Fishing Without Bait: A Full Impact Mindfulness Podcast

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, Jim Ellermeyer and producer Mike Sorg wade into some deep—and dangerous—waters. Together, they explore how stochastic rhetoric and obfuscation have become the most powerful tools in modern political communication. What do those words mean? In short, they describe how leaders and media use vague, coded, or confusing language to manipulate emotions, create division, and dodge accountability. From “dog whistles” to “plausible deniability,” Jim explains how these tactics quietly shape behavior and beliefs—without ever saying things outright. But this episode isn’t just about politics; it’s about mindfulness in the face of manipulation. Jim and Mike offer practical ways to recognize these tricks, question what we’re told, and bring compassion back into our conversations. “If you have a choice between being right and being kind, choose kind—and you’re going to be right every time.” In a time of noise and division, Fishing Without Bait invites listeners to slow down, think critically, and reconnect with what truly matters: kindness, awareness, and authenticity. 🎧 Listen now at: www.FishingWithoutBait.com [http://www.FishingWithoutBait.com] 📺 Watch on YouTube: Fishing Without Bait 489 💬 Join the discussion: #Mindfulness #MediaLiteracy #FishingWithoutBait

In this eye-opening episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer is joined once again by producer Mike Sorg to explore how modern media shapes our identities, fuels our purchases, and even distorts our sense of self-worth. From emotional manipulation in advertising to influencer culture and data-driven targeting, Jim and Mike unpack the psychological tactics behind today’s media and tech. How does a Power Glove from the ’80s connect to the viral influencer culture of today? Are we in control of our choices—or are we reacting without realizing it? In this episode: • Why media makes us feel “less than” • Celebrity endorsements vs. authentic influence • Targeted ads, data mining, and algorithmic persuasion • Unrealistic expectations and identity loss in the digital age • The mental health toll of comparison culture • What it really means to be unmanageable • Mindful practices to resist manipulation “It’s much easier to fool someone than to convince them they’re being fooled.” Take a breath. Check the facts. And most importantly—remember who you are. 🎧 Listen, learn, and share at FishingWithoutBait.com

In Episode 487 of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer is joined by producer Mike Sorg for a heartfelt conversation rooted in the enduring wisdom of Fred Rogers. Together, they explore themes of uncertainty, emotional resilience, and self-acceptance through the lens of full-impact mindfulness. This episode dives into Mr. Rogers’ most impactful quotes, including “I like you just the way you are,” and how these simple yet profound affirmations can guide us through fear, overwhelm, and self-doubt. Jim and Mike reflect on the concept of “leveling up” in life like a video game—gaining experience, becoming more resilient, and making meaningful choices. Listeners will hear discussions on: • Managing emotions by making them “mentionable and manageable” • Accepting life’s challenges without needing immediate solutions • The importance of being a helper—or recognizing helpers around you • The difference between kindness and being “right” • Embracing who you are and offering that same grace to others End your day with a moment of mindfulness, self-kindness, and the reminder that you already have something valuable to offer the world. 🧘 “Do a kindness for yourself. Do a kindness for another.”

In this episode, Jim Ellermeyer invites you to reflect on one of the most fundamental shifts you can make in life: choosing to live intentionally rather than simply existing. Together with producer Mike Sorg, Jim explores the concept of being a human being rather than a human doing, and how small mindful changes—like replacing “I have to” with “I choose to”—can radically transform your daily experience. 💭 Topics include: • The danger of living on autopilot • How “should” creates shame and anxiety • The power of journaling and silence • Letting go of digital distractions and negativity • Celebrating small victories and choosing growth over comfort You’ll walk away with tangible insights and invitations to return to your authentic self—one breath, one choice at a time. ⸻ 🛍 Grab the Learn to Fish Without Bait 365-Day Mindfulness Journal & Adult Coloring Book: https://www.fishingwithoutbait.com/swag [https://www.fishingwithoutbait.com/swag] 💖 Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/fishingwithoutbait [https://www.patreon.com/fishingwithoutbait] 🌐 Listen to more at: https://www.fishingwithoutbait.com [https://www.fishingwithoutbait.com]

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, Jim Ellermeyer and producer Mike explore the powerful concept of cognitive clarity—the antidote to anxiety and the constant mental noise of modern life. Learn how to manage racing thoughts, move from fear-based reactivity to logical clarity, and reclaim your emotional sovereignty by choosing your own narrative over external expectations. ✨ Topics include: • Why anxiety lives in the future • How to externalize racing thoughts • Regaining emotional sovereignty from validation-seeking • Listening to learn vs. listening to respond • The ancient meaning of “Abracadabra” and why your words matter 🎧 Support the show: 👉 Patreon.com/fishingwithoutbait 📘 New! Get the official companion book: Learn to Fish Without Bait: A 365-Day Mindfulness Journal and Adult Coloring Book 👉 Buy here 🎣 “Unplug your television and take up fishing. And for a truly mindful experience — fish without bait.”