Bryan and Nick are starting a new adventure! Deep dives into the stand-up comedian world.

You remember how Bryan and Nick are Toastmasters? (of course you do, they only mention it every chance they get) Well, as Toastmasters they have gotten in the habit of evaluating people speaking. It was only a short step to get to their new podcast, "Laughs Per Minute". They will be doing a deep dive with a guest into stand up comedians by evaluating them up and down, backwards and forwards.

We will be releasing episodes every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month. So if you even slightly enjoyed listening to Help Yourself, then you'll for sure slightly enjoy Laughs Per Minute.

Ever found yourself craving a Chick-fil-A chicken sandwich only to realize you arrived during breakfast hours? That’s precisely what happened to me, leading to a surprisingly delightful discovery of chicken minis and the magic of Polynesian sauce. This episode kicks off with a philosophical reflection on the fleeting nature of time, seamlessly transitioning into a humorous recount of my fast-food adventure. We explore the emotional rollercoaster of food cravings and the unexpected joys that can emerge from unmet expectations.

Shifting gears, we dive into the mechanics of fast-food drive-thru efficiency, contrasting Chick-fil-A's sophisticated multi-threaded system with In-N-Out's streamlined simplicity. Along the way, we touch on the sentimental journey of replacing an old flask with a new, trendy hydration drink from Ghost, highlighting the playful quirks of modern beverage marketing. From homemade iced coffee mishaps to the intricacies of trademarked ingredients, this chapter offers a light-hearted yet insightful look at contemporary consumer experiences.

On a more profound note, we delve into strategies for navigating life's inevitable transitions, from job loss to retirement. Drawing from Tim Ferris’s fear setting and Jeff Goins' introspective framework, we discuss practical tools for managing change and fostering personal growth. With anecdotes ranging from bone broth substitutes to a Vietnam veteran finding joy in Call of Duty, this episode blends humor with heartfelt advice, underscoring the importance of preparation, mindset, and self-reflection in the face of life's ebb and flow.

Ever gone back for seconds at a restaurant because the food was just that good? Bryan did, with a carnitas burrito that left him craving more. Hear about his mouth-watering experience with sweet pico de gallo and homemade tortillas, and why he takes a shot of salsa with every bite. This episode kicks off with this flavor-packed anecdote and flows into a lively chat about the quirky ways people enjoy food.

From favorite indulgences like Starburst-flavored sparkling ice drinks to the art of homemade iced coffee, we journey through various food trends and preferences. Discover the peculiar love for slightly soggy tortillas and the unforgettable flavor of the custom-made "loco nut" coffee. Our discussion takes an insightful turn, reflecting on how our perspectives shape the way we view endings, whether it's the end of a day or the excitement of pre-vacation nights.

We then dive into the complexities of attachment, sparked by a viral story about a woman's overreaction at McDonald's. Explore how minor events can carry significant emotional weight and what they reveal about our broader life transitions. With a focus on career changes and organizational restructuring, we discuss how people cling to the familiar and the importance of agency in embracing new beginnings. Come laugh, reflect, and gain new insights as we navigate the intersections of food, philosophy, and life's intricate moments.

Ever wondered why Dwayne Johnson might be the perfect snack mascot? Join us for a playful feast of conversation as Bryan and Nick kick things off with some lighthearted banter before diving into their latest snacking escapades. From Bryan's surprising encounter with Trader Joe’s spicy Thai lime and chili almonds to Nick’s delicious meal featuring Monterey-spiced chicken and Kerrygold butter potatoes, this episode of "Food, Philosophy, and Snacking_tacular" is packed with tasty tidbits and health insights. Plus, don’t miss Brian’s nostalgic trip down memory lane with a Shamrock Farms strawberry protein shake that will take you back to your childhood.

Ready to be inspired? "The Man in the Arena Continuity" takes a deep dive into Theodore Roosevelt’s iconic speech, reminding us all of the importance of striving and taking action despite inevitable setbacks. We explore how every effort counts, even when things don't go perfectly. A touch of humor is added as we discuss the quirky impact of everyday sounds on our listeners, like the noise of pouring water. This segment is your motivational booster shot to keep pushing forward and engaging in life’s meaningful endeavors.

In our final chapters, "Dealing With Inner Criticism and Feedback" and "Understanding the Inner Critic," we tackle the ever-present challenge of managing criticism—from both external voices and our own inner critics. Learn how to turn that nagging internal voice into a supportive inner coach and discover strategies to combat negative self-talk. We also ponder the resilience of public figures who seem immune to widespread criticism and discuss the intriguing condition of aphantasia. By the end, you'll have practical tools to reframe your mindset, boost your self-compassion, and encourage personal growth. Tune in for a perfect blend of humor, philosophy, and actionable advice!

Can a consistent breakfast routine really simplify your life and help you manage your calories effortlessly? Join us on this flavorful journey as we explore the art of crafting the perfect breakfast sandwich, balance taste with health, and navigate the tricky world of indulgent condiments. We also step into Bryan's Beverage Corner to uncover the joys of a cheater nitro cold brew and the guilt-free pleasures of Coke Zero, all while stressing the importance of moderation. This is a tale of routine and culinary passion that might just change your mornings forever.

Ever wondered why a single Nitro cold brew can keep some people awake until the wee hours? Listen as we share hilarious coffee shop escapades, including a caffeine-induced sleepless night and the endearing frustration of an infrequent Starbucks visitor. Discover the unique charm of the Fainting Goat coffee shop with its Star Wars-themed drinks and learn why a decaf latte topped with chocolate cold foam could be your new favorite treat. These stories weave humor and insight, revealing the quirks of coffee culture and the simple joys of a well-chosen breakfast.

What does Theodore Roosevelt's wisdom have to do with modern stress and personal growth? Reflect on the timeless relevance of his words as we delve into the battle between the inner critic and the man in the arena. We'll examine the value of failure, the stress of contemporary life, and how recalibrating our reactions can lead to better outcomes. Drawing inspiration from Brene Brown's "Daring Greatly," we emphasize the importance of enthusiasm and purpose in work, and the often difficult task of accepting praise. This episode promises a rich blend of humor, practical advice, and deep reflections designed to inspire and entertain.

Embark with us, Brian and Nick, on a journey that satisfies both palate and mind, where the art of creating a high-protein pizza meets the timeless wisdom of stoicism. We're not just tossing dough here; we're tossing ideas around that will nourish your body and enrich your soul. As I divulge the secrets to crafting a guilt-free slice that's big on taste and light on calories, we'll also sip on some Coke Zero musings, reflecting on how something as simple as our beverage choices can teach us about temperance.

Our conversation takes us deeper than the crust of our homemade pizza, into the heart of stoicism and the virtues that can guide a balanced life. Imagine finding tranquility in the midst of a consumer-driven world that's constantly pushing you towards excess. We'll share insights from philosophers like Epictetus and Seneca, and discuss how applying ancient wisdom can help us navigate our modern maze of desires. From the savory layers of self-restraint to the sweet aftertaste of wisdom, we invite you to feast on thoughts that could truly transform your approach to life's indulgences and challenges.

We wrap up with a toast to wisdom, the kind that bubbles up in the face of adversity, as serene as a well-risen loaf. Recalling a cherished member of our Toastmasters club, we ponder how life experiences and reflection shape our understanding and response to the world. And as we close this session, we leave you with a parting thought: managing our expectations, much like kneading dough, can lead to a more palatable daily existence, where surprises are the delightful toppings on the pizza of life. Join us and chew on these delectable morsels of knowledge that could very well be the recipe for a more serene, virtuous existence.

Ever wondered how a kebab could lead to an epiphany about ancient philosophy? Join Bryan, Nick, and me as we embark on a gastronomic adventure that pairs delectably with the enduring wisdom of Stoicism. You're in for a savory treat of tales and musings that connect lukewarm chicken skewers and the irresistible charm of cheese curds to the stoic virtues that can anchor us in the tumult of today's world.

Peeling back the layers of our daily grind, we draw parallels between the pursuit of a meaningful life and the art of savoring a meal crafted from humble leftovers. From the quenching sips of tropical beverages to candid anecdotes spanning self-help literature to the silver screen, our exchange is peppered with humor and insights. We touch on the Stoic heavyweights—Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius—and the pillars of courage, resistance, and justice that they championed. Whether you’re a seasoned philosopher or simply curious about the stoic way, there's a seat at our table for you.

As we round off the conversation, we tackle the delicate tension between personal desires and the broader public good. With a nod to modern distractions like social media and video games, we explore the virtues of temperance and wisdom, offering a perspective that's as nourishing for the soul as the eclectic flavors discussed throughout the show. So, whether you're dishing out a late-night snack or contemplating life's bigger questions, we invite you to feast on this episode that's guaranteed to satisfy both your hunger and your intellect.

Have you ever found yourself in the heat of a pizza topping debate, staunchly defending the honor of pineapple and jalapeños? Well, you're not alone. Our latest episode is a smorgasbord of culinary conundrums and philosophical ponderings, starting with my own guilty pleasure pizza and a taste test that could save your palate from an unfortunate citrus coffee soda mishap. We chew over the joys of local dining and how our personal tastes can elevate a meal from mundane munching to a full-flavored feast of conversation.

As we move from sizzling burgers at school games to the celebrity-induced frenzy of Logan Paul's hydration drink, we touch on the ripples created by food trends and influencers. We're not just tossing around opinions on charred Brussels sprouts here; we're diving into the shared experiences and cultural shifts that dining out brings. Plus, we discuss the unexpected delight of air-fried veggies with a side of salsa verde, and the communal joy of a pizookie at BJ's Restaurant.

But we don't stop at the dinner table. The episode takes a twist into the paradoxical nature of our world, from the analysis paralysis brought on by too many choices to the elusive nature of originality in an era of AI-assisted creation. We debate whether a Civil War author's work is a tapestry of influences or a beacon of original thought, and we examine the tightrope between inspiration and imitation. Join us for a feast of ideas that will leave you savoring the flavors of thought long after the plates are cleared.

Infographic used in Episode