Paddy Wagon Podcast
Welcome aboard the "Paddy Wagon", where the laughter flows as freely as the whiskey! Join Mike, on a rollicking ride through the spirited world of making new friends, humor, and his love for the golden elixir – whiskey.
Join Gecko, your favorite Irish-American as he enjoys a glass of whiskey and is joined by interesting guests from all over to share their stories and a drink.
Episodes
7 days ago
7 days ago
Most people see fighting and brewing beer as worlds apart—until now. Michael Sutherland, a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioner, former crab boat worker, brewmaster, and host of Fighters Drinking Coffee, proves that discipline, patience, and relentless practice create a surprising overlap between these intense worlds.
Discover how Michael’s unconventional journey from crab fishing in Chesapeake Bay to going pro in Jiu Jitsu reveals the importance of embracing varied paths—and the lesson that success often comes from saying “yes” to every opportunity. He shares behind-the-scenes stories from UFC-style grappling, the demanding process of brewing award-winning beers, and the brutal reality of combat sports—plus, the secrets behind scoring in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and avoiding the dreaded guillotine choke.
You'll learn why mastery is a marathon, not a sprint, and how the mindset of constantly striving for improvement can fuel every aspect of your life—whether you're fighting in the ring or crafting the perfect brew. For anyone feeling stuck in routine or craving the thrill of pursuit, this episode is a masterclass in pushing limits, finding purpose in chaos, and blending passions into a life well-lived.
Perfect for fighters, entrepreneurs, and curious minds alike—if you believe the best growth comes from daring to explore the unexpected, this episode is your next move. Get inspired by a true jack-of-many-trades who’s living proof that saying “yes” often leads to the most rewarding victories.
Tune in now and learn how to balance ambition, creativity, and discipline—because life's greatest victories come from the most unlikely combinations.
Be sure to check out Fighters Drinking Coffee, wherever you listen to your favorite shows and don't forget to follow these links:
https://www.instagram.com/fightersdrinkingcoffee/
https://www.instagram.com/getsudsy/
https://www.instagram.com/cruzcombat/
Episode Sponsors:
Dan’s Propane
Experience the difference that a reliable and trustworthy propane company can provide. Call Dan today at (308) 530-0211 to schedule your propane delivery.
Show Mike some support by checking out https://cruzcmbt.com/ and using code GETSUDSY at checkout
Intro/Outro Music Provided by:
https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/achaidh-cheide
https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/celtic-impulse
Be sure to follow the Paddy Wagon on IG @Paddywagonpod and check us out at https://paddywagonpodcast.com or https://linktr.ee/paddywagonpodcast
Paddy Wagon Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, iHeart Radio and all your other favorite platforms
If you’d like to submit questions, comments, hot takes or just have me respond to some of your random thoughts with some random thoughts of my own…. Please be sure to leave us a message at: https://whatayarn.com/paddywagonpodcast and you’ll be featured on a future episode.
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
In this episode of the Paddy Wagon , Mike welcomes Melissa Sifjardóttir, founder and creator of Sif Sniffs, who shares her unique journey through the world of feederism, weight gain, and personal transformation. Melissa recounts her experiences starting from her early fascination with fat fashion and the fetish community, where she reached a peak weight of 540 pounds. She discusses the complexities of her relationships within the feederism community, the challenges of body image, and the societal perceptions surrounding weight. As the conversation unfolds, Melissa also touches on her transition to becoming a fitness instructor and her ongoing journey of self-acceptance and health, including her recent weight loss and the impact of her growth hormone issues on her body. Melissa Sifjardóttir also shares her stories from being a fitness instructor to navigating the complexities of health issues and ultimately finding her passion in perfumery. She discusses her struggles with medical professionals who dismissed her concerns about growth hormone levels, leading to a significant weight loss after finally receiving the right diagnosis. Melissa also delves into her experiences during the pandemic, including her involvement in a cult-like group focused on Norse magic and how it influenced her life choices. The conversation highlights the importance of community, personal growth, and the challenges of transitioning from one career to another, especially in the creative field of fragrance-making. You won't want to miss this one, folks!!
Episode Sponsors:
https://www.instagram.com/sifsniffs/
https://www.instagram.com/sillageandsorcery/
https://www.sillageandsorcery.com/
Intro/Outro Music Provided by:
https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/achaidh-cheide
https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/celtic-impulse
Be sure to follow the Paddy Wagon on IG @Paddywagonpod and check us out at https://paddywagonpodcast.com or https://linktr.ee/paddywagonpodcast
Paddy Wagon Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, iHeart Radio and all your other favorite platforms
If you’d like to submit questions, comments, hot takes or just have me respond to some of your random thoughts with some random thoughts of my own…. Please be sure to leave us a message at: https://whatayarn.com/paddywagonpodcast and you’ll be featured on a future episode.
Wednesday Jan 07, 2026
Wednesday Jan 07, 2026
Mike sits down with... Well... Mike sits down with no one. In this solo episode of the Paddy Wagon Podcast, Mike shares personal updates, reflections on the Pittsburgh Steelers and their mediocre ways, humorous stories from sporting events, drunken a**holes and insights into family life. He discusses the challenges of parenting, a comical DoorDash delivery experience, and the world of competitive eating records. The episode also features a few listener questions that lead to discussions about adulthood, hobbies, and the realities of podcasting. Mike wraps up with thoughts on life lessons and future plans for the podcast. Happy 2026 everyone!!
Episode Sponsors:
Dan’s Propane
Experience the difference that a reliable and trustworthy propane company can provide. Call Dan today at (308) 530-0211 to schedule your propane delivery.
Intro/Outro Music Provided by:
https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/achaidh-cheide
https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/celtic-impulse
Be sure to follow the Paddy Wagon on IG @Paddywagonpod and check us out at https://paddywagonpodcast.com or https://linktr.ee/paddywagonpodcast
Paddy Wagon Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, iHeart Radio and all your other favorite platforms
If you’d like to submit questions, comments, hot takes or just have me respond to some of your random thoughts with some random thoughts of my own…. Please be sure to leave us a message at: https://whatayarn.com/paddywagonpodcast and you’ll be featured on a future episode.
Wednesday Dec 24, 2025
Wednesday Dec 24, 2025
Do you clean your cast iron with soap? What are your thoughts about daylight savings? Ever wonder what Mike thinks of those awful pay-it-forward lines at Starbucks? On today's episode of The Paddy Wagon, Mike welcomes back Deanna to have some fun with answering listener's messages! The Paddy Wagon teamed up with the folks from Whatayarn so that some of our most loyal fans can send in their burning questions. While we expected all of the callers to be goofy, we actually got some really great questions that lead to some great convo on a variety of topics. Be sure to tune in and hear everything from ashy whites to Diddy the mouthbreathing pervert and bringing it on home with a lighthearted conversation about Deanna's balloon knot and how she's never laid eyes on it.
Check out deanna at https://www.instagram.com/deanna_onthemic/
Episode Sponsors:
Dan’s Propane
Experience the difference that a reliable and trustworthy propane company can provide. Call Dan today at (308) 530-0211 to schedule your propane delivery.
Intro/Outro Music Provided by:
https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/achaidh-cheide
https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/celtic-impulse
Be sure to follow the Paddy Wagon on IG @Paddywagonpod and check us out at https://paddywagonpodcast.com or https://linktr.ee/paddywagonpodcast
Paddy Wagon Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, iHeart Radio and all your other favorite platforms
If you’d like to submit questions, comments, hot takes or just have me respond to some of your random thoughts with some random thoughts of my own…. Please be sure to leave us a message at: https://whatayarn.com/paddywagonpodcast and you’ll be featured on a future episode.
Wednesday Dec 10, 2025
Wednesday Dec 10, 2025
In this episode of The Paddy Wagon Podcast, Mike sits down with author Lenore Focht to talk about her incredible journey from city life in Regina (not to be confused with Idiot Mike's fictional "Ra-Geena" location) to running a ranch in rural Saskatchewan. Lenore opens up about what it’s really like to leave the city behind and embrace ranch life — from unexpected wildlife encounters to the everyday realities of teaching, parenting, and marriage.
We also dive into her new memoir and the powerful stories behind it, including candid conversations about mental health, grief, and the ups and downs of family life. With plenty of humor and heart, Lenore shares how writing became a form of healing and why being honest and vulnerable in storytelling matters. This episode is full of real-life lessons, laughs, and inspiration for anyone going through big life changes or looking for relatable, uplifting stories.
Be sure to check out and follow Lenore's socials and grab a copy of her book!!! You won't regret it!
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579246496050
https://www.instagram.com/lfocht_authorsk/
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/small-town-chaos-l-focht/1147805964?ean=9781069485403
Episode Sponsors:
Mometu
Looking for your next movie, documentary or TV show to binge? Tired of seeing the same 20 movies recommended over and over? Look no further than Mometu!! Great content isn’t reserved for 2 or 3 bigger streaming services we’ve all used and it doesn’t always come in the form of a 100 million dollar budget. Mometu helps you discover often under-served content. Some of the best films you’ve never heard of are out there waiting to be enjoyed. Don’t let the algorithms tell you what’s up next. Mometu has over 10,000 hand-curated titles…. All free… All the time! Put an end to those subscription services today. The Mometu app is available for phones, smart TVs and can also be streamed over the web.
Intro/Outro Music Provided by:
https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/achaidh-cheide
https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/celtic-impulse
Be sure to follow the Paddy Wagon on IG @Paddywagonpod and check us out at https://paddywagonpodcast.com or https://linktr.ee/paddywagonpodcast
Paddy Wagon Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, iHeart Radio and all your other favorite platforms
If you’d like to submit questions, comments, hot takes or just have me respond to some of your random thoughts with some random thoughts of my own…. Please be sure to leave us a message at: https://whatayarn.com/paddywagonpodcast and you’ll be featured on a future episode.
Wednesday Nov 26, 2025
Wednesday Nov 26, 2025
In this episode of The Paddy Wagon Podcast, Mike sits down with Erika Rawes—founder of the ASSFACE Diet and the oldest oldest contestant ever to win, Miss Wake County USA in 2024 at the age of 42—for a raw, relatable, and motivating conversation about what it really means to feel “stuck.”
Erika opens up about redefining limits, breaking stereotypes, and proving that it's never too late to rewrite your story. Together, Mike and Erika explore the idea that no one is ever truly stuck—whether it’s in a job, a body, a mindset, or a life chapter that no longer fits. They dive into how embracing your genuine emotions—anger, frustration, negativity, or optimism—can become fuel for transformation.
Erika shares her unapologetically authentic approach to personal growth, challenging societal expectations and encouraging listeners to trust their instincts, honor their individuality, and take bold action.
If you’ve ever felt trapped, uninspired, or held back by circumstances, this episode delivers empowering insights, real-world motivation, and actionable strategies to help you break free and take control of your life—one honest step at a time.
Perfect for anyone searching for inspiration, mindset shifts, or self-improvement tools, this is a must-listen conversation about resilience, reinvention, and doing life your way.
For more information on how you can become the best version of yourself, please check out https://www.assfacediet.com/ and be sure to follow Erika on IG @assfacediet
Episode Sponsors:
Somatic Therapy NYC
https://somatictherapybrooklyn.com/
IG: @somatictherapyny
Finding a qualified somatic practitioner near NYC can be essential for addressing your mental, emotional, and physical well-being in a holistic approach that honors the interconnectedness of the mind and body. At Somatic Therapy NYC Andria Lea is conveniently located in Midtown Manhattan and offers in-person sessions for those seeking hands-on therapy.
Whether you're located in New York City or beyond, Andria Lea also offers the convenience and ease of remote sessions so support is available where and how works best for you.
When searching for qualified Somatic Therapists near NYC, it's essential to find professionals who are experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable. Andria has undergone extensive training specializing in various somatic modalities to help you achieve your therapeutic goals and has honed her skills through over a decade meeting minds and touching hearts and bodies.
If you're ready to experience the transformative power of somatic therapy, schedule a consultation for free today to explore if this blended approach and if Andria Lea is a good fit for you.
Intro/Outro Music Provided by:
https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/achaidh-cheide
https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/celtic-impulse
Be sure to follow the Paddy Wagon on IG @Paddywagonpod and check us out at https://paddywagonpodcast.com or https://linktr.ee/paddywagonpodcast
Paddy Wagon Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, iHeart Radio and all your other favorite platforms
If you’d like to submit questions, comments, hot takes or just have me respond to some of your random thoughts with some random thoughts of my own…. Please be sure to leave us a message at: https://whatayarn.com/paddywagonpodcast and you’ll be featured on a future episode.
Wednesday Nov 12, 2025
Wednesday Nov 12, 2025
In this episode of The Paddy Wagon Podcast, host Mike O’Brien sits down with sommelier and podcast host, Sage Toomey for an engaging conversation about the world of wine, tasting techniques, and the stories behind every bottle. They dive into how wine regions, grape varieties, and pairing principles shape the flavors we love. Sage opens up about her path from passionate wine lover to professional sommelier, sharing insider tips on choosing the right wine, understanding terroir, and the unexpected drama of the wine industry. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, casual drinker, or just curious about the culture of wine, this episode is a perfect pour of insight and entertainment.
Be sure to check out Sage:
@sage_toomey (TikTok and Instagram)
https://audioboom.com/channels/5150980-secret-lives-of-sommeliers
Episode Sponsors:
Mortal Triumph
Mortal Triumph was built on sacrifice. it honors the Armed Forces members who gave everything…. The ones who never made it home. Their legacy isn’t just a memory; it’s a standard. Carry their names forward with actions… Not words. Be sure to use PADDYWAGON10 at checkout for 10% off your purchase. We promise… It will be the most comfortable shirt you ever wear!
Intro/Outro Music Provided by:
https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/achaidh-cheide
https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/celtic-impulse
Be sure to follow the Paddy Wagon on IG @Paddywagonpod and check us out at https://paddywagonpodcast.com or https://linktr.ee/paddywagonpodcast
Paddy Wagon Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, iHeart Radio and all your other favorite platforms
If you’d like to submit questions, comments, hot takes or just have me respond to some of your random thoughts with some random thoughts of my own…. Please be sure to leave us a message at: https://whatayarn.com/paddywagonpodcast and you’ll be featured on a future episode.
Wednesday Oct 29, 2025
Wednesday Oct 29, 2025
Welcome to this weeks episode of the Paddy Wagon. We took our show on the road and recorded live, at Pittsburgh's newest and greatest establishment... Pub 1019. The crowd was electric and the drinks were great.
It was a long time coming, but I was finally joined by none other than the only woman crazy enough to want to spend the rest of her life with me... my beautiful wife, Katie. (in fairness, she only has to spend the rest of MY LIFE with me. Fair game after that, fellas)
We sit down for a great conversation that ranges from raising kids to planning birthday parties and our own little running quote list to me potentially performing mouth services on another man in a minivan.
Be sure to tune in and hear from the woman who keeps me grounded, supports me through everything and must have one sick sense of humor to put up with me! There's no one better, folks!
Episode Sponsors:
Mometu
Looking for your next movie, documentary or TV show to binge? Tired of seeing the same 20 movies recommended over and over? Look no further than Mometu!! Great content isn’t reserved for 2 or 3 bigger streaming services we’ve all used and it doesn’t always come in the form of a 100 million dollar budget. Mometu helps you discover often under-served content. Some of the best films you’ve never heard of are out there waiting to be enjoyed. Don’t let the algorithms tell you what’s up next. Mometu has over 10,000 hand-curated titles…. All free… All the time! Put an end to those subscription services today. The Mometu app is available for phones, smart TVs and can also be streamed over the web.
Intro/Outro Music Provided by:
https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/achaidh-cheide
https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/celtic-impulse
Be sure to follow the Paddy Wagon on IG @Paddywagonpod and check us out at https://paddywagonpodcast.com or https://linktr.ee/paddywagonpodcast
Paddy Wagon Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, iHeart Radio and all your other favorite platforms
If you’d like to submit questions, comments, hot takes or just have me respond to some of your random thoughts with some random thoughts of my own…. Please be sure to leave us a message at: https://whatayarn.com/paddywagonpodcast and you’ll be featured on a future episode.