the ACT OUT podcast

Adam Tomlin

On the ACT OUT podcast, Adam talks to people about their passions and how they relate to our world today. Expect honest conversations, humor, and a little sarcasm as guests share their stories, perspectives, and lessons. We’re here to challenge narratives, celebrate authenticity, inspire listeners to live unapologetically as themselves, and spark a feeling of connection and hope with the audience. Episodes usually feature Adam and one guest in a colorful, conversational setting, with new episodes dropping every Thursday. Adam’s humor, empathy, and insightful sarcasm make each conversation engaging, relatable, and thought-provoking. Want to be a guest on the ACT OUT podcast? Send Adam Tomlin a message on PodMatch, here: PodMatch | the ACT OUT podcast

  1. 5d ago

    The Power of Breathwork: Can Changing Your Breath Change Your Life?

    Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with Jon Paul Crimi, breathwork teacher and trainer, for a fascinating conversation about breathwork, trauma, addiction recovery, the nervous system, and what it means to build a life around purpose rather than external success. Jon Paul explains his intense approach to breathwork, why he believes it can help people access emotions and experiences they’ve been carrying, and how something as simple as changing the way we breathe can create a surprisingly powerful experience. Jon Paul shares the unexpected path that led him to breathwork, including meeting Tony Robbins, working as a sober companion and celebrity trainer, and a pivotal experience sparked by his close friend Matthew Perry. What began as skepticism eventually became a 15-year career teaching breathwork around the world and training thousands of others to lead their own classes. Along the way, Jon Paul realized that helping people gave him something the fame, money, and celebrity lifestyle he once wanted never could: a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment. Adam and Jon Paul also get into the pressures of modern life, from social media anxiety and online bullying to raising kids in a world where smartphones and screens are everywhere. They discuss the difference between external success and genuine fulfillment, why boredom and creativity still matter for kids, and the challenge of finding balance with technology rather than letting it consume our attention. If you’ve ever wondered how breathwork works, why people use breathwork for stress and emotional healing, or whether changing the way you breathe could change the way you feel, this episode offers an entertaining introduction from someone who was once skeptical himself. It’s a conversation about breath, recovery, purpose, technology, parenting, and why sometimes the things we initially dismiss are worth experiencing for ourselves. Connect with Jon Paul Crimi here. Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions. Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast: Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/ Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast Credits: Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise and @‌tarayakisauce

  2. Sep 24

    Healing with Humor: Finding Hope Through Mental Illness and Stand-Up Comedy

    Content Note: This episode includes conversations about mental illness, depression, suicidal thoughts, and suicide attempts. Please take care while listening and skip this episode if these topics may be difficult for you. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988 in the U.S. to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with author, comedian, and mental health advocate Dave Mowry for an honest—and surprisingly funny—conversation about bipolar disorder, severe anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and the unexpected role stand-up comedy played in changing Dave’s life. Dave shares what life looked like during some of his darkest years, when depression and anxiety made even everyday tasks feel impossible, and how a stand-up comedy class for people living with mental illness completely shifted the way he viewed his experiences. Instead of being pulled back into painful memories, Dave began asking a different question: Where can I find the funny in this? That simple shift eventually led him from taking the class to teaching comedy himself and helping others use humor to tell their own stories. Adam and Dave also explore the complicated relationship between comedy and mental health, including joking about difficult subjects like suicide, reducing mental health stigma, and knowing when and where dark humor is appropriate. Dave shares stories of people whose confidence and sense of identity changed through his comedy classes, along with how those experiences inspired his books, including OMG, That’s Me! and Healing with Humor: Mental Illness to Mental Health. If you’ve ever wondered whether humor can actually help with mental health, why so many comedians turn painful experiences into comedy, or how changing the way we tell our stories can change the way we see ourselves, this episode offers a powerful look at resilience, connection, and finding light in some very dark places. Find Dave Mowry’s OMG That’s Me! books here. Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions. Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast: Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/ Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast Credits: Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise and @‌tarayakisauce

  3. Sep 17

    Breaking Free: How to Rewire Your Mind for a Better Life

    Content Note: This episode includes conversations about addiction, mental health, and suicidal thoughts. Please take care while listening and skip this episode if these topics may be difficult for you. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988 in the U.S. to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with John Borden, author, mindset coach, endurance athlete, and founder of Get Psyched Fitness, for an honest conversation about addiction, mental health, personal growth, psychedelics, and what it really takes to transform your life from the inside out. John shares his journey from struggling with addiction and unhealthy coping mechanisms to rebuilding his life through self-awareness, fitness, and intentional personal development. He opens up about the experiences that forced him to confront difficult truths, the lessons he learned along the way, and why true transformation starts with changing the way you think rather than simply changing your habits. Adam and John dive into the role psychedelics played in John's healing journey, discussing psilocybin, mindset, and the importance of approaching personal growth with intention and responsibility. Together, they explore how self-reflection, accountability, and a willingness to face uncomfortable emotions can help people break destructive patterns and create lasting change. The conversation also explores endurance sports, discipline, and the connection between physical challenges and mental resilience. John explains how pushing himself through ultramarathons, fitness competitions, and other demanding experiences has strengthened not only his body but also his mindset, reinforcing the belief that growth often happens outside of our comfort zones. Throughout the episode, John shares practical insights on developing a healthier mindset, overcoming limiting beliefs, and discovering your purpose. Whether discussing addiction recovery, personal responsibility, or the power of consistent self-improvement, he encourages listeners to embrace the process of becoming the best version of themselves—one decision at a time. If you've ever wondered how mindset influences every area of your life, what addiction recovery can teach us about personal growth, or how fitness and self-reflection can help create lasting change, this episode offers an honest and inspiring conversation about resilience, healing, and unlocking your full potential. Get John’s Book here Follow John on IG @‌johnniebe Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions. Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast: Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/ Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast Credits: Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise and @‌tarayakisauce

  4. Sep 10

    Data Centers, Money & Power: Who Really Controls American Politics?

    Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with Tim Cywinski, community organizer, former congressional candidate, for a wide-ranging conversation about money, power, data centers, and why our political system often seems designed to work for the people who already have the most. Tim draws on his experience in community organizing and running for Congress to explain why he believes changing politics starts with changing the rules—and challenging who gets to write them. Adam and Tim dig into the growing controversy surrounding data centers in Virginia, corporate influence, environmental issues, and what happens when ordinary communities find themselves going up against powerful special interests. They also explore why working-class Americans often have more in common than our politics would suggest, how culture-war issues can distract from shared economic concerns, and why Democrats need a stronger unifying message that speaks to people across racial, geographic, and political divides. The conversation also gets into the realities of running a grassroots political campaign, from fundraising barriers and party gatekeeping to the challenge of competing against candidates backed by established political networks. Tim reflects on what he learned from losing his congressional race, why he remains interested in supporting—and potentially becoming—part of a new wave of grassroots candidates, and why being a good leader doesn’t have to mean being soft when confronting people and systems that are causing harm. If you’ve ever wondered how money influences American politics, why data centers have become such a controversial issue in Virginia, or whether grassroots candidates can actually change a political system built around money and power, this episode offers an unfiltered conversation about working-class politics, political reform, and what it might take to build a movement that brings people together instead of keeping them divided. Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions. Learn more about Tim Cywinski: @‌votetimva Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions. Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast: Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/ Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast Credits: Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise and @‌tarayakisauce

  5. Sep 3

    Why Victoria Broderick Refuses to Give Up on Rural and Working-Class Voters

    Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with Victoria Broderick, a progressive congressional candidate running in Tennessee’s 4th District, for a candid conversation about rural politics, voter suppression, working-class issues, and what it really takes to run for office while raising a family and working full-time. Victoria shares how a miscarriage, an unexpected pregnancy, and the overturning of Roe v. Wade pushed her from political engagement into activism—and eventually onto the ballot herself. Victoria explains why she believes Tennessee isn’t simply a “red state,” but a state where voter suppression, redistricting, and years of political disengagement have kept many people from participating in elections. Adam and Victoria talk about rebuilding trust with rural voters, why Democrats need to invest in down-ballot races and local communities, and how showing up consistently has helped Victoria build support—even among Republican voters who may not identify with the progressive label but connect with progressive policies. The conversation also gets personal as Victoria discusses the double standards women face when running for office, including questions about how she can possibly be a mother and serve in Congress at the same time. She explains why motherhood is actually one of her greatest strengths as a candidate and how her experiences with grocery prices, public schools, health care, and raising young children inform her approach to public service. Adam and Victoria also explore working-class progressive policies, money in politics, gun ownership, affordability, Social Security, and why elected officials should see themselves as public servants rather than people in positions of power. If you’ve ever wondered whether progressive candidates can win rural voters, why voter turnout remains so low in states like Tennessee, or what it takes for an everyday working person to run for Congress, this episode offers a firsthand look at grassroots politics—and why Victoria believes lasting political change starts with showing up, organizing locally, and voting all the way down the ballot. Learn more about Victoria Broderick here.  Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions. Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast: Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/ Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast Credits: Mural: Tara Enneking  @‌taradiiiise and @‌tarayakisauce

  6. Aug 27

    Money in Politics: Can We Fix a System Built for the Wealthy?

    Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with Alex Rikleen, former candidate for the United States Senate in Massachusetts, for a candid conversation about running for political office, the Democratic Party, campaign finance, and what needs to change if Democrats want to build a stronger political movement. Alex shares how a lifelong interest in politics eventually led him to run for Senate—and why the 2024 election pushed him to stop watching from the sidelines and get involved. Adam and Alex dig into what it's actually like to run for office, from the isolation candidates can experience to the challenges of taking on established political figures in a deep-blue state like Massachusetts. They also discuss the role money plays in elections, why Alex refused corporate PAC money during his campaign, and how campaign finance can influence both who is able to run for office and whose interests ultimately get represented. The conversation then turns to the Democratic Party, political power, and the need for systemic reform. Adam and Alex discuss Citizens United, corporate influence in politics, congressional leadership, and why Alex believes Democrats need to be willing to challenge the status quo rather than simply protect existing institutions. They also take a deep dive into the Supreme Court, examining recent rulings on voting rights, reproductive rights, gun laws, and campaign finance—and making the case for expanding and reforming the Court. If you've ever wondered what it's really like to run for political office, how corporate money influences American politics, or why Supreme Court reform has become such a major issue for progressives, this episode offers an inside look at the systems shaping our democracy—and what it may take to change them. Learn more about Alex Rikleen: Blue Sky: @rickleen.bsky.social Instagram: @rickleenalex Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions. Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast: Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/ Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast Credits: Mural: Tara Enneking  @‌taradiiiise and @‌tarayakisauce

  7. Aug 20

    Deconstructing Religion: How Faith and Politics Shape Your Identity (Part 2)

    Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In Part 2 of Adam Tomlin's conversation with Kate Powell, the discussion picks up where they left off—taking a deeper dive into religious deconstruction, political identity, and the experiences that shaped Kate's worldview. What starts as a conversation about abundance versus scarcity quickly expands into a thoughtful exploration of how faith, politics, and personal values often become deeply intertwined. Adam and Kate discuss the ways conservative and progressive ideologies approach community, opportunity, and power, and how those perspectives influenced Kate's own journey out of evangelical Christianity. They explore why questioning long-held beliefs can be uncomfortable, how spirituality and political views often evolve together, and why empathy, curiosity, and evidence became central to Kate's approach to understanding the world. Along the way, they touch on women's roles in society, systemic inequality, environmental stewardship, and the importance of challenging ideas rather than simply accepting them. As the conversation continues, Kate shares how her political deconstruction closely followed her religious deconstruction and why both journeys ultimately led her to reevaluate the values she wanted to live by. The episode closes with a teaser for the next chapter of her story as she begins to unpack the pivotal experiences that first caused her to question the beliefs she'd held for most of her life. If you've ever wondered why so many people are deconstructing their faith, how religion can shape political beliefs, or what happens when you're willing to question everything you've been taught, this episode offers an honest, thought-provoking conversation about identity, personal growth, and finding the courage to think for yourself. Learn more about Kate Powell: @‌kate_forthepeople on IG or https://substack.com/@kateforthepeople Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions. Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast: Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/ Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast Credits: Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise and @‌tarayakisauce

  8. Aug 13

    Deconstructing Religion: Kate Powell’s Journey Out of Evangelical Christianity

    Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this special Part 1 of a two-part conversation, host Adam Tomlin sits down with Kate Powell, political content creator, former youth pastor, and advocate for thoughtful civic engagement. Kate shares her journey growing up in evangelical Christianity and how her experiences with faith, politics, and community shaped the person she is today. What begins as a conversation about her upbringing quickly unfolds into a thoughtful discussion about identity, curiosity, and questioning long-held beliefs. Adam and Kate explore what it was like growing up in the Bible Belt, serving in youth ministry, and navigating the expectations placed on young people within religious communities. They discuss how faith and politics often become intertwined, the challenges of deconstructing beliefs you've held your entire life, and why asking difficult questions can lead to deeper understanding instead of division. Along the way, they touch on purity culture, gender roles, empathy, and the importance of giving yourself permission to grow. As this first half of the conversation comes to a close, Kate reflects on how her experiences continue to shape the way she approaches political conversations today. It's an honest discussion about changing perspectives, embracing nuance, and recognizing that personal growth often begins when we're willing to listen, learn, and challenge our own assumptions. And this is only the beginning—Part 2 dives even deeper into the conversation. If you've ever wondered how faith influences political identity, what it really means to deconstruct your beliefs, or how life experiences can reshape the way you see the world, this episode offers an honest, thoughtful conversation that will leave you eager for Part 2. Learn more about Kate Powell: @‌kate_forthepeople on IG or https://substack.com/@kateforthepeople Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions. Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast: Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/ Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast Credits: Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise and @‌tarayakisauce

About

On the ACT OUT podcast, Adam talks to people about their passions and how they relate to our world today. Expect honest conversations, humor, and a little sarcasm as guests share their stories, perspectives, and lessons. We’re here to challenge narratives, celebrate authenticity, inspire listeners to live unapologetically as themselves, and spark a feeling of connection and hope with the audience. Episodes usually feature Adam and one guest in a colorful, conversational setting, with new episodes dropping every Thursday. Adam’s humor, empathy, and insightful sarcasm make each conversation engaging, relatable, and thought-provoking. Want to be a guest on the ACT OUT podcast? Send Adam Tomlin a message on PodMatch, here: PodMatch | the ACT OUT podcast