
Hosted by Ryan and Leslie · EN
Quote Mining is the podcast where Leslie and Ryan take a familiar saying and dig beneath the surface. In bite-sized conversations, they explore where quotes come from, what they really mean, and how they quietly shape the way we think, lead, and connect.

Everyone says “you only live once.” It’s used to justify big risks, small indulgences, and everything in between. But where did the idea come from, and what does it really ask of us? In this episode, Leslie and Ryan explore the meaning behind the phrase and how it’s been interpreted over time. They talk about how it can push us toward bold choices, but also how it can be misunderstood or overused. Along the way, they consider a deeper question: does living once mean doing more, or choosing more carefully? Because if you only live once, the question isn’t just what you do. It’s how you decide.

Everyone says love means being yourself. But what does that actually look like, and how much of ourselves do we keep hidden behind the roles we play? In this episode, Leslie and Ryan explore James Baldwin’s idea that love takes off the masks we fear we cannot live without—and know we cannot live within. They talk about the different versions of ourselves we show in different spaces, the relationships that allow us to be fully seen, and why vulnerability isn’t something we can force. Along the way, they ask a simple question: does love reveal who you are, or does it require you to become that person first? Because sometimes love invites you to take off the mask. And sometimes it’s the only place you finally feel safe enough to do it.

Everyone says “the truth is self-evident.” But what does that actually mean, and who decides when something is obvious enough to go unquestioned? In this episode, Leslie and Ryan dig into the idea of “self-evident” truth—where it comes from, why we rely on it, and how it shapes the way we see the world. They explore how belief, perspective, and experience influence what feels undeniable… and what gets ignored. Along the way, they ask a simple question: is truth something we discover, or something we quietly agree on? Because sometimes truth feels clear. And sometimes it only feels that way because no one stopped to question it.

Everyone says to trust your instincts. But what does that actually mean, and can you really rely on that inner voice? In this episode, Leslie and Ryan explore where instincts come from and why we’re told to trust them. They talk about how experience, fear, and confidence shape the decisions we make. Along the way, they ask a simple question: when should you listen to your gut, and when should you pause and think twice? Because sometimes your instincts guide you. And sometimes they need a second look.

Everyone says “Rome wasn’t built in a day.” But where did the phrase come from, and why do we still hold onto it? In this episode, Leslie and Ryan explore the history behind the quote and what it really says about patience, progress, and the pressure to get things done faster than they should be. They look at why this idea has lasted for centuries and how it shows up in everyday life, from small personal goals to the bigger things we’re still trying to build. Because some things take time. And some things are still in progress.

Everyone says actions speak louder than words. But where did the quote come from, and why does it stick with us? Leslie and Ryan dig into the history and meaning behind one of the most repeated lines in everyday life.

In this first episode of Quote Mining, Leslie and Ryan take on the phrase “Blood is thicker than water” and everything we assume it means. They explore its origins, its modern reinterpretations, and how a single line can shape family narratives, loyalty, and identity. It’s a conversation about language, legacy, and what happens when we look a little closer at the quotes we live by.

A blizzard. A bakeoff. A Buick LeSabre. In this episode, Dorothy and Lary (yes, with one "r") share the unforgettable story of how a humble shrimp puff recipe carried them from the snowbanks of Michigan to the warm breezes of Hawaii. It’s a tale of culinary nerve, Midwestern grit, and just enough champagne to take the edge off a snowstorm.

In this episode of Crust Issues, Ryan sits down with Jennifer Han, owner and pastry chef at La Lune Specialty Desserts in Grand Rapids. Jennifer opens up about her unconventional journey into the world of baking, how life's unexpected moments shaped her passion, and why mindfulness and authenticity are key ingredients in her creations. Join us as we explore Jen's thoughtful approach to desserts, her love for food science, and the sweet power of baking to bring joy and connection.

In this enlightening solo episode, host Ryan Nausieda demystifies the simple yet transformative technique of autolyse. Discover how combining just flour and water—and letting it rest—can dramatically improve your dough’s texture, flavor, and overall baking process. Along the way, Ryan shares the history behind this “secret weapon” of artisan bakers, the science that makes it work, and personal anecdotes on how autolyse shifted his entire outlook on bread making. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the craft, you’ll leave this episode with practical tips, a guided meditation for your dough’s rest period, and renewed confidence in letting patience take the lead.