Explore every episode of the podcast Passion Pod

Chris Johnson sits down with tattoo icon and 3-time Ink Master champion (and current judge!) DJ Tambe at the Middle of the Map Tattoo Convention in Des Moines, Iowa. DJ gets candid about his road to sobriety, what it was really like competing on Best Ink and Ink Master, the hardest judging decisions he's ever had to make, getting paid $50,000 by Subway, living in a house with 20 tattoo artists, and what it felt like to finally get the call to be a judge.

If you love tattoo culture, comeback stories, and behind-the-scenes TV drama — this one's for you.

Follow DJ Tambe: @DJTambe

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Ink Master Season 15 winner Bobby Johnson sits down with Passion Pod for one of his most candid interviews yet. From the truth about what he actually took home after taxes on the $250k prize, to the flash challenge he'd do all over again, his most meaningful tattoo ever, how he went from skateboarding to tattooing, the wild origin of his "Glendale Bully" name, and the one regret he has from his entire time on the show — this conversation goes deep. 🏆🖤

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He told Ink Master producers he'd never do their "stupid show." Then he did it twice and finished second both times. Season 8 and Season 14 Ink Master runner up Gian Karle sits down for a wide open conversation covering everything — from working as a beach attendant and photographer's assistant in Puerto Rico, to traveling the country out of hotels doing conventions, to competing against the best tattoo artists in the world on national TV.

Gian breaks down the gunpowder flash challenge that blew fire to the ceiling, the watercolor tattoo that embarrassed him at his own viewing party back home, the moment he cried in an elevator after playing dirty to stay in the competition, the Katie cushion incident that looked meaner on TV than it actually was, and why he genuinely believes the show changed the entire financial landscape of tattooing.

Plus — his picks for the scariest artists in an all-star season, which judges were the most and least biased, what DJ is really like off camera, and why his mom's reaction at the Season 8 finale is still one of his most cherished memories.

First time hearing this story in long form. Don't miss it.

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He made it to the Ink Master Season 17 finale, cried in front of the judges over a tattoo he made for his wife, protected 6 years of sobriety surrounded by drunk castmates, and is now opening one of Pittsburgh's most anticipated new tattoo shops — Seth Holmes sits down for his very first long-form interview and leaves absolutely nothing on the table.

From surviving an abusive childhood and battling addiction, to fronting a metal band, learning to tattoo under Ink Master's Sarah Miller, and competing against some of the best artists in the country — this is the full, unfiltered story of how a self-described "nobody from Pittsburgh" made it onto national TV and came out the other side a changed artist.

Plus — the psychological tactics Ink Master producers use to break contestants on camera, the drama with Matt that was both completely real and completely staged, what Ryan Ashley said to him that made him come out swinging, and what's coming next with his brand new shop Sleepwalker Tattoo.

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World renowned new school tattoo artist and 2-time Ink Master contestant Jesse Smith sits down with Chris Johnson on the Passion Pod for one of the most in-depth conversations he's ever had. From getting busted for graffiti in Germany at 17, to selling Flash up and down the East Coast, to getting the call that changed his career forever — this one covers it all. Jesse opens up about why he thinks Ink Master cast him as the "one trick pony" from day one, the real drama behind the cameras, getting flown to Australia with 50 people on a waitlist overnight, building Loose Screw Tattoo, running the Richmond Tattoo Convention through COVID and personal tragedy, and the fictional world of Carkayous — the universe behind every tattoo he creates. Plus timeless advice for artists, clients, and anyone building something from scratch.

One of the best we've ever done. Don't skip this one.

🎙️ Passion Pod — Where passion meets conversation.

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What happens when a funny rapper keeps going long after a "reasonable person" would quit? You end up with Justin Bieber sharing your music and selling out shows across the country. 🎤

In this episode, Chris sits down with Scoochie Boochie (Michael Ribbens) — the comedy rapper behind viral hits like Carbutt and I Have Sex — to talk about blowing up on social media, building a fanbase from nothing, life on tour, concept albums, the Bible, and why keeping your sailor hat on is always the right call.

Topics covered:

• Going viral with Carbutt and gaining 10K followers mid-flight
• How Justin Bieber & SZA sharing his content changed everything
• Quitting his architecture tour job to rap full-time
• Why comedy rap is harder to sell than it looks
• Lonely Island, Bible lore, mustaches & more

🎙️ Passion Pod — Real people. Passion-driven careers. Unfiltered stories.

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Green Bay Packers legend and Pro Football Hall of Famer LeRoy Butler sits down with Passion Pod for one of his most candid interviews yet. From growing up in extreme poverty in Jacksonville to creating the most iconic celebration in NFL history — the Lambeau Leap — LeRoy holds nothing back.

In this episode: 🏈 Brett Favre's off-field memories & the Pack Attack TV show 🏈 How Deion Sanders gave him his nickname "Roy Lee" 🏈 The untold story of replacing Deion at Florida State 🏈 Reggie White's impact on the Packers' Super Bowl run 🏈 Battling anxiety, dyslexia & claustrophobia throughout his career 🏈 His new book Locker Room Therapy, Leap 36 Vodka & his upcoming documentary

If you love football, real stories, and people who lived life on their own terms — this one's for you.

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Comedy magician Wes Barker aka Stuntmagician joins Passion Pod to talk about viral YouTube success, America’s Got Talent, Pen & Teller, TV shows, live performance, and hilarious magic fails. If you love comedy, magic, entertainment, and behind-the-scenes stories from a professional magician, this episode is for you.

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In this episode of Passion Pod, Chris Johnson sits down with stand up comedian Ashley Gavin for a candid conversation about comedy, internet fame, podcasting, public backlash, and what it takes to keep going after a career-changing moment. Ashley shares stories from cruise ship comedy, touring, building an audience online, and how her perspective on stand-up has changed over time.

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In this episode of Passion Pod, Chris Johnson sits down with DC comic book artist Doug Mahnke for a wide-ranging conversation about his career in comics, creativity, and storytelling. Doug shares behind-the-scenes stories from working on Batman, The Mask, Green Lantern, Superman, and more, along with how he broke into the comic book industry and built a career spanning more than 30 years.

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What’s the difference between hallucinations and delusions—and what does schizophrenia actually feel like day to day? In this episode, mental health advocate and influencer Kody Green (aka “The Schizophrenic Hippie”) shares his story of addiction, incarceration, diagnosis, medication, and recovery—plus the often-misunderstood “positive vs. negative symptoms,” stigma, and how families can support a loved one in psychosis.

Featuring: Kody Green aka The Schizophrenic Hippie (motivational speaker, podcaster, author of Minds Over Meetings).

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Former college baseball player turned baseball influencer Ryan Ellingson joins the Passion Pod at Kwik Trip in La Crosse, Wisconsin to share how he went from travel ball and college baseball to building a creator career—landing brand deals with MLB, the Minnesota Twins, and getting sent to MLB All-Star Week, including on-field access for batting practice just feet from Shohei Ohtani. We also talk Twins fandom, baseball culture, and what it takes to turn baseball content into a real business.

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Legendary underground rapper R.A. the Rugged Man sits down at First Avenue in Minneapolis for a raw, hilarious, and heartfelt interview. We talk touring with Atmosphere/Slug, signing a major-label deal as a teen, getting blackballed from shows, the story behind “Uncommon Valor,” wild concert moments, and his passion for filmmaking (including Bad Biology and Suicide Disco). If you’re into underground hip hop, rap history, and real artist stories—this one’s for you.

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Tommy G is a Milwaukee-based documentary maker with over 3 million subscribers on YouTube, and his work takes you everywhere—from Grand Theft Auto stories and street-level chaos to investigating some of the worst prisons in the United States… and even exposing Scientology for what it is.

In this conversation, we get into what it really takes to tell stories that hit hard: earning trust, walking into uncomfortable places, staying safe, and keeping your humanity when the internet only wants the “craziest clip.” Tommy’s got that rare mix of curiosity + courage, and I think you’re going to leave this episode feeling fired up to chase the stories you’re meant to tell.

If you’re into documentaries, investigative storytelling, or just hearing how someone builds something massive by following their obsession—this one’s for you.

Watch the full episode, and let me know your favorite moment in the comments.

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In this bonus episode we catch up with country music artist Chris Kroeze. Chris has been a guest on the show twice in the past, but it's been a couple of years since we last chatted. Chris has a brand new album titled "Even Rednecks Get The Blues". In this interview we get the inside scoop on all the new music. Chris also shares his favorite Wisconsin venues, which country stars have better beards than him, his most embarrassing moment on stage, and more.

In this episode of The Passion Pod, we sit down with tattoo icon and Ink Master fan-favorite Clean Rock One—widely known as one of the most televised tattooers in Ink Master history. Filmed at the Minneapolis Arts Tattoo Festival, Clean opens up about the real stories behind his name, his early days in graffiti, getting arrested, almost joining the army, and how tattooing became his life.

We also get into the behind-the-scenes reality of Ink Master: auditions, casting, producer strategy, what it’s like living on set, how the critiques are filmed, how much contestants get paid, and why “doing great tattoos” isn’t enough to survive reality TV. Clean shares his favorite and least favorite Ink Master tattoos, what he wishes the show rewarded artistically, and how TV fame changed the kinds of clients he attracts.

Plus: Clean talks about selling Golden Skull Tattoo in Las Vegas (and passing it to his son), building the Chrome Gypsy Compound in Kewanee, Illinois (a school turned into a tattoo shop/bar/arcade/event space), and his goal to turn it into a must-see art destination.

Featured Guest: Clean Rock One

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Mark Longenecker is a renowned tattoo artist who became known worldwide after placing 4th on Season 5 of the hit TV show Ink Master. With over 30 years behind the machine, Mark is the owner of Endless Summer Tattoos in Cocoa Beach, Florida—and when he’s not tattooing, he’s usually chasing waves as an avid surfer and ocean lover.

In this episode, we get into what it was really like competing on Ink Master, the very first tattoo Mark ever did on someone, and the path that led him into the industry in the first place. Mark also shares how he got hired to work for Jimmy Buffett, what it took to open his own shop, and how he developed his signature “Tropi Style” tattoos—pulling inspiration from traditional Japanese design and translating it into something uniquely his.

We also talk about how Ink Master changed his life, what he’s learned from decades of tattooing, and the mindset it takes to keep evolving as an artist.

Corey “Thunder” Law takes you behind the scenes with the Harlem Globetrotters—recorded before their show at The Sonnentag Center in Eau Claire, Wisconsin on January 2, 2026.

In this interview, Corey shares the full journey: his first dunk at 12 years old, becoming a college dunk star, the moment he dropped the ball in the NCAA dunk contest, and how he ultimately got drafted by the Harlem Globetrotters. We also get into what he learned from Globetrotter legends, world records, his all-time favorite Globetrotters, catching an alley-oop from Snoop Dogg, surprising a kid with cancer, and the wildest moments from traveling the world.

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Leon Ondieki is a viral content creator from Atlanta who’s built 9+ million followers across his platforms—and he’s only 23. In this episode, Leon breaks down how he went viral on TikTok in high school (one video hit 8 million views and gained 100,000 followers in a week), how he landed his first major brand deal with What Do You Meme, and how that first sponsorship helped him make $50,000 in a single month—money he used to buy his first car and pay for college.

Leon also shares why he took a gap semester to focus on content full-time, what he’s learned from generating billions of views, and the strategies he uses to turn attention into real audience growth.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What makes content go viral (and how to repeat it)
• How to convert views into followers
• Sponsorship + monetization lessons from early wins
• Practical growth strategies you can apply to your own social media

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34-time Guinness World Record holder Adam Winrich joins Passion Pod to break down the real world of professional whip cracking—how a whip crack breaks the sound barrier, what it takes to set Guinness records, and what it was like appearing on Conan and America’s Got Talent. Adam also shares wild travel stories (Australia, Italy, China), Renaissance festival life on the road, and how viral videos impact a performer’s career.

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Voice actor David Errigo Jr. (the current voice of Ferb on Phineas and Ferb) joins Passion Pod live from Twin Cities Con 2025. We talk about the Phineas and Ferb reboot, anime dubbing vs video game VO vs animation, union advocacy, character integrity, and an emotional convention story that reminded him why this work matters.

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Featured guest: David Errigo Jr.

Epic Lloyd and Nice Peter from Epic Rap Battles of History join Passion Pod at Twin Cities Con 2025 for a behind-the-scenes deep dive into how ERB became one of YouTube’s longest-running hit channels.

We talk about:

• How ERB started (early YouTube + Maker Studios era)
• Writing and production process (quality over quantity)
• Collaborations with T-Pain, Weird Al Yankovic, Snoop Dogg, Key & Peele, Skrillex and more
• Touring, burnout, budgets, and what it takes to keep creating at a high level
• Favorite stories from the booth and the set

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Featured guests: Epic Lloyd & Nice Peter (Epic Rap Battles of History)

Andrea Boehlke—producer and co-host of Discover Wisconsin’s podcast “The Cabin” and three-time CBS Survivor contestant—joins Chris Johnson on the Passion Pod for a revealing conversation about life on and off the island. Andrea shares how she got cast on Survivor, the biggest behind-the-scenes challenges, her most embarrassing moments, and what really happens when the cameras stop rolling. Hear about her greatest regrets, friendships with other contestants, favorite and toughest challenges, and the funniest stories with Jeff Probst. Plus, get the inside scoop on Survivor pay, post-show life, and more.

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Comedian Ryan Goodcase—winner of the World Series of Comedy and featured at the Netflix Is a Joke Festival—joins Passion Pod for a hilarious and honest conversation about life as a stand-up comic. Hear Ryan’s behind-the-scenes stories, viral moments, and the ups and downs of building a comedy career. From embarrassing stage mishaps to real talk about social media, ticket sales, and creative pressure, this episode is packed with laughs and insights for comedy fans and aspiring creators.

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Follow and subscribe for more inspiring interviews with passionate creators and artists!

Episode 206 – 414 Big Frank: From Walmart to Viral Milwaukee Rap Star

Milwaukee rap artist 414 Big Frank has been lighting up the internet with his viral songs, dance videos, and big personality. His breakout hit “Backpack” put him on the map in 2022, and his latest single “There It Is” has already racked up over 2,000,000 streams on Spotify in just a few months.

In this episode of Passion Pod, Frank opens up about his wild journey so far — from clocking in (and stealing from) Walmart to becoming one of Milwaukee’s most recognizable rap voices. We dive into:

• How he found the beat for “Backpack” on YouTube and why he still has to split the money
• The story behind “There It Is” and going viral on social media
• His favorite celebrity encounters and Milwaukee rappers
• His most memorable performances and music videos
• Losing his Instagram account and getting arrested after committing a crime on IG Live
• The origin of the ski goggles he always wears
• What makes Milwaukee rap different from everywhere else

If you love authentic come-up stories, Midwest rap, and unfiltered honesty, this episode is for you.

Charlie Berens joins Chris Johnson for a deep dive into comedy, confidence, and the chaos of a busy creative career. In this episode, Charlie shares his most embarrassing moment on stage, his favorite memory of bringing his grandma up during a show, and what it felt like to step onto Lambeau Field for the first time. He also talks about his new animated movie on Netflix, why stand-up comedy is the most important part of his career, how he deals with imposter syndrome, and how he juggles touring, content creation, acting, and real life.

If you’re a fan of Charlie Berens, Midwest humor, stand-up comedy, or honest conversations about what it really takes to build a creative career, you’ll get a ton out of this episode.

🎣 T Fish: My Journey to Catch 1,000 Fish on Camera | Passion Pod Ep. 204 🎣

In this inspiring episode of Passion Pod, host Chris Johnson sits down with David Tiefenthaler—a dedicated fisherman, 7th grade English teacher, and long-time content creator from Wisconsin. David, known online as T Fish, has spent nearly a decade sharing his fishing adventures and expertise with the world.

After completing an incredible challenge of catching 50 different fish species in Wisconsin, David is now on a bold new mission: to catch 1,000 unique species of fish on camera, creating a video for each one. His journey blends education, adventure, and a deep love for the outdoors, offering both tips for fellow anglers and stories that spark curiosity about the natural world.

In this episode, David opens up about:

How an injury shifted his passion from running to fishing

The origins of his content creation journey

His favorite fish to catch (and why!)

Memorable fishing stories and lessons learned along the way

The challenges and excitement of setting—and chasing—big goals

Whether you’re a fishing enthusiast, an aspiring creator, or just love a great story about following your passion, this episode is for you!

Episode 203: Sam Demma — Inspiring Youth, Redefining Success, and Being Someone’s Taco

In this episode of Passion Pod, we sit down with Sam Demma, a world-traveling Canadian youth keynote speaker who has delivered hundreds of speeches to inspire and empower young people across the globe. Sam is the author of the self-help book Empty Your Backpack, a must-read for young adults looking to unlock their potential, and he’s just released his first children’s book, Be Someone’s Taco.

Join us as Sam shares his most memorable moments on stage, the life lessons he’s learned from speaking to diverse audiences, and how his perspective on life and success has evolved over the last few years. We dive into why success looks different for everyone, the importance of self-discovery, and the power of making a positive impact—no matter your age.

Tune in for heartfelt stories, practical advice, and a fresh take on what it means to live a life full of purpose and passion.

In this episode, Chris Johnson sits down with Wisconsin’s own Michael Perry—best-selling author of Population 485, celebrated music artist, and humorist known for his wit and wisdom. Mike shares what it was like growing up on a farm and how those rural roots shaped his creative journey.

Discover how Mike hustled his way into a writing career, taking every job he could find, and hear about his early influences—including a unique friendship with Justin Vernon of Bon Iver. Mike opens up about the inspiration behind his new book, Improbable Mentors, and the surprising story of why he turned down an invitation to appear on the Oprah show.

The conversation also dives into Mike’s relationship with PBS Wisconsin, where he crafts original comedy content, and his personal picks for favorite artists and music venues across the Midwest. From laughter to life lessons, this episode is packed with heartfelt stories and creative inspiration.

Tune in for:

• Growing up on a Wisconsin farm
• Mike’s first steps into writing and storytelling
• Building a career by saying yes to every opportunity
• Friendship and collaboration with Justin Vernon
• Behind the scenes of Improbable Mentors
• Turning down the Oprah show
• Creating comedy for PBS Wisconsin
• Midwest music, venues, and more

Episode 201: Embracing the Okayest—Hunting, Humor, and Community with Eric Clark & Tyler Mieden

Join Chris Johnson as he sits down with Eric Clark and Tyler Mieden, the passionate duo behind the Okayest Hunter brand. In this episode, Eric and Tyler open up about their very first hunting experiences and the serendipitous way they met, leading to the birth of a brand that celebrates authenticity in the hunting community.

Discover the story behind Eric’s "Where to Hunt" app and how it evolved into a podcast, plus the surprising impact of online shaming that inspired the Okayest Hunter movement. The conversation gets real about the power of positive messages from fans who finally feel seen and supported, thanks to Okayest Hunter’s mission.

Expect plenty of laughs as Eric and Tyler share their funniest hunting mistakes, poke fun at industry gimmicks, and reflect on the joy of not taking themselves—or hunting—too seriously. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman or just love a good story about turning challenges into community, this episode will leave you inspired to embrace your own “okayest” moments.

Tune in for:

• First hunting stories & how Eric and Tyler met
• The evolution from app to podcast
• How online shaming sparked a movement
• Messages from fans who found confidence through Okayest Hunter
• Gimmicks, goofs, and the funniest hunting mistakes
• And much more!

How do you go from quitting the sport you love to becoming a full-time professional bowler? Kelly Whipple’s journey is all about resilience, rediscovery, and rolling with the punches—literally.

Kelly, a Sheboygan, Wisconsin native, first picked up a bowling ball at age 3, but it wasn’t until a coworker at McDonald’s convinced her to join the middle school team that her true bowling journey began. Despite a rocky start, Kelly’s relentless practice paid off—culminating in a high school state championship and a standout collegiate career at UW Whitewater, where she was named D3 Rookie of the Year and Player of the Year.

But the path wasn’t always smooth. After her worst season as a junior, Kelly nearly walked away from the sport. Instead, she started a bowling Instagram to rediscover the fun, connected with new coaches, and made a stunning comeback her senior year. Now, as a full-time pro bowler, she’s turning heads on the lanes and online.

In this episode, we dive deep into:

• Kelly’s early years and the unlikely McDonald’s moment that brought her back to bowling
• The grind from middle school beginner to high school state champ
• College bowling highs and lows: awards, setbacks, and comebacks
• Living with and caring for her grandparents while chasing her dreams
• How hating to be bad at anything fueled her growth
• Getting sponsored by Kwik Trip and navigating funny online comments
• Bowling through the pandemic (including some epic Wii Bowling)
• The astonishing comeback that changed her pro career trajectory
• Almost becoming an insurance agent—and why she didn’t
• Using social media jobs to level up her own brand
• What it really means to be a professional bowler
• How to choose the right bowling ball, and so much more

If you’re into stories of perseverance, reinvention, and chasing your passion—this episode is for you. 🎳

From summer camp curiosity to global disc golf pioneer—Terry Miller, aka “The Disc Golf Guy,” shares how a childhood passion became a lifelong career. Terry opens up about discovering the sport as a kid, competing professionally in college, and the Gary Vee spark that pushed him to launch his vlog and personal brand. He walks us through the leap of faith—quitting his IT job at Kohl’s—to pursue disc golf full-time, and the five-year grind it took to make it sustainable.

We dig into:

• Early days: falling in love with disc golf at summer camp
• The Gary Vee book that inspired his content journey
• Quitting corporate IT to chase the dream
• Building The Disc Golf Guy brand and podcast (10+ years running)
• Helping pioneer live disc golf coverage and media standards
• Favorite memories traveling the world for the sport
• The patience, resilience, and community that made it all possible

If you care about turning passion into a career—or you’re part of the disc golf community—this one’s packed with insight, heart, and history.

Episode 198: Grant Anderson – The Journey of a Brewers Relief Pitcher

In this episode, Chris sits down with Milwaukee Brewers relief pitcher Grant Anderson for an inside look at the highs, lows, and unforgettable moments of his baseball journey. Originally from Texas, Grant opens up about growing up with his twin brother—also a pro ballplayer—and the sibling rivalry and support that shaped his early years.

Grant shares his favorite memories from high school and college baseball, the thrill of being drafted by the Seattle Mariners, and the tough moments that nearly made him walk away during his time with the Texas Rangers. He talks about the life-changing trade to the Brewers, how the coaches in Milwaukee have helped him elevate his game, and why the support of his family has been the key to his perseverance.

Hear what makes this Brewers team so special, plus Grant’s favorite memories from his career so far. Whether you’re a baseball fan or just love a good underdog story, this episode is packed with inspiration, behind-the-scenes insight, and heartfelt moments.

Episode 197: Cristian Strehlow – The Soundtrack to 680 Million Streams

In this episode, Chris sits down with Cristian Strehlow, the creative force behind some of the most recognizable lo-fi and instrumental beats on the internet. With over 680 million streams across his various aliases, Cristian’s music has become the backdrop for countless TV shows—including major hits like RuPaul’s Drag Race.

Cristian shares how his journey began in Milwaukee and how a pivotal track on Chillhop in 2018 became his big break, opening doors to collaborations and opportunities across the globe. Now based in California, Cristian reflects on building a career in music, the evolution of the lo-fi genre, and what it’s like hearing his work on television.

Tune in for insights on creative hustle, the power of streaming, and what it takes to stand out in today’s music industry!

In this powerful episode, Chris sits down with Hansel Canady, owner of Hancan Barbershop and the official barber for the Green Bay Packers—including head coach Matt LaFleur and many of the team’s biggest stars. But Hansel’s journey is about so much more than fresh fades and celebrity clients.

Hansel opens up about his childhood in Chicago, including the traumatic experience of being jumped and beaten so badly he was put into a coma. He shares the challenges of moving to Green Bay, facing racism in school and the community, and the struggles that led him down a path of selling drugs and serving prison time.

This episode dives deep into Hansel’s story of resilience—finding his first job as a felon at a gas station, graduating from beauty school, and building his business from the ground up by handing out business cards to every customer who walked through the door. Hansel’s raw honesty and determination will inspire anyone who’s ever faced adversity or dreamed of a second chance.

Tune in for an unforgettable conversation about redemption, hustle, and the power of believing in yourself—no matter where you start.

Episode 195: Chad Vandegriffe – From Backyard Soccer to the World Stage

Join us for an inspiring conversation with professional soccer player Chad Vandegriffe! Chad shares his journey from kicking a ball around as a kid to competing at the highest levels of the sport. He opens up about his early days in soccer, the nerves and excitement of trying out for pro teams, and what it’s like to win major awards and travel the world as an athlete.

Chad dives into the lessons he’s learned about the intricacies of the game, the stories behind his impressive jersey collection, and the realities of getting older as a player. Whether you’re a lifelong soccer fan or just love a good underdog story, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and inspiration.

In this episode:

• Chad’s introduction to soccer as a kid
• The challenges of pro team tryouts
• Winning awards and traveling the globe
• Learning the deeper strategies of the game
• Collecting jerseys and the stories behind them
• Navigating the ups and downs of a long career
• Advice for young athletes and more!

Listen now and get inspired by Chad’s passion, perseverance, and love for the beautiful game.

In this episode of Passion Pod, I sit down with Wisconsin’s former Lieutenant Governor, Mandela Barnes, for an inspiring and candid conversation.

Mandela shares his backstory and the pivotal moments that shaped his political journey, from growing up in Milwaukee to becoming the state’s first Black lieutenant governor. He opens up about his favorite memories campaigning alongside Barack Obama, Kamala Harris, and Governor Tony Evers, offering behind-the-scenes stories and insights you won’t hear anywhere else.

We also dive into what Mandela is working on now, his thoughts on term limits, and his vision for the future of Wisconsin and beyond. Whether you’re passionate about politics or just love a good story, this episode is packed with inspiration, wisdom, and a few laughs along the way.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you enjoyed this episode!

Connect with us:

Instagram: @passionpod

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Episode 193 – Benjamin Percy: Writing Legends, From Wolverine to Star Wars

This week, Chris sits down with Benjamin Percy—a powerhouse storyteller whose pen brings iconic characters to life. Ben writes the legendary Wolverine and Punisher comics for Marvel, crafts stories for Star Wars, and even dives into the world of Predator comics. He’s also the mind behind several acclaimed novels and the director of a chilling horror short film.

Tune in as Ben shares his creative process, what it’s like shaping the destinies of fan-favorite heroes, and how he balances writing for comics, novels, and film. Whether you’re a comic book superfan, a Star Wars enthusiast, or just love a good story, this episode is packed with inspiration, behind-the-scenes tales, and creative wisdom.

Don’t miss:

• How Ben approaches writing for legendary franchises
• His journey from novelist to comic book writer
• Stories from the set of his horror short film
• Advice for aspiring writers and storytellers

Hit play and get inspired by one of the most dynamic voices in modern storytelling!

Get to know Fullermoe, the creative force behind some of the most iconic streetwear merch in the game! In this episode, Chris Johnson sits down with Fuller to talk about his journey from up-and-coming designer to working with major stars like Lizzo, Childish Gambino, New Found Glory, Miley Cyrus, Wu Tang Clan, 21 Savage, Gucci Mane, Eminem, and more.

Fuller shares:

How he developed his one-of-a-kind streetwear style

The wild stories behind designing merch for music legends

What it’s really like collaborating with A-list artists

His creative process and inspiration

Tips for aspiring designers looking to break into the merch world

And so much more!

Whether you’re a streetwear enthusiast, music fan, or just love hearing creative journeys, this episode is packed with inspiration and behind-the-scenes stories you won’t want to miss.

Episode 191: Comrade Tripp

In this episode, Chris sits down with comedian Comrade Tripp for a candid and hilarious conversation about his journey into the world of comedy. Comrade shares how he got his start, his lifelong love for Pokémon, and how going viral online gave his career a major boost. They also dive into his pivotal role in growing the comedy scene in Minnesota and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

Whether you’re a comedy fan, a Pokémon enthusiast, or just love a good underdog story, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in this episode!

Tune in for laughs, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes stories from one of Minnesota’s rising comedy stars.

—

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and check out more episodes at passionpod.org!

#ComradeTripp #PassionPod #Comedy #MinnesotaComedy #Pokemon #GoingViral

🎨 Passion Pod Ep. 190: Brent Schoonover — The TRUTH about Drawing for Marvel! 🦸‍♂️

Join Chris Johnson for an exclusive interview with acclaimed comic book artist Brent Schoonover! In this episode, Brent pulls back the curtain on the comic book industry and shares his incredible journey from discovering comics as a kid to drawing for some of the biggest names in the business.

Tune in to hear Brent discuss:

His introduction to comics and early inspirations

Earning a college degree in comic book illustration

Drawing Toy Story comics and how that opened new doors

Breaking into DC and Marvel, and what it’s really like working for them

Creating his own comic book series, Devil’s Highway

Designing iconic cereal box art for Count Chocula

How comic book artists actually get paid (the real truth!)

Why the Incredible Hulk is his all-time favorite superhero

And so much more behind-the-scenes insight!

Whether you’re a comic book fan, aspiring artist, or just love a great creative story, you won’t want to miss this deep dive into the world of comics with Brent Schoonover.

🎬 Episode 189: Making Movies in the Midwest with Ramon Swift Sloan

In this inspiring episode of Passion Pod, host Chris Johnson sits down with Milwaukee-based independent film director Ramon Swift Sloan. Together, they dive into the unique challenges and rewarding triumphs of making movies in Wisconsin and the greater Midwest—far from the glitz of Hollywood.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Ramon Swift Sloan’s journey as an independent filmmaker in Milwaukee, WI
• The realities and opportunities of producing films in the Midwest
• Practical tips for aspiring filmmakers and creatives looking to break into the industry
• How community, resourcefulness, and passion fuel Ramon’s projects and success

Whether you’re a film buff, a creative, or just love stories about people pursuing their passions, this episode delivers real insights and inspiration from the heart of the Midwest film scene.

🔗 Discover more:

Listen and watch on all platforms: passionpod.org

👕 Shop exclusive merch: passionpod.org/merch

💡 Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/passionpod

📸 Instagram: @passionpod

🎥 TikTok: @passionpodofficial

#IndependentFilm #MidwestMovies #RamonSwiftSloan #WisconsinFilm #PassionPod #FilmmakerInterview #Podcast

What does it take to keep pushing the boundaries in snowboarding? In this episode, pro snowboarder Joe Sexton opens up about his journey from riding handrails to running Public Snowboards, his role as Competition Director for the Red Bull Heavy Metal snowboard contest series, and what goes into creating legendary events. Joe also shares his favorite snowboarding videos, the scariest trick he’s ever landed, and the stories that shaped his career.

BabyJake: “Cigarettes On Patios” — The Untold Story | Passion Pod

In this exclusive episode of Passion Pod, host Chris Johnson sits down with BabyJake, the genre-blending artist behind the viral hit “Cigarettes On Patios.” Discover the real story behind the song, the creative journey that led to its success, and what inspires BabyJake’s unique sound.

🎤 What you’ll hear in this episode:

The inspiration and meaning behind “Cigarettes On Patios”

BabyJake’s musical journey and rise to fame

Behind-the-scenes stories from writing and recording the hit

Insights into BabyJake’s creative process and influences

Advice for aspiring musicians and songwriters

Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering BabyJake, this episode is packed with exclusive stories, music industry insights, and creative inspiration.

🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring interviews with artists, musicians, and creators who are turning their passions into careers.

Listen to more episodes: https://passionpod.org

🎨 Lucas Beaufort: Skateboarding Has Taken Me All Over the World to Paint | Passion Pod Ep. 186

In this episode of Passion Pod, host Chris Johnson welcomes Lucas Beaufort—an internationally recognized artist, skateboarder, and muralist whose passion for skateboarding has inspired a creative journey across the globe. Lucas shares how skateboarding became the foundation for his art, leading him to paint murals in cities worldwide and collaborate with top skate brands.

🛹 What you’ll hear in this episode:

Lucas Beaufort’s journey from skateboarding to becoming a global artist

How skate culture continues to inspire his artwork and collaborations

Stories and lessons from painting murals around the world

The intersection of art, travel, and the skateboarding community

Advice for aspiring artists and skaters

Insights into Lucas’s creative process and philosophy

🌟 About Passion Pod:

Passion Pod features inspirational stories from unique guests who’ve built careers around what they love. Hosted by Chris Johnson, each episode delivers creative insights, motivational stories, and practical tips for dreamers, entrepreneurs, and artists.

In this episode of Passion Pod, we sit down with Ali Sultan, a stand-up comedian and writer based in New York City who’s taken the comedy world by storm. With appearances on Comedy Central and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Ali’s comedy specials and albums have reached millions of viewers worldwide.

Born in Yemen and raised in Ethiopia before moving to Minnesota at 15, Ali shares his incredible journey from discovering stand-up comedy on late-night TV to performing globally. We dive into his roots in Minneapolis, his ties to Eau Claire, and how his first open mic experience sparked his passion for comedy.

Ali opens up about performing clean sets, playing quirky characters at college parties, and the importance of creating art for the right reasons. Whether you’re a comedy fan or simply looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with laughs, heartfelt moments, and plenty of wisdom.

Tune in for an unforgettable conversation with one of comedy’s rising stars!

Trevor Newlin is a Los Angeles based suit actor most notable for his role as the Xenomorph in Alien Romulus.

Trevor first discovered his love for theatre while still in high school growing up in Texas. After graduating he went to college for theatre before eventually attending film school in Los Angeles. His initial goal was to get into voice acting, but while he was still in school his professor recommended that he consider suit acting instead due to his unusually tall (6 foot 7 inches) and slender build. Peaking his curiosity Trevor reached out to the legendary suit actor Doug Jones through a simple DM on Instagram and miraculously Doug responded and agreed to a meeting that turned into a conversation lasting over 3 hours long. Taking Doug's advice Trevor found himself meeting make up artists and participating in Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios. Things snowballed from there and he has since acted in international ad campaigns for Amazon, been featured in trailers for American Horror Story, wore a Wookie suit in Disney's Mandalorian 2, became a monster in Smile 2, and played his most iconic role of the Xenomorph in Alien Romulus.

In this episode we discuss a shared love for thePackers, hosting a podcast during the pandemic, meeting the team at Legacy Effects, becoming the Amazon Yeti, working on the set of Star Wars, taking arguably the most iconic creature role ever for Alien Romulus, and much more.

Jarvis Lawson is a Milwaukee based photographer who has worked with dozens of organizations over the years including Alaska Airlines, Jordan Brand, Stella Artois, My Helsinki, Under Armour, Vice, and Visit California.

Everything started for Jarvis when he came across a skyline photo online that was shot with an iPhone. An android user at the time, Jarvis said up his money and knew he had to get an iPhone for himself. He immediately poured himself into photography driving to Chicago every day he could to take photos of abandoned buildings, skylines, gritty alleyways, puddles, and anything else that caught his eye. People quickly took notice and he began to build a following on Instagram using the hashtag #iphoneonly . He was even a featured photographer that Instagram itself interviewed and promoted.

After about a year of shooting exclusively with his iPhone his mom bought him his first DLSR. From there both his skills and his career truly blossomed. His first big break came when he was hired by Visit California to hit the road and capture the beauty of Northern California's parks and mountains. Not long after that he found himself shooting photos for My Helsinki to help promote tourism to Finland.

Jarvis has travelled the world shooting photos for many large organizations, but he has also done extensive work in the the product photography and portrait space for massively successful brands like Under Armour, Jordan Brand, Stella Artois, and more.

In this episode we discuss Jarvis's photography journey from his humble iPhone beginnings to capturing cycling trip in the Czech Republic, and so much more. He also opens up about how he built his career and gives a ton of valuable insight and advice that any photographer, or creative in general, could benefit from.

Xavier Abdullahi is a rock climbing influencer and coach based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Xavier discovered his love for climbing in college and never looked back. In fact he dropped out of college so that he could spend all his time climbing. He never planned to be an influencer either, but when he saw a small brand offering chalk bags in exchange for posting content he made his @daddyxclimbs account on Instagram and within a few months was 15,000+ followers. He never pretended to be an elite climber, instead he made uplifting and relatable content to bring smiles to the faces of whoever was watching. It wasn't long before other brands started taking notice. With the help of a couple of sponsors, and his local climbing gym offering him a part time job, he was able to start climbing nearly every day.

In the episode we discuss his rough childhood in Minneapolis, his mom marrying someone she met on Yahoo chat, moving out of the city, discovering his love for the outdoors, experiencing racism, being awarded scholarships, getting hired by The North Face to create content, being awarded over $5,000 worth of ice climbing gear, becoming friends with the legendary Mt. Everest climber Dom Mullins, flying to Washington to create content for Zig Zag Climbing, building real relationships online, dealing with burnout, best climbing movies, dream places to go climbing, and so much more.