POP CULTURE – Iron Mountain Joe

Ohh man do I love me some Ted Lasso. At this point in my life, I think Jason Sudekis is a fucking genius at what he has created. He has created something real and touching and funny and painful and healing, and I still don't know how he did it? What Is Ted Lasso? Hey there, fellow folks of the internet! Let's talk about something that's been on my mind lately – the magic of "Ted Lasso." If you haven't heard about this gem of a show, well, let me introduce you to a dose of pure joy, wrapped in humor, and sprinkled with life lessons. First things first, let's meet the man himself – Ted Lasso, played by the incredibly talented Jason Sudeikis. Now, Ted isn't your typical sports coach. In fact, he's an American football coach who gets recruited to lead a struggling English soccer team, AFC Richmond, despite knowing next to nothing about soccer. Sounds like a recipe for disaster, right? Wrong. You see, Ted Lasso isn't just about soccer. It's about kindness, empathy, and the power of believing in oneself and others. And boy, did it hit me right in the feels. So, here's how this delightful show helped me become a better version of myself. Optimism in the Face of Adversity: One of the first things you'll notice about Ted is his unyielding optimism. No matter how tough things get – and trust me, they get pretty tough – he always finds a way to see the bright side. Watching him tackle challenges with a smile on his face reminded me that a positive attitude can make all the difference, even when the odds are stacked against you. The Power of Empathy: Ted Lasso isn't just concerned about winning games; he genuinely cares about his players as individuals. He takes the time to understand their struggles, fears, and dreams, and he's always there to lend a listening ear or a shoulder to lean on. His empathy towards others inspired me to be more compassionate and understanding in my own interactions, both personally and professionally. Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: AFC Richmond isn't just a soccer team – it's a family. And like any family, they have their fair share of disagreements and misunderstandings. But through it all, they learn to trust and support each other, both on and off the field. Ted teaches us that true success isn't measured by wins and losses, but by the bonds we forge and the memories we create together. It's Okay to Ask for Help: Despite his sunny disposition, Ted isn't afraid to admit when he's struggling or when he needs a helping hand. Whether it's seeking advice from his assistant coach, seeking therapy, or simply leaning on his friends for support, Ted teaches us that it's okay to be vulnerable and to reach out when we need assistance. After all, we're all in this crazy journey called life together. Believe in Yourself: Perhaps the most important lesson I learned from Ted Lasso is the importance of believing in yourself, even when others doubt you. Throughout the series, Ted faces skepticism, criticism, and even outright hostility from those who underestimate him. But he never lets it get him down. He knows his worth, and he never wavers in his belief that he can make a difference – not just in soccer, but in the lives of those around him. So, there you have it – five ways "Ted Lasso" helped me be better. Whether you're a die-hard fan of the show or you've never heard of it until now, I encourage you to give it a watch. Who knows? You might just find yourself laughing, crying, and learning a thing or two along the way. In the words of Ted Lasso himself, "Be curious, not judgmental." And remember, folks, kindness is always the best game plan. Barbecue Sauce!!!!