The conversation with returning guests Eamon and Merlin continues in Part 3 with one of the most reflective discussions in the series.

The episode begins by exploring an idea that can transform how we see ourselves and others: choosing curiosity over certainty. Rather than clinging to beliefs simply because they're familiar, the conversation encourages asking an important question: "What if I'm wrong?" That willingness to remain open becomes a foundation for growth, learning, and mindfulness.

Throughout the episode, Eamon and Merlin share personal experiences involving family relationships, marriage, faith, forgiveness, and community. Their stories demonstrate how preconceived ideas often begin to unravel when people move beyond assumptions and engage with one another directly.

Several years after their first appearance, Eamon and Merlin return to discuss the significant changes that have shaped their lives. Central to the conversation is their decision to leave Texas and relocate to Pittsburgh, a move motivated by concerns about personal rights, safety, and the desire to live in a community where they could more fully express who they are.

The latest episode of Fishing Without Bait continues Jim Ellermeyer’s powerful conversation with returning guest Joanna Lowe in a deeply honest discussion about grief, trauma, anger, and survival.

Joanna shares the reality of living through devastating loss and what it means to survive when life no longer feels recognizable. Rather than offering easy answers, this episode explores the uncomfortable truths of grief — the loneliness, the rage, the exhaustion, and the need for human connection even when you feel disconnected from everything around you.

The latest episode of Fishing Without Bait continues Jim Ellermeyer’s powerful conversation with returning guest Joanna Lowe in a deeply honest discussion about grief, trauma, anger, and survival.

Joanna shares the reality of living through devastating loss and what it means to survive when life no longer feels recognizable. Rather than offering easy answers, this episode explores the uncomfortable truths of grief — the loneliness, the rage, the exhaustion, and the need for human connection even when you feel disconnected from everything around you.

In this powerful continuation of our conversation with Joanna Lowe, we step into one of the most difficult human experiences: profound, life-altering grief.

Joanna shares the unimaginable reality of losing her husband just months after their marriage—a loss that didn’t just break her heart, but changed her entire sense of identity, time, and connection to the world.

We’re excited to welcome Joanna Lowe back to Fishing Without Bait as we begin a new multi-part conversation.

In this first installment, Joanna shares the origin story of her spoken word career—something she never planned. In fact, it started in a moment where she felt small and powerless. Instead of retreating, she stepped onto a stage, terrified, and performed for the first time.

In episode 513 of Fishing Without Bait, Jim Ellermeyer and Mike return to the fundamentals of mindfulness and recovery—focusing on gratitude, awareness, and the people we surround ourselves with.

At the heart of the conversation is a simple but powerful idea: everyone is in recovery from something. Whether it’s habits, thought patterns, or emotional reactions, growth begins with awareness and intentional change.