On Mic Podcast

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.

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!