Other People's Shoes

Loathing...The Duke vs. UNC rivalry is the sports equivalent of Loathing from Wicked—a relationship built on deep-seated animosity, unwavering contempt, and just a hint of begrudging respect. Much like Elphaba and Glinda’s cutting yet strangely harmonious duet, the Tar Heels and Blue Devils are forever intertwined, each defining the other through decades of battles on the hardwood. Every season, the Cameron Crazies' sneers and the Dean Dome’s roars echo the song’s theatrical vitriol—"Every little trait, however small, makes my very flesh begin to crawl!"—a sentiment any UNC fan can relate to when spotting Duke’s blue and white on the court. My guest today is Andy Bagwell. Andy Bagwell, co-author of Duke Sucks: A Completely Even-Handed, Unbiased Investigation into the Most Evil Team on Planet Earth, captured this dynamic perfectly, dissecting Duke’s infamous flopping, smug superiority, and, of course, their uncanny ability to get every foul call.But in true Other People’s Shoes fashion, what happens if we step

Which would you rather indulge in, lemons or tamales? I feel like it's a pretty easy choice, right? Life has a way of throwing challenges at us when we least expect it. Sometimes, it feels like all we have are lemons—sour, bitter, and hard to swallow. But what if, instead of making lemonade, we made something heartier, something rich with culture, love, and perseverance—like tamales? In this episode, I sit down with Leslie Alvarez, a woman whose life is a testament to resilience, hustle, and the power of staying true to oneself. From a young age, Leslie learned the value of hard work and determination. Whether it was selling homemade oatmeal cookies to buy a bike or making tamales to support her family, she embraced the philosophy: “Where there is a will, there is always a way.” This mantra has carried her through some of life’s toughest moments. Leslie’s journey is one of incredible highs and devastating lows—financial struggles, relationship breakdowns, health crises, and career setbacks. She has faced them

In this episode of Other People's Shoes, we take an X-Ray look into the life and work of Mary Beth Schrudder, a transformational life coach with expertise in the Law of Attraction, relationship coaching, addiction recovery, and spiritual transformation.Mary Beth’s journey has been anything but easy. After years in the corporate world, balancing life as a single mom while battling addictions to alcohol, food, and toxic relationships, she realized something had to change. Traditional 12-step recovery programs didn’t work for her, so she set out on a path of self-discovery, researching alternative and spiritual recovery methods that truly transformed her life.Now, as a certified coach, she helps others break free from limiting beliefs and destructive cycles by applying the correct principles of the Law of Attraction—going beyond just “positive thinking” to become the deliberate creators of their own lives truly.In our conversation, Mary Beth shared:

In this heartfelt episode of Other People's Shoes, I sit down with my good friend Mike Oppenheim from the podcast Coffin Talk. Mike has become a true friend in this podcasting space, and today he shares a deeply personal journey about anger, grief, and missing his son. He opens up about the invisible weight he carries—how, on the outside, you might not see the pain etched into his heart, but it's always there, shaping his days. Mike's story is a raw, emotional exploration of love, loss, and the resilience it takes to move forward. Through our conversation, we unpack the layers of his grief, understanding how it intertwines with hope and the belief in eventual reunion. As part of this episode, I wrote a poem titled Tomorrow, inspired by Mike's experience. It captures the enduring love of a father for his son, the ache of absence, and the unwavering hope for a reunion. Join me as I try on Mike's shoes.TomorrowTomorrow, I'll think of you just like today,With echoes of laughter that never fade away.Your name is c

Romeo, Romeo! Wherefore Art Thou? - A playful nod to Shakespeare sets the stage for a conversation about love, heartbreak, and the pursuit of healthy relationships. What comes to mind when you think of Valentine's Day? With Valentine's Day on the horizon, we're diving into the hilariously relatable world of modern dating. In this Other People’s Shoes episode, my guest Charity Sinclair joins me to share insights from her witty memoir, We're All Dating The Same Guy: Laughs, Lessons, and Love After Dating a Narcissist. 

Buffalos have a unique instinct when facing storms—they don’t run away like other animals; instead, they charge directly into the storm. By doing this, they minimize their time in harsh conditions and emerge stronger on the other side. In life, we are constantly faced with challenges, and just like the buffalo, we have a choice: we can run from adversity and prolong our struggles, or we can face difficulties head-on, knowing that growth lies beyond the storm. Jill Ogle, a guest on Other People's Shoes, shares this powerful message of transformation, encouraging others to embrace life’s storms rather than run from them. Like the buffalo running into the storm, you have the power to transform your current reality into one of harmony and success. We believe in the power of synchronicity and know that you have found us for a reason. When the student is ready, the teacher appears, and your time for transformation is now. Step into the storm with courage, embrace all that you are, and watch as you emerge stronger t

Welcome to a very special episode of Other People’s Shoes! Today, we’re taking a moment to celebrate six incredible years of podcasting, over 300 episodes, and countless stories that have inspired, challenged, and encouraged us all. Thank you for walking alongside me on this journey—whether you’ve been here since day one or just laced up your shoes to join the adventure.Reflecting on the JourneyOver the last six years, Other People’s Shoes has become more than just a podcast; it’s become a community. This milestone wouldn’t be possible without the support of so many amazing people:My family — To my wife, Elizabeth, and our family, thank you for your endless encouragement and love. You’ve been my rock and biggest cheerleader.Garrett — My all-in executive producer, your unwavering support and guidance have been invaluable. Thank you for keeping the wheels turning behind the scenes.Christine, my mother-in-law — Your love and encouragement have been a steady source of strength. Thank you for believing in me and t

Imagine this for a moment: it’s Saturday afternoon. The week has been long, and you’ve finally carved out some time for yourself. You’re in your favorite cozy spot in the living room—maybe it’s the couch that perfectly hugs you or that recliner that’s seen better days but feels just right. You’ve got the TV on, ready to catch up on your favorite show, and for a moment, everything feels perfect.

What comes to mind when you hear the word "yoga"? To be candid, my first thought is yoga pants—and pain. Okay, maybe sweat and a little smelliness, too.

In this episode of Other People’s Shoes, we sit down with LT. COL. Jason G. Pike is a veteran with over 31 years of military service. Continuing our X-Ray season’s theme of seeing beyond the surface, Jason shares insights into the art and science of military camouflage—from blending into environments to outsmarting advanced sensors—and its role in survival and strategy. Jason also opens up about his personal journey, chronicled in his memoir, A Soldier Against All Odds. Despite being diagnosed with a learning disability and bone disease as a child, he defied expectations to achieve the rank of lieutenant colonel. His story of perseverance, determination, and resilience will inspire you to uncover your hidden strength and face challenges head-on. Join me as I try on Jason's shoes. 

Welcome to Season 19 of Other People's Shoes titled "X-Ray." 

What’s the greatest Christmas gift you’ve ever received? For many, it might have been a pony or a horse—a dream for countless children. For our guest Kim Tschirret, founder of Hope Reins in Raleigh, horses were more than a gift; they were a lifeline. Growing up in a home marked by her father’s alcoholism and a lack of unconditional love, Kim found solace and safety in her horse. While her father prioritized performance and horse shows, Kim longed for a deeper bond—a relationship that planted the seeds for Hope Reins. Today, Hope Reins is a ministry that "Inspires True Hope and Real Healing," offering a place where children and families can encounter Jesus, who meets them in their brokenness and brings restoration. For Kim, the journey of founding Hope Reins has brought her personal healing and a profound experience of God’s love. This growing community of grace is making a tangible impact across the Triangle and beyond, providing a space where love, healing, and transformation come to life. Saddle up! Join me

What is your favorite Christmas Movie? One of my favorites has to be "It's A Wonderful Life". In *It's a Wonderful Life*, George Bailey discovers his worth and the profound impact of his life on others. Guided by an angel, he sees a world without his influence, realizing how deeply his choices matter. Similarly, *Homecoming*, the 18th season of *Other People’s Shoes*, explores returning to places of safety and belonging, reminding us of the unseen value of our lives and connections. This idea resonates with John Graham and the Good Samaritan Home, a non-profit that has been offering ex-offenders housing and support since 2001. From one remodeled house to 17 homes in Dayton, Ohio, they’ve helped over 1,000 people rebuild their lives through faith and kindness. Just as George learns that brokenness can lead to redemption, the Good Samaritan Home shows that broken lives, like broken houses, can be restored. Join me as I walk in John Graham’s boots.

Who do you need a hug from today? Take a moment and read that sentence again: *Who do you need a hug from today?* Now, think carefully—who was the first person that came to mind? Say their name out loud. Chances are, it’s someone you hold close to your heart, someone who means the world to you. It’s probably not someone you hold resentment or disdain toward, is it? Hugs, after all, symbolize connection, care, and a shared moment of vulnerability. My guest today is Jennifer Sakata, someone who understands the deep power of grace in everyday life. Jennifer invites you and me to step into a place she calls "the corner of real grace for real life." It’s a neighborhood where forgiveness, belonging, empowerment, and faith aren’t just concepts—they’re alive and thriving.  Join me as we lace up Jennifer’s shoes and walk alongside her story. Let’s explore how grace can reshape our lives, relationships, and even the way we think about who we need a hug from today.

Imagine playing make-believe as a pirate, hunting for buried treasure armed only with a map and sheer determination. My guest today is Matthew Lesko—the energetic, colorful advocate you know, famous for his bold suits covered in question marks. Together, we uncover the hidden treasure of government resources—vast, untapped opportunities that most people don’t even realize exist. Lesko shares his vision of a thriving community where people use these resources to start businesses, pay for education, cover medical expenses, and more. His passion and deep knowledge turn the intimidating maze of bureaucracy into an exciting adventure, inspiring us all to claim our share of the treasure and build stronger, empowered communities. Join me as I walk in Matthew’s shoes.

What would your life look like if you could take control of your happiness and choose joy daily? My guest today, Dannie De Novo, has explored this question and shares her journey in her book, *Get in a Good Mood & Stay There.* After battling a deep spiritual depression and facing numerous setbacks, Dannie refused to let life happen to her. Instead, she developed a systematic approach to reclaim her mindset, overcome adversity, and design the fulfilling life she had always envisioned. This book is more than a guide; it’s a personal tour through the exercises and insights that transformed her attitude and opened the door to lasting happiness. If happiness feels like a moving target, perhaps it’s time to step into these shoes—are you ready? Join me as I walk in Dannie's shoes. 

Have you ever allowed yourself to dream? Picture this: a genie appears, offering you three wishes. But there are conditions—no asking for love, no bringing back the dead, and no wishing for more wishes. It makes you wonder. What three things would you choose if you had three chances to get something special into your life? Now and then, life gives us moments that feel like a wish fulfilled—an experience so surreal, it’s like magic. For me, that moment came on November 11, 2023, at the North Carolina vs. Duke football game. The night was alive with 50,500 fans packed into Kenan Stadium in Chapel Hill. The stands were a sea of Carolina blue, buzzing with excitement as the Tar Heels and Blue Devils went head-to-head in one of the fiercest rivalries in college sports. The game had all the intensity of a dream: heart-stopping plays, tense moments, and nail-biting suspense. And just when it seemed like the Tar Heels' hopes might fade, Noah Burnette, today’s guest, stepped up as time expired, lining up for a 42-yard

When was the last time you remodeled a room? My guest today is Dr. Merry C. Linn PhD. Imagine you're remodeling a room in your house—a space where old paint, cluttered shelves, and outdated furniture no longer feel like "you." The process begins by stripping away layers, revealing what lies beneath them. Similarly, in life, finding our true selves isn't just about adding layers; it's about "unbecoming" what we believed we had to be to feel accepted and loved, and "rebecoming" who we truly are, as Dr. Merry C. Lin explores in her transformative book. Just as a room remodel requires intentional effort to create a space that reflects our true taste and purpose, rebecoming our essential, God-given selves requires peeling back the fear-driven habits and self-protection mechanisms that keep us from authentic joy and resilience. Understanding our motivations, identifying patterns rooted in fear, and building resilience parallels the careful choice of new paint, furniture, and décor that fit the life we want to live.