In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, Jim Ellermeyer and producer Mike Sorg wade into some deep—and dangerous—waters. Together, they explore how stochastic rhetoric and obfuscation have become the most powerful tools in modern political communication.

What do those words mean? In short, they describe how leaders and media use vague, coded, or confusing language to manipulate emotions, create division, and dodge accountability. From “dog whistles” to “plausible deniability,” Jim explains how these tactics quietly shape behavior and beliefs—without ever saying things outright.

In this eye-opening episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer is joined once again by producer Mike Sorg to explore how modern media shapes our identities, fuels our purchases, and even distorts our sense of self-worth.

From emotional manipulation in advertising to influencer culture and data-driven targeting, Jim and Mike unpack the psychological tactics behind today’s media and tech. How does a Power Glove from the ’80s connect to the viral influencer culture of today? Are we in control of our choices—or are we reacting without realizing it?

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, host Jim Ellermeyer is joined by producer Mike Sorg for a heartfelt reflection on uncertainty, personal growth, and the enduring wisdom of Pittsburgh’s own Fred Rogers. Through the lens of full-impact mindfulness, they explore timeless quotes from Mr. Rogers that continue to offer strength, clarity, and hope in uncertain times.

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, Jim Ellermeyer and producer Mike dive into the power of mindful communication through a series of simple yet profound phrases that can transform your relationships and internal peace.

Do you ever feel like you’re stuck on autopilot—wake, work, eat, sleep, repeat?

In this episode, Jim Ellermeyer and Mike Sorg explore the difference between existing and living, breaking down the concept of being a human being versus a human doing. Through real-life examples and mindfulness practices, they help you reclaim your daily life through intentional action, journaling, and presence.

In Episode 484 of Fishing Without Bait, Jim Ellermeyer and producer Mike explore the inner chaos of racing thoughts and the anxiety that often stems from our own internal storytelling.

They introduce the concept of cognitive clarity—the ability to slow down your thinking, step out of the “mind drama,” and reclaim emotional control from others’ expectations. It’s a call to speak what you create, and create what you speak.

In this eye-opening episode of Fishing Without Bait, Jim Ellermeyer and co-host Mike Sorg take a step back from the noise and division to focus on the unifying principles found in the world’s major religions.

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, Jim Ellermeyer and producer Mike Sorg take a transformative dive into a concept often overlooked in recovery, education, parenting, and everyday life: positive chain analysis.