The Wiz Bleier...

In this profoundly moving episode of "The Wiz Bleier...," we sit down with Frank King, a man who's turned the tables on darkness with humor and grace. Frank, known as the "Mental Health Comedian," shares his journey from writing for the Tonight Show to becoming a beacon of hope in the world of mental health advocacy. Frank opens up about his personal battles with depression and suicide, and how comedy became his lifeline, transforming his struggles into a mission to help others. Through laughter and candid storytelling, Frank challenges the stigma surrounding mental health, offering insights into the healing power of humor. Join us as Frank reveals how he leverages his comedic talents to educate and inspire, discussing his five TEDx talks, his unique perspective on "dying to be funny," and the pivotal moments that shaped his career as a speaker, author, and mental health advocate. Frank's story is not just about the battles fought in silence; it's a testament to the power of speaking out, finding humor in the pain, and the incredible strength of the human spirit to overcome. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the intersection of comedy and mental health, the importance of advocacy, and the life-saving power of embracing one's truth with courage and laughter. https://www.mentalhealthcomedian.com/

As a bestselling author, humorist, columnist, and co-owner of Chicago's famed Broadway Antique Market, Duane's multifaceted career offers a treasure trove of insights and stories that captivate and inspire. His acclaimed memoirs, "Vintage Confidential" and "Selling Dead People's Things," not only top charts but also shine as beacons in LGBTQ literature, meriting recognition from prestigious platforms like The Advocate. Duane's journey is a testament to the power of embracing one's passions and the importance of storytelling in capturing the human experience. Whether you're a fan of vintage finds, a lover of literature, or someone who appreciates the art of humor, this episode offers something for everyone.

In this captivating episode, we journey through the remarkable life of Marlin, a luminary who has spent over five decades in show business, leaving an indelible mark on two genres and influencing nearly half a billion people worldwide. Marlin's story is not just one of fame and success; it's a narrative of unconventional choices, from his early days as a circus runaway and elephant keeper, to his rise as a national television juggler, Las Vegas performer, and comedy club headliner. Yet, at the pinnacle of his career, Marlin chose an unexpected path, retreating to a jungle treehouse to live without electricity for five years. Marlin's multifaceted life as a humorist, toy designer, homesteader, philosopher, cartoonist, and author unfolds in our discussion, revealing the depth of his insights on life, creativity, and the pursuit of happiness. His off-grid lifestyle, passion for growing food, and extensive travels to 47 countries have furnished him with a unique 100,000-foot perspective on life, inspiring play and imagination in everyone he encounters. Delve into Marlin's wisdom on embracing the road less traveled, the value of inspired play in adulthood, and his advocacy for astrotourism and the fight against light pollution. This episode is not just an exploration of a man's extraordinary life but a testament to the power of living authentically and the beauty of following one's imagination wherever it may lead. Join us as we uncover the stories, lessons, and laughs from a man who has truly lived a life unlike any other. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to Marlin's work, this episode promises to enlighten, entertain, and inspire.

In this episode, we delve into the extraordinary life and career of Dan Henk, a multifaceted artist whose journey through adversity and creativity is nothing short of inspiring. From his early days of drawing political cartoons for Madcap Magazine and creating illustrations for underground movements like Maximum Rock and Roll, Dan's unique perspective on art and life began to take shape.

Ari Gunzburg is a rising new star in personal growth who is working to solve human disconnection. He uses his experiences in the great outdoors to talk about finding a greater sense of belonging. In his speeches and his coaching programs, Ari draws on his experiences in the great healing domain of nature to give hope and light to others. He is the author of the popular parable, The Little Book Of Greatness.

Wendy Sellers, The HR Lady, is a candid speaker and consultant. Featured in USA Today, she advises on employee retention via effective leadership. Generally speaking, Wendy Sellers, The HR Lady®, tells it like it is while discussing crappy leadership and jerks at work that make the workplace a living hell for most people. She discusses these realities in her books "Suck It Up, Buttercup" and "The Assh*le Whisperer".

Jonathan Pritchard is the founder of several consulting companies, a multiple author, world-traveling entertainer, and public speaker for high stake businesses. His client list includes BP, Discover, State Farm, United Airlines, and more. His journey has taken him from doing 19,000 performances at Universal Studios to appearing on America's Got Talent to entertaining United States troops stationed all over South Korea.  His unique perspective of working with thousands of audiences has given him powerful insights into the art & science of communication, influence, persuasion, and high stake negotiations.  This makes him not just a thought leader but a genuine mind reader. Now his mission is to empower more than a million business people to accomplish their most ambitious goals in less time than they ever thought possible. 

In 1984 Meredith and Erin McCann disappeared from their suburban home in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Almost 40 years later they are ready to tell their story of being on the run. This is an amazing biography of two young girls fleeing the country with the FBI in hot pursuit.

Brian is a former marine and a small business owner. His company, Natural Office Furniture, is a Service-disabled veteran-owned small business in Pittsburgh. Find him at www.naturaloffice.net

John Tabis is Founder and Chairman of The Bouqs Company. In 2012, along with co-founder Juan Pablo Montúfar, Tabis launched the company, now an industry leader in the online floral space that delivers flowers and plants fresh from eco-friendly, sustainable farms around the world to doorsteps nationwide.

Joe Fria is an American stage, television, and film actor. He has appeared in such movies as Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, The Belko Experiment, and Speedwagon. Additionally, he is a writer and producer in the film industry and a voiceover actor and director. Joe is the voice of Slappy in the Scholastic Goosebumps: Slappyworld audiobooks and D'Argencourt/Darkblade and Philippe/Frozer in Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir.

Dan Peterson, founder of The Compass 4 Life, is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and an advanced trainer for the Nurtured Heart Approach™ (NHA). He earned his Masters degree in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University in 2002.

Tom Ziglar is the CEO of Ziglar, formally known as the The Zig Ziglar Corporation. Tom is a sought after presenter, speaker, and author. Tom shares his lessons with billion-dollar companies, small-business owners, and prestigious academic institutions, allowing thousands of clients to take their business further than they ever dreamed possible.

Jeff Schmutz is a singer/songwriter. Jeff is the guitarist and lead vocals for the band Good Brother Earl. Their new album "Dog Years" is out now.

Sarah Kaminski is the founder of Best Ever Granola and recipe developer for The Veg Out Project. She has a background in holistic health, lifestyle coaching and plant based nutrition. In 2020, during the pandemic, Sarah realized she needed to pivot her serviced business and launched Best Ever Granola. She has been recognized by the Good Food Awards for ingredient sourcing, sustainability standards, and epic taste.

On Episode #10 I spoke with Jon Nelson regarding his struggle with major depression and anxiety. Jon has been an outspoken advocate on mental illness and destroying the stigma. On this episode Jon discusses his recent deep brain stimulation procedure and the relief he has begun to experience. He also addresses the ongoing issues and concerns related to the disease.

Jake Herbert is an Olympian, Business Coach, self proclaimed ninja. As a 9X US National Wrestling Champion, 3 X World medalist, Wrestling, hard work and being learning based has taken him to over 356 different countries, competing, meeting and working with rock stars, celebrities, billionaires and presidents.

Charlie "The Spaniard” Brenneman is a former Division I wrestler, Spanish teacher, and professional MMA fighter. Now The Spaniard teaches again, not in classrooms but online and on stage, aiming to embody and inspire lifelong learning as vital for thriving.

Jim is an NCAA Division I All American wrestler, former NCAA Division I head coach, internationally recognized TEDx speaker, personal performance coach, and host of the Success Through Failure podcast. While growing up the son of a construction worker and secretary, he had the unique experience of spending significant time with Olympians and millionaires and discovered their systems and frameworks for world-class performance. His clients include CEOs, entrepreneurs, and leaders from Fortune 500 companies as well as current and former athletes from the NFL, UFC, NCAA, and Olympics.

CEO and Founder, Rodrigo Lima, started Lime Design in 2015 with the goal to help people in South Florida and around the world make their dreams a reality. Rodrigo Lima started his career as an Industrial Designer, 11 years later he begin his own design firm. After years of hard work and preparation, Rodrigo Lima has culminated a strong and versatile team of designers, engineers, and marketing specialists that can tackle almost any project.

Ruben Gonzalez is a four time Olympian, motivational speaker, and best-selling author. Ruben didn't take up the sport of luge until he was 21. Against all odds, four years later he was competing in the Winter Olympics. At the age of 47 he was competing against 20-year-olds in the Vancouver Olympics. At 55, after a seven year break, he became the oldest person to compete internationally in the sport of luge. Learn more about Ruben at his website thelugeman.com

Dr. Phil Yeske is the Science and Alliance Officer at the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation, UMDF. Dr. Yeske is responsible for leading the foundation's research mission and managing all scientific and business development efforts related to improved diagnoses, development of treatments and cures, and optimized patient care. Learn more about the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation at www.UMDF.org

Mike Christ is a professional photographer. Before becoming a full-time wedding and corporate branding photographer Mike worked in the corporate world as an art director and graphic designer.

Kenny Lehman spends his days as a Sales Manager. The rest of his time is spent mentoring and coaching 14U girls softball, and growing Victory Multisport. As a 6 time Ironman finisher and 20+ running and swimming marathons completed, Kenny's goal is to finish what he started and to be the best husband, father, friend and coach he's designed to be. Knowing he was meant to impact others, starting Victory Multisport was the obvious next step in his journey to further his mission.

Jon Nelson is a marketing professional who has dedicated his life to destroying the stigma of mental Illness. Originally from Pittsburgh, Jon and his kids are die hard Steelers and Pens fans. As he says, "Sorry Buccos, you have to give us something to cheer for!". In his personal time Jon loves spending time with his wife as well as coaching his two boy's ice hockey team and his daughter's softball team. Due to Jon's own struggles with mental illness, he has become a fierce advocate and openly tells his story. This was a heavy conversation, but is one that needs to be had.

Justin Devlin is Owner of Mike and Tony's Restaurant. With five locations and growing Justin and his team have created specific processes for every detail of his business, making sure his customer's always receive high quality food at a reasonable price.

Allison Howard is the founder and CEO of Nollapelli, a new company bringing textile technology into the bedroom to help you sleep, look, and feel your best. With a background in chemical engineering, two decades in material science companies in the US and overseas, and a passion for simple skincare and wellness, Allison wants you to get more out of the 1/3 of your day you spend in bed. Nollapelli products can be found in homes and in some of the finest hotels and spas across the country.

Bonnie DeMotte is the Executive Director at Second Harvest Community Thrift Store. Second Harvest has quickly become a community beacon and will continue to make a difference under Bonnie's vision.

Tony Fusaro is the Owner of Alpha Athletics.  His journey began in 2009 and has shaped the trajectory of his life since. He partnered in his first gym in January of 2012 before breaking out on his own to open Alpha in September of 2013.  He's cultivated an atmosphere at Alpha that is inclusive, supportive, challenging and fun.

Brian Helsel is the president of Phoenixx International and is currently the President of the American Tin Trade Association. A graduate of University of Pittsburgh with a degree in Economics and History, Brian has created a substantial US customer base in all metals, along with developing a scrap joint venture for super-alloys, and other independent certified alloys.

Stephen S. Stallings is an experienced trial lawyer with over two decades of public and private experience providing counsel in False Claims Act/qui tam matters, white collar defense, commercial and securities litigation, FCPA, corporate compliance and internal investigations. He frequently serves as lead trial counsel in complex federal cases. Mr. Stallings served for over seven years as an Assistant United States Attorney for the U.S. Department of Justice, where he prosecuted fraud and public corruption matters through investigation, indictment, trial and appeal in the U.S. Attorney's Offices for the Southern District of Florida in Miami and the Western District of Pennsylvania in Pittsburgh.

Shea Murtaugh, founder and president of Hoffman Murtaugh, has built the largest media only agency in Pittsburgh. Additionally, Shea is involved with several non-profit organizations in the city and in her residence of Sewickley including the Pittsburgh Film Office Board, FBI Citizens Academy, Sewickley Planning Commission, Child Health Association of Sewickley, Pittsburgh Regional Innovative Council, and the Animal Care Assistance Fund, and is also a member of the Women's President Organization.

Brian is a former marine and owner of Natural Office Furniture. We had fun chatting about business and Brian's experience being a Marine... all while enjoying a few beers.

The first podcast test run with guest Rocky Bleier.  Rocky is an American hero, Vietnam veteran, and Pittsburgh Steeler Super Bowl champion.