Best Pretend To Imagine Podcasts (2025)

1
Doing vs. Being: When Growth Becomes Another Grind 56:09

2d ago56:09

56:09

In this episode of The Circle, Eric and Tim explore how personal growth and spiritual practice can quietly slip into another form of hustle. Why do we sometimes treat healing like a to-do list? What happens when our breathwork, yoga, or journaling stops being supportive and starts becoming performative? Together, they unpack perfectionism, self-tru…

1
Amy McCulloch on her new novel, 'Runner 13' 16:47

4d ago16:47

16:47

When writing thrillers, author Amy McCulloch likes to write about what she knows, whether it's climbing one of the world's tallest mountains, exploring Antartica, or the adventure that inspired her latest book, running an ultramarathon across the Sahara Desert. McCulloch recently spoke with KMUW's Beth Golay about the thriller, "Runner 13."…

1
The Father Wound Part 2 w/ Amir Khalighi: Judgment, the Lone Wolf Trap, and Re-Fathering Yourself 55:10

9d ago55:10

55:10

In Part 2 of our conversation with Amir Khalighi, we move from uncovering the father wound to exploring what it takes to heal it. Why are so many men with this wound quick to judge—others, themselves, and especially other men? How does hypervigilance become a way of life? And what does it take to re-father ourselves and trust again? We talk about t…

1
Healing the Father Wound Part 1: Reclaiming Power, Presence, and Trust with Amir Khalighi 1:02:46

16d ago1:02:46

1:02:46

In this special two part episode of The Circle, we’re joined by our mentor and teacher Amir Khalighi—founder of Embodied Masculine—for a deep conversation about the father wound, masculine lineage, and the path to healing. Together, we explore how emotional or physical absence from a father figure can shape a man’s identity, disrupt his relationshi…

1
Building Trust: How Consistency, Embodiment, and Surrender Shape Self-Trust and Relationships 1:01:53

23d ago1:01:53

1:01:53

In this episode of The Circle Podcast, Eric and Tim go all in on the many dimensions of trust—from how we cultivate trust within ourselves to how we navigate the messy terrain of trusting others, institutions, and even the universe. With personal stories, embodiment reflections, and real-world examples from breathwork, therapy, and men’s work, they…

1
Megan Hunter on her new novel, 'Days of Light' 20:42

25d ago20:42

20:42

Beth Golay recently spoke with Megan Hunter about the challenge of capturing one day per decade, and how Ivy finds meaning in her life in "Days of Light."By Beth Golay

1
Circles of Care: Queer Intimacy, Radical Fairies & Healing Through the AIDS Epidemic 52:00

1M ago52:00

52:00

In this episode of The Circle Podcast, we’re joined by Jonathan Scott—also known as Wild Blue Yonder and Esther the Village Mermaid—for a deeply moving conversation about queer resilience, the Radical Fairy movement, and the healing power of gathering in circle. A longtime community organizer and founder of the Victory Programs, Jonathan shares his…

1
Maria Reva on her novel, 'Endling' 30:59

1M ago30:59

30:59

Beth Golay recently spoke with Maria Reva about her characters and how she incorporates her own life into "Endling."By Beth Golay

1
Taking It All In: The Art of Receiving Without Shame or Obligation 43:37

1M ago43:37

43:37

Why is it so hard to simply take it in—a compliment, a gift, a moment of care, or even a deep breath? In this episode of The Circle Podcast, Eric and Tim unpack the cultural, emotional, and personal blocks that make receiving feel vulnerable, awkward, or even shameful. Whether it’s feeling unworthy of love, fearing hidden strings, or being conditio…

1
Tash Aw on his new novel, 'The South' 21:12

1M ago21:12

21:12

Beth Golay recently spoke with author Tash Aw about "The South," which follows a family one summer as they move to an inherited farm in southern Malaysia.By Beth Golay

1
The Shaman’s Mind: Jonathan Hammond on Queer Wisdom, Nature’s Intelligence, and the Power to Co-Create Reality 1:00:52

1M ago1:00:52

1:00:52

In this episode of The Circle, Eric and Tim sit down with Jonathan Hammond—author, spiritual teacher, and trained shamanic practitioner—to explore how earth-based spirituality and Hawaiian wisdom can help us reclaim authenticity, heal limiting beliefs, and reimagine a more connected world. From the ancient role of queer people in shamanic cultures …

1
Remembering to Pretend: Why Imagination Might Be the Most Important Grown-Up Thing You’ve Forgotten 51:38

2M ago51:38

51:38

In this episode of The Circle Podcast, Eric and Tim explore the transformative power of imagination—not as a childhood relic, but as a radical tool for adult healing, creative expression, emotional intelligence, and personal growth. From visualizing future goals to softening interpersonal conflicts, they unpack how reconnecting with our imagination…

1
Mary Morris on her new novel, 'The Red House' 26:47

2M ago26:47

26:47

Beth Golay recently spoke with Mary Morris about her Italian travels that led to the book "The Red House," her own connections with the characters, and more.By Beth Golay

1
Rope and Radical Communication: Mr. R on Trust, Consent, and Kink 1:03:35

2M ago1:03:35

1:03:35

Curious about kink—but unsure where to start? In this episode of The Circle Podcast, Eric and Tim are joined by Mr. R, a rope rigger, dominant, and BDSM educator, to explore how consent, communication, and trust form the bedrock of safe and empowering experiences in BDSM and beyond. Through real stories, thoughtful analogies, and insights from kink…

1
Amanda Hess on her book, 'Second Life: Having a Child in the Digital Age' 22:53

2M ago22:53

22:53

Beth Golay recently spoke with Amanda Hess, who works as a critic-at-large for the New York Times, where she writes about culture and the internet about her book, "Second Life: Having a Child in the Digital Age."By Beth Golay

1
Unpacking the Prickle: Irritation, Annoyance, and the Needs Beneath the Noise 56:25

2M ago56:25

56:25

Ever found yourself snapping in traffic or spiraling over something small? In this episode of The Circle Podcast, Eric and Tim unpack the deeper truth behind irritation and annoyance—and how these emotions often reveal unmet needs, unconscious beliefs, and moments where we fall out of integrity with ourselves. With personal stories, embodied insigh…

1
Annie Hartnett on her new novel, 'The Road to Tender Hearts' 34:37

2M ago34:37

34:37

Beth Golay recently spoke with Annie Hartnett about the inspiration behind "The Road to Tender Hearts" and her unique voice that blends the true to life issues of loss and pain with a hint of magical realism.By Beth Golay

1
Seeing Ourselves in Others: Gregory Ganymedes on The Power of Projection in Dreams and Life 53:52

2M ago53:52

53:52

Projection is a fundamental yet often unnoticed aspect of human experience. We see in others what we cannot yet recognize in ourselves, whether in moments of conflict, admiration, or even within the mysterious landscapes of our dreams. In this episode of The Circle, Eric Bomyea and Timothy Bish welcome dream worker Gregory Ganymedes to go all in on…

1
Jo Harkin on her historical novel, 'The Pretender' 18:22

2M ago18:22

18:22

When Jo Harkin was in the middle of writing a science fiction novel, she took a procrastination break to read a book about kings and queens. That’s when she came across the name Lambert Simnel in footnotes of British history, a known pretender to Henry VII’s throne. In her novel, "The Pretender," Harkin elevates Simnel from the footnotes to an imag…

1
Harnessing the Fire Within: Transforming Anger into Empowerment 56:48

3M ago56:48

56:48

Anger is a powerful and often misunderstood emotion, especially among men. While society may encourage its suppression or view it negatively, anger, when acknowledged and channeled appropriately, can serve as a catalyst for personal growth and transformation. In this episode of The Circle, hosts Eric Bomyea and Timothy Bish go all in on the comple…

1
Andrew Porter on his new novel, 'The Imagined Life' 14:11

3M ago14:11

14:11

How much do we really want to know about our parents' past lives? Author Andrew Porter recently told KMUW's Beth Golay that this is just one question addressed in his novel, "The Imagined Life."By Beth Golay

1
Emotional Alchemy with Alex Lehmann: Transforming the Pain of Otherness into Purpose 59:41

3M ago59:41

59:41

Many men grow up feeling othered—whether due to cultural differences, personal identity, or societal expectations. This sense of disconnection can shape their emotional landscape, leading to shame, isolation, and a struggle to express their true selves. But what if those experiences could be transformed into a source of clarity, strength, and purpo…

1
Visiting poet Michael Prior on his two collections 'Model Disciple' and 'Burning Province' 24:13

3M ago24:13

24:13

The Writing Now | Reading Now: Reading with visiting poet Michael Prior will begin at 6 pm on Tuesday, April 8th at the Ulrich Museum of Art at Wichita State University following a 5:30 pm reception.By Beth Golay

1
Sarah Kay on her poetry collection, 'A Little Daylight Left' 35:33

3M ago35:33

35:33

Beth Golay recently spoke with Sarah Kay about her new collection of poetry, A Little Daylight Left.By Beth Golay

1
Rediscovering Joy in Men's Work: Unlocking Personal Growth and Purpose Through the Embodiment of Joy 53:27

3M ago53:27

53:27

In this episode of The Circle Podcast, we go all in on the often-overlooked role of joy in men’s work and embodiment practices. While grief, anger, and fear frequently dominate men’s spaces, joy remains an underdeveloped muscle—one that, when cultivated, can become a profound source of purpose and connection. Eric and Tim unpack why many men strugg…

1
Leading with Heart: Steve Azar on Community, Spirituality, and Transformation 50:35

3M ago50:35

50:35

In this episode, Tim and Eric sit down with real estate entrepreneur and environmental engineer Steve Azar to explore how leading with heart can shape not just businesses, but entire communities. From high-rise developments to Provincetown’s historic Gifford House, Steve’s work is deeply rooted in impact, intention, and connection. We discuss his j…

1
Ron Currie on his new novel, 'The Savage, Noble Death of Babs Dionne' 24:17

3M ago24:17

24:17

Beth Golay recently spoke with Ron Currie about "The Savage, Noble Death of Babs Dionne." Currie will be at Watermark Books & Cafe for an author event on Friday, March 28th at 6 pm.By Beth Golay

1
Transforming Judgment: A Path to Growth in Men's Work 59:36

4M ago59:36

59:36

Judgment is a natural human response, but how often do we pause to examine its impact on our lives? In this episode, Eric and Tim go all in on the role of judgment in men's work, exploring how it can disrupt presence and hinder personal growth. They discuss the nuances of self-judgment and the fear of being judged by others, particularly within the…

1
Evie Wyld on 'The Echoes' 16:34

4M ago16:34

16:34

Beth Golay recently spoke with Evie Wyld about her novel, 'The Echoes,' which touches on the indigenous Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history in Australia.By Beth Golay

1
Steady Leadership: Julian Cyr on Calmness as a Form of Resistance 58:27

4M ago58:27

58:27

In a world that rewards quick reactions, what happens when we choose calmness as a form of resistance? In this episode of The Circle Podcast, we sit down with Massachusetts State Senator Julian Cyr to explore how steadiness, patience, and emotional regulation shape leadership, activism, and personal growth. Senator Cyr shares his journey from growi…

1
Karen Russell on her new novel, 'The Antidote' 32:08

4M ago32:08

32:08

Beth Golay recently spoke with Karen Russell about where her novel "The Antidote" began for her.By Beth Golay

1
Embracing Discomfort: Transforming Limiting Beliefs Through Patience and Discipline 1:03:09

4M ago1:03:09

1:03:09

In this episode of The Circle Podcast, we explore the discomfort that comes with breaking free from limiting beliefs and stepping into a more empowered way of being. Transformation isn’t instant—it requires patience, discipline, and a willingness to sit with discomfort rather than avoid it. Eric and Tim unpack why growth often feels unsettling and …

1
Nathaniel Ian Miller on his new novel, 'Red Dog Farm' 21:59

4M ago21:59

21:59

Beth Golay recently poke with Nathaniel Ian Miller about the relationship dynamics in "Red Dog Farm," and how he accidentally wrote a second book set in a cold and remote environment.By Beth Golay

1
Healing the Wounded Boy: How Men's Work Helps Us Step Into Maturity with Soma Miller 54:31

4M ago54:31

54:31

In this episode of The Circle Podcast, we sit down with Soma Miller, founder of The Essential Man, to explore how unresolved wounds shape our lives and how men’s work, brotherhood, and embodiment practices help us step into maturity, integrity, and purpose. Soma shares his personal journey into men’s work, influenced by mentors like Francis Weller …

1
Sophie Madeline Dess on her debut novel, 'What You Make of Me' 18:57

4M ago18:57

18:57

Beth Golay recently spoke with Sophie Madeline Dess about the different artistic mediums featured in her debut novel, "What You Make of Me."By Beth Golay

1
From Obligation to Choice: Reframing Shoulds & Embracing Intentionality in Men's Work 56:49

5M ago56:49

56:49

In this episode of The Circle, Eric and Tim explore how men can shift from living in a world of “shoulds” and obligations to consciously choosing their actions with clarity and intention. Drawing from men’s embodiment practices, Marshall Rosenberg’s Nonviolent Communication, and mindfulness techniques, they unpack the subtle but powerful difference…

1
Eric Puchner on his new novel, 'Dream State' 17:13

5M ago17:13

17:13

In his new novel, author Eric Puchner's "Dream State" explores the effects of climate change through a multi-generational saga. As he tells KMUW's Beth Golay, it begins when two people fall in love.By Beth Golay

1
Reclaiming Fitness: Queer Strength, Body Image, and Self-Love | GBTQ+ Wellness with Matt Boyles 1:05:24

5M ago1:05:24

1:05:24

How do queer men reclaim fitness as a space of empowerment rather than exclusion? In this episode of The Circle, we sit down with Matt Boyles, founder of Fitter Confident You, a fitness platform designed specifically for gay, bi, and trans men. Together, we explore the intersection of body image, societal expectations, and movement—unpacking the hy…

1
Tova Mirvis on her new novel, 'We Would Never' 17:05

5M ago17:05

17:05

Beth Golay recently spoke with Tova Mirvis about her novel "We Would Never," inspired by the discovery of a true crime story.By Beth Golay

1
Expanding Capacity: Building Real Strength to Move from Burnout to Balance 51:56

5M ago51:56

51:56

In this episode of The Circle, the Podcast for Queer Men's Embodiment, we take a deep dive into the strong man archetype—the societal expectation that men must always have the answers, never ask for help, and handle everything alone. These pressures often lead to overwhelm, isolation, and burnout, especially for queer men navigating mental, emotion…

1
Mischa Berlinski on Shakespeare, actors and 'Mona Acts Out' 23:49

5M ago23:49

23:49

"Mona Acts Out" by Mischa Berlinski is a novel set in the world of theatre in New York City, specifically, Shakespearean theatre. KMUW's Beth Golay visited with Berlinski about his novel, and how the #MeToo movement affected his characters and his plot.By Beth Golay

1
Embodying Polarity: Mackenzie on Masculine & Feminine Energies Through Drag 50:18

5M ago50:18

50:18

In this episode of The Circle, Timothy Bish and Eric Bomyea are joined by Mackenzie, a drag entertainer, philanthropist, and artist. Mackenzie shares their journey of navigating the balance between masculine and feminine energies, using drag as a powerful tool for self-expression and transformation. Together, they explore breaking societal norms, n…

1
Lola Kirke on her new book, 'Wild West Village' 13:45

5M ago13:45

13:45

Lola Kirke grew up feeling like an outsider in her larger-than-life family of creatives. In her new book titled "Wild West Village," she details some of the memories of growing up in that family, and, as she told KMUW's Beth Golay, how the experience influenced who she is today - an actress and country music singer.…

1
The Complexity of Gratitude: Moving Beyond Obligations and Performative Thank Yous 55:59

5M ago55:59

55:59

In this episode of The Circle, Tim and Eric go all in on the emotional complexities of gratitude, exploring how to move beyond performative expressions and embrace authentic gratitude. Through personal stories and reflections, they unpack the challenges men face in connecting with genuine feelings of gratitude—particularly when societal expectation…

1
Queer Confidence in Healthcare: Advocating for Authenticity and Empowerment 1:11:02

6M ago1:11:02

1:11:02

In this episode of The Circle, Eric and Tim welcome Jeffrey Schaffer, a nurse and LGBTQ+ program manager, to explore how queer men can approach healthcare with confidence and authenticity. They dive into how men’s work provides tools to navigate medical spaces, unpack stigma, and advocate for oneself with courage and clarity. Discover practical adv…

1
Adam Ross on his new novel, 'Playworld' 32:39

6M ago32:39

32:39

In his new coming-of-age novel, Playworld, author Adam Ross writes about a child actor who must also deal with school, young crushes, adults behaving badly, and the many challenges that come with being a teenage. As he told KMUW's Beth Golay, this fictional account rhymes with his own life.By Beth Golay

1
Authentic Power: Moving Beyond the ‘Strong Man’ Archetype in Men’s Work 56:57

6M ago56:57

56:57

In this episode of The Circle, Tim and Eric break down the difference between fear-based, control-driven power and a more authentic, heart-centered approach to strength. They challenge the “strong man” stereotype—where force and dominance prevail—and introduce men’s work principles that help men tap into self-awareness, conscious choice-making, and…

1
Adam Haslett on his new novel, 'Mothers and Sons' 20:22

6M ago20:22

20:22

Pulitzer Prize–finalist Adam Haslett has a new novel out today titled, Mothers and Sons. The book explores grief, immigration, sexuality and politics.By Beth Golay

1
Philip Nel on 'How to Draw the World: Harold and the Purple Crayon and the Making of a Children’s Classic' 26:46

6M ago26:46

26:46

Beth Golay recently spoke with Philip Nel about the structure of his new book "How to Draw the World: Harold and the Purple Crayon and the Making of a Children’s Classic," as well as some of the historical context surrounding the book’s publication.By Beth Golay

1
From Superheroes to Real-World Heroes: Phil Jimenez on Men’s Work and Authentic Heroism 1:02:08

6M ago1:02:08

1:02:08

In this episode of The Circle Podcast, we dive into the world of superheroes with special guest Phil Jimenez, renowned comic book artist and writer. Together, we explore how the traits that define our favorite heroes—presence, authenticity, vulnerability, and courage—are also the “superpowers” everyday men can cultivate through men’s work. Phil sha…

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Pretend To Imagine Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

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