Episode #111 – Gil Gillenwater: Hope, Borders & Helping Without Handouts

In this episode, I sit down with Gil Gillenwater — author, traveler, and humanitarian — to talk about his book Hope On The Border and the life experiences that led him to write it. Gil has spent years working in Mexico and along the U.S.–Mexico border, where he's seen firsthand what meaningful help actually looks like.

We talk about service that empowers instead of enables, the realities of cross-border work, and the personal cost of choosing to show up in difficult places. Gil also shares stories of intense and sometimes scary travel encounters that shaped his worldview and reinforced why hope isn't passive — it's practiced.

In this episode, we talk about:

· What inspired Hope On The Border and the stories behind it

· Working in Mexico and navigating cultural, emotional, and logistical challenges

· Helping people without taking away their dignity or self-reliance

· Scary and unpredictable moments while traveling — and what they taught him

· Why real hope shows up through presence, not handouts

About Gil Gillenwater

Gil works with communities in Mexico through Rancho Feliz, focusing on connection, empowerment, and long-term impact rather than quick fixes. His approach centers on listening first and serving in ways that respect people's humanity.

Learn more about Gil and his work here:
👉 https://ranchofeliz.com/team/gil-gillenwater/

🎙️ Were You Still Talking? is hosted by Joel Albrecht – actor, content creator, and curious conversationalist. New episodes drop regularly wherever you get your podcasts.

Want to be a guest on Were You Still Talking?? Send Joel Albrecht a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17479536339826768613f136d

Music for all episodes by Jon Griffin.

My YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCugOLERePPuD4nwtZO-Zwnw?view_as=subscriber

My Instagram: @joelyshmoley

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/wereyoustilltalking/

Episode #110 – Danny Johnson: Clean Comedy, Big Faces & Long Roads

In this episode, I sit down with Danny Johnson, a stand-up comic who's been making people laugh for over 15 years without having to get dirty to do it. Danny's style is clean, relatable, and packed with those now-famous facial expressions that somehow say more than the punchlines.

We talk about life on the road, how his comedy has evolved, and what it's like building a career that works just as well in comedy clubs as it does at corporate events and churches. Danny shares stories from performing alongside some absolute legends, filming comedy specials, and what it takes to stay funny while staying yourself.

We also touch on:

· Writing comedy that stays fresh (and clean)

· Performing everywhere from cruise ships to packed theaters

· His wildly popular Dry Bar Comedy special and newer releases

· Life as a local comedy fixture in North Florida

· Story about a celebrity doing a very nice thing

Danny's easygoing, quick-witted, and genuinely funny — this episode feels more like hanging out than an interview.

https://youtu.be/3aZgNtk66Q8?si=CE-sBhQrFAtAl21P

🎙️ Were You Still Talking? is hosted by Joel Albrecht – actor, content creator, and curious conversationalist. New episodes drop regularly wherever you get your podcasts.

Want to be a guest on Were You Still Talking?? Send Joel Albrecht a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17479536339826768613f136d

Music for all episodes by Jon Griffin.

My YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCugOLERePPuD4nwtZO-Zwnw?view_as=subscriber

My Instagram: @joelyshmoley

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/wereyoustilltalking/

Episode #108 – Amy Lenius: Empowerment, Awareness & Next Level Living

In this episode, I'm joined by Amy Lenius of Next Level University — a coach and mentor dedicated to helping people step into greater confidence, clarity, and purpose. We dive into what empowerment really looks like, why self-awareness is foundational to growth, and how working with the right partners can accelerate transformation.

Amy shares insights from her work guiding clients through group coaching, the mindset shifts that open up real possibility, and the leadership practices that help people live—and lead—at their very best.

In this episode we discuss:

· Empowering others: what it truly means to support growth, not just motivate

· Working with partners & teams: the value of collaboration, shared vision, and accountability

· Importance of self-awareness: how understanding yourself creates freedom and choice

· Holistic healing: what it is and why it matters

· Mindset shifts that matter: habits, beliefs, and practices that support sustainable personal and professional change

· Balancing ambition with authenticity: why growth and groundedness go hand in hand

About Amy & Next Level University

Amy Lenius is a coach, facilitator, and partner at Next Level University, where she helps individuals and groups connect to their purpose, build clarity around goals, and break through internal barriers holding them back. Her approach blends practical strategy with emotional intelligence and accountability.

Learn more about her group coaching and programs here:
👉 https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/group-coaching/

Why you'll want to listen

This episode is a great listen for anyone who wants to better understand themselves, build stronger relationships, and step into leadership—whether in business, life, or community. Amy brings heart, clarity, and tools you can start using now.

🎙️ Were You Still Talking? is hosted by Joel Albrecht – actor, content creator, and curious conversationalist. New episodes drop regularly wherever you get your podcasts.

Want to be a guest on Were You Still Talking?? Send Joel Albrecht a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17479536339826768613f136d

Music for all episodes by Jon Griffin.

My YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCugOLERePPuD4nwtZO-Zwnw?view_as=subscriber

My Instagram: @joelyshmoley

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/wereyoustilltalking/