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This week on The Sick Burn Podcast, we’re bringing you special bonus episode: a live panel straight from San Diego Comic-Con 2025 — “I’m Me & It’s This Game’s Fault!”

Hosted by Kurosh Jozavi of Savepoint Stories, this heartfelt, funny, and sometimes surprising conversation dives into how video games shape who we are. Alongside an incredible group of panelists (including me, Thomas Craig), we explore the games that mirror our identities, forge connections, and sometimes even change the course of our lives. From nostalgia and laughter to deep reflections on memory, identity, and resilience, this panel is a reminder that play isn’t just play — it’s storytelling, it’s community, and it’s a piece of who we are.

Connect with Kurosh here:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kujoprime/

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UClmW6A6XlFTBwdK3TLSd8Jw

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1mOCnakP29UKVPExbOc1mh?si=b39679724a5d43f8

Connect with us here:

• Website: https://www.sickburnpodcast.com

• Instagram: @sickburnpod

• TikTok: @thomascraigviii

• Threads: @thomascraigviii

🎧 Mahalo for tuning in! If you enjoyed today’s bonus episode, please: • Subscribe to The Sick Burn Podcast so you never miss an episode. • Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes fun. • Share this episode with a fellow gamer or friend who loves the power of play.

Credits:

Hosted & Executive Produced by Thomas Craig VIII

Produced by Voice & Video – Bill Lanzarotta

Audio Engineer – Mickey Dixon

Edited by – Lizi Bronson

Graphics by – Jeff Lee

Special Thanks – Rosey Flores & Kurosh Jozavi, Savepoint Stories, & San Diego Comic-Con

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the participants and do not necessarily represent those of The Sick Burn Podcast, its affiliates, or any organizations we are associated with. This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

#SickBurnPodcast #SDCC2025 #ComicConPanel #SavepointStories #GamingCommunity #HealingThroughgames #Gaming #StorytellingThroughGames #VideoGameStories #ImMeAndItsThisGamesFault

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At first glance, G. Michael Hopf is a USA Today bestselling author. But behind the shelves of books lies a life shaped by combat, childhood trauma, and the pursuit of identity. A former U.S. Marine, now husband and father, Michael’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and the courage to embrace his true self.

In this conversation, we talk about the struggles of finding identity, the scars of loss, reframing pain into perspective, and the freedom that comes when you finally own your story. From battlefield lessons to the written word, Michael shows us that resilience isn’t just about surviving hardship — it’s about transforming it into meaning.

1. Intro to Geoff / Creating the G. Michael Hopf Pen Name – 00:00:44

2. Becoming a Brand and Owning the Title 'Artist' – 00:02:18

3. Writing Apocalyptic Fiction and His First Novel – 00:03:44

4. Early Struggles with Identity and Childhood Bullying – 00:07:43

5. Losing His Father and Learning from Loss – 00:16:26

6. Back Injury, Debilitating Pain, and Forced Surrender – 00:25:02

7. Spiritual Breakthrough and Unexpected Healing – 00:29:16

8. Shifting from Force to Flow & Letting Go of Attachment – 00:35:04

9. Tony Robbins Event and Life-Altering Perspective Shift – 00:38:05

10. What Gives Him the Most Peace Today – Family and Harmony at Home – 01:09:12

Connect with Geoff here:

• Website: https://www.gmichaelhopf.com/

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GMichaelHopf

• Publishing Co.: https://www.beyondthefraypublishing.com/

Sick Burn Links:

• Check out our website: sickburnpodcast.com

• Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sickburnpod/

• Threads: @thomascraigviii

Mahalo for tuning in! If you enjoyed today's episode, please: • Subscribe to our podcast to never miss an episode.

• Follow us on social media to stay updated with our latest content and behind-the-scenes fun! We love hearing from our listeners! If you have any feedback, questions, or just want to chat about the episode, email us at thomas@sickburnpodcast.com or send us a message on Instagram.

Credits: Hosted & Executive Produced by Thomas Craig VIII. Guest Appearance by Geoff Michael Hopf. Produced by Voice & Video – Bill Lanzaratto. Audio Engineering by Mickey. Edited by Lizi Bronson. Graphics by Jeff Lee. Special thanks for their invaluable work: Rosie Flores

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the participants and do not necessarily represent those of The Sick Burn Podcast, its affiliates, or any organizations we are associated with. This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

#SickBurnPodcast #GMichaelHopf #MarineVeteran #BestsellingAuthor #Resilience #TraumaRecovery #MensMentalHealth #HealingJourney #OvercomingLoss #PerspectiveShift #SurvivorStories #Inspiration

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Joe Dimeo’s life changed forever after a devastating car crash at just 18 years old that left him with burns over 80% of his body. In 2020, he became the first person in the world to survive a face and double hand transplant — a true medical miracle that gave him a second chance at life.

But Joe’s story isn’t only about surviving the impossible. It’s about unshakable confidence, resilience, and how sharing his journey online led to an unexpected connection — meeting his now-wife, Jessica. His story is one of resilience, hope, and redefining what it means to live a good life.

Mahalo for joining us, Joe 🤙🏽 Let’s dive into his extraordinary story—

1. Intro to Joe – [00:00:38]

2. The day of the accident and waking from coma – [00:02:05]

3. Coma dreams and a peaceful afterlife moment – [00:05:29]

4. Losing independence and returning home – [00:09:36]

5. Finding motivation and routine through his dog – [00:11:19]

6. Dozens of surgeries and the path to transplant – [00:16:38]

7. Getting approved for and receiving face and hand transplants – [00:20:02]

8. Regaining small freedoms and adapting to new limitations – [00:25:07]

9. Confidence, community, and reclaiming public spaces – [00:35:32]

10. Biggest life lesson: gratitude for what you have – [00:49:59]

Connect with Joe here:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/80percentgone/reels/

• Website: https://www.80percentgone.com/

• Merch: https://80percentgone.shop/

Links:
Sick Burn Links:

• Website: ⁠⁠https://www.sickburnpodcast.com⁠⁠

• Instagram: ⁠⁠@sickburnpod⁠⁠

• Threads: ⁠@thomascraigviii⁠

• TikTok: ⁠ @ThomasCraigVIII ⁠

Mahalo for tuning in! If you enjoyed today's episode, please:

• Subscribe to our podcast to never miss an episode.

• Follow us on social media to stay updated with our latest content and behind-the-scenes fun! We love hearing from our listeners! If you have any feedback, questions, or just want to chat about the episode, email us at thomas@sickburnpodcast.com or send us a message on Instagram.

Credits:

Hosted & Executive Produced by Thomas Craig VIII.

Guest Appearance by Joe DiMeo.

Produced by Voice & Video – Bill Lanzaratto.

Audio Engineering by Mickey.

Edited by Lizi Bronson.

Graphics by Jeff Lee.

Special thanks for their invaluable work: Rosie Flores

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the participants and do not necessarily represent those of The Sick Burn Podcast, its affiliates, or any organizations we are associated with. This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

#SickBurnPodcast #JoeDiMeo #Resilience #FaceTransplant #HandTransplant #BurnSurvivor #Inspiration #PodcastEpisode #ListenNow #SurvivorStories #MedicalMiracle #Confidence #LoveStory #nevergiveup

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Kevin Mokuahi’s story is a powerful reminder that resilience isn’t about never falling — it’s about getting back up, again and again, with more heart, more humor, and more hope than ever before. As a Parkinson’s advocate, endurance cyclist, and community leader, Kevin brings an incredible perspective on what it means to live fully, even in the aftermath of a life-altering diagnosis.

In this episode, we talk about navigating identity after trauma, the role of community in healing, and the power of faith. Kevin’s unshakable spirit and honesty will leave you inspired and ready to face your own battles with a little more courage.

Connect with Kevin here:

• Instagram: @justride_hawaii

•Website: https://partners.ketone.com/MOKUAHI

1. Introduction to Daniel & His Mission – [00:01:02]

2. Personal Loss as Catalyst – [00:05:32]

3. The Message of Ten Minutes to Live – [00:07:29]

4. Brave Stories, Shared Publicly for the First Time – [00:08:27]

5. Practical Prevention: Safe Homes Save Lives – [00:10:01]

6. Finding Purpose After Darkness – [00:17:27]

7. The Power of a Friend Who Listens – [00:41:49]

8. Addressing Men’s Mental Health & Veteran Struggles – [00:31:00]

9. Healing While Creating – [00:23:27]

10. The Ending Is Yours to Write – [01:09:35]

Sick Burn Links:

• Website: ⁠https://www.sickburnpodcast.com⁠

• Instagram: ⁠@sickburnpod⁠

• Threads: @thomascraigviii

• TikTok: ⁠ @ThomasCraigVIII ⁠ Mahalo for tuning in! If you enjoyed today's episode, please:

• Subscribe to our podcast to never miss an episode.

• Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes moments. We love hearing from you!

• For feedback or to share your story, email us at thomas@sickburnpodcast.com or send a message on Instagram.

Credits:

Hosted & Executive Produced by Thomas Craig VIII

Produced by Voice & Video – Bill Lanzarotta

Audio Engineer – Mickey Dixon

Edited by Lizi Bronson

Graphics by Jeff Lee

Special Thanks – Rosie Flores

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the participants and do not necessarily represent those of The Sick Burn Podcast, its affiliates, or any associated organizations. This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

#SickBurnPodcast #KevinMokuahi #ParkinsonsAwareness #ResilienceStories #NeverGiveUp #CyclingForACause #HawaiiStrong #EnduranceAthlete #LiveFully #MovementIsMedicine #RollingWithParkinsons #PodcastWithPurpose #InspirationDaily #RealPeopleRealStories #rollingwithparkinsons #pedalingforparkinsonshi #nevergiveup #hawaiiparkinsonassociation #cycling #movementismedicine #fightthegoodfight #blessed

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Dr. Daniel E. Kennedy’s work is proof that storytelling can be a lifeline for people in their darkest moments. As a Doctor of Social Work, Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, and award-winning filmmaker, Daniel has dedicated his career to using film as a tool for healing, hope, and social change.

His latest documentary, 10 Minutes 2 Live, is a powerful exploration of suicide, survival, and the courage it takes to keep living.In this episode, we talk about the role of storytelling in suicide prevention, why listening can be the most powerful act of all, and how compassion can save lives. From mental health advocacy to creative purpose, Daniel shows us that when we speak openly, we help others feel less alone.

🎬 Watch the Documentary & Share Your Feedback!

We’re excited to share a private link to watch the full documentary, 10 Minutes 2 Live, before it’s released.Daniel and his research team invite you to complete a short pre- and post-viewing survey to help them understand the film’s impact. The survey is anonymous, and your feedback is greatly appreciated.

Here’s how it works:

1️⃣ Start the survey- here:https://ucsd.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4Jjvqnp8uQyqy6W

2️⃣ After the first part of the survey, you’ll get a link and password to watch the documentary.

3️⃣ Once you finish watching, return to the survey link to complete the post-survey.If you accidentally close the survey before finishing, you can use the same link above to pick up where you left off.

Thank you for taking the time to watch and share your thoughts—it means a lot to the team behind 10 Minutes 2 Live.

1. Intro to Daniel & His Mission – [00:01:02]

2. Personal Loss as Catalyst – [00:05:32]

3. The Origins and Purpose of Ten Minutes to Live – [00:07:29]

4. Reducing Access & Creating Safe Homes – [00:10:01]

5. The Courage of Vulnerable Storytelling – [00:08:27]

6. Stories of Survival and Service – [00:17:27]

7. Connection as a Lifeline – [00:41:49]

8. Men’s Mental Health and Veteran Experiences – [00:31:00]

9. The Unexpected Healing Power of Filmmaking – [00:23:27]

10. Press Pause, Change the Ending – [01:09:35]

Sick Burn Links:

• Website: ⁠⁠https://www.sickburnpodcast.com⁠⁠

• Instagram: ⁠⁠@sickburnpod⁠

⁠⁠⁠• Threads:⁠https://www.threads.net/@thomascraigviii⁠

• TikTok:⁠@thomascraigviii⁠

Mahalo for tuning in! If you enjoyed today's episode, please:

• Subscribe to our podcast to never miss an episode.

• Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes moments. We love hearing from you!

For feedback or to share your story, email us at thomas@sickburnpodcast.com or send a message on Instagram.

Credits:

Hosted & Executive Produced by Thomas Craig VIII

Produced by Voice & Video – Bill Lanzarotta

Audio Engineer – Mickey Dixon

Edited by Lizi Bronson

Graphics by Jeff Lee

Special Thanks – Rosie Flores

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the participants and do not necessarily represent those of The Sick Burn Podcast, its affiliates, or any associated organizations. This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

#SickBurnPodcast #DanielEKennedy #10Minutes2Li

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Gabe Estrada’s story is proof that passion and perseverance can take you farther than you ever imagined. After immigrating from Mexico, Gabe built a life rooted in family, drive, and creativity. By day, he’s an attorney and business owner. By night, he’s become one of the world’s most respected Star Wars collectors and creators — channeling his love of the galaxy far, far away into a community that inspires thousands.

In this episode, we talk about humble beginnings, the hustle it takes to chase big dreams, and how fandom can become a powerful force for connection and purpose. From fatherhood to lightsabers, Gabe shows us what’s possible when you stay true to your passions and just do it.

Connect with Gabe here:

• Instagram: ⁠⁠@Gabesempire⁠

•TikTok: ⁠@Gabesempire⁠

• YouTube: ⁠⁠ @StarWarsReplicas ⁠

•Website: ⁠beacons.ai/gabesempire⁠

1. Intro to Gabe – [00:00:46]

2. Immigrating, Learning English, and Early Responsibility – [00:03:33]

3. Growing Up with Scarcity and Discovering Entrepreneurship – [00:08:14]

4. Teen Years: Near Miss with Gangs and Finding Music – [00:17:16]

5. Young Adulthood: Early Parenthood and the Grind – [00:28:14]

6. Starting Over and Building the Tattoo Shop – [01:00:25]

7. Trusting Instincts and Embracing Imperfection – [01:09:39]

8. Returning to School, Law School Pivot, and Bar Exam – [01:15:17]

9. Finding His American Dream in Family and Star Wars – [01:34:22]

Links:

• Website: ⁠⁠https://www.sickburnpodcast.com⁠⁠

• Instagram: ⁠⁠@sickburnpod⁠⁠

• Threads: ⁠@thomascraigviii⁠

• TikTok: ⁠@thomascraigviii⁠

Mahalo for tuning in! If you enjoyed today's episode, please:

• Subscribe to our podcast to never miss an episode.

• Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes moments. We love hearing from you!

• For feedback or to share your story, email us at ⁠thomas@sickburnpodcast.com⁠ or send a message on Instagram.

Credits:

Hosted & Executive Produced by Thomas Craig VIII Produced by Voice & Video – Bill Lanzarotta Audio Engineer – Mickey Dixon Edited by Lizi Bronson Graphics by Jeff Lee Special Thanks – Rosie Flores

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the participants and do not necessarily represent those of The Sick Burn Podcast, its affiliates, or any associated organizations. This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

#SickBurnPodcast #GabeEstrada #StarWars #AmericanDream #Resilience #ImmigrantStory #FandomCulture #Collecting #PopCulture #immigrants #PodcastEpisode #hope

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After losing his wife to cancer, Danny Lesslie found himself in a season of unlayering—grief, job loss, financial hardship, and the weight of fatherhood all hitting at once. But instead of shutting down, Danny chose to move with meaning. In this episode, we talk about what happens when everything you cling to for stability is stripped away, how faith shaped his healing, and what it means to rebuild from the inside out. Danny’s story is one of heartbreak, honesty, and the quiet strength that comes from walking through the fire—and still choosing purpose.

Connect with Danny here:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momentumwithdanny/

•Book: ⁠https://bluehatpublishing.com/products/thank-you-cancer-by-raffaella-dobles-and-danny-lesslie?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaetOHkgiIUHinErSv-lXViYxyyafLFhS8pqtX-u1iKe3pQh0x0OLKiKXqtT0A_aem_3O5DYCWHlo1c_XUCo-KzVQ

•Website: https://stan.store/dannylesslie

Mahalo for joining us, Danny 🤙🏽 Let’s dive into his extraordinary story —

1. Intro to Danny & His Family – [00:01:02:18]

2.The loss of his wife and life after grief – [00:04:23:09]

3. The unlayering: jobs, house, identity – [00:09:31:00]

4. Faith, fatherhood, and spiritual grounding – [00:15:04:16]

5. Purpose through pain and meaningful movement – [00:21:44:05]

6. Creating space for honesty and healing – [00:29:58:11]

7. What he hopes other men and dads hear in this story – [00:37:12:07]

8. Final thoughts on rebuilding, love, and letting go – [00:42:46:03]

Links:

• Website: https://www.sickburnpodcast.com

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sickburnpod

• Threads: https://www.threads.net/@thomascraigviii

• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@UCJRZua2ARAljU61dn5YcOZg

Mahalo for tuning in! If you enjoyed today's episode, please:

• Subscribe to our podcast to never miss an episode.

• Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes moments.

We love hearing from you! For feedback or to share your story, email us at thomas@sickburnpodcast.com or send a message on Instagram.

Credits:

Hosted & Executive Produced by Thomas Craig VIII

Produced by Voice & Video – Bill Lanzarotta

Audio Engineer – Mickey Dixon

Edited by Lizi Bronson

Graphics by Jeff Lee

Special Thanks – Rosie Flores

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the participants and do not necessarily represent those of The Sick Burn Podcast, its affiliates, or any associated organizations. This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

Tags: #SickBurnPodcast #DannyLesslie #Grief #Faith #Purpose #MentalHealth #Healing #Widower #Fatherhood #Rebuilding #InspirationalStory #Resilience #ChristianFaith #PodcastEpisode #EmotionalHealing #SpiritualJourney #LosingALovedOne #GirlDad #LifeAfterLoss #SickBurn

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At just 17 years old, Garrison Redd’s life changed in an instant. But that moment didn’t stop him — it became the beginning of a new mission. Today, Garrison is a Paralympian, elite powerlifter, Team USA adaptive climber, motivational speaker, author, and an advocate for purpose-driven life.

In this episode, Garrison shares how he found strength after a spinal cord injury, built a career at the highest levels of powerlifting, climbing, and fashion, and turned his journey into a mission to help others. His story is a powerful reminder that purpose often comes from the hardest moments, and resilience is built one rep, one climb, and one choice at a time.

Connect with Garrison here:

• Website: https://garrisonredd.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAac-LYLGhzeCoIArdr2-h6gJZsbFLJkmYZ088TwqfoukTby-evGUWGFZyKWtxw_aem_fw5ZFcdSmOtcDS9yL6r6NA

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garrisonredd/

• Redds Denim: https://www.instagram.com/reddsdenim/

• Charity: https://www.instagram.com/thegarrisonreddproject/

Mahalo for joining us, Garrison 🤙🏽 Let’s dive into her extraordinary story-

1. Intro to Garrison – [00:00:30:05]

2. The shooting and spinal cord injury – [00:02:54:17]

3. Processing the aftermath and emotional struggle – [00:10:51:02]

4. His mom's push for independence and mindset shift – [00:15:35:22]

5. Rebuilding confidence through school, friendships, and fashion – [00:21:19:14] 6. Leaving his government job to pursue purpose – [00:42:49:00]

7. TEDx Talk, modeling, and first viral opportunities – [00:46:36:03]

8. Getting back into athletics and discovering powerlifting – [00:55:02:24]

9. Joining Team USA for powerlifting and climbing – [01:01:02:22]

10. Purpose, mentoring others, and current competitions – [01:10:16:26]

Links:

• Check out our website: sickburnpodcast.com

• Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sickburnpod...

• Threads: https://www.threads.net/@thomascraigviii

Mahalo for tuning in! If you enjoyed today's episode, please:

• Subscribe to our podcast to never miss an episode.

• Follow us on social media to stay updated with our latest content and behind-the-scenes fun! We love hearing from our listeners!

If you have any feedback, questions, or just want to chat about the episode, email us at thomas@sickburnpodcast.com or send us a message on Instagram!

Credits: Hosted & Executive Produced by Thomas Craig VIII. Guest Appearance by Garrison. Produced by Voice & Video- Bill Lanzaratto, Audio Engineer by Mickey. Edited by Lizi Bronson. Graphics by Jeff Lee. Special Thanks for their invaluable work, Rosie Flores.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the participants and do not necessarily represent those of "The Sick Burn Podcast," its affiliates, or any organizations we are associated with. This podcast for entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

#SickBurnPodcast #Paralympics #Powerlifting #TeamUSAClimber #AdaptiveAthlete #SpinalCordInjury #Resilience #Motivation #OvercomingAdversity #MentalHealth #Purpose #InspirationalStory #AthleteMindset #AdaptiveSports #Paralympian #MotivationalSpeaker #DisabilityAdvocate #PersonalGrowth #MindsetShift #Climbing #PowerliftingJourney #HealingJourney #LifeAfterInjury #podcastepisode

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