Stories from Real Life

Attorney Ken Kunken shares his inspiring journey from a tragic accident that left him quadriplegic to becoming a successful lawyer and author. Ken discusses the writing process of his memoir, his family life, the challenges he faced in college, and his career in the district attorney's office. Ken's story is a powerful reminder of resilience and the impact of role models for individuals with disabilities.https://kenkunken.com/Promoting memoir: “I Dream of Things That Never Were: The Ken Kunken Story,” published in 2023. If anyone wants to purchase the book from outside the US or Canada, the Kindle version is available through Amazon.com (the US version, not the regional like Amazon.eu or .pl). Here is the link: https://a.co/d/1t1UWINKeywordsmemoir, disability, law, inspiration, overcoming challenges, family, quadriplegic, Ken Kunken, personal story, advocacy, ADA Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Hollywood writer and producer Alan Katz joins the show today to discuss his journey in the entertainment industry, including his experiences with HBO's groundbreaking series 'Tales from the Crypt,' the cultural adjustments he faced moving from Baltimore to New York, and ultimately finding his place in Los Angeles. Katz shares insights into the creative freedom he experienced at HBO, the evolution of the Cryptkeeper character, and the challenges faced while making films based on the series. In this conversation, Alan Katz shares the personal trauma that led to a two-decade struggle with depression and writer's block, and his eventual healing through storytelling. https://thedonorpodcast.comWant to be a guest on Stories from Real Life? Send Melvin Edwards a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/storiesfromreallife. KeywordsAlan Katz, A.L. Katz, Tales from the Crypt, HBO, Hollywood, screenwriting, cultural adjustment, Los Angeles, filmmaking, television history, storytelling, Bordello of Blood, trauma, healing, storytelling, podcasting, creativity, mental health, personal journey, filmmaking, empowerment Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Host Melvin E. Edwards celebrates his 100th episode with guest Alex Sanfilippo, founder of PodMatch. They discuss the significance of storytelling in podcasting and the importance of a mission-driven approach. In this conversation, Alex shares the journey of creating PodMatch, a platform designed to connect podcast hosts and guests. He also discusses the impact of podcasting on individuals and society.Podmatch.com/freePodcasting Made Simple Keywordspodcasting, PodMatch, storytelling, entrepreneurship,personal growth, faith, identity, business, success, community, podcasting, PodMatch, podcast guests, podcast production, podcasting industry, starting a podcast, podcast impact, AI in podcasting, podcast growth, podcast community Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Dr. Jack Stoltzfus discusses the evolving dynamics between parents and their adult children, particularly focusing on the increasing trend of young adults living at home. He explores the reasons behind this phenomenon, including economic factors and changing parental attitudes. Dr. Stoltzfus emphasizes the importance of fostering independence while maintaining a supportive relationship, offering strategies for parents to help their children successfully launch into adulthood. Keywordsparenting, young adults, independence, family relationships, launch strategies, parental guilt, estrangement, support, self-sufficiency, generational differencesClick on this link to visit the website and sign up to receive future blogs and updates on the publication of The Launch Code. https://parentslettinggo.com/contact/Want to be a guest on Stories from Real Life? Send Melvin Edwards a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/storiesfromreallife. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

If you're of a certain age, you will certainly remember Matthew Lesko, the 'question mark guy ' on those famous infomercials. Lesko discusses his journey from a naval officer to a prominent figure in the world of government grants and financial aid. He shares insights on the importance of failure, finding one's passion, and the misconceptions surrounding government assistance. The conversation concludes with Lesko's advice on trusting one's heart and the importance of seeking help from others. A few of the site that offer financial assistance:https://singlemotherguide.com/https://www.needymeds.org/https://findhelp.org/https://www.free.lesko.com/membership-access-top5022750066?page_id=22750068&page_key=yd4cffvtucwyitdv&login_redirect=1KeywordsMatthew Lesko, government grants, financial aid, entrepreneurship, personal development, community support, overcoming failure, information access, pandemic impact, misconceptions Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Estate planner Oscar Vasquez emphasizes the critical importance of estate planning, particularly through living trusts. Oscar shares insights on the rising costs of traditional estate planning, the risks of probate, and the necessity of guardianship for children. He discusses how estate planning can be seen as a final act of love for families, providing clarity and preventing disputes. The conversation also covers the differences between wills and living trusts, the process of funding a living trust, and the human element involved in estate planning. In this conversation, Oscar Vasquez discusses the importance of estate planning, particularly focusing on living trusts. He explains how his software simplifies the process of creating and modifying living trusts, emphasizing the need for regular updates and communication with family members.Oscar shares personal anecdotes to illustrate the consequences of inadequate estate planning and highlights the alarming statistic that 68% of Americans lack an estate plan. He provides actionable steps for homeowners to protect their assets and compares the costs of setting up a living trust versus going through probate. The discussion concludes with offers for discounts and free resources to encourage listeners to take action on their estate planning needs.Website: https://estatedocprep.com/ 24/7 Client Assistant AI phone number for Audience Question 805-909-4689Download Free comprehensive Estate Guide https://estatedocprep.com/guide For the First 10 members of the audience to get a living trust get a $1000 discount code for a Comprehensive Living Trust, use Discount Code: REALLIFEKeywordsestate planning, living trust, guardianship, probate, estate plan, final act of love, wills, legal provisions, asset management, family planning, estate planning, living trusts, asset protection, probate, financial planning, estate management, family legacy, estate attorney, estate documents, financial burdenChapters00:00 Introduction to Estate Planning Awareness03:10 The Importance of Living Trusts05:49 Understanding Guardianship and Its Importance09:10 The Final Act of Love: Estate Planning as a Gift12:07 Probate vs. Living Trusts: What You Need to Know14:51 The Risks of Not Having an Estate Plan18:03 Wills vs. Living Trusts: Key Differences21:11 The Process of Funding a Living Trust26:57 Understanding Living Trusts and Their Modifications32:09 The Importance of Estate Planning Awareness36:28 Steps to Protect Your Assets41:36 Cost Comparison: Living Trusts vs. Probate46:47 Incentives for Taking Action on Estate Planning50:07 Personal Stories and Their Impact on Estate Planning Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Author Lizbeth Meredith shares her journey of resilience and healing after experiencing childhood abduction and navigating complex family dynamics. Lizbeth discusses the challenges of writing her memoir, the impact of her story being adapted into a movie, and the lessons learned from her experiences. Lizbeth also highlights her podcast, Persistence U, which focuses on trauma, resilience, and the power of persistence.Keywordsmemoir, trauma, resilience, family dynamics, writing, child abduction, healing, relationships, storytelling, personal growthPersistence U with Lizbeth Podcast - Apple PodcastsChapters00:00 Introduction and Background02:13 The Impact of Family Dynamics05:02 The Journey of Writing a Memoir08:34 Personal Abduction Stories11:35 The Experience of Seeing Your Story on Screen13:35 Life After the Movie Adaptation17:34 Lessons from Trauma and Resilience19:41 Recognizing Red Flags in Relationships22:42 Leveraging Difficult Lessons26:31 Understanding Trauma-Informed Care29:54 The Process of Turning a Book into a Movie35:29 Promoting Your Story37:37 The Reality of Healing from Trauma39:33 PersistenceU Podcast and Its Mission Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Former U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales discusses his journey from humble beginnings to high-ranking government positions, his experiences working with George W. Bush, and his reflections on significant legal and ethical issues he faced. Gonzales shares insights on diversity in leadership, the challenges of public service, and the importance of leaving a legacy. Keywords Alberto Gonzales, American Dream, Birthright Citizenship, Clemency, Diversity, Attorney General, Public Service, Legacy, Media Scrutiny, Future Aspirations Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

My guest today is Heath Mayo, founder of Principles First. He discusses personal updates, including his role as a new father, educational background, and political future. The conversation shifts to the current political landscape, including concerns about public safety and protests, the evolution of Principles First, and the potential for new political alliances and third-party movements. Despite the audio difficulties, this is a can't-miss conversation. https://www.principlesfirst.us/Also, listen to Heath on John Daly's podcast, The Daly Express. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-daly-express/id1756231585Want to be a guest on Stories from Real Life? Send Melvin Edwards a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/storiesfromreallife. www.podcastreallife.comPrinciples First, Heath Mayo, political aspirations, public safety, third party, political alliances, Republican Party, evolution, summit, personal updates, grassroots movements, political change, political parties, Trump presidency, global responsibility, domestic challenges, AI impact, optimism Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

In this conversation, Owen Ó Súilleabháin discusses the rich tapestry of Irish and Celtic culture, exploring themes such as the influence of family and cultural heritage, the significance of names and identity, the challenges of language preservation, and the evolving diversity within modern Irish society. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling, traditional music, and poetry, particularly the unique tradition of limericks while reflecting on the historical context and contemporary relevance of these cultural elements. In this conversation, Owen Ó Súilleabháin discusses the profound role of poets in society, particularly focusing on Seamus Heaney and William Butler Yeats. He explores the cultural landscape of Northern Ireland, the significance of poetry and folklore, and the impact of geography and climate on Irish identity. The dialogue also delves into Celtic traditions and the importance of community engagement in preserving cultural heritage.https://www.turasdanam.com/membershipKeywordsIrish culture, Celtic heritage, language preservation, identity, poetry, family influence, cultural genius, diversity, traditional music, storytelling, Seamus Heaney, Northern Ireland, Irish culture, folklore, Celtic traditions, community, geography, climate, storytelling Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Stories from Real Life, host Melvin E. Edwards speaks with Cathy Nesbitt, a worm wrangler and laughter yoga leader from Ontario, Canada. They discuss the current political climate in Canada, Cathy's journey into worm composting, and the surprising connection between worms and laughter yoga. Cathy shares her insights on the benefits of laughter for health and creativity, the importance of laughter clubs, and how laughter can help combat mental health issues. The conversation highlights the significance of community, personal growth, and the joy of laughter in everyday life.Cathys Laughter ClubChapters00:00 Introduction to Cathy Nesbitt and Canadian Politics03:04 The Journey into Worm Composting06:01 The Connection Between Worms and Laughter Yoga12:04 Understanding Laughter Yoga18:05 The Benefits of Laughter in Health and Business24:00 The Importance of Laughter Clubs30:08 Final Thoughts on Life, Worms, and LaughterKeywordsCathy Nesbitt, worm composting, laughter yoga, health benefits, Canadian politics, environmental sustainability, mental health, laughter clubs, personal growth, community building Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Stories from Real Life, host Melvin E. Edwards engages in a thought-provoking conversation with David Beckemeyer, the host of the Outrage Overload podcast. They explore the origins of outrage culture, political polarization's impact, and trust challenges in the age of misinformation. Beckemeyer shares insights on skepticism versus contrarianism, the role of fact-checking, and the connection between political polarization and violence. They discuss strategies for reducing polarization, fostering community, and coping with outrage culture while highlighting hopeful signs for the future.www.outrageoverload.netwww.crossingpartylines.com Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of 'Stories from Real Life', host Melvin E. Edwards speaks with Dr. Deborah Heiser, an applied developmental psychologist, about the importance of storytelling and mentorship in our lives. They discuss how storytelling has been vital to human connection and how it can be revitalized in the modern age. Dr. Heiser shares her journey to becoming a psychologist, her insights on aging and happiness, and the impact of her Mentor Project, which connects experts with students worldwide. The conversation emphasizes the significance of generativity, the difference between mentorship and coaching, and the value of building connections across generations.https://mentorproject.org/Want to be a guest on Stories from Real Life? Send Melvin Edwards a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/storiesfromreallifeKeywordsstorytelling, mentorship, aging, happiness, generativity, personal development, coaching, community, connections, legacy Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

In this enlightening episode, Melvin E. Edwards engages with Amita Sharma, a Women's Holistic Wellness Advocate, to explore the often-overlooked topic of perimenopause and menopause. They discuss the journey of women through these life stages, the cultural myths that surround them, and the hormonal changes that occur. Amita shares insights on how these changes can affect relationships, the importance of community and humor in redefining aging, and practical lifestyle changes that can alleviate symptoms. The conversation also highlights the differences in menopause experiences across ethnic groups and introduces NourishDoc, a holistic wellness platform designed to support women during this transition.Want to be a guest on Stories from Real Life? Send Melvin Edwards a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/storiesfromreallifeNourishDoc.comKeywordsmenopause, perimenopause, holistic wellness, women's health, hormonal changes, cultural myths, aging, lifestyle changes, anxiety, support Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Stories from Real Life, host Melvin E. Edwards engages with former Baltimore social worker Jack Kammer to discuss critical male issues, gender dynamics, and the societal expectations placed on men. The conversation explores Kammer's anecdotes and his work on the "wimp" bill with the late Congressman Elijah Cummings. They delve into the importance of recognizing male struggles, the impact of fatherhood, and the evolution of the women's movement, emphasizing the need for a balanced dialogue about gender equality. Jack Kammer discusses the critical role of fatherhood in society in this conversation, stressing the need for men to be recognized as nurturing and caring parents. He addresses the concept of toxic masculinity, advocating for self-examination among men while critiquing the way the term is often misused. The discussion also explores the challenges boys face in transitioning to manhood, highlighting societal disincentives and the emotional struggles men endure. Finally, Kammer sheds light on the double burden faced by black men, navigating both racism and sexism, and calls for a broader understanding of gender issues that affect all men.https://www.malefriendlymedia.com/Want to be a guest on Stories from Real Life? Send Melvin Edwards a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/storiesfromreallifeKeywordsmale issues, gender dynamics, fatherhood, 'wimp' bill, Elijah Cummings, men's rights, social expectations, divorce, gender equality, fatherhood, toxic masculinity, gender issues, parenting, men's rights, emotional expression, societal expectations, race, masculinity, self-examination Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Stories from Real Life, host Melvin E. Edwards speaks with former federal judge Mary Beth O'Connor about her remarkable journey from addiction to sobriety and her career in law. Mary Beth shares her early life experiences, the challenges she faced with substance use, and how her past has shaped her empathetic approach to judging. She discusses her memoir, "From Junkie to Judge", and the importance of addressing both substance use and mental health in recovery. Mary Beth also highlights the need for individualized treatment options and the stigma surrounding addiction. Through her story, she aims to inspire others and provide valuable insights into the recovery process.https://junkietojudge.com/Want to be a guest on Stories from Real Life? Send Melvin Edwards a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/storiesfromreallifeMary Beth O'Connor, addiction recovery, substance use disorder, mental health, trauma, federal judge, memoir, empathy, legal education, sobrietyChapters00:00 Introduction to Mary Beth O'Connor's Journey02:32 From Troubled Beginnings to Triumph05:26 The Role of Empathy in Judging07:29 Writing 'From Junkie to Judge'08:22 Challenges in Recovery During Law School10:22 Impact of Addiction on Career Progression13:09 Navigating Disclosure of Sobriety15:11 Training Legal Professionals on Substance Use17:07 Inspiration for Others Facing Addiction18:23 Challenges of Public Disclosure22:37 Imposter Syndrome in the Legal Field24:45 Confidence in Long-Term Sobriety26:04 Impediments to Sustaining Sobriety29:23 Interplay of Substance Use and Mental Health32:12 The Role of Biochemistry in Addiction34:43 Media Interest in Mary Beth's Story36:31 Connecting with Mary Beth O'Connor Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Stories from Real Life, host Melvin E. Edwards interviews algorithmist Noah Healy, who shares his journey from studying nuclear engineering to developing algorithms with a focus on ethics and market design. Healy discusses the complexities of algorithm development, the patent process, and the ethical implications of technology in society. He also explores the concept of natural monopolies in marketplaces and the potential impact of his work on financial systems and everyday consumers.KeywordsNoah Healy, algorithms, patent process, ethics, market design, game theory, financial markets, technology, innovation, economicsWant to be a guest on Stories from Real Life? Send Melvin Edwards a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/storiesfromreallife Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Stories from Real Life, host Melvin E. Edwards engages with Jim Marshall, the author of 'Septemics', a revolutionary work that combines social science and psychological philosophy. Marshall explains the concept of Septemics, which is based on the idea that human phenomena can be analyzed through a series of 35 scales, each representing a hierarchy of seven levels. The conversation delves into the practical applications of Septemics in understanding human behavior, improving personal development, and navigating relationships. Marshall shares insights from his journey as a human development engineer and emphasizes the accessibility of his work to a broad audience. The discussion also touches on the compatibility of Septemics with various religious beliefs and concludes with information on how to access the book and learn more about the subject.www.Septemics.comKeywordsSeptemics, human potential, psychology, philosophy, self-improvement, human behavior, personal development, Jim Marshall, social science, transformative workWant to be a guest on Stories from Real Life? Send Melvin Edwards a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/storiesfromreallife Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

In this Stories from Real Life episode, host Melvin E. Edwards speaks with sports agent Adam Spencer about his journey from military service to sports management. They discuss the evolving landscape of college sports in the NIL era, the future of the NCAA, and the importance of mental health for athletes. Spencer shares insights on client acquisition, the role of HBCUs in sports, and the impact of media on women's basketball. The conversation highlights the need for athlete rights and the potential for unionization in the sports industry.Adam Spencer's website: https://spencergroup.info/homeWant to be a guest on Stories from Real Life? Send Melvin Edwards a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/storiesfromreallife. Keywordssports management, NIL, NCAA, athlete rights, women's basketball, HBCUs, revenue sharing, client acquisition, mental health, sports trends Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

SummaryIn this conversation, Japanese resident Tom Logan presents a fictional letter from Kim Jong-un to Donald Trump, celebrating Trump's return to the presidency and proposing a new era of cooperation between the United States and North Korea. The letter emphasizes the importance of diplomacy, the potential for peace, and the invitation for Trump to visit Pyongyang to discuss ending the conflict. Logan highlights the historical significance of their previous summit and expresses hope for a future of collaboration and reduced military commitments.Want to be a guest on Stories from Real Life? Send Melvin Edwards a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/storiesfromreallifeRemember, no matter how accurate, this is intended to be fake news, though just barely. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

SummaryIn this episode of Stories from Real Life, host Melvin E. Edwards engages in a deep and insightful conversation with Dr. Shehzad Batliwala, an eye surgeon, comedian, and advocate for self-awareness. They explore Dr. Batliwala's immigrant journey from India to the United States, the challenges he faced as an undocumented immigrant, and the impact of political policies on his family. The discussion also delves into the importance of humor in life, the cosmic perspective, and the lessons learned from accomplishments and failures. Dr. Batliwala shares his experiences with public speaking, including a TED talk, and emphasizes the significance of being present and self-aware in navigating life's challenges. The episode concludes with a powerful message about the importance of remembering one's core identity and the value of laughter in connecting with others.Want to be a guest on Stories from Real Life? Send Melvin Edwards a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/storiesfromreallifeKeywordsDr. Shehzad Batliwala, immigrant experience, comedy, NASA, self-awareness, public speaking, life lessons, cultural pride, diversity, personal growth Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

SummaryIn this episode of Stories from Real Life, host Melvin E. Edwards speaks with Dianne Ennis Stewart, a South African immigrant and expert on U.S. immigration policy. Dianne shares her personal journey of immigration, her interactions with Nelson Mandela, and the challenges she faced navigating the complex U.S. immigration system. The conversation explores cultural reflections between South Africa and the American South, the allure of the American Dream, and the myths surrounding legal immigration. Dianne also discusses the significance of DACA and DALCA, the future of U.S. immigration policy under the current administration, and the support she offers to immigrants through her business.Website: https://www.pathwayusa.us/Book: Scars and Stripes – A Journey through the US Immigration System https://www.amazon.com/Scars-Stripes-Journey-through-Immigration/dp/1737785404Want to be a guest on Stories from Real Life? Send Melvin Edwards a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/storiesfromreallifeKeywordsImmigration, DACA, South Africa, American Dream, Nelson Mandela, U.S. immigration policy, cultural reflections, legal immigration, personal journey, immigrant supportChapters00:00 Introduction to Dianne's Journey03:55 Leaving South Africa: A Personal Story08:06 Interactions with Nelson Mandela09:48 Navigating Immigration Challenges13:18 The American Dream: Why the U.S.?16:16 Comparing Segregation: South Africa vs. American South21:25 The Allure of Immigration to the U.S.23:35 Myths of U.S. Immigration System26:51 Navigating the Immigration Process33:43 Understanding Immigration Myths38:23 DACA and DALCA Explained43:01 The Future of Immigration Under Trump47:48 Supporting Immigrants: Pathway USA50:20 A Message of Hope for Immigrants Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Stories from Real Life, host Melvin E. Edwards speaks with Tom Logan, an American living in Japan, about his experiences and insights on international relations, trade dynamics, and cultural differences. They discuss the challenges American firms face in penetrating the Japanese market, the impact of US elections on Asia, and the enigmatic nature of North Korea. Tom shares his reflections on living in Japan, the importance of community and empathy, and offers advice for Americans to broaden their perspectives.Fictional letter to Kim Jung-Un https://www.nationalcompass.net/2024/12/05/kim-jong-un-congratulates-president-elect-donald-j-trump-with-a-post-election-love-letter/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2KsBX0GlNfmvl2iJYw5Ify2K7vdK7dBZ9GfntMdM0m68UzwnqJOgd-ZjE_aem_8BaldJcysJOpOdk79-TLjwTakeaways- Tom Logan has over 31 years of experience in Japan.- Japan presents unique challenges for American businesses.- Trade wars can have negative repercussions for all parties involved.- Public opinion in Japan is largely against Donald Trump.- North Korea's nuclear ambitions remain a significant concern.- Cultural differences shape perceptions of safety and community.- The U.S. political landscape is increasingly polarized.- Empathy and understanding are crucial for national unity.- Travel and learning foreign languages can broaden perspectives.- Personal connections can help bridge cultural divides. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

In this clip from the December 10, 2024, episode of Stories from Real Life, former U.S. diplomat Tom Logan shares his grave concerns about Tulsi Gabbard and Trump's other nominees from the perspective of a consultant in Asia. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

This week, Leigh-Anne (Edwards) Clabby takes the helm as our guest host, diving deep with none other than her dad, Melvin E. Edwards, host of "Stories from Real Life!" She’s on a mission to uncover juicy tales from his childhood, his superhero inspirations, and what legacy he thinks he’s leaving behind. Tune in for this heartwarming family chat and spill the beans on what else you’re dying to ask Melvin! Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Tune into Stories from Real Life every Tuesday morning. It'll be here whatever time you wake up! Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Houston attorney and former TV sportscaster Drew Shirley admits he voted for Donald Trump in this year's election, despite feeling embarrassed by his belief that Trump is a "clown." He's ready to share why he chose the eventual 2024 winner, having not supported Trump in 2016 or 2020, and he requests an open mind before passing judgment. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Kristen Adele Calhoun is a writer, actress, and college professor, who also happens to be a cousin of this podcast's host. They are here to discuss the daunting challenge of uncovering their family's history as the descendants of enslaved Americans, and the enduring legacy of Isaac and Elvira Bladen - enslaved residents of the Republic of Texas.http://www.kristenadelecalhoun.com/https://www.amazon.com/Eyes-Texans-Slavery-Personal-Generations/dp/B08NS65Q2N#customerReviews Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Exit polls show that 81% of White Evangelicals voted for Donald Trump in this year, compared to 14% of Black Evangelicals. Guest “Bonhoeffer’s Child” tries to make sense of this moment in American and church history in this week's extended episode that will leave you speechless. @bonhoefferchild Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Casey Jakubowski Ph.D. founded DragonTamer.us to help people and teams move from okay to outstanding! After 20 years in education, team building, and improvement processes, Casey is an advocate for the underdog, the bullied, and the discouraged. He has written six books on citizen engagement, overcoming bullying, and improving American schools.https://www.linkedin.com/in/ctjakubowski/https://www.dragontamer.us/https://ctjakubowski.weebly.com/ Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Nate Belcik, a Texas high school history teacher, embodies a calm demeanor during the weekdays and transforms into a U2 superfan on weekends. Despite being in his 20s, Nate has attended their concerts 18 times, which includes witnessing six performances during U2's recent Las Vegas residency. What is it like camping in line for 2-3 days before each show or driving from Phoenix to San Diego for shows on back-to-back nights? Nate knows! Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Michael Alcazar's journey to becoming a New York City detective is a testament to the unexpected paths life can take. Despite never intending to join the police force, he dedicated 30 years of his life to the NYPD, where he encountered moments of profound courage and resilience. One such moment was on September 11, 2001, a day that forever changed the world. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Our guest this week is Trevor P. Wardlaw, a descendant of Elder John Parker, a victim of the 1836 Fort Parker massacre in Limestone County, Texas, and a cousin to Quanah Parker, the "Last Comanche Chief." Born in Waco, Texas, Wardlaw spent much of his childhood in South Bend, Indiana, and New York City.He is an 8th generation Texan and a lifetime member of the Sons of the Republic of Texas. Let's find out about Trevor's historic roots and other things that make up the Parker and Wardlaw story. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Boston-area bartender-turned-salesman Neil Rogers has been owner and Vice President of Marketing & Sales at Rogers Marketing for nearly 26 years. He built his career and business leveraging both old-school and new-school marketing & sales techniques.In his book, "Bar Tips: Everything I Needed to Know in Sales I Learned Behind the Bar," Neil shares the skills and tools learned during his early working years as a bartender that led to his success as an entrepreneur and industry leader.https://www.amazon.com/Bar-Tips-Everything-Needed-Learned/dp/B0BZ1V85T1 Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, I asked several people from all over the country to pronounce the following words. Their results are captured here in this fun and brief experiment.1. Oil 2. Iron 3. Naked 4. Vehicle 5. Wash 6. Dawn 7. Right 8. Water 9. Pecan 10. Buggy 11. Cement 12. Can’t 13. Light 14. Night 15. On 16. Fixing 17. Aunt 18. Hair www.podcastreallife.com Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Ben Marsh is a pastor at First Alliance Church in Winston-Salem, NC. He lives there with his wife and two teenaged daughters. He has a dog, Hank, and a cat, who apparently changed its identity. The story of how that happened is almost unbelievable. Ben has a heart for immigrants and is disturbed by what he is witnessing in today's political discourse.Before you listen, you should know that he puts olives in chili. Find out why. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Nate Bell is an outspoken Never Trump conservative and has been politically homeless since 2016. A lifelong Republican until 2015, Nate served in the Arkansas State House of Representatives from 2011 to 2017 where he chaired the State Agencies and Government Affairs Committee, served as House Chair of the Legislative Audit Subcommittee on State Agencies, and as House co-chair of the Joint Committee on Constitutional Amendments.After 3 terms in office, Nate chose not to seek re-election, but he remains politically active and stirs up “good trouble.” He and his wife of 34 years live sustainably and off-grid on 225 wilderness acres in a unique home they built themselves. They have 2 grown daughters and one grandson. Tune in for a conversation with Nate Bell that will nudge you to think deeper about your political choices. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

In today's episode of "Stories from Real Life," hosted by Melvin E. Edwards, we feature Dr. Karen Swallow Prior. She is a renowned international speaker, professor, and author with a diverse portfolio of books on topics from theology to literature, with a particular focus on 18th-century British Literature.Despite recent notable disagreements with the Southern Baptist Convention, her faith remains unwavering. Her passion for words and profound reverence for The Word are central to her life.During the discussion, she explores the impact of Christian worldviews on historical events, including the abolition movement and the cause of animal safety.Tune in for a conversation with Dr. Karen Swallow Prior that promises to enlighten and inspire. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Our guest, Dr. Daniel Silliman, is the news editor for Christianity Today magazine. Three weeks ago, he released his newest book "One Lost Soul - Richard Nixon's Search for Salvation" to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Nixon's resignation from the presidency. Nixon is a complicated historical figure who wrestled with God for most of his life. Today's episode will help us discover if he was eventually able to find what he was looking for. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Meredith Wills has a Ph.D. in solar astrophysics and is a sports data scientist. She's a physicist and a baseball analyst, who happens to also be a world-class knitter. Rumor has it, Lynda Carter wears a Meredith Wills costume for Halloween.Wills' grandfather may or may not have worked at Area 51.Let's see how she weaves these interests into another fascinating episode of "Stories from Real Life." Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Eriksen Dickens is a storytelling wizard, crafting "legacy documentaries" that spotlight businesses, foundations, or individuals with fascinating tales to tell. These cinematic gems capture life through a lens of positivity, preserving legacies for generational to enjoy.https://platinumpeek.com/ Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Garret Williams is known on Twitter as @TexansCommenter and runs a page called Houston Stressans. He is a contributing writer for the Sporting News and covers the Houston Texans for that publication and his page. How many wins does he project for Houston this year? You might be surprised! Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Minnesota's very own Pat Kahnke is the Joey Chestnut of muskrat skinners, once taking the hides off hundreds of rodents in a single day. Though his sobering takes on Christianity and politics are serious, wondering if he once met Ted Cruz at a high school science conference is not.After Prince, Bob Dylan, and Mike Lindell, Kahnke is probably Minnesota's most famous resident. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Rodney Smith Jr.’s simple act of assisting a neighbor with lawn care has blossomed into a nationwide movement centered on compassion and kindness. Born in Bermuda on the Fourth of July, Rodney Smith Jr. is the hero Americans didn’t know we needed.https://weareraisingmen.com/https://weareraisingmen.com/donate/https://rodneysmithjr.com/products/one-lawn-at-a-time Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Find out what would happen if our guests Michael Freeman and Doc Hubbard took the wheel as President of the U.S. or Commissioner of Baseball for a day. Spoiler alert: courtesy runners might be running for cover! Tune in to uncover the whys.It has been one year since we launched the first episode of this podcast and we are celebrating by bringing back the first two guests. Last year, they were on Episodes 1 & 2. This time, they're together for Episode Number 60! Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

It’s time to change the conversation about divorce. And that’s exactly what our guest today is trying to do. Sarah Armstrong is a Vice President of Global Marketing Operations at Google, and she never expected to be in this situation. However, based on her personal experiences, she decided to write 'The Mom’s Guide to a Good Divorce: What to Think Through When Children are Involved'. She defines a good divorce as one that puts the children first. For anyone wondering how they will ever come out the other side of a divorce and keep their family whole, Sarah is an inspiration. She offers practical tips and advice for moms (and dads) by sharing her inspiring personal stories and provides sage advice for taking practical steps to work toward the best outcome in the midst of the worst of circumstances. https://www.momsguidetogooddivorce.com/ Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Today's guest, Heather Renee May, has a diverse background that gives her a unique perspective on life. Ballet was her first love, and she danced professionally until retirement. She's now an author, podcast host, musician, dog-lover, and wine-enthusiast, who tours wineries in her RV with her dog. Dotty.Music has always had an important place in her life. A singer-songwriter under the stage name “Heather Ré”, she has released two albums, and performs on guitar and fiddle throughout the US, mainly at wineries and intimate venues.https://www.heatherreneemay.com/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100034211354453Instagram: _everydayismay Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Our guest today is a best-selling author of more than a dozen novels and essay collections. Acclaimed writer Sarah Bird is an NPR Moth storyteller, a winner of the Meryl Streep screenwriting competition, a member of the Texas Literary Hall of Fame, a finalist for the Dublin International Literary Award, and the hologram greeter for the Austin Central Library near the University of Texas campus.Her latest book, Juneteenth Rodeo, is a homage to the Black cowboy because 1/4 of all early Texas ranch hands and bronco busters were enslaved or direct descendants of enslaved Americans. Host Melvin E. Edwards is, himself, a direct descendant of several of those cowboys, and because of that, he is one of the rare Black members of the Sons of the Republic of Texas.Today's episode is part literacy and part acknowledgment of a forgotten past.Saddle up and join Melvin E. Edwards and his fascinating conversation with award-winning author Sarah Bird. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Jonathan Janz is the pen name of Craig Shaeffer, an American horror author of 16 novels and one collection of short fiction.In 2011, Janz published his debut novel, The Sorrows. The book received praise from author Brian Keene, who called it "the best horror novel of 2012." Keene would also describe Janz as "One of the best writers in modern horror to come along in the last decade."In March of 2023, Janz won the Wilburn-Thomas Award at the Scares That Care event in Williamsburg, VA. This is a charity event organized by author Brian Keene and the award is given to authors who have helped other writers and their community.When he's not Jonthan Janz: Horror Author, he's Mr. Shaeffer, a high school English, film literature, and creative writing teacher in Indiana. He currently resides in Indiana with his wife and three children.You won't want to miss how his students finally learned that mild-mannered Mr. Shaeffer was also famous writer Jonthan Janz. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

Lori Adams-Brown is an international speaker, business executive, and podcast host. She has lived all over the world and has a unique perspective when dealing with people from varying cultures and nationalities. It also helps that she speaks six languages.Lori is a connector who puts people first and values the lasting partnerships she builds. She is an active listener who cares about the stories people share and is energized by communication and teamwork. She is also a lifelong learner and known for bringing innovative perspectives and questions to the decision-making table.Join today's conversation with impressive leader Lori Adams-Brown and learn how becoming a better listener can improve your family and your work culture. For more information about today's guest, go to her website at Lori Adams-Brown (loriadamsbrown.com) Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe