Living The Next Chapter: Inspiring Conversations w

EPISODE 663 - Tad Crawford - A Woman in the Wild - A revealing and memorable portrait of a woman boldly facing her demons in pursuit of a meaningful life Tad Crawford is an author, attorney, and publisher. He grew up in the artists’ colony of Woodstock, New York. Interested in writing both fiction and nonfiction, he majored in economics at Tufts College and graduated from Columbia Law School. After clerking for a judge on New York State’s highest court, the Court of Appeals, Crawford worked for a small general law firm in New York City while writing and teaching writing and literature at the School of Visual Arts. Finding few resources to help artists deal with legal matters such as copyrights, the sale and licensing of art, gallery and publishing contracts, income taxes, moral rights, and estate planning, Crawford initiated a “Law and the Visual Artist” course at the School of Visual Arts and wrote Legal Guide for the Visual Artist. Legal Guide now has well over one hundred thousand copies in print and is in its sixth edition (co-authored with M.J. Bogatin). Crawford followed Legal Guide with numerous other books to help professionals in the creative disciplines. The Legal Affairs editor and a regular columnist for Communication Arts magazine, he also wrote for journals such as American Artist, Art in America, Confrontation, Family Circle, Glamour, Guernica, Harper’s Bazaar, The Nation, and Writer’s Digest. He served as general counsel for the Graphic Artists Guild, lobbied as legislative counsel for the Copyright Justice Coalition (which had many artists’ groups as members),  and volunteered as Chairman of the Board for the Foundation for the Community of Artists. In addition to testifying before the Senate subcommittee on behalf of artists’ rights, he drafted a package of state laws which he presented to the National Conference of State Legislatures. This presentation led to the enactment of laws favorable to artists in a number of states, including New York and California. The National Endowment for the Arts selected Crawford as a grant recipient to write on the topic of artists’ rights. He also received the Graphic Artists Guild’s Walter Hortens Distinguished Service Award. In 1989 Crawford founded Allworth Press to offer the practical information needed by creative professionals such as artists, photographers, designers, and authors. He knew firsthand the issues such creative people face each day and envisioned a spectrum of books to help them survive and grow professionally. Beyond these efforts for creative professionals, he also wrote The Secret Life of Money: Enduring Tales of Debt, Wealth, Happiness, Greed, and Charity; A Floating Life: A Novel; and On Wine-Dark Seas: A Novel of Odysseus and his Fatherless Son Telemachus. Allworth Press, which today has hundreds of titles in print, became an imprint of Skyhorse Publishing in 2011. Crawford is a partner in Skyhorse Publishing and remains the publisher for Allworth Press. https://tadcrawford.com/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

EPISODE 662 - JMD Reid - Ghost Writer and Fantasy Indie Author - What Masks Hide, The Storm Below Series and more Hi, I’m JMD Reid, a fantasy indie author working on my third fantasy series, What Masks Hide. I have published the widely praised The Storm Below Series and a releasing my second series, Secret of the Jewels. For my day job, I’m a ghostwriter. It gives me great deal of freedom to work on my fantasy. It’s my passion, and I hope that will shine through. I have a lot of stories in my head and I’m looking forward to sharing them with you. https://www.jmd-reid.com/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

EPISODE 661 - Leah Polworth - The heartbreaking news of a terminal diagnosis and the aftermath of sorrow, longing, confusion, and the heartache after loss Welcome to “Letters to Billy.” This memoir is my legacy. Journaling has always been a means for me to track my most heartfelt thoughts, deepest emotions, epiphanies, and reckonings. I am so pleased I persevered and published this memoir, which was initially intended to be something I could pass down to my son, Billy, when he becomes old enough to read and understand it. As I delved deeper into writing about my husband Steve’s cancer journey—the knowledge we gained, the decisions we had to make, and the trials and tribulations along the way—it became apparent that my story might resonate with and provide comfort to others whose lives have taken a similar path. This book explores many themes: finding your soul mate, the wonderful man my husband was, the fleeting yet precious time we were blessed to have as a family, and the heartbreak of a terminal diagnosis. It captures hope, doubt, fear, tenacious love, and the short but intense journey through treatment, followed by the aftermath of sorrow, longing, confusion, and heartache after loss. Suddenly, I found myself a single parent needing to raise a young baby amid crushing grief, to the moments of peace, clarity, and reflection as the grief tide slowly ebbs and joy returns once again. I hope you find comfort, solace, and perhaps some inspiration from our story. Thank you for joining me on this path of self-discovery and healing. Book: Letters to Billy: A story of love, loss, lessons and self-discovery Leah and Steve Polwarth seemed destined for a lifetime of joy. They married in 2017, and by 2019, their hearts swelled with the arrival of their son, Billy. But it wasn't long before their perfect world fell apart - Steve was delivered a life shattering diagnosis. Despite their unwavering hope and desperate fight, Leah was forced to say a heartbreaking goodbye to the love of her life, leaving her to navigate the suffocating grief of widowhood while raising their son in the midst of the global chaos of the COVID-19 pandemic. Letters to Billy is a raw and emotional journey through unimaginable loss, yet it is also a celebration of a mother's unbreakable love, fierce resilience and the powerful bond between a mother and her son. In the face of devastating grief, Leah finds a way forward, discovering moments of grace and uncovering the beauty that can still bloom, even in the darkest of times. https://letterstobilly.com.au/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

EPISODE 660 - Gary Lippman - Author of immense vision, caustic wit, and wry compassion for the human experience About Gary Lippman Born and raised in New Jersey, Gary Lippman received a law degree from Northwestern University and has worked with New York’s Innocence Project. Lippman’s play Paradox Lust ran off-off-Broadway for a month in 2001 and his writing has been published in The New York Times, The Paris Review, VICE, Fodors, Upstate Diary, Open City, Sex And Design, and 8 By 8, while his visual art can be seen at apocalippy.com. Having lived in Illinois, Florida, California, and France, Lippman can now be found in what used to be called “Fun City” with his Hungarian wife Vera and his whenever-he’s-inclined-to-visit adult son Gabriel. https://garylippmanofficial.com/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

Episode 339 - Trunnis Goggins II - We Explore Purpose, Passion, Planning, and Persistence for ultimate personal development Welcome to "The 4Ps of You" podcast, your gateway to a transformative journey of self-discovery and personal growth. I'm your host, Trunnis Goggins II, and I will be guiding you towards unlocking your full potential. In this podcast, we'll embark on an exploration of the four fundamental pillars that shape your path to success: Purpose, Passion, Planning, and Persistence. Throughout this series, we'll delve into the profound impact of each of these principles on your journey. We'll uncover how understanding your Purpose can set the stage for remarkable achievements. We'll explore the vital role Passion plays in igniting innovation and driving dedication. We'll dive into the strategic art of Planning and discover how it can turn your dreams into actionable steps. And we'll uncover the unwavering power of Persistence in overcoming obstacles and achieving greatness. https://www.the4pspodcast.com/ Published: Mar. 15, 2024 ____ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

EPISODE 659 - Leokadia George - Meet Trumpet the Miracle Wolf Pup From The Wolf Conservation Center in New York Leokadia George started volunteering at the Wolf Conservation Center in 2016 where she was introduced to the world of wolf conservation. She also became inspired by one particular Mexican Gray Wolf nicknamed Trumpet, and is honored to be able to share her story. At the Wolf Conservation Center, while the workers are worried about the endangered species of Mexican Gray Wolves, two wolves who live there just want a pup of their own. Sadly, there are no puppies yet, and everyone has begun to give up hope. Based on true events surrounding the miraculous birth of one wolf pup at the Wolf Conservation Center, “Trumpet the Miracle Wolf Pup” will fill your whole family with hope, while starting a conversation with your kids about the importance of saving endangered species. REVIEWS “Especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library Wildlife themed picture book collections for children.” – Midwest Book Review “Beautifully illustrated throughout with the artwork of Maddy Moore, ‘Trumpet the Miracle Wolf Pup: Trumpet Becomes a Mom’ from author and storyteller Leokadia George is an informative and fun read from cover to cover.” – Midwest Book Review “Parents will love Trumpet the Miracle Wolf Pup by Leokadia George, which is not only adorable and heart-warming, but also a touching story that educates children about the importance of protecting endangered species. It is sure to become animal lovers’ go to children’s book!” – Stacy Padula, award-winning and best-selling author of On the Right Path, Gripped, and Montgomery Lake High “I bought this book for myself, a supporter of reintroducing wolves back into the wilderness. It is a delightful story about an alpha pair of wolves at the wolf center in New York. The center was trying to breed them. No spoiler here. The illustrations are soft and sweet, and the story is uplifting . I recommend this book. It’s a neat story, and proceeds support the wolf center in New York.” – Abby S., Amazon Reviewer “I just love this children’s book. Finally not the big bad wolf story generations have grown up with. You will fall in love with Trumpet and her family. Beautifully illustrated, easy for children to read. I want to read more beautiful Trumpet and her family.” – Marlene B., Amazon Reviewer “A beautiful book written about a very special Mexican Gray Wolf by the name of Trumpet! Based on a real Mexican Gray Wolf living at the Wolf Conservation Center, this tells the amazing story of conservation work behind the scenes! Written by someone who works behind the scenes and has first hand experience, I found the book to be very educational (for myself!) and a wonderful introduction for children to the modern world of conservation science. Would highly recommend!” – K. Weeks, Amazon Reviewer https://brileybaxterbooks.com/author-leokadia-george/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

EPISODE 658 - Jennifer Elwell Comeau - Four Specific Images, One Story, Ireland in 1820 and Untold Family Tales What happens when a high-powered engineer walks away from corporate life to follow a dream rooted in ancestral wisdom, music, and the magic of nature? Follow my journey of transformation, where I’ve aligned my gifts - storytelling, songwriting, speaking, and mindful walks in nature - with the needs of the world. Stepping back in time, I grew up one of eight children just outside Buffalo, New York. Following the dictates of family and societal programming, I jumped into the world of engineering, earning a Masters of Engineering from University at Buffalo, and a Bachelors of Industrial Engineering at General Motors Institute, now Kettering University. After decades working as an executive for manufacturers in the auto industry and then in information systems, I returned to my early love for how words, music, nature, and beautiful places can enliven the whole landscape of a life. I began to write songs, and stories — speaking and performing them throughout the country, and soon, narrowed my focus to align with my reverence for Earth. https://www.jennifercomeau.com/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

EPISODE 657 - Sue William Silverman - Selected Misdemeanors - Essays at the Mercy of the Reader Sue is the author of four memoirs: How to Survive Death and Other Inconveniences, forthcoming, March 2020, the Unversity of Nebraska Press, American Lives Series; The Pat Boone Fan Club: My Life as a White Anglo-Saxon Jew, the University of Nebraska Press, American Lives Series; Because I Remember Terror, Father, I Remember You, winner of the Association of Writers and Writing Programs Award Series in Creative Nonfiction. Her memoir Love Sick: One Woman's Journey through Sexual Addiction was also made into a Lifetime TV Original Movie. Her craft book is Fearless Confessions: A Writer's Guide to Memoir, and her poetry collections are If the Girl Never Learns and Hieroglyphics in Neon. As a professional speaker and writer, Sue has appeared on many nationally syndicated radio and TV programs including The View, Anderson Cooper 360 on CNN; a John Stossel Special on ABC-TV; CNN-Headline News; the Montel Williams Show; the Ricki Lake Show; and the Morning Show with Mike and Juliet. She was also featured in an episode of "The Secret Lives of Women" on WE-TV. Sue was also interviewed by Rich Fahle for PBS Books. https://www.suewilliamsilverman.com/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

Episode 656 - Diana Harmon Asher - Author of Sidetracked, Upstaged, and Trouble Finds Evie Lefkowitz I’m Diana Harmon Asher, the author of Sidetracked, Upstaged, and the upcoming Trouble Finds Evie Lefkowitz. It took me a long time to get a book published. A really long time. There were a lot of “no’s” before I got to “yes.” But I kept writing and I kept learning. Finally, I wrote Sidetracked, and the answer was “yes!” One of my teachers used to say that every character you create contains a piece of yourself. I definitely share a lot of worries with Joseph, and I’d like to think I’m a good friend like Heather. I’m an opera fan like Grandpa and I love Inishbofin sheep and Dickens, like Mrs. Fishbein. I hope I have some of Cassie’s goofiness in me, and like Paul, I’ll never fit in with the cool kids. I share Shira’s shyness, some of her stage experience (see photo) and a lot of her stage fright. Like my newest character, Evie, my father was a cantor at our synagogue (something you’ll find out more about in the book), and he passed away when I was young.  But also like Evie, I was surrounded by love and good friends. I never really did get into a lot of trouble…but maybe I should have! I hope I share Evie’s resilience, her optimism, and most of all, her sense of humor. Writing itself makes me happy. But knowing that readers are enjoying my books is even better. I love when kids identify with Heather, or when a student proudly announces that they have ADD just like Joseph. I love the thought that some of you might be encouraged to strive for your own personal record, audition for a show, try out for a team, stick up for an old friend, and be open to new ones. And I hope all of my stories give you a few chuckles along the way. I look forward to meeting and hearing from more of you in the months and years to come! https://dianaharmonasher.com/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

EPISODE 655 - David Boop - Speculative fiction author of sci-fi noir, historical, dark fantasy & the Weird Westerns David Boop is a Denver-based speculative fiction author & editor. He’s also an award-winning essayist, and screenwriter. Before turning to fiction, David worked as a DJ, film critic, journalist, and actor. David’s novels run the gambit, such as the sci-fi/noir She Murdered Me with Science; The Soul Changers, a historical, dark fantasy tie-in to Rippers Resurrected; and the Weird Western mosaic novel, The Drowned Horse Chronicle. He co-authored, with NYT Bestselling author Kevin J. Anderson, a near-future graphic novel series called Travailiant Rising. David edited the bestselling and award-nominated Weird Western anthology series, Straight Outta Tombstone, Straight Outta Deadwood and Straight Outta Dodge City. He’s currently working on a trio of Space Western anthologies starting with Gunfight on Europa Station. He’s editor on the forthcoming Jack L. Chalker Well World tribute anthology. David is prolific in short fiction with many short stories including media tie-ins for Predator (nominated for the 2018 Scribe Award), Deadlands, Kolchak the Night Stalker, The Green Hornet, and Veronica Mars. He’s a summa cum laude Graduate from UC-Denver in the Creative Writing program. He temps, collects Funko Pops, and is a believer. His hobbies include film noir, anime, the Blues and the Old West. https://wolfpackpublishing.com/pages/about-david-boop https://www.longshot-productions.net/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

EPISODE 10 In this episode of Living the Next Chapter we speak with Author and retired NYPD, Vic Ferrari about his multiple books giving readers a behind the badge view of life as an NYPD Officer and Detective. Author Vic Ferrari is a retired New York City Police Department detective with the hamstrings of a twenty-year-old. A survivor of an Irish father and Italian mother, Vic loves a cold beer and insists on you removing your shoes when entering his home. When he's not writing, he's picking up after his neurotic Irish Wolfhound. Always looking to save a buck, Vic splits his time between Branson, Missouri, and Papua New Guinea. We talk to Vic about the following books: - Grand Theft Auto: The NYPD’s Auto Crime Division - NYPD: Law & Disorder - NYPD: Through the Looking Glass: Stories From Inside America's Largest Police Department - The NYPD's Flying Circus: Cops, Crime & Chaos Vic also shares a special portion of the podcast of his memories on 911 when New York was rocked by the horrific events that shocked and changed the world.  Vic was there and shares with us stories that you might not have heard before. Vic is writing another book and we hope to have him back again to share his latest project in the future! Living The Next Chapter podcast produced by TrueMediaSolutions.ca Published: Mar. 26, 2022  Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

EPISODE 654 - Linda Ambrus Broenniman - The astonishing story of eight generations of her Jewish ancestors Linda grew up in Buffalo, New York. She is the middle child of seven born to Hungarian physicians who survived World War II and started their new life in the U.S. in 1949. Linda graduated from Swarthmore College with a BA in psychology and went on to get an MBA from Carnegie Mellon. Several years after graduation, she left mainstream corporate America to follow her path as an entrepreneur. She let her passion for uncovering hidden potential in unexpected places guide her. And she allowed this passion to fuel the search for her hidden family. A Wilbur Award recipient, Linda is a GenerationsForward speaker for the Holocaust & Human Rights Education Center. Linda lives in Great Falls, Virginia with her husband, Ed, of 30 years and their dog, Juno. Book: The Politzer Saga In this rich narrative, Linda Ambrus Broenniman’s search for truth becomes a remarkable epic – part memoir, part biography, part history – that illuminates the Hungarian Jewish experience over the last 300 years. Linda finds her family: doctors, lawyers, bankers, entrepreneurs, writers, musicians, art collectors, and philanthropists. And learns of the ir resilience in surviving religious persecution, wars, epidemics, and economic upheavals. By telling their stories, Linda could honor the memories of her lost family. And she learns how finding your roots helps anchor your own place in the world. https://politzersaga.com/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

Episode 653 - Alan Mueller - Improv Comedy and the Art of Leadership - Reading The Room and Active Listening A sought-after keynote speaker and leadership trainer, Dr. Mueller blends deep expertise with engaging storytelling to spark real change in organizations. As Senior Consultant at Adaptive Challenge Consulting, he draws on decades of experience spanning finance, sales, higher education, and hospitality management to deliver practical, high-impact leadership development. Dr. Mueller is the author of Leading with Emotional Intelligence and the TEDx speaker behind “Doing the Math: How Do We Measure Privilege.” His work is grounded in intercultural intelligence, helping executives and teams lead boldly across difference. He is also a Myers-Briggs Certified Interpreter, who teaches teams how to unlock the power of this tool to understand how leaders and followers can work better together. What sets Alan apart? A background in professional improv comedy. For nearly a decade, he performed with an award-winning troupe—and now teaches organizations how to use improv to strengthen executive presence, build trust, and supercharge collaboration. Whether in the boardroom or on the stage, Dr. Mueller is known for his authenticity, inclusion, and sharp sense of humor. He equips leaders not just to manage complexity, but to rise and thrive within it. Improv Comedy and the Art of Leadership explores the connections between improv comedy techniques and leadership. This book skillfully borrows key improv concepts and connects them with the critical skills and competencies needed by leaders. https://www.adaptivechallengeconsulting.com/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

EPISODE 652 - Randee Dawn - Journalist, Author, Storyteller - Short Stories, Non-Fiction and Standalones I’m a Brooklyn-based author and journalist focusing on speculative fiction across the categories (science-fiction, fantasy and horror) at night, while writing entertainment and lifestyle stories during the day for publications including Today.com, Gold Derby.com, Variety, The Los Angeles Times and Emmy Magazine. You may have seen my name in other publications over the years, including Soap Opera Digest and The Boston Phoenix, E! Online, New Musical Express and Mojo. I contributed to a French book about American television, Les Series Tele and co-authored (with Susan Green) The Law & Order: SVU Unofficial Companion. I’ve got a fair amount of short fiction in anthologies, and authored the short story/poetry compilation Home for the Holidays. I’m currently  represented by Bridget Smith at JABberwocky Literary Agency, and I frequently appear at conventions and workshops on panels and to give readings. My first novel, Tune In Tomorrow, was published by Solaris/Rebellion in 2022 and re-issued with additional bonus content in 2024 via Solaris Nova. Arc Manor will publish my next two novels in 2025: The Only Song Worth Singing (April) and Leave No Trace (August), and Solaris Nova will publish my follow-up to Tune, We Interrupt This Program in spring 2026. Currently, I reside with the love of my life with a lot of books and never enough mangoes. No, I don’t have a fox, but if you want to meet a fox like this or donate to their care, JAB Canid Education and Conservation Center can help. https://randeedawn.com/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

EPISODE 651 - Mark J Wilson - Full of Beans - A dead professor. A missing student, And a time-traveling detective. Mark is a scientist who works in gene therapy and very foolishly decided he had to write a novel about a time-traveling detective in his spare time. I live in Washington, DC with my wife, Carrie, but I was born and brought up in Reading, England. My favourite place in the world is in the Cotswolds, just down the road from Oxford (where most of Full of Beans is set). I went to college in Canterbury where I studied biochemistry and got a PhD. I have worked in biopharmaceuticals for the last 35 years or so. I’m currently working in gene therapy, helping to develop a much-needed cure for Rett Syndrome. I worked in Nottingham and Cambridge before moving back to Reading (so it can’t be all bad, right?). Then I came to America in 2009. It does seem like a drastic move just to get out of Reading again. I lived in North Carolina for 7 years before moving to the DC area. Growing up in Reading gave me a fascination with trains and planes, being as how there wasn’t much else there to interest a kid. I loved hanging around at the west end of Platform 5, and when Concorde would fly over. And there was a Model Shop. I loved the Model Shop. And Eames’ model train shop. My dad gave me lifelong passions for astronomy, physics, chess, cooking, and model-making. And I love model trains. Over the years, in my spare time, I’ve also been a watercolor artist and a music producer. I love electronic dance music. Full of Beans is my first published novel and it is dedicated to Carrie and her coffee machine, which would constantly instruct us to “Fill Beans,” whether the hopper was full or empty. Without either of them this book might never have been written. It took over two years to write, on the weekends and holidays, and I learned a lot about writing. I heard they are bringing back Clippy... ‘I see you’re writing a novel. Do you need help with that?’ I did need help, but instead I have relied on some actually talented hooman-beans for that. The book was an editor’s nightmare to work on. We chose British English spellings (like ‘colour’) and phrases (such as ‘bugger off’) to go with most of the settings and characters. However, we also chose to go with the Chicago Manual of Style for other stuff like punctuation, rather than the Oxford Guide to Style. Sorry Oxford. Please check the CMOS before levelling criticism at the editing; it was a heroic effort. Thanks Kevin and Avery. Feel free, however, to debate the choice to liberally use the Oxford comma. And to jolly-well split some infinitives. And start sentences with conjunctions. If strict British grammar is your passion, rather than a fun read, then hard cheese. It isn’t meant to be bloody Shakespeare. I’m sure there’ll be a new Booker Prize nominee along any minute now. The artwork was accomplished with help from artlist.io, using its Comic Noir algorithm and many, many attempts, amalgamations, and many hours of editing images to get what I wanted. The book cover was a team effort with Joe and Michelle. https://markjwilson.com/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

EPISODE 650 - Jeff and Andy Crocker - Mister and Mischief - Mister and Mischief - Infinite Right Answers When you’re asking big questions, chasing connection, and reminded why you started making things in the first place We're pretty fun and we think you are too. Mister & Mischief (a.k.a. Jeff and Andy Crocker) create fun-forward interactive experiences designed to delight audiences and turn strangers into pals. Mixing games, theater, and comedy into playful, participatory events, Andy and Jeff are passionate about increasing the visibility of immersive design and audience-empowering art wherever they go. Infinite Right Answers Part creative manifesto, part behind-the-scenes brain dump, and part choose-your-own-reflection, this zine explores the deeply human art of making stories with your audience, not just for them. Whether you’re an artist, educator, producer, or general play-loving human, Infinite Right Answers is a companion for the moments when you’re asking big questions, chasing connection, and need to be reminded why you started making things in the first place. Coming in October 2025. https://misterandmischief.fun/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

E649 - Roger Chiocchi - From Advertising Executive to Author, The Brushy Ridge Militia - Parents Take Gun Control Into Their Own Hands About the author Eclectic is a word that aptly defines Roger Chiocchi. Constantly questioning, How does it work?, Chiocchi graduated from Ithaca College and then the Wharton School (MBA) with distinction. He then rose through the ranks at mega-agency, Young & Rubicam, to Senior VP where he ran the advertising campaigns for Advil, TWA, AT&T, Sears (the “Softer Side of Sears” campaign), among others. He then went on to eventually become President of Y&R subsidiary, The Lord Group, where he helped transition NYNEX to Bell Atlantic then to Verizon, while bringing in new accounts like The Sports Authority, the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism, and HIP Health Plans. Chiocchi regards himself as a perpetual student, constantly scouring YouTube for lectures on astrophysics, quantum mechanics and human consciousness and whatever else suits his fancy next. But why not? His appetite for knowledge is eclectic. How a School Shooting Turned Suburban Parents into Federal Criminals. Book: The Brushy Ridge Militia is about how the intersection of grief and helplessness leads a group of parents to become so enraged after a mass shooting to conclude that enough’s enough, compelling them to commit a major act of civil disobedience. After progressing through the many stages of grief, the parents of the deceased children of Brushy Ridge, Ohio High School lobby Congress to pass tighter gun control legislation. When they attempt to meet with conservative Speaker of the House, Fred Grantham, he refuses and walks right by, emotionless, as they stand outside his office, displaying pictures of their precious children. At that point, they conclude enough’s enough. Upon return to their hometown, the parents feel like they’ve banged their heads against a wall. Why when over half of Americans want stricter gun laws, even after the tragedies of Sandy Hook, Columbine, Marjory Stoneman Douglas and, now, Brushy Ridge, why won’t Congress budge? Hank Patrick, an attorney and father of one of the deceased students, tells them it’s because of twenty-seven ambiguous words called the Second Amendment. While many gun advocates hide behind those words to protect their right to unfettered access to guns of all types, those words say nothing of the sort, Patrick explains. What they do say is that Americans have the right to form citizen militias to fight a government that has become tyrannical. They decide to be true to the words of the Second Amendment as originally intended and form a citizen’s militia, The Brushy Ridge Militia, and scheme to take Speaker Fred Grantham hostage until he agrees to bring more reasonable gun legislation to the floor. By surreptitiously following Grantham’s moves and cleverly evading the FBI, the parents intercept Grantham at an apartment building in DC and bring him to a spot in rural West Virginia where no radio transmissions are allowed. For four days, they force him to watch the security cam video of the shooting and morgue shots of their cherished children. Finally, he agrees, but shortly after, recants. https://www.facebook.com/RogerChiocchi/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

EPISODE 648 - Chester L Richards - From The Potato to Star Trek and Beyond, Smithsonian Institution, Being A Monster Chester L. Richards Aerospace Engineer (Ret.), Inventor, Adventurer, Author, Storyteller, Romantic The philosophy developed by Chester L. Richards, aerospace engineer, adventurer and inventor (19 patents), has indeed caused him to view all that comes his way as an adventure. Even a visit to the hospital! (Look for stories about these surprisingly entertaining forays into Deep Space Medical soon in his blog, "Stories.") That attitude took shape early. In college, a bit after those early escapes from being thoroughly roasted by The Great Potato's molten lead flinging tricks, Chester and friend Judy Burns co-authored a spec script for “Star Trek” on a lark. The story, “The Tholian Web,” became one of the series’ most popular episodes. A veteran writer advised the young man, “You should write….write your passions.” “But I have nothing to say,” Chester thought.  That was the moment he decided the real message was to fill his life with adventures. And he did — adventures in surfing, learning and performing music, travel to exotic places for river rafting, and his work as a rocket scientist. Along the way, he’s always met fascinating characters. He did write — essays (over 50 have been published so far). At the house in Thousand Oaks he and his late beloved  Sarah once shared, he brought himself back from the brink of despair by writing the hair-raising adventures Sarah loved, and that continue to occur, though as the author says, he no longer has much hair. Book: From The Potato to Star Trek and Beyond Book: The Trek Continues: More Memoirs of a Rocket Scientist https://www.chesterlrichards.com/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

EPISODE 647 - Christine Devane - Elephant Beach - A Children's Book That Talks About Being Shy and Being Open to Others  About the author Christine grew up in North Andover, MA with her parents Tony and Joyce and brothers Anthony and Eddie. She was very shy when she was young and spent a lot of time reading. Throughout her childhood Christine loved animals, especially elephants. People started to buy them for her as a collection. Her grandparents, Eddie and Ginger, as well as her parents would bring her back lucky elephants from their trips. Throughout her childhood Christine always enjoyed trips to the beach with her family and grandparents. In 2006 Christine graduated from Merrimack College with a bachelor’s degree in English and a minor in Elementary Education. In 2008 she received her master’s degree in Elementary Education from Merrimack College. Christine would then go on to teach elementary school for the next 13 years. Her favorite part of the day was reading to her students. It was during reading time that she connected with her students through books. They learned, laughed and felt a range of emotions together. Christine decided that she wanted to write her own book for students to engage with, while learning and laughing. Since elephants have always been her favorite animal, she found it fitting to include them in her story. In 2017 Christine traveled to Africa with her mother and husband where she was able to see elephants living in the wild, which was always a lifelong dream. Many of the elephants were playing in the water and seemed to be having fun as they appear to in her book. Christine and her husband John have 3 children- Joey, Nick and Adeline and a dog named Sophie with whom she loves to read with. They laugh at her stories and enjoy trips to the beach together as a family. Book: Elephant Beach - A young girl is expecting a quiet, peaceful beach day of reading—but she’s in for some disappointment. It turns out elephants love to play, especially at the beach! At first, the girl is annoyed when the elephants break her beach chair. Then, they block her sun amidst other loud and distracting shenanigans. Soon, though, the girl becomes intrigued by the elephants’ playful nature. She still tries to read, but their games continue and can’t be ignored. Having a change of heart, the young girl joins in when the elephants play volleyball. She surfs huge waves and even helps the elephants when they are scared. The young girl came to the beach to be alone, but she now finds herself surrounded by new friends. The silliness of these gentle giants amuse her, and what was once a plan to find some peace turns into a feast of fun! Come along to Elephant Beach, where distractions are welcome and adventure arrives with each and every wave. https://www.christine-devane.com/ Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

EPISODE 646 - Chef Franck Desplechin - Relentless Growth - Cultivating a Chef’s Mindset for Professional Fulfillment Most people simply know me as or simply call me Chef Franck; and that is exactly how I like it. Over time, "Chef Franck" has become more than just a name; it is a reflection of the way I show up in everything I do, with heart, passion, and a relentless commitment to grow and improve. Behind the title is a lifetime dedicated to the craft of hospitality: My career began in the kitchens of Brittany, France, where I trained under Michelin-starred chefs who demanded nothing short of excellence. Those early years forged a deep respect for precision, discipline, and creativity. As I grew, my path took me beyond the kitchen, leading and mentoring teams, building businesses, and evolving with one constant: a love for creating meaningful connections. From fine dining restaurants to luxury hotels and entrepreneurial ventures, every chapter has been a pursuit of one thing: creating meaningful experiences that stand the test of time. It has become so much more than food or leadership. It is about connection, transformation, influence and the pursuit of something greater than the work itself. It is the energy you bring into a room, the standard you set without saying a word, and the respect you earn by how you show up day after day. Cheffranck.com was created as an extension of that spirit, a way to connect directly, without layers or filters. A place where craft, leadership, and authenticity meet opportunity. Whether it is building unforgettable workplace culture, strengthening teams, or guiding personal and professional growth, my mission remains the exact same: to elevate, to inspire, and to leave every place - and every person - better than I found them. This is not just what I do. It is who I am. I have never been one to follow a straight path; mine has been forged through pressure, uncertainty, reinvention, and an obsession with meaningful growth. What began in a small kitchen in Brittany at the age of 15 has become a lifelong pursuit of mastery, resilience, and purposeful leadership. From chasing Michelin stars in France to leading five-star operations across the Pacific and the U.S. I have learned that excellence is not found in the title, the awards, or the prestige; it is in the process. I have “failed”, started over, worked in languages I did not speak, and rebuilt my identity more than once. Along the way, I have grown from an apprentice with a dream to a chef tested by fire, an hospitality executive with a broader vision, and now, a founder, CEO and author driven by the same hunger I had on day one; but with far more perspective. Today, my work lives at the intersection of precision, purpose, and transformation; guiding teams, leaders, and organizations to rise, evolve, and deliver at the highest level. Not because it is easy, but because it is worth it. Book: Relentless Growth - Cultivating a chef’s mindset for professional fulfillment What if the only thing standing between you and true professional fulfillment was your mindset? Relentless Growth: Cultivating a Chef’s Mindset for Professional Fulfillment is my answer to this problem, offering a bold and practical blueprint for both emerging and seasoned hospitality professionals who want to thrive—not just survive—in one of the most demanding industries in the world. Support the show ___ https://livingthenextchapter.com/ podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/ Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca