Half Serious

Tess
  • 5.0 (8)
  • MENTAL HEALTH

In this show we delve into various hardships that people have had and how levity and laughter helped them through it. We will cover a variety of different people with different backgrounds to help show that no matter the situation, bringing a little levity to it can help you develop more grit and resilience to see it through.

  1. E31 Gambling Addiction, Overcoming Debt, and Finding a New Pattern

    1D AGO

    E31 Gambling Addiction, Overcoming Debt, and Finding a New Pattern

    This week we talk to Paul Nash about how he got addicted to gambling, and how he was able to overcome the decade long addiction. We also go into the topics about why gambling is such a dangerous addiction. Although it may not kill you like drugs or alcohol can, the mental toll and monetary devastation can lead to suicidal ideation or worse.  Not only did Paul readjust his life to take gambling completely out of it, but he was also able to change his relationship with food to look an immense amount of weight as well. In his recovery, he recovered a whole new life and appreciate for healthy habits. Now, he hopes to grow more knowledge on the dangers of gambling, and how to better see the signs in friends/relatives that might have a hidden problem.  Website now up!- yep and we have merch! TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Feel  free to reach out if you would like to be a guest or share with someone you think should be. We are always looking for new people that have a story to tell.  Email: tess@halfseriousllc.com

    41 min
  2. E30 Michigan State Swimming, Theft of a Legacy, and Coaching Through Adversity

    MAR 24

    E30 Michigan State Swimming, Theft of a Legacy, and Coaching Through Adversity

    BATTLE FOR SPARTAN SWIM AND DIVE This interview explores the impactful journey of a coach who navigated personal tragedy, career transitions, and the importance of resilience and perspective in sports and life. In this in-depth interview, Coach Matt Gianiodis shares his experiences coaching at Michigan State, the challenges faced during program cuts, and insights into athlete development and leadership. Discover the behind-the-scenes realities of college athletics, leadership lessons, and the importance of legacy and followership. In this engaging interview, Coach Matt Gianiodis shares insights from his coaching career, memorable stories from college days, and reflections on life and mentorship. Discover how relationships, influence, and personal growth shape a fulfilling journey. Key Topics Handling tragedy in sportsLeadership and resilienceCareer transitions and growth College coaching experiencesImpact of program cuts on athletes and staffLeadership lessons in sportsBuilding team followership and culture Coaching philosophy and lessons learnedMemorable college sports stories and friendshipsThe impact of mentorship and influence in sports and life Website now up!- yep and we have merch! TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Feel  free to reach out if you would like to be a guest or share with someone you think should be. We are always looking for new people that have a story to tell.  Email: tess@halfseriousllc.com

    1h 22m
  3. E29 Parkour Powerhouse, Positive Changes, and Vaulting Over the Odds - Ninja Warrior and Britain’s Got Talent

    MAR 17

    E29 Parkour Powerhouse, Positive Changes, and Vaulting Over the Odds - Ninja Warrior and Britain’s Got Talent

    This week we talk to Brad Wendes who has a plethora of experience in the world of parkour. Although his exposure in the the mainstream sense with Ninja Warrior, Britain's Got Talent, and the vast number of productions he has been a part of is intriguing, the most intriguing part of his accomplishments is what he had to trudge through behind closed doors.  He not only survived situations that should have deflated all ambition to reach his goals, but he now is using that effort and focus to give back to his community. He invests in the youth and promotes a healthy workforce by way of example. After this discussion, if you should ever find yourself at a point where giving up seems like the only option, Brad will give you a few options on how to crawl out. And let there be no mistake, there is never an easy fix to a complex problem, there is time, dedication, and grit. Brad now knows his purpose to is to help build a better world  so perhaps the next generation can keep building.  Want more information or looking to find an amazing organization?  Here is Brad Wendes website or check out Team Kinetix! Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Backgrounds 02:59 Transitioning from Law Enforcement to Podcasting 05:55 Reflections on 9/11 and Its Impact 11:51 Parenting in a Fearful World 14:58 The Evolution of Parkour as a Sport 17:54 Personal Journey into Parkour and Performance 22:25 Adventures and Misadventures in Performance 24:52 The Impact of Coaching and Community Engagement 26:43 Legacy of Altruism and Personal Growth 30:23 Challenges in Youth Engagement and Crime Prevention 36:27 Navigating Personal Loss and Mental Health 45:10 Resilience Through Adversity and the COVID Experience 47:57 Navigating Post-Lockdown Challenges 49:54 Addressing Youth Employment and NEETs 52:39 Building a Community-Focused Not-for-Profit 56:42 Mentorship and Empowering Young People 01:01:30 Coping with Loss and Mental Health 01:06:22 The Importance of Grit and Resilience 01:08:44 Future Aspirations and Leaving a Legacy 01:13:31 Building a Respectful Workplace Culture 01:15:51 The Importance of Shared Experiences 01:19:32 Lessons from Sports and Coaching 01:21:52 Finding Purpose After Loss 01:25:46 The Challenge of Balancing Ethics and Success 01:29:44 The Power of Kindness 01:31:34 Unexpected Opportunities from Simple Acts 01:36:07 Reflections on Life and Future Aspirations Website now up!- yep and we have merch! TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Feel  free to reach out if you would like to be a guest or share with someone you think should be. We are always looking for new people that have a story to tell.  Email: tess@halfseriousllc.com

    1h 19m
  4. E28: Active Shooter Training, Heroic Marines, and Santa Magic

    MAR 10

    E28: Active Shooter Training, Heroic Marines, and Santa Magic

    In this conversation, Tess and Earl discuss the evolution of active shooter training, the importance of military experience in crisis management, and the challenges of transitioning to civilian life. Earl shares insights from his military background, emphasizing the need for effective training that includes the fight component in active shooter situations. They also explore the significance of honoring fallen heroes, maintaining a positive mindset in crisis training, and the value of personal hobbies like metal detecting as a means of coping with the stresses of their professions. In this engaging conversation, Earl shares his passion for metal detecting, recounting thrilling finds like a Japanese knee mortar and a wedding ring rescue. He discusses his competitive shooting experiences and the joy of teaching others, including his journey to becoming a Santa Claus. Earl emphasizes the importance of active shooter preparedness and lifelong learning, showcasing his dedication to both personal hobbies and community service. Find Earl and his team at https://mobilemarksmanship.com/Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Initial Thoughts 03:01 Active Shooter Training Evolution 06:02 The Importance of Fighting Back 08:52 School Safety and Preparedness 11:41 Earl's Military Background and Transition 14:54 The Last Six Seconds: A Tribute to Marines 32:48 Maintaining Connections in Service 36:29 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life 42:11 Finding Joy in Hobbies and Interests 55:40 The Magic of Santa Claus 01:00:58 Becoming a Professional Santa 01:05:27 The Importance of Active Shooter Training 01:09:49 Teaching with Passion and Purpose 01:13:01 The Challenges of Know-It-All Students 01:15:20 The Value of Continuous Learning 01:19:17 Final Thoughts and Reflections Website now up!- yep and we have merch! TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Feel  free to reach out if you would like to be a guest or share with someone you think should be. We are always looking for new people that have a story to tell.  Email: tess@halfseriousllc.com

    1h 5m
  5. E27: Our First FLUFFER (aka mini) episode- and Yes the Name Is On Purpose (get it?)

    MAR 9 ·  BONUS

    E27: Our First FLUFFER (aka mini) episode- and Yes the Name Is On Purpose (get it?)

    In this episode, our host introduces the concept of 'Fluffer' episodes—quick, candid Q&A sessions—and your will probably regret listening to it. But thats ok, that is what we do. These will be quick episodes so we can address some of the questions you all have had for us or to delve into previous episodes a little more. Have questions? Email us and we will answer them on our next Fluffer episode! Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Fluffer Episodes 00:39 Purpose of Podcasting 04:54 Leadership Challenges in Police Departments 08:13 Dating Experiences and Perspectives 12:56 New Stuff Website now up!- yep and we have merch! TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Feel  free to reach out if you would like to be a guest or share with someone you think should be. We are always looking for new people that have a story to tell.  Email: tess@halfseriousllc.com

    13 min
  6. E26 🚨Police Leadership, Fracture of Thought, and Q & A with Your Host

    FEB 10

    E26 🚨Police Leadership, Fracture of Thought, and Q & A with Your Host

    You guys made it to the season finale. This episode your Host gets interviewed by a past guest, Chass. Now, they go off the rails quite a bit due to a tragic event that happened a week prior, but we promise real conversations in this, and that is what you got. Please be weary, the F-bomb is used quite a bit in here but you put cops and emotions in a room together, and cussing is what you get. Actually, I think you might get that regardless. We cover a lot of topics but mostly police leadership, your hosts past experiences in policing, and touch on our reaction to an officer's recent death.  We have more to come with season 2 but due to the time constraints we will pause for a bit just to get some stuff up and running again. Again, if you want to be a guest or have any questions/inquiries, please email us at the address provided. Be safe, and know that no matter what you are going through, someone else out there is going through it too. You are not aloe in it.  Website now up!- yep and we have merch! TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Feel  free to reach out if you would like to be a guest or share with someone you think should be. We are always looking for new people that have a story to tell.  Email: tess@halfseriousllc.com

    1h 21m
  7. E25: Hillbillies, Police Academies, and Tucker'd Out Farms

    FEB 3

    E25: Hillbillies, Police Academies, and Tucker'd Out Farms

    In this engaging conversation, Tucker shares a candid account of his experiences in law enforcement, touching on the challenges and humorous moments that come with the job. Tucker recounts his early days in the academy, the camaraderie formed with fellow recruits, and the unique challenges of navigating police work. The conversation flows into anecdotes about their time in the field, including humorous mishaps and the realities of police life, such as dealing with paperwork and public speaking. Throughout, Tucker's humor and authenticity shine through, making for an entertaining and insightful dialogue about the complexities of being a police officer. Tucker recounts a memorable night of arrests, highlighting the unpredictability of police work and the importance of having a supportive partner. The discussion shifts to the emotional toll of the job, particularly in the context of peer support and the impact of traumatic events on officers. Tucker emphasizes the significance of mental health and the need for open conversations about grief and support within the police community.  As the conversation progresses, Tucker discusses his transition to civilian life and the establishment of his farm, "Tuckered Out Farms," where he aims to create a sustainable lifestyle. He shares insights into the challenges of building a business while managing family life and the importance of hobbies outside of law enforcement. The episode concludes with a heartfelt reflection on the bonds formed in the police force and the ongoing journey of personal growth and healing. For More information on Tucker'd Out Farms, Follow their Facebook Page where they will announce activities and items up for the season. Website now up!- yep and we have merch! TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Feel  free to reach out if you would like to be a guest or share with someone you think should be. We are always looking for new people that have a story to tell.  Email: tess@halfseriousllc.com

    1h 45m
  8. E24: FireFighter vs Cop, Different Dangers, and Non Compatible with Life

    JAN 27

    E24: FireFighter vs Cop, Different Dangers, and Non Compatible with Life

    This week we talk to a firefighter. I know I know, the firefighter vs cop thing. I love some good banter with a firefighter. We will be the quickest to make fun o each other but will also be the quickest to defend each other as well. We will discuss how the training is different, talk wildfire dangers, the different perspectives of firefighters from police, and how they cope with the trauma they have faced. We then delve into how they have improve their mental health approach, but how it is still lightyears behind where it needs to be. Oh, and yes of course there is some firefighter vs cop banter.... I highly suggest this episode for anyone lookin to get into firefighting as it gives you a brief inside look at what to expect and how to train for it.  Know another firefighter we should have on? We are here for it. Send this to them and email us at tess@halfseriousllc.com Website now up!- yep and we have merch! TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Feel  free to reach out if you would like to be a guest or share with someone you think should be. We are always looking for new people that have a story to tell.  Email: tess@halfseriousllc.com

    1h 7m
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Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

In this show we delve into various hardships that people have had and how levity and laughter helped them through it. We will cover a variety of different people with different backgrounds to help show that no matter the situation, bringing a little levity to it can help you develop more grit and resilience to see it through.

Information

  • Creator
    Tess
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    31
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Half Serious
  • Show Website
    Half Serious

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