Observation Station

Send us a textIn this episode of Observation Station, we dive into a thought-provoking and humorous exploration of humanity through the eyes of a hypothetical alien observer. If extraterrestrial beings were to visit Earth and observe our customs, technologies, and, yes, our quirks, what would they make of us? From our obsession with social media and our peculiar habit of talking into tiny black rectangles to the baffling way we structure our daily routines, we'll examine what might stand out ...

Send us a textIn this episode of Observation Station, we dive into the ultimate fantasy: winning the lottery! Most of us have imagined what we’d do if we hit the jackpot, but what really happens after you claim the prize? From jaw-dropping, real-life lottery wins to the surprising lottery curse that affects 70% of big winners, we’re breaking down the reality of sudden wealth. We’ll explore some of the wildest (and weirdest) things winners have bought, the best time to play, and what every fut...

Send us a textIn this episode of Observation Station, we’re taking a hard look at the habit most of us can’t seem to shake: doomscrolling. Ever opened your phone for a “quick check” and found yourself deep into disaster headlines, hours later, feeling more stressed than before? We’ll break down what doomscrolling does to our brains, why it’s so hard to stop, and how social media platforms keep us hooked with that endless scroll. With a mix of humor and some eye-opening facts, we’ll share tips...

Send us a textReady to plan your next great escape? In today’s episode of Observation Station, we’re diving into the world of holiday travel, helping you uncover the best destinations and tips for a smooth journey. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, explore new cities, or enjoy a peaceful retreat, we’ll explore options for every type of traveler. Discover hidden gems, classic hotspots, and a few insider tips that will make your planning easier and more exciting. Wherever you deci...

Send us a textIn this episode of Observation Station, we dive deep into the intricate web of personal lies—those small untruths and self-deceptions we tell ourselves and others every day. Why do we feel compelled to stretch the truth? From white lies meant to spare feelings to the ways we justify our own actions, lying has become a natural, if complex, part of human behavior. We’ll explore the psychology behind these self-crafted masks and reveal how they shape our identities, relationships, ...

Send us a textIn this episode of Observation Station, we dive deep into the escalating global tensions and what they could mean for the future of world politics. Could we be on the brink of a third world war? Join me as I break down the key players, their motives, and the complex web of alliances that could ignite a global conflict. We’ll explore the historical context, the role of economic powerhouses like the U.S. and China, and the technological advancements in warfare that could reshape t...

Send us a textre you tired of the never-ending political rollercoaster? You’re not alone. In today’s episode of Observation Station, we dive into the exhausting world of Presidential Election Fatigue—a feeling that’s become all too familiar with political giants like Donald Trump and Kamala Harris constantly in the spotlight.We break down what election fatigue is, why it happens, and how figures like Trump and Harris have played into this phenomenon. From the relentless news cycle and viral s...

Send us a textEver felt like you're just spinning your wheels without making any real progress? I, Tommy Heitz, totally get it. On this episode of the Observation Station, we tackle the all-too-familiar feeling of being stuck and how to break free from it. You'll laugh along with my childhood tales of outlandish class presidential promises while we unpack the absurdity and challenges life throws our way. With the pandemic offering a rare window into self-reflection, we’ll also talk about reev...

Send us a textWhat if choosing the right credit card could transform your financial life? On this episode of the Observation Station, I'm Tommy Heitz, guiding you through the compelling stories of two financial titans: American Express and Visa. We'll explore their origins, acceptance rates globally, and how their fee structures impact where and how often you can use them. We'll also spotlight the extraordinary perks of the Amex Platinum card, from superior customer service to unmatched trave...

Send us a textRemember when the excitement of new music meant risking your computer's well-being with every LimeWire download? Or the days when Netflix was just a stack of red envelopes waiting in your mailbox? Buckle up, nostalgia buffs, because Tommy Heitz is here on the Observation Station to whisk you away to a time before instant gratification ruled our entertainment choices. We're talking the rise and fall of music piracy, from the pioneering days of Napster to the wild exploits of arti...

Send us a textEver wondered how swapping out chips for carrots could change not just your waistline, but your mood too? We're fresh out of the kitchen and into the studio, serving a tantalizing exploration of the connection between our diet and the emotional rollercoaster we ride every day. Get ready to feast on knowledge as I spill the beans on how our meals are mingling with our mental state. You'll learn about the serotonin surge from your spaghetti dinner and why omega-3s might just be th...

Send us a textEver found yourself squished in a middle seat on a packed flight, tallying up the hidden costs of that budget airline ticket? That's the opening salvo in our no-holds-barred discussion about the rollercoaster world of air travel. From my personal run-ins with the laughable lows of budget carriers to the lofty heights of luxury airlines, we strip back the curtain to expose what's really behind those cheap fares. We get real about the true cost of 'savings' and contrast it with th...

Send us a textEver find yourself yearning for the days when creativity oozed from every neighborhood nook? I'm Tommy Heitz, your guide to the whimsical and the profound, and in our latest session at the Observation Station, we're plastering our thoughts all over this canvas we call nostalgia. We take a stroll down memory lane, lamenting the lost art of imagination that once reigned from the basketball courts to the skate parks. It's time to unplug and reminisce about the raw, unfiltered inven...

Send us a textCould the relentless march of automation be the best thing to happen to your job? That's what we're unraveling here at the Observation Station, where laughter meets learning and nothing is off-limits. I'm your host, Tommy Heights, and we're sailing through the complex seas of technology, exploring how robotics and efficiency could be the wind in the sails of economic growth. But it's not all smooth sailing; we're also staring down the squall of job displacement and the skill gap...

Send us a textEver wondered how the lavish cabins of Mercedes-Benz and Tesla compare to the dependable charm of a Toyota Camry or a Ford Focus? Buckle up with me, Tommy Heitz II, as we cruise through the distinctions, debating whether to stick with the trusty Camry Hybrid I've racked up countless miles on or to spring for a new model brimming with tech and safety features. Luxury vehicles aren't just about getting from A to B; they're rolling statements of innovation and comfort. Meanwhile, e...

Send us a textEmbark on a cosmic odyssey with us as we uncover the trailblazers who are turning space tourism from a distant dream into a tangible ticket to the stars. Hang on to your space helmets while we explore the universe of Blue Origin, SpaceX, and Virgin Galactic alongside pioneers Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, and Richard Branson. Imagine strapping in for a suborbital flight, marveling at the curvature of Earth, and even chuckling at our pitch for a reality TV show that could silence all fl...

Send us a textPrepare to be dazzled as we uncover the shimmering truths behind the sparkle on your finger! It's Tommy Heitz here, taking you on a journey from the earth's fiery belly to the cutting-edge labs where diamonds are born. We're entering a debate that's as old as the stones themselves: natural versus lab-grown diamonds. Fasten your seatbelts and tune in for an episode filled with billion-year-old secrets, modern marvels, and everything in between.Get ready to explore the miraculous ...

Send us a textAs the frost of yesteryear melts away, we're here at the Observation Station to stir the coals of introspection and fan the flames of lively debate. Have you ever wondered why the promises we make to ourselves often flicker out like forgotten candles? This episode tugs at the threads of that curiosity, unfurling a tapestry of personal anecdotes that journey from the wintry cheer of Chicago to the sun-soaked solitude of South Florida. Observing the transformation in holiday tradi...

Send us a textImagine if you could unleash the power of your creativity, using it not just to dream, but to turn those dreams into reality. That's exactly what we're exploring on the latest episode of Observation Station podcast. We're on a mission to demystify the workings of creative minds, marveling at how these geniuses don't just see the world for what it is but redefine what's possible. We're talking Steve Jobs, JK Rowling, and other legends who've defied norms and transformed our world...

Send us a textReady to embark on a mouth-watering journey into the world of competitive eating? Expect a rollercoaster ride of gastronomic proportions, where the humble hot dog eating contest has evolved into a global phenomenon. We'll be chomping down on fascinating insights into the leading lights of this sport - Joey Chestnut and Takeru Kobayashi. Get a taste of their unique techniques and grueling training routines, and take a serious look at the risks involved. But remember, it's not jus...

Send us a textDare to delve into the chaos and sheer madness of Black Friday with me, your host, Tommy Heitz?.Ever wondered why this shopping frenzy, synonymous with mega deals and sometimes even violence, holds such a colossal place in our culture and economy? We trace the history of this annual phenomenon, from its sobering origins linked to a financial crisis, to its transformation into a globally recognized shopping bonanza. Hear about the darker side of this retail rampage - the strain o...

Send us a textPrepare for an exhilarating journey into the heart of the most gripping conspiracy theories that have emerged in the digital era. We're peeling back layers of fear and confusion fostered by the pandemic, unmasking the origins and impacts of these theories while dissecting the science behind electromagnetic fields, 5G technology, and public health data. Feel the pulse of one of America's most tumultuous days as we navigate through the chaos of the US Capitol riots - contrasting n...

Send us a textEver wondered if your gut feelings could be more than just a coincidence? Join us as we journey into the intriguing world of gut instincts, promising to not only enlighten you about the incredible gut-brain connection but also its crucial role in your daily decision-making process. Explore with us the fascinating concept of 'corazonada', an essence akin to the gut feeling at its core, and learn why a good gut health is not just a wellness fad, but a necessity. In the thick ...

Send us a textEver wondered why you keep falling for the $19.99 trick, or why a $400 pair of jeans seem like a steal next to its $200 counterpart? Hold on to your wallets, because we're about to reveal the secrets of the retail world and their cunning pricing strategies. From the art of anchoring to the mesmerizing left-digit effect, we dissect the tactics that get us to part ways with our hard-earned cash. We'll also venture into the dreamlike (and wallet-emptying) world of high-end fashion,...

Send us a textEver wondered why certain brands have an unexplainable allure? It might not just be their product line or service offerings; it might be the mesmerizing play of colors in their logos and advertisements. Welcome to an illuminating journey through the rainbow with me, your host, Tommy Heitz, as we unravel the deep-rooted psychological impacts of colors in marketing. We'll unearth the hidden messages behind the color choices of popular brands, revealing how colors can shape our emo...

Send us a textEver thought about why the conventional methods sometimes fail to work? What happens when you step outside the traditional confines and explore the wilderness of creativity? In this roller coaster episode of Observation Station, we challenge the age-old norms, and dive headfirst into the realm of unbounded and unconventional thought processes. Your host, Tommy Heitz, navigates you through the constraints of conventional wisdom, highlighting the pressing need to evolve with the r...

Send us a textEver felt conflicted when making a decision? What if you could navigate your way through your choices with confidence and clarity? Join us at the Observation Station, where we'll be unwrapping the intriguing art of decision making. We'll be dissecting cognitive biases that often mislead us - and, importantly, discussing how to avoid falling into these common traps. We'll also be introducing you to the SWOT analysis, a tool that can highlight your strengths and pinpoint areas tha...

Send us a textEver wondered how humor can be found in the most mundane or even tragic aspects of your life? Join us as we take a leap and explore how our collective cultural backgrounds shape our perception of humor, making us laugh in the face of adversity. Your host, Tommy Heitz, shares his unique insights on the importance of not taking life too seriously. We delve into the art of seeing the comedy in our tragedies and how this balancing act enriches and adds depth to our daily life experi...

Send us a textHave you ever wondered how to set the dance floor on fire in the heart of Medellin, Colombia? Ever wished you could salsa and bachata like a local? Come with me, Tommy Heitz, as we journey together through a night filled with rhythm, dancing, and cultural discovery! Discover the vibrant world of Latin dance as I share my venture into a Medellin dance hall where, for a mere $20, I experienced a party that lasted till dawn. Tune in as I unwrap the distinct features of salsa and ba...

Send us a textEver wished you could steer any conversation your way? Today's episode gives you the guidebook to do just that. We're pulling back the curtain on negotiation and exploring how you can leverage emotional intelligence, cognitive biases, and anchoring strategies to your benefit. Don't miss the brilliant nuggets derived from Chris Foss' 'Never Split the Difference' as we break down how to accurately read emotions and maintain a cool head under pressure. If you've ever had to navigat...

Send us a textWhat happens when a valet and hotel bellman becomes a successful sales executive? Join your host Tommy Heitz as he takes you on a journey through his life, revealing how he navigated his way from the service industry to a rewarding career in sales. From his humble beginnings, dealing with the pressures of the service industry and cultural biases, to learning the important lessons of attention to detail, customer service, and soft skills, Tommy offers a candid insight into his pe...

Send us a textWhat if the secret to healthier and cost-effective eating habits lies in a revolutionary kitchen gadget? That's right - it's time to swap those fast food menus for the Instant Pot. This clever device is not just about making cooking a breeze; it’s about empowering you to take control over what goes into your body. From perfecting rice and beans to comfort food like mac & cheese, we'll guide you through our favorite recipes and tips to make the most of this culinary wizard.Bu...

Send us a textTired of feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of adulting? Join me, your host Tommy Heights, as I take you on a hilarious and enlightening journey through the labyrinth of adult life. In the first chapter of this episode, we tackle the practical aspects of adulthood, from deciphering the cryptic instructions of Ikea furniture to mastering the art of grocery store etiquette. With a sprinkle of common sense and a dash of wit, we navigate the complexities of managing finances and ...

Send us a textEver wonder what it truly means to live an authentic life? In today's episode of Observation Station, we're peeling back the layers of this complex journey, led by your host, Tommy Heights. We're seeing past societal norms and expectations, scrutinizing our personal beliefs, and confronting the biases that could be holding us back from our genuine selves. It's a raw, open discussion about identifying our core values and ensuring our actions are in line with them.We also dive int...

Send us a textWhat if you could unlock a secret reservoir of creativity and inner peace within you? That's right, we're talking about the underestimated potency of solitude. Rather than a state of being alone, we reveal how solitude is an opportunity for self-reflection and a canvas for your creative endeavors. Whether it's a meditative walk, a peaceful yoga session, or time spent crafting your next masterpiece, solitude serves as a refuge for your mind, fostering emotional wellbeing. But hol...

Send us a textEver faced a heckler of your own fears? I have, and I'm sure you have too. On this ride, we’re navigating the terrain of stand-up comedy, a world fraught with uncertainties and the unexpected. I'm your host, Tommy Heitz, and I'll be sharing my personal journey into the world of comedy, right from tackling the fear of the unknown, to handling hecklers. There's no sugarcoating here, just unfiltered truths about stepping onto the comedy stage. We move from the comedic stage to...

Send us a textYou're about to experience a voyage into the hilarious world of coffee culture! We're setting out on a caffeinated exploration into the intriguing disparity between those sipping on luxury, artisanally roasted, single origin coffees and their counterparts who are all about that budget brew. Prepare to laugh as we break down the peculiarities and passions of these two very different coffee tribes. From the painstaking precision of latte art, to the staggering financial costs of c...

Send us a textEver dreamed about falling or wondered why you're chatting with a cat in your sleep? Welcome aboard the Observation Station, where we decode these nighttime narratives, providing an insightful look into your subconscious mind. Dreams, often cryptic and peculiar, are in fact a reflection of our inner thoughts and emotions - they're our bodies speaking to us. We dive deep into this fascinating world, unraveling how dreams can guide us in setting life goals and overcoming barriers ...

Send us a textEver thought about the powerful role music plays in our lives? We're exploring that fascinating topic today on the Observation Station, from the ways it lifts our moods at a lively bar, to the triumphant feeling of mastering a difficult tune on your guitar. Join us for a lively conversation on the evolution of popular music genres and the artists that came to define them. We also discuss our personal experiences with music, including a trip to Colombia where dancing to the ...

Send us a textAre you yearning for a simpler, clutter-free life, but not sure where to start? Embark on this enlightening journey with me, Tommy Heitz, as we discover the magic of minimalism. In this episode, we delve into the world of minimalism and how simplifying your environment can significantly enhance your life. Whether it's decluttering your car or minimizing the tabs on your computer, we examine how these practices can spark joy and foster a harmonious living space. But, we don'...

Send us a textHave you ever stopped to ponder the strange peculiarities of everyday life? That's exactly what we're doing in this enlightening episode! Join us as we take a comedic yet thought-provoking look at life in South Florida - a place where boxing traffic poles and shouting at thin air are not out of the ordinary. We'll laugh, question and reflect on the weirdness around us, and try to find meaning amidst the chaos of our digital age. This episode also encourages you to question the i...

Send us a textWhat if the biggest barrier to your productivity and success wasn't laziness, but something deeply ingrained in your psychology? Today, we're peeling back the layers of procrastination, revealing it as more than just a bad habit, but rather a complex psychological issue tied to fear of failure and the avoidance of tasks. We'll shed light on how procrastination can stand in your way, resulting in health issues from neglecting self-care to missed opportunities and unfulfilled pote...

Send us a textWho's feeding you information, and how's it cooked? We're your chefs for today, chopping up the complex ingredients of media, news, books, and AI. The dish? A wholesome platter of knowledge that challenges how you consume information. We dissect the diminishing charm of mainstream news outlets and the emergence of books as a reliable knowledge powerhouse. Unraveling the AI revolution, we share how it's transforming our jobs and lives at an unprecedented pace. We even serve some ...

Send us a textEver wonder how far we've strayed from the days of AOL chats and anonymous screen names? Strap in as we embark on a thrilling journey through the evolution of online anonymity in the digital age. Together, we'll expose the illusory comforts of VPN security while reminiscing about the wild pranks we pulled in our collective digital youth. We'll dive deep into the murky waters of Facebook groups and Instagram, revealing the stark truth behind the supposed privacy they offer.The co...

Send us a textEver reminisce about the sheer thrill of backyard fireworks and the joyous chaos of the 4th of July? We sure do! Join us on a nostalgic trip down memory lane as we recount the laughs, the questionable firework safety, and the heartwarming traditions that embody this uniquely American holiday. We'll also take you behind the scenes of the pop-up firework stores and the legendary Nathan's Hot Dog Eating competition, while remembering the classic combination of sunburns, hamburgers,...

Send us a textEver been startled by a shower with electrified wires, or watched a statue of Jesus hover above the clouds? I have, and that's just a glimpse of my recent expedition to Brazil. This adventure was replete with eye-opening encounters, cultural revelations, and a newfound perspective on Brazilian lifestyle. I'll take you through our journey, sharing stories about the electrifying (literally) showers, how we navigated the language barrier, and the inspiring sight of Christ the Redee...

Send us a textAre you feeling the pinch of life getting more expensive? Fear not, we've got your back with some valuable tips and tricks on how to maximize consumer loyalty rewards to save money and get the best deals possible!From grocery store apps to hotel reward programs, we share our personal experiences and insights on leveraging these reward systems to your advantage. We discuss the benefits of downloading store apps, signing up for hotel rewards, and even making the most of credit car...

Send us a textEver wondered how ChatGPT is transforming our interaction with technology and what this could mean for our future? Don't miss this eye-opening episode of the Observation Station, where we dive into the impressive growth of ChatGPT and its impact on problem-solving, education, and so much more. From the evolution of technology since the iPhone to the revolution of services like McDonald's, we'll unravel the implications of this AI-driven product on our lives.But the future of AI ...

Send us a textFeeling lost without a plan, or just barely skating by in life? You're not alone! Join us in this episode of Observation Station as we navigate the challenges of rising expenses, from groceries to housing, particularly in South Florida. We even examine how the homeless in the area manage to receive untaxed income, free food, and showers. Plus, we highlight the importance of appreciating the resources and infrastructure available in the United States compared to other countries.D...

Send us a textIn this introspective solo episode, we embark on a personal exploration of mental health and the transformative power of self-care. Join me as we delve into the depths of our own minds and hearts, shedding light on the importance of nurturing our mental well-being in today's fast-paced world.Through heartfelt reflections, practical tips, and powerful anecdotes, we embark on a journey of self-discovery and self-compassion. Topics covered in this episode include:1. Understanding M...

Send us a textIn this episode, we delve into the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and explore its unprecedented potential to transform industries, enhance human productivity, and solve complex problems. We discuss the history of AI and how it has evolved from its early stages to its current state, where machine learning and deep learning techniques have enabled AI systems to achieve human-like performance in various tasks.Support the show

Send us a textIn this podcast, we explore the various factors that shape who we are as individuals and how we navigate the world around us. From our upbringing and cultural background to our personal experiences and relationships, there are many different influences that contribute to our unique perspectives and beliefs.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode of "Common Sense," we explore the meaning and value of common sense in our daily lives. We start by discussing what common sense is and how it differs from formal education and book knowledge. We examine the importance of common sense in decision making and how it can help us make better choices in our personal and professional lives.Support the show

Send us a textIt's never a good feeling to leave a 1 star review. This podcast goes over the journey of how different businesses respond to praise and criticism.Support the show

Send us a textLife is about figuring out the risk and reward to each situation. In this episode I go over different avenues of taking calculated risks instead of having everyday be a shot in the dark, always hoping for the best.Support the show

Send us a textThe world can be a cruel place for people wanting to step out of their comfort zone. In this episode I go over the different perspectives that people should realize when the situation arises where it feels like you can't talk to anyone without fear of judgement.Support the show

Send us a textThe 1st time I have been on a cruise and I will break down all of the pros and cons. It is now time to live on a hotel in the middle of the sea for vacation.Support the show

Send us a textI just came back from an 18 day trip from Medellin, Colombia. Here is what I was able to gather from my time in the land of eternal spring.Support the show

Send us a textIt's that time to set up the new year. Goals are needing to be made, there is no stopping the ability to impress yourself.Support the show

Send us a textSome of the time you feel that you want to be where you're at, though don't deserve the position of authority. Believing in what your mission in life is will set your doubts free of what other people think of you. This episode talks about common inner fears of people and how to logically overcome them.Support the show

Send us a textThat time of the year where once in a lifetime sales are going on everywhere you turn in the mall. The credit cards are being swiped left, right, and center on this podcast going over the habits of the modern consumer in holiday season.Support the show

Send us a textThe world is in a crazy place at the moment. How you keep your head straight is key in developing a thick skin for the debauchery of society.Support the show

Send us a textWho are you trying to impress? In this episode I go over the realities of the modern consumer habits of people living above their means.Support the show

Send us a textIf you are caught in a place where you feel like life is not going anywhere, this episode will show you how to plan the next move.Support the show

Send us a textNobody needs to direct your life but yourself. Knowing the boundaries of what you consider to be realistic and unrealistic are all in your head.Support the show

Send us a textEverybody never has time to do the important things in life because they are too busy. In this episode I go over the value in getting things done now instead of procrastinating. Support the show

Send us a textEveryday we are faced with what food to eat. So many good and bad choices. In this episode I go over the reasons why a person should value their nutritional intake more closely.Support the show

Send us a textNobody likes going to the airport these days for many of the same reasons. In this episode I will go over the benefits of airport lounges.Support the show

Send us a textMost people lack self control when given a high spending limit. If you don't need to keep up with the Jones you will be greatly rewarded. In this episode I speak about the benefits of purchasing with a credit card instead of using cash or a debit card.Support the show

Send us a textMaintenance of your health is critical in this day and age. This episode goes over the benefits of working out and feeling good about your body and spirit.Support the show

Send us a textAutism has been very misunderstood in my childhood. The most transparent experiences that I can give to you, to paint the picture of daily life with Aspergers.Support the show

Send us a textThere are thousands of languages in the world that are spoken daily. When you are learning another dialect you grow as a person. In this episode I go over being bi - lingual and how it has helped me in life.Support the show

Send us a textRemote work was a new chapter in the corporate world during the pandemic. Nowadays with just a wi - fi connection and a computer you are able to work from anywhere. Support the show

Send us a textEverybody tries to be the nice person and say, "yes" to everybody. Nowadays you have things to do and money to make. In this episode I go over different ways to make yourself a more efficient person.Support the show

Send us a textThe joy of picking up an inanimate object and turn it into sweet melodies all by yourself is almost like magic. In this episode I go over the trials and tribulations of what it is to be a musician.Support the show

Send us a textEvery establishment has its own character. Though no two lounges are built alike. In this episode I go over the different types of cigar lounges. Support the show

Send us a textThe prices of going out to eat are getting out of hand. This episode I go over the reasons that cooking is a skill that will never go out of style.Support the show

Send us a textIt is frustrating for young Millennials and Generation Z to have a dating life nowadays with the pace of life. I go over my experiences with the dating world and how it has changed over time.Support the show

Send us a textIf you think the grass is not always greener on the other side. You are sadly mistaken when it comes to travel. In this episode I break down the pros and cons of splurging on a fine property vs saving money on the economical alternatives.Support the show