

Truthache
Truthache
The Podcast in The Room
On Truthache, we talk about the elephant in the room, because we were all thinking it anyway. Join Michael and Daniel as we discuss culture, life, and the issues that matter to us all.
Watch on YouTube and Spotify. Listen everywhere.
On Truthache, we talk about the elephant in the room, because we were all thinking it anyway. Join Michael and Daniel as we discuss culture, life, and the issues that matter to us all.
Watch on YouTube and Spotify. Listen everywhere.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 13, 2025 • 59min
Slow Food in a Fast World – Tall Dark and Handsome
Join us in this episode as we delve into personal anecdotes and discussions centered around the concepts of slow food and mindful living. We recount stories of memorable meals, both at home and in restaurants, and explore how the pace of life affects our enjoyment and relationships. From the importance of family traditions to the pitfalls of technology and instant gratification, we share insights and tips on how to bring more intention and joy into everyday life through cooking and communal dining. Whether you're a seasoned chef, a casual cook, or someone looking to enhance your quality of life, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on the true meaning of nourishment and connection.
If you like what you hear, visit us at https://truthachepodcast.com or subscribe to "Truthache: The Podcast in the Room" on your favorite podcast platform.
00:00 Birthday at the Strip Club
00:49 The Joy of Slow Cooking
01:57 Dining Out vs. Eating In
03:41 The Art of Home Cooking
09:06 The Impact of Social Media on Eating Habits
14:30 The Slow Food Movement
17:22 The Attention Economy
29:17 Debating the Kids' Menu
30:27 Baby Food and Disposable Diapers
31:02 The Impact of Kids' Menus on Eating Habits
32:03 Personal Stories and Food Preferences
38:16 The Importance of Family Meals
50:37 Thanksgiving and the Joy of Cooking
55:13 The Therapeutic Value of Cooking

Aug 6, 2025 • 1h 12min
Why Is Everybody So Sensitive? – Fabian Rodriguez
Fabian returns because, to him, it's more than a feeling...
Join Daniel Herndon, Michael Salemi, and Aaron Douglas as they dive into an engaging conversation with guest Fabian Rodriguez, a celebrated podcaster from Indianapolis. In this episode, Fabian shares his journey from Culver Military Academy to starting a successful podcast, 'Drink Culture', and the trials and triumphs of growing it amidst evolving social media landscapes. They explore the significance of passion behind projects, the nuances of marketing, and the societal pressures of identity politics. With doses of humor and candid insights, the episode is a blend of personal anecdotes, professional advice, and thought-provoking discussions on why everyone seems to have a podcast today and the cost of caring too much about public opinions.
Learn more about Fabian Rodriguez, podcasting and pickleball at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jfrodriguez1/
If you like what you hear, visit us at https://truthachepodcast.com or subscribe to "Truthache: The Podcast in the Room" on your favorite podcast platform.
00:00 Introduction and Host Banter
00:50 Guest Introduction: Fabian Rodriguez
02:12 Fabian's Journey: From Boarding School to Music
03:21 Transition to Podcasting and Business Ventures
06:31 The Rise and Fall of Drink Culture Podcast
12:06 Current Ventures and Pickleball Passion
17:48 The Viability of Podcasting for Businesses
32:54 The Importance of Starting with a Clear Vision
33:11 Adapting and Changing Course
34:12 Challenges in Measuring Marketing Success
36:39 The Role of Passion in Business
39:00 The Creative Side of Entrepreneurship
41:10 The Struggle of Identity and Purpose
41:44 The Pickleball Passion
43:14 The Sensitivity of Modern Culture
50:19 The Impact of Social Media on Opinions
01:00:08 The Controversy of American Eagle's Marketing
01:08:12 The Importance of Disconnecting
01:10:51 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Jul 30, 2025 • 1h 33min
The End of Reality – With Robby Slaughter
In this episode of Truthache, hosts Michael Salemi, Daniel Herndon, and Aaron Douglas dive deep with guest Robby Slaughter, a business developer at Security Force, prolific author, and former congressional candidate. The conversation kicks off with hilarious family anecdotes and segues into Robby's expertise on time management, email overload, and his books like "The New Science of Time Management." But the real meat hits when they tackle "The End of Reality," exploring how AI-generated content, media manipulation, and societal denialism are eroding trust in everything from news to personal experiences, forcing us to rethink what we believe and why.
Have you ever wondered if that heartfelt handwritten card from a friend is just AI-forged bullshit? What does it take to distinguish genuine reality from deepfakes when even hotel chatbots sound convincingly human? Can skepticism save us from delusion, or does it just fuel more cynicism in a world where recycling feels virtuous but barely scratches the environmental surface? And how do we rebuild trust when institutions like the media or science get called out for their flaws? The episode wraps with a humorous nod to Robby's security gig—turns out, even his office door sparked a debate on whether it's "secure" enough, proving nothing's sacred in this unraveling world.
Learn more about Robby Slaughter and Security Force at https://www.linkedin.com/in/robbyslaughter/.
If you like what you hear, visit us at https://truthachepodcast.com or subscribe to "Truthache: The Podcast in the Room" on your favorite podcast platform.

Jul 2, 2025 • 1h 17min
How To Have A Healthy Lifestyle – Tall, Dark & Handsome
In this episode, the host delves into diverse aspects of a healthy lifestyle, covering everything from concerns about alcohol and sugar in diets to the importance of maintaining healthy relationships. Conversations take a deep dive into understanding how public figures like Brad Pitt have navigated personal trials and sobriety. The discussion introduces the concept of healthy stress, its impacts, and its beneficial balance in daily life. Furthermore, the significance of leisure and creativity in maintaining a balanced life is highlighted. Anecdotes about personal experiences and insights provide a comprehensive look into what it truly means to lead a healthy lifestyle.
Your Hosts
Michael Salemi of Colored Threads
Daniel Herndon of HRNDN Brand Agency
Aaron Douglas of Auspicious
00:00 Dog Worries and Near-Death Experience
00:24 Debating Sugar Alcohol and FDA Guidelines
00:57 Brad Pitt's Sobriety Journey
03:31 Healthy Lifestyles: Diet, Exercise, and Friends
05:46 Navigating Food Myths and Government Influence
09:17 Personal Health Routines and Nutrition
15:15 Stress Management and Goal Setting
19:28 Entrepreneurial Challenges and Resilience
31:56 Public Failure and Personal Growth
37:36 Understanding Arousal and Performance
38:02 Therapist Insights on Stress
38:23 Balancing Stress and Motivation
38:37 Finding the Sweet Spot in Business
38:52 Personal Experiences with Focus and Stress
40:48 The Creative Process and Writing
53:20 Healthy Relationships and Friendships
01:06:49 The Importance of Leisure
01:11:01 Work-Life Balance and Cultural Perspectives
01:16:25 Concluding Thoughts on Work and Leisure

Jun 25, 2025 • 1h 36min
How Do You Find Job Security? – Allison Nordenbrock Brown
In this episode, hosts Aaron, Daniel, and Michael engage in an insightful conversation with marketer Allison Nordenbrock Brown. The talk begins with the hosts sharing their excitement about recording in a professional studio, comparing the experience to hitting the big time. Allison discusses her background in marketing, her experience working with tech startups, and her journey from humble beginnings to owning her own company, Norden Marketing. Key topics include the importance of validating ideas, the impact of venture capital, myths about job security, and how Allison helps founders navigate the challenges of growing their businesses. The episode highlights the nuanced dynamics of working with clients, balancing honesty with empathy, and the often underappreciated complexity of running a successful marketing firm. The conversation also delves into the unsexy aspects of entrepreneurship, a topic Allison explores in her own podcast, 'Unhired.'
Your Hosts
Michael Salemi of Colored Threads
Daniel Herndon of HRNDN Brand Agency
Aaron Douglas of Auspicious
00:00 Welcome and Studio Vibes
01:08 Introducing Our Guest: Allison Norden Brock Brown
03:19 Allison's Journey into Marketing
09:49 Entrepreneurial Spirit from a Young Age
14:35 Challenges and Successes in Marketing
20:31 Client Relationships and Business Philosophy
29:18 The Importance of Doing the Right Thing
42:15 Future Goals and Reflections
46:51 Unique Pricing Model: JUULs of Marketing Energy
47:40 Challenges of Hourly Rates and Job Security
50:09 Marketing Consultant Rates and Value
51:37 The Unsexy Side of Entrepreneurship
55:38 The Importance of Validation in Business
01:03:38 Navigating Venture Capital
01:18:24 Balancing Founder Roles and Business Growth
01:34:01 Concluding Thoughts and Podcast Promotion

Jun 18, 2025 • 1h 25min
What Is Money? – Kevin Dolan
In this engaging episode, Kevin Dolan, a seasoned financial advisor, shares his personal insights and professional wisdom on wealth creation, financial planning, and managing entrepreneurship. The conversation delves into personal anecdotes, like unexpected purchases and business ventures, and covers broader financial principles such as the importance of systematic savings, diversification, and the emotional aspects of money management. Kevin also discusses the challenges faced by different generations, the changing nature of the middle class, and the psychological impact of financial scarcity. This episode offers a blend of practical advice, humor, and reflection on how to make informed financial decisions and build lasting wealth.
Your Hosts:
Michael Salemi of Colored Threads
Daniel Herndon of HRNDN Brand Agency
Aaron Douglas of Auspicious
00:00 Struggling with Temptation
00:42 Introducing Kevin Dolan
01:52 Kevin's Spontaneous Condo Purchase
02:40 Life as a Bar Owner
10:56 Kevin's Daughter and Her Achievements
11:58 Understanding Wealth and Financial Advice
26:59 Starting a Comic Book Store
28:27 Penny Stock Adventures
30:48 Saving vs. Investing
35:35 Retirement Strategies
40:53 Financial Advice for Young Adults
54:59 Understanding Middle-Class Perceptions
56:03 Defining Wealth Percentiles
58:09 Global Wealth Comparisons
01:00:12 Financial Literacy and Personal Stories
01:06:23 The Importance of Financial Planning
01:14:49 The Role of Financial Advisors
01:24:08 Final Thoughts and Advice

Jun 11, 2025 • 1h 12min
How Do You Live Your Best Life? – Robert Bonjour
Robert Bonjour joins the conversation to delve into the concept of the 'good life,' examining the balance between career success, financial security, and personal fulfillment. They share personal anecdotes about the importance of autonomy, mastery, and purpose in their professional lives. The discussion explores both the tangible and intangible elements that contribute to a 'good life,' such as solid relationships, job satisfaction, and the freedom to make meaningful choices. The episode concludes with reflections on what truly matters and how recognizing the good in one's current life can be the key to lasting happiness.
Your Hosts:
Michael Salemi of Colored Threads
Daniel Herndon of HRNDN Brand Agency
Aaron Douglas of Auspicious
00:00 Kaya's Dilemma: Moving Out and Job Struggles
00:58 Nostalgic Memories: The Salami Household
01:53 Introducing Robert Bonjour: A Legacy in Printing
04:28 Family Business Dynamics: Challenges and Growth
08:07 The Good Life: Mastery, Autonomy, and Purpose
36:59 Crediting Dan Pink and the Importance of Purpose
38:40 Living the Good Life: Daily Reminders and Gratitude
39:45 Financial Goals and Life Reflections
41:24 Balancing Work, Creativity, and Happiness
43:48 Redefining Success: Personal Stories and Insights
46:33 The Role of Money in Achieving the Good Life
49:59 Aspirations and Unfinished Business
01:03:25 Financial Security and the Pursuit of Liberty
01:11:32 Concluding Thoughts on the Good Life

Jun 4, 2025 • 1h 27min
Is Cheating The New Normal?
In this conversation, Aaron, Michael, and Daniel delve into the nuances of cheating in contemporary society, drawing from personal stories, high-profile examples, and philosophical reflections. They discuss the prevalence and acceptance of cheating in various contexts, from sports to politics. The trio also explores how personal and societal standards of morality influence behavior, using references to faith, literature, and notable personalities like Tim Tebow and Lance Armstrong. The conversation highlights the tension between ethical ideals and practical realities, offering insights into how individuals can navigate moral choices in a complex world.
Your Hosts:
Michael Salemi of Colored Threads
Daniel Herndon of HRNDN Brand Agency
Aaron Douglas of Auspicious
00:00 Introduction and Banter
00:25 The Rabbit Incident
01:38 Lawnmower Talk
01:51 Discussion on Musk and Government Spending
06:46 IndyCar Cheating Scandal
11:49 Ethics of Cheating in Sports
14:46 Legal and Moral Implications of Cheating
19:35 Personal Anecdotes on Cheating
43:32 Pushing the Limits: Rules and Social Norms
44:08 The Prevalence of Lying in Society
45:14 Political Deception: The Case of George Santos
48:00 The Social Acceptance of Cheating
53:38 Moral Frameworks and Personal Integrity
01:05:28 Business Ethics and Personal Relationships
01:06:51 The Role of Faith and Miracles
01:24:58 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

May 28, 2025 • 1h 47min
Can You Choose To Believe? – Jon Arnold
In this thought-provoking conversation, our hosts, joined by Jon Arnold, embark on an intricate conversation about how to navigate the loss of faith. They explore the reasons behind leaving the church, deep reflections on family and faith, and the emotional journey of deconversion. Key questions are posed, such as the necessity of attending church to sustain faith, the impact of religious rituals, and the struggle with belief. The conversation highlights the shared experiences of the hosts and their guest, delving into topics like the role of religion in creating community, the challenges posed by religious scandals, and the quest for truth. This episode not only examines the personal dilemmas faced by those questioning their faith but also touches on the broader implications of religious belief in creating a sense of belonging and shaping behaviors. Tune in for a candid and multifaceted dialogue about one of society's most debated subjects.
Learn More about Jon Arnold here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanmarnold
Your Hosts:
Michael Salemi of Colored Threads
Daniel Herndon of HRNDN Brand Agency
Aaron Douglas of Auspicious
00:00 Dumb Jokes
00:30 Awesome Music
00:44 Discussing Book Reviews
02:41 Introducing the Guest
04:42 Jon's Journey and Deconversion
06:51 Philosophical Discussions on Faith and Truth
13:14 Debating the Nature of Faith
31:11 The Benefits of Faith and Community
34:38 Theological Curiosity: What If God Touched You?
35:41 Defining God: Perspectives and Challenges
37:36 Sufficient Evidence: What Would Convince You?
46:49 Unconditional Love: Parental and Divine
54:31 Faith and Rationalization: Personal Beliefs
01:07:15 Religion vs. Faith: Societal and Personal Impacts
01:09:00 Questioning Faith and Church Hypocrisy
01:11:26 The Role of Belonging in Faith
01:14:23 Personal Journey Away from Church
01:20:18 Experiencing a Megachurch
01:27:57 The Five Stages of Losing Faith
01:41:29 The Persistence of Religion
01:44:12 Final Thoughts on Faith and Community

May 21, 2025 • 1h 15min
Is College a Must or a Money Bonfire? – Jennifer Denney
Join us as we sit down with Jennifer Denney, a marketing expert from Indianapolis, Indiana, to discuss her journey and expertise. With humor and insight, we delve into the education system, the real value of college degrees, and the roadblocks they can sometimes present. Jennifer shares personal anecdotes from managing a successful marketing company to doing brain surgery on rats. We also touch on the importance of adaptability in today's fast-changing job market and whether the fun lies in building a business or running it. If you've ever questioned the true worth of a college education or are interested in the dynamics of building a successful career, this episode is for you.
Learn More about Jennifer Denney here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferdenney
Your Hosts:
Michael Salemi of Colored Threads
Daniel Herndon of HRNDN Brand Agency
Aaron Douglas of Auspicious


