALL platforms every Monday at 6pm.
On this weeks episode of The Smoke Break, comedian and friend Colin Mattox sits down with us to share his personal experiences growing up with two moms; a unique experience that Zane can relate to.Colin opens up about how this shaped his view of masculinity, how he learned to balance perfectionism and passion, and we all discuss our experience being resistant to therapy.Episodes premier on Shady Pines Radio every Sunday from 9-10 am and drop on ALL platforms every Monday at 6pm.
This week we sit down with Lucas Copp and talk about showing up for yourself when it's most difficult. Lucas opens up about turning grief into motivation and even the potential downsides that might have.Then, after a heartfelt performance by Emiliano Raps, we sit down as he shares his experience with sexuality and what coming out later in life has looked like for him.Episodes premier on Shady Pines and Pretty Dope Xperience every Sunday from 9-10am. Recording drop every Monday at 6pm.
On this week's episode we talk with comedian Brent Lowrey about the desire to people please and how that may make it difficult to find your voice.This weeks musical guest is Rachelle Cochran aka Dirty Racket who shares her ideas on hope and who is a source of that for her.
On this weeks episode of “The Smoke Break” we discuss anxiety and how that can effect everything from creativity to daily life.We're then joined by Malik Rayshon for a gripping and exclusive hip hop set, followed by a sit down with him to discuss the creative process, the difficulties of creating, and how he navigates them.Episodes premiere on Shady Pines Radio and Pretty Dope Xperience Radio every Sunday and release on all platforms Monday at 6pm!
On this weeks episode of The Smoke Break, we talk with Musician Micki XO about empathy and neurodivergence.We also discuss finding silver linings after a breakdown.Episodes premiere on Shady Pines Radio and Pretty Dope Xperience Radio every Sunday and release on all platforms Monday at 6pm!
On this weeks episode of The Smoke Break, we talk with comedian Dennis Cruise about mortality and self medication.We also talk with musical guest Edward Berneir about motivation and the intersectionality of art.New episodes premiere every Sunday from 9-10am on Shady Pines and Pretty Dope Xperience Radio! Recorded episodes drop on ALL platforms Monday at 6pm!
On this weeks episode we talk with Comedian G Wade about being authentic and the way this shows up in our lives.We also discuss the topic of trauma and it many forms and how we can react and respond to those feelings.Episodes air on Shady Pines and Pretty Dope Xperience Radio Sundays from 9-10am! Recordings drop Mondays on ALL platforms at 6pm!
On this week's episode of The Smoke Break we talk with Comedian Hewitt Pagenstecher about time management and maintaining relationships in our community.Our musical guest MamaFi joins us to discuss accountability and what that can look like in our lives. Episodes air on Shady Pines and Pretty Dope Xperience Radio Sundays from 9-10am! Recordings drop Mondays on ALL platforms at 6pm!
Our first in person live episode features storyteller and Harm Reduction advocate Jasmine Nothing who talks to us about the importance and (and unimportance) of decision making.Musical Guest is Laryssa Birdseye who shares with us her experience of mental health in the music industry.We also get stand-up comedy from Kyle Adams and Amanda Lynn Deal who talk to us about grief and judgements.Check out The Smoke Break every Sunday from 9-10am on Shady Pines Radio and Pretty Dope Xperience Radio! Download the apps! Catch up on MixCloud, keep up on Spotify and YouTube. Episodes drop every Monday at 6pm
On this week's episode of The Smoke Break, we talk with friend of the pod Liz Markwood about the importance of reaching out and taking an active part in managing our mental health. We also discuss healing from our childhoods while trying to maintain our family connections. Episodes drop on all platforms Mondays at 6pm
On this weeks episode of The Smoke Break, we talk with Jamal Coleman about risk taking and anxiety management.We also talk with Free Tillman about the focus it takes to be a working performer.Stick around for a freestyle perfromance from Jamal with beats by Free TillmanEpisodes drop on all platforms every Monday at 6pm.
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