What if the most honest version of you only appears when you’re asleep?   In this episode, Scott Asmar revisits his longtime fascination with dreaming—not to interpret symbols, but to explore the bigger mystery of why we dream at all. He touches on lucid dreaming, where some sleepers become conscious enough to steer the story, and contrasts that sense of control with his own real-life struggle with night terrors—episodes of sheer panic that strike in non-REM sleep, where the body thrashes but the mind can’t fully wake.   Scott also reflects on new research linking nightmares to accelerated aging and long-term health risks, raising an unexpected question: what is the emotional toll of what happens at night?   From recurring school dreams to the fading era of black-and-white dreamers, this episode is less about explanation and more about awareness. Whether your dreams comfort you or confront you, Scott invites you to pay attention, because even in sleep, your mind may be trying to tell you something.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction & Dream Theory Recap 01:15 What Is Lucid Dreaming? (Inception, History & Science) 03:29 Can You Train Yourself to Control Dreams? 04:12 Why Do We Dream? The Unanswered Question 05:07 Night Terrors vs. Nightmares: Personal and Scientific Insights 08:38 Recurring Dreams and Dreaming in Color vs. Black & White 09:54 Share Your Dream Experiences   Connect with Scott Asmar: Follow Scott on Instagram Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Dreams aren’t just stories we forget when the alarm clock goes off. For Scott Asmar, they’re part memory lab, part survival training, and sometimes, part mystery that can’t be explained.   In this episode, Scott shares how an old dissertation he wrote back in 1999 opened the door to a fresh look at dream theory. Growing up in a family where dreams carried meaning—his great-grandmother once dreamed of him standing by a white lamb, and later dreamed of her late son comforting her—Scott learned early that dreams can heal, warn, and guide. Revisiting his work decades later, he asks: what do researchers say about dreams now?   From theories that see dreams as survival rehearsals, to those that mirror daily stress or act as emotional “housekeeping,” Scott explores the many ways science has tried to explain what happens when we sleep. Technology has even entered the mix, with AI now able to turn dream reports into 3D visualizations. Still, Scott comes back to a simple truth: just as no two people are alike, no two dream lives are either.   On #WorldMentalHealthDay, this episode invites you to pause, reflect, and consider what your own dreams might be saying about your mind, your heart, and your healing. Quotes “I grew up in a family that always valued their dreams. For whatever reason, they valued their dreams. My grandmother had dreams. My great grandmother had dreams. And in fact, two distinct dreams that my great grandmother had was she would tell me that when I was born, she had a dream of me as a toddler standing next to a white lamb. And that was a dream that always stuck with me.(01:53 | Scott Asmar) “From the time I've done my research to the present, dreams are no longer just mystical messaging or random noise. And we've got to remember that dreams were also in biblical times and ancient times and dreams are from the beginning of time.” (08:29 | Scott Asmar) “We’ll never understand dreams. That is just one concept.” (09:40 | Scott Asmar) “ We are all wired differently…I think just as we're different, we dream different.” (09:51 | Scott Asmar) “Sleep Good and Dream Big.” (11:01 | Scott Asmar) Links World Mental Health Day: https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-mental-health-day   Connect with Scott Asmar: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottasmar5/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

What do nuclear fusion physics and micro-budget filmmaking have in common? More than you’d think. In this episode, Scott Asmar sits down with longtime friend (and newly discovered distant relative!) Robert Deranian, a PhD physicist turned independent filmmaker.   Robert shares how surfing, Armenian heritage, and a love of storytelling pulled him from the lab into independent film. From micro-budget sets where everyone wears multiple hats to projects that bridge history, politics, and personal identity, his work reflects both curiosity and conviction.   The conversation spans Robert’s early documentary work to his newest film The Republic, which looks at Vietnam, January 6th, and the question of what really shapes our choices. He and Scott also talk about the freedom of independent filmmaking, the challenge of distribution, and why heartfelt stories still matter in a world dominated by blockbusters.   For anyone reevaluating purpose in midlife, Robert’s journey is a reminder that it’s never too late to connect the dots between science, art, and personal truth.   Quotes “I really like science, and I still do, you know. With film, and when I say film, it’s all aspects of it.” (05:30 | Robert Deranian) “People that make these kinds of films, what’s great about them is they’re not beholden to a budget, essentially. So on the one hand, you can’t have big explosives or anything like that, but you can make really innovative stories because you’re the one that controls it.” (06:38 | Robert Deranian) “At one point, the actor John Cook, playing Mike, says, “How the hell did I get into this?” Like, he doesn’t know. It just happens. That’s life, right? We get into problems. We don’t realize where it’s going to take us, you know? But I think in the end, it’s a super powerful message.” (14:16 | Robert Deranian) “There’s so much duplication in Hollywood of movies. It’s like, OK, the Marvel movies are like over and over and over and over again. And there’s a reason for it. My understanding is the reason they do that is because they’ve got so much money into it, they cannot afford to take chances. So they’re just going to play it safe. Whereas guys like us, like you and me, we just can go for it.” (15:26 | Robert Deranian) “I think my view of actors is that I think that there’s something natural about a good actor. They’re good because it’s just in them.” (17:21 | Robert Deranian)   Connect with Scott Asmar: Instagram Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

What you wear says more than you think, and midlife is the right time to let your style catch up to who you’ve become. In this episode, Scott Asmar is joined by fashion expert AJ of Beverly Hills to talk personal style, quiet luxury, and how fashion can be both expressive and practical, especially in midlife. From the impact of a well-cut bomber jacket to the psychology behind subtle prints and quality fabrics, AJ shares insights shaped by years in the luxury fashion world, including his start at Cartier and his current work as an image consultant and stylist.   Their conversation moves from fashion weeks in Milan and Paris to everyday style choices that make people feel more like themselves. AJ offers advice for men and women who want to feel current without chasing trends, and explains why mixing vintage with new, or designer with basic, can still look intentional. He also opens up about the role of jewelry in personal style and why some pieces are worth the investment, while others are better customized.    For anyone reevaluating their image at midlife, Scott and AJ’s conversation is a reminder that style isn’t about impressing others, but about expressing yourself.   Quotes “Fashion is a lot more important than people think. I mean, you’re in the courtroom, and you’re a lawyer—the way you dress is so important.” (03:32 | AJ of Beverly Hills) “It’s not about being loud. It’s about the luxury being for you.” (10:36 | AJ of Beverly Hills) “We forget that sometimes we dress for everyone else, but it’s also for ourselves. Dressing for yourself.” (10:57 | AJ of Beverly Hills) “You don’t want to dress yourself to the point where you’re aging yourself, and then you don’t want to dress yourself to the point where you look like you’re 18 and it doesn’t work.” (27:21 | AJ of Beverly Hills) “There’s a lot of ways you can subtly change the type of piece that you’re wearing that will change the way you look, the way you feel, and you’ll just look very fresh and feel great.” (28:46 | AJ of Beverly Hills)   Links Lotus Beverly Hills: www.lotusbeverlyhills.com https://www.instagram.com/lotusbeverlyhills/   Connect with Scott Asmar: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottasmar5/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Diane Christiansen thought she’d missed her big break. But the path that opened instead led to a life full of creativity, community, and unexpected fulfillment.   In this episode, Scott Asmar welcomes Diane, his friend, mentor, and acting coach, to reflect on the stories behind her memoir “The Last Real Showgirl: My Sequined 70s on Stage.” She shares how she got her start at 13, fueled by babysitting money and a clear sense of purpose. From that moment on, she poured herself into the work, never waiting to be chosen.   What do you do when the opportunity you’ve been waiting for never comes? Diane opens up about her early audition for the Rockettes and the painful truth she uncovered years later, that her mentor never passed along the callback. It’s a moment that could have defined her differently. Instead, it pushed her toward something else entirely.   Scott and Diane talk about ambition, mentorship, and the winding nature of a creative life. They look at the ways the entertainment industry has shifted, and the parts that haven’t. There’s a sense of perspective here that only comes with time: the kind that sees rejection differently and understands the value of patience.   This conversation is for anyone standing at a crossroads, wondering if the missed chances ever really mattered.   Quotes “I don’t think I could have been just like every other girl in the line. I don’t think it was my destiny.” (11:20 | Diane Christiansen) “The great author Marianne Williamson says in her book, ‘A Return to Love,’ she said, she finds that grist of your mill the most interesting thing about a person. It’s like, what happened to that person to make them great?” (14:01 | Diane Christiansen) “It had a lot to do with ambition. It had a lot to do with wanting to stay in show business and at that level and being paid well and with those kinds of contracts and with the wonderful people that I got to work with.” (16:53 | Diane Christiansen) “The things that were difficult, I learned the most from.” (35:01 | Diane Christiansen) “It’s always a joy when people apply the skills and run with them.” (37:42 | Diane Christiansen) Links Connect with Diane Christiansen: https://mcfarlandbooks.com/product/the-last-real-showgirl/?srsltid=AfmBOopIU_UQUjzdoxLncQojXCx-0Ok6jvpHUkPcVLlSI2IG1MtRJYdz  https://www.instagram.com/the_last_real_showgirl/  https://www.christiansenactingacademy.com/   Connect with Scott Asmar: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottasmar5/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Saying yes to everyone else gets easier over the years… until one day, you realize how far you’ve drifted from yourself.   In this episode, Scott Asmar sits down with his cousin and longtime confidant, Jacqueline Lion, to talk about what happens when life quiets down and you finally have the space to ask: What do I actually want now? They look back on decades of putting others first: raising kids, caring for parents, showing up in their marriages, and they unpack the difference between being generous and losing yourself. Where’s the line between serving others and people-pleasing? And what does it take to start choosing yourself without guilt?   Jacqueline opens up about a recent turning point: a solo trip to Armenia to support a powerful documentary about the resilience of the Artsakh people. That experience didn’t just reconnect her with her culture. It reminded her of who she is and what she still wants to create. From that clarity came a bold decision to launch a podcast of her own, focused on motherhood, identity, and the messy beauty of midlife.   This episode is full of warmth, honesty, and the kind of insight that comes from lived experience. If you’ve ever felt pulled in every direction but your own, this one will hit home.   Quotes “It’s very hard to serve myself. It’s hard because I feel selfish and I feel stingy.” (08:06 | Jacqueline Lion) “The first time you say no is so hard, but after that it’s really easy.” (09:39 | Jacqueline Lion) “I try to accommodate everyone, but I’m not going to accommodate at the sacrifice of my own happiness anymore.” (10:16 | Jacqueline Lion) “It’s really hard to look internally and say, ‘Where am I? What do I want and how can I achieve what I want without feeling bad for it?’” (10:53 | Jacqueline Lion) “Every single decade of my life when I have traveled [to Armenia], it has been nothing short of transformative.” (13:46 | Jacqueline Lion)   Links Connect with Jacqueline Lion: https://www.instagram.com/jacquelinelion/ https://www.instagram.com/theresnoplacelikehomemovie/   Connect with Scott Asmar: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottasmar5/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Midlife isn’t a crisis. For Scott Asmar, it’s a call to persevere with faith, purpose, and a renewed connection to Christ.   In this episode, Scott shares how his relationship with Christ has shaped his understanding of perseverance. He looks at the Lenten season not as a duty, but as a chance to reset, adding intention back into our spiritual lives and reconnecting with the commitments we so often lose sight of after the new year begins.   Scott opens up about the difficult seasons that tested him: childhood loneliness, personal loss, parenting challenges. What helped him keep going? A growing faith, a clearer sense of purpose, and the decision to turn toward God instead of away. He shares a conversation with a friend who faced unthinkable hardship and chose to draw closer to Christ in the aftermath, a reminder that we all face that same choice when life doesn’t go as planned.   With scripture from James 1:12 and a powerful reflection found in an old church cookbook, Scott invites listeners to reframe Lent as a time for both fasting and feasting, for trading worry for trust, and frustration for gratitude. How do we keep moving forward when everything feels heavy? Where do we find strength when we’re running low? This episode points back to faith as the answer, even when the questions feel overwhelming.   Quotes “One aspect of keeping our goals, one aspect of moving forward is perseverance. And we can see that in the Bible.” (02:37 | Scott Asmar) “And I look back at my challenges in life, my trials, and how did I get through those? And at the time, I probably didn’t really realize it, but it was through the grace of God who strengthens me.” (07:49 | Scott Asmar) “When tragedy, a trial, a tribulation of this magnitude happens, there are two ways you can go. You can either go away, you can either take the path and go away from God, or use that, get yourself closer to God.” (09:56 | Scott Asmar) “It is this time that I don’t worry, try not to worry, and I give it to God and literally say, let go and let God.” (12:44 | Scott Asmar) “Fast from discouragement. Feast on hope. Fast from suspicion. Feast on truth. Fast from thoughts that weaken. Feast on promises that inspire.” (15:47 | Scott Asmar)   Links https://www.instagram.com/p/DHJkNiPyHMY/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==   Connect with Scott Asmar: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottasmar5/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Midlife can feel like unfamiliar territory, but it might just be the perfect time to rebuild your faith from the inside out.   Scott Asmar opens up about stepping back from church after the pandemic and finding his way back to God through scripture, not structure. He shares how reading a single verse sparked deeper understanding, and how faith, trust, and confidence became the cornerstones of his spiritual growth.   What does it mean to leave your worries at the altar? And how do you build a relationship with God that feels personal, not performative? This episode is an honest reflection and a quiet challenge to begin—or begin again—with intention.   Quotes “How do you start a friendship with someone? It’s through communication. How is that communication? How do you do that? You talk with the person. And it's the same way prayer with God can be formal as it is in church, or it can be informal as a conversation.” (04:23 | Scott Asmar) “Our Bible is the autobiography of Christ in his life. And that is where we can begin our journey with him. It doesn’t have to be reading three or four chapters. It can just be reading a verse and meditating on that.” (04:47 | Scott Asmar) “Trials of life are what build our faith and trust in Christ. It is muscle-building and the faith of believing without seeing.” (06:18 | Scott Asmar)  “We’d go to church and put all our concerns and pray and put our tray on the altar. And church would end, and we’d go to the altar, and we’d take our tray, and we’d walk outside. And that’s not what God wants us to do. He wants us to leave the tray at the altar.” (07:28 | Scott Asmar) “It’s not just so much about going physically to church, but it’s understanding who Christ is through the Bible.” (10:40 | Scott Asmar)    Links https://www.instagram.com/p/DHJkNiPyHMY/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==   Connect with Scott Asmar: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottasmar5/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

A father’s presence shapes a daughter’s world in ways that last a lifetime. But as a father, what does it mean to show up, to listen, and to guide without overstepping?   In this episode, I sit down with Justin Goshgarian, a father of seven daughters, for an honest conversation about the challenges and rewards of fatherhood. We talk about what it takes to raise strong, independent women, the shift from protector to trusted advisor, and why sometimes the best thing a father can do is simply listen.   Justin shares his experiences navigating different personalities under one roof and how faith has shaped his parenting. This conversation is a heartfelt look at the role we play in shaping our daughters’ confidence, choices, and future relationships.   Quotes “I’ve always said the first man in a daughter’s life is her father.” (8:08 | Scott Asmar)  “Listen to your daughters and don’t try to fix it. Just listen, and honestly, that would be it. And just let your daughters know that you’ll be a sounding board. And when they want help, they will absolutely tell you.” (17:27 | Justin Goshgarian) “Those moments where you listen, you encourage, you pray—that does a lot for them. That’s all they really needed was just that encouragement, that time. Because when you’re in a low spot, it kind of picks you up, gives you that gumption to keep going.” (19:10 | Justin Goshgarian) “One thing I've done with all the girls is I've always given them a promise ring. For me, that promise ring means that there's always a reminder of your value and the value that I see in you, the value that God sees in you. And that, I'm always going to be there for you and always be that reminder for you.” (20:53 | Justin Goshgarian)   Links Connect with Scott Asmar: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottasmar5/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Being alone can feel peaceful or isolating. What makes the difference?   Scott Asmar sits down with licensed marriage and family therapist Natalie Kazarian to explore the line between solitude and loneliness. Can time alone be a source of strength, or does it always signal disconnection? They unpack how intentionality shapes our experience, why some people feel lonelier in a crowd than by themselves, and how to recognize when solitude is helping or hurting.   Scott reflects on his own shifts between being alone and feeling lonely, while Natalie shares ways to foster connection, whether through personal reflection, community, or small daily choices. They also break down the role of social media: does it connect us, or does it leave us more isolated?   Join Scott and Natalie’s discussion for a compelling look at how we experience being alone and what it takes to build meaningful connection.   Quotes “I believe that that is true loneliness when you don’t feel like there’s anybody there, but that’s different from being alone, which is a very positive thing as I see it.” (05:07 | Scott Asmar) “Aloneness can lead to feelings and thoughts around reflection, behavior, what we want to do in the future. It’s a really beautiful space. Again, if we’re seeing it in that kind of positive light, the positive sentiment of it, it’s a wonderful place to go for creativity, to understand ourselves better, and honestly, to reflect on the past too, which is not always a bad thing.” (07:11 | Natalie Kazarian)  “Robin Williams once said, ‘I used to think the worst thing in life is to end up all alone. It’s not. The worst thing in life is to end up with people who make you feel all alone.’” (09:45 | Natalie Kazarian) “And you brought up a point that I hadn’t thought about, actually, is that it is a punishment, as you say, in solitary confinement. So if we as humans, we’re punishing ourselves if we stay in solitude, or if we stay in that state.” (15:21 | Scott Asmar)  “I also believe that alone time does help you, and a positive thing of loneliness can help you prepare yourself for the next phase so that you can move to the next phase and appreciate where you have been and where you are at now.” (17:58 | Scott Asmar)    Links Connect with Scott Asmar: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottasmar5/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Parenting doesn’t end when kids grow up, but letting go of the “little kid” lens can open the door to a stronger, more empowering relationship. As a parent, how do you support your kid’s independence while holding onto the close connection you’ve built?     In this episode, Scott reflects on the ways old habits resurface when adult children come home, from driving them to appointments to managing their schedules, and how these actions, though loving, can unintentionally hold them back. Joined by his daughter Alexa, they unpack how these dynamics feel from both sides: Alexa’s need for autonomy and Scott’s struggle to let go of the “little kid” lens.     Through their conversation, they navigate the challenges of redefining the parent-child relationship and reflect on the lessons that come with this transition. If you’d like to learn how to let go while staying present, this episode offers insights and inspiration for parents and children alike.   Quotes “I think both you and I need to work on this, especially me, to work on, again, changing the lens in which I see you, because you are a young woman who is self-sufficient. And that was my goal in raising you, along with your mother. We want to make you autonomous, and know that we support you in everything that you do, and that you can come to us for anything, but you need to make those decisions… I think the guidance changes.” (09:41 | Scott Asmar) “I’m going through a big transition in my life from being a college student to postgrad. And it’s been hard finding a job and networking with people. And sometimes I just want to vent. In some cases, you’ll just be like, ‘Oh, well, you should do this and blah, blah, blah.’ And it's like, well, don't you think I'm already doing that? …I just need you to listen.” (11:34 | Alexa Asmar) “The first man in a daughter’s life is her father. And so, as a father, I want to make a good example. We’re not all perfect.” (12:42 | Scott Asmar)   Links Connect with Scott Asmar: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottasmar5/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

“Everybody has come from somewhere, and everyone has a story. Every story is important.”   In this episode, Scott Asmar reflects on his family’s Lebanese roots and his journey to reconnect with that heritage. He shares how his great-grandfather Anton left Lebanon with his bride, Mariam Helu, changing their family name from Asmar to Prieto to start a new life. This shift created a gap in the family’s connection to their past. Years later, Scott felt a deep need to reclaim his family’s original name and legally changed his own back to Asmar, honoring the identity his ancestors left behind.    Scott is joined by his uncle Eric, who shares a powerful story of his grandfather John’s service in WWII. Eric recalls how John courageously defended his fellow soldiers in a fierce battle, capturing the resilience and sacrifice of young men who risked everything for freedom. Through these stories, Scott invites listeners to think about their own family history and the significance of preserving memories for future generations. Heritage matters— it connects us to those who paved the way and grounds us in a shared legacy.   Quotes “My dad said he never fought for medals or things like that. It was just to help the cause and keep his comrades alive if he could.” (15:24 | Eric Prieto)  “Things may not always be great. We may get upset at certain aspects of the country. But we do live in the best country in the world because of people like my grandfather that fought for us.” (17:41 | Scott Asmar) “I think every American should be proud of being an American because without the rights that we have in our country, it’s just not the same… And I think our country is striving to be the best that it can be.” (20:12 | Eric Prieto) “I just urge all of you, especially those that are midlife like me, in their mid-50s, it does help and it does build character to dig into your heritage, regardless of where you came from, regardless of nationality or race or religion. Just get those stories from your family down on paper. Have them be told to you, and start developing that line of heritage and history for future generations.” (21:19 | Scott Asmar) “Everybody has come from somewhere, and everyone has a story. Every story is important.” (22:05 | Scott Asmar)   Links Connect with Scott Asmar: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottasmar5/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

“Fatherhood never stops,” Scott Asmar reflects in this episode as he talks about how being a dad changes as your kids grow into adults. He shares the moment he watched his daughter graduate and realized that parenting doesn’t end with their independence—it just shifts. What does it look like to support your kids when they’re no longer kids? Scott discusses how fatherhood has evolved, with dads becoming more involved at every stage of their children’s lives. He talks about the importance of staying close, carving out intentional time together, and respecting their adult children’s independence. How do you balance being there for your kids while giving them space to lead their own lives?    Scott’s message is clear—fatherhood is a lifelong journey, one that’s built on love, growth, and learning along the way.   Quotes “I had a revelation. And that revelation was that fatherhood doesn’t stop. Just because they’re graduating doesn’t mean fatherhood ends.” (01:30 | Scott Asmar)  “But sitting through that commencement, it hit me—wait a minute, your duties as a father aren’t stopping. They’re just morphing into something different, something that involves parenting adult children. It was this revelation that fatherhood, like your walk with Christ, is a journey. It continues until you lay your head down for the last time—you will always be a father.” (02:01 | Scott Asmar)  “Not only am I speaking to fathers who have biological children, but anyone can take on the role of fatherhood. And when you take on that role, you have to understand that it’s a lifelong journey.” (02:58 | Scott Asmar)  “I was taking inventory of what were the things that I did as a father for her growing up that got her to this point. Some of those things I remember are the words of encouragement and strength that I would instill in both my children, in Alexander and Alexa, and to always fill them with secure thoughts to cultivate independence and phrases like, ‘You know, I know you can do it. You have to know you can do it.’ The goal of raising them, raising children, being a father, is that when we are gone, they are able to carry on.” (05:57 | Scott Asmar)  “The most important thing that a father has to remember is that the time spent with our children is an investment, and that time is very important… We always have to remember that they’re a sponge; they’re the reason why we’re here, and we need to help them navigate through life. And that starts at a young age.” (09:51 | Scott Asmar)   Links www.fatherhood.gov for resources from the federal government   Connect with Scott Asmar: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottasmar5/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

“It’s okay to grieve, and it’s okay not to have a time limit on it. When the grief hits, it’s okay to grieve. It’s a very healthy emotion because it helps us move past the deep pits of sorrow and come to terms with the loss,” says Scott Asmar. In this episode, Scott reflects on his personal journey with loss, especially as he approaches the 10-year anniversary of his grandmother Ruby’s passing. This milestone serves as a reminder of the many loved ones he’s lost, including several family members who passed away between 2012 and 2014, leaving his family in a long period of mourning.   Scott opens up about the delayed grief he experienced, such as how the death of a friend from the 90s didn’t fully hit him until years later, sparked by the passing of singer Prince. Even with a background in psychology, Scott discovered firsthand that grief doesn’t follow a predictable timeline and can emerge in surprising ways.   Scott encourages listeners to give themselves permission to grieve without pressure, and he highlights the importance of keeping memories alive through stories, photos, and traditions, like the Armenian church’s Hoki Hankist, a prayer for souls at rest. He also shares a touching devotional from Pastor Rick Warren, reinforcing the idea that grief is not only natural but necessary. How do we find strength in the grieving process? Scott believes that by embracing grief, sharing it with loved ones or a higher power, and honoring those we’ve lost, we can move toward emotional healing and find comfort along the way.   Quotes “It’s okay to grieve, and it’s okay not to have a time limit on it. When the grief hits, it’s okay to grieve. It’s a very healthy emotion because it helps us move past the deep pits of sorrow and come to terms with the loss.” (06:52 | Scott Asmar)  “To me, it’s important to keep everyone who has passed in my life alive through stories, pictures, and dedications. One thing I love about my Armenian church is that we have what’s called Hoke Hankist. Hoke means soul, and Hankist means rest. It’s a prayer for the souls at rest… That means so much to me because it’s a remembrance that they were here, that they had a life, and that they helped mold who I am today.” (07:34 | Scott Asmar) “It’s important not to forget the deceased, in my opinion, and pictures are worth a thousand words in keeping those memories alive. As Christians, we believe that the dead shall rise, and we shall see them again, so they’re not gone forever. It’s okay to grieve, and it’s okay to experience delayed grief. If you have delayed grief, you’re not going crazy; it’s just something that triggers it in you. Work through it, process it, and hold on to the memories and the laughter, for they shape you and help you become stronger.” (08:36 | Scott Asmar) “The Bible teaches that it is important to grieve over your losses, including disappointments, sins, the suffering in the world, and friends who are spiritually lost. While grief is painful, it is also a healthy and necessary process. Grief is a gift from God because it helps you navigate the tough seasons of life, allowing difficult transitions to transform you… Don’t carry the pain alone—share it with God and with a close friend. Grieving opens your heart to receive comfort from God. (10:53  | Scott Asmar)    Links Connect with Scott Asmar: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottasmar5/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

“The older I get, the more I see the significance and importance of our military, of those who protect us in combat. My grandpa was one of those who fought for our freedom,” reflects Scott Asmar. In this episode, Scott shifts from his usual discussions on midlife reevaluations to pay tribute to his grandfather, John, a World War II paratrooper. The episode’s timing is meaningful, aligning with the 80th anniversary of the Normandy invasion, where John played a vital role.   Joining Scott is his uncle Eric, who has dedicated himself to preserving John’s legacy. Together, they explore John’s journey from his modest beginnings in Phoenix, Arizona, to his courageous service in the 82nd Airborne Division. Eric recounts gripping stories of John’s bravery during battles across Europe and the personal challenges he faced after returning home. How did John manage the psychological toll of war, especially in an era when PTSD wasn’t fully understood? The conversation uncovers the delayed recognition of his heroism and how he coped with the aftermath of war.   Scott and Eric offer a touching reflection on the lasting impact of war and the importance of honoring veterans like John. Despite the horrors they endured, these men retained their humanity and compassion, leaving a legacy that deserves to be remembered.   Quotes “A lot of young people grow up looking to sports figures or movie actors as role models. For me, it was very simple. The only person I looked up to and idolized was my dad. He was just an awesome father, and I loved him tremendously.” (05:57 | Eric Prieto)  “People don’t realize that my father was a very nice man, personally. He was a kind guy who would help anyone in trouble. For him to fight in the war—let’s face it, when you fight in a war, your job is to kill people—was totally against the fabric of who he was. Yet, he was willing to do that because of his love for his country and his family.” (15:57 | Eric Prieto)  “The stress of fighting in a war is stressful enough, just being there is stressful enough. But to have to actually kill people, that is where the traumatic syndrome comes from, is the act of killing other human beings.” (22:01 | Eric Prieto)  “Here’s a man who, through it all—the killing and seeing his comrades killing—still managed to show a little mercy to some people who were surrendering to him, to his prisoners. Despite having orders to kill the prisoners, he refused to do that. It shows that he refused to surrender his humanity. And I think that’s the part that stands out the most to me.” (27:09 | Eric Prieto)   Links Connect with Scott Asmar: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottasmar5/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

“There is an art of communication and you have to communicate things the right way” says Scott Asmar, bringing wisdom to the forefront in this episode of “The Man and Everything in Between" alongside his children. In a world where miscommunication can lead to a cascade of issues, Scott advocates for a shift towards more positive, supportive, and calm ways of expressing ourselves, especially as we navigate the complexities of midlife.   Scott's children, Alexander and Alexa, also share their perspectives. Alexander emphasizes the value of effective communication, from maintaining personal relationships to securing a spot in law school. Meanwhile, Alexa, on the cusp of launching her career with a film degree, reflects on the evolving communication with her parents, cherishing her father's unwavering support as she steps into the future.    Scott also recounts his leap from psychology to acting, revealing the candid feedback and encouragement from Alexander and Alexa. Their support highlights the importance of family backing in pursuing one's passions, regardless of the timing or the challenges ahead.   This episode extends an invitation to listeners: to cultivate open lines of communication in their own lives, aiming to understand different perspectives and support loved ones through life's changes.   Quotes "It's taken me years to understand the art of communication or to try to begin to understand that our words do matter. What we say to people does stick with them." (02:13 | Scott Asmar)  "Communication does break down at certain points. It breaks down with the spouse, it breaks down with friendships, it breaks down in acquaintances, and especially it breaks down in children. And it takes a lot to keep it going, and it takes a lot to recognize it." (03:31 | Scott Asmar)  "I started cleaning up my act and my selfishness that I was going through and started to see that we needed to sit down and talk with one another, not argue, not blame, not point fingers, but just openly communicate about our own thoughts and what was going on with us. With outside help, we managed to slowly climb back. And we're still working on communicating at a better level each time." (05:19 | Scott Asmar) "I've definitely realized how important communication is, not just within the family, but also within friendships and relationships as you get older and in the workplace as well, communicating with co-workers and your superiors. It's really the foundation of a successful relationship. (08:00 | Alexander Asmar)   Links Connect with Scott Asmar: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottasmar5/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

The secret to a fulfilling life is often found in our relationships with those we hold dear. Scott Asmar and his better half, Jane, explore this statement through a candid discussion about the essence of connections. In this episode, they share their journey into how they've navigated their own relationship hurdles.   Jane recounted a conversation with her sister, who mentioned a doctor's tip about the importance of making six meaningful connections a month. This led to a conversation about how making connections with friends, family, or even helping out in charity work significantly affects our happiness, particularly in our middle years.   Through stories of tighter bonds and reflections on purposeful engagement, Scott and Jane unpack the layers of communication and mutual support that form the foundation of any strong relationship. The couple tackles the challenges and triumphs of keeping connections alive, whether with loved ones or the wider community and they stress the importance of setting healthy boundaries and consciously choosing positivity in our interactions.   Faith plays a central role in the conversation, shedding light on how shared beliefs and practices can enrich a relationship. The couple encourages us to keep our relationships front and center, to find the joy in every interaction, and to never underestimate the power of reaching out and truly connecting.   Quotes “As human beings, we are made to have relationships. We are made to be with people. That's why God created man. That's why he created woman to be the helper, to be the companion, to be the partner. And God doesn't want us here by ourselves. So that's why it's so important to foster your relationships.” (06:18 | Jane Asmar)  “What starts to become important, I realize, are my friendships, our marriage, focusing back on people because it's people who make us feel fulfilled, contented, joyful. [With] somebody to talk to, to listen to, I think those things help you grow.” (08:16 | Jane Asmar) "You need, in your life, six connections every month, whether that's with friends, your spouse, or even charity work. Whatever it is, you have to make these six connections." (09:44 | Jane Asmar)  "My life is just basically work, come home, grocery store, go to dinner, be with my family. And I started thinking about that. I said, am I being intentional with my friendships? And that's a keyword, “intentional.” Am I making the effort? Am I being a good friend? And what am I bringing to the table? How can I help serve them?" (10:00 | Jane Asmar) "Boundaries are very important. I have learned about boundaries later in life, as opposed to early in life. I didn't really understand keeping those boundaries or building those boundaries. It's not a negative. It's just making sure that you are protected as a person and setting the limits to what you can and cannot do." (21:24 | Scott Asmar) "We truly want our listeners to know that you're not alone. You don't have to be alone and connections and relationships are important." (24:14 | Scott Asmar)   Links Connect with Scott Asmar: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottasmar5/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

How can we maintain relationships and cultivate a sense of gratitude particularly as we navigate midlife? Drawing from his own 26 years of marriage, host Scott Asmar talks about the ups and downs of relationships and the hard work they require to thrive.   Scott gets real about what keeps a relationship going. He shares a personal tip that's changed the way he sees his loved ones: writing down the good stuff about them in a journal. It's a simple strategy, focusing on the positives, which has helped him appreciate his wife and friends more.   Scott's stories and tips provide a fresh perspective on strengthening bonds with those around you. He also emphasizes our need for connection and a sense of community. He encourages listeners to try out the journal idea for themselves so they can remember why they value their close relationships. It's a practical step toward bringing back that initial excitement and cultivating gratitude in your life.    Quotes: “Those attributes, those commitments and follow through and work and dedication can be used in any type of relationship, any type of friendship. Everything takes dedication, everything takes commitment, everything takes follow-through, everything takes work. And even as we do with our homes, with our bodies, with our cars, the upkeep of all of that to maintain its proper use to maintain its full capacity. Same thing with a relationship. We need to put that into our relationships in order for them to work and for them to to get the most out of who we choose to be with. If we don't, we run the risk of decaying these relationships.” (02:53 | Scott Asmar) “When we're in the middle of our life and there's so much stimuli around us and there's so many things that consume us in terms of children or family or aging parents, that we need to refocus. And it is important to have these connections and it is important to have the strong connection with your spouse. or your significant other, because those are the backbones. Those are what help you. The friendships that we have are also important too. (06:07 | Scott Asmar) “Connecting with people is important to our psyche. Everybody has a sense of wanting to belong. Everybody has a sense of wanting to be a part of something at any age.” (06:42 | Scott Asmar)  “The key to people is the connection and being a part of something. And everybody longs for that at no matter what age. I've seen it in older people and in young people. And you can see it on the playground of a school. Just that connection and being a part of something really helps you mentally to grow and to mature and to fulfill that need.” (07:31 | Scott Asmar) “I encourage you to start the journal. And to write down the list of things, starting with your spouse, significant other, what drew you to them. List every positive aspect of them. Don't do a positive and negative, only positives. And read that, read that once a week, read that once a month to refresh your memory of why you're with this person. And branch out to the friendships. Why are you with these core friends? What drew you together? You'll see that it'll be very enlightening and it'll take you back to that time of the quote unquote honeymoon stage. (08:15 | Scott Asmar)    Links Connect with Scott Asmar: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottasmar5/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

One key takeaway from this episode is the importance of self-reflection. As we journey through midlife, Scott encourages listeners to ask themselves important questions: Are my needs being met? Is there a balance between work and family? Am I lonely? By taking the time to check in with ourselves, we can identify areas for growth and make positive changes.   Scott also emphasizes the power of consistency, persistence, and faith. These three ingredients can yield remarkable results in any aspect of life. Whether it's losing weight, excelling in your career, or fostering stronger relationships, being consistent and persistent is key. And don't forget to rely on your faith, whatever it may be, to guide you through life's trials and tribulations.   But perhaps the most valuable lesson from this episode is the importance of time. Scott reminds us that time is not on our side, and we must take control of it. Whether it's making time for our children, our spouses, or ourselves, carving out moments of connection and presence can have a profound impact on our lives.   Midlife is definitely a time of reflection and, sometimes, reframing. But it's also a chance to build on the wisdom we've accumulated to evolve in a positive way. Take Scott’s advice and “See everything.”   Quotes: “I usually ask myself a few specific questions. Are my needs being met? You know, is there something lacking that I need to be fulfilled within the day, within the week, within the month? Pick a self-check on that and identify if there's something there that's not quite right within you.” (2:51 | Scott Asmar) “Inconsistency fosters insecurity, and consistency equals security.” (6:36 | Scott Asmar)  “Take time back. It's not going to come back on its own. What was yesterday is yesterday. What was an hour ago was an hour ago and it's not going to reset itself. Only option is to move forward, but stop and take the time back. Don't let it control you. You control the time.” (8:24 | Scott Asmar)    Links Connect with Scott Asmar: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottasmar5/     Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Looking to beat those post-holiday blues? Join Scott Asmar, the man and everything in between, as he delves into the challenges and triumphs of midlife. In this episode, Scott explores the importance of self-reflection and setting goals to navigate through this stage of life. He shares his own accomplishments, from getting signed by an agent to improving his eating habits, and emphasizes the power of self-affirmation. Scott reminds us that as our tastes and preferences change, it's crucial to let go of what no longer serves us and embrace new experiences. By doing regular self-checks, we can avoid the dreaded midlife crisis and thrive in this new season. So, take a moment for yourself, carve out that precious alone time, and discover how to renew and redefine your life. Join Scott Asmar, the man and everything in between, and unlock the secrets to a fulfilling midlife journey.   Quotes: “When I think about the spring or think about what accomplishments I want to accomplish, I'd like to take the time with myself. It's actually carving out the 20, 30 minutes a week and really enjoy being with who you are and understanding who you are and deciphering what it is these next few months that you would like to accomplish. It's the alone time and everyone needs it.” (2:36 | Scott Asmar) “It is important to understand that when we get to midlife, that things do change. That once our likes and our dislikes, once the things that we liked before, we seem not to like them anymore, our tastes have changed. And it's important to get in tune with that and to understand that and to kind of let go of what we don't need so that we're able to move forward.” (6:27 | Scott Asmar) “I believe that it's important to do these self-checks, especially at the first of the years, because it will help us navigate through the rest of the year.”  (7:44 | Scott Asmar)  “There is something that goes on with the man in midlife. And it comes out in many different ways. But I believe, looking back now, that doing the self-checks and understanding how our dynamics, how our likes and dislikes change, helps us maneuver through that midlife crisis, as they say. And if we don't start understanding who we are in terms of this point in our life, we start to deteriorate.” (8:16 | Scott Asmar)    Links Connect with Scott Asmar: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottasmar5/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm