Parker and Sam unpack the reality of loneliness in today’s hyper-connected world. They share personal experiences and coping strategies, emphasizing that feeling isolated doesn’t mean something is wrong with you...it’s part of being human.

Elevator No. 204: Richie Frieman is a best-selling author, illustrator, entrepreneur, and former professional wrestler dubbed a "Modern-Day Renaissance Man." His latest memoir, The Optimistics, highlights powerful love stories within the dementia community and showcases his lifelong commitment to resilience and creativity.

In this conversation, Richie shares how trying, failing, and leading with vulnerability have shaped his life, from the wrestling ring to the writing desk. Parker and Sam talk with Richie about lessons on mental fortitude, storytelling, battling stigma, and why building meaningful human connections is more important now than ever.

03:01
The Journey of a Professional Trier

06:14
The Art of Trying: Overcoming Challenges

09:08
Writing for Purpose: Balancing Art and Business

11:48
The Impact of Alzheimer's: Personal Stories and Insights

28:24
Embracing Vulnerability and Real Conversations

30:29
The Importance of Mental Fortitude

40:54
Food and Community in Baltimore

41:52
Book Recommendations and Inspirations

44:25
Richie's Mental Motto

This week, Sam and Parker unpack a feeling many of us struggle to name. When everything is technically fine but something still feels off. From job dissatisfaction to global chaos bleeding into our daily routines, they explore how comfort can quietly convince us to play small.

00:00
Introduction and Celebration Plans

01:20
Feeling Stuck at 30

05:08
Exploring Community and Fulfillment

10:46
The Search for New Opportunities

12:32
Elevator Shoutouts