In this episode, Matt - a dad, husband, friend, and cancer survivor - speaks openly about life beyond diagnosis and treatment. The conversation explores mental health, parenthood, and how perspective can shift in the aftermath of illness.

Are you interested in being a "Part of the Sum" and having your story aired? Email us at sumofagespodcast@gmail.com

This episode, we have Tatenda — 26 years young with some real insight and wisdom to share. He opens up about growing up in an African-American household in the Midwest, and how a visit to Zimbabwe gave him a deeper understanding of his roots and family. But the heart of this conversation is about his relationship with alcohol and the journey to sobriety. When his body essentially began to give up on him, Tatenda knew something had to change. That turning point catapulted him into a new chapter of life. Enjoy 26 years of life, and ADDICTION, with Tatenda. 

Are you interested in being a "Part of the Sum" and having your story aired? Email us at sumofagespodcast@gmail.com

On the precipice of his 92nd birthday, Max lays out an important perspective. From limited schooling due to the war, to cooking food for the Governor General of Australia, this man talks with consistent humor and sincerity. I truly loved his passion for cooking, and how he turned a mere assignment in the military, into a life purpose that he still lives by today. If anything, the biggest takeaway is that life is too short to wallow in the negatives. You’re about to listen to a fella who after 92 years all that matters is kindness, humor, connection to humans, and a couple of beers to round out the day. Enjoy, Max. 

Are you interested in being a "Part of the Sum" and having your story aired? Email us at sumofagespodcast@gmail.com

Being a teenager and young adult is difficult. Navigating identity, social spheres, school, thinking about the future. No one at that stage in life is thinking about being diagnosed with cancer. That is exactly what happened to this episode’s guest, Keegan. This episode explores his diagnosis and recovery from cancer. How Keegan navigates his life and travels, with a lens of gratitude, optimism and joy is nothing short of amazing. I am honored to call this Keegan a friend, and I have no doubt listeners will enjoy his story. And what makes this episode special, is that it happens to be his 24th birthday.

Are you interested in being a "Part of the Sum" and having your story aired? Email us at sumofagespodcast@gmail.com

In this episode, we have Cho, a 28-year-old from Houston who brings a refreshing and uplifting perspective to the table. Many of us get caught up trying to better ourselves or dwell on negatives and hardships. Cho does the opposite. He uses his life experiences and the lessons learned to fuel his positivity and happiness. As a passionate coach, teacher, and mentor, Cho’s outlook is a powerful reminder not to take life too seriously and to truly appreciate the little things. This conversation is candid, fun, and a breath of fresh air. 

Are you interested in being a "Part of the Sum" and having your story aired? Email us at sumofagespodcast@gmail.com

Natalie Deering is a 39-year-old psychologist, mother and wife from Fort Thomas, Kentucky, and our conversation dives into something no human can escape—anxiety.

What makes this episode special is Natalie’s unique blend of personal experience and professional expertise. As a trained psychologist specializing in Internal Family Systems (IFS), she brings a fresh perspective on how we understand and navigate anxiety.

Whether you struggle with it daily or just want to understand it better, this conversation will challenge the way you think about anxiety in ways you may never have considered.

Find Natalie on Instagram at @nataliedeering or her website https://www.ndwellnessservices.com/

Are you interested in being a "Part of the Sum" and having your story aired? Email us at sumofagespodcast@gmail.com

This week's guest is Sergeant Adam Hartswick, a veteran whose life took a drastic turn in 2013 when he sustained catastrophic injuries in combat—ultimately losing both of his legs and part of his arm. But Adam’s story isn’t just about war or the tragedies that come with it. It’s about resilience, purpose, and using life’s hardest lessons to create something meaningful.

A quick heads-up—this episode includes graphic details of Adam’s injuries. If that’s something you’d rather avoid, you may want to skip ahead when he begins describing May 14, 2013.

It’s an absolute honor to have Adam share his journey—the struggles, the growth, and the incredible strength it takes to rebuild after everything changes in an instant. Please enjoy this conversation with Adam Hartswick.

Are you interested in being a "Part of the Sum" and having your story aired? Email us at sumofagespodcast@gmail.com

This week’s guest is Lauren Fields, a 31-year-old whose insight and experience will leave you speechless. At just 14, her life took a dramatic turn when she suffered a life-altering injury during an equestrian competition. But that moment didn’t just change her—it set her on a path of transformation, resilience, and purpose.

Now a clinical psychologist, life coach and podcaster, Lauren has dedicated her life to helping others navigate their own challenges. She recently delivered a TED Talk, sharing her powerful story and the lessons she’s learned along the way.

But this episode is about so much more than overcoming a traumatic brain injury. It’s about embracing change, listening to your calling, and turning adversity into impact. Lauren has built an inspiring community, proving that even the hardest moments can lead to something greater. I enjoyed the tangible tools she gives to enhance your life and I hope you do too.

Are you interested in being a "Part of the Sum" and having your story aired? Email us at sumofagespodcast@gmail.com

Sam, better known as "BK"—a 25-year-old from Bath, England with an unmistakable candor and down-to-earth energy. BK has faced more loss in five years than most do in a lifetime, losing three close family members, and during this very recording, he was bracing for yet another.

What stands out most about BK is his unconventional approach to grief—rejecting societal expectations and embracing what truly feels right for him, rather than simply following the script of how we’re "supposed" to mourn.

This episode isn’t a formal discussion on loss—it’s two good mates sitting down and having an open, honest chat about death. No pretenses, no forced positivity, just real talk about something undeniably difficult. If nothing else, I hope this conversation shows that sometimes, all we need to do is sit, listen, and talk about the things that—let’s be real—are just shit.

Are you interested in being a "Part of the Sum" and having your story aired? Email us at sumofagespodcast@gmail.com

Keith is a 48-year-old from the USA with one of the most unique and thought-provoking outlooks on life. An author, teacher, coach, surfer, and all-around seeker of wisdom, Keith has spent years diving deep into mental health, addiction, meditation, and personal transformation.

He’s the kind of person you meet and walk away thinking, damn, I wish I could operate at the frequency he does—calm, balanced, and completely at peace. In this episode, Keith shares insights, philosophies, and resources that might just shift the way you see the world.

I highly recommend grabbing a notepad or opening the notes app on your phone—Keith drops a wealth of knowledge, from books to philosophers to practical tools for self-discovery. This is the kind of conversation that might take a couple of listens to fully absorb, but I guarantee you’ll walk away with a fresh perspective.

Are you interested in being a "Part of the Sum" and having your story aired? Email us at sumofagespodcast@gmail.com

This week’s guest is Mary, a 26-year-old from the USA whose story is a powerful testament to the life-changing impact of slowing down and reevaluating what truly matters. From growing up in Chicago to studying in San Diego and then working in the fast-paced world of New York City, Mary believed she was following the path she had always envisioned. But beneath the surface, her mental health was unraveling—crippling anxiety, exhaustion, and deep depression eventually led her to a breaking point.

Mary’s turning point came when she stripped life down to its essentials—letting go of relentless pressure, seeking treatment, and rediscovering her own sense of purpose. This conversation is about change—not just as something we go through, but as something that can save us. Let’s dive in.

Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of depression and suicidal ideation. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to a trusted support system or professional help. You are not alone.

Are you interested in being a "Part of the Sum" and having your story aired? Email us at sumofagespodcast@gmail.com

Dee, a 26-year-old from Chicago, shares how his story is a testament to the power of self-reflection and change. Despite excelling in school and earning a degree from the University of Notre Dame, Dee found himself at a crossroads, confronting his relationship with alcohol and marijuana. He realized that without addressing these vices, even a life that looked successful on the outside could unravel.

Dee’s honesty is magnetic, and you can hear and feel the peace he’s found through his journey of growth and self-discovery. For anyone curious about reevaluating their own habits or finding clarity, Dee’s story is both relatable and inspiring.

Are you interested in being a "Part of the Sum" and having your story aired? Email us at sumofagespodcast@gmail.com

Jade is a 31-year-old from Cape Town, South Africa, with a life story shaped by his unique relationship with pressure.

Jade shares how pressure has shaped every aspect of his journey—from the highs of being a professional cricket player to the lows of breaking his back in a parkour accident. He opens up about surviving violent encounters, including being shot at and stabbed, navigating the mental health struggles that followed, and resisting initiation into dangerous gangs.

This episode is a raw and powerful look at how pressure can both break and build us. 

Are you interested in being a "Part of the Sum" and having your story aired? Email us at sumofagespodcast@gmail.com

This week’s guest is Shelby, a 34-year-old from the USA who radiates positivity, determination, and an unwavering drive to help others. In 2021, Shelby’s life took a turn when a traumatic snowboarding accident resulted in the loss of her right eye.

In this episode, we delve into themes of addiction, trauma, and the resilience it takes to overcome a life-altering injury. Shelby’s journey is nothing short of remarkable—turning a pivotal moment of pain into a mission to serve and uplift others.

Are you interested in being a "Part of the Sum" and having your story aired? Email us at sumofagespodcast@gmail.com

Emma, a 42-year-old wife and mother of two from Western Australia radiates optimism and joy. At just 30, Emma was diagnosed with a form of skin cancer—a moment that could have shattered her spirit but instead fueled her to live with even more gratitude and purpose.

In this episode, she shares how she faced the 'big C,' as she calls it, while continuing to embrace her roles as a Mum, a wife, and a lover of life. Emma’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength we can find in gratitude and the importance of caring for both our mental and physical health.

Are you interested in being a "Part of the Sum" and having your story aired? Email us at sumofagespodcast@gmail.com

Are you looking for a podcast that isn’t dominated by self-help gurus, celebrities, and professionals? Don’t get me wrong - they’re great, but what about the stories of everyday people? 

I’m Ben—Like you, I’ve felt confused, frustrated, and, honestly, a bit lost at times on this big journey we call life. And when I’ve felt these things, I wished I had somewhere to go to not feel alone. Maybe you’re here looking for answers, a distraction, or to just feel heard. 

Welcome to Sum of Ages. A library of life stories, tackling hundreds of topics. The mission? Accumulating 1 million years of combined life experience. Yep, it’s a big mountain to climb, but every story brings us closer.

Each episode, a guest tells their story on a topic they want to share—their happiness, or loss, or regret, or success, and everything in between. These stories remind us that no matter what we’re going through, there is someone else who has been through it too.

Join me every Wednesday as we build an audio library of human experience, one life at a time. Come be a Part Of The Sum.

Are you interested in being a "Part of the Sum" and having your story aired? Email us at sumofagespodcast@gmail.com