PODCAST · health
Who Thought We'd Be Here?
by Steven Aigner and John Pugh
"Who Thought We'd Be Here" is a podcast about changing your mind, redefining the stigma around mental health, and living a vulnerable and productive lifestyle. Both seeking answers from the Universe as they turned 30, co-hosts and longtime pals Steven Aigner and John Pugh found themselves improving in ways their younger and much more wild selves could have never seen coming. They began conquering and healing their past selves with unfamiliar mindfulness tools like meditation, yoga, breath-work, journaling, reading transformative books, and experimenting with mind expanding remedies. Ignited by a passion to help others struggling with complex problems of their own and a desire to create a new narrative surrounding men's mental health in today's modern society, they created their first collaborative podcast "Who Thought We'd Be Here?" This podcast is all about exploring the boundless potential within ourselves, and to inspire each and every one of us to be fearless in
Episodes
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Reshaping Society's Definition of Masculinity for the Modern Man
In this episode, we explore the evolving conversation around masculinity and the role men are trying to navigate in today’s culture. Rather than approaching the topic from extremes, this discussion looks at the tension many men feel between traditional expectations and modern societal shifts—and...
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Think and Grow Better: A Simple Guide to Reaching Your Goals
This week’s conversation is inspired by the principles in Think and Grow Rich, but instead of reviewing the book, we explore what those ideas look like when applied to real life. We talk about the difference between wanting something and committing to it, how clarity of purpose changes the way…
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Why Self-Doubt Shows Up When You’re Actually Growing
Self-doubt is something almost everyone experiences — but very few people know how to talk about honestly. In this episode of Who Thought We’d Be Here?, we explore what self-doubt actually is, where it comes from, and how it shows up when you’re trying to grow, change, or move into a new chapter…
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Renew, Reset, Release: A New Approach to Having the Best Year of Your Life
This episode of "Who Thought We'd Be Here?" introduces the Renew, Reset, Release framework, a three-pillar system designed to help you move beyond traditional New Year's resolutions and create lasting, meaningful change. The episode critiques the "hustle culture" approach to new beginnings…
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Who Thought We’d Be Here? A 2025 Reflection + Our 2026 Vision
In this episode of Who Thought We’d Be Here?, we take a thoughtful look at the podcast’s 2025 — the areas where the show grew, the conversations that resonated most, and what we learned about consistency, depth, and community. We talk openly about where the podcast performed well and where we…
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From Childhood Grief to Running Marathons: How I Became the Man I Always Needed When I Was a Kid | EP079
In this deeply personal and motivating conversation, marathon runner Ryan Carney opens up about the experiences that shaped him — from getting cut from his childhood soccer team, to losing his father at just ten years old, to discovering running as a lifeline, a discipline, and eventually a...
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Brian Galligan Returns: Following Your Passion & Choosing Integrity over Clickbait | EP078
In this powerful episode of Who Thought We’d Be Here?, Brian Galligan is back again to talk about what it really means to rebuild yourself from the ground up. From battling insecurity and addiction to launching the Ikonical podcast and Top Dog Coverage, Brian opens up about the mindset shifts…
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Steve’s First Marathon & JP’s New Chapter: Learning to Let Go of Expectations & Step into Growth | EP077
In this episode, the guys take a breath and reflect on two big turning points in their lives — Steve running his first marathon, and JP stepping into a new relationship. What starts as a casual catch-up unfolds into a deeper conversation about showing up for yourself, embracing discomfort, and...
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Gratitude, Growth & Faith: The Self Improvement Episode | EP076
In this solo episode of Who Thought We’d Be Here?, JP and Steve step back from interviews to share an honest check-in on their own self-improvement journeys. The conversation centers on the practices and mindsets they’re working on right now — slowing down to stay present, letting go of...
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Bring Peace to Your Mind & Harmony to Your Body with the Healing Power of Sound Therapy | EP075
Vinny Colandrea aka "The Reverb Yogi" joins JP & Steve to explain how he uses sound and vibration to guide people out of mental loops and back into present awareness. He defines his work as intentionally redirecting attention so people can “open the space to heal themselves” rather than being…
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The Expertise Episode: What Are You Great At That You Don't See Within Yourself? | EP074
In this episode of Who Thought We’d Be Here?, JP and Steve take a step back from guests and topics to reflect on each other’s expertise — the qualities, habits, and skills that have shaped their friendship, creative work, and this podcast. The conversation begins with life updates: how new...
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Reprogram Your Subconscious for Success & Transform Your Brain with Hypnotist & Mindset Coach Anthony Serino | EP073
In this episode, we sit down with Anthony Serino, hypnotist and mindset coach, for a powerful deep dive into how the subconscious mind shapes every aspect of our lives. Anthony opens up about his own struggles with anxiety, identity, and self-sabotage, and how discovering hypnosis gave him the...
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The Healing Power of Nutrition on Your Mind, Body & Business w/ Chakra Bowls Founder Lauren Hoheusle | EP072
In this episode of WTWBH, Steve and JP sit down with Lauren Hoheusle, the owner of Chakra Bowls Cafe, to discuss the intersection of nutrition, mental health, and entrepreneurship. Lauren shares her personal journey, explaining how a tragic loss in 2014 led her to dive deeper into understanding…
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Michael Chernow - An INSPIRING Story of Conquering Addiction & Lessons from 20+ Years of Sobriety | EP071
Michael Chernow — restaurateur, entrepreneur, endurance athlete, and founder of Kreatures of Habit — joins us for a brutally honest conversation about addiction, recovery, discipline, and building a life worth living.From running some of New York City’s most iconic restaurants to hitting rock...
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Balancing Comedy with Anxiety and Doing Stand-Up in the Sauna with Comedian David Stickle | EP070
In this episode of Who Thought We’d Be Here?, stand-up comedian David Stickle gets honest about the messy, uncomfortable, and hilarious process of becoming a comic. He opens up about how terrifying his early sets were, what it’s like to bomb in front of a crowd, and why anxiety still shows up...
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How to Heal Beyond Sobriety & Embrace your Journey with Accountability (Back on the Deck) | EP069
In this stripped-back solo episode, your favorite co-hosts return to one of their original recording spots — but they’re not the same people they were when they started. It’s a full-circle moment, and what follows is an open, emotional conversation about growth, fatherhood, sobriety, and…
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The MOST Masculine Thing You Can Do: OPEN Up Your Heart & STOP Hiding From Yourself w/ Federico Fridman | EP068
In this powerful and heart-centered episode, we sit down with Federico Fridman, co-founder of Cacao Lab, to explore how plants, fatherhood, and men’s work transformed his relationship with himself and the world around him. Federico shares how ceremonial cacao went from a personal healing practice...
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How to Shift Your Life from Survival Mode to Self Love w/ Trauma Informed Therapist & Reiki Healer Katie Parent | EP067
In this episode, we sit down with Katie Parent, a licensed therapist and holistic healer, to explore what healing really means—beyond talk therapy and into the body, the nervous system, and lived experience. Katie shares how she combines traditional mental health practices with somatic tools,...
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From Rock Bottom to Running Marathons: How Running & Filmmaking Transformed My Life w/ Allen Wong | EP066
In this raw and inspiring episode, we sit down with Allen Wong — filmmaker, distance runner, and former addict — to explore how endurance sports and creativity helped him rebuild his identity from the ground up. Allen opens up about his chaotic past: growing up in a traditional Asian household,...
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How to Heal Your Trauma, Elevate Your Energy & Vibrate Higher w/ Herbalist Jess Kravit | EP065
In this episode, we sit down with Jess Kravit, founder of Exalted Alchemy, to dive deep into the world of herbalism, natural wellness, entrepreneurship, and energetic healing. Jess breaks down what it really means to be a clinical herbalist in a modern world that’s both disconnected from nature…
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Nick Spencer - How Jui-Jitsu Saved My Life and Plant Medicine Killed my Ego | EP064
In Episode 064, we sit down with Nick Spencer, martial artist, business owner, and founder of Snake Hill Jiu-Jitsu, for an honest, wide-ranging conversation about healing, identity, and building something real. From military police service to managing PTSD, Nick shares how Jiu-Jitsu became not…
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Bryce Eckwall - How to Conquer Your Overthinking & Build a 6 Figure Creative Business | EP063
In this powerful and unfiltered episode, the hosts sit down with Bryce Eckwall, founder of Q29 Productions, for a deep conversation about the intersection of creativity, entrepreneurship, healing, and self-worth. The episode opens with a behind-the-scenes look at how real conversations are...
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"Steve Strong: Rebuilding from Rock Bottom & Healing Reality Through Tabletop RPGs" | EP062
This week we sit down with Steve Strong of the Dungeons in the Attic podcast for a deeply honest conversation about personal transformation. Steve opens up about his experiences with trauma, mental health, and the emotional weight he carried from childhood into adulthood. We explore how...
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"Connor Bond: Acting, Improv, Existentialism & Laughing Through the Pain" | EP061
This week, we're joined by actor, improv teacher, and creative soul Connor Bond for a deep, hilarious, and honest conversation about what it really means to navigate life, creativity, and identity. We talk about Connor’s journey through different seasons of growth, from teaching improv to kids to...
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"Overthinking Everything: Fitness, Fulfillment & Feeling Like a Fraud" | EP060
This episode is a vulnerable look into the tug-of-war between ambition and self-acceptance. Steve and JP explore the quiet, often overwhelming internal dialogue that comes with trying to grow—physically, mentally, emotionally—while constantly questioning if you're doing enough. From the guilt of...
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"Emmanuel Jimenez: Being the Rooted Man You Were Always Meant To Be" | EP059
In this episode, we’re joined by Manny Jimenez — a real estate agent, martial artist, and man of deep faith — for an honest conversation about identity, growth, and staying grounded in a world full of noise. Manny opens up about his personal journey, from navigating insecurities in his youth to...
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"Escaping the Ego Trap & Building a Life of Abundance" | EP058
How many days have you lived? We kick off this episode with a little math problem to put time into perspective. Then, we reflect on the journey of this podcast, the variety of guests we have lined up, and the growing pains of figuring out what it means to turn a passion into a business. The...
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"Taylor Lyons @ Kelta: Rediscovering Your Identity in Motherhood & the Priceless Power of Self Care" | EP057
In this episode, we sit down with Taylor Lyons, owner of Kelta Wellness Center, a space dedicated to cutting-edge wellness technology, including sensory deprivation tanks, meditation beds, sauna therapy, and cold plunges. Taylor shares her journey from being a school teacher to a certified yoga...
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"New Levels, New Devils – Why Consistency & Accountability Still Matter To Us" | EP056
In this episode, we reflect on the challenge of maintaining consistency and accountability in both the podcast and everyday life. We share our experience in a sensory deprivation tank in preparation for an upcoming episode, while we discuss the importance of movement, yoga, and staying...
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"The Power of Family, Overcoming Overwhelm, & Lessons That Last a Lifetime" | EP055
In this episode, we open up about the evolving role of family in our lives and the unexpected ways it shapes us. From navigating the overwhelming nature of big life changes to learning how to be present with the people who matter most, we reflect on the moments that define us. We talk about the...
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"Brandon Purdy: The Healing Power of Music & Discovering Creativity in Spirituality" | EP054
In this episode, we sit down with musician Brandon Purdy to dive into the healing power of music, creativity, and spirituality. Brandon shares how loss and personal struggles reshaped his artistic journey, transitioning from making “hollow” music to creating songs with real meaning. We explore…
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"LMSW Nina Lugo: The Reality of Social Work, Mental Health Stigmas & Learning Coping Skills" | EP053
In this episode, we welcome Licensed Master Social Worker Nina Lugo, a passionate social worker making a difference in the lives of students, parents, and educators. Nina opens up about the realities of social work, shedding light on the often-overlooked emotional toll that comes with helping...
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“Big News, Bigger Feelings: Life-Changing Moments & the Road to Fatherhood” | EP052
This episode is a big one. An important one. Our most personal one yet. We told you we were gonna cry today—and for good reason. Steve is having a baby, and we dive deep into the whirlwind of emotions that come with it. Excitement, nerves, and the realization that life is about to change forever....
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"Trusting Yourself, Taking Risks & Updates on Consistency" EP051
In this episode, we dive into the environments that fuel our best work, the luxury of staying ahead, and the mindset shifts that help us keep going. We reflect on learning to trust ourselves, overcoming perfectionism (“Perfectionism is better spelled paralysis” – Winston Churchill), and embracing...
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"Rayvin Rey: Overcoming Scarcity, Embracing Patience, & Finding Your Soulmate” EP050 (Pt. 2)
In part two of our conversation with Rayvin Rey, we explore powerful insights on overcoming scarcity mindsets and embracing patience in personal growth. Rayvin shares her thoughts on finding alignment outside of relationships, balancing happiness with financial success, and breaking free from...
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"Rayvin Rey on Overcoming Shame, Cultivating Self-Love, & Finding Your Authenticity" EP050 (Pt. 1)
"Rayvin Rey on Overcoming Shame, Cultivating Self-Love, & Finding Your Authenticity" EP050 (Pt. 1) In this episode, we sit down with our longtime friend and inspiring guest, Rayvin Rey, to explore the transformative power of unlearning, self-love, and personal growth. Rayvin shares her journey of...
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“Karate Master Joe Fry: Crushing Self Doubt, Building Confidence & Embracing Sensitivity” EP049
This week, we’re thrilled to bring you a very special episode, recorded live from the dojo with our longtime friend and karate master, Joe Fry! Joe is not only the owner of a thriving karate studio and a 5th degree black belt, but also a dedicated mentor, parent, and entrepreneur. In this…
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"New Year Reset: Ryan Holiday’s Stoic Wisdom, Breaking Bad Habits & Crushing 2025 Goals"
It’s a New Year, and we’re starting 2025 by looking back at everything we learned in 2024. We talk about how one of us made the life-changing decision to get sober, and how that single choice improved not only our personal lives but the direction and consistency of this podcast. We also reflect…
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"Grounding into Gratitude & Dealing with Your Displaced Anger" | Episode #048
"Grounding into Gratitude & Dealing with Your Displaced Anger | Episode #048 This week, we’re digging into the big stuff—like how to handle displaced anger, break free from people-pleasing, and challenge outdated stereotypes about masculinity. We explore how mindfulness and gratitude can help you...
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“The Power of Consistency, Mastering Your Brain States, Wisdom from Matthew McConaughey" | EP 047
“The Power of Consistency, Mastering Your Brain States, Wisdom from Matthew McConaughey | EP 047 We’re back, and we’re leveling up. In this episode, we recap Will McGuire’s last visit, hype up our plans to bring on new, fascinating guests, and celebrate sticking with this podcast journey. Spoiler...
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"Will McGuire on Starting Your Own Business, Real Estate, Investing & Being a Present Father" | #046
We do apologize for the poor sound quality in this episode, we had some audio issues throughout this episode, but we're still in good spirits because our good friend of the pod and honorary member of the Who Thought We’d Be Here? family, Will McGuire, stops by to drop knowledge, crack jokes, and...
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Breaking Through Creative Blocks on the Spot: An Insight to Overthinking & Self Judgement” | Epsiode 045
In this reflective and candid episode of Who Thought We’d Be Here?, we tackle resistance, overthinking, and finding balance in life and creativity. Recorded the day after the election, we start with a discussion on seasonal warmth in New York and dive into the struggles and lessons of the week....
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"Side Dishes & Self Reflection" | A Thanksgiving Episode
In this special Thanksgiving episode of Who Thought We’d Be Here?, we’re here to keep you company on the way to your family gathering or maybe on that walk before dinner with your favorite cousin. The focus today is all about gratitude, self-reflection, and enjoying the season. We kick things off...
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"That Old B*tch Self Doubt: How to Release Your Past & Prioritize a Meaningful Future" | Episode 044
In this reflective and empowering episode, we dive deep into the subtle yet loud voice of self-doubt and how it impacts your relationships, mindset, and growth. Starting in our brand-new recording space, we explore the art of creating hope for the future and the wisdom behind Lao Tzu’s Tao Te…
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Cutting Out Mindless Scrolling, How to Deal with Making Mistakes, Comparison is the Thief of Joy | Episode 043
In this episode, we dive deep into the journey of self-awareness, personal growth, and creative evolution, exploring themes that resonate with anyone navigating change or creative pursuits. We kick off by defining what this podcast truly represents and drawing inspiration from the likes of Rich...
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“We Got a Camera, Back on the Deck, Finding the Right Content” | Episode 042
Join our exclusive community on GROUPED where you can find uncut episodes, messaging with your hosts, and early access to promotions https://app.grouped.com/whothoughtwedbeherepod Join Whoop with our promotional code and get your first month free!...
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"Healing Your Inner Child, Breaking Generational Traumas, Shoutout to Jelly Roll" | Episode 041
Join our exclusive community on GROUPED where you can find uncut episodes, messaging with your hosts, and early access to promotions https://app.grouped.com/whothoughtwedbeherepod Join Whoop with our promotional code and get your first month free!...
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"Thank You Steven Pressfield, For Every Season, Little Habits Big Changes" | Episode 040
We're 40 episodes into this "podcast" thing and we feel like we're just getting started. Thanks to anyone listening, whether you've been with us since day one or you're new to the "Who Thought We'd Be Here? bandwagon, we appreciate each and every one of you. In this episode, Steve and JP chat…
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"Podcast Pipe Dreams, WTWBH: The Movie, Surprise Surprise Sobriety" | Episode 039
Join our exclusive community on GROUPED where you can find uncut episodes, messaging with your hosts, and early access to promotions https://app.grouped.com/whothoughtwedbeherepod Join Whoop with our promotional code and get your first month free!...
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"Book Club, Religion, Self Applied Pressure" | Episode 038
This episode is brought to you by: the fact that we want to keep podcasting and love doing this shit. Steve & JP (and Eleanor) are back again with a little bit shorter than usual episode on this crisp, autumn day. The fellas return to the roots of the podcast by bringing back their book exchange,...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
"Who Thought We'd Be Here" is a podcast about changing your mind, redefining the stigma around mental health, and living a vulnerable and productive lifestyle.
Both seeking answers from the Universe as they turned 30, co-hosts and longtime pals Steven Aigner and John Pugh found themselves improving in ways their younger and much more wild selves could have never seen coming. They began conquering and healing their past selves with unfamiliar mindfulness tools like meditation, yoga, breath-work, journaling, reading transformative books, and experimenting with mind expanding remedies.
Ignited by a passion to help others struggling with complex problems of their own and a desire to create a new narrative surrounding men's mental health in today's modern society, they created their first collaborative podcast "Who Thought We'd Be Here?" This podcast is all about exploring the boundless potential within ourselves, and to inspire each and every one of us to be fearless in
HOSTED BY
Steven Aigner and John Pugh
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Who Thought We'd Be Here? have?
Who Thought We'd Be Here? currently has 91 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Who Thought We'd Be Here? about?
"Who Thought We'd Be Here" is a podcast about changing your mind, redefining the stigma around mental health, and living a vulnerable and productive lifestyle. Both seeking answers from the Universe as they turned 30, co-hosts and longtime pals Steven Aigner and John Pugh found themselves improving...
How often does Who Thought We'd Be Here? release new episodes?
Who Thought We'd Be Here? has 91 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Who Thought We'd Be Here??
You can listen to Who Thought We'd Be Here? on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Who Thought We'd Be Here??
Who Thought We'd Be Here? is created and hosted by Steven Aigner and John Pugh.
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