Spaces Host Holden Culotta – Talking Twitter X, Election 2024, and RFKjr!

by Billy Dees, posted in Media, Podcast, Social Media

On this episode, Holden Culotta and I engage in a conversation about the impact of social media on politics, the corruption in the political system, and the shift towards celebrity culture in politics. They also discuss the role of media in shaping public opinion and the rise of podcasting as a platform for open and honest conversations.

Holden Culotta on X @Holden_Culotta

This discussion is important as it highlights the changing dynamics of media and politics, the influence of social media on elections, and the need for transparency and accountability in the political system. It also emphasizes the importance of independent media and free speech in fostering a more informed and engaged citizenry.

We also touch on the changes in social media platforms, particularly X (Twitter), and the importance of having a different model that allows users to have more control and visibility. They also discuss the impact of social media censorship and the need for a free speech platform. Holden Culotta shares his experience hosting spaces on X (Twitter) and the importance of respectful conversations and bringing together different political groups.

The conversation also touches on the political landscape, including the potential for RFK Jr. to run for president and the need for new faces in politics. It reflects the desire for authenticity and a return to a sense of pride in the country among younger generations.

Overall, this podcast sheds light on the changing dynamics of social media platforms, the need for alternative models that prioritize user control and free speech, and the potential for new political figures to bring about positive change. It also highlights the growing dissatisfaction with traditional political options and the desire for fresh perspectives and authenticity in politics.

You can find Holden Culotta on X @Holden_Culotta and Billy Dees @BillyDees.

This is a clip from the inteview.

HumorOutcasts – January Ornellas – “My Above Average Colon”

by Billy Dees, posted in Books, Media, Podcast

On this episode we are talking with January G. Ornellas, author of, “My Above Average Colon.”

January Ornellas shares her unique brand of humor in this debut collection of short stories. Ornellas’ sharp wit and raw vulnerability will have you laughing out loud as she takes you on a hilarious and relatable ride through her midlife adventures.

January Ornellas

“If 50 is the new 30, then why does January Ornellas need duct tape for a DIY neck lift? Why is she being mistaken for a volunteer at her first triathlon? And why is the gym sending her hate mail?”

During this interview January shares some of her writing techniques and talks about why the Erma Bombeck style of writing has so many fans. We also cover some ground about what getting older really means to some people and why it is so important to embrace humor and a positive attitude into our daily routine.

This interview and book promotion comes to you from HumorOutcasts.com.

Preview:

Full Audio Podcast

Full Webcam Version

Hollywood, Writing, and Spirituality with Marsha Scarbrough

by Billy Dees, posted in Books, Media, Podcast

Our guest on this episode is Marsha Scarbrough, an American journalist and former assistant director in Hollywood.

The interview was digitally conducted from Spain, where Marsha currently resides. Marsha shares her experiences working in the film industry, including her interactions with notable actors such as Dolly Parton, Mary Tyler Moore, Clint Eastwood, Pierce Brosnan, and John Travolta.

Marsha also delves into her interest in shamanism and healing, which began during a challenging period in her life at the age of 40. She recounts a transformative healing session with a Native American medicine man. Marsha highlights the interconnectedness of storytelling, the arts, and psychology, emphasizing the therapeutic nature of theater and the importance of self-reflection for actors.

She has written a book about her Hollywood experiences and is currently seeking a publisher. This interview provides insights into the film industry and the personal journey of a former assistant director. It also sheds light on the transformative power of healing and the connection between storytelling and psychological well-being.

Marsha Scarbrough

Marsha also discusses her experiences with shamanic healing and her books, “Medicine Dance” and “Honey in the River.” She explains how indigenous people view human existence as vibrations and how shamanic healing uses drumming, dancing, and chanting to realign these vibrations and bring harmony into our lives.

Marsha also mentions her work with Gabrielle Roth and ecstatic dance, which she believes contributes to joy and overall well-being.

The conversation concludes with a discussion of Marsha’s social media presence and where she can be found online. Here is her website MarshaScarbrough.com.

You can find the complete interview on your favorite podcasting platform and at the bottom of this post on Spotify.

Here is a sample:

J Herman Kleiger Author – “Tears Are Only Water”

by Billy Dees, posted in Books, Media, Podcast

On this episode, I speak with Jim Kleiger, an author and mental health professional with extensive experience in psychology and psychoanalysis.

We discuss Jim’s new book, “Tears Are Only Water,” and how his professional interests influenced his creative writing. Jim shares his background growing up in Denver and his journey into psychology. We also talk about the stigma surrounding mental health, noting that it has improved but still persists.

Jim delves into his foray into creative writing, which began in 2019 and gained momentum during the pandemic. Jim’s novels explore themes of trauma, madness, psychological intrigue, healing, and transformation. “Tears Are Only Water” is described as a psychologically textured suspense and mystery with a hopeful ending.

J. Herman Kleiger

Jim shares a fair amount of light on his background, writing process, and the themes he explores in his books.

J Herman Kleiger, the author’s name otherwise going by Jim, discusses the plot of the book “Tears Are Only Water,” during the episode. The story revolves around characters coping with trauma and a crime investigation. Jim distinguishes his book as a psychological mystery and suspense rather than a typical thriller.

Jim mentions where readers can find his book and his upcoming audiobook release, which will feature multiple narrators and different character perspectives.

You can find the episode on your favorite podcast platform.

-Billy Dees

Chloe Klaus Author “The Treasure of the Reef”

by Billy Dees, posted in Books, Media, Podcast, Social Media

On this episode of the Billy Dees Podcast, we have Chloe Klaus, a first-time children’s book author and illustrator. Chloe discusses her book, “The Treasure of the Reef,” which she began writing in 2017 while in Australia. The book is inspired by Chloe’s love for mermaids and her passion for environmental education.

Chloe talks about her background in mental health and environmental studies, as well as her involvement with the nonprofit organization Green Allies. She explains how her book combines her passions for writing, art, mermaids, and environmental issues, using a simple story as a metaphor for her beliefs and values.

Chloe Klaus

The story revolves around a mermaid and a pirate who must find common ground to save the coral reef and their own survival. Chloe emphasizes the importance of finding good in others and overcoming polarization in today’s world.

The book is targeted towards children aged 8 to 9 but can be enjoyed by all ages. Chloe hopes that children who read her book will take away the message of finding common ground and seeing the good in others.

The podcast also discusses Chloe’s writing process, her use of social media platforms to market her book. The conversation provides insights into the writing process and the role of social media for authors.

You can find Chloe on X (Twitter) @ChloeLynnKlaus

Below is a sample of the conversation.

Peter King Author – “Gold Among the Trees”

by Billy Dees, posted in Books, Media, Podcast

In this podcast episode, author Peter King joins hosts Billy Dees and Kristy Mickelsen to discuss his career, travels, and writing.

Peter has written several books including, “Gold Among The Trees” and “Life’s but a Poem,” and has traveled extensively due to his career and involvement in sports. He shares that his writing process involves postulating a problem and solving it, often with unpredictable endings. Peter draws inspiration from current events and historical occurrences. He also mentions his publisher, Lizzy Campbell from Elite Lizard Publishing Company, and expresses his satisfaction with her assistance.

Peter King

The conversation delves into Peter’s experience of self-publishing his books after facing rejections from agents and publishers. The hosts and Peter discuss his reluctance to do in-person events like book signings and his self-doubt as an author. They touch on topics such as imposter syndrome, the importance of discipline in writing, and the impact of feedback from beta readers.

The podcast was recorded December 6th 2023 and they mention celebrating Christmas in Holland. The conversation is light-hearted and entertaining, showcasing Peter’s wit and humor. This podcast is important as it provides insights into the challenges and experiences of a self-published author, exploring themes of self-doubt and the creative process.

You can find the video version on X (Twitter) Billy Dees Podcast and on Billy Dees Podcasts on Facebook.

Thanks to Elite Lizard Publishing.

We Are Live on X

by Billy Dees, posted in Media, Podcast, Social Media

Occasionally, an idea comes along, and it is one of those things where you can try to research the concept, but you just don’t know until you try.

I’ve done discussion shows before, and the dynamics of them are not as easy to formulate as it may seem. The people involved must be well-informed, good communicators, and opinionated enough to make their position clear without sounding over-bearing.

I have hosted and been a part of ensemble shows before. Sometimes there is a good mix of personalities and other times not so much. Additionally, the levels of dedication from the participants can vary greatly. Frankly, as with bands and other similar collaborations, these projects are often short-lived.

I was sure there was an appetite for balanced discussion of various topics in the news and current events in the podcasting and streaming world.

Cynthia Elliott (Shamanisis) and I decided to try a live show on X as an experiment several weeks ago. The on-demand replays of our episodes are available as a podcast on your favorite platform. So far, the listens and streams have been in the multiple thousands.

This is a perfect example of things just coming together nicely.

Now, these things can drop off the radar just as quickly. How sustainable this show will be is a question with an answer that will only come with time.

We certainly want to invite you to listen in. We are live on Thursdays at 8:00pm EST / 5:00pm PST on X (Twitter).

You can find that link here @BillyDees this is where the Live-Stream will come up.

We usually simulcast on Rumble Billy Dees Podcast

A video that depicts the style and tone of the show is below.

Shamanisis is very active on X and you can follow her here @Shamanisis