Deck Diaries

Are Male and Female brains different ? Join us for a silly and deep conversation about how men and women think, process, and navigate emotions, yeah it's like a puzzle... and we do not have it figured out.

Kaylyn joins us for an unfiltered and deeply personal account of her struggle with Adderall addiction. She opens up about how it began, the gradual loss of control, and the ways it affected her sense of self and daily life. Through honest reflection, she shares the turning points that led her toward recovery, and how she ultimately reclaimed her life.Now, sunrises carry a different weight. Once a reminder of sleepless nights and exhaustion, they’ve become a symbol of renewal... quiet proof of how far she’s come and the new beginnings she continues to choose each day.

In this episode, we curl up and talk about handling the people in our lives who disappoint us or don’t show up... without becoming bitter, closed off, or overly self-critical. We also reflect on honoring those who DO show up and remembering how important that is. Along the way, we’re learning to set healthy boundaries and protect our peace, even when it isn’t easy.

What does it really mean to be the best?Is it social media likes? Awards? Sold-out shows?Or is it something quieter… becoming the best version of yourself?We sat down with Mike Schulte of The Pork Tornadoes and host of the Confused Breakfast Podcast to talk about the difference between external success and internal growth. From packed venues to personal fulfillment, Mike shares what “being the best” has come to mean in his own journey, and why the real scoreboard might not be the one we see online.If you’ve ever measured yourself against a scoreboard the world created, this conversation is for you.We’d love to hear from you 👇What does “being the best” mean in your life right now?

We sat down and had an all over the place conversation about just getting through this life right now. Winter Blues - Check Peri-menopause- Check- State of our messed up world = Double check Finding peace in our own circles - YESSSSS

Depression in men often goes unnoticed,even by the men experiencing it.In this episode, our friend Mike Owens unpacks the impact of childhood trauma, fatherhood, losing friends, and the pressure to “man up.” Through honest reflection and vulnerability, he shares the internal battles that rarely get spoken out loud, and re-frames what “manning up” can truly mean. This is a hopeful, human conversation about growth, connection, and finding strength in sharing your story.

I mean who wouldn't want to spend the night before Christmas with good ole St. Nic Cage Merry Christmas to all !

All things Christmas! Join us on the deck for our Christmas Episode. We talk movies, music, traditions, memories, trying to not stress out during the season... and at the end you'll all receive a special poem treat!

We sat down and unpacked how something as simple as an old photo can hit like a wave. It makes sense that looking at old photos of your ex stirs up a lot. Those images aren’t just pictures, they’re capsules of memory, emotion, and versions of ourselves we don’t always recognize anymore. They remind us of who we were, what we felt, and sometimes, what we’ve lost. So let’s talk about that mix of sadness, anger, nostalgia, and everything in between.

This week we are joined by our friend Naomi to talk about her incredible new song "Way Too High For This" and to recap our epic summer camping trip- the music, the laughs, the moments, and the memories that made it unforgettable.

We sat down with Brain Marshall, the energetic morning DJ from Rock 108, to learn more about the man behind the mic. Brain opened up about his early life, sharing stories from his childhood that helped shape his personality and passion for music. That passion eventually turned into a dream — and with persistence and a love for the industry, he turned that dream into a reality.Whether you're a longtime listener or just tuning in, Brain’s story is a reminder that passion and perseverance can turn a childhood interest into a lifelong career.

Meet the Mamas Behind Odd Mamas Vintage CaféWe sat down with local business owner Sierra and her general manager Hannah to talk all things vintage and new.Sierra opened Odd Mamas Vintage Store two years ago, and now shes expanding into a brand-new venture: Odd Mamas Vintage Cafe, turning her love of odd vintage finds and community vibes into a one of-a-kind shopping and dining experience.Together, Sierra and Hannah are more than business partners. They’re fearless entrepreneurs and mamas to their own little tribes, juggling motherhood and business ownership with authenticity, humor, and hustle.

We switched things up and hit the mic on the Whiskey and Real Estate podcast. We thought we were just talking real estate... then they handed us whiskey! We talked shop, shared stories, and maybe got a little too comfortable with the whiskey Big thanks to the Whiskey and Real Estate crew for having us on!

Meg and I hit the deck solo for this one. Entering our 15th season and nearing the end of summer, we sat back to reflect on life's good and bad, and learning to embrace the suck and still be thankful when it comes our way.

We hit the deck with Clare and Eric from the Z102.9 Morning Show during their local podcast tour. From hometown stories to behind the scenes laughs , it was a blast having these two radio legends on deck. Thanks for stopping by Clare and Eric, come back anytime!

Almost a year ago, we had the privilege of sharing the story of an inspiring woman whose journey—marked by heartbreak, betrayal, and ultimately, resilience—deeply resonated with many of you. Her honesty struck a chord, because sadly, her experience of infidelity and divorce is one that far too many can relate to.Today, we welcome her back—not as the woman in the midst of pain, but as someone who has walked through it and emerged stronger. She returns to share her journey of healing, personal growth, and transformation. Her story is a powerful reminder that even in the aftermath of profound hurt, there is hope. Life can be rich, fulfilling, and even joyful again.

Today, we’re diving into the world of friendships—the real, the messy, the meaningful. As kids, making friends came naturally. But as adults? It takes effort, intention, and sometimes a little vulnerability. In this episode, we’re unpacking why adult friendships matter so much, why they can be so hard to maintain, and how to build deeper connections in a world that often pulls us in every direction.So, settle in, and let’s talk about the friendships that shape us.

We sat down to reflect on Love Is Blind—not just the drama, but what it reveals about dating, vulnerability, and connection in today’s world.Is love really blind? After witnessing emotional proposals through a wall, messy breakups in paradise, and a whole lot of ‘I do… or don’t,’ we’re not so sure.

We sat drown to dissect every steamy, messy, and what in the actual F%&# moment from the hit TV show Temptation Island. Join us for the laughs, the drama, and the uncomfortable truths about what it really means to date someone you just don’t trust...

In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with our amazing co-host Meg for an intimate conversation about the messy, emotional journey of breaking up. We open up about what it really feels like to let go, the struggle of moving forward, and the process of rediscovering who we are on the other side. Whether you're in the thick of it or looking back from a distance, this one's for anyone who's ever had to piece themselves back together.

We brought our old friend Emily on deck to share her passion for dog training and all things canine health and well-being. Get ready for a peek into her world—it’s full of paws, play, pup love, and one absolutely wild story from our 20s that involves a bar, a girls night out , and—believe it or not—a couple of unsuspecting porn stars.Check her out @ https://straightupdogtalk.com/https://straightupdogtalk.com/straight-up-dog-training

This one is not for everyone NSFW.Today, we’re joined by Karen, who spent almost a decade working in the adult store industry. From hilarious customer encounters to the evolution of the business, she’s here to pull back the curtain on a world many are curious about but few truly understand.Huge thanks to Karen for sharing her stories! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review. And if you’ve ever had a funny or memorable experience in an adult store, drop us a message—we’d love to hear it!

Adoption is a powerful and moving experience that fulfills the dreams of women and men who long to be parents, yet we rarely hear the heartfelt stories from the women who lovingly bring these precious children into the world. We sat down with Lindsey to hear her uplifting story of choosing adoption and the secret she kept hidden for far too long.

We sat down with local author and all-around amazing human Lindsey Leahy to chat about her new book, Take It All Apart. Take It All Apart offers a safe space for introspection and self-discovery. The combination of thought-provoking prompts, guided questions, and elements of self-love, encourages and guides you to embrace vulnerability and acknowledge your own experiences and emotions through meaningful self-reflection.  This isn't just a book, it's an internal journey. Get a Copy : Purchase Local from Swamp Fox in Marion Iowa Purchase on Amazon Barnes and Noble 

Our first heartbreak is like a scar that fades but never truly disappears. It lingers in the quiet moments, in old songs, in familiar places, and in the way we learn to guard our hearts.It’s strange how something that once felt like the end of the world can become a lesson, a turning point, or even a source of strength. Sometimes, it pushes us toward unexpected paths—new loves, deeper friendships, or even creative outlets we never knew we needed.And yet, no matter how much time passes, there are always remnants—bits of nostalgia, bittersweet memories, maybe even a version of ourselves we left behind. It’s not just about loss; it’s about growth.

Stay a little longer this year... Remember what is really important... Embrace the chaos... Set boundaries and say no if you need to... Smile when you can and cry if you need to... Merry Christmas, we love you all XOXO Tabby & Meg

We brought our good friend Cale on deck to help us break societal expectations of men and to encourage open conversations about body image and self-esteem. Creating environments where emotional vulnerability is seen as a strength, rather than a weakness, can lead to healthier mental and emotional well-being for everyone, regardless of gender. Cale, you are a beautiful soul, keep doing the inner work! Love always, your human Diaries

Crying in public,Erectile Dysfunction, adult acne, body odor Pre-menopause/Menopause, getting dumped... We sat down with one of our favorite guests Naomi to discuss the importance of normalizing bodily functions and emotions that are often considered embarrassing. Exploring such subjects can foster open dialogues about mental health, body positivity, and the human experience in general. WE ALL DO IT !

Queefs, farts, sweating, chin hairs, getting dumped... We sat down with one of our favorite guests Naomi to discuss the importance of normalizing bodily functions and emotions that are often considered embarrassing. Exploring such subjects can foster open dialogues about mental health, body positivity, and the human experience in general. WE ALL DO IT !

Shifting the focus from debate to discussion, we sat down to talk about the importance of open communication about abortion, regardless of one's stance. Joining us on deck is Katie, a former MTV reality show guest, public speaker, and therapist, who shares her compelling experience and demonstrates how respectful conversation can lead to greater understanding. Inspiring change begins with open dialogue.

Domestic Violence awareness month in October highlights a year-round concern. We sat down to discuss the resources of Waypoint Services with Nelly Hill. Leaving an abusive relationship is a process not an event. Hot Line : 800-208-0388 www.waypointservices.org

Have you ever heard of Partner Poaching ? We hadn't either Partner Poaching is a form of infidelity that occurs when one partner knowingly attracts the mate of another with the intention of starting a sexual and/or romantic relationship with this individual. Naomi joins us on deck to talk in depth about partner poaching and how it can be all around you in plain site.

Its that time a year again! We sat down to chat about the stressors that come with our kids going back to school and how we can manage the stress. We are all juggling schedules, time, emotions, and all that comes with kids in school and life in general.

We sat down with Cat Cantrill, local matchmaker, dating coach, and founder of The Heart Agency, to explore the exciting possibilities of dating when we challenge our assumptions and open ourselves to new experiences. theheartagency.com

Joe Sample joined us on deck to talk about his remarkable adventures supporting local businesses. BE LIKE JOE - SUPPORT LOCAL Follow him on the Cedar Rapids Area Support Local Group

Join us for this incredible story of heartache that turned into new beginnings, self love, art, and clear skies. "I walked upstairs and discovered my life partner at the time had packed everything he owned and had vanished. Without a word. Without explanation. Without warning" Akwi Nji

Brianna joined us on deck to share her story of a relationship filled with betrayal and infidelity. Although the pain and grief can be intense, Brianna learned to love herself, pray for her ex, and find happiness on the other side of divorce. "your'e not Jay-Z either"

Facebook groups created to help identify if their partners are cheating and/or to warn others of "shady" people have gained attention across the globe. To some peoples surprise they found out that their partners were cheating. BUT.... could people also be creating fake posts to stir the pot with people they have issues with? Pages like this have left us with torn opinions, so we hit the deck and interviewed the admin of the local 319 page and our dear friend CC to talk about the good, the bad, and the WTF's of pages like this. Surprise Guest Co-Host Naomi

Religion is always a touchy conversation to have, but that is what we do. Ambrea and Meg opened up about their religious backgrounds and upbringings; the good, the bad and the impact it left.

Meg turned the mic on me and asked me 20 questions to get to know me a little more... and a little game we call Marry , Fuck, Block

Is getting a Love Coupon from your partner for 1 free "l'll do the dishes" or "I'll cook and clean" a good thing or not? We brought Naomi on deck to talk about shared responsibilities in a partnership and how to navigate having those conversations with your partner in a healthy way so you don't feel like you are doing it all on your own.

Ed's story is so incredible we had to give you a Part 2 ! By far one of the most resilient and positive, humans we have ever had the pleasure of meeting. Life gave him wheels; so he popped a wheelie.

We had the chance to deck it up with Comedian and Bad ass human Ed Burroughs. His story is profound and inspiring. How will you be remembered... Ed Burroughs

Jodi with Big Heart Meditation and Mindfulness joined us on deck to talk about opening her heart and mind to meditation and sharing what she has learned with others. Meditation is one of the most important practices one can do for themselves... Jodi Stepanek https://www.facebook.com/bigheartMM

Dating now a days is not easy... Dating Apps are trash, ghosting is a thing, and the culture has drastically changed. We asked a couple of our amazing friends, Collin and Skip to come on deck and give us their perspective and shed light on the commonalities that we as women and men share in the search for connection.

Have you ever heard the saying "glimmer of hope"? This family IS THAT GLIMMER. Jamie and Cale joined us on deck to share their amazing story of being that glimmer for their little girl. In the toughest of times they walked toward one another, stood strong as a family and believed in miracles. Tatum you are my hero... This ones for you girl! www.kissyourkidsfoundation.org https://www.facebook.com/KissYourKidsFoundation

We sat down with Heather to talk about the struggles, highlights, and balancing act of owning and running a restaurant, being a mom, and finding time for herself. https://www.facebook.com/LuckysCR https://www.luckyson16th.net/

Our friend Chapis joins us on deck to talk openly about her journey of self discovery, polyamory, and what love looks like for her

The amazing Brian Marshall asked us to come on the Rock 108 morning show to chat and play Marshall's Market place against Rock 108 DJ Russ.

I met Laura at the HER speaking series event; and HER story rocked me to my core. Mental Health does not discriminate and affects all of us humans in one way or another. Support NAMI Linn County facebook.com/NAMILinnCountyIowa namilinncounty.org