No Fixed Agenda Podcast
No Fixed Agenda Podcast is co-hosted by Jeff Stoner and Omar Hernandez. This podcast Explores the lighter side of business, society/culture and life in general. No agenda needed, No B.S. Just honest, fun conversations. We are just enjoying the journey on the way to the destination.
#95 Random Thoughts: Shaved Legs, Hyrox, and Pilates
Join the hosts for a candid post-race debrief following HYROX Phoenix, where they achieved an 8-minute PR despite leg issues and challenging conditions. This episode covers their race experience, training insights, hydration challenges in dry climates, and future competition plans. The conversation takes entertaining detours into grooming habits, potential Pilates adventures, and the evolution of HYROX as a fitness phenomenon.
#94 Don't Be a Dumbass (a Coaching Philosophy for the Mountain Athlete w/ Alyssa Clark)
Ultra runner and coach Alyssa Clark joins us to discuss her journey from Vermont cross-country skier to San Diego-based ultra runner, her wild 95-day marathon streak during COVID, and how she's helping build Everyday Ultra into a coaching powerhouse. We dive deep into coaching philosophy, the challenges of balancing elite athletics with coaching responsibilities, and why human connection will always beat AI-generated training plans.
Alyssa Clark
Ultra Runner & Running CoachChief Creative & Community Officer at Everyday UltraBased in San Diego, CA#93 Phone A Friend: Broken Trailers, Weed Breaks, and Sketchy Massages (A Trip to SF w/ Kimo Burliegh)
Join us for a hilarious conversation "Phone a Friend" convo with Kimo Burleigh. He calls in from Maui where he's living the aloha spirit (shirtless, naturally). From infrared sauna fires to one of the worst road trips in history, this episode is packed with stories that prove sometimes the best adventures are the ones that go completely sideways.
Kimo - Boulder gym veteran turned Maui resident personal trainer, Hyrox competitor, and survivor of the legendary San Francisco road trip disaster of 2004.
#92 Leading from the Front (Community First w/ Chip Dykes)
An in-depth conversation with Chip Dykes, Vice President of Community and Military Relations at Front Wave Credit Union. Chip shares his journey from Marine Corps veteran to community leader, the story behind the Front Wave Arena naming rights deal, and how a credit union founded by 8 Marines in 1952 became a cornerstone of the Oceanside community.
Re-Release: Sushi, Sobriety, and Self Care (w/ Cesar Vallin)
In this re-released episode from Aug 30, 2024, we sit done with Cesar Vallin, podcaster and restaurateur in San Diego. He share his story of addiction to sobriety, bankruptcy to restaurant success, and how his mantra "Ready for All" has helped him with his mental health, his family life, and his business.
Episode Highlights
The Journey from Bankruptcy to Success
Cesar shares his incredible story of going from $80,000 in debt and $1,800 in first-month sales to owning 30% of a Michelin Guide restaurantHow he survived by making repeated trips to the grocery store just to keep...#91 It's Like Spaghetti on the Wall
Welcome to a special New Year’s episode! The hosts kick off 2026 with gratitude for their listeners, reflecting on the past year and the journey of the podcast. They discuss the challenges of the holiday season, unexpected changes in plans (including a race cancellation due to weather), and the importance of adapting to life’s curveballs.
Key Topics:
Thanking the community and reflecting on the growth of the podcastNavigating holiday fatigue and the unpredictability of New Year plansThe tough decision to cancel and reschedule a race, and the logistics behind itLessons learned from handling setbacks and the...#90 Passing the Ball: The Power of Sports Legacy in San Diego (w/ Sean Bowers)
Welcome to another episode of No Fix Agenda! In this special year-end episode, we sit down with Sean Bowers, President of the San Diego Clippers and San Diego Sockers, and Executive Vice President of Front Wave Arena. Sean shares his journey from growing up in San Diego’s soccer community to playing professionally in the MLS and eventually leading two of the city’s top sports organizations.
In this episode:
Sean’s background: From local soccer player to MLS pro and executiveThe evolution of the San Diego Sockers and their impact on the communityBuilding and managing the ne...#89 Tis the Season for Tamales, Die Hard, and Ugly Sweaters
his episode dives into the hosts’ personal and cultural experiences with the holiday season. Through candid stories and humor, they explore the joys and challenges of family traditions, the pressures of gift-giving, and the evolution of celebrations as families grow. The conversation highlights the importance of togetherness, the quirks of holiday routines, and the value of making the season your own—whether that means elaborate festivities or a quiet day at the beach. Listeners are encouraged to share their own traditions and join the community conversation.
Connect with us: Share your holiday traditions and stories on our soci...
#88 Enough is Enough: Self-Care and Setting Boundaries
In this candid and inspiring episode of No Fix Agenda, Omar and Jeff dive deep into the personal journey of deciding when "enough is enough." Omar opens up about the turning point that led him to prioritize his health, fitness, and self-care after facing honest feedback from his family and a challenging race experience in Chicago.
Key Topics Covered:
The moment of realization: Family comments and the impact on self-perceptionThe Chicago race as a wake-up call and catalyst for changeThe importance of accountability and sharing the journey on social mediaNavigating negative comments, body image struggles, and...#87 Phone a Friend: Tales from Boulder (w/ Jennifer Egbert)
Welcome to another episode of the No Fixed Agenda podcast, presented by Bubs Naturals and hosted by Jeff Stoner. In this special “Phone a Friend” segment, Jeff reconnects with longtime friend Jen Egbert for a candid, funny, and nostalgic conversation.
Episode Highlights:
Jeff and Jen reminisce about their 25+ year friendship, from meeting at Rally Sport gym in Boulder to wild stories from their younger days.Reflections on the evolution of friendships, moving from college to post-college life, and the importance of lasting connections.Hilarious and honest tales from Boulder, including memorable characters, gym stories, and the infa...#86 When Looks Deceive: The Truth About Body Dysmorphia (w/ Dr Aleksandra Drecun)
In this episode, the hosts are joined by Dr. Aleksandra Drecun (Alex), a psychologist specializing in anxiety disorders, body dysmorphia, and related conditions. The conversation explores the impact of social media on body image, the rise of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), and the challenges people face in a world of shifting beauty standards.
Key Topics Discussed:
What is Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)?The difference between BDD and OCDHow social media and influencer culture contribute to body image issuesThe prevalence of BDD (estimated 50 million Americans affected)Gender differences and the rise of BDD in menThe role of...#85 The Weight of Change (Inspiration Thru Powerlifting w/ Mike D)
In this episode, Mike D shares his journey from a challenging childhood and addiction to becoming a coach, community leader, and founder of the Heavy Breathing Foundation. He discusses the power of strength training, mentorship, and breaking cycles of trauma for underserved youth and adults.
Key Topics & Highlights:
Mike D’s background and personal storyThe impact of language: “at-risk” vs. “underserved”How strength training and powerlifting aided his recoveryFounding the Heavy Breathing Foundation: mission and metaphorSupporting youth and adults through gym access and mentorshipCollaborations with schools and community organizationsFundraising, events, and sustainabilityBreaking cycles of trauma and the import...#84 Random Thoughts: "Work to Live" or "Live to Work" (Finding Balance)
In this episode, we dive deep into the ongoing debate of "work to live" versus "live to work." We hosts share personal stories about late-night car troubles, the challenges of parenting, and the exhaustion that comes with balancing business and family life.
Key topics discussed include:
The evolution of work-life balance across generations, from Baby Boomers to Gen Z and Alpha.How the COVID-19 pandemic shifted mindsets about work, entrepreneurship, and remote work.The realities of starting and running a business—why it’s often harder than expected.Personal transitions from a "live to work" mentality to a...#83 Leading from the Back: Empowering Women of Color (w/ Priscilla Rojas)
In this episode, we welcome Priscilla Rojas, co-founder of Santa Mujeres Running Club, to share her inspiring journey in the world of trail running and community building. The conversation dives into:
The unique dynamic and roles among the podcast hosts, and how their backgrounds shape the show.Priscilla’s recent experience running the UTMB 20K in Chihuahua, Mexico, including the cultural significance, the challenges, and the emotional connection to her heritage.The origins and growth of Santa Mujeres Running Club, a community focused on inclusivity, representation, and empowering women of color in running.Overcoming cultural barriers and stereotypes in...#82 Narcissists in the Wild: Traits, Types, and Tactics (w/ Brenda Stephens)
In this episode, the hosts are joined by Brenda Stevens for an in-depth discussion on narcissism, its various types, and how it manifests in relationships and society. Building on a previous conversation, the group explores the nuances of narcissistic personality disorder, the spectrum of narcissistic traits, and their impact on individuals and communities.
Key Topics Discussed:
Pop culture references (Friends, Seinfeld) as an entry point.Recap of previous discussion on narcissism in family dynamics.Types of narcissists: covert (introverted), overt, malignant, cerebral, somatic.Deep dive into covert narcissists and their manipulative tactics.Nature vs. nurture: Is...#81 Random Thoughts: You Win the Lottery, What Would You Do?
Welcome back to No Fixed Agenda, presented by Bubs Naturals! In this episode, the hosts dive into the wild world of lotteries—what would you do if you won big? The conversation kicks off with a fascinating story about a mathematician who managed to win the lottery 14 times across three countries, using nothing but math, strategy, and a network of investors. The hosts break down how he pulled it off, the odds, and the logistics—especially in a pre-internet world.
From there, the discussion turns personal: What would you do if you won the lottery? The hosts shar...
#80 "Phone a Friend" (Nick Newlin- Tequila Cowboy, BBQ Foodie)
In this lively episode of "No Fixed Agenda," we kick off our new segment, "Phone a Friend," with a special guest: Nick from Austin, Texas. The conversation covers everything from Austin’s legendary music festivals and Formula 1, to the city’s unbeatable food scene, wild parties, and the story of a friendship that started in Maui and keeps on rolling.
Guest:
Nick (Austin, TX) – Longtime friend, music lover, foodie, and unofficial Austin ambassador.Key Topics & Highlights:
Austin City Limits & Festival Life: Behind-the-scenes stories from Austin’s biggest music events, including tales of headliners, logistics, and the...#79 Random Thoughts: "Enough is Enough!” (But Is It, though?)
Welcome to another episode of No Fixed Agenda! This week, we dive deep into a topic that hits home for entrepreneurs, coaches, and anyone grinding in the service industry: burnout.
In this episode:
We open up about our own experiences with burnout—how it sneaks up, what it feels like, and how it’s changed as we’ve shifted roles from coach to entrepreneur.The conversation covers the unique pressures of being a coach, business owner, and leader, and how wearing multiple hats can make it hard to truly disconnect.We talk about the importance of settin...#78 Growing Up Stoner: Family, Work, and What Matters Most (w/ Dave Stoner)
In this heartfelt and entertaining episode, Jeff welcomes his father, Dave Stoner, for an in-depth conversation about family, work ethic, and the lessons learned across generations. The discussion is filled with laughter, candid stories, and meaningful reflections.
Episode Highlights:
Family Vacation Stories: The episode opens with lighthearted banter about travel, especially trips to Mexico, and the quirks of vacationing with family and friends.Introducing Dave Stoner: Jeff’s father, Dave, joins the show, sharing his experiences living in the Midwest, his career in agricultural processing, and his roots in both California and Illinois.Growing Up in th...#77 Say No to Naste (The Scent of Success w/ Andy Voggenthaler)
In this episode, we sit down with Andy Voggenthaler—serial entrepreneur, endurance athlete, and co-founder of No Naste, the eco-friendly brand tackling the world’s stinkiest problems. Andy shares his personal health journey, from surprising calcium scores and statin struggles to the importance of sleep and self-advocacy in medicine.
We dive into Andy’s background in endurance sports, the creation of Race Guards (a medical support service for races), and the pivotal moment that inspired the launch of No Naste. Hear how a stinky yoga class, product development know-how, and a passion for clean living led to a line...
#76 Wheelie Big Change (A Bike Store Startup Story w/ Caroline Paulson)
The episode is an interview with Caroline Paulson, covering her journey from teaching to opening a bike shop.The conversation includes her background, the founding of Sycamore Community School, the transition to business ownership, and the launch of her Sole bike shop in Encinitas.Key topics: career change, education, starting a school during COVID, community impact, e-bike safety, and the vision for a community-focused bike shop.The discussion also covers e-bike laws, youth safety, helmet standards, and the importance of community education.Caroline shares details about her shop’s location, upcoming grand opening, and her commitment to making biking safe an...
Re-Release: Addiction is a Super Power
This special re-release features a powerful conversation about addiction, recovery, and personal transformation. guest Stephen Kuzmanic discusses his journey through addiction, the challenges of recovery, and how the traits that fuel addiction can be harnessed as superpowers for positive change.
Key Topics Covered
Personal stories of addiction, including struggles with opiates, fentanyl, and meth.The role of fear, family, and support systems in seeking recovery.Unique rehab experiences, including the Treehouse program and its team-based, fitness-focused approach.The importance of fitness and healthy routines in maintaining sobriety.How addiction can be reframed as a superpower when...Looking Back, Moving Forward: Season 3 Recap
Hosts reflect on the highlights and lessons learned from Season 3.Special mention of the episode with Brenda Stevens on narcissism and family trauma, with plans to bring her back for a deeper dive.Discussion of the "Bliss" episode, focusing on personal growth and sibling relationships.Praise for the Dr. Carp episode, which influenced the hosts’ approach to running and training.Emphasis on the importance of voicing opinions and having authentic, sometimes controversial, conversations.Reflections on the evolution of the podcast, improved production, and guest selection.Teasers for future episodes, including a special with a host’s father and expanded video cont...
#75 Hydrate or Die Laughing (A Bubs Naturals Story w/ Sean Lake)
In this season closer, hosts Jeff and Omar welcome Sean Lake, co-founder of Bubs Naturals, for a wide-ranging conversation about entrepreneurship, fitness, nutrition, and the story behind Bubs Naturals. The episode is packed with humor, personal stories, and actionable insights for athletes, business owners, and anyone interested in health and wellness.
Key Topics:
The origins and evolution of the No Fixed Agenda podcast, including its handoff from Sean to Jeff and Omar.Sean’s journey from marketing consultant to co-founding Bubs Naturals, inspired by his late best friend Glen “Bub” Doherty, a Navy SEAL.The importance of pro...#74 All Mine: A Slice of Life and Pizza (w/ Roxanna Pavel)
In this episode, Roxanne Pavel shares her inspiring journey from growing up in communist Romania to becoming a successful restaurant owner in Oceanside, California. She discusses her early life, experiences in the hospitality industry, and the challenges she faced while opening her restaurant, 'All Mine,' during the COVID-19 pandemic. Roxanne also delves into her passion for teaching and mentoring at Cal State San Marcos, emphasizing the importance of hard work and resilience. Listeners will be inspired by her entrepreneurial spirit, dedication, and unique approach to hiring and managing her team.
#73 Can You Outrun a Donut (w/ Dr. Jason Karp)
This episode features a deep-dive conversation with Dr. Jason Karp, a prolific author and expert in exercise physiology, running, and coaching. The discussion covers Dr. Karp's background, his journey into coaching and writing, and his unique experiences coaching in Kenya. The hosts and Dr. Karp explore the science of athletic performance, the cultural and genetic factors behind Kenyan distance running dominance, and the interplay between exercise and nutrition.
Key Topics & Highlights
Lego Anecdote & Generational Hobbies: The episode opens with a lighthearted discussion about Legos, generational interests, and tactile hobbies in a digital age.Introducing Dr. Jason...#72 Random Thoughts on the Denim Drama: ( Are the Genes right or wrong?)
We dive into the "genes or jeans' debate surrounding a controversial American Eagle advertisement featuring actress Sydney Sweeney, analyzing the political and social media backlash it triggered. The conversation explores broader societal issues, including racial tensions, the influence of social media, and the polarized political landscape. The hosts emphasize the importance of maintaining a balanced perspective and encourage listeners to focus on personal well-being over external controversies.
#71 A BLISS-ful Return: Period Pills, Fitness Fails, and Sidekick Tales (Bliss Loveall Returns)
This episode is a wild ride with Bliss—fitness entrepreneur, accidental period pill influencer, and the only person who can make a sidekick out of a Starbucks order. The crew dives into everything from the perils of filming gym content to the drama of firing friends, all while keeping it real (and hilarious).
What’s Inside:
Bliss’s triumphant return and why her first interview is “banned” from the archivesThe “period pill” saga: what it is, why it’s controversial, and how Bliss accidentally started a comment warHawaii: great for vacations, terrible for finding carne asadaThe infamous Starbuc...#70 Random Thoughts: Omar's Therapy Session (Anyone have any Vicodin?)
In this candid, therapy-session-style episode, the Jeff and Omar dive into the chaos and lessons of business expansion, home renovation, and the art of letting go. With humor and honesty, they share personal stories about living through construction, managing stress, and the importance of community support.
Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share with your friends. Stay tuned for more random thoughts and therapy sessions on “Stereo Mix.”
#69 A "Stroke" of Luck It Wasn't (A Survival Story w/ Corynne Smith)
In this episode, Corynne Smith, owner and creator of Affirmations of Wellness, shares her personal and professional journey in the wellness industry. As a yoga instructor and massage therapist, Corynne has built a community-focused wellness center in Oceanside offering a diverse range of holistic services. Corynne opens up about the recent event of suffering a stroke at the age of 29, discussing her recovery process and the lessons she's learned about managing stress and living a balanced life. The conversation also delves into the importance of self-care, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the principles of yoga that go beyond physical...
#68 Random Thoughts: Intimacy with an AI Avatar
In this episode, the hosts delve into the fascinating yet controversial topic of AI companionship. They discuss their personal thoughts and reactions to the idea of AI-generated relationships, how such technologies are becoming more common, and the implications for real-life social and romantic interactions. With 30 million users on platforms like Replica, the conversation covers statistics, potential benefits, and ethical concerns. The hosts also consider unique scenarios where AI relationships might be beneficial, such as for elderly individuals or in therapeutic settings, while expressing apprehension about the lack of regulation and the potential for societal harm. The episode concludes with...
#67 "TRIP" Advisor: An Ayahuasca Odessey (w/ Richard Barrett)
In this episode, Richard Barrett shares his transformative journey from running an IT company to becoming an expert in psychedelics, focusing on the therapeutic benefits of ayahuasca. Richard delves into the significant impacts of Ayahuasca and other psychedelics on mental health, particularly for veterans. He describes the preparation, experience, and post-ceremony effects of an ayahuasca ritual, emphasizing the importance of mental readiness and intention. Richard also discusses his personal experiences and the profound conversations with his late mother during an ayahuasca session. The episode highlights the broader applications of psychedelics for therapy, their legal challenges, and Richard’s efforts to...
#66 Porting Around: Steel Toe Meets "Ship" Show (w/ Stehpen Kuzmanic)
This podcast episode delves into the world of shipping and logistics, highlighting an engaging conversation with a longshoreman mechanic. The discussion explores the evolution and impact of automation at the Port of Los Angeles, detailing the transition from manual labor to sophisticated automated systems. The guest shares personal experiences on the job, from technological advancements in crane operations and autonomous vehicles to the challenges faced by union workers amidst increasing automation. The episode provides an insightful look into how global shipping processes are managed and the significant changes driven by automation, shedding light on the day-to-day realities of those...
#65 Random Thoughts: Hyrox Worlds and the Great Turf Fiasco
In this episode of the No Fixed Agenda Podcast, the hosts delve into the recent HYROX World Championships, discussing both the positive highlights and the controversial moments that have sparked debate. They highlight the vibrant atmosphere, international attendance, and the well-executed live coverage that drew thousands of viewers. However, they also address the controversies including the athlete shoving incident and challenges with the new turf that affected sled performance. The conversation also touches on the drawbacks of athletes transitioning from open to pro categories and various technological hitches that occurred during the competition. The episode wraps up on a...
#64 Inside the Narcissist's World: Traits, Trauma, and Transformation (w/ Brenda Stephens)
In this episode, the hosts engage in a profound conversation with Brenda Stephens, a therapist specializing in helping survivors of narcissistic abuse. They explore the complexities of narcissism, how it is often misunderstood and misused in today's discourse, and the specific challenges faced by those entangled with narcissists. Brenda shares her personal journey dealing with narcissistic relationships and offers insights into recognizing narcissistic traits, the concept of gray rocking, and the importance of setting boundaries. The conversation also delves into the dynamics within families, especially between narcissistic parents and their children, and the long-term effects on their well-being and...
#63 Random Thoughts: Travel, Tech, and Trail Running (w/ special guest Hector Rodriguez)
In this episode has a little bit of everything... Travel, Run Camps, AI, and the direction of run/social clubs. Our guest, Hector Rodriguez, discusses his recent travels and upcoming trips for both personal adventures and his work with Amazon. Conversation touches on various international cities he's visited, including London and Prague. The hosts shift the discussion to explore the intriguing logistics of Amazon operations, focusing on the challenges of handling damaged goods. Further, they delve into the shift in generational behavior towards fitness and social activities, highlighting unique trends like run clubs and events blending physical activities with...
#62 Doatnuts and Dreams (and 2 "Sharks") w/ Kimy Aguirre
In this episode, Kimmy, the owner of Doatnut, shares her inspiring entrepreneurial journey from making healthy donuts in her kitchen to featuring on Shark Tank. She talks about the challenges she faced, including nearly burning her house down and almost closing her business. She details the pivotal moments such as manifesting her dream store, her Shark Tank experience, and how her life changed after receiving a deal from 2 of the Sharks. Kimmy also talks about the operational aspects of running her business, from shipping orders across the country to maintaining quality control. The conversation dives deep into her vision...
#61 Random Thoughts: Overcoming Limitations
In this episode of the No Fixed Agenda Podcast, the hosts delve into the topic of limitations, exploring both physical and mental constraints. They discuss personal experiences with recognizing and overcoming their own limitations, including physical disabilities, addiction recovery, and mental health challenges. The conversation highlights the importance of distinguishing between genuine limitations and self-imposed boundaries, advocating for a mindset that seeks solutions and workarounds. The episode aims to inspire listeners to face their limitations head-on and find ways to grow and thrive despite them.
#60 Riding Smart: Educating the E-Bike Generation (w/ Grace Guerra)
In this episode of No Fixed Agenda, hosts discuss the pressing issue of e-bike safety among youth, particularly in Southern California's coastal areas. They highlight the rise in accidents and fatalities involving young e-bike riders and the lack of effective safety training. The conversation features Grace Guerra, co-founder of Chain Reaction, a nonprofit dedicated to educating kids aged 12-17 on safe e-bike practices. The episode delves into the origins and goals of Chain Reaction, the challenges of getting parents and kids to take safety seriously, and potential collaborations with schools and e-bike manufacturers to make safety education mandatory. Grace...
Road Snacks: Colorado Road Trip
Welcome to No Fixed Agena's Road Trip Series... "ROAD SNACKS"
This new series follows Jeff and/or Omar on our travel adventures, giving the listener a little insight into what goes on during our travels, the conversations, the people we meet, etc... These episodes will be aired periodically on Tuesdays.
So sit back and get ready to enjoy some ROAD SNACKS with us.
This adventure takes Jeff to Denver, CO.
