“A Pivot to Purpose” with former NBA basketball player Mike Gminski

Champagne Problems

#Fitness #Society #Mental Health #Alcoholabuse #Alcoholuse #Charlotte #Queencitypodcastnetwork #Recovery #Treatment #EVRYBDY Studios #Alcoholism #Drink

32:12

DaQuane Cherry was once the kid who wore a hoodie to hide skin flare-ups in school. Now he’s an artist and advocate helping others feel seen. He reflects on his psoriasis journey, the power of small joys, and why loving yourself first isn’t a cliché—it’s essential. Plus, a deep dive into the history of La Roche-Posay’s legendary spring. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

about a year ago 59:29

MP3•Episode home

Mike Gminski, a former American professional basketball player, is renowned for his impressive career in the NBA and now, his contributions to advocacy around addiction recovery. Making a name for himself at Duke University, Gminski was a standout center, earning multiple accolades including All-ACC and All-American honors. His college success paved the way for a distinguished NBA career, where he played for teams like the New Jersey Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, and the Charlotte Hornets. Beyond the basketball court, Gminski has also built a remarkable 30-year career in broadcasting, where his insights and experience have made him a respected voice in sports media. Alongside this successful broadcasting career, he faced and overcame significant struggles with addiction. His journey to recovery has been a source of inspiration and motivation for his advocacy work in the field of addiction recovery. Gminski is passionately involved in helping others who face similar challenges, using his personal experience and public platform to raise awareness about addiction and the possibilities of recovery. He actively participates in various programs and initiatives that support those battling addiction, often sharing his story to encourage and guide others towards a path of sobriety and health. He’s currently the Director of Mentorship at Sana House and sits on the Board of Directors at Emerald School of Excellence, NC’s first recovery high school.

Thank you to our sponsor: Bonbuz

116 episodes

“A Pivot to Purpose” with former NBA basketball player Mike Gminski

Champagne Problems

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Thank you to our sponsor: Bonbuz

116 episodes

#Fitness #Society #Mental Health #Alcoholabuse #Alcoholuse #Charlotte #Queencitypodcastnetwork #Recovery #Treatment #EVRYBDY Studios #Alcoholism #Drink

All episodes

1
Coach Cy Unfiltered: Systemic Barriers, Legacy, and the Price of Leadership 1:29:52

10 weeks ago1:29:52

1:29:52

In Part 2 of this riveting Champagne Problems conversation, host Robbie Shaw continues his deep-dive with legendary coach Cy Alexander. This episode goes beyond the basketball court to explore the harsh realities of systemic racism in college athletics, the nuances of identity and code-switching, and how Coach Cy navigated decades of adversity with discipline, faith, and a drive to lead. From his early encounters with racism at Duke’s basketball camp to being excluded in high-profile coaching spaces, Coach Cy shares personal stories of marginalization—and perseverance. He also opens up about profound personal losses, including the deaths of his wife and mother, his own battle with cancer, and his daughter’s breast cancer diagnosis. This is more than a conversation about sports. It’s a masterclass in leadership, survival, and what it means to leave a legacy that transcends wins and losses.…

1
Grit, Grace, and Game: Cy Alexander’s HBCU Legacy 1:33:57

10 weeks ago1:33:57

1:33:57

In this unforgettable episode of Champagne Problems , host Robbie Shaw sits down with legendary HBCU basketball coach Cy Alexander for a powerful conversation on perseverance, purpose, and impact. From his early days growing up in Winston-Salem with educator parents, to coaching historic runs at South Carolina State and Tennessee State, Coach Cy opens up about the mentors who shaped him, the racism he endured, and the hard lessons he learned on and off the court. Coach Cy shares never-before-heard stories—from receiving life-changing support from Rev. Jesse Jackson to playing beach volleyball with Michael Jordan—and offers a behind-the-scenes look at his upcoming documentary. With personal reflections on loss, illness, and triumph, this is more than a sports story—it’s a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and faith. Tune in to hear how one man’s love for the game became a legacy of impact far beyond the scoreboard.…

1
Blind Momentum: A Sister’s Legacy and the Strength to Carry On 1:01:40

11 weeks ago1:01:40

1:01:40

In part two of this deeply emotional and inspiring Champagne Problems conversation, host Robbie Shaw reunites with author, advocate, and endurance athlete Laura King Edwards to continue exploring her remarkable story. From battling depression in college to losing her sister Taylor to Batten disease, Laura reflects on the moments that shaped her resilience—and the ones that nearly broke her. This episode dives into the convergence of life and loss as Laura gives birth to her son just days before saying goodbye to her sister. She shares the origin of her book Run to the Light , her bold blindfolded half-marathon challenges (including an attempt at a world record), and how Taylor’s life—and death—taught her to truly live. With powerful insight on grief, purpose, and choosing joy despite pain, Laura offers listeners a vivid reminder: we can all do hard things—and grow stronger in the process.…

1
Love, Loss & Legacy: Laura’s Journey Through Grief and Grit 41:30

11 weeks ago41:30

41:30

In this profoundly moving episode of Champagne Problems , host Robbie Shaw sits down with Laura King Edwards—author, rare disease advocate, and endurance athlete—for a deeply personal conversation about resilience, purpose, and the power of love. Laura shares her extraordinary journey of navigating life after her sister Taylor’s diagnosis with Batten disease, a rare and fatal neurodegenerative disorder. From founding a nonprofit and running blindfolded half-marathons to becoming a mother just days before losing her sister, Laura offers a raw, inspiring look at grief, healing, and the unexpected ways purpose can unfold. Tune in for a heartfelt dialogue about family, identity, legacy, and what it truly means to live a meaningful life—even in the face of unimaginable loss.…

1
“Notes of Clarity” w/ Music Journalist Grayson Currin 59:42

17 weeks ago59:42

59:42

In this intimate conversation, Robbie traveled to Boulder to sit down with acclaimed music journalist Grayson Currin for a profound exploration that moves far beyond album reviews and artist interviews. One of America's most respected voices in music, Currin opens up about his personal journey including putting down the drink—revealing how this shift transformed not only his relationship with music but with himself and his lovely wife. Together, they navigate the delicate intersections of artistic passion and personal growth, discussing how the timeline of our lives often mirror our deepest struggles and greatest triumphs. From the vulnerability of getting sober to finding renewed purpose in both writing and listening, this conversation touches on the universal themes that connect us all: love, loss, growth, and the constant search for purpose and meaning. Whether you're a music enthusiast, sober, not sober, or simply a fellow traveler on life's fascinating road, this episode offers honest reflections on what it means to hear the world with fresh ears and face each day with newfound clarity. Thanks Grayson!!…

1
Healing Through Raw Food: WiBi Ashley’s Journey to Wellness 37:01

19 weeks ago37:01

37:01

In this episode of Champagne Problems, Robbie Shaw sits down with WiBi Ashley, a plant-based chef and wellness advocate, to explore the power of food as medicine. Weebie shares her transformative healing journey after a life-altering car accident, her experiences working as Woody Harrelson's personal chef, and her mission to reconnect people with the healing properties of whole, natural foods. From overcoming trauma to building community through nutrition, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone on a path to holistic health. Check out her website: https://www.artandremedies.com/meet-wibi.html…

1
"From Food & Bev to Tech Startup” w/ Ben Ellsworth, Founder of Gigpro 30:24

21 weeks ago30:24

30:24

In this episode of Champagne Problems , host Robbie Shaw sits down with Ben Ellsworth at the Food & Wine Classic in Charleston to discuss his journey from the depths of addiction in the hospitality industry to a life of sobriety and founder of tech startup Gigpro . Ben shares raw insights about the culture of excess in restaurants, the wake-up call that changed his path, the positive shifting trends in the food and beverage world, and the technology he created to help fill shifts across the hospitality spectrum. Thank you for all you do, Ben!…

1
“Beyond the Glass: How Food & Wine Magazine Advocates For Mental Health” w/ Hunter Lewis 14:27

23 weeks ago14:27

14:27

Robbie Shaw sits down with Hunter Lewis, Editor in Chief of Food & Wine Magazine, to explore the publication's growing commitment to the alcohol-free beverage movement. Lewis shares how Food & Wine is evolving to better represent the full spectrum of hospitality experiences, including thoughtful coverage of non-alcoholic options that don't compromise on flavor or sophistication. The conversation delves into the magazine's initiatives to support hospitality professionals battling addiction and other mental health challenges—a particularly pressing issue in an industry historically known for its demanding environment. Lewis discusses how Food & Wine is using its platform to reduce stigma, highlight resources, and champion a more balanced approach to wellbeing within restaurant culture.…

1
“Be a Rebel, Quit Drinking” w/ Creative Sobriety Founder, Kristen Bear 58:17

25 weeks ago58:17

58:17

Whether navigating life's daily challenges or pursuing creative passions, the journey to sobriety can open unexpected doors to personal growth and authentic living. In this episode, Robbie visits Nashville to sit down with Kristen Bear, founder of Creative Sobriety, who shares her transformative path from a life intertwined with alcohol to one filled with purpose and clarity. Through candid conversation, Kristen opens up about her personal experiences and the profound insights she gained along her journey. She explores how removing alcohol from her life didn't just lead to better health—it unleashed a wellspring of creativity and self-discovery that transformed her approach to both personal and professional challenges. As the founder of Creative Sobriety, Kristen has built a community that challenges the traditional narratives around drinking culture and offers a fresh perspective on alcohol-free living. Our discussion delves into practical strategies for those considering sobriety, while examining how this lifestyle choice can enhance rather than limit life's possibilities. Connect with Kristen and explore more about Creative Sobriety through Instagram @CreativeSobriety or visit her website at www.creativesobriety.co to discover resources, community support, and inspiration for your own journey toward an alcohol-free lifestyle.…

1
“Caviar and Straight Jackets” w/ Comedian and Actress Courtney Michelle 1:07:19

27 weeks ago1:07:19

1:07:19

Courtney Michelle writes, produces, and performs a style of comedy that is not only unavoidably relatable, it is so impeccably timed and executed that it feels like you’re doing a real-life skit with her. Courtney’s many characters are so outrageous that you don’t know anyone like her, but you’re 100% sure they exist somewhere…and you likely hate them. And I mean that in the most positively comedic way possible. Courtney is a delight on and off the camera and was a pleasure to discuss life with. Follow her now because you’ll be seeing her in the spotlight more and more. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itscourtneymichelle TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@itscourtneymichelle YouTube: https://youtube.com/@itscourtneymichelle…

1
“Break on Through to the Other Side" w/ Endurance and Adventure Athlete, Matt Dawson 54:22

29 weeks ago54:22

54:22

Matt Dawson "Dawson" is a highly successful financial professional turned multi-record-holding endurance and adventure athlete, sought-after public speaker, lifestyle and performance coach, and Founder of Dawson's Peak Foundation . Beginning project Seven for Soldiers (set 7 world records) in May 2021, Dawson set multiple records by rapidly completing a previously unheard-of number of global expeditions (in a single year), including summiting the Seven Summits (highest peaks on each continent), skiing to the South Pole, traversing the Mojave Desert solo without help, and rowing across the Atlantic. Although he was on track to additionally ski to the North Pole and fly a single-engine plane around the world during this same year, his plans were delayed due to the global pandemic and Russia/Ukraine events. Dawson is also an avid traveler (35+ countries), a licensed motorcycle racer, a US Navy qualified "Expert" with pistol and rifle, an outdoor enthusiast, and an IFR licensed fixed wing airplane pilot. Tune in to listen to Robbie and Dawson discuss the journey to this level of self-challenge, mental health, surrender, and perseverance. Dawson's book, Strength in Surrender: What One Man's Expeditions Through the World's Harshest Environments Can Teach You About Facing Your Fears and Living with Purpose , just released and it is a MUST READ.…

1
"Robbie in the Hot Seat" A Holiday Special Interview w/ Journalist, Joe Bruno 52:12

31 weeks ago52:12

52:12

Joe Bruno is Charlotte, NC's very own beloved journalist. In this episode, Joe rightfully takes the interviewer seat and flips the script on Robbie. Three years ago, the Champagne Problems host told his very honest and very vulnerable story that included addiction, rock bottom, and redemption. Tune in to hear Joe dig in to Robbie's journey over the three years since... including a separation, a breakthrough, a podcast production startup , and an inevitable amount of maturation. Thank you Joe Bruno for taking this on!…

1
"Expanding & Enhancing NA Culture" w/ Sipland Owner Molly Fienning 39:43

33 weeks ago39:43

39:43

Molly Fienning is a seasoned entrepreneur and business leader who has successfully launched and scaled multiple consumer brands. She is the CEO and co-founder of Sipland , a company expanding the evolution of alcohol-free spirits and culture. Prior to Sipland, she co-founded Babiators , a multi-million dollar children's sunglasses company that revolutionized the kids' eyewear market. She later served as CEO of Red Clay Hot Sauce , where she helped grow the artisanal hot sauce brand into a nationally recognized name. Based in Charleston, South Carolina, Fienning is known for her expertise in building direct-to-consumer brands and creating compelling brand narratives. She is also an investor and advisor to early-stage companies, particularly those led by women and underrepresented founders.…

1
“Leading a Horse to Water” w/ Human Performance Specialist, PJ Nestler 1:04:59

35 weeks ago1:04:59

1:04:59

PJ Nestler is a performance specialist, educator, consultant and speaker in the areas of performance breathing, human performance, combat athlete preparation, mindset, and recovery. PJ has worked with professional athletes from the UFC, NFL, and NHL, US Military Special Ops, and executives around the world. Join Robbie and PJ as they discuss the path that led him to become one of the most talented, passionate, and meticulous performance system and framework builders in the industry. PJ states that his ultimate quest is to figure out “how to get people to do what they know is good for them.” Thank you for all you do, brother PJ. www.FitLab.com www.XPTLife.com https://youtube.com/@coachpjnestler https://www.instagram.com/coachpjnestler…

1
"The Power Within” w/ female empowerment entrepreneur, speaker, and Jiu-Jitzu instructor, Cesalina Gracie 1:03:15

37 weeks ago1:03:15