Time doesn’t just pass on a night shift, it echoes. I’m working in corrections, and lately the quiet hours have forced me to face a question I can’t dodge anymore: am I spending my best energy on a life that’s actually moving forward, or just watching the clock while my real goals wait on the sidelines?

I talk honestly about what it feels like when “a boring shift is a good shift” because it usually means everyone stays safe, yet the stillness can also magnify frustration. With rules that keep me from bringing books or anything to pass the time, my mind drifts to everything I want to build: writing my book, recording music, planning this podcast, and growing a 3D printing business. The tension is real for anyone searching for a career change, dealing with night shift burnout, or trying to balance stability with purpose.

We also get into the uncomfortable middle ground: standing between two chapters of life without a perfect plan for the next one. I don’t pretend I have all the answers, especially when one steady paycheck supports the dream and the creative side hustles aren’t “there” yet. But I do believe progress is often invisible at first, and success can be hundreds of small steps that finally add up into something undeniable.

If you’ve ever wondered “is this really it?” you’re not alone. Listen, share this with a friend who needs it, and leave a review if it resonates, then subscribe so you don’t miss what we build next.

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Some nights, “I’m good” is the easiest lie to tell. I’m sitting on the porch and saying the quieter truth: I’ve been tired in a way a full night of sleep can’t fix, and I almost did not hit record because I wasn’t sure I wanted anyone to hear this side of me. If you’ve been carrying more than people realize, you’ll recognize this kind of burnout right away. 

I walk through what unpredictable shift work does to your body and your life, especially when your schedule flips from days to nights and back again. It is not just about hours. It changes sleep, energy, plans, relationships, and the ability to build any routine that actually supports mental health. I also share the complicated gratitude of working corrections: it pays bills, it teaches respect and patience, and it can still feel heavier every day when the stress keeps stacking up. 

Then I get into the other part of my life: trying to build something bigger than myself through music, writing books, my website, and this podcast. I talk about the discouragement of chasing progress while staring at numbers like website visitors, Spotify monthly listeners, likes, and followers, and why I’m learning to stop measuring my worth with metrics. The takeaway I keep coming back to is simple and hard: your value isn’t measured by your paycheck, and it isn’t measured by attention. Sometimes success is refusing to quit and taking one more step. 

If this conversation helps you feel a little less alone, subscribe, share it with someone who needs it, and leave a review so more people can find the show. What’s your “one more step” right now?

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In this episode, TXMRB reflects on the importance of genuine human connection, slowing down in a fast-paced world, and the value of showing up for others. He shares personal stories from his trip, observations about modern life, and insights on building a meaningful life one step at a time.

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In this episode, TXMRB explores the deep feelings of loneliness, the challenges of modern dating, and the importance of authentic connections. He shares personal experiences and reflections on finding peace and purpose amidst solitude.

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Episode 2: Who's Sitting on This Porch?

If we're going to spend time together on this porch, I figured it was only fair to introduce myself.

In this episode, I share the road that brought me here. From being born premature and growing up between two homes, to coming out during my senior year of high school, experiencing homelessness at seventeen, working whatever jobs I could find, building a career in corrections, discovering music, and eventually writing my book, Life Under Repair.

This isn't my entire story. It's simply a look at some of the experiences, struggles, and lessons that shaped the person behind the microphone.

If you've ever felt different, started over, faced hard times, or wondered where life was leading you, I hope you'll find something familiar in this conversation.

If you'd like to explore more of my journey, including my music, book, social media, and other projects, you can find everything in one place here:

www.txmrb.com

Pull up a chair, settle in, and let's talk.

Real stories. Honest conversations. The porch light's on.

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Welcome to the very first episode of Back Porch Conversations.

In this episode, I share why I decided to start this podcast, what "leaving the porch light on" means to me, and the kind of conversations I hope we'll have together moving forward.

Life has a way of keeping us busy, distracted, and always chasing the next thing. Tonight, I'm slowing down and talking about the value of honest conversations, the lessons learned from life's ups and downs, and why sometimes the most meaningful talks happen after dark when the world gets quiet.

Whether you're driving home, working a late shift, sitting on your porch, or simply looking for a place to unwind, I'm glad you're here.

This is the beginning of Back Porch Conversations.

Pull up a chair. Stay awhile.

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https://www.txmrb.com