Episode 20: “Melancholy melodies”
Sam Ames, 37
Glendive, Mt

(Recorded: 12/27/24)


On this episode of the Hanging with Humans podcast, we sit down with Sam Ames, who shares her captivating life story rooted in the musical beats of Alberton, Montana.
Growing up surrounded by melodies, from her father's youthful triumph at the gong show to the vibrant tunes played by his mother in local bars, Sam's childhood was a symphony of highs and lows.

We spoke of navigating the challenging landscapes of familial addiction.
(A topic that hits home for me)
Sam opens up about confronting the shadows of her past and the impact it had on her relationships.

She candidly recounts her mother's struggles with substance abuse and the rippling effects that strain family bonds.

Out of all the life stories told on this podcast thus far, this one has many similarities to the way I grew up.

“It’s never too late to make a change.”
Is something that I wholeheartedly believe in, and are words that I udder often. Sam's journey underscores that completely as we discuss the themes of recovery and healing.

We both found the importance of camaraderie in high school sports to play the pivotal role of mentorship during dire times.

There’s a common theme between us. The powerful narrative of overcoming darkness to find strength and reconciliation.

The journey doesn't end there as Sam explores paths of redemption and purpose.
The support and the significance of building a stable, loving environment for her own children. Is the redemption that had been sought out for years after years of vicious cycles of being in the grips of addiction.

Towards the end of this episode. We dive into the complexities of mental health in the digital age, where we share personal coping strategies, including grounding practices and the importance of stepping back from the pressures of social media.

We speak of the profound gratitude found in everyday joys. That can be sometimes taken for granted. & The importance of moving forward.

I would like to thank Sam & her wonderful boyfriend Chris (who will be interviewed soon).
For taking the time out of their busy lives to come spend their Friday evening with me.

Stay tuned, I have plans for a few more episodes to be recorded before the new year.
Happy holidays to you and yours. 🎄🎁🪩🎉

P.s.
Recording 20 episodes was a huge goal that I wasn’t sure I was going to reach by the new year. But we did it 🙏🏼

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

Social Media:

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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 18: “Church on a Sunday”
Autumn Hudson, 35
Grand Junction, Co

Recorded 12/15/24

A three-day tattoo session with Autumn Hudson might sound bold, but it's just another chapter in our nearly decade-long friendship. Autumn, who grew up in the remote landscapes of Manhattan, Montana, shares her journey of creativity and solitude.

Together, Our conversation dives into high school memories of rebellious fashion and art as an outlet for self-expression.

Art and snowboarding became intertwined passions, but social anxiety and addiction cast long shadows on Autumn's life.

We discuss eventually overcoming addiction. A transformative stint at an art college that opened new avenues, leading to a self-taught tattooing journey that began with a humble Amazon tattoo machine kit.

She candidly narrates her road to modeling and professional snowboarding, dreams she’s been chasing since the third grade.

We spoke of her being thrown into the fire of becoming a business owner unexpectedly after six months of tattooing, which lead to 8 years of owning her shop. (617 Tattoo)

As opportunities unfolded, Autumn's move from owning a shop in Livingston, Mt to joining Elysium Studios in Grand Junction, Co exemplifies her dedication to learning and growth.

Facing the dark moments of addiction, creativity, and evolution are the heartbeats of our discussion, as Autumn shares her artistic journey enhanced by psychedelics.

Our gratitude for each other and the unwavering support from the Elysium Studios team stands out, wrapping up this heartfelt episode with warmth and anticipation for the future.

There are some big announcements on future ambitions and aspirations for artistic growth laid out at the end of the podcast. As well as an almost forgotten reminder of my current & future endeavors.


Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays 🎄

I wondered how this 3 day back session would go? (Our second session) 2/3*

It was the easiest of any tattoo I’ve ever sat through. Why…?
I think because Emotional pain > Physical pain. But also the anticipation knowing at the end I get to interview one of my closest friends, in the raddest shop I’ve ever stepped into.

There was also a steak dinner had with her & her boyfriend in the shop when the session was complete. Right before the recording of the podcast. Therapy weekend at its finest. 💯

I just want to say thank you so much to my dear friend Autumn here for this experience, but mostly for just exemplifying what it is to be a true friend. The best Christmas gift of all! 🎁

Go check out my homie!

https://elysium-studios

Support the show

Contact & Info:

www.hangingwithhumans.com

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

Support the Podcast:

https://gofund.me/2a99e9b7

Video Podcast :

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

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

Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/hangingwithhumans

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


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 19: “Baptized by fire”
Donna Daniel, 49
Glendive, MT


Recorded: 12/19/24

Imagine uncovering a family mystery hidden within the pages of a family Bible—that's just the beginning of Donna Daniel's extraordinary life story.

Donna joins us to share her journey from being adopted for $500 before birth, to discovering that her biological mother might have been a close family member. Her story unfolds like a captivating novel, revealing the complex dynamics of family secrets and unexpected connections, all set against the backdrop of growing up in Portland, Oregon.

Her life's tapestry is rich with themes of identity and self-discovery, woven together through the momentous occasion of meeting her biological siblings at the age of 33.

As we explore Donna's experiences, we dive into the ripple effects of family trauma and the resilience required to navigate them. Her narrative takes us through early marriage, motherhood, and the challenges of overcoming addiction.

With candid reflections, Donna shares how societal changes and personal choices shaped her life, and how achieving sobriety became a pivotal turning point.

Her story is a testament to the power of empathy, understanding, and the relentless pursuit of personal growth, even amidst adversity and betrayal.

Celebrate the chapters of self-discovery and transformation as Donna embarks on an educational journey that sees her thriving in a college environment, despite past struggles. From tackling life’s challenges, to embracing art therapy.

Her story emphasizes the importance of support systems, the impact of sponsorship, and the joy of rediscovering oneself through education and spiritual awakening. Join us for an inspiring conversation that highlights the courage required to embrace vulnerability, cherish connections, and pursue a fulfilling life.

Living proof that It’s never too late to make a change. <3

Thank you so much for letting me into your world for a moment Donna. I walked away from this one with a new outlook, and a new friend.

Support the show

Contact & Info:

www.hangingwithhumans.com

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

Support the Podcast:

https://gofund.me/2a99e9b7

Video Podcast :

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

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

Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/hangingwithhumans

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


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 15: "The first flight"
Remington Shideler, 30
Glendive, MT



I would like to thank Remington for making the effort to make his away across the state to come record a podcast here in my home.

Remington is about as "strong & silent" as that type can be. I am a firm believer in a few things. One is you never judge a book by it's cover. And two, Think before you say something about somebody or judge them. You never know what somebody has gone through, or is going through.

"Your family or your peace?"
A question that came to mind during this interview.
Which is more important?

The first guest to fly in for the therapy weekend, podcast on a Sunday extravaganza. (A big deal for me)
It was a great weekend just hanging 1 on 1 with Remington. I'm so stoked we we're able to get you to check our your first Rodeo!

Remington and I unravel a tapestry of complex family dynamics and intriguing life experiences that have shaped us. Our conversation begins with Remington's unique upbringing, constantly on the move, and the challenges of forming lasting relationships. His candid reflections on cutting ties with his parents for his mental well-being reveal the strength and resilience found amidst adversity.

Remington shares his extraordinary journey from a turbulent childhood marked by historical familial trauma to facing a wrongful legal battle during the pandemic. His story reflects on resilience, family dynamics, and how personal growth often emerges from struggles, inspiring listeners to embrace their narratives.

The episode also explores profound themes of loss and transformation, particularly through the lens of Remington's brother's untimely passing.

Remington and I discuss how such heart-wrenching experiences have spurred personal growth and maturity, driving us to find strength in adversity.

From honoring his brother's legacy through bodybuilding to navigating strained relationships and legal battles, we underscore the importance of resilience and the pursuit of a meaningful legacy.

Through personal anecdotes and insights, we offer a raw and candid glimpse into the journey of self-discovery and the relentless quest for control and purpose amidst life's chaos.

Support the show

Contact & Info:

www.hangingwithhumans.com

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

Support the Podcast:

https://gofund.me/2a99e9b7

Video Podcast :

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

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

Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/hangingwithhumans

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


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 17: "The little pieces"
Jorge Pantoja, 33
Grand Junction, Co



Meet Jorge Pantoja, A young man from Mexico, who is also my Lyft driver (2nd one I've interviewed on the podcast) whose journey from Palacio Durango to Grand Junction, Colorado, is nothing short of inspiring.

In this episode of Hanging with Humans, Jorge takes us through the pivotal moments of his childhood, the crucial decisions that kept him on a path away from drugs, and how mental preparedness played a vital role in his resilience. His story is a compelling reminder of how our environment and the choices we make can impact our personal growth and opportunities.

Once in Grand Junction, Jorge faced the formidable challenges of adapting to a new culture and language. Determined to create a better life, he overcame language barriers with the encouragement of a local farmer and went back to school to learn English, eventually enrolling in college. Jorge's journey to land ownership is fueled by a deep connection to his family and their history with tree farming. His experiences shed light on the importance of adaptability and the relentless pursuit of new opportunities, proving that change can indeed lead to empowerment and personal fulfillment.

The conversation takes a heartfelt turn as Jorge shares his transformative journey with therapy and mental health. We explore the cultural taboos that often prevent men from seeking help and how Jorge's initial skepticism turned into a profound appreciation for open communication. We also discuss the societal issues facing Grand Junction, such as high suicide rates and homelessness, while reflecting on the hidden value and unique qualities of smaller towns. Through Jorge's story, we emphasize the importance of embracing vulnerability, making choices, and finding happiness in life's journey, whether in the bustling cities or the serene landscapes of Grand Junction.

I just wanted to say thanks so much to Jorge for taking the time out of his busy life to do this podcast with me. We just met and had a very short window to make this happen. But next day, first thing in the a.m. Jorge showed up excited and ready to have a conversation on important topics that are very prevalent in today's climate.

The conversation on "Therapy" i think is explained in a very digestible manner.
I found a lot of inspiration in this episode, I hope you can find something as well.

Thanks so much for listening everyone, I appreciate all of yalls. <3
got a few more on the way before the new year.

Support the show

Contact & Info:

www.hangingwithhumans.com

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

Support the Podcast:

https://gofund.me/2a99e9b7

Video Podcast :

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

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

Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/hangingwithhumans

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


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 14: "Peace at the Hayloft"
Charmion Harris, 49 looks like 29
Chapman, KS


Impulsivity? Or listening to the heart?
Most likely both, how this Podcast came to be.
- As I look back at this moment.

An intense feeling that I cannot explain comes to me.

Overwhelmed? No, that can't be it.

A capturing of a moment of darkness & confusion, that you could only see on the inside. #Dontgiveup

You will appreciate what you fought through

What does it mean to call a place "home" when you've moved 27 times? That's the question we explore with Charmion Harris, whose life story is a testament to resilience and adaptability.

Raised on a horse ranch, Charmion learned the values of overcoming adversity early on, skills that would prove invaluable through her dynamic journey in the military and beyond.

She shares powerful insights into the importance of forging relationships based on shared energies and how these connections have guided her through life's many trials.

Traveling across the globe from Uganda to Europe, She gathered stories and experiences that underscore the transformative power of stepping out of one's comfort zone.

This episode captures the essence of storytelling, not just as a means of preserving memories but as a catalyst for personal growth and inspiration for others. We discuss her ventures with the Peace Corps and the significance of traditions, such as yoga.

In a world brimming with distractions, finding purpose and fostering empathy are more crucial than ever.

We spoke of self-love, the influence of family support, and how the unforeseen connections that often propel us forward. Are crucial for the soul (my words)

Join us as we uncover the wisdom found in unexpected places and the courage required to navigate life's ever-changing landscape.

THANK YOU,

Charmion & Mike
For being so kind to me and my babies.
The biggest hearts <3




** Filmed during a hard chapter

Support the show

Contact & Info:

www.hangingwithhumans.com

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

Support the Podcast:

https://gofund.me/2a99e9b7

Video Podcast :

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

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

Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/hangingwithhumans

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


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 16:"Different Battles, Common Ground"
Bakhtiar Talash , 38
Sacramento, CA

My lyft driver turned guest, Was kind enough to sit down with me in Old Sacramento.

- It had been 6 years since being back in Cali, what a way to end the trip.
(btw) Sorry I didn't get a chance to make it Modesto, Will be returning early 2025 for two weeks, To record a few Podcast with some peeps back home. As well as get started on the documentary I've been lowkey working on.

Talking about the navigation of the complexities of cultural integration.

His story is not just about all the places he's lived, but the spirit of resilience and determination shaped by his family’s commitment to education.

After the loss of his father. We dive into how his early teachings have carved his path from law and politics to pioneering EV technology.

All while balancing family life and the nuances of an arranged marriage that blossomed into true love.

He opens up about the challenges immigrants face when crossing cultural boundaries in the United States.

His personal anecdotes shed light on the many struggles immigrants face.

Finally, the conversation turns towards mental health, and exploring the various ways people cope with depression.

We discuss how upbringing in different environments impacts resilience and the struggle veterans face in civilian life.

He also reflects on the role of spirituality, medicine, and natural remedies in managing mental health. While advocating for individual choice in finding happiness.

Tune in for a profound discussion on resilience, integration, and the pursuit of harmony in a diverse world.

Big thank you to my friend here.
One moment he’s picking me up from my hotel room in his Lyft. Next day we’re in Old Sacramento shooting one of the most important Podcasts I’ve done to date.

Within 10 minutes of sitting in a vehicle with a stranger, on my last day in which I did not think I would be able to record one.
My rocket scientist Lyft driver came through in the clutch.

I think in one way or another, we’re all standing on “Common Ground.”

#hwhp #tour #hangingwithhumans

Support the show

Contact & Info:

www.hangingwithhumans.com

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

Support the Podcast:

https://gofund.me/2a99e9b7

Video Podcast :

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

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

Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/hangingwithhumans

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


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 13: "Sea of Confusion"
Heather Lisk, 44
Glendive, MT

Rercorded: 06/27/24


Can the bonds forged through shared struggles and triumphs truly withstand the test of time and distance? Join us on "Hanging with Humans" as we explore these profound questions with our special guest, Mensa society member Heather Lisk. (Child Genius)

Heather and I crossed paths during one of the most turbulent chapters of my life. We had both found ourselves alone in a new place, with nobody there to a call a friend. Well everything happens for a reason.

Over the last few days, we've faced the ups and downs of life together—Heather candidly shares her bittersweet emotions about moving back to Ohio from Montana, shedding light on the sense of loss and perceived failure that often accompanies such transitions.

Our mutual commitment to mental health awareness create a rich and heartfelt narrative about the power of friendship and resilience.

On this episode Heather recounts the time spent in the scuba diving world.
But it's not all about the adventures. We delve deep into the complexities of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and the healing power of empathy and understanding. Heather and I share our personal experiences with trauma, mental health challenges, and the quest for selfless love. We happen to share some of the same Illnesses. So our honest and open conversations reveal the transformative impact of supportive friendships and the strength required to overcome life’s adversities.

Two months after the Podcast recording. I am pleased to share that Heather & Loki are in Ohio safe & sound.
I am also happy to announce that Heather has been navigating and working through her passed struggles with addiction. She's doing a great job staying on track. I'm so very grateful that she has found a new meaning in this chapter of her life.
(It's never too late to make a change
Heather has helped me in so many ways, but hiring her to assist me with graphic design has been so helpful. It makes me happy knowing that you're finding a new found love in what you're doing. Purpose is everything. I mean hiring a genius, i feel like the odds were in my favor.

This was the first podcast done @ the new spot.
Thank you for helping me in all the ways Heather.
Until the next one.

Support the show

Contact & Info:

www.hangingwithhumans.com

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

Support the Podcast:

https://gofund.me/2a99e9b7

Video Podcast :

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

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

Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/hangingwithhumans

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


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.