Building a Better Dave

Today I talk about the excitement when Dad would bring home a new LP of Christmas music. For me, I love warm, cozy music. The albums would have different artist but eventually, someone would bust out the horn section and blast my head off. Happy Vegas Christmas - no thanks My favorite Christmas album of all time is Harry Belafonte "To Wish you a Merry Christmas." It's so good it was remastered and released as "Harry Belafonte Christmas" with some additional songs. My Merry Christmas from Geoff Smith (also from PMN) Buy the CD at CDBaby . The opening "What Child is this" by Jimmie Bratcher.

Welcome to the "12 Daves of Christmas" where over the next 12 days I will be relating Christmas themes memories. Today I relive the tale of almost decapitating my cousing Kevin. Please note this picture is not my Grandpa's Hill (his was steeper).

It's been a while. I had to prepare for and then take my final exams and my first semester at Akron University is in the books. FINALLY. Get ready for "12 Daves of Christmas" coming tomorrow! Dave tells about a fun trip to eat at Friendly's. Now we can't complain about children in this restaurant, but if you can't hear yourself think, it's time to take some action and THE NURSE STIKES BACK. MUSIC from the Podsafe Music Network (music.podshow.com ) Hello Operator www.hellooperatormusic.com "So Free" BUY THE EP AT CDBABY.COM

Show #55 from http://www.betterdave.com/ I've been saying "It's going to Get Better" for quite a while. "The Nurse" and I were coming to a crossroads if something didn't change, and we got some great news in regards to my college career (and how long it will last).

NOT ENTIRELY WORK SAFE I'm amazed at the generation gap when it comes to college kids. I guess I was weird as I grew up listening to everything. I listen to Benny Goodman, Glen Miller, Harry Belafonte, The Beatles, etc. Today's kids don't know who Fleetwood Mac is. Oh, I'm sorry I mean "The Fleetwood Mac." I HATE THE DOORS (I believe this is part II on this subject). I couldn't do enough drugs for this to be good. New Podcast "The Logical Weight Loss" podcast at www.logicalloss.com Holiday shopping? www.supporthisshow.com This show originates at www.betterdave.com

The dumbing of America, Teen Pregnancy is now invading my life. I share my thoughts on the subject and what is possibly some of the reasons. Parents still bitter from a divorce want to prove they are the "cooler" parent and in the process throw their child under the bus. Children know that their parents feel bad about the divorce and play on this guilt to get everything they want. I am entitled to this because you screwed up my life by divorcing my other parent. We end up with a society that thinks they get to do whatever they want. There are consequences. There ARE consequences. Yes, it is your fault. No deal with it. Quit using your kids as a weapon, and quit playing your parents against each other. MUSIC Music from the Podsafe Music Network http://music.podshow.com http://www.patmcdermott.com Pay the Price by the Scotty Meyer Band www.scottymeyerband.com Going Shopping? Please Support the show at www.supporthisshow.com Our website www.betterdave.com

NOT WORK SAFE For some people, it was the Beatles on Ed Sullivan. While I grew up watching Glen Campbell, and Tom Jones on TV. I had my Bachman Turner Overdrive albums, but I walked into my brother's room one day and he had put on Wang Dang Sweet Poontang from the Album

Missing the days of comforters and hot chocolate. The joys of living out of a suitcase are slowly eroding my attitude. We take for granted that "Ahhhhh..." feeling of walking into our homes. Until you don't have one (or at least one that is truly yours, where you can put some roots down...) I really hesitated putting out this (and a few other) episodes as they've all been kind of "downers" so I put this out for anyone else who might not be feeling as "Up" as they would like to say "Hey you're not the only one." Hang in there. If it weren't for Mountains we'd never have to learn how to climb. Music - Jim Suhler "Trying to Get Back Home." From the Podsafe Music Network at music.podshow.com Buy the CD and Listen to Samples at cdbaby.com

You will not believe this episode as I take on the subject of Menopause and all the joys that it brings... We also have some listener feedback from Wayne, Rich Palmer (who really liked the episode "Only in America") and Brian Mundy (who really liked "The Truth about Teenage Boys"). Thanks for the comments guys. Keep em coming at 888-563-3228 Check out Muhammad Ali's Auto Biography The Soul of a Butterfly: Reflections on Life's Journey P.S. I also know its October and Not August (I need a nap)...

I heard about this and I thought, "This is a joke." However, it is real. Then when I read about it at www.dietfacts.com I was blown away. I mean if you feed this to your kids is it breakfast, a snack, or child abuse? Only in America.

OK, I just saw a Charmin commercial and we now have Soft and Strong toilet paper. STOP THE MADNESS. have you been down the frozen pizza aisle lately? I lost my organizer. Read that again. The role of the lost and found. Music from the Podsafe music network at http://music.podshow.com www.astepbehind.com "Back in Action" Doing some shopping? Check out www.supportthisshow.com

Dave talks about going to his new school that is 4 times as expensive. See www.betterdave.com/support And we listen to an episode of Dr. Phil. Kind of... Kids get good grades so you can get a scholarship. Parents start saving for college now. I'm unemployed and yet somehow still make too much money. I love our country. Music from the IODA Promo Net http://promonet.iodalliance.com from "Jonesen For Money" by Deacon Jones (Kent Blues) Buy at iTunes Music Store Stream from Rhapsody More On This Album

Look if your kid can't read the menu - LEAVE THEM HOME. That's what Babysitters and grandparents are for! I'm tired of dodging forks during my dinner. Besides your actions are increasing the divorce rate. Would it be too much to ask that you do NOT set your children on fire until you get home? Is life over at 50? If you didn't have sex when you were dating the first 10 years of marriage are bearable, so you have something to do. If you're already discovered each other, then this crying child makes you cranky. You chose to have the kid - accept the responsibility and STAY HOME. There is a place for unruly children. It's called the laundromat.

Teenage boys can be stupid. I talk about a tale that happened right in front of my face, and why I use books to lie to myself. Website is www.betterdave.com Music From the Podsafe Music Network http://music.podshow.com The Leaving Trains "Dumb as a Crayon"

I work with teenagers a lot. I have nieces who are teenagers, my girlfriend has teenage daughters, and I work with the youth of my church. While I realize that saving yourself for marriage may be a pipe dream, I thought I should let girls know what is going on. I should probably let parents know as well that kids are contemplating sex a lot sooner than YOU probably did (as in like 13 and 14 years old). You have your whole life to have sex. SLOW DOWN. These poor girls think they are in love, and this is my way to set the record straight on their Knights in Shining Armor. I don't want you to hate men, but they are raging hormones combined with an insane amount of curiosity. Oh yeah, then there is the whole AIDS, STDs, Abortion thing... Music from the Podsafe music network at music.podshow.com From Slide Show Baby "Moving Too Fast"

Dave talks about having a "hero" moment with "The Senator" (the 10 year old son of his girlfriend). It was an amazing moment. Music From the Podsafe Music Network http://music.podshow.com Superhero from Anthony Stauffer and Holy Smoke

Is it too much to ask all of our new neighbors to learn English? Why do new immigrants not embrace English like the ones who came over in the early 1900s. Dave expresses his frustration about being asked to speak Spanish at his local bank machine Music from the podsafe music network http://music.podshow.com Star Spangled Banner by Trinity Lane The Amercian Holiday Song from BELT

The planet is going down the tubes. Want some very disturbing television to watch? My Sweet 16 or Engaged or Underaged Music from "Life Has Teeth" from the Podsafe Music Network http://music.podshow.com

I recently came across a very unique bathroom experience. You could witness the battle of good and evil all in one place. I was amazed at the craftsmanship, and creativity

Hey, I made it through my first weekend with the new band. Nothing like playing music you've never heard in front of 100 people. Also, the people in these clubs are WASTED. Welcome to sleep deprivation theater as I've had four hours of sleep. Music "Drunk Tonight" from the Bloody Irish boys from the Podsafe Music Network (http://music.podshow.com www.bloddyirishboys.com )

I talk about regaining some weight, and how interesting it is that we all focus on the freaks. It appears the worse we behave the more attention we receive. Why do things that could actually inspire us to do better get little or no spotlight? Music from the podsafe music network at music.podshow.com from Halfway Home "On the Passing of Fairytale Heroes" for more information go to www.foamcd.com

I was tempted to call this Episode "Growing up Brady," but changed my mind. This episode has me remembering one of my most embarrassing moments in life when I had not choice but to go to school wearing two-tone pants. I think you'll find that when you think about life's embarrassing moments, you usually end up learning something in addition to turning bright red. Music from the Podsafe Music Network Jamie Leonhart "Grow"

I talk about getting straight A's for the first time in my life, possibly getting into a new band and a trip to the baseball park with 29 of my closest friends.

Just a quick blurb to let everyone know I'm going to be taking a small hiatus as I prepare for my final exams (a week, maybe ten days). Don't worry. All is well. Musicby Leerone - "All is Well" from the Podsafe Music Network Buy her CD at CDBaby for $6. or for more info go to www.leerone.com

I tell the story of buying a dress for my Mother's 59th birthday. Little did I know that she would be wearing it to her funeral. Now you may wonder why I would share such a personal tale. Because there are plenty of you who have Mothers and ignore them on Mother's Day. You're too busy to put any real time into a gift, a special thought, or card. Maybe you throw her a gift card. I'm telling you that while you have the chance to do more than buy her flowers - DO IT. You'll be glad you did. For there to be a shadow there must first be a light... - The Mom Mother's day is May 13th in the US. Music from the Podsafe Music Network "Mother" from Kevin Reeves Buy the CD at CDBaby.com"Elegy by Gabriel Faure" by Cello Journey

Dave answers some email from Slau, and talks about Women being from Venus and the Genius of John Gray. Actually, it's a good book. A big surprise Dave couldn't find something. John Gray has penned these classics: What Your Mother Couldn't Tell You and Your Father Didn't Know (Hardcover) How to Get What You Want and Want What You Have Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus: The Classic Guide to Understanding the Opposite Sex Mars and Venus Together Forever: A Practical Guide to Creating Lasting Intimacy Children Are from Heaven: Positive Parenting Skills for Raising Cooperative, Confident, and Compassionate Children Mars and Venus Starting Over: A Practical Guide for Finding Love Again After a Painful Breakup, Divorce, or the Loss of a Loved One Men, Women and Relationships: Making Peace with the Opposite Sex Mars and Venus on a Date TONY ROBBINS Awaken the Giant Within Giant Steps Steven Covey The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People The 8th Habit: From Effectiveness to Greatness Music from Superbeing off the Podsafe Music Network "Bright Idea"Buy the single Buy the Album WATCH ED GRIMLEY ON YOUTUBE

I talk about the courage to do the right thing, and the stamina to work through your problems. If you can work through your problems you come out stronger on the other side of them (if you truly work through them and not just push them under the rug). Music "The Weight of Words" by Slau of www.slau.net courtesy of the Podsafe Music Network at http://music.podshow.com Buy the CD at amazon.com

I talk about a lesson he learned this weekend when "The Nurse" seem upset about something that was "no big deal" to me. I also comment on a wedding went to where it was wedding #4 for the Bride. God bless her for having the nerve to get back on the horse. Again and again.... and again. Music from the Podsafe Music Network (http://music.podshow.com ) "Splitsville" brings us the song "Forever" buy the CD at CDBaby.com

Today I discuss the day at his elementary school when all the boys decided to race to determine who was the fastest.... and the slowest. I also talk about some of the lessons of backyard football apply in real life. I found a great tune, and I have to play it for you. The artist's name is Albert Cummings. I love this song. It's called Follow Your Soul from the Album True to Yourself. Buy The Song Buy The Album

Dave takes some time to realize how much time we can waste asking "What if?" Don't get lost in "What-ifville." He also talks about some of the comforting words of wisdom his father shared with him growing up. Music: "What if World" Steve McDaniel from the Podsafe Music Network

Dave talks about "Silent Convulsions" (those time when you're not supposed to laugh - but can't help it). His love of "Literature", his winter coat with 8 million pockets, and the sound of Ozzy Singing Backwards

Dave talks about a recent trip to Toys R Us, and he's noticed that while you're not allowed to judge anyone, everyone seems to be pretty judgemental about Christians.... Music by WII F-in-A, I Love Jesus!

Dave talks about Carpe Diem (and doing everything) vs Doing Nothing Well. Prioritizing, and having a Superman complex. Call in your comments 888-563-3228 . Music "New Day" by Nate McDonough from the Podsafe Music Network

Guys Valentine's Day is here. So I talk a bit about the differences between Men and Women. Guys we have an oppotunity to open up and bust that stereotype about guys not talking about their feelings. You have the opportunity, so take advantage. Being that my Valentine's Day budget is kind of small, I've decided to use my podcast as a present to the nurse. You get to listen in. OPEN VALENTINE TO THE NURSE By Dave Jackson I still feel God has lead you to me, even though I now know you snore. I love you even though you think Spinal Tap is stupid and you refuse to watch The Holy Grail.I love you because your job is life and death, and then you come home and raise three amazingkids with a smile on your face. I love that you are a P A R E N T. I love you when you lie and say my beard looks good. I love the way the fire reflects off your smile. I love you because you forgive me when I forget to call. I love you because waiting in line at a car wash with you is an adventure I love you because no one fills out a black dress like you do. I love you because you don't make fun of the fact that I drive a Toyota echo. I love your patience when I have homework, and I want you to know that I'm doing this college thing as much for you as it is for me. I love pulling into your driveway when I haven't seen you for a few days. It's like Christmas I hate pulling out of the driveway to go home. It's like trying to pull two magnets apart. I love that you don't mind that I interrupt, only to forget what I was talking about. I love the way that you say Yummy. I love that you share your children with me, and that they are thrilling. I love that you don't mind that the top of my desk has not been seen since 2004 and you think thats great. I love you even if you do hate Howard Stern. I love that you know what's inside my heart – no matter what crazy crap I say in this podcast. No matter what kind of trouble you face, I'll always be there even though I'll probably show up late because I got lost…. and didn't ask for directions. I'm not going anywhere now, or in the future. I love right where I'm at. When I hold you in my arms it feels like Home. It's safe, warm, and I never want to leave. When I look into your eyes, I see a future that I've only dreamed of. I know that if you're listening to this thinking of me, that I'm more than likely thinking of you instead of paying attention or doing my homework. I think about you all the time, and by that I mean all the time. Happy Valentine's Day Baby. Please know that I love you and think about you often. If I am in the room while you listening to this, please come jump my bones. MUSICRob Coslow I Do Buy the CD Parlour Dames I Love You CD Coming Soon

Dave talks about his junk, and asks why are bathroom stalls becoming extinct? He talks about his new college classes, appreciating diversity, spanking your kids, and attack of the Britneys and the Walmart Generation. Music by the Gentlemen Losers www.gentlemenlosers.com "God's Perfect Rainbow" from the Podsafe Music Network

Dave goes MOBILE and talks about his very first day of school as he battles whiteout conditions on his way to his first day of College - again. Music - New Day by the Band Glorydive from the Podsafe Music Network. Hear samples and Buy their CD at CDBaby

Dave has a guest in studio as it turns out "The Nurse's" children are checking up on me. Lucky me, they found the masterbation episode. Merry Christmas and happy holidays to eveyrone. Episodes Mentioned: Please Take My Sperm and "She said she'd wear a short skirt, and she did"

Dave talks about his favorite teacher and his retirement party. (Sharon I love you too - his wife). Jim's retirement part was wall to wall people - because he impacted people. You, yes YOU impact people every day. Make it a positive impact Thanks for some great memories JB, you will be terribly missed Now I need to go work on my Emo song A listener suggested we stay away from Joel Osteen and instead check out the book Grace Walk What You've always wanted in a Christian Life or the website www.gracewalk.org Music Learn to Crawl by Black Lab

Dave "comes out" of the closet. He's Christian and explains that if nonchurch going people call Christians "hypocrites" because they are "not like Jesus" then yes - He is a far-from-perfect born-again hypocrite. He shares some miracles he's seen, and talks about if you keep your eyes open, you might see them too. He also mentions he is reading Joel Osteen's book (and recommends it). Your Best Life Now: 7 Steps to Living at Your Full Potential by Joel Osteen

Dave is having a bad day. The holidays are taking its toll. He pulls out his blue "Attitude is everything" card, but even that won't work. However, dating a nurse has its positive effects as he talks about what a really bad day is. My Attitude is EverythingI will not let anyone steal my joy I will not let anyone or anything impact my positive attitude I will overcome, overpower, and overturn all obstacles I can and will handle the challenge I will look further than my vision because I will work by faith, not by sight. I will dream BIG DREAMS. I will be positive. I will move with a sense of urgency and stay committed to my goals. I will check and recheck, balance and counterbalance, reassure and be measured to the highest standard of excellence. I will not give up, let up or look up to the fear of defeat. I will never forget wo I am, where I cam from. I realize this day, this moment, is truly a blessing. My Attitude... is Everything! www.keithharrell.com Music Steal Away by Edwin Holt purchase at CDBaby.com

Dave shows off his new announcer Scott "Mr Podcheck" Fletcher. Check it out at http://voice.caraworks.com/ Dave gives his input on a homeless person he met in Cleveland. Its the same old scam he's heard time and time again. MUSICTold Me Lies From Stefani from "Pieces" by Stefani Atomic K Records Buy at iTunes Music Store

Sleep Deprivation Theater Returns! CHRISTMAS EXPOSED!Dave talks about Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and It's a Wonderful life. Hermie the Elf Gay? How about Charlie in the box? Why did people want him to "Come out?" Is it true that George Bailey was into Rape Sex Games? Get 6 Christmas Classis on One DVD MusicBeau Hall "Oh Face" and "No Sleep Funk" Buy Beau's CD at CDBaby

Dave talks about the theory of controlling yourself. You may think you can't (but you probably do it every day). Music (from the IODA Promonet) from "Cuntree" by Shat Buddyhead Records Buy at iTunes Music Store The Fire Apes - "It's Over" (courtesy of the Podsafe Music Network) But their CD at CDBaby.com or find out more about them at www.thefireapes.com

Dave talks about his child hood and some of the television he was forced to watch. He also unveils what might possibly be the world's worst Andy Rooney imitation. Music: "Clean" by Matthew Casteel (www.matthewcasteel.com ) Comments: 888-563-3228

Dave talks about a nurse who is a "keeper" and ponders the actions he is taking to "court" her and notices that many of the "nice things" he does now (at the beginning of a relationship) he failed to do at the end of his marriage. Maybe we should all look at our actions in the "Gah Gah" stage of a relationship, and some of those to our relationships. Comments: 888-563-3228 So This Is Love Inflight Blue Pie Productions Buy at iTunes Music Store "Movin on " (intro music) at www.tubbfunk.com

Dave is having a bad day. Do you have anything in your life you KNOW is a mistake? I pondered not publishing this episode as its not my usual "Positive Upbeat" approach to life, but I thought I'd show I'm human and have bad days along the way

Dave talks about how he has lost 15 lbs. It's all about commitment. He explains what is working for him in terms of weight loss. It's all about making the right choices. Do you have the ability to commit? Music Moose "Fat Fun" from the Podsafe Music Network