Political conversations often become arguments about which side is right. In Episode 523 of Fishing Without Bait, Jim Ellermeyer and Missy Sorg attempt something different: asking what happens after the talking points end.

This is Part 2 of our conversation with Missy, and the episode moves directly into some of the most emotionally and politically difficult subjects facing families and communities.

In Fishing Without Bait 522, Jim Ellermeyer begins a new conversation with Missy Sorg about political differences, friendship, and how to keep talking when the world feels divided. Missy shares why she wanted to return to the show to discuss the pain of lost friendships, assumptions, and being reduced to a political label. Jim and Missy explore the search for common ground, the danger of “contempt prior to investigation,” and why real conversations require curiosity, respect, and a willingness to listen.

This final part moves through some powerful and deeply human territory: faith, queer history, identity, community, Pittsburgh, personal freedom, and the ongoing work of finding your voice.

Jim opens the conversation around belief, spirituality, and the idea of a power greater than ourselves. From there, Eamon and Merlin explore how culture shapes the way people see the divine, and how different traditions often describe the same light through different lenses.

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.