Champagne Problems EVRYBDY Studios

Robbie traveled to LA to sit down with actor and comedian, John Ross Bowie. Bowie has over 100 credits in TV and film, including: “The Big Bang Theory,” (11 seasons as Barry Kripke) “Speechless,” (3 seasons as Jimmy Dimeo) “Fresh off the Boat,” “Episodes,” “Brooklyn 99,” “House of Lies,” “Heroes," multiple "CSIs,"  Jumanji: The Next Level, He’s Just Not That Into You, and What the Bleep do we Know? He is also an incredibly talented improv comedian, as you will see. In 2022, he published No Job For A Man, his memoir titled after a quote from his father about making money from the arts. He has been performing at Upright Citizens Brigade theater since 1998, and can often be seen in SUPERMARRIED, the two person improv show with his wife, Jamie Denbo. Bowie also quit drinking and that was fun to discuss as well. 

Mike Gminski, a former American professional basketball player, is renowned for his impressive career in the NBA and now, his contributions to advocacy around addiction recovery. Making a name for himself at Duke University, Gminski was a standout center, earning multiple accolades including All-ACC and All-American honors. His college success paved the way for a distinguished NBA career, where he played for teams like the New Jersey Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, and the Charlotte Hornets. Beyond the basketball court, Gminski has also built a remarkable 30-year career in broadcasting, where his insights and experience have made him a respected voice in sports media. Alongside this successful broadcasting career, he faced and overcame significant struggles with addiction. His journey to recovery has been a source of inspiration and motivation for his advocacy work in the field of addiction recovery. Gminski is passionately involved in helping others who face similar challenges, using his personal experience and public platform to raise awareness about addiction and the possibilities of recovery. He actively participates in various programs and initiatives that support those battling addiction, often sharing his story to encourage and guide others towards a path of sobriety and health. He’s currently the Director of Mentorship at Sana House and sits on the Board of Directors at Emerald School of Excellence, NC’s first recovery high school. 
Thank you to our sponsor: Bonbuz

Initiated by the Joe Martin ALS Foundation, Robbie Shaw traveled to LA to sit down with Aaron Lazar about his experience before, during and after his ALS diagnosis. Aaron is an actor, singer, and entrepreneur known for his work on Broadway, television, film and concerts and has made it his personal mission to educate and inspire people around the world who are battling this awful disease. Aaron will be the keynote for the Joe Martin ALS Foundation’s April 17th and 18th fundraising events in Greensboro and Charlotte. Tickets here.
This episode was co-produced by Studio City Sound and produced by EVRYBDY Studios.

Joining Robbie Shaw and Patrick Balsley on the Champagne Problems Podcast is Michael Stutts, a native Charlottean with a unique and inspiring story. Once a high-flying executive, Michael chose a drastic shift from the corner office to a psych ward, prioritizing mental health over his remarkable career in investment banking and management consulting. In his compelling book, "There’s No Room Service at the Psych Ward," Michael candidly shares his journey, offering valuable insights for high achievers facing similar challenges. His experiences as a former Managing Director, Partner at a global consultancy, and C-suite executive in major corporations, combined with his personal battles and victories, make for an engaging and enlightening conversation about mental health, resilience, and starting anew. 
Instagram: @mstutts
Thank you to our sponsor: Bonbuz

Robbie and Patrick sit down with Hilary Phelps, recovery advocate, former swimmer, and older sister of Olympic swimmer, Michael Phelps. Hilary discusses her relationship with alcohol and drugs throughout adolescence and early adulthood and shares the experiences that led to her decision to get sober and build a life, and subsequent career, filled with connection and purpose.
From her early years, Hilary shone brightly as a beacon of promise, excelling with top grades and outpacing her peers as the nation's fastest swimmer in the country for her age group. Yet, at just 14, her life took a dramatic turn with her first sip of alcohol, marking the beginning of a 15-year struggle with addiction—a time filled with profound emptiness, confusion, and a sense of being lost.
At 29, Hilary courageously took a significant step towards healing by checking into rehab for substance use disorder. Her journey into sobriety entailed much more than simply giving up alcohol; it was about fundamentally changing her life, distancing herself from negative influences, and confronting the underlying issues that led her to addiction. 
After 15 years of keeping her story of sobriety and recovery to herself (a quiet, personal victory), she realized the power and importance of sharing her story. She began to publicly share her story which led to more opportunities to speak out. Through these experiences, Hilary discovered a deeper purpose: to offer hope and encouragement to others who are healing quietly, helping them to persevere by openly sharing her own journey of recovery and healing.
Today, as a speaker, an addiction recovery advocate, writer, and holistic wellness coach, Hilary is dedicated to helping other women find their voices and heal from the challenges holding them back.
Thank you to our sponsor:

Bonbuz: https://bonbuz.com/

Robbie Shaw and Shep Rose of Bravo’s Southern Charm reality TV show, have an entertaining, energetic and often deep discussion around life in the public eye, fame, expectations, and growth. Shep opens up about some of his struggles and subsequent changes he’s looking to make as he focuses more on his general well-being.
Thank you to our sponsor:

Bonbuz: https://bonbuz.com/