RICE CAKES AND PEARS

By Zach Barber

What’s up, I’m Zach, and I was on a diet of rice and pears for 8 whole years! I have an incurable disease (Eosinophilic Esophagitis) that really isolated me from everyone else. For so long, I tried to fit in with those around me. Then one day, I realized my true identity... I am a weirdo.

Rice Cakes and Pears provides a platform where weirdos can shine! A space that welcomes unique stories/perspectives. A podcast people with chronic/mental illness can relate to. Now, go ahead, pop open a can of pears, and shove a rice cake in your mouth! You won’t regret it.

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MODERN DAY MIRACLES

RICE CAKES AND PEARSOct 18, 2020

00:00

31:02

FINAL EPISODE

What a ride it's been! Thank you to everyone who has tuned into Rice Cakes and Pears, even if it was for just one episode! I am proud of myself for trying to create a platform for fellow weirdos like myself! I hope these episodes made you feel less alone, inspired, and more understood. I am truly grateful for all the AMAZING people I've met along the way. I look forward to staying connected with past guests, followers, and anyone that I've crossed paths with because of this platform. Take care of yourself, and it's okay to allow yourself to feel those negative emotions. I can't wait to be a dad

Sep 21, 202208:15

Conversation With Gus Glasser

23-year-old Atlanta Native. Eagle Parking Legend. Incredibly kind human. Gus Glasser is known for his impeccable freestyles on the Atlanta Beltline. In this episode, I enjoy a genuine conversation with Gus about his life, music, and upbringing. We bond over our past addictions and how we've been able to overcome them for the better. Going into this interview, I was already blown away by his music, but after this interview, I am even more impressed by Gus the person. I can't wait to see what comes next, and best of luck opening for Shwayze!

https://linktr.ee/gusglasser

Sep 06, 202201:01:11

Yes Theory & Moving to LA w/ Luca Mantuano

Musician, Luca Mantuano, moved to LA on a whim with only a guitar and his favorite pasta sauce. What started out as a crazy idea has opened up numerous opportunities for him. Luca takes music very seriously and is gaining an appreciation for music's behind-the-scenes work. Since moving to LA, Luca set up furniture for Billie Eilish (that she sat on for 5 min) and Seth Rogan complimented his mullet. Dude, I respect your grind and look forward to what opportunities you make the most of next!

Check out his music: lmantuano.lnk.to/LikeThis

Jun 09, 202245:03

I GOT MY G-TUBE OUT!!!!

After 7 long years, I finally got my g-tube out. It's a big step in the right direction, and I'm looking forward to no more oozing out of my stomach. I'll definitely miss being the center of attention every time I take my shirt off... LAWL! I also open up about my recent mental struggles and hope you can relate.

intro prod. by eeryskies

Jun 03, 202207:10

Douchebags, Clairo Vibes, and Bisexuality w/ Splendi

Indie-Pop artist, Splendi, recently made her single debut in "Unoriginal" which was featured on Spotify's New Music Friday! We enjoy a conversation about music, douchebags, and bisexuality. Her storytelling through a cynical lens is refreshing, relatable, and Olivia Rodrigo-like.

I can't wait for more music and hope you get a pet koi fish someday :p

CHECK HER OUT NOW:

linktr.ee/splendimusic

May 25, 202235:55

Navigating Blackness, Rap, and Facing Reality w/ FTBK

FTBK was adopted by two white parents and attended a predominately white private school growing up. Being raised in white culture, his peers tried to tell him who he was supposed to be. FTBK has been making music for 3 years and his name stands for "fredtheblackkid". His main goal in music is to have the listener feel the emotion and not escape reality but dive into theirs and experience everything fully. Thanks for sharing your journey, and I look forward to new music!

Check his music out! open.spotify.com/album/7CPjoZ78cORNAnsKjnOi7w?si=km_cbZ0bSfyM-XnDpw-DvQ

May 18, 202230:16

Getting to Know Pleasantries

HE'S SICK. HE'S TWISTED. HE'S AN ALIEN. HIS CREATIONS ARE DARK, BEAUTIFUL, AND THOUGHT-PROVOKING. HIS ANIMATIONS TELL A STORY AND MAKE YOU LAUGH.

"Pleasantries’s music is at times as dark as Satan or as lovely as a chorus of angels. Animated videos, boundless guitar shredding, and an effortless fusion of indie rock, symphonic instrumentals, and synthwave grooves meet influences like Jack Stauber, Bill Wurtz and Tally Hall." (Spotify)

THANK YOU PLEASANTRIES FOR MAKING ME LAUGH AND WELCOMING ME INTO YOUR WORLD. I TRULY LOOK FORWARD TO YOUR FUTURE CREATIONS!

check out pleasantries now: youtube.com/c/Pleasantries

https://open.spotify.com/artist/28gMJfIMF6W4X36NWDabMF?si=3LBK0_KvSbyLhhEJ-wQQcg

https://vm.tiktok.com/ZTdp4BP5m/

May 11, 202234:15

Music & Mental Health w/ Species

17-year-old, Species (Taylor Spiess) has struggled with mental health since 9 years old. He was first diagnosed with depression/anxiety and has since noticed voices in his head. His music is a mix of alternative pop, hyper-pop, and melodic emo-rap music. He also takes inspiration from Trippie Redd, Post Malone, and midwxst. Species doesn't write any of his music, but rather creates what he feels in the moment which I respect a lot. I really appreciated your insight regarding suicide prevention, and I look forward to following your music journey. Thanks again bro.

Check out his music! linktr.ee/taylorspecies

May 05, 202229:09

Humility & Authenticity w/ Kwajo

Rising artist, "Kwajo" (pronounced "kw-uh-joe") joins me for an authentic conversation about his life/music journey. Kwajo's music takes inspiration from artists all over the spectrum, from Hayley Williams (of Paramore) to Saba (his favorite rapper of all time). No matter what he creates, he prides himself on staying true to himself. Also to note, Kwajo is very quick to shout out those who have played a part in his journey. This humble dude has the right mindset on life, and I can't wait to see what he creates next! Check out Kwajo now: linktr.ee/kwajo

Apr 20, 202233:54

Q&A w/ my #wife

Aubrey and I are so grateful to answer questions from our listeners! In this episode, we answer questions about chronic illnesses, marriage, and mental health. We tried to keep it light, real, and honest. Hopefully, we delivered LAWL :D
intro prod. eeryskies

Apr 13, 202217:50

Conversation With @jjohmar

Utah County's, "jjohmar" (John Burg and Omar Campos) are creating hilarious content that draws inspiration from Kyle (legendary interviewer) and Steve (legendary Tik Toker). John and Omar take us back to their roots and share how they joined forces to create jjohmar. We discuss awkward moments, weird Utah culture, and goals for the future. One thing I admire about them is that they truly don't care what others think about them. I believe what John and Omar have is special, and I can't wait to see where jjohmar takes them. Thanks again.
Follow them on Tik Tok: vm.tiktok.com/ZTdHVvkpe/
Intro prod. by eeryskies

Apr 06, 202223:02

The ART of Keeping One's Attention w/ Josh Boucicaut

Gas Station owner, Josh Boucicaut may have found a sure-proof way to keep our goldfish-sized attention spans... Josh started filming his masterpieces during the pandemic, and he hasn't looked back since. He is highly skilled at the saxophone, very creative, and just a dope/genuine dude. Thanks again for joining me, Josh. I look forward to more videos, beats, and good energy.

You haven't witnessed Josh's masterpieces? Enjoy. https://vm.tiktok.com/ZTdmC9PtF/

Check out his beats: http://boucicaut.beatstars.com OR http://soundcloud.com/boucicaut-beats

Mar 30, 202222:16

Nice as Heck w/ Cam Daly

This week, Cam Daly blesses us with the story behind the dope clothing brand, Nice as Heck. Cam started this company alongside his two best friends from high school (2016). I'm hesitant to even call Nice as Heck a clothing brand because I believe it's much more than that... Their website states it best, "we are shaping the next generation of outdoor apparel by incorporating sustainable practices, fair pricing, and by spreading awareness to current global issues." They are especially, "compelled by community, no matter the form. If you enjoy something, do it more and make it your life. We aren’t any different from you, we have just found something we like to do and haven’t stopped. We value individual expression and believe everyone’s voice deserves to be heard." Thanks again Cam for sharing your story, being real, and giving us some honest business advice. Take it easy bro!

https://www.niceasheck.com/

insta: @niceasheck

Tik Tok: @niceasheck

Mar 23, 202225:20

Life With Dwarfism. w/ Wildine Aumoithe

Wildine Aumoithe was born with a rare type of dwarfism (Saddan Dysplasia), but that hasn't stopped her from living her best life. Wildine's smile is infectious, and her perspective on life is inspiring. Not to mention, She's the World's Shortest Female (non-mobile)! Thanks again for joining me, and I can't wait to see where life takes you!

Check out her youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/LifeOfWildine

Mar 16, 202215:35

Body Positivity, Queer Experience, and Chronic Illness w/ Logan

Logan and I explore their journey with chronic illness and coming out as nonbinary/genderqueer. Logan knew they were gay from a young age, but never felt like they could be their true self because of their conservative upbringing. Logan is shining a light for those with chronic illness by embracing the body they have been given. I'm in awe of Logan's resilience to keep moving forward despite such an unfair life. We also discuss frustrations concerning social media and their discriminatory behavior toward disabled bodies. Thanks again for joining me, and I'll be on the lookout for rice cake and pear-shaped glasses!

Instagram: @chroniclesofl

Tik Tok @queervomitt

Mar 09, 202236:17

GETTING THE "ICK"! w/ Aubrey

Aubrey and I read the internet's most infamous "ick" stories. Don't know what ick means? Let's let reliable Urban Dictionary define it. Ick is, "Something someone does that is an instant turn-off for you, making you instantly hate the idea of being with them romantically."

Mar 03, 202225:20

Heart Problems, Bullies, Christian Rap, and Talking the Mish! w/ Tybren Porter

Tybren Porter and I take a deep dive into into his upbringing. We discuss bullies, heart problems, faith, and reminisce about the good times we had on our mission in Orlando, Florida. Thanks again for chilling with me. "THAT'S YOU"

Feb 23, 202259:45

FASHION 4 ALL w/ Laura Wagner Meyer

23 year old, Laura Wagner Meyer, was born with a Congenital Neural Tube Defect. This disability severely curves one's spine, forcing them to use crutches to get around. Laura is a fashion model and a light to those around her! She is powerful, beautiful, graceful, ambitious, and authentically herself. She has never let her disability limit her from doing what she wants to do! Growing up, Laura started noticing clothes didn't fit her properly because of her disability... Which is why she is developing a fashion brand specifically catered to those with disabilities/different body types.

Feb 16, 202223:57

Making the Most of Your Situation w/ Hal Walker (banakula)

Hal Walker has been living with a mystery illness since 1992 called Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). The funny thing about ME/CFS is that some days it'll allow one to live a sort of normal life, but at any point, this crazy illness can leave you bed ridden/unable to function... Other severe symptoms include: being unable to stand unassisted, get restful sleep, or even eat solid food.

Hal is a singer, songwriter, musical explorer, multi-instrumentalist, and has developed the modern version of a traditional African instrument called a "Banakula". Since 2021, his illness has left him unable to care for himself anymore... Hal does what he can (with what little energy he has) by sharing his talents on social media. Over the past year, Tik Tok reignited his music career with 1.6 million followers.

Please consider donating to Hal's GoFundMe to help pay for heavy medical expenses: https://linktr.ee/halwalker

Feb 10, 202233:57

Consistency is Key! w/ Aum Gandhi

Aum Gandhi struggled with his mental health at an early age and started turning to food for comfort. Over time, Aum developed an unhealthy relationship with food, and at 18 his doctor told him he was pre diabetic.. From that point on, Aum decided to change his lifestyle. He started out small by running a quarter of a mile, and he almost threw up!.. Now, he is an ultra runner/endurance athlete and is gearing up to run 3 one-hundred mile races this year! Let's be clear, Aum's Journey wasn't linear! There were ups and downs, but he credit's "old fashioned" consistency to his success. Who would've thought?

Feb 02, 202233:13

Just Be Yourself. w/ Justin Tsimbidis

Justin Tsimbidis was born with Progeria, which is a progressive genetic disorder that causes one to age rapidly. The life expectancy for most people with this disease is 13 years old... Well, Justin is 28 years old and is living his best life. in 2009, Justin went viral on YouTube under the name of "Tsimfuckis", but due to personal reasons ended up deleting his channel. After disappearing from the internet for over 10 years, many people thought Justin had died.. Well, Justin is back from the grave, and enjoys creating dope content/staying true to himself. I really enjoyed talking Madden, Funko Pops, wrestling, YouTube, and more.

Jan 26, 202237:09

DATING HORROR STORIES w/ Aubrey

This week, Aubrey and I️ go mainstream and read dating horror stories on Reddit! LAWL

Jan 19, 202219:15

The Hiking Adventures of Hobo Toe (A 3000 MILE ODYSSEY)

Douglas O’Laughlin and I go way back to our swim team days in Plano, TX. It’s been 9 years since we last really talked, and man was it good to catch up! Doug AKA “Hobo Toe”, recently trekked the Continental Divide Trail (CDT), which is a “thru-hike” spanning 3000 miles across America. One of the most difficult through hikes in America, and It starts in New Mexico and ends in Montana. “Eat. Sleep. Hike.” That was Hobo Toe’s life for 4.5 months, Averaging 20-30 miles a day. There were high moments, and plenty of low moments… Thank you Doug for letting us into your life and journey across the CDT.
Doug has quite the following for semi-conductor investing. Check him out!
Substack: substack.com/profile/34637-doug-mule
Twitter: twitter.com/foolallthetime?s=21

Jan 10, 202252:20

GOAL SETTING/NEW YEARS RESOLUTIONS. CHRONIC/MENTAL HEALTH EDITION!

k, I️ give some real advice on how to go about reaching your goals with that sweet little unstable body/mind of yours. yo, I️ aint hatin! My body is crap, my mind is also crap, but I'm still gonna reach my goals this year, and I️ think you can too. (did you like that run on sentence?)

Jan 03, 202208:55

conversation with (the underrated) yung sum

20 year old, Mikey Rodriguez, professionally known as "yung sum", has been creating his own unique sound for years now. His musical style ranges from Alt pop, EDM, and a bit of Hip-Hop. yung sum's raw ability to convey struggle and real emotion is what drew me to his music. I️ feel less alone and more understood through his music.
What I️ appreciate about yung is how open and honest he is about his life/music career. He has had his low points, and even considered quitting music all together. But, let's be honest, this dude has something special. Thanks for being you and keep doing what makes you happy!
music: linktr.ee/yungsum
I️nsta: @yungsumsongs
tik tok: @yungsumsongs

Dec 13, 202132:55

WOULD YOU RATHER? w/ Aubrey Barber

The wifey and I️ give a life update and play a game of "would you rather?" silly edition!!!! LOLLLL.

Dec 06, 202115:54

Did I️ Just Talk With A Young Kanye? w/ Hanfeezy

Jamie Hanford, AKA "Hanfeezy" has been making beats since he was 9 years old.. Jamie credits his father for teaching him everything he knows about making music, and it shows. After releasing his first song, "Getaway", I️ could tell this dude had something special. Could Hanfeezy be a young Kanye in the making? He certainly has talent. I'm excited to see where music takes you bro!

I️nsta: @hanfeezy

Tik Tok: @hanfeezy

Listen to his new song "Getaway": https://soundcloud.com/hanfeezy/getaway

Nov 29, 202124:55

Joey Valance Hates Grape Flavor.

This dude is something else.. "Longtime multi-genre producer, vocalist and DJ, Joey Valence, is bringing back and modernizing the traditional Hip Hop sounds of the 80s and 90s in a way that's never been done before.”-Spotify. Let me tell ya, I couldn’t agree more. I’ve never heard a sound like his in today’s music scene.. I truly think Joey Valance has a special talent, and it will be interesting to see where he takes it. I️ expect some dope music from you and Brae I️n the near future! Thanks for helping the world understand why grape flavor I️s a menace to society. Oh, and so glad we were able to bond over Pokémon.

Insta: joeyvalance

tik tok: joeyvalance

music: https://open.spotify.com/track/5nwU8aKXeBozf61BWQJ0kw?si=qT251yrWQPixuIX1VirHhQ

Nov 22, 202128:05

Life as a Comedian, Tik Tok Weirdos, Food Allergies, and Talking About my 6 Wives. w/ Anthony Stiriti

Anthony Stiriti was born with Hemifacial Microsomia, which is a condition that effects one side of his mouth. You think that's sick? How dare you! CANCELED!.... Anthony is the man, and is pretty good at making fun of himself. He credits his condition and playing D3 baseball for making him the man (comedian) he is today... Anthony does stand up at the "HaHa Comedy Club" in North Hollywood, so you need to check him out when you come through. Thanks again bro! #Scottsdale
Check out his dope podcast: open.spotify.com/show/4UyYf8nPE4rUWOvABYY5Sp?si=GT7gIYmwT2-cBE-KGd0YLw
I️nsta: @anthonystiriti
Tik Tok: @anthonystiriti

Nov 15, 202101:18:32

Proving People Wrong Since She Was Born. w/ Hannah Setzer

Hannah Setzer is strong, ambitious, and just a light to the world! Hannah has been through soooooo much. She was born with a rare condition called Cystic hygroma, where cysts grow in her neck/head. Hannah was told she would never live a normal life because of her condition... CHECK AGAIN DOCTORS!! Hannah is a proud wife, foster mother, business owner, and a disability advocate. This woman does it all!! Thanks again Hannah. I am truly honored, and now, I am on the hunt to find adult males with feeding tubes. (Hannah made me realize I️ actually don't know any adults my age with feeding tubes haha)
I️nsta: @feedingtube.fitness
Wanna check out her businesses? Blog? And even support a cause to build a community center for those with disabilities? Link Below!
linktr.ee/feedingtube.fitness

Nov 08, 202156:58

Living Life Despite Uncertainty. w/ Kristen Doornbos

Kristen Doornbos is a 30 year old business woman, runner, and massage therapist. At first glance, you would not know the adversity she faces on a daily basis... Kristen has gone through many diagnoses throughout her life, which include Crohn's disease, Gastroparesis, and Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Unfortunately, even though she has been diagnosed, there are still question marks regarding what is going wrong, even today... Kristen also has a feeding tube due to not being able to fully digest and absorb nutrients properly. We talked about a range of topics regarding life with a feeding tube, dating, running, business, and more! What I️ loved about our interview, is that Kristen lives her life the best she can, despite so much uncertainty!

I️nsta: @kristendoornbos

Check out her greeting card business too!! Insta: @papertrailsgreetingco

Nov 01, 202132:55

Down Syndrome Awesomeness #3 w/ Arik Ancelin (akamrstealyourgirl)

The man... the myth... the legend... ARIK ANCELIN! Arik has many passions, but his favorite is definitely creating music! Arik has 1.5 million followers on Tik Tok and just recently went on tour!! I asked Arik if he ever gets nervous on stage and he said, "No, I'm a natural performer". This dude grinds everyday, and is proof anyone can chase their dreams. Arik and I️ talk about haters, fame, new music, and more. I️ think you guys are gonna enjoy this one!

Thanks again Arik! RIP Juice World! (Arik's favorite rapper)

I️nstagram: arik_the_rapper

Tik Tok: akamrstealyourgirl

Spotify and Apple Music: Arik Ancelin

Oct 25, 202120:07

HAPPY BIRTHDAY 2 RICE CAKES & PEARS

This episode, I go through some of the biggest lessons I've learned since starting my own podcast! Will I️ keep making episodes? Will I️ keep being a frick? That, I️ can answer. Yes. Thank you all for a wonderful year, and I️ hope we can all continue to be homies.

Sincerely,

Zach

Oct 19, 202110:00

Hell and Back #3 w/ Jordan Hardgrow

Last January, 2020, Jordan Hardgrow was looking for his car one night in down town San Diego. Jordan's life would change that night because he was being followed... Next thing you know, Jordan woke up in the hospital with stab wounds all over his body. It was a miracle that he survived. I️ asked Jordan if he was angry about what happened and he replied, "I️ am even more grateful for life now." What a guy. Your resiliency and ability to focus on the positive is a true gift. Thanks for being vulnerable and sharing your story brother. Oh, and good luck becoming a nurse dude! Insta: jwork_21 and check out his podcast “Respawn Podcast” on YouTube and Buzzsprout! youtu.be/P0O7IgVWdek

Oct 11, 202120:07

Leave it ALL in the pool! w/ Jamal Hill

At 10 years old, Jamal Hill was diagnosed with a rare disorder called, "Charcot-Marie-Tooth". (CMT) CMT is a degenerative nerve disease that damages nerves in the arms and legs. Up until Jamal's college swimming years, he never really told people about his condition. Like myself, he didn't want people to look at him differently because of his condition. After a college swim meet that went poorly, Jamal had an epiphany, he was going to drop out of college and become a pro swimmer! Fast forward to Tokyo and this dude just won bronze in the 50 meter freestyle!!!! LET'S GO! Thanks Jamal, for inspiring those who are different to chase their dreams.
I️nsta: @swimuphill

Oct 04, 202135:34

Legend of Sora

Sora is a "fat and depressed internet sad boi who makes music", (According to his instagram bio) but I️ would say he is much more than that. Sora is from Philadelphia and has a speech impediment, and if you add those together, it creates a magical sound. His music is thought provoking, complex, and relatable. Sora credits Mac Miller, MF Doom, and 90s hip-hop to be among his greatest musical influences. The tale of Sora is one that I️ relate to, and I️ think you will too!

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/sad_sora/tracks

Tik Tok: sorad__

I️nsta: sadsora_x

Sep 27, 202130:49