Heard Podcast
53 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 5 years ago - ★★★★★ - 27 ratingsOpen and honest, this weekly podcast is aimed at amplifying stories of what it means to be human and genuinely heard. It features host Benjamin Mathes, Urban Confessional Founder and speaker, who is joined by new guests each episode to explore issues and current events intersecting with the topic of listening and being heard.
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Episodes
Michael Verde: Expanding DEATH OF A SALESMAN Live!
February 23, 2019 23:00 - 2 hours - 93.1 MBIn this live event, world renowned "reader", Michael Verde uses one of the greatest pieces of American literature to change the way we read, relate to the written word, and expand what is possible for an artist. Somewhere between brain candy and a soul massage, this will inspire you and open your eyes to see what, perhaps, has been there all along.
Seeing Miracles with Dina Shihabi | Episode 214
October 09, 2018 09:00 - 1 hour - 61.7 MBIn this episode, Benjamin sits down with actress, and star of the new Amazon Original series, "Jack Ryan", Dina Shihabi to discuss diversity, equality, and the miracle of being alive. A unique voice in difficult times, Dina offers insight into what it means to know yourself, love those around you, and bask in the miracle of life.
On Life, Love, and Dating in 2018 with Ana Lorena Sanchez | Episode 213
September 25, 2018 09:00 - 1 hour - 44.3 MBIn this episode, Benjamin sits down with actress and cultural influencer, Ana Lorena Sanchez to discuss what life, love, and dating looks like in 2018. The conversation goes to some unexpected places as Ana Lorena opens up about some personal things, and a surprise guest jumps in to reveal something previously unknown about the host. You do not want to miss this podcast!
How to Listen...No, Really, Here's How | Episode 212
September 11, 2018 09:00 - 44 minutes - 30.4 MBIn 2012, host, Benjamin Mathes created Urban Confessional: a Free Listening Movement. Since then, the movement has grown to over 80 countries with thousands of volunteers holding signs that say, "Free Listening". In this episode, Benjamin uncovers the secrets to deep listening. Often referred to as a "soft skill", this podcast will show you why listening is actually a "survival skill". Take notes and listen carefully, there's a lot of info in this episode!
The Power of Myth and Metaphor with Michael Verde | Episode 211
August 28, 2018 09:00 - 1 hour - 50.7 MBIn this episode, one of last season most popular guest, Michael Verde, returns to dive deep into the profound effects myths and metaphors have on our lives, literature, and cultural understanding. A self-proclaimed "Reader", Michael is capable of revealing hidden truths embedded into the written word. Pulling from Biblical scripture and classic American Literature, he will open the aperture of what is possible when we allow ourselves to see more, understand more, and read in a new way.
Rap, Religion, and Racism with Agape Dave | Episode 210
August 14, 2018 09:00 - 1 hour - 49.6 MBIn this episode, Benjamin sits down with self described "White, Lutheran, Rapper" and cultural innovator, Agape Dave. Join them as they wade through the muddy waters of cultural appropriation, racism, hiphop, Jesus, and how social anxiety may be cause of modern segregation. In this episode, Agape Dave will give you a 5 step process that will show you how to grow in your understanding of different cultures, discuss the nuances of Whiteness, and shed light on the very things that will bring us...
Getting Fit with Dr. Crossfit | Episode 209
July 31, 2018 09:00 - 1 hour - 51.8 MBIn this episode, Benjamin sits down with Kansas State University professor, Dr. Katie Heinrich to discuss her studies on one of the worlds leading workout programs, CrossFit. She offers a unique perspective one the high intensity workouts and dives into nutrition, sports psychology, and why Crossfit isn't exactly what you think it is. Whether you work out or not, you'll want to know the information she has to share!
The Return is in the Turn with Cody Kearsley | 208
July 17, 2018 09:00 - 58 minutes - 40.4 MBJoin Benjamin as he chats with actor and theatre artist, Cody Kearsley. Currently starring as Moose Mason on Netflix's Riverdale, Cody opens up about his sobriety, his questions about life and spirituality, and what it means to be an artist. In this podcast, we are reminded of the power of vulnerability, the universal message behind personal truths, and the difficult nature of experiencing the wholeness of life.
It Is Not Over Yet with Jose Lopez | Episode 207
July 03, 2018 09:00 - 1 hour - 44.8 MBAfter suffering a near death experience in 2018, actor and stunt-man, Jose Lopez sits down with Benjamin to discuss what it really means to be alive. His insights on life, death, and leaving a legacy will inspire you and make you think. In this episode, Jose shares the depths of his personal and physical struggle, the miracles of science that kept him alive, and the importance of the community that lifted him up. You do not want to miss this interview.
The Artful Way with Daniel Sharman | Episode 206
June 19, 2018 09:00 - 1 hour - 58.2 MBIn this episode, Benjamin sits down with actor Daniel Sharman to discuss life, giving, and what it means to be an artist in a modern time. From Teen Wolf, Fear the Walking Dead, The Immortals, The Originals, and the upcoming Netflix series, Medici, Daniel is an actor know across the world for his talent, his warmth, and his deep thinking…oh, and his over 4 million followers on social media. In this conversation, Daniel gets personal and reveals things he’s never spoken of in his many publi...
Harnessing Hollywood with Ivan Orlic | Episode 205
June 05, 2018 09:00 - 1 hour - 56.4 MBImprov Comedy, Metaphysics, and film production. Nothing is off limits in this episode as Benjamin chats with Hollywood producer, scientist, and published author, Ivan Orlic. The episodes begins with an invaluable lesson on how to approach famous people on the streets, and quickly moves into personal revelations about life, love and the art of making movies.
From Team Captain, to State Senator: Leading at all levels with Burt Jones | Episode 204
May 22, 2018 09:00 - 1 hour - 50.9 MBIn this episode, Benjamin chats with 3 time Republican Georgia State Senator, Burt Jones. From the University of Georgia football team to the state government, Burt opens up about what it takes to win an election, run a business, and raise a family in today’s world. He also reveals exactly what it’s like to disagree with other members of the state Senate, and how we can all work together to make the world a better place. Oh—and he’s met President Trump many times. Wanna know what that wa...
Creating Smiles with the King of Pops with Nick Carse | Episode 203
May 08, 2018 18:39 - 55 minutes - 38 MBIn this episode, Benjamin chats with King of Pops founder Nick Carse about life, risks, and how to create unexpected moments of happiness in the lives of people around you. In a classic deep dive, Nick talks about how he went from analyzing risk to taking risks: hint, it has something to do with the famous Harry Hand Case. He also discusses how he and the team at King of Pops have created a Farm to Pop model by extending what it means to create small batch pops are made with love in the Sou...
Life Is Alive With Catherine Fitzmaurice | Episode 202
April 24, 2018 09:00 - 1 hour - 49.4 MBIn this rare interview, Benjamin discusses the meaning of life with one of the world’s leading theatre and voice practitioners, Catherine Fitzmaurice. Together they discuss the dynamic nature of life, the beauty of death, and everything that happens in between. Catherine goes on to reveal that she is not afraid of something that tends to haunt us all, the importance of rethinking traditions, and how to make the world your peer. Throughout, there are laughs, deep breaths, and lots of truth. Y...
Living a Life Beloved with Mike Foster | Episode 201
April 10, 2018 09:00 - 59 minutes - 40.8 MBIn this episode, Benjamin sits down with speaker, author, and self-proclaimed recovering perfectionist, Mike Foster. From the very start of the episode, Mike re-frames our relationship to the difficult moments in life, and teaches us how to embrace and integrate our life journey no matter the circumstances. In fact, he will take you on a journey to discover how the very things you believe are holding you back, are the very things that give you an unfair advantage. Your story matters, and i...
Season 2 Trailer
April 03, 2018 21:35 - 50 seconds - 791 KBSeason 2 is coming on April 10th! Check out the new guests, the new interviews, and all the new insight in just ONE WEEK!
Striving for Wellness with James Kinney | Episode 137
December 19, 2017 10:00 - 55 minutes - 38 MBJames Kinney is back! It's a Christmas miracle! In this podcast, James puts forward the idea that wellness is the cornerstone of a happy and successful life, but how does perception concerning who we are, and what we want to be relate to maintaining that sense of wellness? Ben sits down with James Kinney once more, and the two dive into the importance of social currency, aligning the feedback that we get from others with our own self-perception, and what James Kinney plans to do when he runs...
Mind's Best Friend with Jeff Fink | Episode 136
December 12, 2017 10:00 - 1 hour - 43.1 MBJeff Fink has struggled with depression since he was a teenager. His battle for emotional health and functionality took him through endless medications, therapy, and finally hospitalization. However, it wasn’t until he met Earl that his life finally began to turn around. Earl has been a life long friend and an incredible support as Jeff has pushed forward. He’s also a dog. Today Ben and Jeff sit down to discuss mental health, and the incredible impact that animals can have on our well being.
Too Far Gone with Billy Vaughan | Episode 135
December 05, 2017 10:00 - 1 hour - 45.3 MBWhether its addiction, or overcoming our psychological trauma, recovery is a long and lonely road to walk. Former marine Billy Vaughan has done his best to ensure that the people who come to his organization have as much support as he can give. When he sits down to chat with Ben, the two talk about redemption and healing and how to come to terms with the individuals that some might think are too far gone.
Embracing the Awkward with Michael Verde | Episode 134
November 28, 2017 10:00 - 1 hour - 48.6 MBWe’ve all been in at least one awkward situation. Most of us think that those situations are relegated to bad small talk or a slight miscommunication between two people. However, sometimes awkward situations are more related to a deeper discomfort with an idea or concept. In his work with the elderly Michael Verde helps people confront awkwardness. He assists those experiencing dementia in creating meaningful connections with real people. The interactions can be weird and tough to stomach, b...
The Cycle of Gratitude | Episode 133
November 21, 2017 10:00 - 11 minutes - 7.84 MBWith Thanksgiving right around the corner, the time to reflect on gratitude is here. But that’s where a lot of people stop. Today Ben discusses the cycle of gratitude and how if your gratitude does not turn into giving, you’re stuck in the condition of receiving from others, while not giving back to those around you.
Listening to the Giants with Adelyn Price | Episode 132
November 14, 2017 10:00 - 1 hour - 43 MBWith age comes wisdom, and if you’re lucky, grace. Though if you’re too caught up in the pace of the everyday, it’s easy to forget that we’re only where we are today because we’ve stood on the shoulders of past giants to achieve new heights in the present. Adelyn Price has been able to see the progression of the last century. Join Benjamin and Adelyn as they discuss progress, the past, and where things are taking us tomorrow.
The Core of Life with Brad Davidson | Episode 131
November 07, 2017 10:00 - 1 hour - 41.4 MBIt’s no revelation that people are very concerned with appearances. There’s no industry that capitalizes on this concern more than the fitness industry. Brad Davidson is a fitness instructor who knows what it’s like to chase the preconceived notions of physical perfection, but he also knows what blindly chasing those ideals can cost. He’s lost parts of his hair due to stress, battled a failing thyroid, and at one point had the testosterone of an ill 85-year-old man. After a near death experi...
Clearing the Air with Adam Asher | Episode 130
October 31, 2017 09:00 - 59 minutes - 40.8 MBFirst impressions are everything. But when Adam Asher hands someone a business card he’s either met with immediate kinship or eye-rolling disdain. Adam is a conservative talk radio producer, but as much as we would like to assume things about someone based on their occupation, how we make our livelihood is only a part of who we are. Adam is driven to challenge the status quo, and the idea of what can be learned when we dig a little deeper into the people around us. Join Benjamin as he talks ...
This is Your Brain on Purpose with Dr. Earl Henslin | Episode 129
October 24, 2017 16:01 - 52 minutes - 36.3 MBDr. Earl Henslin has written 10 books and put thousands of hours into his practice of improving the mental and emotional well-being of his patients, but he’s perfectly happy to attest that most of the ideas he implements in therapy aren’t what he learned in Med-School decades ago, they’re from our constantly evolving understanding of the brain. Today Benjamin sits down with Dr. Henslin to discuss the brain, and how it’s much more than just where our passing thoughts come from. Our dreams are...
Flexing your Empathy with Edwin Rutsch | Episode 128
October 17, 2017 09:00 - 1 hour - 44.7 MBWhat is it that separates empathy and action? For some, it’s easier to remain focused on ourselves than it is to clue in to what’s going on with the folks around us. For others, we’re worried that by empathizing with others, we might somehow weaken our own ideals and perspectives. Edwin Rutsch has made it his mission in life to help teach what empathy is, and more importantly how to embrace it. Because it’s when we realize that we don’t have to abandon who we are to be with someone else, tha...
A Life UnWritten with Harrison Scott Key | Episode 127
October 10, 2017 09:00 - 1 hour - 61.1 MBIf scars are stories, Harrison Scott Key has more than enough to fill the books that he writes. Growing up in the south, he’s taken his share of licks and has come through each harrowing event with another funny story to tell. He contemplates life while washing kitchenware and feels that our uncertainty is what unities us. When Benjamin sits down to chat with Harrison, the two dive into humor, family, and many, many anecdotes. This is Harrison Scott Key.
Thoughts on Vegas with Benjamin Mathes | Episode 126
October 03, 2017 09:00 - 12 minutes - 8.81 MBFor a city that was built on a foundation of distraction, in the aftermath of evil, Las Vegas is awake. The locals waited in line for eight hours to give blood. The city has started funds and efforts to house the families of the fallen who seek to come into the city to see the ones they've lost. When Benjamin went free listening in the streets of Vegas, he talked with many people struggling to make sense of how they feel. Today we all pause to reflect on what it means to listen in times of a...
Leadership In the Eye of the Hurricane with Kendra Kinnison | Episode 125
September 26, 2017 09:00 - 1 hour - 43.5 MBWe only know how strong we are when being strong is our only choice. Kendra Kinnison has survived Hurricanes. Her most recent brush with tumultuous storms happened when Hurricane Harvey ripped through southern Texas. However, she finds her calling in helping leaders navigate personal hurricanes that can arise when we choose to make ourselves vulnerable to the responsibility of leading. When she sits down with Benjamin, the two dive into the process of how we can take the mantle of leadership...
The Reality of Reality TV with Matt Sprouse | Episode 124
September 19, 2017 09:00 - 46 minutes - 31.8 MBThey say to stick to what you know, and it seems like we do the same thing when it comes to what entertains us. We want the next big idea, while at the same time, we have a soft spot for the stories and formulas we’ve come to know and love. It’s hypocritical, but a reality of life. No one knows more about reality and television than Matt Sprouse. He’s a reality TV producer behind shows like Welcome to Myrtle Manor and Sons of Guns. In this episode he sits down with Benjamin to talk about wha...
Harnessing the Creative Economy with Benjamin Mathes | Episode 123
September 12, 2017 09:00 - 35 minutes - 24.6 MBHow do we release our need for control? It’s all too often that the hectic whims of the world seem to subject us to circumstances that we’d rather not be in. But usually, the most painful parts of those situations come from worrying about things we have no say over whatsover. In his time working with CEO’s and entrepreneurs, Benjamin has focused on two key concepts: The Career Matrix and the Creative Economy. In this episode, Benjamin unpacks these two ideas, and explores several elements th...
Healing Through Art with Damilola Apotieri | Episode 122
September 05, 2017 09:00 - 58 minutes - 39.8 MBIt’s possible to feel alone even when we’re surrounded by people, but one of the best ways to reach out and make a connection is by using art. When it seems society is spinning out of control, art can be used as a platform to pull us back together. Today Benjamin sits down with artist and activist Damilola Apotieri to discuss his belief that no matter the circumstance, where there is life, there is hope, and it’s art that can help us find it.
Feeding on Feedback with Thomas Knox | Episode 121
August 29, 2017 09:00 - 1 hour - 45.7 MBWhenever we reach out, we open ourselves up to feedback. It can be positive or negative, but the concept of feedback alone can be daunting enough to some that it shuts down our willingness to communicate. Thomas Knox is the creator of Date While You Wait, and in the intimate settings he creates with strangers he’s constantly making himself vulnerable to feedback. When Ben sits down to chat with Thomas, they discuss everything from fashion, to family, to using the feedback we get from those a...
Turning Tragedy into Triumph, discussing Charlottesville with Pearce Godwin | Episode 120
August 22, 2017 09:00 - 1 hour - 46.7 MBIn the wake of tragic events its easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of anger and confusion that almost assuredly follows. After the events of Charlottesville, it feels like tension has reached an all time high. In this episode, Ben sits down with Pearce Godwin of the Listen First Project to discuss what it’s like to listen to those who only seem to spew hate to cover up their hurt.
Standing by Our Principals by Challenging Our Perspective with Let. Gen. Jerry Boykin | Episode 119
August 15, 2017 09:00 - 1 hour - 44.8 MBWhether we agree with them or not, there are certain people who have done so much, and seen so much, that their perspective gives a palpable credence to their stories and beliefs. Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Jerry Boykin is one of those people. He has served his country with valor and dignity, but as a man of faith, he’s also had to weigh his religious beliefs against his choices on the battlefield. When he sits down with Ben, the two discuss religion, violence and reconciliation. The conversations migh...
Bleeding for the Right Reasons with Linda Mathes | Episode 118
August 08, 2017 09:00 - 1 hour - 42.4 MBTrue courage is found when we prioritize the needs of others over the needs of ourselves. When that happens, it can inspire us to do the profound and daring. For Linda Mathes, it’s pushed her into the spotlight of leadership. She serves as the CEO to one of the most highly regarded non-profits in the world, The Red Cross. When she sits down with Benjamin to chat, she sheds light on what it means to lead, and what it means lead when millions of lives are affected by your decisions.
Learning About Life from Death with Helena Walsh | Episode 117
August 01, 2017 09:00 - 1 hour - 50.9 MBIt’s tough to speak of suffering. Helena Walsh is a renowned voice coach that’s worked with actors, entrepreneurs, and anyone seeking a greater understanding of person to person communication. But one subject that often gives all of us pause is pain. Join Ben and Helena as they discuss everything from accents, to language, before digging into the need to accept pain, while being available for those going through it.
Leading through Service with Kyle Selig |Episode 116
July 25, 2017 09:00 - 1 hour - 50.5 MBWhen Kyle Selig became involved in theater, it was because he wanted to reach out to the other people around him. As Kyle and Benjamin sit down to chat, they dive in to the purpose of theater as well as the responsibilities actors have to vulnerability and responding to the needs and struggles of society. Join in and watch the line blur, as the lessons and wisdom of the stage become applicable to all of us.
Mastery and the Beginner’s Mind with Anderson Silva | Episode 115
July 18, 2017 09:00 - 58 minutes - 40.2 MBWidely regarded as one of the greatest fighters in the history of the UFC, Anderson Silva is no stranger to success. However, when he sits down to talk with Benjamin, the two dive into how moments of failure can be used to drive us to greater heights and deeper passions. For Anderson, that means venturing into a profession he’s never attempted before and figuring out how to build himself up to achieve his dream: Inspiring others to chase their own.
Keeping the Conversation Going with Joslyn DeFreece | Episode 114
July 11, 2017 09:00 - 1 hour - 53 MBIn the last 30 years, our discussions over gender and sexual identity have radically transformed. But even with all the progress that's been made, the dialogue can be awkward, difficult, and taxing despite the need for the discourse to occur. Joslyn DeFreece sits down with Ben to discuss what it's like to keep the conversation going and to remain optimistic, even when it feels like its going nowhere.
Free Listening at the Silverlake Farmers Market | Ep. 113
July 04, 2017 09:00 - 59 minutes - 41 MBIn this episode of the Heard Podcast, Ben packs up his computer and his microphone and hits up the nearby Silverlake Farmers Market to listen to anyone who has anything to say. Join Ben as he gets to know a harpist, a homeless man, and a lover of watermelon drinks while discussing everything from philosophy to musical theory to shooting your cremated ashes into space.
Turning Ideas into Elephants with Cathey Armillas | Ep. 112
June 27, 2017 09:00 - 1 hour - 42.4 MBCathey Armillas is a person who specializes in ideas. She spreads them, she cultivates them, and in her work, she regularly helps people get ready to present them at TED talks. Join Ben and Cathey as they discuss how we can harness something that starts as an idea, and turn it into something that can change the world.
Enjoying Your Insignificance with Ben Mathes Sr. | Ep. 111
June 20, 2017 09:00 - 50 minutes - 34.4 MBWith Father’s Day still fresh on our minds, Benjamin sits down to catch up with his dad on the happenings in his life. He opens up about being, “On the verge of insignificance.” Listen in, as the two of them discuss what it’s like to be a father, and what it’s like embracing a new phase of life when it’s time to watch those you’ve passed the torch on to carry on your cause.
The Other Side of Taboo with Tasha Reign
June 13, 2017 09:00 - 1 hour - 49.5 MBWhen we stop to listen, we not only allow ourselves to be vulnerable to viewpoints we’ve never heard before, but we also engage in topics that are tempting to be close-minded about. In this episode, Benjamin meets up with adult film actress Tasha Reign to chat about sex, love, spirituality, as well as the lesser known details of the pornographic industry.
Our Pursuit of Greatness with Pete and Matthew Gardner | Ep. 109
June 06, 2017 09:00 - 1 hour - 63.8 MBBenjamin sits down with actor Pete Gardner, and his son Matthew Gardner, to discuss what it means to balance being a success in our careers, in our family responsibilities, and with every other title that we claim to be! Together, Ben, Pete, and Matthew discuss how to seek well-rounded excellence without neglecting other interests in life. Join us, as we dive into what it means to chase a three dimensional greatness.
Sparking Our Curiosity with Ethan Sawyer | Ep. 108
May 30, 2017 09:00 - 1 hour - 26.3 MBEthan Sawyer, better known as College Essay Guy, is a master of questions. When Benjamin sits down with him to chat, the two quickly dig in to the power of curiosity and how our inquisitive nature can ignite passions in all areas of life. Join in on the conversation, as Ethan opens up to what it means to listen unconditionally.
Fostering Community while Finding the Individual with Ana Lorena Sanchez | Ep. 107
May 23, 2017 09:00 - 1 hour - 55.4 MBBenjamin invites actress Ana Lorena Sanchez to converse about what it means to have a tribe of people that encourages us on our journey through life. Together, Ana and Ben examine how the communities that we find can shape us and our perspective we take with us into the world. Listen in, and open up to the possibilities made possible by the people we choose to rally behind and for.
Pushing the Boundaries with Stuart Rogers | Ep. 106
May 16, 2017 09:00 - 1 hour - 50.8 MBBenjamin is joined by actor, director, and teacher Stuart Rogers as they discuss the importance of tradition and what it means to challenge the norms of today. Together, Ben and Stuart examine what exactly can happen when we challenge the authority of the past with the creativity we possess in the present. Join in on the conversation and listen as they discuss everything from the theatrically taboo, to the purpose of family roles, to our very reason for existence.
The Harmony of Stress and Passion with Andrew Heringer | Ep. 105
May 09, 2017 16:00 - 1 hour - 62.8 MBBenjamin sits down to chat with singer, songwriter and former member of Milo Greene, Andrew Heringer to examine how it feels to juggle our stress with our dreams and aspirations. Together, Ben and Andrew explore how our past and relationships can shape the paths we take in life and how to deal with the repercussions when moving forward. Listen in as Andrew invites listeners into his personal creative process, his spirituality, and even shares a song-in-progress from his new album.
Embracing Foolishness with Mitch Lewis | Ep. 104
May 02, 2017 10:00 - 55 minutes - 51.1 MBThis week Benjamin meets with Mitch Lewis – artist, optimistic cynic, and one-third of viral video comedian-provocateurs The Kloons. Exploring what it means to be a good person in 2017, Mitch and Ben dig into ego, ambition, sketch comedy, the roller coaster of viral fame, Burning Man, and the daunting practice of meditation. Open your mind to all possibilities in this episode, and discover the rich rewards of not knowing what you’re doing.