Tag: #writing

A Busy Week for the Podcast Studio

by Billy Dees, posted in Media, Podcast

We have had a busy week.

We had two studio prerecorded interviews and one live episode.

Sweet Inspiration – A True Story of Finding Your Voice

First up was Kristy Mickelsen. Kristy is the author of A Short Read Memoir – “Sweet Inspiration”

Kristy Mickelsen

This is from her book description:

“But later, when my high from the dope I had snorted early that morning wore off, I cried again for most of the night but not out of anger. This time it was out of fear. Fear of what was happening to me. Fear of what I had become. Fear of what was going to happen to my marriage, and the fear of losing my family – all to my addiction of the street drug, crystal meth.”

In this episode, Kristy Mickelsen shares the inspiration behind her memoir and the personal journey that shaped her path as an advocate, author, and podcast host. From overcoming challenges to finding her voice, Kristy offers a powerful and uplifting story that’s sure to resonate with listeners.

You can find Kristy on X @KristyBooks and more Kristy Mickelsen links are Here

Bill Thompson – Bridging Classic Radio and Modern Tech

Then we had radio veteran and TikTok influencer Bill Thompson on the program to talk about his new venture creating content for people over the age of 40 about how to use AI.

Bill Thompson

If you’re a fan of old-school radio, you’ll find Bill Thompson’s story especially compelling. A true veteran of the airwaves, Bill spent over 30 years behind the mic, interviewing some of the most fascinating figures of our time—leaders, inventors, entertainers, athletes, astronauts, and more. By the time he retired from radio in 2018, he’d recorded an astonishing archive of over 10,000 interviews.

Today, Bill brings those unforgettable moments back to life through his podcast, Now I’ve Heard Everything—a treasure trove of wit, wisdom, humor, and history.

But that’s not all.

Bill is also embracing the future by diving into the world of artificial intelligence. Through a new YouTube series, he’s helping adults over 40—especially those less tech-savvy—learn how to use AI in everyday, practical ways. He’s gathering real stories and questions from his audience to guide the series: What have you tried? What confused you? What do you want to learn?

Whether you’re reminiscing about radio’s golden era or curious about AI’s modern magic, Bill Thompson is here to share, teach, and inspire.

You can find Bill Thompson Here

On TikTok @heardeverything

Trump, Epstein, Colbert, and NPR – Commentary with Billy Dees LIVE!

Billy Dees

We finished out the week on Friday night with political and news commentary. Our previous live last week had a technical issue. The podcast itself was fine and was posted like always but this week we had no issues. The live-stream did well on X.

Hot Takes and Heated Topics!

In this lively episode, we dive into some of the most buzz-worthy stories in the media world. First up: a mysterious birthday letter allegedly from Donald Trump to Jeffrey Epstein resurfaces—just in time to stir up controversy. Is it coincidence, or calculated distraction?

Next, we react to the surprise cancellation of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. What happened to the golden age of late-night laughs? We explore how these shows have shifted from light-hearted comedy to full-on political theater.

And finally, we take a hard look at NPR—once a trusted voice for public service journalism, now seen by many as another outlet for partisan commentary. What changed?

Don’t miss this fast-paced episode packed with insight, humor, and sharp commentary.

Note:

Thank you for listening. All these episodes are available on your favorite podcasting platform. For your convenience, they are listed below.

C’mon Jake, Give Me a Break – Also My Personal Connection to Memorial Day

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

As we reflect on Memorial Day Weekend, join me for a deeply personal episode of the Billy Dees Podcast titled “C’mon Jake, Give Me a Break – Also My Personal Connection to Memorial Day.” This episode goes beyond the holiday; it delves into the heart of media accountability and the poignant memories of my father, a proud veteran.

In this episode, I’ll unpack Jake Tapper’s new book, “Original Sin,” and expose the troubling truths behind President Biden’s declining public perception. It’s not just a commentary on politics; it’s about the media’s complicity in shaping narratives that affect real lives. Why did it take so long for many to recognize those warning signs about Biden’s capabilities? Spoiler alert: curiosity and in-depth understanding come from more than just headlines.

You’ll also hear compelling personal stories that bring Memorial Day to life, especially my father’s lasting message about honor and remembrance. His life, marked by sacrifice and strength, has shaped my views on the importance of our military and the everyday heroes among us.

What’s in it for you? Expect thoughts that challenge the status quo, emotional reflections on personal loss, and insights that remind us of the values that Memorial Day embodies. This episode is perfect for anyone looking to engage critically with current events while honoring the spirit of those who served.

Listen to the episode and don’t forget to share your thoughts! Comment below or follow us on social media. Links Here

00:02 – Kickoff to summer reflections
08:04 – Media’s role in Biden’s decline
15:56 – Accountability and medical privacy
23:21 – Personal memories of Memorial Day
36:44 – Honoring my father’s legacy

Times reflect the final podcast version. The live version below on YouTube may be slightly different.

“Are We On a Ride or a Mission?” Discover Key Insights on this Episode

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

In this episode, “Are We On a Ride or a Mission?”, we dive deep into some of the most pressing and controversial topics of the day. (Our guest cohost was Anna Matson.) Whether you have a personal connection to autism, a keen interest in scientific advancements, or an appreciation for spirited conversations, this episode is packed with insights that will resonate.

Join us as we unpack Robert Kennedy’s recent remarks on autism. Did you know that autism statistics have changed dramatically over the years? We discuss why the numbers shifted from 1 in 36 to 1 in 31 and what these figures truly represent. Are we really experiencing an epidemic, or is there more to the story? Hear Anna Matson’s passionate take on how this dialogue should evolve. It’s an exploration that encourages us to consider both sides while promoting a more nuanced understanding of this complex issue. (Follow Anna Matson on X)

We also tackle the controversial profile of RFK Jr. – often labeled a “vaccine skeptic”. Is this a fair characterization? Get ready to rethink the media narratives and how they shape public perception. The conversation goes beyond labels and dives into what it means to engage with differing viewpoints, all while staying grounded in facts.

Plus, we explore the intersection of human intervention in nature. What does it mean to modify genetics? Is recreating once extinct life really a step into the future or a nostalgic trip into the unknown? If you’ve ever felt uneasy about the direction of these advancements, this discussion might solidify your concerns or open new avenues of thought.

Each segment is infused with our signature approach: respectful conversation, lively disagreement, and a commitment to understanding diverse perspectives. Whether you’re wondering how autism awareness affects lives, seeking clarity on genetic advancements, or simply enjoying a thought-provoking chat, this episode has something for everyone.

Don’t miss out on this chance to expand your mind and join the discussion.

Stay curious, stay engaged,

Billy Dees

P.S. Let’s keep the conversation going! Share your thoughts via social media and tag us – we’d love to hear what you think about the topics we cover. This livestream did well on (Twitter) X.

Billy Dees Links

HOPress – Dan Rottenberg – “The Price We Paid”

by Billy Dees, posted in Books, Podcast
Front and back cover of “The Price We Paid.”

Author Dan Rottenberg 

The Price We Paid: An Oral History of Penn’s Struggle to Join the Ivy League, 1950-55 (Shorehouse Books, 2024)

Are you aware of the largely untold stories behind the transition of the University of Pennsylvania’s football program into the Ivy League? In this week’s episode of the Billy Dees Podcast for HOPress, we dive into the fascinating history shared by author Dan Rottenberg in his book, “The Price We Paid.”

Join us as Dan takes us on a journey through the struggles, pain, and ultimate triumphs of Penn players, coaches, administrators, and fans during the turbulent years of the 1950s. Discover the personal anecdotes and behind-the-scenes moments that shed light on this pivotal period in both sports and academic history.

Dan Rottenberg

If you’re a sports enthusiast, a history buff, or simply love a good story, this episode is not to be missed. Tune in now to gain a unique perspective on the intersection of academics and athletics, and explore the invaluable lessons learned from the past.

This episode was produced in partnership with HumorOutcasts.com HOPress Shorehouse Books.

You can find out more about Dan and his work on his website.

The Billy Dees Podcast is available on all major podcast networks. For your convenience, the full interview is below on Spotify.

The Webcam version is below on YouTube.

Jerry Zezima Humor Writer – The Good Humor Man…

by Billy Dees, posted in Books, Media, Podcast

On this episode, we are talking to humor writer, Jerry Zezima. We discuss Jerry’s latest book, ” The Good Humor Man: Tales of Life, Laughter and, for Dessert, Ice Cream,” which is a collection of humorous stories about family and everyday life. The interview emphasizes the importance of laughter and positivity, especially in the current divisive and difficult environment. Jerry believes that humor can provide perspective and help people cope with difficult situations.

Jerry’s writing style focuses on good-natured, self-deprecating humor, and he avoids writing about politics or world affairs. Instead, he writes about everyday life experiences that everyone can relate to. His family is a source of inspiration for his writing, and he often writes about them with warmth and love.

Jerry Zezima

Jerry’s book is a welcome respite from the negativity and bad news that is prevalent today. It is a convenient read for busy schedules, as readers can pick it up and read a few columns at a time. Jerry hopes that readers will find laughter and smiles in his book, providing a positive and harmless escape from the challenges of everyday life.

The podcast can be found on your favorite podcasting platform and below in the Spotify player. We also have the webcam version below on YouTube. You can find Jerry’s blog here.

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