That's So Rad!

Courage in Crisis: John Thompson’s Incredible Story of Surviving a Brutal Farm Accident

**There is some graphic content in describing the accident. In this episode, Travis is joined by John Thompson to talk about his story that riveted the world in the early 90s. John experienced a life-changing farm accident on his family farm in North Dakota in 1992, where he lost both arms due to a machinery incident. Despite the severity of his injuries, he survived thanks to his quick thinking and the support of his loyal dog, Tuffy. His resilience and determination during recovery turned his personal tragedy into a powerful story of hope and inspiration, capturing the attention of major media platforms and audiences worldwide. Travis and John talk through his journey and all that has transpired since. Get John's book: "Home in One Piece" https://a.co/d/03CycPaN Follow John on socials: https://linktr.ee/johnwaynethompson92?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=687b8b1c-3bcb-42fc-a993-a1952c83bac3 IN THIS EPISODE: * The detailed recounting of John's farm accident and the immediate aftermath. * The role of his loyal dog Tuffy in his survival and recovery. * The emotional and psychological challenges of accepting physical and public scrutiny. * His journey through medical surgeries, skin grafts, and learning to live without arms. * How his story gained worldwide attention and the complexities of fame. * The importance of embracing authenticity and empowering others to realize their potential.

A Fun and Nostalgic Look at the History of the Word "Rad"

In this episode, Travis reads Aaron Gilbreath’s essay, "A Brief History of the Word Rad," which takes a fun and nostalgic look at the history of the word "rad," exploring its roots in skateboarding and pop culture and its enduring presence in American vernacular. Some of the cult classic films mentioned include the BMX flick "Rad," and the skateboarding movies "Gleaming the Cube" and "Thrashin'." The essay also explores other popular expressions and slang terms from the 80s (and prior) that emerge from subcultures and evolve into cultural icons. As Aaron points out many of them are not only cringey now, but have no relevance whatsoever. Why some words die out and others maintain lasting power is an interesting phenomenon that the essay also explores. Checkout Aaron Gilbreath's website: https://aarongilbreath.com/ In this episode: * Origins of the word 'rad' in Southern California skate culture * The influence of 1980s slang and Valley Speak on popular culture * The linguistic evolution and cultural significance of 'rad' * The role of skateboarding pioneers like the Z-Boys in shaping slang * The cyclical nature of slang and cultural artifacts

Experiencing the World Through Tech, Tunes, and Theology with Roosevelt Leggett

In the episode, Travis welcomes his friend Roosevelt Leggett to the podcast. Roosevelt blends his passions for technology, music, faith, and exploration to live intentionally and connect more deeply with others. The two discuss plenty of random things as well like Roosevelt's nicknames, origami, a crazy karaoke story, and the fear of being chosen out of the crowd for magic shows. This episode offers insights into embracing uniqueness, the intersection of culture and technology, and practical ways to cultivate curiosity. Roosevelt shares a really cool Venn diagram exercise for his life that illustrates his diverse passions and interests and how those things intersect to shape his identity and worldview. It's a great tool anyone could use for creating a holistic approach to living intentionally and meaningfully. IN THIS EPISODE: * Roosevelt shares the origin story behind his unique name and the significance of family traditions * Exploring Roosevelt’s creative passions, including origami and music as a means of cultural exploration * Insight into how his background in communication and tech influences his work and life philosophy * Personal stories of resilience, faith, and inspiration, including family journeys and health challenges * Practical advice for fostering curiosity and kindness amidst a fast-changing world

From Panic to Purpose: Practicing Medicine and Merging Faith and Science with Wes Hardin

Travis welcomes his friend Wes Hardin on the podcast. Wes shares about a fun entrepreneurial idea for friends that he created with his wife. They then explore Wes's journey from being a science teacher to becoming a Physician Assistant and the motivation behind this journey. We shares candidly about his experiences with anxiety, and talks about how his faith and a perspective shift became a game changer for his life outlook. They explore the intersection of science, faith, medicine, and miracles. Wes shares some compelling stories, scientific insights, and talks about his cool side project Meaningful Science. He also shares about his spoken word poetry and how he uses it to talk about faith and reason on the stage. Supper Sleuths Mystery Kits: https://suppersleuths.com Wes's science and apologetics website: https://www.meaningfulscience.com/ Wes's spoken word videos: https://www.youtube.com/@meaningfulscience A spoken word with Jeremy: https://youtu.be/ZFmmPA9Jj_8?si=dTD2cQftOJFxwTx1 Wes's wife's marriage and enneagram resource mentioned: https://www.enneagramandmarriage.com In this episode: * Wes talks about he and his wife's Supper Sleuth's couple's mystery dinner kits * His journey from teacher to physician assistant * Overcoming anxiety through faith and perspective * Becoming inspired to fight disease * Handling stress and anxiety as a medical professional * Innovative ways faith intersects with medicine * The relationship between science, reason, and Christianity * The use of poetry and art in apologetics

Meet Jeremy Vangsnes: Unable to Speak but the Loudest Voice in the Room

In this episode, Travis welcomes a very special guest! His brother Jeremy joins the podcast using an assistive speaking device. After a devastating car accident in 2009 left him initially pronounced dead, then at best vegetative with a traumatic brain injury, he's continued to defy so many challenges in front of him--including the greatest of all--despair. Jeremy was a collegiate All-American runner with his entire future before him. The accident stripped it all away. To this day, he needs 24-7 care and cannot speak, however he has the greatest joy that those in his life have ever seen. This episode highlights resilience, faith, and the power of joy and humor even in life's toughest circumstances. Jeremy shares where he gets his inspiration and brings some powerful messages of encouragement. Checkout Jeremy's website where you can learn more about his story, checkout his art, and sign up for his monthly newsletter! https://www.joyindespair.com Watch Jeremy playing the "Feetar." https://youtu.be/6Vc47XXDVgM?si=rtkUYx3AtAjiOrv_ Find Jeremy on socials @ Jeremy Vangsnes IN THIS EPISODE: 1. The life-changing accident and Jeremy's initial prognosis of being in a vegetative state with a TBI 2. Jeremy's recovery and regaining movement in his arm and eyes 3. The development and use of Tobii Dynavox device for spelling and communication 4. Jeremy's humorous personality and one-liners that reveal his vibrant character 5. How Jeremy's joy is his greatest gift and voice for others 6. The role of faith, family, and perseverance in overcoming life’s challenges 7. Jeremy's experiences with questions from family and his favorite conversations 8. Jeremy makes art with his foot and plays an improvised guitar for his foot called the "feetar"