What does it take to balance martial arts, water polo, and surfing in a place as complex as Santa Cruz? Join us as we sit down with Nathan, the main instructor at Claudio Franza's gym, to uncover his compelling journey from training behind his house at age four to becoming a pivotal figure in the jiu-jitsu community. Discover how early influences from his father and inspirational UFC VHS tapes shaped his passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, creating a path that would steer him away from the turbulent waters of his hometown.

Growing up in Santa Cruz was anything but peaceful. In our conversation, Nathan opens up about navigating the gritty realities of his upbringing, from middle school days at Green Acres and Shoreline to the cultural shifts brought on by changing economic tides. Listen as we explore personal stories of friendships, losses, and the power of community in guiding young lives away from potentially destructive paths. The supportive environment within the jiu-jitsu community provided Nathan and many others a positive outlet, emphasizing how essential it is to find your tribe amidst adversity.

The journey doesn’t stop there. We delve into the intense world of water polo under legendary coach Marcelo Adas, and the spiritual and communal aspects of surfing at Pleasure Point. Nathan shares his thoughts on identity, aging, and the mental adjustments required to stay competitive. Through heartfelt reflections and personal anecdotes, we highlight the importance of self-awareness, personal growth, and the joy of belonging to a supportive team. Tune in for an inspiring episode that underscores the transformative power of jiu-jitsu and the enduring bonds formed through shared passions.

Can consciousness itself be the original sin? Join us for a profound discussion as we unravel this and other complex theological questions with our special guest, Colin Brown. We delve into the nuanced interpretation of sin and evil in Christianity, from their original languages to their evolution through translations. Reflecting on Paul's words in Romans and the story of Adam and Eve, we challenge traditional views of original sin and consider what these pivotal biblical moments truly signify.

Throughout our conversation, we navigate the delicate balance of spirituality and cultural misappropriation, distinguishing genuine engagement from superficial piety. By exploring the historical context of sin, illustrated through the story of Cain and Abel, we examine how emotions and attitudes surrounding sin contribute to feelings of shame and the need for atonement. Our personal stories highlight the profound impact of different upbringings on perceptions of shame and discipline, emphasizing the role of supportive communities in fostering personal growth and understanding.

We also delve into the importance of intent and consciousness in evaluating actions, offering a fresh perspective on innocence, naivety, and sacrifice. By reinterpreting Jesus' crucifixion and challenging the necessity of sacrificial atonement, we encourage a reevaluation of traditional teachings. Finally, we address the influence of Christian nationalism and the idea of embracing peace through suffering, sharing our journeys and insights in hopes of fostering a more nuanced understanding of these deep theological concepts.

What if you’ve been missing out on a simple practice that could fill the spiritual gap in your life? Join us at the Pointside Beach Shack in Santa Cruz as I reconnect with Mick to unpack the transformative power of Transcendental Meditation (TM). We share how the eclectic vibe of Santa Cruz has shaped our lives, influencing both the surf and business communities, and how TM has provided a spiritual oasis since my departure from the church seven years ago. Mick opens up about his early experiences with TM, the cultural hurdles he faced, and the profound spiritual benefits that have enriched his everyday life.

Our conversation weaves through our personal backgrounds, religious perspectives, and diverse spiritual practices. One of the most compelling parts of our dialogue is the story of how an intentional decision by one of our parents to keep religion out of family life allowed us to explore faith unbiasedly. We also dissect the often misunderstood nuances between Christianity and Eastern philosophies, drawing parallels between the dynamic nature of the ocean and the fluidity of life itself. We even share a heartwarming tale about reconnecting with a spouse, diving deep into the unique energy of Santa Cruz and its role as a repository for emotional burdens.

In our journey through transcendence, we compare the inward journey of TM with the spiritual teachings of Christianity. We challenge conventional notions about transcendence and highlight the importance of settling the mind for deeper awareness. We also touch on how meditation can help us embrace death, sin, acceptance, and living in the present moment with generosity and mindfulness. Tune in as we explore the interconnectedness of spirituality, consciousness, and science, and offer insights into how TM and spiritual practices can lead to a more fulfilling life.

What if the secret to a more fulfilling life lies in the waves of the ocean and the silence of the mind? Join us as we take a nostalgic journey back to 1988 with my longtime friend Mick Yankus, a key figure in the surf industry and a pioneer at O'Neill's OFX office. We reminisce about our evening surf sessions and how Mick's creative genius helped shape the iconic surf logos and wetsuits that defined an era. Relive the excitement of late 1980s surf culture, from the revolutionary use of Apple computers in ad campaigns to the influence of legends like Kelly Slater and Brad Gerlach.

Discover the transformative power of Transcendental Meditation (TM) and how it helped Mick and me navigate the challenges of life. Mick shares his unique blend of yoga, meditation, and physical fitness, which served as an inspiring model for integrating spiritual values into everyday life. We explore how TM allows us to transcend mental activity and experience pure consciousness, bringing about a state of peaceful bliss. Our conversation touches on the intersections between ancient religious traditions and modern scientific understandings of consciousness, highlighting our shared pursuit of happiness and creativity.

From surfing the waves of Santa Cruz to finding inner peace through TM, this episode offers a heartfelt reunion filled with personal stories, spiritual insights, and creative reflections. We recount memorable experiences, including Mick’s journey to becoming a TM teacher and his impactful work with the Silicon Valley TM Center and Stanford Hospital. Whether you're a surfer, a meditator, or someone seeking inspiration, tune in to celebrate friendship, spirituality, and the timeless essence of surfing with us.

Ever wondered how family dynamics shape our personal growth? This episode of the Unpacked and Naked Podcast promises an enlightening journey with Todd Kent, who celebrates his 18th wedding anniversary and shares the highs and lows of parenting Frances and Hazel. We reflect on generational shifts and community evolutions, exploring how the tumultuous '60s and '70s in Capitola and Pleasure Point shaped the resilient individuals we are today. From the challenges of potty training to the unique approaches of millennial parents, our conversation uncovers valuable lessons in patience, adaptation, and love.

Have you ever considered the unexpected twists life can take? Todd recounts his transition from an athlete to a coach, navigating the competitive world of college sports and the economic ups and downs of Santa Cruz. Listen to intriguing stories, like how a plumber seized the 2009 financial crisis to turn his fortunes around. We also dive into Todd's journey from Seattle to Olympia, highlighting pivotal moments and the cultural richness of the grunge and punk rock scenes that influenced his path. These tales emphasize resilience, adaptability, and the importance of community bonds in personal growth.

What's the real impact of coaching on personal and familial relationships? This episode offers profound insights into the emotional and professional challenges faced by coaches, particularly at the Division III level. Todd shares his philosophy on pushing athletes to develop resilience, reflecting on how his coaching style evolved over time. We delve into the misconceptions about UC Santa Cruz, revealing it as a breeding ground for tech industry success stories. Through personal anecdotes on empathy, loss, and self-reflection, we explore how the interconnectedness of family, career, and personal development shapes our identities and relationships. Join us for a heartfelt exploration of the complexities of life and growth.

Ever wondered if being hyper-focused on your goals might be mistaken for narcissism? Join me, Michael Howard, as I unpack this sensitive topic on the latest episode of the "Unpacked and Naked" podcast. I take a deep dive into my personal experiences over the last 30 episodes, sharing the internal struggles and realizations I've had about balancing a principled life with the unintended consequences of intense focus. This episode is a raw and candid reflection on how we might inadvertently harm those around us when we're too engrossed in our own passions.

Tune in for an introspective journey where I discuss the vital importance of shutting up and truly listening to oneself. Drawing on insights from my conversation with Todd, I explore the value of being kinder and more open to differing perspectives. This episode is an honest look at how our fervor can sometimes overshadow the needs and feelings of others, and the steps I'm taking to ensure a more balanced and inclusive approach in both my personal and professional life.

Ever wondered what it takes to sustain a marriage for 36 years and raise adult children with grace? My good friend Jen Seldon joins us on the Unpacked and Naked Podcast to share her unique insights and personal experiences. We get real about the rollercoaster ride of long-term relationships, from the intricate dance of communication to the bittersweet emotions of family milestones. Jen's candid reflections are complemented by my own journey into self-awareness and the transformative power of mirror therapy.

Travel back with us to the days of childhood ear infections and the life-defining moments at Vacation Bible School (VBS). We uncover how these shared experiences of managing health challenges and volunteering at VBS shaped our perspectives on community, service, and personal growth. The episode highlights the dedication and fulfillment derived from organizing such impactful events, and how those early mornings and late evenings at VBS left an indelible mark on our lives.

But it doesn’t stop there. We navigate the complexities of maintaining liberal Christian values in a predominantly conservative environment, discussing the importance of positive contributions over negative distractions. From the impact of the purity movement to fostering open communication in parenting, this episode examines the delicate balance of setting boundaries while allowing children the freedom to make their own choices. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion on faith, community, and the transformative journey of reassessing religious identities—a conversation filled with honesty, growth, and the continuous effort to improve both personally and professionally.

Have you ever wondered how a client-professional relationship can evolve into a deeply meaningful friendship over two decades? Join me as I sit down with my dear friend Michael Painter, reflecting on our 24-year journey from business meetings to heartfelt conversations. We reminisce about Michael's fascinating life in Santa Cruz, his ministry background, and his experiences coaching baseball. Together, we unearth the cultural intricacies of Santa Cruz, from the local surfing culture to its social dynamics, and highlight the mutual respect and camaraderie that has defined our relationship.

Discover the transformative power of creating healing spaces through conversation. In this episode, I share how prioritizing genuine appreciation and healing actions can significantly deepen relationships and create positive ripples in our lives. Listen to personal anecdotes from both of us—like a minor conflict at work and the dynamics between my two sons, Zachariah and Elijah—that add richness to our discussion. We also explore the inception of the podcast, the unique intimacy of audio-only conversations, and how these discussions have been a tool for processing personal experiences.

Venture with us into the intricate journey from evangelicalism to a broader spiritual understanding, significantly influenced by Richard Rohr's inclusive theology. We dive into the nuances between empathy and sympathy, the challenges of leadership, and the vital importance of self-compassion and curiosity. Through reflections on various religious traditions, personal anecdotes, and insights from psychology, we underscore the significance of genuine connection, boundaries, and compassion in navigating life's challenges. Join us for a heartfelt exploration of friendship, spirituality, and personal growth.