On Mic Podcast

Lesli Suggs has had a long and distinguished career as a highly-trained social worker. She continues to give back in her role as President and Chief Executive Officer of The New England Home for Little Wanderers. The Home began centuries ago and each year, its community based programs and residences meet the needs of more than 15,000 diverse youngsters and family members. These children are often society’s most vulnerable, victims of trauma, violence or shattered family lives. We are happy to showcase the important work that Lesli and her dedicated team are doing for our kids! The Home for Little Wanderers

On today’s episode we enter into conversation with Tony Jones, author of “The God of Wild Places: Rediscovering the Divine in the Untamed Outdoors.” Tony is a former clergyman who continues to explore ideas of faith and spirituality. He’s written several books, has his own podcast and is an in-demand speaker. Join us as we investigate one man’s take on how he has connected to God amidst the awesome wonder of nature.

Get ready to meet an incredible young man named Noah Dines. He is without a doubt a dude on a mission, shattering records on his quest to ski 3 million vertical feet in one year! He’s doing it solely through self-powered climbs, without ski lifts, on mountains all over the world. It’s a story of motivation and determination guaranteed to inspire!

On today’s episode we meet the author of one of the most explosive thrillers of the year. Andrew Bridgeman has penned a suspenseful book entitled, “Fortunate Son,” which will have you reading well into the night. It’s a story of a vast conspiracy on the part of a powerful, secretive cult intent on overthrowing the American government. There are surprises around every corner as Bridgeman has crafted a novel centered around a rookie FBI agent, our heroine, who is certain to return in future novels!

Meet Claire Berger, one very funny and thoughtful lady. For over four decades, Claire Berger has been earning a living as a comedian, improv actor, speaker and writer. She began her career in Chicago with The Second City and found big laughs in Los Angeles, earning acclaim as a warm-up comedian on over sixty five of your favorite sitcoms, including Seinfeld. She is the author of a brand new memoir called, “How Much is Enough? Getting More by Living With Less.” Her innovative mashup of memoir and self-help genres invites audiences to join her in the search of Enough in all aspects of our lives. You will smile a lot along the way!

Today’s guest is a neighbor of mine in Boston who has as family name known to thousands of sports fans. Greg Agganis is a relative of the late Harry Agganis, “The Golden Greek,” a star college football player and a promising first baseman for the Boston Red Sox in the mid 1950’s. Harry’s life was tragically cut short in his mid-twenties. This revered player was beloved and upon his death was mourned nationwide, sadly robbed of a long life and surely a Hall of Fame future. Greg and the Agganis family honor Harry through the work of The Agganis Foundation, named for the legendary athlete from Lynn Classical High, Boston University and the Red Sox. The Foundation’s mission is simple: to provide college scholarships to deserving student-athletes.

Meet “Warrior Monk” Krishna Thapa whose life is a testament to service and resilience. Raised in the Nepal Himalaya beneath Annapurna, he joined the British Gurkha at 19, later becoming the first to pass selection from the Royal Gurkha Rifles ( RGR) into the vaunted British SAS (Special Air Service). With 26 years of front-line service in Afghanistan and Iraq, Thapa’s roles included mountain specialist and mental health advocate. He’s climbed Mt. Everest and K-2 and holds the Guiness World Record for leading the largest group to ever summit Mt. Everest. Hi path inspires people and organizations all over the world, promoting courage, control and connection. Enjoy my conversation with this extraordinary man of service!

It’s a joy to welcome long time friend Jenny Lynn Metevia to the podcast. Jenny is a beloved spiritual teacher and clairvoyant who since childhood has had the “second sight. “ She continues to nurture her relationship with the spirit world fulfilling her mission to “help the children of the stars.” We will talk about past lives, signs and symbols from the other side and Jenny’s belief in the healing power of The Universe. Learn more about Jenny Lynn at her website www.jennymetevia.com. Also on her website is a link to the guided meditation “State of Grace” produced by Jordan! Get ready for a fascinating conversation!

Lauren Birmingham who brings people to Italy in fine fashion with https://www.cooking-vacations.com/ has written a beautiful “espresso” table book destined to become a classic. Join us as we talk with her about “It’s a Dream Place: Stories and Recipes of Food, Love and the Amalfi Coast.” Beautiful photographs, recipes and heartwarming family stories set in a magical place!

I have invited my good friend Bill Powers back to the show to discuss key elements of the First Amendment, a newsworthy topic considering current national and world events. Bill is a retired Massachusetts State Police Officer with a stellar career in law enforcement. He’s the author of several books and hosts his own podcast highlighting celebrated investigations, police procedure and other aspects of criminal justice. Find out more at www.powersonpolicing.com.

If it is motivation you’re seeking, look no further than today’s guest. He’s Nick Klingensmith, author of the memoir, “Through the Fire: The Story of the 4-Time Cancer Survivor, Type-1 Diabetic, and Recovering Alcoholic Who Became an Obstacle Course Racer and Defied It All.” Nick shares his incredible story of success as a Spartan, overcoming daunting physical and mental challenges. He is an in-demand advocate for pushing forward and never giving up. Check out www.stridemotivation.com!

Ann Marie Sabath is a multi-talented communicator and writer. Her latest project is a book that explains money and investing in easy to understand language entitled, “The Wannabe Investor: 40 Must-Know Facts Before Buying Your First Stock.” Prepare to learn a lot and get excited about investing with our dynamic guest!

Meet Glenn Cort, author of “Letters to Mikey: Messages of Hope and Optimism.” We tell the story of a concerned loving parent who crafted a birthday letter to his son that evolved into an inspiring book. Glenn offers insight into what drove him to seek out, fully research and reintroduce the wisdom of leading historical figures, from the ancient philosophers to our Founding Fathers to bold leaders of today, all of whose ideas about life have set the framework for a thriving civilization. Glenn believes, and many agree, that today’s generation of young people are adrift, desperately searching for hope, optimism and direction. “Letters to Mikey” is one man’s mission to help his son and all children make sense of our world and better navigate the future!

It is always great to welcome back an old friend who loves movies as much as he does. Lon Davis returns to talk about his latest book, ‘Stumbling Into Film History,” a look back at his teenage years when he was lucky enough to meet and befriend many legends of the silent screen. Lon recalls time spent with actors, most of whom the current generation is in the dark about. Well, thanks to our friendly film historian Lon Davis who recounts stories of Hollywood in its infancy, these early stars jump off the page and come back to life. And for movie lovers, their stories will certainly strike a chord!

About one million Americans are currently living with Parkinson’s disease. It is the second-most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s disease. Nearly 90,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed each year and in 2023, I joined the ranks with my own PD diagnosis. With April being Parkinson’s Awareness Month, I thought it right to present an informative and inspiring podcast about Parkinson’s impact, the research and progress in the search for better treatments, and the attention to lifestyle changes ( nutrition, sleep and most importantly exercise) that can mitigate symptoms and lead to a more full and active life. My guests include Cathi Thomas, RN, Assistant Clinical Professor of Neurology and Director of the Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorder Center at the Boston University Medical Campus and Brett Miller, founder of 110 Fitness Center in Rockland, Massachusetts. 110 Fitness is the first of its kind inclusive wellness center for individuals afflicted with Parkinson’s and other developmental or physical disability. Brett leads us in Rock Steady Boxing, a proven athletic therapy for PD, but there is a lot more to learn about what he and his team are doing to help the community. As always I wish you the very best and remember to be well, so you can do good! – JR. www.bumc.bu.ed/parkinsonsdisease/center, www.110fitness.org, www.parkinson.org, www.michaeljfox.org, www.davisphinneyfoundation.org

I’m so happy to welcome Mike Christian, who has brought his radio show What’s @ Risk back to the airwaves in Boston. Mike has also launched a podcast as well. He has a successful background in insurance and risk management with deep experience that allows him to delve into array of current social, economic, environmental, cultural and business topics in this uncertain time in the world. Mike also believes strongly in giving back. He and his wife founded the Someone Else’s Child Foundation, which addresses disparities by connecting young people with opportunities to help them live, learn, grow and engage as contributing members of their community. www.someoneelseschild.org

Dr. Elizabeth Comen, MD, is a highly esteemed oncologist and medical historian empowering women to lead healthy and joyful lives. She presents a fascinating history and examination of women’s health as it’s never been told before in her groundbreaking book, “All in Her Head: The Truth and Lies Medicine Taught Us About Women’s Bodies and Why It Matters Today.” It is an honor to share this important research with my audience!

Meet independent film maker Raouf Zaki who writes, produces and directs meaningful, inspiring films that help bridge the gap between cultures. He is an award winning filmmaker whose work makes audiences think as it opens their hearts. His latest is entitled, “Dream,” having its world premiere at the Maynard Fine Arts Theatre in Maynard, Massachusetts on April 14, 2024. https://www.maynardfineartstheatre.com/events/

Melissa Fetter had a dream to build a classic stand-alone bookstore in the heart of downtown Boston. The Pandemic didn’t stop her, neither did the naysayers who said bookstores are a thing of the past. Beacon Hill Books is thriving, attracting scores of readers weekly. It’s a success story we are thrilled to share!

Today’s episode deals with the alarming rise of virulent antisemitism across the world and here at home, much of it in the U.S. unfolding in our classrooms and on college campuses. We take a close look at antisemitism as it is currently unfolding, the role social media plays in spreading lies and hate, the moral equivalency argument many in academia and government are making during current Israeli-Hama war, why antisemitism has had a resurgence particularly among younger demographics and positive ways to address the issue. We have two outstanding guests joining us. Scholar-Warrior Dr. Rachel Fish co-founded the nonprofit Boundless organization boundlessisrael.org, a think-action tank partnering with community leaders across North America to revitalize Israel education and take bold collective action to combat Jew-hatred. Robin Friedman is a co-founder of Tribe Talk www.tribetalk.org. Tribe Talk provides resources for high school seniors so they can research and compare Jewish life on multiple college campuses. Tribe Talk also provides critical resources and support for Jewish students encountering discrimination and antisemitism.

Brad Fawley is a first time novelist whose debut novel “The Frontrunner” is terrific! It’s the story of Russ Clayton, a distance runner who craves the secret to transcending pain. He teams up with a renegade running coach to take on the hardest challenge, both on and off the running track, in his young life. A human story of endurance and hope, this is novel that is sure to take hold.

Join us for a fascinating chat with one of the best music critics and interviewers in the business. Meet Jim Sullivan who has written for the Boston Globe and other prestigious publications. He’s gifted us with some of his best encounters with musical icons in “Backstage and Beyond: 45 Years of Classic Rock Chats and Rants,” Volumes 1 and 2. From Jerry Lee Lewis, Roy Orbison, Pete Townsend, Tina Turner and David Bowie to The Cars, The Ramones, U2, Leonard Cohen and more. Jim is a fabulous writer and one great storyteller as you’re about to discover!

Beginners and professionals train with a champion! When it comes to boxing no one knows “the game” better than Dave Sullivan. Trained by the legendary Eddie Futch, Dave has a long record of hard fought wins and titles. Now, he gives back as a teacher and mentor to people of all ages and abilities. Join us as we talk pugilism and more with this dynamic gentleman of the ring!

Good friend Jimmy Tingle is a popular standup comic, actor, writer, producer and political satirist. From his work in comedy clubs to The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson to 60 Minutes 2, Jimmy has been a consistent presence on the national scene, bringing laughter and joy to millions. He has the rare distinction of winning Boston Magazine’s “Best of Boston” awards in two different categories-as a performer in the “stand-up comedy” category and the venue he founded and served as artistic director- producer Jimmy Tingle’s OFF BROADWAY, was named “best alternative theater” in 2007. He also founded a successful social enterprise entitled Humor for Humanity. As he says, “Our mission is to use comedy, commentary and conversation through social media, radio, television and live events to raise spirits, funds and awareness for non-profits, charities and social causes. Our Mission is Their Mission”

Meet Leah Rososvky, Director of the Boston Athenaeum, one of the country’s oldest and most distinguished independent libraries, with a circulating collection of over half a million books, from works published in the 1800s to the latest best sellers. Special collections include active research holdings of 100,000 rare books, maps and manuscripts, and 100,000 works of art, from paintings and sculpture to prints and photographs. The Boston Athenaeum isa national treasure – a unique combination of library, museum, and cultural center in a magnificent landmark building.

Meet the author of “Rage of the Jinn,” an incredible heart-pounding thriller that sweeps up readers, taking us to dangerous hotspots where strong and dark mythical forces threaten all of humanity. Luckily there is an elite team of CIA agents out to save us. If it sounds exciting it certainly is. All thanks to the imaginative author Ox Devere, a pseudonym for the novel’s writing duo including my podcast guest Parker Jamison.

Benjamin Zander has been a groundbreaking leader in the classical music field for decades. Founder of the Boston Philharmonic and the Boston Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, Maestro Zander has an undying love and respect for classical music, having performed and recorded all over the world. We will be highlighting upcoming Boston Symphony Hall shows in our conversation today along with his adoration for Gustav Mahler and the impact of classical music on the soul, truly inspiring!

The Optical Heritage Museum in Southbridge, Massachusetts has thousands of fascinating items within their collections and displays including microscopes, Lensometers, and of courses glasses from every era. It features incredible science that has benefited our lives as well as a look at eyewear fashion trends over the last couple of centuries. Join us as we take you on a tour with Debbie Schiro from the Museum!

Meet Dr. Kedar Gupta and his wife Renu, immigrants originally from India who are a true American success story. Dr. Gupta is the author of “Carving My Destiny: Lessons From My Entrepreneurial Ventures.” Kedar shares valuable business and life lessons he’s learned while developing many successful companies. He and his colleagues are credited with playing a major role in sparking the solar energy revolution.

We welcome Dr. Letise Lafeir, The New England Aquarium’s first Chief Conservation and Stewardship Officer. An expert on ocean issues and ocean policy with aquarium experience, Dr. LaFeir comes to the Aquarium from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), where she served as Senior Advisor. Join us for a discussion about sea life and the need to safeguard a most precious resource -our oceans. Learn about the vital ongoing conservation work by the dedicated team at the New England Aquarium!

The Escape Room phenomenon is sweeping the country. And it is certainly popular here in our stomping grounds Boston. Today we feature Jason Loeb, one of the founders of Trapology Boston. The concept of solving puzzles to “escape” from any number of clever and entertaining scenarios brings people together for device-free entertainment, giving groups of friends an immersive, interactive, and FUN activity to do together!

On this episode meet The Tea Maestro, Bruce Richardson, Founder of Elmwood Inn Fine Teas of Kentucky. Bruce is a contributing editor to TEATIME Magazine, has written several books on the subject of tea and serves as the Tea Master for the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum. He is undoubtedly one of the top authorities when it comes to tea. Bruce and I have brewed up quite an interesting conversation for you about the world’s most popular beverage. Now, did you want one lump or two?

Happy New Year to all! One of the smartest resolutions we can all make this time of year is to stop procrastinating. Today’s guest has fine advice as to how we can take command of our financial wellness and plan effectively for retirement. Financial advisor Aviva Sapers, along with co-author Andrew MacDougall, has written, “Someday Is Not a Day of the Week: Unlock Your Financial Potential Today.” Aviva explains in easy to understand language how to develop financial confidence and create a safer, more sustainable path to your future!

Anxiety. It is a seminal part of the human condition. We need it to survive and grow. But for millions of us anxiety takes a heavy toll. What if there was another way to think about anxiety, to actually experience anxiety in a way that can change your life for the better? Our guest is Dr. David H. Rosmarin, author of “Thriving with Anxiety: 9 Tools to Make Your Anxiety Work for You.” Listen to this episode and you just might come away with a whole new perspective on anxiety and a whole lot more!

Today we welcome Dr. Anna Yusim, author of an inspiring and well-researched new book entitled, “Fulfilled: How the Science of Spirituality Can Help You Live a Happier, More Meaningful Life.” Anna integrates the best of Western medicine with universal spiritual principles to help us discover more meaning and joy in life!

She’s an award winning creative force on Madison Avenue. Micki Pagano is also a New Yorker who was deeply affected by the terror attacks on 9-11. Her inspiring book about the afterlife, redemption and hope in the wake of what happened on that fateful day is moving and imaginative. Join us as we introduce you to “The Road to Beyond,” a beautiful parable for our time.

Bar Tips is a wonderful book of life and business lessons by Neil Rogers. Neil currently runs a successful marketing firm. He recalls the skill sets learned when he tended bar in Boston years ago and shares them in this very readable book. There are valuable tips for anyone interested in improving their careers, building sales and understanding and communicating with people!

Meet Diane Pienta, author of a wonderful new book called, “Be the Magic: Bite-Sized Nuggets of Wisdom to Feed your Joy, Nourish you Soul, and Open your Heart.” Diane is a writer, mentor and forest therapy guide who loves to help others see and be their own magic!

We welcome back to the podcast author Landon Beach, a fine friend and a master at penning exciting thrillers. Not only are we thrilled to have him join us to talk about his new book “The Blue Hour Sanction,” but he was kind enough to bring along one of the nation’s top audiobook narrators Suzanne Elise Freeman. She is the reader of this fast-paced novel and you’re about to hear a unique tale of a writer and voice-actor creatively collaborating. It’s a look behind the scenes at how great stories come to life! Here is a link for you Amazon.com: The Blue Hour Sanction (Audible Audio Edition): Landon Beach, Suzanne Elise Freeman, Landon Beach Books: Books

Well, we’ve arrived at a milestone. On Mic Podcast 400! I’ve chosen to feature a lifelong friend as my guest, Mr. Ray Fournier. Ray has been a pioneer in the audio recording industry for well over a half century. Blind since birth, Ray has inspired so many with his dedication to professionalism and artistry. And he’s quite the namedropper and storyteller. Thanks to all of you for coming along for the podcast ride for all 400 episodes. There is so much more to come!

Meet Christy Cashman, a woman who wears many hats! She’s a writer, actress, philanthropist and equestrian who has written her first novel called, “The Truth About Horses.” It’s a wonderful story of a young girl coming to terms with loss and the incredible impact rising horses has on her life.

Meet Janet Seckel-Cerrotti who heads up an outstanding organization that addresses the serious problem of loneliness among older Americans. About to celebrate a special anniversary, FriendshipWorks links volunteers with elder citizens in a variety of programs, all of which lead to happier lives. We are proud to salute FriendshipWorks on today’s episode of On Mic!

Join me as take a tour of jazz in the middle of the last century as award-winning broadcast journalist Carmen Fields shares the story of her Dad Ernie Fields in a well-researched and entertaining book!

Meet a long time friend Lon Davis who has captured the history of old Hollywood in several wonderful books (do check out LON DAVIS on Amazon for the complete list). Today we focus on his special friendship with a comedy legend, Larry Fine of The Three Stooges. The two became pals when Lon was just a teen and the relationship had a lovely and lasting impact on Lon’s life.

Meet Andy Kelley, also known as “The Boston Buddha.” Andy is a husband, father, sports fan and all around regular guy who discovered for himself the benefits of meditation. Now it’s his life mission to share theses benefits with others, people of all ages and backgrounds. Meditation doesn’t have to be a grind, Andy explains why and how it works to make lives better!

JB Harris captures the historical essence and poignancy of the early immigrant experience in her gripping novel “The Immigrant’s Wife.” Prepare for a story of joy in the wake of hardship, love in an era of uncertainty. And much is based on our guest’s own family history.

Barbara Becker has dedicated more than twenty-five years to partnering with human-rights advocates around the world in pursuit of peace and interreligious understanding. She has worked with the United Nations, Human Rights First, the Ms. Foundation for Women, and the Grameen Bank of Bangladesh, and has participated in a delegation of Zen Peacemakers and Lakota elders in the Black Hills of South Dakota. she began a 365-day blog when my earliest childhood friend was diagnosed with breast cancer and was living out the last year of her life. During that time, she was completely absorbed by the question Can we live our lives more fully knowing some day we will die? That resulted in a beautiful book, “Heartwood: The Art of Living with the End in Mind.” Join us in conversation about a key facet of the human experience!

Talk about a “dream job.” Kari McBride, who has worked behind the scenes in show business for such big companies as Disney, was gifted her first ever Lego set during the COVID-19 pandemic. She finished building a 7000 piece model of the Millennium Falcon from Star Wars in just four days. From then on she was obsessed. Now she shares her story about how the obsession led to her ascension as a Lego Master!

In our latest live-audience event held at the beautiful Millennium Tower in downtown Boston, Curator of the New England Sports Museum Richard Johnson regaled us all with tales of local sports legends, their fascinating back stories, and the unique tradition that New England holds when it comes to sports! Learn more about Jordan Rich HERE.

“Mr. Las Vegas” Wayne Newton stops by for a chat about show business, his amazing career and those special entertainers he’s known and loved along the way. A remarkable performer, Wayne has entertained millions and he shows no signs of slowing down!