NUSKA

E.B. Johnson

“Darkness will always give you an opportunity to create your own light.”– Iain Thomas

Formerly Practical Growth with E.B. Johnson...NUSKA is a light in the darkness. A place where we can all come together to remember the human thread that unites us. Art. History. Mythology. Oddities. If it's interesting, if it's human, you'll find it here.

Welcome to NUSKA. Positive dissociation.

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20 episodes
Avg 41 min
English

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S1 · E9
March 19 · 51 min
Here We Go Again: Satanic Panic & the Epstein Files
Send us Fan Mail Are we living through a second "Satanic Panic," or are the receipts finally catching up to the monsters? This week, Connie and I are performing a sociological autopsy on the collision of the 2026 Epstein File Dump and the rise of the "New Moral Panic." Following the DOJ’s massive release of 3.5 million unredacted pages this year, the internet has become a digital war zone. We’re moving past the headlines to ask: Why is our culture responding to real, systemic horror by reviving the paranoid scripts of the 1980s? Support the show Love the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more.
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S1 · E8
January 16 · 49 min
Everything, Anything, and a Bit of Mythology
Send us Fan Mail We're baaaack! We're switching gears this week to lighten the mood. Join us as we chat about pop culture, history, mythology, and everything and anything in between. Want a recipe for pudding? Curious about Irish creation myths? Then you're going to love this random awesome episode. Support the show Love the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more.
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S1 · E7
January 7 · 54 min
The Un-Resolution Episode: New Year, Same Brain, Fewer Meltdowns
Send us Fan Mail Is it just us, or is the "New Year, New Me" energy actually kind of... exhausting? It's a new year and in this episode of NUSKA, hosts (and resident neuro-spicy besties) Connie and E.B. are officially opting out of the January 1st industrial complex. If you’ve ever felt like a failure because your gym membership lasted exactly four days or your "organized life" lasted until the first pile of laundry, this one is for you. We’re diving deep into why the neurodivergent brain often clashes with traditional goal-setting and how to navigate the "Fresh Start Effect" without the inevitable burnout. Whether you're currently hyperfixating on a new hobby or just trying to remember to drink water, pull up a chair. We’re doing the New Year differently—mostly by not doing it at all. Connect with NUSKA: Patreon: patreon.com/nuska Substack: practicalgrowth.substack.com Instagram: @NuskaPodcast Stay weird, stay curious, and we’ll see you in the next one. Support the show Love the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more.
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S1 · E6
Dec 12, 2025 · 1 hr 5 min
This Is Why We're Brain Damaged
Send us Fan Mail Ever listened to something one of us has said and thought...wtf? Well, you're not alone. It's a new episode of Nuska, and this time we're talking crazy childhoods. That's right. Moms talking to aliens. Psychic conventions. Ghost girls in the road. If you want to know what makes us so kooky, we're going to lay it all out for you. Support the show Love the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more.
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S1 · E5
Nov 14, 2025 · 1 hr 19 min
Pilgrims, POTS, And Peculiar Fixations
Send us Fan Mail What if the Salem witch trials weren’t about piety at all, but booze, power, and old grudges dressed up as holiness? This week, it's a special interests episode! We're talking the Salem Witch Trials, Frankenstein, POTS, and those two hair-plugs-attached-to-veneers that Donald Trump calls his sons. It’s all part of one through-line: special interests are not a distraction. They’re a way to decode how fear, status, and desire shape law, health, and art...and how we can push back with better stories and better tools. If this exploration sparked you, follow the show, share it with a friend who loves deep dives, and leave a review telling us which rabbit hole we should tackle next. Support the show Love the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more.
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S1 · E4
Oct 30, 2025 · 40 min
Folklore in the Flesh: Cryptids, Cryptids, and more Cryptids
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we journey across continents in search of the creatures that haunt our maps and imaginations. From the misty lochs of Scotland to the dense swamps of the American South, and the shadowed mountains of Korea, we uncover the legends of the world’s most intriguing cryptids. Join us as we explore the stories, sightings, and cultural roots behind these mysterious beings that blur the line between myth and reality. Whether it’s a scaly serpent, a swamp monster, or a shape-shifting spirit, each tale reveals something deeper about our fascination with the unknown. Support the show Love the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more.
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S1 · E3
Oct 16, 2025 · 58 min
From Britney to Babylon
Send us Fan Mail This week, we’re blending the serious with the silly in a casual episode. We talk Britney Spears and Kevin Federline, dig into the Epstein Files, debate ancient mysteries, and laugh about modern politics. Grab a coffee (or a cocktail) and hang out with us. Support the show Love the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more.
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S1 · E2
Oct 8, 2025 · 45 min
Blue Van, Red Flags: The Legacy of Bonnie Blue
Send us Fan Mail She’s funny. She’s wild. She’s dangerous...and she’s being rewarded for it. This episode dives deep into the phenomenon of Bonnie Blue: the woman weaponizing shock, sex, and self-destruction in a culture too entertained to call it predatory. We talk about power, gender, the illusion of “feminist chaos,” and why her rise exposes the cracks in how we talk about accountability (for everyone). Support the show Love the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more.
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S1 · E1
Oct 1, 2025 · 54 min
On the Art of Designing Happiness
Send us Fan Mail What does it really mean to be happy...and how do we design a life that leads us there? In this lively first episode of NUSKA, I sit down with my friend Connie Facer to wander through the strange, beautiful, and complicated landscape of human happiness. From the wisdom of ancient Greek philosophers, to eccentric figures in history who found joy in the oddest ways, to the role of art, culture, and creativity in shaping our inner lives, this conversation is part philosophy, part storytelling, part human curiosity. It’s fun, it’s thoughtful, it’s a little weird—and it just might leave you rethinking what happiness can look like. Support the show Love the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more.
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S1 · E1
Sep 26, 2025 · 5 min
Practical Growth is Evolving Into Something New...
Send us Fan Mail From Practical Growth to NUSKA This isn’t just a new name...it’s a new era. In this reintroduction episode, I share why Practical Growth is evolving into NUSKA, what the change means, and what you can expect moving forward. Support the show Love the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more.
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S4 · E406
Apr 4, 2024 · 33 min
The Phantom Reality of Narcissistic Relationships
Send us Fan Mail In this eye-opening episode of Practical Growth, we're peeling back the curtain on the enigmatic world of narcissistic relationships. Have you ever found yourself ensnared in the web of a partner’s universe, or do you struggle to understand why friends can't easily leave these destructive ties? You're not alone, and this conversation is for you. "What is a narcissistic relationship?" We'll kick off our discussion with a clear breakdown of this complex dynamic, shedding light on the psychological mechanisms at play. Does your relationship leave you feeling consistently unheard and invisible? We're here to discuss the often-overlooked signs that might suggest you're more than just star-crossed lovers; you might be caught in a narcissist’s captivating narrative. "Why are they so hard to leave?" We’ll explore the seductive dance of the narcissistic relationship – why it's so easy to fall into and why detaching can feel like an impossible task. Through powerful anecdotes and psychological insights, we'll reveal the magnetic pull of these toxic bonds. "Breaking free and moving forward." Most importantly, we'll chart the course towards liberation and self-discovery. How does one break the cycle? What does the path to recovery look like? It's not about a quick fix—it's a profound, personal revolution. I will guide you through creating healthier relationship habits, building the resilience to recognize and resist narcissistic lures, and cultivating an environment that fosters genuine connections. Empathy and encouragement are what you can expect here—because I believe in your ability to grow past adversity. Together, we’re on a mission to empower and validate your feelings because your story deserves to be heard—and you deserve a narrative where you're the hero. Join me as I step into the labyrinth with a torch of wisdom to recognize, understand, and overcome the phantom reality of narcissistic relationships. Tune in to find solace, support, and the first steps toward a healthier, happier you. Support the show Love the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more.
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S4 · E405
Mar 28, 2024 · 26 min
Quiet On Set: The Cost of Childhood Abuse
Send us Fan Mail Join me this week on a heart-wrenching yet uplifting journey with our latest episode, where we peel back the layers of the poignant documentary, Quiet on Set. 🎥 Listen as we not only explore the film's intricate development but also its profound impact on shedding light upon the hidden scars of childhood trauma. In this episode, we are diving deep into the often-unseen long-term effects that complex trauma imprints on individuals and, by extension, society at large. How do these formative experiences shape our adult lives? 🌱 What can we, as a community, learn from these narratives to foster healing and understanding? We'll also engage in an honest and eye-opening conversation about the role of parenting in filtering the world for the vulnerable life of a child. Are we, perhaps unknowingly, contributing to the cycle, or are we the gatekeepers of resilience and hope? Can awareness be the first step towards healing? 🤔 Prepare to be moved. Prepare to be inspired. Most importantly, prepare to walk away with a renewed sense of purpose in how you engage with the personal stories around you. After soaking in the insights from this conversation, turn your spark into a wildfire of change. Share this episode with friends, family, or anyone you know who can benefit from its messages. And for those hungry for more, join my TikTok Subscription for FREE live coaching sessions and deep dives into topics that touch the soul and foster personal growth. 🌟 Isn't it time we take a collective step forward towards understanding and compassion? Listen now and be a part of the change. 🎧✨ Listen to the episode Join TikTok Subscription Remember, your story matters, your healing is paramount, and your growth is our mission. 🌿 #ChildhoodTrauma #PersonalGrowth #Podcast #QuietOnSet Support the show Love the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more.
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S4 · E404
Mar 21, 2024 · 21 min
Answer This Single Question to Uncover the Most Powerful Version of Yourself
Send us Fan Mail Could you become the most powerful version of yourself through a single question? In today’s episode, I ask, "What would you do if you were the richest and most powerful person in the world?" Join me on a profound exploration of self-worth, where I unearth the role of self-reflection in fertilizing the seeds of true self-esteem. 🌱 It's not about wealth or status but about piercing through the ordinary to reveal your extraordinary desires and the values that shape them. "Imagine unlimited resources at your disposal; it's in this scenario where your true aspirations shine brightest." ✨ I'll arm you with insights on aligning your actions with your inner compass, navigating by the stars of your deepest convictions—a guaranteed way to solidify your self-worth and beam out into the world with indomitable grace. By the end of our chat, you'll have the tools to frame your vision for the life you're destined to lead. A life where you don't just exist but truly live, authentically and powerfully, creating ripples of change around you. Remember, you are the author of your story; when you write it with intention, the narrative gains a momentum of its own. Don’t just listen; leap into the heart of these conversations and emerge transformed. Your most potent self is only a question away. #RealizeYourPotential #Empowerment #PersonalGrowth #SelfEsteemJourney Support the show Love the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more.
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S4 · E403
Mar 7, 2024 · 32 min
The How and Why of Attachment: Love, Loss, and Our Insecurities in Relationships
Send us Fan Mail In this heart-to-heart episode of the #PracticalGrowthPodcast, we unwrap the invisible blueprints that lay the foundation for our relationships – yes, we're talking about attachment styles. 🧩 "Are you seeking closeness or space in relationships?" 🤔 We all dance to a unique rhythm in our partnerships, often choreographed by our attachment styles. Whether you're the secure-confident type, the freedom-loving avoidant, or the warm and sometimes anxious sort, recognizing how these styles play out can be a game-changer for your connections. 💞 This episode is your map to understanding: "What's my attachment style – and what does it say about me?" The tapestry of attachment styles – why knowing yours could be the Rosetta Stone of relationship dynamics. How to steer the ship of your relationships knowing the tides of attachment styles. Join us as we explore the alchemy of attachment and transform relational lead into gold. Knowledge is power, and self-awareness? That’s your superpower. 🦸‍♂️✨ Don't forget, the conversation doesn't end here! Join me and fellow growth enthusiasts on social media using #PracticalGrowthPodcast. Got that hunger for deeper change? Apply to work 1:1 with me (TheRealEBJohnson.com). And remember, for the daily dose of growth and wisdom, make sure you're following me on TikTok, Medium, Instagram, and Youtube. Keep those heads up, eyes on the stars, and hearts open to change. Until next time, grow on! 🚀💚 Support the show Love the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more.
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S4 · E402
Feb 29, 2024 · 22 min
Unlock the Power of Core Beliefs to Transform Your Life
Send us Fan Mail Your life is a reflection of your beliefs, woven deeply into the fabric of your daily existence. But what if we told you that a shift in these silent narratives could unlock a transformation like no other? This week, we aren't just scratching the surface; we're diving deep. 🤿 "To change your life, you have to change your behaviors. And to change those, you start with your beliefs." Have you felt stuck in a loop, witnessing the same outcomes, no matter how much effort you put in? It's time to pause and introspect: Could your beliefs be the director of this play? Without new scripts, the actors of our lives can’t play out new scenes. We'll explore the powerful connection between what you believe and the reality you experience. More importantly, we'll discuss strategies to unearth and shift those belief systems that no longer serve you. 🌱 Do you carry beliefs that might be expired tickets to a show long over? It's time to exchange them for a pass to your own growth and transformation. Get ready to engage in an honest conversation with yourself, challenge the echoes of past narratives, and learn to script new ones that resonate with the life you aspire to live. No guests, no distractions — just you, me, and a heart-to-heart about how foundational beliefs shape your world. And remember, self-exploration isn't about uncovering flaws. It's about meeting yourself at the crossroads of past experiences and future possibilities. 🚀 Tune in and take the first step toward not just changing, but truly elevating the quality of your life. Because when your beliefs shift, so does your reality. Listen now, and reshape the contours of your life's story. 🎧✨ Support the show Love the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more.
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S4 · E401
Feb 22, 2024 · 1 hr 5 min
Rewriting Success for the Neurodivergent Mind with Melanie Branch
Send us Fan Mail When life handed Melanie Branch lemons, she didn't just make lemonade—she built an empire. Join me on Practical Growth, where Melanie, a business mindset coach and the co-founder of Neuro Spicy Academy, shares her riveting transformation. From the dark trenches of a negative mindset to the empowering light of energy healing and coaching, her journey is a testament to the profound impact of reprogramming our internal narratives. Together, we dissect the critical role of mindset in achieving happiness, and how Melanie's approach is carving a unique path to success for those whose brains are wired a bit differently. In a world that sometimes seems designed for the neurotypical, those of us with neurodivergent brains are crafting our own maps to productivity and self-advocacy. This episode offers a beacon of hope for entrepreneurs who think differently, discussing the evolution of flexible systems tailored to our fluctuating capabilities. We celebrate the magic in mundane tasks, explore the impact of generational trauma on our behaviors, and advocate for relationships that empower, rather than drain. Melanie helps me envision a future society that values authenticity in all its forms—a society where spontaneous connections enrich our lives and where being neurodivergent is not just accepted but celebrated. Join us for an empowering exploration into the hearts and minds of those who are reshaping the definition of success. Support the show Love the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more.
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S3 · E318
Nov 30, 2023 · 34 min
How Neurodivergent Survivors Can Empower Themselves with Informed Self-Care
Send us Fan Mail Are you neurodivergent and looking for peace after a lifetime of trauma? Struggling to feel comfortable in your own body? Fed up with feeling constantly anxious and burnt out wherever you go? In this episode, we'll uncover why you're stuck in this never-ending burnout cycle. The neurodivergent nervous system is wired differently from neurotypical people, and that has a huge impact on the healing process. To find healing, you need to create safe environments and improve the connection in your nervous system. But how can you do that? Don't worry, I'll explain it all in this episode of the Practical Growth Podcast. Support the show Love the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more.
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S3 · E317
Nov 16, 2023 · 37 min
The Best Ways To Navigate Life's Uncertainties With Confidence
Send us Fan Mail Welcome back to the Practical Growth podcast! 🌟 Join me for a feel-good episode where I will be spilling the secrets of tackling life's uncertainties like a champ. Life's full of surprises, and guess what? You've got the power to turn those curveballs into your greatest victories. I'm sharing the lowdown on building a rock-solid foundation for embracing change and rocking a growth mindset. Get ready for the usual practical tips and mindfulness magic that'll have you navigating life's rollercoaster with true resilience. And because we're all about those success vibes, we've got inspiring stories of everyday heroes who turned uncertainty into stepping stones to their dreams. It's time to transform uncertainty from a challenge into an adventure and discover just how awesome and resilient you truly are. So, grab your favorite snack, hit play, and let's kick uncertainty to the curb with a boost of confidence and a sprinkle of positivity! 🚀✨ Support the show Love the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more.
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S3 · E316
Nov 9, 2023 · 29 min
The Ultimate Guide to the Dark Art of Machiavellianism
Send us Fan Mail Have you ever encountered someone who seemed to always be more concerned with their own interests than anyone else's? Perhaps they were willing to use deceit, manipulation, or even cruelty to get what they wanted... If so, you may have encountered a Machiavellian personality. Machiavellianism refers to a personality trait characterized by a tendency to prioritize one's own goals and desires over the wellbeing of others, and to be willing to use any means necessary to achieve those goals. It's a common trait in narcissistic people and psychopaths. By understanding the traits associated with this personality type, we can better recognize the behavior and motivations of those around us. With that knowledge in hand we can protect ourselves, our futures, and our families. In this episode I'll be breaking down what Machiavellianism looks like and how it manifests in family and relationships. Support the show Love the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more.
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S3 · E315
Oct 26, 2023 · 27 min
Crushing Overthinking: Practical Steps to Put Your Mind at Ease
Send us Fan Mail Do you find yourself trapped in the cycle of overthinking, plagued by self-doubt? It's a common struggle, but there's a way out. Join me in this episode as I delve deep into the roots of overthinking and self-doubt. Discover the underlying factors that drive these habits, and gain insights into regaining control over your decision-making. In this engaging conversation, I'll give you a practical framework designed to help you break free from the chains of overthinking and self-doubt. It's time to reclaim the happiness you truly deserve. Tune in now to take the first step toward a more confident and empowered you. Support the show Love the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more.
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