Episode #1 - JDawg pt. 1 (Dean’s Dad, a Bridge Jump, and the Road to Recovery)

In this episode Dean sits down with 15-year-old Jayden to test the new podcast setup and share life stories. They talk about growing up in small-town Shadyside, family struggles with an absent father and a tough stepdad, and the search for identity and connection.

 

Dean opens up about his weight loss journey, the viral bridge jump, past relationships, drinking, run-ins with the law, and the role mentors and friends played in getting him back on track. Themes of grief, resilience, and mental discipline run throughout the conversation.

 

The hosts reflect on goals for the podcast, lessons learned, and the small daily choices that shape a better future — ending with encouragement to believe in your younger self and make the older you proud.