Help Yourself!

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

Have you ever pondered the puzzles life throws at you, or how a simple dish like 'egg rice' could spark a philosophical debate? Well, buckle up, because our latest episode traverses the culinary landscape of leftovers, touches on the sweet allure of Starbucks treats, and dives headfirst into the paradoxes that keep our minds spinning. From my kitchen to yours, I reveal the secret spices that transform yesterday's rice into today's breakfast champion, and we explore whether this comfort food has the chops to become a restaurant's crowning glory. With a sprinkle of humor and a dash of self-reflection, we unwrap the enigmas of everyday life that often wear the mask of common sense. As we dissect modern paradoxes, from the impact of reading on personal identity to the intricacies of skill and luck in our endeavors, the conversation is peppered with real-world anecdotes that'll have you nodding along or scratching your head in wonder. Even our podcast transitions, a source of comedic pain, get a moment in the spotlight, as we acknowledge the beauty in the struggle to find the perfect ending to our rambling beginnings. As we reach the apex of our chat, decision-making takes center stage—will it be the egg bites or the shaken espresso? Just kidding. It's about tackling the real-life conundrum of overthinking and the strategies to overcome it. Wrapping up, we tease your appetite for intellectual debate with a hint at the paradox of originality, ensuring the conversation continues beyond today. So, join us as we laugh, ponder, and maybe even change the way you see the world with each episode. No cliffhangers here—just the promise of more enthralling talks to come. Infographic Used in Episode

Have you ever wondered if the Crunchwrap Supreme could hold the secrets to time travel? Feast your ears on our latest episode where we embark on a journey from the inventive culinary twists of Taco Bell to the enigmatic corridors of time itself. Our adventure begins with a lighthearted debate over the Grilled Cheese Steak Burrito's rightful place in the pantheon of Mexican cuisine, leading us into a nostalgic reflection on fast food's evolving landscape. But don't let the playful banter fool you; we're serving up a hearty discussion that will leave you hungering for more than just a value meal. Prepare for a thought-provoking ride as we ponder whether time travelers could be subtly influencing our present or if UFOs are just tourists from our own future. We weave through the fabric of time, pulling at threads from art, fiction, and the very nature of existence. Our conversation takes flight with wild theories and the humorous musings of comedian Nate Bargatze, before posing the tantalizing question: where would you go if you could traverse the epochs at will? Join us for this metaphysical feast, and you might just find yourself craving a side of enlightenment with your nachos. In the final stretch of our temporal odyssey, we turn introspective, examining how the daily rituals we practice are the true vessels that carry us forward. We share personal stories and insights on the profound impact of habits, inspiring you to craft a future filled with intentionality rather than regret. By the end of this episode, we aim to leave you motivated to scrutinize your daily actions with a fresh perspective. So, buckle up, snack in hand, as we explore the intersection of fast food, fleeting moments, and the enduring journey through time.

Savor a PB and J-Witch with me, Bryan, as we embark on an auditory adventure through the essence of time, tinged with the flavors of nostalgia and anticipation. This episode is a tapestry of tastes and thoughts, where I, alongside my friend Nick, venture from a childhood classic snack into the realm of time travel and sentiment. I even take my first sip of Cheerwine, a fizzy reminder that our simplest delights can serve as anchors to the present and portals to the past. Our dialogue meanders through the subjectivity of time, examining how emotions and physical experiences mold its perception. Imagine watching a live event unfold, yet it feels different depending on your time zone—the relativity of time at play. We share stories; I tell you about approaching the age my father was when he passed and how it shapes my daily countdown. Our conversation unearths the profound impact of psychological constructs on the way we navigate life's routines and the distortion of time during heightened states like driving. As our cup overflows with curiosity, we probe the connection between fear and the stretching of time, inspired by scientific studies and the philosophies of authors like Eckhart Tolle. We dissect how the pursuit of new experiences can synchronize our subjective time with the vibrancy of life, making the case for embracing change and self-improvement. And, as a parting gift, we tease the brain-tickling topic of our next bonus episode on time travel. Prepare to have your thoughts on PB and J—and time itself—forever altered.

Ever wondered if the juiciness of a chicken thigh trumps the classic breast in a spicy sandwich? Join us as we embark on a culinary expedition, tasting our way through the spicy chicken sandwich landscape, with a side of light-hearted banter about our own quirky food rules and preferences. Bryan even reveals his unexpected take on the age-old tater tots versus french fries debate, firing up a discussion on how personal tastes can lead to surprising conversations and revelations. But it's not all about the chicken—we're sipping on "hustler juice" and diving headfirst into the indulgent world of Taco Bell's larger-than-life offerings. As we reminisce about Glenn Bell's legacy and the evolution of our fast-food favorites, we also find ourselves reflecting on our dietary convictions. From Starbucks customization to the pull of default choices, we uncover the philosophy buried in our everyday fast food experiences, sharing laughs and insights along the way. Time to switch gears and talk time—how we perceive it, how it shapes us, and how, sometimes, it downright confuses us. From the linear progression of events to the cyclical patterns in life and the universe, we navigate through the philosophical and psychological mazes of time. We touch on COVID-19 as our new temporal milestone and even dip our toes into the effects of relativity on time, ensuring our listeners leave with their minds buzzing and perhaps, just maybe, a new way to view their next chicken sandwich.

Discover the art of culinary reinvention and personal growth as we take a whimsical journey from kitchen to character development. This episode is a veritable feast for the soul, steeped in the rich broth of history and spiced with the zest of self-improvement. Gather 'round as I recount transforming holiday leftovers into a delightful ham and corn chowder, a tradition rooted in the pragmatic gastronomy of the Great Depression. Then, we'll meander through the curious alleys of perpetual stews and nursery rhymes, finding resourcefulness in the most unexpected places. Taking a break from the simmering pot, our conversation shifts to the exploration of life's flavors and fears. I'll share my offbeat encounter with buffalo wing soda and a chili that’s a symphony of chocolate, cinnamon, and beans, challenging the palate with the unexpected. We'll also dive into the essence of motivation, arming ourselves with strategies like 'fear setting' to confront our trepidations head-on. Listen as I detail a Toastmasters Club experience that proves with a plan in hand, the once-daunting task of facing our fears becomes a well-chartered journey. As we near the end of our time together, we don't shy away from the weightier ingredients of life's stew. We tackle the overarching struggle with burnout, perfectionism, and aligning work with values, stirring in anecdotes and insights to motivate and ground you. The episode is ladled with pearls of wisdom on managing overwhelm, the fortitude of support systems, and the significance of gratitude. There's no recipe too complex, no ambition too grand, as we serve up a blend of nourishing thoughts and energizing encouragement to inspire your next steps, both in the kitchen and beyond.

Ever found yourself meticulously perfecting a breakfast biscuit, only to have it spark dreams of your own eatery? That's exactly where our conversation starts in our latest episode, as we whisk you away on a gastronomic and philosophical quest, revealing the simple joys and aspirations that can arise from the kitchen. Join us as we sip on the curiosity of a root beer-flavored ancient mushroom elixir and muse over the significance of hydration in our daily lives—because every dreamer needs to stay quenched. Struggling with motivation can feel like an endless battle, but we're here to navigate these choppy waters together. Our chat meanders from eco-conscious choices like going straw-free to the siren call of French fries, sharing laughs and confessions along the way. We lay bare the challenges of staying driven, whether it's the year-end blues or the daunting leap to decaf. Through stories and insights, we aim to offer comfort and strategies for those feeling stuck in the same rut. As our episode unfolds, we explore the transformative powers of habit formation and the subtle art of patience in personal growth. Our journey isn't just about reaching the destination—it's also about embracing the small, daily actions that culminate in triumphs over time. So tune in, as we extend an invitation to continue this exploration in future episodes, with the promise of uncovering more strategies to fuel your drive and keep you moving forward.

Ready to spice up your food palette? We kick off the episode by teleporting your taste buds to the vibrant flavors of Cajun and Creole cuisine, courtesy of a Zatarain's frozen meal. As I (the host) savor this satisfying delight, we journey through the rich history of these culinary styles and share why hydration plays a crucial role in your daily life. As we glide into the holiday spirit, we unravel the psychology behind gift-giving during celebratory occasions such as Christmas, Diwali, and Hanukkah. What's the story behind your generosity? We shine a spotlight on the interplay between gratitude and giving, nudging you to acknowledge the smallest acts of kindness that often go unnoticed. For the volunteers among us, we delve into recognizing and thanking you for your contributions, whether big or small. We round off the episode by expressing our gratitude to you, our listeners. Your engagement and feedback are what keep us going, so don't hesitate to drop us an email with your suggestions for future topics. As we look forward to 2024, we promise an hour of captivating content per episode, designed to inspire and arouse your curiosity. So, join us as we continue to explore various facets of life, culture, and more in our upcoming episodes!

Ever wondered how breakfast creations could lead us to enlightened conversations on our mindsets, generosity, and the pure joy of giving? Picture this - a deliciously decadent sausage avocado toast sprinkled with charisma, a dash of humor, and a heaping spoonful of philosophy. As our breakfast sizzles and the aroma fills the room, we're spinning the conversation to the virtues of giving and thankfulness. As the holiday season approaches, we share our thoughts on "shrinkflation" and hoarding, and we unravel how generosity can shift our mindset to a happier, healthier space. Our morning meal takes us on a journey through the intriguing territories of scarcity and abundance mindsets. Get ready to challenge your perceptions as we spotlight Carol Dweck's growth mindset and its alignment with an abundance mindset. We also lay bare the signs of a scarcity mindset and its impact on our giving. Our discussion underlines the significance of not being focused on outcomes, but giving freely and generously from a place of abundance and gratitude. We round off our breakfast discourse by exploring the broader impact of generosity on the world. With a strong cup of Nespresso coffee in hand, we probe into the concept of unconditional giving, asking if it truly results in the positive outcomes we assume. We also tease you with a sneak peek into our upcoming episode, "The Spectrum of Generosity." So, pull up a chair, grab your toast and coffee, and tune in as we cook up some food for thought on generosity, abundance, and the art of giving without expecting anything in return.

What if a simple road trip could reveal the hidden complexities of trust and relationships? Settle into our mobile studio as we hit the road, gulping down Starbucks' decadent offerings and crunching on our favorite junk food while unraveling the intricacies of trust. We'll be your guides, leading you on a journey through the mouthwatering delights of pizza joints and our own surprising encounter with Lester Fixins ranch dressing soda. It's not all about the food though, we promise, your heart will be full too. On the more serious side of things, we'll be treading the delicate path of trust, expectations, and how these intertwine in our relationships. You'll gain insight into the emotional bank account theory, and how it recommends making regular trust deposits to maintain a healthy relationship. We'll also shed light on renowned psychologist John Gottman’s theory on "turning towards, turning against, and turning away" as a tool for strengthening bonds. So gear up for a ride that's not just about feeding your stomach, but nurturing your soul and relationships too. Let's hit the road together!

Have you ever thought about the role trust plays in every facet of our lives, or the pivotal role of a road trip destination in shaping your journey? This episode unravels the intriguing concept of trust, from personal relationships to professional environments. We also take you on a virtual sojourn to Bucky's, a gas station that promises more than just fuel - scrumptious full restaurant offerings, spotless restrooms, and the irresistible aroma of fresh baked goodies, including the Texas-modified Czech pastry, coloches. The journey doesn't end here. We pull back the curtain on the essentials of building trust in work relationships and share insights on giving and receiving constructive criticism, drawing from our experiences in the Toastmasters environment. Ever tried an enchilada soda or a jalapeno beer? We bring you a taste test from Bucky's exotic beverage menu and much more. As we wrap up, we delve into the essence of transparency, trust, and effective communication in the professional world. Harness the power of micromanaging to get to know your new team members and build trust. Discover the art of active listening and why it's a game-changer in professional settings. If you're curious about the quirkiest soda flavors or eager to navigate the complexities of trust in relationships, you're in for a treat. Join us for this enlightening episode!

Ever wondered how a crab boil dinner could bring to light the intricate layers of trust in our lives? We did too, and that's why in this week's episode, we've peeled back the layers of trust, just like those crustaceans, to bring you an in-depth exploration of a concept we often take for granted. We've all had those instances where we've placed our faith in someone or something only to be let down – it's the price we pay for being human, but it's also a catalyst for growth and self-discovery. As we journey through the complexities of trust, we consider its many forms – from the casual trust we place on a barista to get our order right, to the more profound trust we place in our relationships and in ourselves. We take a philosophical approach, connecting trust, truth, and faith and sharing our thoughts on how our tendencies to either trust too much or not enough can be a reflection of our strengths. In this episode, we also share a rather humorous memory of a crab boil experience during a recent vacation. The process of eating crab, the unique restaurant atmosphere, and the unforgettable beverages from a candy store all weave into our discussion on trust in unexpected ways. We cannot promise that you will master the art of eating crab by the end of this episode, but we guarantee a thought-provoking conversation about trust that might just change the way you approach relationships and life itself. Tune in!

Remember those long road trips packed with a variety of butterscotch flavored snacks, or the unforgettable thrill of a Red Hot Chili Peppers concert? We do. And we’re taking you along for a trip down memory lane as we discuss the subtle philosophy inherent in these experiences. In our latest podcast, we journey through the complexities of Stoicism and Hedonism, drawing surprising connections with Eddie Murphy's standup, and addressing a listener's poignant question about love versus apathy. Pleasure-seeking often gets a bad rap, but it doesn't have to be that way. We argue for finding a harmonious balance, where the pursuit of joy intertwines with life’s other necessities. We also tackle the concept of finding playfulness in the seriousness of work, something that has often helped us maintain a balanced perspective during stressful times. Whether it's embracing the 'free spirit' mentality or challenging the norms of homeowners associations, we probe the spectrum of life and the quest for equilibrium. Lastly, we delve into the transformative power of play and gamification, a subject close to our hearts. We believe play can boost creativity, stimulate the mind, and even heal emotional wounds. Explore how the famous Mary Poppins adage, “A spoonful of sugar makes the medicine go down,” applies to life's challenges and the pursuit of happiness. And, of course, we couldn’t end the episode without discussing the importance of sleep - the ultimate pleasure! Join us as we blend humor, philosophy, and the pursuit of a well-balanced life.

Ever wonder about the philosophy behind your breakfast choices? Bryan and Nick take you through a culinary journey in this episode of "Help Yourself". Bryan and Nick start off with a simple yet innovative breakfast sandwich recipe inspired by Bryan's wife and McDonald's' circular egg trick. Picture this: a dozen eggs, baked to perfection and paired with turkey sausage and thin slices of cheddar cheese on an English muffin. Oh, and did Bryan and Nick mention Moon Cheese? It's our latest crunchy obsession that Bryan and Nick can't get enough of! But Bryan and Nick don't stop at just food. They navigate the concept of hedonism, its definitions and its implications, especially in terms of food choices. Also the thrills of instant gratification but also the lasting impact of long-term pleasure. Bryan and Nick examine hedonism through an ethical lens and challenge the idea that pleasure can only be sought through selfish means. And of course, what's a discussion about hedonism without looking at the hedonistic treadmill, the never-ending pursuit of pleasure? Bryan and Nick discuss the potential dangers and benefits of this treadmill in our lives. Is constant pleasure-seeking a path to happiness or just a ticket for an endless ride? They wonder if pain, pleasure and the choice some people make to live a life of sacrifice are all interlinked. As Bryan and Nick wrap things up, they emphasize the role of good habits in maintaining an upward spiral and achieving our goals. So, sit back, enjoy your breakfast sandwich, and let's embark on this hedonistic journey together.

Have you ever wondered how a breakfast quesadilla could kick start your day? Join us as we reveal the secret recipe to our morning delight — a quesadilla packed with snack-sized tortillas, egg white patties, turkey sausage, thin slice cheese, and a dash of hot sauce. But the culinary journey doesn't stop there. We also delve into the world of breakfast burritos, comparing homemade, fast-food, and hipster versions, while highlighting some shocking facts about their sodium content. And for that midday hunger pang, we've got you covered with beef jerky and a king-size Payday bar. Is your life a whirlwind of chaos and you can't seem to find order? We've got insights on how to harness the seemingly overwhelming chaos and create a sense of order. We share personal strategies like decluttering for 32 days straight and the screens-off-at-10pm rule. If you're a control freak, you'll love our conversation about using chaos to your advantage. But we also stress the importance of creating order for children without stifling their creativity and independence. Life is all about balance, isn't it? In our final segment, we discuss the delicate equilibrium of homeostasis. Learn how simple table topics can help us navigate chaos and ensure mental clarity. Listen as we dissect the role of stress and how it serves its purpose in maintaining the balance between chaos and order. Some might even say that our physical environment mirrors our mental state. So, join us on this enlightening episode as we explore the symbiosis between our surroundings and our state of mind. Let's find that balance together.

Ever been tempted by the delectable allure of a college dining hall, or wondered if chaos is actually the secret to an unexpected order in life? We sure have! On this riveting episode of "Food and Philosophy with Bryan and Nick," we turn our culinary and philosophical lens onto the often-overlooked world of campus dining and grapple with the strange dance between order and chaos in our lives. Starting off with our own experiences - Bryan's encounter with a sour cherry sparkling drink and Nick's four-meal binge at Jet's Pizza - we get candid about college food, the infamous 'Freshman 15,' and the unexpected adventures that come with dorm dining. But it's not all about food! We also delve into the tumultuous yet intriguing relationship between chaos and order, drawing references from the movie "Stranger Than Fiction," and even exploring how the pillars of self-esteem can shape our response to unpredictability. Finally, we strip back the layers of subjectivity around chaos and order. We unpack how the pursuit of order can sometimes spiral into chaos, and how the unpredictability of chaos can, paradoxically, give us a sense of control. Using the lens of technology, we look at how platforms like TikTok can be a catalyst for chaos. We end the episode by embracing the chaos that life throws at us, contemplating over an enlightening article that provides 12 reasons to do so, and mull over the importance of taking action and creating healthy self-narratives. Embark on this ponderous journey with us as we navigate the chaotic yet delicious world of food and philosophy!

Are you ready to fill your mind and stomach? Join us as we dish out an episode that's both a feast for the ears and a banquet for the brain. We begin by swapping stories about our lunch choices, and Brian dives into his exploits in kombucha tasting, from watermelon wonder to glorious guava. But not everything is as it seems, like our organic lemonade that turns out to be a mere 12% juice! Now, imagine finding comfort in the midst of chaos. That's the mental meal we serve up next as we talk about the balance between order and chaos. We touch on the fight against entropy, the subjective nature of control, and how a little disorder can sometimes spark innovation. Tune in as we explore how understanding something can shift your perception of chaos, potentially leading to less stress and more progress. Our final course leads us to the world of leadership and personal growth, where we take inspiration from figures like Steve Jobs to discuss how breaking away from the familiar can pave the way for change. Is a life devoid of chaos even possible? Do we need a sprinkle of it to shake up our habits? We end our banquet with a look back at our podcast journey, serving up insights and reflections about our growth as hosts and storytellers. Don’t miss out on this chance to feed your curiosity and broaden your perspectives!

Ever craved a tasty vegan meal that needed a little extra zing? Allow us to take you on a culinary adventure as we spice things up and navigate the food terrain from Brian's taste buds to your ears. We'll share a foodie's review of a Forks Over Knives meal, the need for a hot sauce rescue mission, and a sip into the world of Nitro Pepsi. So, pull up a chair at our podcast table and get ready for some flavorful insights, seasoned with a sprinkle of philosophy. Now, have you ever considered unconditional love? Is it a human possibility or a beautifully doomed concept? We take a dive into the human mind, discussing the scientific basis for unconditional love and the role religion and spirituality may play in shaping our capacity for it. From exploring the distinct nature of love in various relationships to the concept of emotional bank accounts, our chat is more than a feast for thought. As we wrap up our conversation, we serve up some relationship wisdom, discussing the importance of good intentions in those we love and the impact of minor disturbances on our relationship health. We end on a note that challenges us all, to separate behavior from love in relationships. So, join us in a stimulating mix of food, philosophy, and a deeper understanding of unconditional love. Grab your headphones and your favorite snack, you're in for an enlightening treat.