Episode 31: "Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless."

Christie Geahlen, 40

Pueblo, CO

Recorded: 05/11/2026

While walking along the Pueblo Riverwalk, I stumbled into one of the rawest conversations I’ve had yet.

I met Christie, a Kentucky native sitting alone with a hospital bracelet on her wrist and bags at her feet. What followed was the kind of story you can’t script.

We talk about the loss that changed her life as a teenager, how grief reshaped her relationship with God, and what it’s like carrying depression and mental health struggles from childhood into adulthood.

Christie opens up about being prescribed Zoloft at an early age, surviving a suicide attempt at 12 years old, and spending years functioning as a “high-functioning addict” while still holding jobs and pushing forward through chaos.

Her story stretches across the country — from hitchhiking to Florida after being kicked out, to a stint working for Warner Brothers in Las Vegas.

The conversation doesn’t avoid the darker realities. Christie speaks honestly about a collapsing marriage, living on the streets while waiting for assisted housing, and the deep emotional scars tied to pregnancy loss.

But underneath all of it is a conversation about resilience.

Christie is now studying medical billing and coding in college, and together we explore bigger questions about truth, loneliness, mentorship, purpose, and what it really means to keep rebuilding yourself when life keeps testing you.

“There were plenty of eyes on the woman sitting alone with her cigarette that afternoon. But while most people walked past, J.J. tugged on his leash and pulled me in her direction, almost like he already knew we were supposed to stop and say hello.

She kindly invited us to sit with her, and what started as a cigarette turned into a 90-minute conversation about life, pain, survival, and everything in between. As we sat there talking, I noticed something interesting — some of the people passing by who had been staring earlier now wore small smiles on their faces when they glanced over at us.

By the end of it, we helped her carry a few bags and gave her a ride to her next destination.

You truly never know what someone is carrying inside of them unless you slow down long enough to see the human being beneath the situation. I hope we can all find a little more compassion for one another. Sometimes kindness costs nothing more than a conversation.“

P.s. sorry about the birds.

Music by Quie

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Thank you so much for taking the time out of your important life to listen, It means the world to me.

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In honor of those who served our country. During times of peace and war. Those who gave the supreme sacrifice, Those still missing and those who came home both whole and broken.

In honor of those still fighting everyday to keep their head above water.

Episode 30: "Man in the Mirror"

Bradley Richard, 42

Williston, ND

Recorded 12/30/2024

What do you do after you’ve already walked through fire? We close the season 2 with a conversation that’s equal parts confession and compass, sitting with Bradley as he traces a path from early rebellion and first heartbreak to a string of devastating losses that fed a brutal addiction—and the moment he chose to live. He talks about an intentional overdose, seven minutes gone, and the treatment-room wake-up call that shattered his assumptions about who addiction affects. Twenty-one years later, he’s still sober, and he’s honest about what that really takes.

We go beyond sobriety and into mental health: how unguarded thoughts can undo progress, why vulnerability is a daily practice, and how “time equals love” reframed his role as a partner and father. Bradley shares the story he rarely tells—a daughter he didn’t know for two years, a preacher father who spent everything to find him, and the unbearable loss that followed just as recovery began. He also walks us through a home invasion in Seattle, a split-second self-defense decision, and the legal and emotional aftermath that could have sent him back to using. Instead, he doubled down on healing.

Along the way, we talk parenting, family court, and the skills we owe our kids: independence, discernment, and the courage to leave harm. We unpack jealousy, betrayal, and the quiet ways fear of investment destroys connection. This is a raw, grounded look at recovery, grief, and accountability—built on friendship, the power of showing up, and the belief that presence is the only proof of love.

If this conversation moved you, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs it. Your words can help others find the courage to keep going.

I can't find the feeling that comes to mind when listening to this for the first time. But I will find the words for this one day. A

Music by Quie

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Thank you so much for taking the time out of your important life to listen, It means the world to me.

#HangingWithHumans #Podcast #HWHP

In honor of those who served our country. During times of peace and war. Those who gave the supreme sacrifice, Those still missing and those who came home both whole and broken.

In honor of those still fighting everyday to keep their head above water.

Episode 24: "Wordly things"

Loddie, 29

Atlanta, Ga

In this conversation with Loddie, we explore the winding path that led him from aspiring photographer to Atlanta's up-and-coming custom grill maker.

He takes us through the pivotal moments that shaped his journey – from spending his last $400 on a Canon camera, which he used during his filming with Lil Baby.

The conversation dives deep into the cultural contrasts Loddie experienced growing up between Atlanta's predominantly Black communities and being "the only two Black kids in school" in Frisco, Texas. These experiences didn't just shape his worldview; they equipped him with the versatility to connect with people from all backgrounds – a skill that's proven invaluable throughout his entrepreneurial journey.

What stands out most is Loddie's powerful perspective on personal growth. From learning critical lessons through his brothers' life choices to embracing spiritual practices that transformed his approach to business and relationships, his evolution represents the beautiful intersection of craft, mindfulness, and authenticity. When he shares, "If you let yourself get caught up in worldly things, you won't escape the Matrix," you can feel the wisdom earned through genuine experience.
(Words that I will truly never forget, and will come back to)

This episode is about recognizing opportunity in everyday encounters, finding purpose through craft, and the remarkable growth that happens when you remain open to life's unexpected paths.

Whether you're an aspiring creative, entrepreneur, or simply someone navigating your own path, Loddie's journey offers valuable insights on adaptability, authenticity, and the courage to follow your unique vision.

Shout out to the new homie Loddie!

https://www.instagram.com/yungloddie/

Music by Quie

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Thank you so much for taking the time out of your important life to listen, It means the world to me.

#HangingWithHumans #Podcast #HWHP

In honor of those who served our country. During times of peace and war. Those who gave the supreme sacrifice, Those still missing and those who came home both whole and broken.

In honor of those still fighting everyday to keep their head above water.

Episode 26: “Modern Day Robin Hood”

Jason Wheeler, 47

San Bernardino, CA • Green River, UT • Denver, CO • Pikes Peak, CO

What started as casual conversation on a cross-country trip quickly revealed something bigger: two strangers headed to Los Angeles to visit their sisters and see Kendrick Lamar & SZA. That chance meeting turned into an unlikely friendship—and a story worth telling.

Jason’s early life began in Indianapolis’ Haughville neighborhood, shadowed by family tragedy before he was even born. Despite earning multiple basketball scholarships, his energy gravitated toward hustling more than academics. After a run as a successful mortgage broker, he plunged into the “scam game”—a decision that would catch up with him later.

At 40, Jason faced his first prison sentence. Six months in solitary confinement during COVID forced him into a brutal kind of introspection. As he puts it: “Prison is a young man’s sport.” That wake-up call shifted his focus to building something real.

Today, Jason manages 42 Airbnb properties nationwide, with a goal of 100 by 2026. His philosophy—everything happens for a reason—drives both his business and his outlook on life.

Part three of our conversation unfolded at 6am in Colorado, recording while searching for a runaway horse named Conway (after Conway the Machine).

From the streets of Cali to the quiet of Colorado, Jason’s journey is a testament to transformation, resilience, and the strange ways paths cross when you stay open.

Thank you Jason, for sparing time from your extremely busy life, to come slow down for a bit. & making the first flight out to my new spot. Thus becoming the first recurring guest on the podcast. Part 4/5 are still ahead.

To follow Jason’s adventures LIVE: https://www.instagram.com/jason.wheeler.297?igsh=a3A4bjAzMmlmdHdj

& Shoutout to Quality Control Music 🎼

#LongLiveYoungSlo-Be #RipBris

Music by Quie

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Thank you so much for taking the time out of your important life to listen, It means the world to me.

#HangingWithHumans #Podcast #HWHP

In honor of those who served our country. During times of peace and war. Those who gave the supreme sacrifice, Those still missing and those who came home both whole and broken.

In honor of those still fighting everyday to keep their head above water.

Episode 29: "How to Heal a Broken System"

Alejandro Soto, 32

Pikes Peak, Co

What started as a pre interview: became the podcast itself.

From the streets of Sinaloa to the cells of Colorado's prison system, Alejandro's life story reads like a harrowing thriller – except every word is painfully true. Arriving in America at age 11 without knowing how to read or write in any language, he found himself navigating a school system that placed him in kindergarten classes as a pre-teen, setting the stage for years of misunderstanding and marginalization.

The true nightmare began when, at just 16 years old, Alejandro was framed for attempted murder and thrown into adult county jail. Despite eventually being cleared when the actual perpetrator confessed, the justice system continued to punish him. Years later, a vindictive employer would orchestrate another setup, resulting in nine years of imprisonment on drug charges – even though court transcripts explicitly stated he was cleared.

What elevates Alejandro's narrative beyond a tale of injustice is his remarkable spiritual transformation. Within prison walls, he educated himself, earned his GED, and began a profound journey of self-discovery. Cannabis emerged as his unexpected healing tool, helping him process trauma and eventually even enabling him to help family members overcome addiction and negative spiritual forces.

Now focused on creating stability for his young son, Alejandro speaks with striking clarity about the distinction between opposing government systems and challenging those who govern unjustly. His insights into America's "mingle system" of justice – where cases are decided over coffee between judges and prosecutors rather than through evidence – offer a sobering look at institutional failures that continue to impact countless lives.

Have you ever wondered what happens when the system gets it wrong? Alejandro's story will challenge everything you thought you knew about justice in America while demonstrating the extraordinary resilience of the human spirit when faced with seemingly insurmountable odds.

If anyone is interested in taking his case, feel free to reach out. Thank you very much for lending me your time Alejandro.

-------

I've been humbled by the last few conversations had. I learned a whole bunch. I hope we can all find it in us to try and understand, instead of judge. To always ask questions, and continue to seek answers. There is much more outside of those 4 walls. so just be kind. <3 You write your story.

As season 3 crawls its way towards the end. With a few episodes left to go. Winter is coming, and I believe a short break is in on the horizon, then a whole revamp of many aspects of the podcast. Beautiful changes on the way.

Currently letting motherearth heal me.

Music by Quie

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Contact & Info:

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Video Podcast :

https://www.YouTube.com/@hangingwithhumans

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Special Thanks:

Thank you so much for taking the time out of your important life to listen, It means the world to me.

#HangingWithHumans #Podcast #HWHP

In honor of those who served our country. During times of peace and war. Those who gave the supreme sacrifice, Those still missing and those who came home both whole and broken.

In honor of those still fighting everyday to keep their head above water.

Episode 28: "The story of Jeremiah & Kimber"

Jeremiah Lowrie, 44

Helena, Mt

What happens when the systems designed to protect children fail? In this raw and unfiltered conversation, I welcome Jeremiah, a father locked in a years-long custody battle that exposes troubling flaws in our family court system.

Jeremiah shares his journey as a dedicated father to eight-year-old Kimber, describing how he went from being the family's primary caregiver to fighting for the right to protect his daughter. The love between father and daughter radiates throughout their story—

Jeremiah recounts how his attempts to report alleged abuse led not to investigation, but to his own persecution. Through it all, Jeremiah maintains that the courts have never allowed him to speak his truth.

The conversation explores how initial court filings create immediate advantages, how allegations can be weaponized, and how those without financial resources or legal knowledge are particularly vulnerable.

The mental health toll becomes painfully evident as Jeremiah describes the support mechanisms that keep him functioning through this ordeal. His powerful closing advice to others facing similar battles—"Hold the line"—serves as both rallying cry and survival strategy.

This episode isn't just one man's story; it's a window into how custody battles can devastate families and a call for greater accountability in a system where children's wellbeing should always come first. Listen, share, and join the conversation about how we can better protect our most vulnerable.

Jeremiah wanted to dedicate this episode to Danielle Moore.

https://www.ktvh.com/news/suspect-identified-in-downtown-helena-officer-involved-shooting

Music by Quie

Support the show

Contact & Info:

www.hangingwithhumans.com

https://poplme.co/hash/P5oM9JFj/1/dash

Support the Podcast:

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Video Podcast :

https://www.YouTube.com/@hangingwithhumans

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Special Thanks:

Thank you so much for taking the time out of your important life to listen, It means the world to me.

#HangingWithHumans #Podcast #HWHP

In honor of those who served our country. During times of peace and war. Those who gave the supreme sacrifice, Those still missing and those who came home both whole and broken.

In honor of those still fighting everyday to keep their head above water.

My Pre-Interview Process

A day before—sometimes the day of—the podcast, I carve out several hours to sit with my guest in complete intimacy. No cameras, no microphones, just my notebook and two humans sharing a space. With nothing but curiosity and a pen, I guide my guest through their story, capturing the raw details that will become our roadmap. We explore the emotional landscape, identify the moments that changed everything, and uncover the universal truths hidden within their personal journey.

Some of the most profound conversations of my life have emerged from these sessions. There's something sacred about this process to me—the trust a human places in me to handle their story with care, the vulnerability required to excavate painful memories, the honor of witnessing someone's truth unfold in real time.

I'm endlessly grateful for the souls that let me capture their stories.

Decade-Long Fight for Freedom

What happens when the system designed to protect us becomes the very thing that destroys us?

Thomas Egbert was 21 years old—a certified mechanic with no criminal history and everything to live for—when he was sentenced to 20 years for a crime he didn't commit. While the actual shooter walked away with a six-year plea deal and surviving three. Thomas found himself facing two decades in maximum security hell.

For seven brutal years, he navigated the razor's edge of a level-four prison yard. Racial riots. Daily violence. The systematic stripping away of hope. All while his young children grew up without their father.

But Thomas refused to surrender.

In the darkest corners of that concrete tomb, he found unlikely mentors—lifers who pointed him toward the prison law library with words that would change everything: "Nobody's going to get you out of here but yourself."

For years, Thomas became his own lawyer, studying case law by day and dodging violence by night. Appeal after appeal, motion after motion, until finally—after serving over ten years for someone else's crime—his conviction was overturned.

But perhaps the most remarkable twist was yet to come. While Thomas fought for his freedom, his first love discovered his name while working as a child support enforcement officer. She wrote. She waited. She believed. Today, they're building the life that was stolen from them.

Have you ever wondered how someone survives losing everything unjustly and still finds the strength to rebuild?

Listen to this raw, unflinching journey through our broken justice system—and proof that even in our darkest moments, hope can find a way to survive.

Music by Quie

Support the show

Contact & Info:

www.hangingwithhumans.com

https://poplme.co/hash/P5oM9JFj/1/dash

Support the Podcast:

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Video Podcast :

https://www.YouTube.com/@hangingwithhumans

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Special Thanks:

Thank you so much for taking the time out of your important life to listen, It means the world to me.

#HangingWithHumans #Podcast #HWHP

In honor of those who served our country. During times of peace and war. Those who gave the supreme sacrifice, Those still missing and those who came home both whole and broken.

In honor of those still fighting everyday to keep their head above water.

Episode 27: "Second Chances"

Thomas Egbert, 55

Helena, MT

What happens when your entire life is ripped away by a justice system that fails you? Tom's story offers a raw look at resilience in the face of catastrophic injustice.

At just 21 years old, Tom watched his promising career as a lead auto technician crumble when he was wrongfully convicted and sentenced to 20 years in prison for a crime committed by someone else. Despite the shooter receiving only a six-year sentence (and serving just three), Tom faced the devastating reality that his life as he knew it was over. Knowing he was innocent, Tom made the difficult decision to fight his case. This is his story..

Behind prison walls, Tom navigated a brutal environment defined by racial segregation, violence, and a complete absence of rehabilitation. Yet in this darkness, he found unexpected mentorship from an Aryan Brotherhood member with legal expertise who gave him crucial advice: "Ain't nobody going to get you out of this shit but you." Taking this to heart, Tom taught himself the law, filing appeals and motions while working for mere cents per hour in the prison kitchen.

The story takes a remarkable turn when Tom's childhood sweetheart discovers him through a letter crossing her desk at the child support enforcement office. After reading his case transcripts and recognizing the miscarriage of justice, she stands by him throughout his remaining sentence, becoming his anchor to the outside world.

Tom's mechanical genius — becomes his salvation. From rebuilding a 1967 Camaro as a youth to his current work restoring vehicles and equipment, Tom's ability to fix broken things serves as both livelihood and metaphor for his own life journey.

Now rebuilding his life day by day, Tom faces the ongoing challenge of employment discrimination due to his record, while fighting for stability and trying to create a meaningful future with his wife—whose family has disowned her for choosing to be with him. This is that for real love.<3

Have you ever considered how easily your life could be derailed by a flawed system? Listen to Tom's powerful testimony of perseverance, and discover what it truly means to rebuild a life from the ground up.

There was a moment in the conversation, when Tom is explaining what was going through his young fragile mind. When sitting in his cell waiting and preparing for violence to erupt as soon as his cell door opens.

I had chills running through me, as I listened to this story of a young man doing what had to be done in order to survive the next years of his adult life.

After the conversation, Tom said to me.

“Rj.. I just want to let you know, I used to be involved in a different life that I am no longer a part of. I was institutionalized at a young age, I saw and did things I never thought I would. A lot was taken from me that I will never get back. I’ve really never told my story to anyone. That isn’t something you do. When I was involved in the things I was involved in. Since I’ve been released out into society, I have not found many people that have been kind to me, except you brother. & for you… I don’t care about who sees it, as long as it helps you and what you’re doing.”

Thank you Tom, for a moment and conversation I will never forget.

Music by Quie

Support the show

Contact & Info:

www.hangingwithhumans.com

https://poplme.co/hash/P5oM9JFj/1/dash

Support the Podcast:

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Video Podcast :

https://www.YouTube.com/@hangingwithhumans

https://rumble.com/c/c-2507620

Special Thanks:

Thank you so much for taking the time out of your important life to listen, It means the world to me.

#HangingWithHumans #Podcast #HWHP

In honor of those who served our country. During times of peace and war. Those who gave the supreme sacrifice, Those still missing and those who came home both whole and broken.

In honor of those still fighting everyday to keep their head above water.