On Mic Podcast

Meet the extraordinary Allison Blei, co-producer and co-writer of Mr. Swindle’s Traveling Peculiarium arriving in Boston as part of a national tour. This irreverent traveling tented entertainment experience is in partnership with Harpoon Brewery while in our fair city. It’s a mind-bending variety and vaudeville-style show featuring acrobats, jugglers, contortionists and lots of laughs. Allison knows a thing or two about this kind of entertainment with her background in trapeze and circus performance. Lots of thrills and humor and a look behind the curtains as to how a show like hers has become a success.

Meet Michael Dispezio, this generation’s “Mr. Wizard.” Michael is well-respected science educator with writing and editing credits on hundreds of K-12 science texts. He is also a nationally recognized speaker and entertainer, making science understandable and a great deal of fun for audiences of all ages. He’s been featured on national platforms such as National Geographic and Discovery Channel.Michael’s enthusiasm for life and all of its wonders is inspiring!

Legacy is a gift we are all capable of giving. Capturing moments that crystalize one’s legacy is an honor. Especially when it’s someone I love and respect as much as I do. In this case, I get the chance to converse with my 93-year-old father. Marty Rich has led a full and productive life and he’s not done by any means. By launching this special edition of my podcast, I hope to inspire you to capture the thoughts and feelings of your elders, folks who have so much to offer!

Time for some straight talk about finance and investing from a man who has done it successfully for over four decades. Milton Ezrati, author of the book Bite Sized Investing: A Complete (and Jargon-Free) Guide to Your Investing Success, has made it his mission to explain practical economics and investing to all of us who have had it with confusing terminology. Milton has done a masterful job of keeping it simple as you’ll hear as he steps up to join us On Mic!

Meet one of the broadcast industry’s most innovative pioneers. Peter Smyth joins us to talk about his success as head of a major chain of radio stations, the advance of streaming and HD Radio in which he played a major part, and his long standing contributions to making radio better. Peter is the recipient of numerous awards including the “Giant of American Broadcasting” honor from the Library of American Broadcasting and Radio Ink Magazine’s prestigious “America’s Best Broadcaster” Award. A member of the Massachusetts Broadcast Hall of Fame, Peter believes strongly in giving back. We’ll talk specifically about his ongoing help with The Hundred Club of Massachusetts,supporting fallen police officers and other first responders and their families.

Historian, author and playwright David Kruh joins us with his own well-researched spin on a fascinating story steeped in myth and mystery. He’s written Inseparable: An Alcatraz Escape Adventure, a fictional account based on the famous escape by three men from “The Rock,” back in 1962. There is credible evidence that some of the escapees survived, perfect fodder for a thrilling novel you won’t want to put down!

Writer Ken Sheldon presents one of the most fascinating true crime stories you’ll read about, a murder that happened over a hundred years ago in a sleepy northern New England hamlet. You’re sure to be swept away by the gripping story in Deep Water -Murder, Scandal and Intrigue in a New England Town. The author does an incredible job researching the case and surmising a solution to a century old mystery!

Getting back to our roots with one of the nation’s top voice-over artists and mentors Dan Lenard. Dan is known as “The Knowledgeable Voice” and when you hear him speak you’ll understand why. He’s achieved a lot of success, paying it forward by helping others. One of his worthy projects is www.world-voices.org, an organization for and about voice actors of all levels. Dan has much to say and he says it well!

Accomplished novelist Peter Clenott joins us to talk about his latest historically based thriller, The Unwanted. It’s a World War II story about the Nazi eugenics programs and their systematic attempts to euthanize those not achieving “Aryan standards.” The Unwanted features an unlikely friendship between two young girls from opposite sides, an American political power broker, based loosely on patriarch Joseph Kennedy, and a post war murder case that will have you guessing through the last exciting pages!

She will appear magically before your very ears! Thrilled to welcome world-class illusionist Lyn Dillies. Lyn is an award winning stage magician and illusionist who has thrilled thousands with her craft. She also uses her entertaining talents to help others. Meet the lady who has broken through the magical “glass ceiling” and proven she’s got more than a few tricks up her sleeve!

Meet Elle Rueger, the energetic founder of Soledier Socks, a company producing premium American made socks founded on giving back to our troops. Hers is an inspiring story of successful entrepreneurism and generosity. The products are high quality and fun to wear with Elle and her team supporting our armed forces both here and abroad!

So, you start a podcast one day and before you know it you‘ve reached your 300th episode. (Stay tuned, we’re planning a live event to celebrate that milestone soon) But it’s totally apropos to welcome today’s guest and honor him with the coveted 300th spot. Chris Lumry is the author of Creativity Unlocked: An Inside-Out Approach to a Life of Joy and Purpose. Since this podcast is dedicated to the promotion of creative conversation, I thought Chris the perfect choice to share wisdom on the essence and power of creativity in improving one’s life. And when you hear how he redefines creativity, you’ll approach it in your life in an exciting new way!

Another good friend stops by for coffee and conversation. Richard Brody is a radio pro who has worked on and off the air for decades, achieving notoriety as one of the most successful and innovative radio account executives in the business. In his younger days we took his turns as disc jockey on many stations and formats throughout the northeast. He also helped produce and promote hundreds of concerts, working with some of the biggest stars in the music business. Rich is the closest thing to a radio historian you’re going to meet and his stories are always great fun!

Meet my friend “The Statistician!” Professor Donald Rubin is a world-renowned professor and expert in the field of statistics. He explains why stats matter and the important role they play in nearly every facet of life. Don is Professor Emeritus at Harvard University, has received stunning accolades from across the globe, none of which , he admits, holds a candle to the distinct honor of having a dish named for him at a local Chinese restaurant. That’s why he’s a friend and a hero of mine.

James Gavin is a writer and acclaimed music biographer with previous best sellers on the lives of Chet Baker, Peggy Lee and Lena Horne. His latest is an in-depth look at a pop superstar whose fall from the public’s grace was slow and tragic, following a rocketing ascendence to world-wide fame. In George Michael: A Life, Gavin has gone further than any other biographer, exploring all aspects of Michael’s professional career and those which led him along the path of self-destruction. It is a riveting story we invite you to check out!

Meet the founders of Personal Fav, a sexual wellness brand offering safer, plant-based sex products with the cleanest ingredients. Stephanie Elias and Hannah Hutton are looking to flip the male dominated sexual products industry on its head and are making strong inroads as young female entrepreneurs. And they are getting national attention in the process.

Wonderful to welcome back a fine novelist and radio guest of mine Bruce Ferber. Over the years we’ve spoken with Bruce about his days as a comedy writer and producer of such shows as Coach, Bosom Buddies, Sabrina the Teenage Witch and more. For over a decade now Bruce has focused on writing novels, each one a gem and quite funny. His previous two books worth checking out are Elevating Overman and Cascade Falls. On today’s podcast, we chat with him about his latest called I Buried Paul, a character rich take on Beatles cover bands and those musicians who never stop chasing the dream!

OK, it’s your friendly podcast host indulging himself in his passion for Space, the Final Frontier! We welcome sci-fi chronicler, writer, editor and pop-culture whiz Ryan Britt to talk up his fabulous new book, Phasers on Stun: How the Making (and Remaking) of Star Trek Changed the World. Two to beam up and you’re invited to hop aboard as well!

It’s an honor to welcome Brigadier General (Ret) Jack Hammond to the podcast. The General heads up the Home Base Program, dedicated to treating the invisible wounds of war. Thousands of our veterans are in desperate need of help for PTSD, addiction and other mental health issues caused by their wartime experiences. The Home Base Program is taking on this critical mission in bold innovative ways. And they are meeting with success. But more needs to be done. And you can help by clicking here! https://homebase.org

The Godfather is one of America’s most popular and iconic movie masterpieces. Meet Vanity Fair writer Mark Seal who tells the incredible true story of the making of The Godfather in Leave the Gun, Take the Cannoli. Insightful stories and exclusive interviews highlight this terrific book, out during the 50th anniversary of the film’s release. Movie lovers, you are in for a treat!

Meet the multi-faceted funny man Kevin Flynn. Kevin is a successful standup, actor, writer and producer who joins us to chat up his touring performance of Fear of Heights a funny and moving one-man show about an Irish-American kid’s phobias, family life, and the meaning of success. Kevin’s path to success is a neat one and you’ll likely agree that he’s a very funny fellow with a deep sense of heart and soul.

As the face of WCVB TV 5 in Boston, Natalie Jacobson earned the trust and admiration of countless New Englanders. The award-winning news anchor has penned her autobiography entitled, Every Life a Story: Natalie Jacobson Reporting. She relates many adventures during the pioneering days of television news in the 1970’s. Natalie also shares personal stories of her upbringing and family. This broadcast icon’s new book offers readers an intimate look at the behind the scenes world of television news. Learn more about Jordan Rich and the many ways he keeps “conversation alive and well”, here.  

Rick Steves is an internationally renowned travel expert, seen regularly on his popular PBS TV shows. He also has written countless books on travel including his latest, Europe Through the Back Door. We will chat about Europe post pandemic, how travel has evolved, state of affairs at airports, and how to get the most of out your European adventure!

Meet a master of the short story genre. Michael J, Atwood’s latest is called, Delirium Fades. It’s a collection of film noir stories with a hint of the Twilight Zone, stories promising to keep you engaged and reading through the night. A high school English teacher by day, Michael Atwood inspires his students to write and sets a fine example. Listen as we talk about the craft of short story writing and author’s love for tales with a twist.

Peter Altschul is a psychologist and writer with a message worth sharing—people with different points of view CAN learn to get along. His book of essays on the subject features many important touchpoints. We will talk about Riding Elephants: Creating Common Ground Where Contention Rules and what Peter has to say about human nature and how and why it’s critical we develop respect for one another.

Writer Joe O’Donnell, best known for his series of mysteries starring the rugged Boston private investigator Gallagher, returns to the podcast but he’s not alone. Introducing Steve Sachs, the subject of Joe’s new book, Living on the Fringe of the Mob. Through Steve’s eyes and life experiences Joe has compiled a riveting collection of true stories about the New York Mob from the 1960s through the early 2000s. Rather than being a “made man,” Steve is connected to some of the highest ranking and notorious mobsters in New York City by virtue of longstanding childhood friendships and legitimate business relationships. There are many encounters, some humorous, others downright terrifying. Here’s a look at what actual mobsters are like, both “on and off the job.”

She’s written a must-read novel right out of the gate! Meet first-time novelist Karen Winn who goes on-mic to talk about Our Little World, a superbly crafted coming of age story that works on multiple levels, with irresistible characters amidst a tragic mystery. Set in the mid 1980’s, it’s a relatable story of bedroom communities with a lot going on behind closed doors. Your host thinks it the best novel of its type in years. Enjoy!

We welcome the “King of Historical Thrillers,” William Martin back to the podcast. The international best-selling author of such classics as Back Bay, Harvard Yard, The Lincoln Letter, City of Dreams and so many more, brings us his latest, December ’41. It’s a World War II thriller that combines remarkable history with a fictionalized plot that has Nazis in America plotting to kill FDR on Christmas eve of that year. Bill is at the top of his game with this new book. Join us as we talk it up with one of America’s greatest novelists.

Award-winning author and historian Nancy Rubin Stuart joins us to talk about her new book, Poor Richard’s Women: Deborah Read Franklin and he Other Women Behind the Founding Father. Nancy does a terrific job uncovering the story of Ben Franklin’s romantic and flirtatious relationships with women. It’s a beautifully written snapshot of life in colonial times at the birth of a nation. The women of the era finally have their stories told and readers will come away with a new sense of understanding for them and for Dr. Franklin.

We devote today’s episode to the ongoing work of the Professional Center for Child Development locadte just north of Boston. Joining us is the executive director Chris Hunt, family liaison Ellen Waddill and Caroline Pounds, mom to a little boy currently receiving care and education at the Center. The focus is on its mission which is to provide children, of all abilities, with a solid foundation of life-long learning. As they celebrate their 50th anniversary, the PCCD continues to shine as a national model for helping children achieve their full potential.

Tammy Gooler Loeb is a top rated career and executive coach with a new book that many will find helpful as they look to “reinvent themselves.” We explore some of the helpful info and lessons in Work from the Inside Out: Break Through Nine Common Obstacles and Design a Career That Fulfills You.

Today we talk about a taboo subject for many. It’s a conversation about death, transition and how trained, empathetic people like today’s guest Stephanie Garry, Executive VP for Communal Partnership at the Plaza Jewish Community Chapel help people get through difficult life events. We then take a little detour and chat with Stephanie about what she does outside of her “day job.” She is an accomplished actor with many national television spots to her credit!

Meet the author of a different kind of war memoir. Tom Keating has written Yesterday’s Soldier about his experiences about his coming of age in the turbulent 1960’s. On his way to becoming an ordained priest, a series of life altering detours places him in Vietnam. There he is trained as a war-fighter, only to have a greater battle with his conscience. As he aptly says, “ My book is dedicated to all who object to waging war and do the hard work of waging peace.” It’s a tale well worth sharing.

Meet a thought and action leader who is tackling the challenges that women of color face in the corporate world head on. Deepa Purushothaman is co-founder of nFormation, a company for women of color by women of color. Her new book is entitled, The First, The Few, The Only: How Women of Color Can Redefine Power in Corporate America. We talk about how business must evolve and the important role women of color, who have the skills and talent to merit advancement, can and should evolve as key leaders.

Getting a chance to catch up with standup star Steve Sweeney is always fun. We chat about Steve’s work on stage as an impressionist and storyteller, how comedy has come under attack in some circles, what it is that makes Boston just a funny environment and more. Steve is standup royalty and it’s a kick getting a chance to chat with him!

Kim Dower’s poetry is powerful, moving and eminently readable . The Los Angeles Times describes her work as “sensual and evocative…seamlessly combining humor and heartache…” We know you’ll agree her poetry connects with audiences and is something special. We’ll discuss her latest anthology, perfect for Mother’s Day, I Wore This Dress Today for You, Mom.

Meet the man that supervillains with megalomania have been waiting for! He’s the inimitable Ryan North, the creator and author of Dinosaur Comics who has also written for the comic series Adventure Time and Marvel Comics’ The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl. Ryan is a New York Times best-selling author who happens to be a pretty sharp science guy. His “sinister” masterpiece is his latest book, “How to Take Over the World: Practical Schemes and Scientific Solutions for the Aspiring Supervillain,” and it’s laugh out loud funny with the coolest approach to scientific possibilities. Of course, you’re best not to try any of Ryan’s scenarios at home!

The Star of Prairie Home Companion and Lake Wobegon’s most famous son is back to share stories, humor and wisdom. It’s a return appearance for Garrison Keillor, here to talk about two new book projects, “Boom Town: A Lake Wobegon Novel,” and Serenity at 70, Gaiety at 80,” a funny and thoughtful treatise on aging. As always the conversation is lively and fun. Enjoy!

He’s back with another thriller and that’s all we need to know to welcome Brad Meltzer back to On Mic! Brad’s latest is entitled, “The Lightning Rod,” and wait to you read about more of America’s deepest secrets. As always, Brad researches and unveils hidden history in his latest novel. We suggest you hold on tight for an unbelievable ride!  

A creative force on Broadway and beyond, theatre producer Rashad Chambers joins us to talk about his work producing a variety of plays and musicals, including his latest off-Broadway production of “Little Girl Blue,” a musical about the life and times of Nina Simone. Rashad is a rising star in the fascinating behind-the-scenes world of theatre.

Meet one of this era’s finest jazz singers. Not only does Amanda Carr have a talented hold on the Great American Songbook, she is a musician of many talents, composing, play many instruments, recording, teaching and more. Amanda’s music touches the heart and soul of audiences. But she offers so much more as a person. Enjoy a conversation with a creative dynamo who we’re honored to call our friend!

Dr. Barry Taylor, ND is a naturopathic healer of the first order. Over many decades he has helped thousands with his “Love Your Body” program, a well balanced approached to healing and achieving vibrant health. His new book tells the story in depth We will talk with him about “Love Your Body: Your Path to Transformation, Health and Healing.” For those who are tired of merely treating symptoms or putting up with disease, Dr. Taylor offers healthy, science-based alternatives to healing.

A fascinating true crime story comes to life with acclaimed writer Ron Franscell joining us to talk about his new book, “ Shadow Man: An Elusive Psycho Killer and the Birth of FBI Profiling. Ron’s non-fiction reporting in this one will have readers on the edge of their seats as the FBI races to stop a murdered before he kills again!

Carmen Mariano is one of the most amiable chaps you’ll ever meet. Now in his seventies, he has been in school as a student, teacher, coach or administrator since he was 6. In that time, Carmen has earned his Bachelor’s Degree from The Catholic University of America, a Master’s degree from The Harvard Graduate School of Education, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Boston College. He developed long lasting friendships as teacher, mentor and coach. And Carmen is also a nifty collector of stories. Long and short tales that entertain, inspire and make one think. He’s crafted a terrific book on the subject called “The Strength of a Story,” the perfect guest for our podcast that celebrates conversation!

It’s the return of one of our favorites, a thriller writer and story teller of the first order Erica Ferencik. She’s taken us to the raging rivers of the Allagash Wilderness to the mysterious and deadly Amazon jungles and now in her latest book, “Girl in Ice” to the frozen tundra that is Greenland. Her novels are brimming with suspense and gripping characters, with Erica’s tales of researching her locales just as fascinating!    

After receiving a Ph.D. in clinical psychology (2004), Todd Kashdan founded the Well-Being Lab at George Mason University which has produced over 210 peer-reviewed journal articles on well-being and resilience, psychological flexibility, meaning and purpose in life, curiosity, and managing social anxiety. Todd has authored several books and today we talk about his latest entitled “The Art of Insubordination.” He offers practical ways to speak up for yourself and for what’s right, all of it based on hard science and humanity, not to mention a great sense of humor!

Meet retired Watertown, Massachusetts police officer Jeff Pugliese who served his community proudly for decades. Jeff went beyond the call of duty when he faced down one of the Boston Marathon terrorist bombers, likely saving many innocent lives. Jeff shares personal details about the night he engaged in the gun battle heard around the world.

We are thrilled to welcome back broadcast newsman and interviewer extraordinaire Bill Diehl, longtime ABC Radio Network star who has a terrific new book called “50 Years of Celebrity Chatter: (Or the Time I Interviewed a Porn Star Naked)” Intrigued by the title? Of course you are. So many celebrity stories coming your way as we chat with Bill!

A pleasure to welcome back movie maven John DiLeo, author of several wonderful books about film. His latest is called “There Are No Small Parts: 100 Outstanding Film Performances with Screen Time of 10 Minutes or Less.“ For anyone who loves movies, particularly those standout characters, grab some popcorn and enjoy the conversation!

Long-time broadcaster, writer and documentarian Bill Lichtenstein joins us to talk about the film and his accompanying book on the history of the groundbreaking radio station WBCN. The book is entitled, “WBCN and the American Revolution: How a Radio Station Defined Politics, Counterculture, and Rock and Roll.” For lovers of radio, music and history, settle in for a fascinating conversation! Learn more about this podcast and Jordan Rich here.