My guest is incredibly special to me, especially since he is my husband. Rear Admiral Stephen Oswald, USN (ret) is a distinguished former astronaut and Naval Aviator who embarked on a remarkable career that spanned various facets of aviation and space exploration. His journey began at the United States Naval Academy in 1973. Following his graduatio…

On Episode 287 of the Enormocast, I connect with Paraclimbing champion, Mo Beck. Mo was born with one hand, and her parents were determined to make sure she was ready for challenges of life like any other kid. When Mo ran into a camp counselor that told her that she didn’t HAVE TO climb if … Continue reading "Enormocast 287: Mo Beck – A Certain Ver…

Ed Bisch, the relentless advocate and founder of Relatives Against Purdue Pharma (RAPP), talks about his 23 year struggle to make sure Purdue Pharma is held accountable for their irresponsible promotion and distribution of the highly addictive and potentially deadly drug OxyContin. Motivated by personal tragedy with the loss of his son, and driven …

Our podcast guest, Chris Didier, a pilot for United Airlines and Executive Board Member for Stop the Void shares the heart-wrenching story of losing his 17-year-old son to a single pill laced with fentanyl. Chris talks about this tragic incident and how it underscores the critical need for parents to have open and honest conversations with their ch…

On Episode 287 of the Enormocast, I connect through to America’s hat with Swiss crack-master, Didier Berthod. You might have heard about Didier from his recent send of Cobra Crack. The media mentions Didier disappearing from climbing for 10 years, returning to slay the Cobra, yada, yada, but that Didier’s completion of the Cobra has … Continue read…

In the early 2000s, Didier Berthod was the best crack climber in the world, then he dropped out of climbing and essentially disappeared from the world. When we left Didier Berthod in Facing the World Part 1, he had emerged from monastic life, contacted the daughter he had never seen, and returned to climbing. In … Continue reading "Enormocast Tween…

On this podcast episode, we are honored to host Katheryn Burgum, the First Lady of North Dakota, who is a powerful advocate for initiatives aimed at reducing the stigma surrounding drug addiction. Drawing from her own courageous journey of 15 years in recovery, she openly shares her experiences, breaking down barriers and fostering a more compassio…

Kim Humphrey, the Executive Director of Parents of Addicted Loved Ones (PAL). Kim's organization plays a crucial role in assisting parents who are navigating the challenging journey of having children with addiction issues and how they empower parents to lead by example. By fostering resilience and promoting healthy behaviors, Kim and his team help…

US Representative Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers has served in the House of Representatives for the past 20 years. During her tenure she has risen to hold the gavel on one of the most prestigious and powerful committees in the US Congress, the Energy and Commerce Committee. We spoke about her work combatting the opioid and fentanyl overdose e…

On Episode 285 of the Enormocast, after long last, I connect with Belgian rock-climber and alpinist, Nico Favresse. Nico is certainly a contender for the most experienced expedition rock-climber of all time. Perhaps only rivalled by his ubiquitous partner, Sean Villanueva-O’Driscoll? Nevertheless, Nico is an all-arounder who has tackled the biggest…

On this episode of Sagely Speaking, I was glad to welcome Gil Kerlikowske to the pod. Gil served as the Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy under President Obama for 5 years. After that service, he lead the Customs and Border Protection. It’s worth noting that he had a strong background in law enforement after leading the Seattle…

Congressman Patrick Kennedy (ret.) calls Kevin the “Happy Warrior”. Kevin is a warrior when it comes to smart drug policy, and the sheer weight of his beliefs and his dedication to his convictions will win any debate. He strongly believes in drug abuse prevention first. oCRmmYfosdS08XNKxKRwBy Mary Bono

In this very important episode, we welcome Dr. Bertha Madras who has been at the forefront of discussions around drug policy for decades. Among the many areas she focuses on, we discussed her research into psychedelic drug therapies and her very concerned viewpoint. With billions of dollars pouring into this emerging field, Dr. Madras sheds light o…

Emmitt Smith, the three time Super Bowl champion and football legend emphasizes the importance of mental toughness and physical resilience in the sport. Smith, who famously played through injuries with minimal medication, warns about the dangers of relying on opioids for pain management. He talks about his role as a speaker at college campuses, edu…

Greg Totten, CEO of the California District Attorneys Association, is an influential figure at the forefront of the multifaceted challenges facing California, including homelessness, rampant retail theft, and the alarming rise of fentanyl addiction. He is leading the efforts on a California measure called, The Homelessness, Drug Addiction and Theft…

Join us on this groundbreaking episode of 'The Ronin Mindset' as host Steve Didier sits down with the remarkable Sean Barnes, a visionary who has masterfully transitioned from a successful two-decade career in the oil and gas industry to the entrepreneurial world with his consulting venture, WSS Solutions. Dive deep into an enriching conversation t…

On Episode 284 of the Enormocast, we connect across the pond to North Wales in the U.K. and into the living room of Emma Twyford. Emma is a pioneering woman in that rarified air of hard, desperate trad that only the old country can serve up. She is the first British woman to climb 9a … Continue reading "Enormocast 284: Emma Twyford – Getting on Wit…

On this episode, I had the privilege of hosting a seasoned expert, a 32-year veteran of the DEA, whose insights shed light on the intricate dynamics of the drug trade. Our conversation delved into the complex interplay between supply and demand, touching upon the operations of drug cartels and the influence of global players like China. We explored…

On Episode 283 of the Enormocast, I sit down in a hotel in Munising, Michigan at the Michigan Icefest with Alaska-based alpinist, Clint Helander. What with the Chris Kalous Dance Party and the last call nightcap(s) at a bar literally called Whisky Dick’s, it had been a long night and an early morning for both … Continue reading "Enormocast 283: Cli…

If you're an employer you really need to tune in to this week’s show. Lorraine Martin talks about her leadership at the National Safety Council, and how the NSC serves as a vital conduit for workplace safety information. She offers comprehensive guidelines for general safety practices and talks about the concerning rise in drug overdoses in workpla…

In this riveting episode of The Ronin Mindset, we delve deep into the heart of resilience, purpose, and the authentic path to masculinity with the remarkable AJ Adams. A marketing maven known for catapulting companies into the echelons of 8-figure revenues, AJ's journey from the financial hardships on the shores of Guam to the pinnacle of entrepren…

Michael Braun sheds light on the intricate network behind the Mexican cartels' dominance in supplying fentanyl, emphasizing their dependence on chemical companies in China for production. He underscores the financial motivations driving this collaboration and raising questions about China's role in facilitating such operations and the potential mot…

Embark on a transformative journey with "The Ronin Mindset" podcast as we delve deep into the powerful narrative of Brayand Ponciano, also known as BP. From the rough edges of adversity, surrounded by gangs, drugs, and violence, to the pinnacle of self-made success, BP's story is not just a tale of triumph but a testament to the indomitable human s…

On Episode 282 of the Enormocast, I sit down with US Olympic qualifier, Natalia Grossman. That’s right, Natalia is headed to Paris to represent the US in Lead and Boulder combined (speed is separate this time around). But this moment was caught during a bit of down time for Natalia as she ramps up for … Continue reading "Enormocast 282: Natalia Gro…

Welcome to a special episode of "The Ronin Mindset," where I embark on a remarkable journey through the realms of podcasting, personal growth, and the unexpected wonders of the world. In this episode, I am thrilled to have Mo Naboulsi, the mastermind behind the inspiring podcast "Habits of the Few," as my esteemed guest. The Ronin world runs on caf…

A proven thought leader and Professor of Psychiatry at Stanford University, Dr. Keith Humphreys emphasizes the crucial role of law enforcement and health care workers joining together to solve our Nation's drug problem. He also talks about his leadership as a former drug policy advisor at the White House in expanding public access to naloxone, the …

On this in-between episode of the Enormocast, Harvey Wright from Episode 222 returns to discuss his ongoing treatment and recovery for addiction. But more importantly, Harvey is here to talk about his new album, Patio Pacifica, written almost entirely while in a Vancouver treatment facility. Also, we talk about the rough and dirty years since … Con…

In this transformational episode of my podcast, I am honored to welcome Suzanne Dwyer, a beacon of light in the realm of business development coaching. Suzanne's journey is one of profound resilience and enlightenment, evolving from humble beginnings to establishing a thriving coaching empire. Her mission transcends the conventional boundaries of s…

Renowned addiction specialist and popular television host, an author, and a public speaker Dr. Drew Pinsky dives into the complex landscape of addiction, parenting, treatment and the lack of facilities, and the policies surrounding these issues and gives the most honest, practical, and up-to-date medical advice based on scientific evidence.…

In this captivating episode of The Ronin Mindset, we journey into the extraordinary lives of Alise and Gregg Saunders, a couple who dared to step beyond the conventional boundaries of society to embrace the boundless freedom of digital nomadism. Having shed the shackles of their corporate existence and the monotony of daily routine, they embarked o…

Welcome to another transformative episode of "The Ronin Mindset," where we explore the confluence of purpose, passion, and entrepreneurial spirit. In this compelling session, we sit down with Michelle Vandepas, a beacon of inspiration and a guiding light for those seeking to carve out a path of authentic success. Nestled in the serene mountains of …

Innovate, Outsource, Conquer: The Karla Singson Way - In this enlightening episode of "The Ronin Mindset," we dive deep into the entrepreneurial journey of Karla Singson, a visionary business leader from the Philippines. With an unwavering entrepreneurial spirit that sparked at a young age, Karla's story is a testament to the power of perseverance,…

In this episode we delve into the complex world of the drug epidemic and an innovative academic response with the founding director of the Institute for Addiction Science at host Mary Bono's alma mater, the University of Southern California (USC). In this insightful conversation, Dr. Adam Leventhal, discusses his approach to the multifaceted issues…

On Episode 281 of the Enormocast, Jon Hawk and Tye Liggins from Memphis Rox join to discuss the mission of the famous pay-what-you-can gym, Memphis Rox, in the inner-city of Memphis, TN. Jon is director of operations, and Tye went from walk-in to head coach and course-setter. Memphis Rox, founded by Tom Shadyac in 2018, … Continue reading "Enormoca…

In this compelling episode Congresswoman Mary Bono engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Captain Christopher Jones, the Director of the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, about the critical importance of safeguarding our loved ones from the dangers of substance abuse. Their conversation delves into the multifaceted challenges faced by …

In this profoundly inspiring episode of "The Ronin Mindset," we are honored to host Stephanie Pierucci, a testament to the indomitable human spirit. Stephanie, a single mother, author, activist, and the visionary behind Pierucci Publishing - a burgeoning media and publishing empire, shares her riveting journey from the brink of despair to the pinna…

Mary Bono's guest this episode on Sagely Speaking is a friend and a leader in advocacy and policy at Safe States Alliance. With his commitment to public health, Rich Hamburg works tirelessly to address a myriad of issues, always prioritizing prevention and wellness. His dedication to promoting policies that safeguard communities against illness and…

In this deeply moving episode of The Ronin Mindset, I sit down with the exceptionally talented and resilient Linda Schwartz, whose journey from a challenging childhood to comedic stardom is nothing short of inspirational. Born to Laotian immigrants in Savannah, Georgia, Linda's early life was marked by financial hardship and familial dysfunction, l…

In this inspiring episode of The Ronin Mindset, we journey through the life-changing narrative of Sara Vafa, a visionary photographer who transformed her life and career under the sun-drenched skies of Los Cabos, Mexico. Raised in the cloud-cloaked environs of Vancouver, Canada, Sara initially pursued a path in graphic design, only to find herself …

On Episode 280 of the Enormocast we present the 2024 Taps edition of the Enormocast. This is the annual episode where we lay to rest traditions, foibles, and notions in climbing that are either sadly going to sleep never to reawaken, or should be put to bed for good. The Enormocast is joined by our … Continue reading "Enormocast 280: Taps 2024 – Th…

In this compelling episode of the Ronin Mindset, we delve into the extraordinary journey of Mai Vu, a formidable female entrepreneur who shattered glass ceilings in the construction industry with her Phoenix-based company, Elevated Emergency Restoration (Elevated ER), launched in 2019. Mai's story is not just about starting a business; it's a vivid…

Despite enduring the heart-wrenching loss of her daughter to a tragic drug overdose, Angela Kennecke finds solace in channeling her grief into a beacon of hope for others. With unwavering determination, she founded a charity in her daughter's name, Emily's Hope, which is dedicated to supporting parents grappling with similar struggles. Angela remai…

In this empowering episode of The Ronin Mindset, we delve into the transformative world of credit repair with the renowned Ricardo Soto, a titan in the industry with an influential social media presence boasting over half a million followers, including a staggering 400,000+ on TikTok alone. Ricardo's journey is nothing short of inspirational; from …

Rob Perry, the visionary founder of XOMAD, talks about revolutionizing influencer marketing by tapping into the "power of local messengers," recognizing the potential to reach audiences en masse by employing local influencers. XOMAD can use the technology to disseminate the word about the current drug epidemic by leveraging authentic voices of infl…

On episode 279 of the Enormocast, we have an allt-ime double-header. First, David Smart joins from Toronto to talk about his life as a climber and his new book from The Mountaineers, Royal Robbins: The American Climber. Royal Robbins was one of the most influential climbers of all time, and David’s book is the most … Continue reading "Enormocast 27…

Tom Wolf, a fierce advocate against failing addiction and homeless policies, bravely took the stage in this episode of Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono, opening up about his journey through drug addiction and subsequent recovery. His story unfolds as a testament to resilience and the transformative power of rehabilitation. Wolf's candid account not o…

Congressman Buddy Carter passionately discusses the urgent need for Naloxone in every school across America. He underscores his critical role in the Saving our Students in School Act ensuring that every school is equipped to handle opioid-related incidents. Additionally, he touched upon his involvement in advancing Sammy's Law aimed at empowering p…

On Episode 278 of the Enormocast, I connect with Thomas Bukowski from my home to his van sitting in Yosemite. Thomas had just completed three El Cap routes in three days, and was recovering. His next adventures in Patagonia were just on the horizon. Thomas is an American citizen, but is also half Chinese and … Continue reading "Enormocast 278: Thom…

As we stare down into the howling void of Government regulation of our dear sport, let us give thanks and a listen to Armando Menocal from 2015. Armando has made it his life’s work to keep the simpering bureaucrats in Washington and elsewhere at bay. But lately, they have reared their heads in an attempt … Continue reading "Enormocast Rebroadcast: …

The inaugural Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono kicks off with Matt Capelouto who lost his daughter Alexandra to fentanyl poisoning in 2019. Matt became president of Drug-Induced Homicide Foundation, and has introduced Senate Bill 44, otherwise known as "Alexandra's Law," which would help prosecutors bring murder charges against convicted drug dealers…