Life's Learning Curve

Send us Fan MailPaul’s father kept calling to ask for his address… So he could send his “favorite sweatshirts.”         But the clothes were never the point.    As generations continue on, we experience how favorite sweatshirts morph into a Florida Guitar. This episode of Life’s Learning Curve is about aging fathers, grown sons, grown daughters, memory, and the quiet ways love keeps reaching for us long after childhood ends. Catch Paul's  new song "The Florida Guitar" within the show. Huzzah!Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat if the flight you think you missed… was never meant to leave without you? In this milestone Episode 100 of Life’s Learning Curve, Paul returns to a forgotten airport in 1970s Key West—where time stalls, flights are “scheduled”… and decisions quietly shape your life. A chance meeting with mentor Clay Greager turns a missed flight into something far bigger: a realization that delays aren’t failures—they’re invitations. If you’ve ever hesitated… waited… or wondered if you’re still on the right path—this story will hit close.Because sometimes… time doesn’t move forward… until you do.This isn’t just a story about leaving. It’s about finally being ready to.Support the show

Send us Fan Mail DID WE MAKE IT HAPPEN?    What if your teenage dreams could look you in the eye and ask the one question you’ve been avoiding? In this moving, funny, and nostalgic episode of Life’s Learning Curve, Paul Hardt travels from a 1975 high school gym to adulthood—through pep bands, basement rock bands, first heartbreaks, quiet fears, and the doubt that never really leaves:   Did I become who I thought I would?Through storytelling, reflection and warmth, this story isn’t about winning—it’s about surviving, creating, loving, and realizing that maybe…  We did make it happen.  Just not the way we expected.This episode is for you. Remember. Reflect. Because the story isn’t over yet.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat if the smallest heartbeat in your home ended up shaping the biggest chapters of your life?  Meet Mia — a shy little Havanese puppy who chose Paul’s family one spring night in 2007… and quietly became the glue that held them together for nearly eighteen years.This episode is a warm, heartfelt trip through the memories of a dog who chased squirrels, crashed high-school soccer practice, comforted lonely coworkers, and waited at a bedroom door every day for the girl who went off to college. It’s about kids growing up, a house growing quieter, and a dog who never stopped loving the people she chose. It’s funny, nostalgic, emotional — and deeply human. If you’ve ever loved a family dog — really loved one — this story will hit home in all the right ways.Click play and meet Mia — the one little dog who changed everything.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhen you’re sixteen, the right summer job can feel like hitting the jackpot. For Paul, it was working on a school district’s grounds crew—sun on his back, cash in his pocket, and a cast of unforgettable coworkers: Shorty, Sarge, Birdman, and Mr. Excitement. It wasn’t just mowing fields—it was growing up.Support the show

Send us Fan MailEver had a media video client ask for “just one more thing”? Welcome to the world of Feature Creep—where a simple three-minute video spirals into CGI mascots, helicopter shots, courtroom drama, and toddlers dictating color palettes. From a newsroom commercial gone wild in 1990, to the Fast & Furious of plant nursery training videos, Paul Hardt shares hilarious (and painful) true stories of edits that never ended. Learn why chasing “perfect” can turn into ego management, how to stop projects before they become hostages, and the one rule every creator should live by: export at version twelve—before you lose your mind.Order in the court—this is Mr. Feature Creep: Just One More Thing.Support the show

Send us Fan MailMeet Ernest “Skip” Wilson—Florida Keys legend, part-time adventurer, full-time excuse machine. In this episode, Skip, Chug, and Ricky Two-Toes haul in a monster grouper… only to realize it’s tagged by marine scientists and comes with more paperwork than their boat. From shady bars to busted skiffs, and with the marine patrol closing in, Skip’s only weapon is his charm—and maybe one legendary fib about “Principal Finnegan” the noble fish. A sunburnt comedy of errors, packed with laughs, close calls, and just enough truth to keep you guessing.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a man who's spent his whole life dodging expectations finally… sticks around? In this episode, we meet Ernest “Skip” Wilson—ex-adventurer, ex-romantic, and full-time Keys philosopher with a caffeine addiction and a rusted mailbox full of stories. From fishing scams and love lost, to the kind of porchside wisdom you can only earn after three decades of sunburn and bad decisions, Skip serves up laughs, longing, and a few lessons that sting just the right amount. Come for the seashell wind chimes and Slim Jim economics—stay for the moment a busted old mailbox becomes a badge of belonging. This one’s not just a goodbye. It’s a barstool-level promotion. Support the show

Send us Fan MailTime doesn’t just pass—it dances. Meet Callan Lee, a spirited two-year-old boy from Austin, Texas, seen through the eyes of his grandfather—and Callan’s own future ten-year-old self. What unfolds is a playful and poignant ride through memory, imagination, and legacy. Told as if young Callan himself is narrating, this story zips between superhero dreams on Illinois ranches, cowboy wisdom under Texas stars, and a garage Batcave packed with burritos, rubber chickens, and homemade label makers. Along the way, Grandaddy Pal shares lessons learned from war, storytelling, and simply showing up. It's a tale that proves love between generations doesn’t just echo from the past—it lights the way forward. Saddle up, press play, and ride into a story full of laughter, wisdom, and a little boy’s big dreams. No bunny.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIt's 1972. Polyester clung. Adidas squeaked. And one 14-year-old kid believed that walking thirty miles might fix his whole personality.This isn’t just a story about a charity hike. It’s about awkward adolescence, Kool-Aid commercial dreams, abandoned comedy writers, and discovering the kind of strength that doesn’t brag—it just limps quietly and keeps going.Full of 70s nostalgia, bittersweet laughs, and one brutally earned life lesson, this episode walks the line between who we want to be… and who we become when no one shows up but us.👟 Tune in. Tie your laces. And remember to pack extra socks.Life’s Learning Curve – Streaming now.Support the show

Send us Fan MailToday’s episode isn’t about a celebrity. It’s not about a bestselling author or a viral filmmaker. It’s about a guy who forgets where he parked, wears mismatched socks, and once left his coffee on the roof of his car. But behind the clumsy charm? He holds something powerful: the ability to tell a story that stays with you.From childhood, Mr. Benson didn’t just write stories—he saw them. And he taught others to see them too. He helped generations of students turn everyday life into something unforgettable… but in doing so, he discovered a haunting truth:👉 The moment you share your story… it’s no longer just yours.This is a story about letting go of what you create, watching it take flight, and realizing that the most powerful legacies don’t have your name on them—they have your fingerprints all over someone else’s heart.From chalkboards to camera lenses, from classroom whispers to standing ovations… this is the story of a storyteller who taught the world how to notice.✨ Stay with us. Because this one? It’s not just a story. It’s a thank you letter… to the teachers, the mentors, the invisible magic-makers.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Life’s Learning Curve, we journey back to Childhood County—a place where laughter was law, imagination ruled, and every cloud sparked a new story. But what happens when the games start to feel smaller and the bridge to Adulthood looms ahead? Join us as we reflect on the magic we left behind, the courage it took to cross that bridge, and the pieces of Childhood we can still carry with us today. Childhood County, where we know that while we all must grow up, the wonder doesn’t have to fade.Support the show

Send us Fan MailA faked death, stolen insurance money, and a stormy night on a battered houseboat—this case had it all. But the strangest part? The voice guiding Paul wasn’t just his intuition… it was his late mentor. Was it Paul’s instincts, his sanity slipping, or something more? Buckle up for a mystery where the truth is as murky as the waters of Key West. "The Ghosts We Carry With Us"—streaming now!Support the show

Send us Fan MailAh, to be 18 again. Fresh out of high school, rocking flannel like it was your full-time job, and thinking you were the backbone of the next big thing in rock and blues. My band? Red Rock. Until one day, the unthinkable happened—my drummer dreams came crashing down with a single, detached phone call: “You’re not in the band anymore.” Ouch. Rejection, angst, and the unmistakable sting of an unwashed flannel—welcome to my late ‘70s coming-of-age story. From losing my first band, to joining the most bizarre group of misfits you can imagine (spoiler: it involved a guy using a notebook paper keyboard and a frontman growling Neil Diamond), this episode has it all. Lessons learned? Oh, plenty. Chief among them: always play with musicians better than you... and never trust a keyboardist without an actual keyboard. Buckle up—it’s the ‘70s!  Let’s roll.Support the show

Send us Fan MailAre mischief and pranks the secret spice of life? Sometimes, yes! In this episode, Paul dives into the art shenanigans, sharing hilariously innocent (but oh-so-effective) childhood pranks, adventures and creative play. Think Jim Halpert-level hijinks with a nostalgic twist. Tune in for laughs, lessons, and a reminder that a little mischief can go a long way!"Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this high-stakes podcast episode, the sweltering August heat of Key Largo is nothing compared to the chaos unleashed by a looming Category 4 hurricane—and an even fiercer storm of grudges and past betrayals. Paul, a local boat repairman, finds himself navigating not just the devastation of the natural disaster but the emotional wreckage left behind by Jimmy Seaton, whose brother, Tom, has returned for revenge. As the hurricane bears down on the sleepy town, tensions boil over, leading to a climactic showdown. With the storm raging outside, the three men are forced to confront their demons, find forgiveness, and rebuild not just their homes but their lives. JOIN US IN ANOTHER FLORIDA KEYS ADVENTURE!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this gripping episode of Life’s Learning Curve, join us as we delve into a spine-chilling chapter from my childhood—an unforgettable encounter with the supernatural that left an indelible mark on my young mind. Picture this: an idyllic summer at a secluded cottage in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, where innocent days filled with sunshine and laughter gave way to eerie nights. It was here, amidst the whispering pines and flickering campfire, that I first heard the sinister tales of the Boogie Man, shared by the mischievous Mundoni twins. Their vivid stories of a shadowy figure who could slip through windows and leave chilling messages on foggy mirrors sent shivers down my spine and transformed my perception of safety forever. As the twins' tales unfolded, my innocent world was upended, and the dark Wisconsin woods became a place of lurking fear. This episode is a haunting exploration of how childhood fears shape our understanding of reality and the lingering effects of those early encounters with the macabre. Prepare to be captivated and unsettled as we journey back to that fateful summer night when my eyes were opened to the terrifying possibilities of the unknown.Support the show

Send us Fan MailJoin Paul and Sharly as they recount their unexpected encounter with Brandon, a man whose presence altered the course of their holiday in Key West. Set against the backdrop of swaying palms and vibrant streets, their journey begins innocently enough with a quest for relaxation and adventure. But as they traverse the sun-soaked alleyways, they stumble upon Brandon, a middle-aged man navigating the streets in an ill-equipped wheelchair, his life forever changed by a recent stroke.Against the vibrant backdrop of Key West's cultural tapestry, Paul and Sharly are drawn  into Brandon's world, filled with trials, resilience, and unexpected twists. As theyextend a helping hand, they uncover the complexities of Brandon's reality –from his struggles with homelessness to his battles with anxiety and mortality.Yet amidst the challenges, there are moments of connection and hope, as Brandon find solace in the warmth of human kindness and companionship. But as days pass, they realize that Brandon's pride may be the biggest obstacle to accepting the help offered by others.Through heartfelt conversations and shared moments, Paul and Sharly grapple with the complexities of Brandon's story, ultimately learning that sometimes the greatest acts of kindness come from simply being present and offering support without judgment.In this poignant episode, listeners are invited to reflect on the resilience of the human spirit, the power of connection, and the profound impact of empathy and understanding. So join Paul and Sharly as they navigate the streets of Key West and discover the true meaning of compassion in the most unexpected places.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of unexpected connections, transformative moments, and the power of perseverance in the face of adversity, Paul recalls his teenage years in 1972, marked by the untimely death of his band director and his pursuit of drumming dreams. Enter Mr. McCabe, an enigmatic drum teacher with a manicured comb over and an abrasive demeanor. Their initial encounter is rocky, with Mr. McCabe's blunt and dismissive attitude leaving Paul feeling intimidated and uncertain.Despite Mr. McCabe's tough exterior, Paul perseveres, determined to prove himself and push through dynamic of banter and insults, yet beneath the surface lies a mutual understanding and respect for each other's dedication to music.As Paul skills grow, so does his appreciation for Mr. McCabe's unconventional teaching methods. The tension culminates during a pivotal moment at a concert when Paul faces a crisis. In a surprising turn of events, Mr. McCabe appears to help out.Through this act of kindness, Paul gains a newfound understanding of Mr. McCabe's character, realizing that his gruff demeanor stems from his own insecurities. Their journey together transcends music, and embeds itself it the category of life’s learned lessons.Support the show

Send us Fan MailStep into a time machine and journey back to 1948, where a gripping tale unfolds in Coal Township, PA. Meet eight-year-old Clay, whose story is a riveting testament to resilience and determination. As he and his family embark on a new chapter, you'll  witness Clay's initiation into the world of coal bootlegging, the hardships of fitting into rustic row houses, and the challenges of navigating a life without modern comforts. Amidst this backdrop, discover the transformative power of education as Clay finally gets a chance to attend school. With the guidance of a devoted history teacher, Mr. Mumley, Clay's passion for learning ignites, opening a window to a worl  beyond the coal mines. But just when the future seems bright, a decision by his father alters Clay's trajectory, forcing him onto an unexpected path.Despite setbacks, witness young Clay's unwavering determination to overcome obstacles and forge ahead. His story is a testament to the human spirit and the resilience that fuels dreams.Join us on Life’s Learning Curve as we unravel the extraordinary true story of Clay Greager, a narrative that transcends time, inspiring us to pursue our dreamsagainst all odds.Support the show

Send us Fan MailMeet seven-year-old Clay Greager, whose unwavering determination to pursue his dreams leads him to brave the confines of a family coal mine in 1948. But that's just the beginning of his remarkable journey.Join us as we unravel the poignant stories shared by author Clay Greager himself, recounting moments where the line between ambition and adversity blurred. Experience the heart-stopping  encounter with mortality, from the blinding sun that alters destiny to the serene swing under a willow tree turning into a haunting reminder of life's fragility.In this episode, Paul delves deep into Clay Greager's early years, painting a vivid picture of courage, loss, and the pursuit of ambition against all odds. Tune in as we uncover the gripping narratives that shaped a young boy's extraordinary path.Prepare for an emotional rollercoaster as we explore the intersections of fate, determination, and the unyielding spirit of a child destined for greatness. Don't miss out on this compelling episode that challenges the very essence of seizing opportunities and confronting life head-on. Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Life's Learning Curve "Criminals, Outcasts, and Artists," we follow the adventurous journey of Paul, who is called upon by his old friend Duke to rescue the failing Huckleberry Sunshine business in California, left in ruins by the C0-Vid crisis. Despite numerous setbacks and communication mishaps, Paul arrives ready to shoot commercials and create a podcast centered around the business. However, his world is turned upside down when he meets the new owner, the carefree Australian surfer Denbigh, who operates by his own rules. What unfolds is a whirlwind of communicative chaos and work-related fun, demonstrating the remarkable synergy that emerges between these two contrasting individuals as they embark on a creative adventure.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhen your 11, life still seems strange, adult behaviors are sometimes confusing and we are lucky to survive it all. In this episode, Paul is curious about his father’s semi annual poker night in the far back basement of his house. However, THIS TIME Paul is allowed to come sit and observe his father’s poker night and the players. One of these players was Paul’s current teacher. But the evening turned quite dark as another player’s behavior and quirky responses turned into a nightmare that haunted Paul for many years afterward. Listen to this life altering episode about testing the water of attempting to be a good man. When you're just a kid of eleven, life's a real puzzler. Grown-up actions can be a head scratcher, and making it through unscathed? Well, that's a triumph in itself. Join me in this tale, where we're dodging confusion and trying to find our footing.In this chapter of life, young Paul's got a burning question – What's the deal with his old man's twice-a-year poker night down in the deep, dark basement? But hold on, this time, something's different. This time, Paul's getting an invite to the grown-up gathering. He's gonna be a fly on the wall, watching his dad and the gang play their hands.Turns out, one of the players is none other than Paul's current teacher. The lines between school and life at home start to blur, and it's a curious sight for young Paul. But oh boy, buckle up, 'cause this story takes a turn. The night that should've been just a peek into his dad's world transforms into a shiver-inducing nightmare, one that sticks with Paul like a stubborn shadow.You'll want to lean in close as I spin this tale of how an ordinary evening can twist and tangle, leaving scars that linger long after the lights go out. This is a journey that'll make you think about the kind of man you want to become – the paths you'll tread, the waters you'll test. Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn first grade, Paul's life is forever changed by a series of events. He is placed in a reading group, where he encounters a first-year teacher and is forced to sit next to Jimmy, a misfit who has trouble controlling his behavior. A mentor is brought in to help the class, and from that moment on, Paul's perspectives and attitudes are transformed. The story suggests that we can all improve ourselves by surrounding ourselves with the right people. But exactly, just WHO was the mystery mentor?Support the show

Send us Fan MailCan you keep the feeling of vacation after it’s over??   Paul’s friend Sam figured out how to do it.  This episode finds Paul sharing a story about his friend Sam's epic adventure in tropical Key West. Sam, on a mission to find the perfect cigar for his buddy Paul, embarks on a journey that takes him deep into the heart of the island's cigar culture.Along the way, he encounters a cast of colorful characters, from local store owners to feisty street performers who have had eccentric adventures of their own. But it's not all fun and games for Sam – he takes his quest seriously, determinedto find the ultimate smoke for his pal.As Sam delves deeper into Key West's cigar scene, he discovers a hidden gem – avintage cigar shop that only builds a masterful premium cigar once a year onthe summer solstice. With the help of the shop's eccentric owner named Butch,Sam finally finds the perfect cigar, and more importantly, a way to keep thespirit of his vacation alive long after he's returned home.Join us for this funny, quirky and heartwarming tale of friendship, adventure, andthe search for the perfect smoke. Whether you're a seasoned cigar aficionado orjust love a good story, you won't want to miss this episode.Support the show

Send us Fan MailJoin us for a heartwarming episode of Life's Learning Curve. Prepare to be inspired as Paul reflects on his father's own struggles with hyperactivity and the loss of his father’s father at a young age. Through it all, Paul's dad found strength in other positive male role models and became the confident, laugh-loving father that Paul adored. Also, Paul shares the story of how his father saved him from the winter blues by taking him sledding at night. That's not all, folks! Don't miss this ode to a truly wonderful family and the memories that they created together. Grab a tissue and tune in!Support the show

Send us Fan MailAs we reminisced about our carefree childhoods coming to a close, a nostalgic longing for innocence washed over us. The memories of a 1968 vacation to California evoked feelings of adventure, wonder, and warmth - from the magical Disneyland experience to the sun-kissed days spent exploring. But, amidst the decade of peace, color, and unrest in the west coast, a sense of unease lingered in the air due to the ongoing Vietnam War and the protests that accompanied it, creating an unusual imbalance that juxtaposed the feeling of all is well. An eleven year old Paul & his family visit the fantasy of California in 1968.Support the show

Send us Fan MailNew to the central American country of Costa Rica, Paul sat in a Chinese restaurant mulling over the foreign menu. Suddenly there it was…. A cold raw fish cocktail and a warm beer. Now, at that time in his life, Paul knew that he just DID NOT CARE for fish at all. He had tried it back in the good ol’ USA, and quite honestly, it triggered that gag reflex; that embarrassing response from a child, He could not let that be HIS response.. However, Paul knew that might happen. The pressure was on. As all eyes gazed, Paul went for it. He took a heaping forkful of fish cocktail and felt the liquidy fish chunks slid into his mouth, and he  forced them past his taste buds straight down his throat. Bleaaa! Life is about taking chances, trying new things, having fun, making mistakes and learning from it. Life is about eating raw Costa Rican fish cocktail!   Muy sabroso Very tasty!    This is an episode about life’s adventures and its challenges for the uninitiated.Más pescado para ti More fish for you!Support the show

Send us Fan MailThis episode tells the story of what happened one night, to Paul when he chose to relax a bit and sit  by the moonlit sea on the tropical island of St. Maarten. While stargazing just off the Caribbean coast, Paul spots a large glowing object off the far sandbar and deep in the water. As the light reveals itself, he discovers a James Bond-like scuba guy. Emerging from the waters, he soon is surrounded by nigh time boozy bar patrons. The scuba man reveals nothing about the slight of hand con he about to initiate. Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat do mile markers and tollbooths have in common? If I told you the answer to this question was… ‘They are a contributing reoccurring part of YOU and your life’s journey’ Mile markers and tollbooths, etc. might alter your perspective on a few things. On this episode, The Story of Last Flight Out is featured. It cannot be measured how many people have been impacted by this one page read, but I would wager a guess…Thousands of people.     Key West entrepreneur, author and Vietnam veteran Clay Greager is featured in a thought filled philosophical ride through not only Key West, but a journey through life itself.   Stories about how WE, became US.Support the show

Send us Fan MailDid you ever have a teacher whose passion and excitement for learning drove you AND your peers to excel? In this episode Paul is in 8th Grade, and his new band teacher is young, fun, talented, interesting, fair and engaging with all of his students. Quelling immature student behavior, Mr. Roush nurtured the band class to exceed expectations. Paul and his classmates slowly begin to understand that a single person can find, and then pull the BEST YOU out of you. At that point in his hife, learning became a passion. Until it happened...Support the show

Send us Fan MailThis episode delves into the captivating story of Paul's Uncle Russ, who, as a young boy in the 1930s, became enamored with the rugged, untamed wilderness of the American West in the 1880s. Fueled by his love for the thrilling adventures depicted in comic books and B-movie westerns, Uncle Russ became entranced by the legendary stories of the far southwestern United States, including the infamous outlaw Billy the Kid and the historic town of Mesilla. His passion was further ignited by the Eagles' melancholic album "Desperado," which poetically evokes the spirit of the Wild West. Uncle Russ' yearning for adventure and fantasy was intensified by his experiences during the war, ultimately leading him to embark on a quest to explore the last unexplored frontier of America, the Wild West.Support the show

Send us Fan MailThis episode sets us in Savannah Georgia with Paul’s ol’ college buddy, Dentist Tye Hagan. Let’s face it, as engaged and motivated as we all once were to begin our careers back in the day, most of us held tight to our innocence of youth and doing the right thing. Newbie dentist Dr. Tye did just that, and in the process of setting his new practice in Savannah, he became entangled in a drug running operation out of his own office. Don’t miss the slow wrinkled southern charm of Sally-Jo in this episode! Will Tye find his way out of this messy tangled web?  Co starring:The FBI, The DEA, and the Savannah Police Department.  Support the show

Send us Fan MailRegional speak, or regional dialects are sometimes my favorite part of Paul’s business day. When he gets a client on the phone, he may ask him how everything is going (insert their state name). Paul often gets a 3 to 5 sentence primer in their regional language, metaphors or slang. PAUL: “Hey Henry. How is Mississippi treating you these days?”  HENRY: “Mah day’s all cattywampus cuz of the fecundating kudzu growing across my office window. If the thermo-bulb keeps going up, we’ll have another tongue wagger on our hands.”        -Sometimes life offers us perks in plain conversation. By the way, the best regional linguistic artists often turn out to be the head honcho; the person at the top. The CEO.Support the show

Send us Fan Mail“You can always be better! You have to learn something every day, and if you don’t, …There’s no place to go.”  This organic inspiration is innate for our guest Bob Tonge. A man with a career in broadcasting, video production, and writing and performing music. Bob Tonge’s drive to build clients’ confidence and trust, has taken him into a one of a kind adventure in life -Here is a story of a  unique journey.  Paul gets a once in a lifetime sit down with communicator Bob Tonge.  “You got to keep prodding & learning & making adjustments in life. Keep moving forward!” -Bob Tonge  Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn a world that's always shifting, where time molds us like clay, this episode of Life’s Learning Curve is a tapestry. That intricate dance between growing up, embracing change, and stepping into the shoes of fatherhood. Join Paul on a journey as he revisits the chapters of his life woven together with the threads of fatherly devotion.In this nostalgic recollection, Paul’s father and he navigate the uncharted waters of DAD-DOM, two souls connected by blood and dreams. Yet, it's the echoes of Paul’s now-grown children, Heidi and Riley, portrayed in their youthful exuberance, that guide us through this narrative.Tales of yesteryears come alive, as Paul dives into the chronicles of Griff, a chapter where Heidi's dramatic and cringe-worthy boyfriend takes center stage. Laughter andawkwardness blend, creating a mosaic of memories that still warm my heart.Then, a tender story unfolds—a memory of lazy Sundays spent scavenging treasures from dumpsters, Paul is side by side with his seven-year-old son. Together, they gather materials to erect a majestic treehouse, an imagined pirate ship soaring amidst the clouds. It's in these moments of shared adventure that the bonds of a father and son are fortified, forever etched in the annals of time.But life's canvas is vast, and not without its spills. The recollection takes a poignant turn as Paul recounts the time when, at seventeen, he faltered as a camp counselor for a group of eager eleven-year-olds. A crisis mishandled, a lesson learned—the colors of humility and growth painted onto his soul.As the final strokes of this tale brush across the canvas, we delve into the story of a boy and his father drifting apart, an emotional journey of separation and reconciliation. Through trials and tribulations, the intricate web of love stitches their hearts back together, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.In the end, as Paulreflects upon this patchwork of narratives, the truth unfolds—how the seemingly inconspicuous fragments of our lives, like soft whispers in the wind, can evolve into profound connections that span a lifetime. Little did we know that within these fleeting moments lie the seeds of love, laughter, and unbreakable bonds. So come, join Paul, as we unravel the tapestry of life—one story at a time. Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhile living a mundane existence in the suburbs. Thor Vance aspires to be a hot jazz guitarist . However, Thor is known as a triple-L loser. Although bullied and mocked as a child, he DID HAVE healthy and realistic future dreams. In this episode, procrastinator Thor seeks his dream, but arrives a bit too late and must realize his delay has damaged his destiny.  But not everything in life is unrepairable. A broken man living a broken life, Thor is given a loser nickname that follows him throughout his life. This humorous nonfiction episode ranks among the most existential of the Life’s Learning Curve episodes.Support the show

Send us Fan MailThe Adventure! Undertaking danger and unknown risks, Paul leaves the USA to participate in an internship in Costa Rica, This episode brings 1979-style adventures for Paul. Struggling with a language barrier, he and his college roommate Reed vacation for one week at a non existent un-named beach town during spring break. Paul synthesizes with native villagers, and learns their daily routine of work, play, how they handle obsessive heat, and a daily symphony of gasoline generators which all seemed to be running at the same time. Add to that a dictatorial mayor, Mayor James, whose beach house sways with the blowing breeze, Paul and Reed begin an adventure in a Central American town with no name. Support the show

Send us Fan MailPaul revisits the beginning of Summer with a look back at the people and events that made Summer go great! Phil, Sue, his mom & dad and RUDY! The swim instructor with a permanent tan! In the end, Paul learns a couple thing: He learns how to swim AND He learns that nothing TOO GREAT in life lasts forever. Support the show

Send us Fan MailPaul's guest is a  stand up comic,  a graphic artist, a puppeteer, a photographer, a voice artist, and a TV producer/performer, Paul welcomes TV’s John DiDonna. Life stories range from humorist innovator Ernie Kovacs to Chico Marx to a manic bus driver. John’s life is a shared comedic tone poem, His show called TWITS ran in the late 1980s and included some of these elements: Crazy Kenny, Mr. Friendly, Manny Moe and Jack, impersonations of Charles Bronson and Clint Eastwood and MORE! This show is a celebration of a man who dedicates his life to making others laugh.Support the show

Send us Fan MailGuest Dave Wormington has a super-talent. Since birth, Dave has inspired others to excel and do their best. Taking a step further, Dave provided an unexpected volume of encouragement, or as Paul calls it, tubthumping. Stories of bands, writing music, nuns, 70s hair for guys and the bass guitar fill this episode. Many people inspire and encourage, but Paul believes Dave’s uncanny ability to extend his passion for helping others that makers the difference in this unique man. Guest David Wormington brings stories, humor, irony and depth to this episode.Support the show

Send us Fan MailThis episode takes Paul back to camp within two different time frames. Enthusiastic and engaged Rusty and Hilda June directed the field campus and helped create the magic of outdoor education when Paul’s class spent a week there as  a twelve year old. At age 20 Paul returned as a part of his teacher training. But the second time, things were quite less magical and of- putting. Something had happened to Rusty and Hilda June that upset the balance of the camp. A blizzard, an offensive set of singer-songwriter originals, Tommy’s intestinal fortitude and a game of Duck Duck Goose gone bad, These variables ALL contribute to this episode about life’s changes and adjustments.Support the show

Send us Fan MailFrom the moment 16 year old Paul entered high school that spring day, usually an invisible student, he had some celebrity, but did not know why. Someone named Joey Malone was looking for Paul. Joey had spread the word that he wanted payback, and that Paul had done something really bad to him. Joey meant to get even with Paul, and he wanted to fight! Until the punch hits its target, Paul’s mouth, Paul STILL had no idea why Joey or anyone else was angry with him. Miscommunication, ego and plain ol’ lies would begat suspensions in school and a record with the police.  This episode contains stitches (twice) as well as an unexpected car break in.  Just when you think you have got everything understood in your life, something leaps out of the shadows and punches you in the mouth.    Episode 60      Season 4Support the show

Send us Fan MailAt age 18, it was the first summer Paul took a summer job that was different from the others. This job quickly became awkward, demoralizing, nightmarish and yet, somehow funny to him. It was as if Paul was participating in a Hitchcock film with a guy named Anthony. Paul’s sense of humor and lack of life’s experiences collide as he is trapped in a fight or flight situation.  Getting a summer job was necessary for Paul. But what was NOT necessary …Working with a man with an intent to harm. This nonfiction episode is a nod to the suspense filled episodes of classic radio of the 1940s and 1950s. Support the show

Send us Fan MailWHAT A RIDE?!?!? How did you choose your career? Did you choose it? Did it choose you, or was it fate?  As we enter Season Four of Life’s Learning Curve Paul finally shares one of the MOST embarrassing stories of his life: Just HOW he chose his career field.  Paul also explains where that career took him and how adding new technology to education probably saved him. In this episode mentors, losers, winners, motivators, Inspirers, great students and a national award or two are episode content.  Support the show

Send us Fan MailEd not only delivered children from school to their homes daily on good ol’ bus 39, he also delivered kindness, patience and friendship.  People just like Ed came into Paul’s live on occasion. For a brief time, Ed was a living legend to Paul, but do legends truly live on forever? Do you know anyone exceptional like Ed? Everyone deserves some deserved appreciation; a smile & a kind word back to them. It may make their day. Proactive small steps of regard can turn someone’s life around. Let them know you appreciate them. After all, tomorrow is not promised.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIt wasn’t the soft breeze and tropical sunny warmth that hooked Paul on St. Martin, it was the adventure. That is, until that adventure went off the rails. Break ins, theft, corruption, and organized crime, and bunco schemes all existed in the dank underbelly of the tropical island. Hangers on from the last hurricane rebuild had stayed on the island and now hid out and pretended to be locals. NOT GOOD. ADVICE: When you go on holiday to the Caribbean, exist on the surface of the beautiful island, and DO NOT stray too far from your resort where crime and huge BUNCO schemes abound. Sometimes vacation adventures can lead you astray.Support the show

Send us Fan MailLife threw Bob a curve ball, misleading him at a young age. You can’t control the curve balls life throws at you. so you have to learn how to change or adapt, sometimes quickly so that life’s curve balls don’t take you too far down the wrong path. Bob always knew the man he would like to be, so throughout his life he found role models and mentors for himself, but NONE OF THEM had immediate impact of a colossal world event. A man never gets so old that he forgets what it was like being a young boy. This episode finds Bob maneuvering baseball’s literal curve ball, AND the curve balls life hurls at us.Support the show

Send us Fan MailPaul retells about a time a whipped cream bomb exploded in a nearby park, but the concussion was nothing next to Captain Video, a bright, yet self-centered man still wrestling with a basic childhood trait… Sharing.  This Life’s Learning Curve episode spans almost 26 years to explain two sides of the coin. Rules, duty and respect meet a self-centered arrogant man called Captain Video. Support the show

Send us Fan MailIf you go where you’ve never been, you MAY just find yourself. The desert can be blazing hot, the desert can be freezing cold -A challenge to the human spirit. The human spirit needs to be challenged and to recreate. On this remote episode, Paul talks with a couple of brothers in the Mesilla Valley area of New Mexico. It’s good for our souls to work with our hands. Their innovative talent for maintaining and modifying minibikes takes the brothers on an adventure in the deserts of the southwest. Bring your helmet, googles and your sense of adventure. Say hello to Drake and Tristen.Support the show