On Mic Podcast

Time for some laughter and insight into the world of standup comedy! Today’s guest is Tom Cotter who took the comedy scene by storm since becoming a breakout star on Season 7 of America’s Got Talent. Tom hails from New England and is constantly on the road entertaining large crowds in clubs and corporate events. Known for his rapid fire delivery and exceptional timing, he is a master craftsman who lets us in on what life is like these days for a top flight comic!

Meet Dr. Kris Verburgh, internationally renowned expert on longevity and the future of medicine. He is a medical doctor, researcher and author of many important books including, “The Longevity Code.” Join us as Dr. Verburgh tackles issues such as why we grow old and offers practical tips on slowing down the biological clock while maximizing wellness.

On today’s episode we take a virtual trip to the moon! Created by Lightroom and Paquin Entertainment Group, The Moonwalkers is debuting in Boston this summer. It is a thrilling an video experience brought to life using rare NASA archival footage, cutting-edge spatial audio, and moving storytelling by the one and only Tom Hanks who also co-wrote the piece. My conversation with CEO Richard Slaney of Lightroom will whet your appetite for adventure! Find out more at www.lightroomexperiences.com.

Meet Stephen Dalton, an accomplished actor and voice-over artist who also happens to be a gifted Irish storyteller. I discovered Stephen quite by accident, while looking for the perfect guided meditation to help me sleep. Finding Stephen Dalton’s “Sleep Stories” on YouTube did the trick! His series has helped me and thousands around the world achieve a more restorative and restful sleep. Stephen modestly states that his goal is to send joy and peace out into the world. Stephen’s podcasts and YouTube channel continue to attract a larger international audience. When you check out his work you will know why. His writing, vocal styling and sincerity shine through every story, making listeners feel safe and relaxed as they drift to sleep. Learn more about this talented artist who uses the power of gentle storytelling to help so many!

For more than twenty-five years, Quantum Health has been defining the field now known as healthcare navigation. Our guest today is Kara Trott, whose goal was to ensure that no patient go through the difficult healthcare journey alone. So she rose to the challenge, established a billion dollar plus business that is now an established leader in the healthcare space. She writes about it in her memoir, “No One Alone: Humanizing Healthcare as an Outsider.” Quantum Health has certainly made a difference in the lives of countless people, with dynamic leader Kara Trott at the helm!

Marschall S. Runge, M.D., Ph.D., is the executive vice president for Medical Affairs at the University of Michigan, dean of the Medical School, and CEO of Michigan Medicine. He earned his doctorate in molecular biology at Vanderbilt University and his medical degree from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, where he also completed a residency in internal medicine. He is the author of more than 250 publications and holds five patents for novel approaches to healthcare. Today we talk about his new novel, “Coded to Kill: A Techno Medical Thriller.” It is a supercharged fictional story about how advancing technology in medicine is exploited with by a power hungry cabal and the offbeat cybersecurity team out to stop them. A tough book to put down!

Today we honor a cultural film icon. We present the story of actor Robert Shaw. His nephew Christopher Shaw Myers shares much about the British artist’s family upbringing, his talents as a novelist and playwright and Robert Shaw’s impact on screen in such films as “Dr. No,” “A Man for All Seasons,” and of course the classic summer blockbuster “Jaws” premiering fifty years ago. Shaw was a complex, often troubled man whose brilliance in limited screen appearances was evident. Learn more about this devoted family man from his nephew who offers up an endearing and fascinating biography!

Boston based filmmaker and screen writer Eric Aronson joins us to talk about his feature directing debut, a comedy thriller heist film called “Any Day Now.” Billed as a “true-ish” story, the movie is inspired by the actual events of March 18,1990, when $500 million worth of priceless art was stolen from the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. The art has never been recovered and there still exists a multi-million dollar reward for its return. Eric is an independent filmmaker with quite the creative spark that extends to how he has been marketing his movie. Get set to go behind-the-scenes with an innovative writer-director!

Today we sit down with Saleema Vellani, who believes in the power and promise of innovation. She has written a fabulous book about it entitled, “Innovation Starts With I: Increase Your Influence. Ignite Your Impact.” Her life mission is to serve entrepreneurs globally and she is well on her way to accomplishing that!

Dr. Otello Stampacchia is a globetrotter of the first order, traveling around the world as the head of investor relations and strategic initiatives for his firm Omega Funds. He is heavily involved in several of Omega’s therapeutic areas of interest, particularly oncology and inflammatory disorders. Omega’s investments have resulted in over 50 life changing drugs, approved and on market. Join us as we talk about various aspects of the ever-changing health care industry with a scientist/investor who is tops in his field!

John Rinaldo is a passionate writer who shares his love for writing through published books and daily inspirational stories on Substack at rinaldoj.substack.com. John uses these platforms to offer insights and experiences about life purpose and intentions. His latest book is entitled, “Dancing Letters: A Boy’s Journey Through Words and Strength.” It’s a semi- autobiographical novel about overcoming the struggles and challenges of dyslexia. John’s story is uplifting and positive, a must-read for anyone touched by dyslexia!

Kim Carrigan, a native of Missouri, has made New England her home for decades, establishing herself as a respected and popular TV news anchor and radio personality. She currently hosts her own podcast, “Carrigan and Company,” as well as a weekly business show on WRKO in Boston. Kim continues to give of her time as a volunteer with numerous non-profits and believes strongly in helping local community organizations thrive. An exceptional talent, Kim understands media and the importance of objectivity in delivering the news!

What a delight welcoming my old friend Harry Castleman, co-author along with Walter J. Podrazik, of “Watching TV: American Television Season by Season, Fourth Edition.” Their book encompasses several eras of American television from the early days of broadcast TV, all the way through cable, and now streaming. Considered the gold standard chronology of American television, it is chock full of fun facts, firsts, insights and exploits. A conversation with Harry is always memorable!

Today’s guest is very much a member of the Damon Runyon school of characters. Charles Farrell is not only an accomplished jazz pianist, he has also been a key player in the boxing world for decades. From Floyd Patterson to Don King and scores of managers, promoters and celebrities to the fighters – both champs and bums – he knows as much about the “game” as anyone. Charles shares his insights in his new pseudo-memoir entitled, “The Legend of ‘Mitch Blood Green’ and Other Boxing Essays.” One doesn’t have to be a boxing fan or know much about pugilism to appreciate and enjoy his story!

As today’s guest Dr. Margie Warrell often says, “ Our biggest problems don’t stem from what we cannot do. They stem from not doing all that we can do.” On this episode we discuss the principles in her latest book, “The Courage Gap: 5 Steps to Braver Action.” Challenges confront all of us. Dr. Warrell offers insight into how courage can be summoned leading to lessened fear and insecurity and a brighter, more happy life.

The game is on and it’s the real deal! Meet Sean Hope, serial entrepreneur and the driving force behind The DX Arcade concept in the Boston area. His idea is catching fire. From the newest virtual reality games to age-old classics, Sean knows that we want to share fun, exciting in-person experiences with friends and co-workers. The DX Arcade is proving to be the perfect place to do just that. We talk with Sean about the gaming industry and how what’s old is new again in a super cool way!

Today we meet an extraordinary person who does so much to help so many. Naomi Eisenberger heads up The Good People Fund. Founded in 2008, The Good People Fund provides financial support and management guidance to small and mid-sized, highly effective non-profits, headed by dynamic Good People who are devoted to tikkun olam (repairing the world). It is a pleasure to share conversation with Naomi, a tireless supporter of those in need!

So happy and honored to present conversations with trusted voices, such as today’s guest Brooks Moore. Brooks is an Emmy award winning director and producer who is also an in-demand voice-over talent. Fans all over the world know him for his narrations of one of the most popular programs on the Discovery Channel, “How It’s made.” He’s been the voice of that show for decades and teaches people from all walks of life how to improve their speaking skills, increase revenue and create impact. Meet a folksy guy who “has it made” and shares great stories!

J.D. Pincus is a renowned psychologist and researcher specializing in human motivation, our emotional needs, and personal development. He pioneered the unified pyramid model of human motivation and the AgileBrain measurement technique ( www.agilebrain.com). Dr. Pincus is the author of, “The Emotionally Agile Brain: Mastering the 12 Emotional Needs that Drive Us.” Meet one of the top psychological experts on “the emotional needs revolution” and prepare to discover aspects of your own agile brain!

Meet Alfred Engelberg, the author of “ Breaking the Medicine Monopolies: Reflections of a Generic Drug Pioneer.” The book is a personal narrative about Alfred Engelberg’s fifty years of legal work in the drug industry. He takes you inside the mysterious world of patents to provide a basic understanding of how drug makers have gamed the laws governing brand and generic competition. Hear how Albert and others made a huge difference in our lives by making generic drugs more accepted, available and affordable!

Atlas Aultman is an accomplished leader in many fields. He is a former U.S. Military Commander, Special Ops Director, White House Military Lead and Combat Zone decision maker. He is a best-selling author, Ted Talk speaker, and the host of his own podcast series that brings to light stories of men who have conquered major life challenges. A self-described Christian man who leads with respect, Atlas shares some of his experiences in leadership both in and out of the military. Enjoy a frank conversation about the challenges for not only our troops, but for anyone navigating life today. Atlas has a lot to offer about finding hope and developing resiliency, a positive message in these challenging times.

Dance for Parkinsons (www.danceforpd.org) invites people of all ages to harness the benefits of dance to transform their lives and enhance well-being! Meet program founder and professional dancer David Leventhal who, along with his colleagues, has developed collaborative partnerships among Parkinson’s, arts, and medical organizations in cities around the world to create robust opportunities for the Parkinson’s community. Research proves that exercise is one of the best ways to limit the progression of Parkinson’s. Hear how David’s innovative development of dance programming not only provides fine health benefits, but is also great fun!

The Amphibious Tractor Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit focused on raising money to build a memorial at the National Museum of the Marine Corps. The memorial will honor Amtrac Marines who manned U.S. Marine Corps Landing and Amphibious Assault Vehicles since 1942. Our guests today are members of the team driving mission forward – Colonel John B. Atkinson, USMC ( Ret) National Commander, Marc R. Chabot, USMC (Ret), and Peg Lee spearheading the art and design of the future memorial. These are dedicated people who continue to serve our country and fellow Marines. The Association continues to educate the general public and Marines, ensure this legacy endures, recognize and reward exceptional Marines, and support the education and hardship needs of Marines and their families over time.

Today we get down to business with the help of James Whitman from www.growthguidepost.com. He is the author of a dynamic new book on how to grow businesses and foster success entitled, “Launch Code: The Playbook for Continuous Growth.” Make this the year you celebrate entrepreneurship and career success. James offers practical, common sense advice designed to empower you to win!

Brad Meltzer returns to share news about his latest book, “The JFK Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill Kennedy – and Why it Failed.“ Along with co-author Josh Mensch, Brad sends up another suspenseful non-fiction thriller, a story that many of us had know knowledge of, and an event that would have changed history. Brad Meltzer is a best-selling novelist, TV producer, comic book creator, children’s author and historian. When Brad joins me on the podcast, he never disappoints!

Mike Baker spent approximately 15 years with the CIA, working as a covert field operations officer specializing in counterterrorism, counternarcotics and counterinsurgency operations. He’s been in most of the world’s dangerous hotspots, working with others to defend America. In 2022, Mike began hosting a news and geopolitical commentary podcast called “The Presidents Daily Brief”, which covers national security related matters in the news, providing a roundup of the day’s events. The name is a reference to the President’s Daily Briefing in which the President of the United States is given intelligence updates each morning. It is an honor to welcome Mike as he shares his views on the challenges for America in the coming decade.

What a joy it is to meet and feature fellow podcasters doing important work. That is the case with today’s guests Matt and Monica, who recently launched “The Matt and Monica Podcast” sharing stories of vulnerability and resilience of inspiring guests as well as themselves. This husband and wife team travel far to interview incredible people, many of whom are first responders and veterans who have sacrificed so much for so many. The podcast has been life affirming for Matt and Monica and their growing audience, including your humble host, who fully supports their mission!

Let’s put on a show! There is nothing more exciting than live theatre. One of the most historic and venerable ones in the Boston area is The Regent Theatre in Arlington. Longtime director Richard Stavros recently retired and a new leader has taken over. He is Harvard computer science professor David Malan. David and I discuss his innovative plans to revitalize the theatre through the introduction of what he calls “educational theatricality.” This will involve streaming community and educational programs adding to the theatrical experience. The show will go on!

Meet Jennifer Jukanovich, co-author along with Russell West of “The Culturally Conscious Board: Setting the Boardroom Table for Impact.” Their goal is to transform the culture of boards across the spectrum–from the local cancer nonprofit to the multinational anti-poverty NGO. Using their tested “Board Culture Placemat,” the authors provide “Conversation Starters” to make mentionable the often-silent role board culture plays in a board’s decision-making habits. It explains how board members can positively shape board culture, especially in crucial decision-making moments. Respecting the culture, being responsible and adhering to an ethical value system is a sound formula for any organization’s success!

On today’s episode, we cover “science and the arts.” Dr. Robert Kellan is a renowned ophthalmologist with over 60 years in medicine. He also has an active creative side. Besides being an accomplished painter, Bob is also a playwright with several well received plays to his credit. We explore the magical essence of live theatre and how this playwright breathes life into his characters and ideas!

When a sinister cyber-terrorist plot is poised to plunge the U.S. into devastating digital darkness, one man, an experienced cyber forensic expert takes on the challenge of stopping the evildoers. We welcome novelist and technologist George Mehok who delivers a fast-paced thriller called, “Going Dark: A Liberty Unit Novel.” The tech is real and will make you think about the lengths that terrorists will go. Luckily, there are homegrown heroes protecting us. The novel has an alternate historic timeline dating back to the Revolutionary War that is equally as exciting!

Today we celebrate the holiday season in style with Dr. Quentin Schultze, the author of “You’ll Shoot Your Eye Out: Life Lessons from the Movie A Christmas Story.” For the first time, Quentin Schultze, who taught storytelling with screenwriter Jean Shepherd, reveals the “secret” parables that Shepherd included in his screenplay for A Christmas Story. Now you won’t need a decoder ring to learn why the Old Man’s leg lamp is his “trophy wife,” why the bully is named “Scut,” why there is a “Bumpus” in all of us, why Mom and the kids give a “Bronx cheer” after singing “Jingle Bells” in the Olds, and so much more.

‘Tis the season for charitable giving. Of course it is not just during the holidays. Pretty much year round, folks are tasked with asking (on behalf of their non-profit group) for money. Most of us don’t exactly enjoy that or do it well. So let me introduce you to someone with a solution. Meet Barrie Atkin, who with over 25 years of consulting experience, has served hundreds of clients in human services, sports, technology, healthcare and publishing. And she is the author of a handy book with an appropriate title, “Hate Fundraising? : How to Become Comfortable Asking for Money.” Believe me, with Barrie’s help, the it will get a lot easier! To learn more about Jordan, go to https://chartproductions.com.

Meet celebrated author Crystal King as we discuss her new book, “In the Garden of Monsters,” a fresh twist on the ancient love story of Hades and Persephone. It is Italy, 1948. A woman with no past. A man who seems to know her. And a monstrous garden that could be the border between their worlds. If it sounds intriguing it is with added presence of artist Salvador Dali and a bevy of epicurean delights. Crystal has crafted a story for the ages! To learn more about Jordan, go to https://chartproductions.com.  

Meet Deb Podlogar, a.k.a. “The Mocktail Mom.” Deb is the author of a new book called, “The Happiest Hour,” and she is all about encouraging people to have fun drinking without the alcohol. Hear about her relationship with alcohol that needed to come to an end, culminating in the launch of her as the “Mocktail Mom.” She has whipped up dozens of delicious, cocktail recipes so if you’re thinking it’s just the same old “Shirley Temple,” think again. This mom is adamant when she proclaims, “Who said you can’t be part of the party if you’re not drinking?” Find out more at www.mocktailmom.com!

Today, we open up a fascinating conversation with John Penrose, a successful entrepreneur brimming with creative ideas. He is currently leading the talented team behind Agile Brain. This software introduces us to a fast and fun image-based assessment tool that unlocks the power of human emotion. John talks about a revolutionary new way to gauge emotional intelligence and understanding. Agile Brain has many applications and the process only takes about three minutes. Check it out at www.agilebrain.com!

It’s a return visit from one of my favorite guests, movie aficionado and author John DiLeo. He’s written several entertaining books about film and his latest is terrific fun for any level movie fan. It’s entitled, “Not Even Nominated: 40 Overlooked Costars of Oscar-Winning Performances.” Join us as we stir up many fond movie memories and shower you with rare Hollywood inside stories!

George Regan has been a leader in the public relations field for over four decades. He was one of the youngest Boston Globe reporters in the paper’s history, covering hard news starting in his late teens. George later became a Boston fixture as a top aide to Mayor Kevin H. White. He is a well-respected figure in the Boston business community and has represented some of the area’s most iconic brands including the Boston Celtics, Boston Red Sox, and New England Patriots. He has also worked tirelessly over the years for dozens of charities and philanthropic programs. There’s no better story-teller than our guest, so you’re in for a treat!

Meet first-time novelist Dee Mallon. Her creative time is split between writing, quilting, and paper and digital collage. She also leads writing workshops. After learning about a historical character named Eliza Lucas Pinckney in a book about eco-dyeing, Dee set out on a writing mission of her own, authoring a book that captures the essence of slavery in South Carolina in the 1740’s. And it does so in a most innovative way. After more than a dozen years of research she completed her captivating novel, “The Weight of Cloth.” She joins us today to talk about it!

Welcome to episode 450. My thanks to so many of you for subscribing and supporting the podcast. In celebration of this milestone, I present a champion athlete who never shies away from challenge. Meet Todd Vogt, champion rower, who has dedicated himself to the sport of rowing for decades. Six years ago, when Todd turned 44, he was diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s Disease. As devastating as the news was, it didn’t take Todd long to get back on the water and focus on winning. He recently participated in the 2024 Para Olympics in Paris and continues to train and mentor young rowers. Todd is a reminder to us all that in life, the most important way to row is forward!

Longtime journalist Rachel Zimmerman suffered an immeasurable loss when her husband, an MIT professor and proud father of two, committed suicide by jumping from the Tobin Bridge in Boston. Her grieving is obviously intense, but she took it upon herself to probe just how something like this could happen to her family and countless and others. The result is her critically acclaimed book entitled, “Us, After: A Memoir of Love and Suicide.” While uncertainty remains, there is much to learn as Rachel explores the many aspects of suicide and things we can do to recognize the warning signs and hopefully prevent it.

When it comes to pop culture, Gary Sohmers is one of my “go-to” guys! He is not only a collector of just about everything, but Gary knows the intrinsic value of comics, records, toys and more. You name it, he knows it. He has made dozens of appearances as an official appraiser on the popular PBS TV “Antiques Road Show,” has produced hundreds of concerts and theatrical shows and has worked with countless celebrities. You’re about to meet a guy who is pretty serious about life’s fun stuff!

Meet the best-selling author Dava Sobel who writes stories about science and the people who have unlocked the world’s greatest mysteries. From her international hit “Longitude” to the Pulitzer Prize finalist “Galileo’s Daughter” she has woven compelling tales about people, many of them women, who have changed our world for the better. Today it’s a conversation about her newest project, “The Elements of Marie Curie: How the Glow of Radium Lit a Path for Women in Science.” Dava is a master storyteller as you’re about to discover!

Today, a discussion about the ever evolving Middle East crises. Noted historian Daniel Pipes, the author of “Israel Victory: How Zionists Win Acceptance and Palestinians Get Liberated,” joins us to offer a new approach to the problems. Dr. Pipes believes it is time for a radical change in the way both Israel and the Palestinians approach their security and self-determination. The Palestinians must finally stop their rejectionism of Israel while the Jewish state can no longer afford to offer conciliations that consistently backfire. We explore the definition of victory, both on and off the battlefield, that could lead to peace.

As promised, here is a second conversation with journalist, film producer, teacher and author Dale Pollock. On this episode, from a Galaxy Far Far Away, I speak with Dale about his biography, “Skywalking: The Life and Films of George Lucas.” It is an in-depth look at the man who immeasurably impacted the film industry. I was honored to record the audio book version released this summer. May the Force be with you!

Joining us today in the first of two interviews is author Dale Pollock. Dale is a seasoned journalist, movie producer and film professor. On this podcast, we talk about his book “Chopped: A Novel,” a vintage crime novel about the infamous Webster-Parkman trial in 1850 Boston, involving a heinous murder case that captivated the nation.

James Deary, a successful business entrepreneur and family man. never wanted to be a psychic medium. This ability more or less “happened” to him. His first near-death experience occurred when he was two years old. At age eight, he saw his first apparition. Soon thereafter, psychic experiences became commonplace. Looking back, he was always a clairvoyant who could see Spirit, but the sensing, knowing, and hearing Spirit developed over many years. He has published a memoir entitled, “The Birth of an American Medium.” Jim has never been in it for profit, he is as regular a guy as anyone. He just happen to have certain gifts and offers evidence that the experiences are real. A fascinating conversation awaits!

Running legend Dave McGillivray has inspired millions of people through his work as an entrepreneur, philanthropist, motivational speaker, author, and athlete. Dave is best known for his athletic feats including his 80-day trek across the United States, running the 3,452 miles from Medford, Ore., to Medford, Mass. in the summer of 1978 to benefit the Jimmy Fund, not to mention marathoning across seven continents in seven days! But wait, there is more. Dave has received acclaim for directing or consulting on more than 1,400 events throughout the world including the Boston Marathon, the Olympic Marathon trials, and the Olympic Games. We ‘ll focus on a series of children’s books that tell his remarkable story!

Dr. Patricia Muehsam is the Founder of Transformational Medicine and the author of “Beyond Medicine: A Physician’s Revolutionary Prescription for Achieving Absolute Health and Finding Inner Peace.” Join us as we explore exciting new developments in health and healing, many of them based on millennia-old traditions. Dr. Trish discusses the incredible power of the human mind in realizing radiant health. She introduces us to healers and some of their remarkable curative talents. And she offers hard science with clinical proof that inner peace is achievable and essential for absolute health.

Meet a proud young mother of two who decided to publish her first children’s book, one that will teach valuable lessons and entertain not only her own family but children everywhere. Khushbu Sikaria is the author of “The Lollipop Fairy,” a story of collaboration, creativity and (of course) candy, that shows just how kids can modify a habit or behavior by tuning into their imagination.