Michael Verde

In this live event, world renowned "reader", Michael Verde uses one of the greatest pieces of American literature to change the way we read, relate to the written word, and expand what is possible for an artist.  Somewhere between brain candy and a soul massage, this will inspire you and open your eyes to see what, perhaps, has been there all along.

In this live event, world renowned "reader", Michael Verde uses one of the greatest pieces of American literature to change the way we read, relate to the written word, and expand what is possible for an artist.  Somewhere between brain candy and a soul massage, this will inspire you and open your eyes to see what, perhaps, has been there all along.

Michael Verde: Expanding DEATH OF A SALESMAN Live!

Dina Shihabi

In this episode, Benjamin sits down with actress, and star of the new Amazon Original series, "Jack Ryan", Dina Shihabi to discuss diversity, equality, and the miracle of being alive. A unique voice in difficult times, Dina offers insight into what it means to know yourself, love those around you, and bask in the miracle of life.  

In this episode, Benjamin sits down with actress, and star of the new Amazon Original series, "Jack Ryan", Dina Shihabi to discuss diversity, equality, and the miracle of being alive. A unique voice in difficult times, Dina offers insight into what it means to know yourself, love those around you, and bask in the miracle of life.

Seeing Miracles with Dina Shihabi | Episode 214

Ana Lorena Sanchez

In this episode, Benjamin sits down with actress and cultural influencer, Ana Lorena Sanchez to discuss what life, love, and dating looks like in 2018.  The conversation goes to some unexpected places as Ana Lorena opens up about some personal things, and a surprise guest jumps in to reveal something previously unknown about the host.  You do not want to miss this podcast!

In this episode, Benjamin sits down with actress and cultural influencer, Ana Lorena Sanchez to discuss what life, love, and dating looks like in 2018.  The conversation goes to some unexpected places as Ana Lorena opens up about some personal things, and a surprise guest jumps in to reveal something previously unknown about the host.  You do not want to miss this podcast!

On Life, Love, and Dating in 2018 with Ana Lorena Sanchez | Episode 213

In 2012, host, Benjamin Mathes created Urban Confessional: a Free Listening Movement.  Since then, the movement has grown to over 80 countries with thousands of volunteers holding signs that say, "Free Listening".  In this episode, Benjamin uncovers the secrets to deep listening.  Often referred to as a "soft skill", this podcast will show you why listening is actually a "survival skill". Take notes and listen carefully, there's a lot of info in this episode!

In 2012, host, Benjamin Mathes created Urban Confessional: a Free Listening Movement.  Since then, the movement has grown to over 80 countries with thousands of volunteers holding signs that say, "Free Listening".  In this episode, Benjamin uncovers the secrets to deep listening.  Often referred to as a "soft skill", this podcast will show you why listening is actually a "survival skill". Take notes and listen carefully, there's a lot of info in this episode!

How to Listen...No, Really, Here's How | Episode 212

In this episode, one of last season most popular guest, Michael Verde, returns to dive deep into the profound effects myths and metaphors have on our lives, literature, and cultural understanding.  A self-proclaimed "Reader", Michael is capable of revealing hidden truths embedded into the written word. Pulling from Biblical scripture and classic American Literature, he will open the aperture of what is possible when we allow ourselves to see more, understand more, and read in a new way.

In this episode, one of last season most popular guest, Michael Verde, returns to dive deep into the profound effects myths and metaphors have on our lives, literature, and cultural understanding.  A self-proclaimed "Reader", Michael is capable of revealing hidden truths embedded into the written word. Pulling from Biblical scripture and classic American Literature, he will open the aperture of what is possible when we allow ourselves to see more, understand more, and read in a new way.

The Power of Myth and Metaphor with Michael Verde | Episode 211

In this episode, Benjamin sits down with self described "White, Lutheran, Rapper" and cultural innovator, Agape Dave. Join them as they wade through the muddy waters of cultural appropriation, racism, hiphop, Jesus, and how social anxiety may be cause of modern segregation. In this episode, Agape Dave will give you a 5 step process that will show you how to grow in your understanding of different cultures, discuss the nuances of Whiteness, and shed light on the very things that will bring us all together if we ever develop the courage to let it.

In this episode, Benjamin sits down with self described "White, Lutheran, Rapper" and cultural innovator, Agape Dave. Join them as they wade through the muddy waters of cultural appropriation, racism, hiphop, Jesus, and how social anxiety may be cause of modern segregation. In this episode, Agape Dave will give you a 5 step process that will show you how to grow in your understanding of different cultures, discuss the nuances of Whiteness, and shed light on the very things that will bring us all together if we ever develop the courage to let it.

Rap, Religion, and Racism with Agape Dave | Episode 210

In this episode, Benjamin sits down with Kansas State University professor, Dr. Katie Heinrich to discuss her studies on one of the worlds leading workout programs, CrossFit.  She offers a unique perspective one the high intensity workouts and dives into nutrition, sports psychology, and why Crossfit isn't exactly what you think it is.  Whether you work out or not, you'll want to know the information she has to share!

In this episode, Benjamin sits down with Kansas State University professor, Dr. Katie Heinrich to discuss her studies on one of the worlds leading workout programs, CrossFit.  She offers a unique perspective one the high intensity workouts and dives into nutrition, sports psychology, and why Crossfit isn't exactly what you think it is.  Whether you work out or not, you'll want to know the information she has to share!

Getting Fit with Dr. Crossfit | Episode 209

Cody Kearsley

Join Benjamin as he chats with actor and theatre artist, Cody Kearsley.  Currently starring as Moose Mason on Netflix's Riverdale, Cody opens up about his sobriety, his questions about life and spirituality, and what it means to be an artist.  In this podcast, we are reminded of the power of vulnerability, the universal message behind personal truths, and the difficult nature of experiencing the wholeness of life.

Join Benjamin as he chats with actor and theatre artist, Cody Kearsley.  Currently starring as Moose Mason on Netflix's Riverdale, Cody opens up about his sobriety, his questions about life and spirituality, and what it means to be an artist.  In this podcast, we are reminded of the power of vulnerability, the universal message behind personal truths, and the difficult nature of experiencing the wholeness of life.

The Return is in the Turn with Cody Kearsley | 208

Jose Lopez

After suffering a near death experience in 2018, actor and stunt-man, Jose Lopez sits down with Benjamin to discuss what it really means to be alive.  His insights on life, death, and leaving a legacy will inspire you and make you think.  In this episode, Jose shares the depths of his personal and physical struggle, the miracles of science that kept him alive, and the importance of the community that lifted him up.  You do not want to miss this interview.

After suffering a near death experience in 2018, actor and stunt-man, Jose Lopez sits down with Benjamin to discuss what it really means to be alive.  His insights on life, death, and leaving a legacy will inspire you and make you think.  In this episode, Jose shares the depths of his personal and physical struggle, the miracles of science that kept him alive, and the importance of the community that lifted him up.  You do not want to miss this interview.

It Is Not Over Yet with Jose Lopez | Episode 207

DANIEL SHARMAN

In this episode, Benjamin sits down with actor Daniel Sharman to discuss life, giving, and what it means to be an artist in a modern time.  From Teen Wolf, Fear the Walking Dead, The Immortals, The Originals, and the upcoming Netflix series, Medici, Daniel is an actor know across the world for his talent, his warmth, and his deep thinking…oh, and his over 4 million followers on social media.  In this conversation, Daniel gets personal and reveals things he’s never spoken of in his many public interviews.  Do not miss this engaging, provocative, and at times, comical interview with Daniel Sharman.

In this episode, Benjamin sits down with actor Daniel Sharman to discuss life, giving, and what it means to be an artist in a modern time.  From Teen Wolf, Fear the Walking Dead, The Immortals, The Originals, and the upcoming Netflix series, Medici, Daniel is an actor know across the world for his talent, his warmth, and his deep thinking…oh, and his over 4 million followers on social media.  In this conversation, Daniel gets personal and reveals things he’s never spoken of in his many public interviews.  Do not miss this engaging, provocative, and at times, comical interview with Daniel Sharman.

The Artful Way with Daniel Sharman | Episode 206

Open and honest, this weekly podcast is aimed at amplifying stories of what it means to be human and genuinely heard. It features host Benjamin Mathes, Urban Confessional Founder and speaker, who is joined by new guests each episode to explore issues and current events intersecting with the topic of listening and being heard.

Every Saturday morning I get ready for work that is spent with kids.  Sometimes, it’s the last thing I want to do.  But I can’t be modeling cranky-sour-puss-behavior and expect the youths to be little angels now can I?  To get myself out of this funk that periodically creeps in, I listen to The Heard podcast.  It helps me get present, which is probably the most important thing when working with kids.

Great way to get out of a funk

So many important topics that need to be discussed- glad to have stumbled upon this podcast! Added bonus: got to hear a few familiar voices from high school!! Great work Ben!

Subscribe now!

Heard Podcast

Ivan Orlic

Improv Comedy, Metaphysics, and film production. Nothing is off limits in this episode as Benjamin chats with Hollywood producer, scientist, and published author, Ivan Orlic. The episodes begins with an invaluable lesson on how to approach famous people on the streets, and quickly moves into personal revelations about life, love and the art of making movies.

Improv Comedy, Metaphysics, and film production. Nothing is off limits in this episode as Benjamin chats with Hollywood producer, scientist, and published author, Ivan Orlic. The episodes begins with an invaluable lesson on how to approach famous people on the streets, and quickly moves into personal revelations about life, love and the art of making movies.

Harnessing Hollywood with Ivan Orlic | Episode 205

Burt Jones

In this episode, Benjamin chats with 3 time Republican Georgia State Senator, Burt Jones.  From the University of Georgia football team to the state government, Burt opens up about what it takes to win an election, run a business, and raise a family in today’s world.  He also reveals exactly what it’s like to disagree with other members of the state Senate, and how we can all work together to make the world a better place.  Oh—and he’s met President Trump many times.  Wanna know what that was like…?  Listen to the end.  I think you’ll be surprised.

In this episode, Benjamin chats with 3 time Republican Georgia State Senator, Burt Jones.  From the University of Georgia football team to the state government, Burt opens up about what it takes to win an election, run a business, and raise a family in today’s world.  He also reveals exactly what it’s like to disagree with other members of the state Senate, and how we can all work together to make the world a better place.  Oh—and he’s met President Trump many times.  Wanna know what that was like…?  Listen to the end.  I think you’ll be surprised.

From Team Captain, to State Senator: Leading at all levels with Burt Jones | Episode 204

Nick Carse

In this episode, Benjamin chats with King of Pops founder Nick Carse about life, risks, and how to create unexpected moments of happiness in the lives of people around you. In a classic deep dive, Nick talks about how he went from analyzing risk to taking risks: hint, it has something to do with the famous Harry Hand Case.  He also discusses how he and the team at King of Pops have created a Farm to Pop model by extending what it means to create small batch pops are made with love in the South. If you’re stuck at your job, but have a dream of changing the world, you need to listen to this interview.  Maybe you’ll learn the difference between a “decision” and a “choice”.

In this episode, Benjamin chats with King of Pops founder Nick Carse about life, risks, and how to create unexpected moments of happiness in the lives of people around you. In a classic deep dive, Nick talks about how he went from analyzing risk to taking risks: hint, it has something to do with the famous Harry Hand Case.  He also discusses how he and the team at King of Pops have created a Farm to Pop model by extending what it means to create small batch pops are made with love in the South. If you’re stuck at your job, but have a dream of changing the world, you need to listen to this interview.  Maybe you’ll learn the difference between a “decision” and a “choice”.

Creating Smiles with the King of Pops with Nick Carse | Episode 203

Catherine Fitzmaurice

In this rare interview, Benjamin discusses the meaning of life with one of the world’s leading theatre and voice practitioners, Catherine Fitzmaurice. Together they discuss the dynamic nature of life, the beauty of death, and everything that happens in between. Catherine goes on to reveal that she is not afraid of something that tends to haunt us all, the importance of rethinking traditions, and how to make the world your peer. Throughout, there are laughs, deep breaths, and lots of truth. You do not have to be a theatre-goer to relate to her experience and the wisdom she’s derived from it.

In this rare interview, Benjamin discusses the meaning of life with one of the world’s leading theatre and voice practitioners, Catherine Fitzmaurice. Together they discuss the dynamic nature of life, the beauty of death, and everything that happens in between. Catherine goes on to reveal that she is not afraid of something that tends to haunt us all, the importance of rethinking traditions, and how to make the world your peer. Throughout, there are laughs, deep breaths, and lots of truth. You do not have to be a theatre-goer to relate to her experience and the wisdom she’s derived from it.

Life Is Alive With Catherine Fitzmaurice | Episode 202

Jeff Fink

Jeff Fink has struggled with depression since he was a teenager. His battle for emotional health and functionality took him through endless medications, therapy, and finally hospitalization. However, it wasn’t until he met Earl that his life finally began to turn around. Earl has been a life long friend and an incredible support as Jeff has pushed forward. He’s also a dog. Today Ben and Jeff sit down to discuss mental health, and the incredible impact that animals can have on our well being.

Jeff Fink has struggled with depression since he was a teenager. His battle for emotional health and functionality took him through endless medications, therapy, and finally hospitalization. However, it wasn’t until he met Earl that his life finally began to turn around. Earl has been a life long friend and an incredible support as Jeff has pushed forward. He’s also a dog. Today Ben and Jeff sit down to discuss mental health, and the incredible impact that animals can have on our well being.

Mind's Best Friend with Jeff Fink | Episode 136

We’ve all been in at least one awkward situation. Most of us think that those situations are relegated to bad small talk or a slight miscommunication between two people. However, sometimes awkward situations are more related to a deeper discomfort with an idea or concept. In his work with the elderly Michael Verde helps people confront awkwardness. He assists those experiencing dementia in creating meaningful connections with real people. The interactions can be weird and tough to stomach, but as Benjamin and Michael discuss today are absolutely necessary as our loved ones get older.

We’ve all been in at least one awkward situation. Most of us think that those situations are relegated to bad small talk or a slight miscommunication between two people. However, sometimes awkward situations are more related to a deeper discomfort with an idea or concept. In his work with the elderly Michael Verde helps people confront awkwardness. He assists those experiencing dementia in creating meaningful connections with real people. The interactions can be weird and tough to stomach, but as Benjamin and Michael discuss today are absolutely necessary as our loved ones get older.

Embracing the Awkward with Michael Verde | Episode 134

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, the time to reflect on gratitude is here. But that’s where a lot of people stop. Today Ben discusses the cycle of gratitude and how if your gratitude does not turn into giving, you’re stuck in the condition of receiving from others, while not giving back to those around you.

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, the time to reflect on gratitude is here. But that’s where a lot of people stop. Today Ben discusses the cycle of gratitude and how if your gratitude does not turn into giving, you’re stuck in the condition of receiving from others, while not giving back to those around you.

The Cycle of Gratitude | Episode 133

Adelyn Price

With age comes wisdom, and if you’re lucky, grace. Though if you’re too caught up in the pace of the everyday, it’s easy to forget that we’re only where we are today because we’ve stood on the shoulders of past giants to achieve new heights in the present. Adelyn Price has been able to see the progression of the last century. Join Benjamin and Adelyn as they discuss progress, the past, and where things are taking us tomorrow.

With age comes wisdom, and if you’re lucky, grace. Though if you’re too caught up in the pace of the everyday, it’s easy to forget that we’re only where we are today because we’ve stood on the shoulders of past giants to achieve new heights in the present. Adelyn Price has been able to see the progression of the last century. Join Benjamin and Adelyn as they discuss progress, the past, and where things are taking us tomorrow.

Listening to the Giants with Adelyn Price | Episode 132

Brad Davidson

It’s no revelation that people are very concerned with appearances. There’s no industry that capitalizes on this concern more than the fitness industry. Brad Davidson is a fitness instructor who knows what it’s like to chase the preconceived notions of physical perfection, but he also knows what blindly chasing those ideals can cost. He’s lost parts of his hair due to stress, battled a failing thyroid, and at one point had the testosterone of an ill 85-year-old man. After a near death experience, Brad learned to stop living for the “ideal” and to start living for himself. Join Benjamin and Brad as they discuss, physical appearance, the determination of training, and what it’s like to lie your way onto an Olympic Bobsled team.

It’s no revelation that people are very concerned with appearances. There’s no industry that capitalizes on this concern more than the fitness industry. Brad Davidson is a fitness instructor who knows what it’s like to chase the preconceived notions of physical perfection, but he also knows what blindly chasing those ideals can cost. He’s lost parts of his hair due to stress, battled a failing thyroid, and at one point had the testosterone of an ill 85-year-old man. After a near death experience, Brad learned to stop living for the “ideal” and to start living for himself. Join Benjamin and Brad as they discuss, physical appearance, the determination of training, and what it’s like to lie your way onto an Olympic Bobsled team.

The Core of Life with Brad Davidson | Episode 131

Earl Henslin

Dr. Earl Henslin has written 10 books and put thousands of hours into his practice of improving the mental and emotional well-being of his patients, but he’s perfectly happy to attest that most of the ideas he implements in therapy aren’t what he learned in Med-School decades ago, they’re from our constantly evolving understanding of the brain. Today Benjamin sits down with Dr. Henslin to discuss the brain, and how it’s much more than just where our passing thoughts come from. Our dreams are tied to our brain, and accomplishing them can be dependent on how we take care of it.

Dr. Earl Henslin has written 10 books and put thousands of hours into his practice of improving the mental and emotional well-being of his patients, but he’s perfectly happy to attest that most of the ideas he implements in therapy aren’t what he learned in Med-School decades ago, they’re from our constantly evolving understanding of the brain. Today Benjamin sits down with Dr. Henslin to discuss the brain, and how it’s much more than just where our passing thoughts come from. Our dreams are tied to our brain, and accomplishing them can be dependent on how we take care of it.

This is Your Brain on Purpose with Dr. Earl Henslin | Episode 129

Edwin Rutsch

What is it that separates empathy and action? For some, it’s easier to remain focused on ourselves than it is to clue in to what’s going on with the folks around us. For others, we’re worried that by empathizing with others, we might somehow weaken our own ideals and perspectives. Edwin Rutsch has made it his mission in life to help teach what empathy is, and more importantly how to embrace it. Because it’s when we realize that we don’t have to abandon who we are to be with someone else, that something truly powerful can happen.

What is it that separates empathy and action? For some, it’s easier to remain focused on ourselves than it is to clue in to what’s going on with the folks around us. For others, we’re worried that by empathizing with others, we might somehow weaken our own ideals and perspectives. Edwin Rutsch has made it his mission in life to help teach what empathy is, and more importantly how to embrace it. Because it’s when we realize that we don’t have to abandon who we are to be with someone else, that something truly powerful can happen.

Flexing your Empathy with Edwin Rutsch | Episode 128

Harrison Scott Key

If scars are stories, Harrison Scott Key has more than enough to fill the books that he writes. Growing up in the south, he’s taken his share of licks and has come through each harrowing event with another funny story to tell. He contemplates life while washing kitchenware and feels that our uncertainty is what unities us. When Benjamin sits down to chat with Harrison, the two dive into humor, family, and many, many anecdotes. This is Harrison Scott Key.

If scars are stories, Harrison Scott Key has more than enough to fill the books that he writes. Growing up in the south, he’s taken his share of licks and has come through each harrowing event with another funny story to tell. He contemplates life while washing kitchenware and feels that our uncertainty is what unities us. When Benjamin sits down to chat with Harrison, the two dive into humor, family, and many, many anecdotes. This is Harrison Scott Key.

A Life UnWritten with Harrison Scott Key | Episode 127

Benjamin Mathes

For a city that was built on a foundation of distraction, in the aftermath of evil, Las Vegas is awake. The locals waited in line for eight hours to give blood. The city has started funds and efforts to house the families of the fallen who seek to come into the city to see the ones they've lost. When Benjamin went free listening in the streets of Vegas, he talked with many people struggling to make sense of how they feel. Today we all pause to reflect on what it means to listen in times of anguish.

For a city that was built on a foundation of distraction, in the aftermath of evil, Las Vegas is awake. The locals waited in line for eight hours to give blood. The city has started funds and efforts to house the families of the fallen who seek to come into the city to see the ones they've lost. When Benjamin went free listening in the streets of Vegas, he talked with many people struggling to make sense of how they feel. Today we all pause to reflect on what it means to listen in times of anguish.

Thoughts on Vegas with Benjamin Mathes | Episode 126

Kendra Kinnison

We only know how strong we are when being strong is our only choice. Kendra Kinnison has survived Hurricanes. Her most recent brush with tumultuous storms happened when Hurricane Harvey ripped through southern Texas. However, she finds her calling in helping leaders navigate personal hurricanes that can arise when we choose to make ourselves vulnerable to the responsibility of leading. When she sits down with Benjamin, the two dive into the process of how we can take the mantle of leadership regardless of position or occupation.

We only know how strong we are when being strong is our only choice. Kendra Kinnison has survived Hurricanes. Her most recent brush with tumultuous storms happened when Hurricane Harvey ripped through southern Texas. However, she finds her calling in helping leaders navigate personal hurricanes that can arise when we choose to make ourselves vulnerable to the responsibility of leading. When she sits down with Benjamin, the two dive into the process of how we can take the mantle of leadership regardless of position or occupation.

Leadership In the Eye of the Hurricane with Kendra Kinnison | Episode 125

Matt Sprouse

They say to stick to what you know, and it seems like we do the same thing when it comes to what entertains us. We want the next big idea, while at the same time, we have a soft spot for the stories and formulas we’ve come to know and love. It’s hypocritical, but a reality of life. No one knows more about reality and television than Matt Sprouse. He’s a reality TV producer behind shows like Welcome to Myrtle Manor and Sons of Guns. In this episode he sits down with Benjamin to talk about what it’s like trying to capture life in front of the camera, while still shaping what’s unscripted into a story.

They say to stick to what you know, and it seems like we do the same thing when it comes to what entertains us. We want the next big idea, while at the same time, we have a soft spot for the stories and formulas we’ve come to know and love. It’s hypocritical, but a reality of life. No one knows more about reality and television than Matt Sprouse. He’s a reality TV producer behind shows like Welcome to Myrtle Manor and Sons of Guns. In this episode he sits down with Benjamin to talk about what it’s like trying to capture life in front of the camera, while still shaping what’s unscripted into a story.

The Reality of Reality TV with Matt Sprouse | Episode 124

The best podcast episodes on parenting. Interviewing experts and talking through common issues surrounding parenting. This topic is filled with important lessons and insights for anyone listening. Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!

OwlTail

Best Parenting Podcasts

The best podcast episodes about true crime. For any thrill seeking podcast listeners who just can't get enough of the captivating stories of murderers and criminals. This topic has all the best episodes from many different true crime podcasts.  Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!