Dear Discreet Guide

Welcome Flora Qian with her first novel "South of the Yangtze," a coming-of-age story of a thoughtful and curious Chinese girl, born and raised in Shanghai during the one-child years.* Flora discusses the origins of the novel which maps some of her own experiences as a young woman educated in China who then moved to Hong Kong. The intriguing novel, written in English, explores the themes of language, relationships, loneliness, and community, against a backdrop of post-Cultural Revolution China. Flora discusses her interest in Chinese characters, how Mandarin and English entered her life, how Chinese sayings and folk tales influence our thinking, the risks of original thought, and how circumstances often hinder our ability to reach greater intimacy with others. A thought-provoking episode with something for everyone. *And could make a great holiday present!Flora's website:https://floraqian.com/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/Support us!https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/support/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Social Media:YouTube: @MadActsXTwitter: @Mad_ActsBlueSky: @mad-acts.bsky.socialFB: @BooksShowsTunesIG: @Mad_ActsLI: Jennifer K. Crittenden

Relationship expert Melinda Blau is back with her new book, "The Wisdom Whisperers: Golden Guides to a Long Life of Grit, Grace, and Laughter." Melinda began collecting her "old ladies," as she calls them, in mid-life and shares here the tremendous wisdom and benefit she has received over the past twenty years or so from these relationships with women much older than she is. Not so much a book on aging as a continuation of Melinda's astute career-long observations about the magic and wonder of relationships, The Wisdom Whisperers will make you laugh, reflect, learn, and may inspire you to give the book as a gift to someone dear to you. Always forthright and plain spoken, but also optimistic and good-humored, Melinda now finds herself in the ranks of these golden oldies and reminds the listeners to appreciate all that life has to offer. A wonderful upbeat and thought-provoking episode.Melinda's website:https://melindablau.com/My previous episode with Melinda about "Consequential Strangers":https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/episodes/2021-12-31T22_00_00-08_00Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/Support us!https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/support/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Social Media:YouTube: @MadActsXTwitter: @Mad_ActsBlueSky: @mad-acts.bsky.socialFB: @BooksShowsTunesIG: @Mad_ActsLI: Jennifer K. Crittenden

Join petroleum engineer Malvina Lerma as she talks about her cozy mystery series, Oilfield Mysteries, and her amateur sleuth, Charlie, a woman working in a man's world. Malvina and Jennifer talk about the oil industry, Bakersfield, the BP catastrophe, well drilling, as well as a bunch of writing-related topics: how to convey technical expertise in a novel, what makes a cozy, Malvina's influences (especially Agathie Christie), and how to get better as a writer. An upbeat conversation great for writers and mystery lovers.Malvina's website:https://oilfieldmysteries.com/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/Support us!https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/support/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Social Media:YouTube: @MadActsXTwitter: @Mad_ActsBlueSky: @mad-acts.bsky.socialFB: @BooksShowsTunesIG: @Mad_ActsLI: Jennifer K. Crittenden

The two parts of the Americana duo Tattletale Saints, Simon Stanley and Vanessa McGowen, join us today to talk about tons of music stuff: their formation and evolution, Simon's foray into kids music, Vanessa's bass playing, their move to Nashville, what makes a good cover, and why music from New Zealand might be especially innovative. Simon also talks about songwriting, and Vanessa gives advice to early musicians about making success out of passion. We also include D.I.N.K., one of The Tattletale Saints songs. You just might be a D.I.N.K.! A lovely episode for music listeners, makers, and lovers of all shapes. The Tattletale Saints website:https://www.tattletalesaints.com/Simon's website:https://www.simonstanleysays.com/Vanessa's website:https://vanessamcgowan.com/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/Support us!https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/support/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Social Media:YouTube: @MadActsXTwitter: @Mad_ActsFB: @BooksShowsTunesIG: @Mad_ActsLI: Jennifer K. Crittenden

Join us to talk about "Law of the Jungle" and "Skin of Tattoos," two of Christina's novels, both replete with interesting characters and quite absorbing . One is about a biochemist deep in the Amazonian jungle who falls in love with the perfect guy only to discover—well, you can imagine. What you might not imagine is what she does next. Drawn from Christina's experience working with LA gangs, "Skin of Tattoos" is a sympathetic story about a gang member released from jail who finds himself inexorably drawn back into his old life, only worse. Christina is a journalist with a colorful past full of rich adventures that she brings enthusiastically to her writing. A great episode for writers and curious readers who are drawn to the noir-er side of thriller novels. Christina's website:https://www.christinahoag.com/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/Support us!https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/support/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Social Media:YouTube: @MadActsXTwitter: @Mad_ActsFB: @BooksShowsTunesIG: @Mad_ActsLI: Jennifer K Crittenden

Sarah Langan, author of "A Better World" and "Good Neighbors," talks about her new dystopian novel and its frightening similarities to our current real life. In Sarah's novel, our hero, Linda, doctor and mom, is initially thrilled to be accepted into Plymouth Valley, a safe refuge for her family from an outside crazy world, but too soon she discovers that there are disturbing dark elements to this so-called utopia. In this episode, Sarah and Jennifer discuss the novel and its plot and characters, Orson Welles' 1984, the horror genre, and writing in general. A great episode for readers and writers.Sarah's website:https://sarahlangan.com/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on XTwitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Joining us to talk about the recent campus protests and their ramifications for free speech is Kristen Shahverdian of PEN America. Kristen discusses the various balls that campuses must keep in the air, considering the participants' right to free speech, safety on campus, and viewpoint-neutral policy decisions. She discusses the advice that PEN America offers to campus administrators about how to reasonably respond to protesters and what would constitute a disproportionate reaction. We dig into the history of campus protests, from the Free Speech movement to Kent State, as well as recent specific incidents at Columbia University and Indiana University. Kristen also tackles such complexities as repercussions for civil disobedience, draconian punishments, and how the protests have been represented in the media. All this, and more, for free! An important episode.PEN America's Campus Free Speech Guide:https://campusfreespeechguide.pen.org/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on XTwitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

The Sam Hinton Folk Heritage Festival at Old Poway Park in San Diego will be held June 1! We're delighted in this episode to share Sam's history through the eyes of his granddaughter Katrina Hinton-Cooper. In this wide-ranging conversation, we discuss Sam's music, his tremendous work for the Aquarium Museum of the Scripps Institute of Oceanography, and his outlook on the world, as shown through his songs, humor, drawings, and observations. We also manage to talk about science fiction, hypnosis through storytelling, circular breathing, and the joys and foibles of our peculiar species. An uplifting episode with something for everyone.Information about the Sam Hinton Festival:https://sdfolkheritage.org/events/sam-hinton-fest/Sam's website:http://samhinton.org/Katrina's blog:https://somerandomchick.jouwweb.nl/the-blogSome YouTube videos of Sam that we mention:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VGArzUTCegghttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jcSLudnKFPA&list=PL3D66F0AE1034A321https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pqTDHRau1lcThoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on XTwitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Join us as pharmacist Miffie Seideman talks about her new book from Indiana University Press, "The Grim Reader: A Pharmacist's Guide to Putting Your Characters in Peril," a great resource for fiction writers who would like to bring a bit more accuracy to their drug-related scenes. Jennifer and Miffie talk about the most egregious errors that show up in books and movies (provoking eye rolls from experts) and how more accurate scenes would result in better and less clichéd writing. We also discuss some notable oddities, such as psychedelic parenting, body packing, belladonna, and the real dangers of alcohol-related games. A fascinating episode for writers and readers alike.Miffie's excellent book:https://www.press.jhu.edu/books/cart?domain=iupress.orgMiffie's website where she offers additional information about drugs, writing, and triathlons, and will even answer questions:https://miffieseideman.com/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on XTwitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Okay, so the new memoir "Splinters" wasn't our favorite book ever, and sometimes it downright irritated us, but our investigation into what worked (and what didn't!) makes for a fascinating conversation about the nature of memoir and new trends in the genre, from "woe is me" themes to shameless self-exposure which apparently appeals to voyeuristic readers. John Julius Reel and Jennifer discuss the author, Leslie Jamison, the buzz surrounding this book, and their critiques and suggestions for what would have made this book better. Opinionated, passionate, and willing to be harsh, John and Jennifer defend their positions but acknowledge that their own perspective and age might color their view of this very contemporary memoir. A special episode for book lovers and critics.John Julius Reel's YouTube Channel "Book Rants":https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCbY7cNG-XRBsJyfWYi0DJQThoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on XTwitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Join Craig Erpelding, Director of the BFA in Cinematic Arts at Indiana University, to discuss the ways AI can be used effectively and ethically in the development of screenplays and the teaching of screenwriting. Craig bravely jumps into this fraught topic and clearly and logically explains his own research with the tool and what limitations and concerns he has uncovered. Knowing that students are going to use AI in the development of their work, he advises students and teachers alike about how AI can assist in creative work.  He argues that AI often produces C-level work, but that in itself can be used as a teaching tool. Additionally, AI can be used to improve work by critiquing elements like story structure. Craig and Jennifer also talk about screenplays that fit the Hollywood formulas, as well as meeting audience expectations, and how the intention of the filmmaker influences their choices.Craig's book "Filmmaking with Intention: A Comprehensive Guide to Creating Engaging Motion Pictures":https://www.amazon.com/Filmmaking-Intention-Comprehensive-Creating-Engaging/dp/1793521093Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on XTwitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Join us  as we talk with Teri Den Herder, longtime bookseller at the UCSD Bookstore, about Independent Bookstore Day, the annual celebration of indie bookstores, and the San Diego Book Crawl, the weekend when booklovers swarm the 13 participating bookstores in search of books, passport stamps, prizes, and surprises. We discuss the national day, how it got started, what's new this year (shuttle busses!), how the event has grown, what to expect, and how to have the most fun. We also discuss Teri's long career, the legacy she is creating with young booksellers, and the art of matching people and books, as performed by humans instead of algorithms. Also check out the participating San Diego bookstores from Diesel to Mysterious Galaxy, Joyride, La Playa, Verbatim, Bluestocking, and more. A super fun conversation about the events of this coming weekend that you don't want to miss!How to find out more about the San Diego Book Crawl:https://www.instagram.com/sdbookcrawl/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on XTwitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Join the charming Debi Derryberry as we explore her long career as a voice-over artist, including voicing Jimmy Neutron, as well as her various projects, such as the recent release of her fourth CD of children's music, Gotta Go Green. Here she generously shares her experiences, growing up with a "little voice," her foray to Nashville, and returning to California to settle into a successful acting and voice career in Hollywood which has resulted in over 400 IMDb credits (so far!). Debi also works as a voice-over teacher and coach, and she provides advice here about different types of voice-over work, and what it takes to be successful in the field. We also manage to talk about Honey Pig, heated vests, riding a killer whale, and how to make your own recording booth. Lastly, she entertains us with her "If I had a magic wand" wishes, and don't miss her new song "Earth Day Is My Birthday" at the end. A fun episode!Debi's website where you can find the "Gotta Go Green" CD and the "Voice-Over 101" book:https://www.debiderryberry.com/Debi Derryberry Kids YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAM6ZbvWAFQNRchmhO1GvXgDebi Derryberry socials: @debiderryberryThoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on XTwitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

University of San Diego law professor Donald Dripps joins us to educate us on the plea bargain system which has essentially replaced what we think of as our criminal justice system. Prof. Dripps explains why defendants waive their right to a jury trial by pleading guilty, why defense attorneys recommend taking a plea, why prosecutors offer up "deals" for alleged criminals, and the ramifications of "self-conviction." He discusses which cases tend to get pled out, in what jurisdictions, and if folks who have pled guilty are ever exonerated. He explains how mandatory sentencing minimums increase the pressure to take a plea, along with trial delays, the "trial penalty," and overburdened public defenders. Despite some of its injustices, the plea option acts like a pressure valve on our bloated criminal justice system. Prof. Dripps describes some improvements that could be made and warns us that, in its current state, the system is vulnerable to certain strategies which could bring about its collapse. A fascinating view into a complex legal network.Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on XTwitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

San Diego's own wild & crazy guy, Billy Galewood, recounts his quest for fun from Cleveland to Bushwalla and beyond. An original showman from the Java Joe days, he entertains through improv, song, rap, storytelling, and making people laugh. Here he tells the tales of musical theatre, the Cleveland Opera, early days with Jason Mraz, how meditation led to the demise of Bushwalla, his LA/SD split personality, and his reincarnation as a comic and celebrity host. He also shares the SECRET TO LIFE. Don't miss this utterly charming episode with Jennifer and Bill.The movie about Jack Tempchin by Gregory Page:https://www.midnightjackthemovie.com/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on XTwitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Rafi Kohan's new book, "Trash Talk: The Only Book About Destroying Your Rivals That Isn't Total Garbage," covers sh*t talking and its relatives: bench jockeying, the dozens, and sledging; as well as its variants from ancient times (think Odysseus and hubris). Rafi discusses the complexity of trash talk in its levels of teasing, threat, trust, and going "too far," but delves further into its effectiveness in competition, or lack thereof. He goes on to explore the research about these psychological tactics, their use in coaching, and the training used to build up mental toughness in the Special Forces. We also have a good laugh about the rivalries between siblings and between the Padres and the Dodgers. A wide-ranging fun episode with something for everyone. The book:https://www.amazon.com/Trash-Talk-Destroying-Rivals-Garbage/dp/1541788915Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on XTwitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Join Steve Denyes, of Hullabaloo, the best kids' music band in these parts (and maybe the universe!), as he chats about songwriting, kids and parents, and what has changed in the twenty years that Hullabaloo has been performing. Hullabaloo's first live album, their 15th album overall, came out this month. It was recorded live in Sun Studio, and Steve talks about what it was like to be in Memphis, learning about its history and living some of it too. We also get to talk about word play, folk songs, Feeding San Diego, and the community that has grown up around the band. An insightful episode with a thoughtful and funny musician. Hullabaloo's website:https://hullabalooband.com/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on XTwitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Dr. Helveston's new book tells the history of the Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium that was discovered and researched as a poison and how it came to be Botox, with multiple medical applications and a household word in the beauty industry. As an ophthalmologist, Dr. Helveston worked with Alan Scott who is credited with developing and manufacturing Botox although, as you'll hear in the episode, his rewards were more advancing science and having fun rather than making money. It's a fascinating tale of a remarkable person and his dedication to a useful toxin.Eugene Helveson's website:https://eugenehelveston.com/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on XTwitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Please join us for a wonderful conversation with novelist Sarah Blake about her latest novel, The Guest Book, a book described by the Washington Post as "monumental," a sweeping family drama of secrets and silence that crosses three generations but anchored by a private island off the coast of Maine. With periods set in the thirties, just before World War II, in the late fifties, just before the Civil Rights Movement, and in present day, it is very much of our time as it dares to approach the issues of racism and anti-Semitism and asks us to consider our own role in history. Sarah also talks about her challenges and rewards in writing this weighty novel. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode with a glorious writer.Sarah Blake's website:https://www.sarahblakewrites.com/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Nearly 6,000 instances of book banning have been recorded since 2021, and the book censorship movement is growing, accelerated by new laws in some states. PEN America has joined Penguin Random House, authors, and students in a lawsuit against Escambia County school district, challenging unlawful censorship. PEN America program director, Kasey Meehan, joins us to talk about the numbers, what is being banned, who is driving the movement, and what actions, both legal and grassroots, are underway to push back against this fundamental challenge to freedom of expression and our democracy.  Kasey explains in layman's terms what topics are being censored, how book ban lists are copied from state to state, and how state laws are creating a chilling effect on teachers and librarians who err on the side of "caution," by removing books or not buying them.  We discuss the principles behind freedom of expression and open discourse, as well as specifics of the book ban movement, such as Moms for Liberty and their website, booklooks.org, which provides "slick sheets," excerpts used to support book bans. Don't miss this essential episode.The PEN America Call to Action webpage:https://pen.org/issue/free-the-books/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/ 

Matt Singer, author of Opposable Thumbs: How Siskel and Ebert Changed Movies Forever, joins us to discuss two TV guys who argued passionately about movies for over twenty years, during a period when American Cinema was in its heyday, and film criticism rose to the challenge. Matt's book covers the history of S&E's successful collaboration, somewhat surprising since they were first longform movie critics from competing Chicago newspapers, before they joined thumbs and their Two Thumbs Up! became a household movie endorsement. Matt describes the relationship, respect, and competition between the two, as well as his own relationship with Roger Ebert, and the history of S&E's work, how it evolved, what they did well, and maybe some places they missed the boat. Our conversation runs the gamut from fun stuff like skunks on the show to deeper questions about film criticism today. Matt's extraordinary knowledge about the history of S&E, as well as his enthusiasm for Siskel and Ebert as people and critics, for their show, and for movies in general bubbles forth in this episode. Whether you remember Siskel and Ebert or not, don't miss this episode about an extraordinary period in American Film.Matt's website:https://www.matt-singer.net/Matt's day job (read his articles here):https://screencrush.com/Matt on Letterboxd: @superpulsehttps://letterboxd.com/superpulse/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

American streets killed more than 7500 pedestrians in 2023, a 40-year high and climbing every year. Why? City planner and walkable cities advocate Jeff Speck joins us to explain that street design is largely to blame and how modest changes could be made to increase safety, as has been done in European cities with dramatic results. Jeff uses traffic studies to show how urban planning can affect driver speed, traffic congestion, safety, and walkability—all of which can improve and restore our sense of community in the places we live. With wonderful examples of the many cities where Jeff has completed projects, this episode will get you thinking about your neighborhood and what changes you would like to see, be it more trees, pleasanter streets, or simply fewer deaths. Also, we have a new website! Check us out at https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/Jeff Speck's website:https://www.speckdempsey.com/Jeff's book, Walkable City (be sure to get the Tenth Anniversary edition)https://www.amazon.com/Walkable-City-Tenth-Anniversary-Downtown/dp/1250857988The movie that Jeff mentions, The Street Projecthttps://www.amazon.com/Street-Project-Maya-Aoki-Tuttle/dp/B0B6VW7MQ3The Strong Towns Movement:https://www.strongtowns.org/The Releaf Cedar Rapids Project:https://www.cedar-rapids.org/residents/parks_and_recreation/releaf_cedar_rapids_.phpThoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Duke copyright law professor Jennifer Jenkins joins us to celebrate and explain Public Domain Day.  After a twenty-year hiatus, copyrighted works began moving into the public domain in 2019. Now each year, we can re-discover works that are available to be re-purposed by creators without the legal burden of obtaining permission from the former copyright holders. This year, for example, includes works such as The House at Pooh Corner, Millions of Cats, The ThreePenny Opera, and the 800-pound mouse, as Jennifer calls him, Mickey Mouse (as well as Minnie) as seen in Steamboat Willie. Interestingly, in the context of our recent conversation about censorship, Lady Chatterly's Love enters the public domain this year and now can be explored and built upon by everyone. We also discuss Poor Things, the new film paying homage to Shelley's Frankenstein.  Jennifer explains it all in this lively episode: what copyright law is and was, what it covers, why the copyright period was extended, and what you, as a creator, can do with works now in the public domain.  We also get to talk about art, inspiration, Disney, monetization,  plagiarism, creative commons licenses —and even a bit more about Tom Lehrer.Jennifer's article about Public Domain Day 2024:https://web.law.duke.edu/cspd/publicdomainday/2024/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsletter_axiosam&stream=topThoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Indiana University English professor Michael Adams returns to talk about taboo language and historical attempts to document it and suppress it. He bravely takes on the fraught issues around the f-word, bathroom graffiti, obscene literature, Shakespeare, and even hate speech. Along the way, he enlightens us about the Comstock Act, Tijuana bibles, smuggling contraband books, and daring scholars who persisted in studying forbidden language, particularly those supported by Madeleine Kripke, whose remarkable book collection continues to be literally unpacked by the Lilly Library. We also discuss the protection of free expression by the Constitution and the important role of universities in balancing  American values and ideals and providing broad access to knowledge. We discuss the recent and on-going controversy surrounding the university presidents' Congressional testimony, Indiana's de-funding of IU's Kinsey Institute, and the styles of censorship in fashion today. And finally, Michael shares some interesting data about swearing and intelligence, and we learn what delulu means. A wonderfully meaty and tasty episode!Link to the episode when Michael first talked about the Kripke Collection:https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/episodes/2022-04-01T14_00_00-07_00Link to "Strong Language," the fun publication that Michael talks about:https://stronglang.wordpress.com/2023/04/29/your-gal-aint-doodly-squat/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

The great Tom Lehrer has a new album! Put out by Needlejuice records and mixed by our guest, Jeff Morris, from the original reel-to-reel tapes, it's a compilation of all of Tom's songs recorded with an orchestra, now available in stereo for the first time. This gives us a wonderful excuse to revisit Tom's unusual career, his transition from touring artist to UC-Santa Cruz math instructor, and some of our favorite songs, like Silent E, which we include in the podcast.  Jeff tells the story of how he met Tom when Jeff was writing a paper on satire in high school and their subsequent friendship and the discovery of the orchestral tapes in Tom's basement. We also talk about Tom's recent attempt to share his music by placing all his songs in the public domain, which shows just what an extraordinary person he is. Merry Christmas to you all, and, as Tom would say, hail Santa and his reindeer, but don't stand underneath when they fly by. And in the spirit of Christmas, go buy his new album!Jeff Morris's website:morrisstudios.comTom Lehrer's website:tomlehrersongs.comJeff's Dr. Demento website:dmdb.orgWhere to buy the album:https://needlejuicerecords.com/products/the-conducted-tom-lehrer-cdThoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Join bestselling author J. Ryan Stradal to discuss his third novel, Saturday Night at the Lakeside Supper Club, a celebration of food and drink across four generations in Minnesota. J. Ryan contrasts four female voices, four decades, and two restaurants, one a traditional supper club, and the second a chain restaurant, similar to a Denny's. The result is an exploration of our times and our evolving relationship with food and drink, health, and community. J. Ryan also discusses his writing during the pandemic and thoughts about characters and editorial choices. We also manage to talk about culture, deer, smoking, heritage, and a little bit about politics. Don't miss this lovely warm conversation, and don't forget to pick up a copy as a gift for your favorite food lover.J. Ryan's website:http://www.jryanstradal.com/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Author Dale Bridges joins us to discuss his first novel, The Mean Reds, a fun mystery novel featuring Sam, the self-deluded, weed-addled, but utterly relatable film buff protagonist, who encounters a hilarious cast of characters as he attempts to investigate the death of a stripper. Dale talks about the setting of the novel in Mountainview, a liberal college town, how he developed his characters, and how the novel was ultimately published by a university press. Dale also discusses his own development as a writer and offers advice for how others can persist and improve. The Mean Reds is a fun read and would make a great holiday gift, especially for movie buffs.Dale's website, including how to buy the bookhttps://dalebridges.org/Dale's art-related website:https://www.dalebridgesart.com/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Join Charles Beeker, Indiana University professor and director of the IU Center for Underwater Science, to talk about shipwrecks, underwater treasures and resources, and the surrounding web of related ethical and legal issues. From Indiana shipwrecks (yes! Indiana has shipwrecks and an interesting maritime history) to the Titanic, the Monitor, and Columbia's San José, each historical object is unique, but all serve to lure us into the deep, to learn their stories or investigate what lies beneath. Charlie discusses the controversy over the San José's cargo, estimated at $1.7 billion, currently the subject of a number of lawsuits (no surprise), and this summer's tragedy of the submersible that imploded while traveling down to investigate the Titanic. A expert in diving and underwater research, as well as the technological advances in this work, Charlie has also strived for decades to recognize and preserve these artifacts and explores today on the show the various considerations that must go into underwater treasure hunting. A fascinating episode about hidden but compelling things.A link to the IU Center for Underwater Science:https://underwaterscience.indiana.edu/index.htmlThoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/

DOJ Attorney Brendan Ballou discusses his new book, "Plunder: Private Equity's Plan to Pillage America." Ever wonder why we seem to have fewer airlines, fewer retail stores, fewer drugstores, and the same names keep showing up on businesses from rental agencies to nursing homes to mobile home parks? Why did all those long-lasting businesses fail in the past 15 years? (Hint: it's not all Amazon.'s fault.) Doesn't it seem as though fewer people own their own homes? Who got all that Covid money? And why do there seem to be some astonishingly rich folks around? Join us for a remarkable episode about dramatic shifts in basic industries and in the re-distribution of wealth in America. [Views expressed in the book and this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the Department of Justice.]Plunder, the book (PublicAffairs, 2023):https://www.plunderthebook.com/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/

Musicologist Cary Ginell joins us to talk about his new book, "Carefully Taught: American History through Broadway Musicals." Cary is a wealth of information about music in general (and lots of other topics too!), but especially about musicals. Here he talks about musicals that were fairly accurate from a historical standpoint, or why they strayed, and others that stomped all over history with wild abandon. He also couches their creation or production in the time period they covered or during which they were produced with thoughtful consideration of the dark parts of our country's history. A lively discussion ranging from early musicals to favorites, such as South Pacific, The Music Man, Oklahoma, Ragtime, Hamilton, and many more.Cary's page on Amazon:https://www.amazon.com/stores/Cary-Ginell/author/B001H6W2QQ?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=trueThoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/

John Julius Reel's new memoir, My Half Orange, is a sweet story of John moving to Seville, Spain and meeting his better half and starting a family. Join us for this intimate conversation about John's maturation into a family man, to his surprise and joy, along with his revelations about learning Spanish and Sevillian ways. The son of Bill Reel, the well known New York Daily News columnist, as well as the creator of the popular YouTube channel Book Rants, John also shares his insights about writing and how he became a better writer himself. A thoughtful conversation about memoirs.John Julius Reel's website:https://johnjuliusreel.com/My Half Orange, A Story of Love and Language in Sevillehttps://johnjuliusreel.com/books/my-half-orange/The podcast episode with Mike Jaccarino about the NY newspaper wars that John and I talk about:https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/episodes/2020-05-01T05_00_00-07_00Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/

Bill and Jennifer cover over 40 songs in this fun fast-moving discussion of scary songs, ranging from creepy-sounding songs to songs that are especially horrifying because they don't sound scary at all. From old murder ballads to kicky pop tunes, lyrics about serial killers, theme songs, earworm songs, mysterious odes, nursery rhymes, songs designed to scare your parents, ghoulish tales we love, and those we never (ever) want to hear again, we cover the gamut! Write in and tell us what we forgot. A just-in-time-for-Halloween episode. Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on X/Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/

Join us for a fun episode as we chat with Ben Vaughn about the art and pitfalls of the Mix Tape, a passion of Bill's and mine. We talk about why we do it, the selection process, transitions, the dreaded fadeout, and the outrage of some devices jumbling the song order thereby ruining—ruining, I tell you—our genius segues. We also discuss old radio DJs, song dedications, teenagers, and nostalgia. Ben talks about how he selects music for his radio show, The Many Moods of Ben Vaughn, his latest project with Relay Shack Records, and a special show he did with the Geator of old-but-never-before-heard song dedications. Lots of laughs. With Bill Aho.Our Sponsor, Thematic:https://hellothematic.com/Thematic's special code for our listeners:FA11PROMO (one month free at the Premium level)Ben's website:http://benvaughn.org/The Lost Dedications Radio Special:https://soundcloud.com/anyoods/sets/the-lost-dedications-with-jerry-blavat-and-ben-vaughnThoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/

Join us as we welcome Jeff Keane, the current cartoonist of Family Circus, the incredibly successful one-panel cartoon, now over 60 years old and featured in 1500 newspapers worldwide. Jeff talks about the real-life family behind the cartoon; his dad, Bil, the originator of the cartoon; the National Cartoonists Society; humor; creativity; and all kinds of fun things. A wonderful episode with Bill Aho co-hosting.Where to see the Family Circus cartoons:https://comicskingdom.com/family-circus/archiveThoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/

Animation Resources is a non-profit with a terrific website where a wealth of creative material awaits you! Members also receive a monthly packet of interesting surprises, both old and new. Director Stephen Worth joins us today to talk about what animation is (very intriguing answers), his background, the origins of Animation Resources, what AI could do for the field, how animation could go so far beyond Disney, and creativity in general. It's a wonderful, thought-provoking episode. With Bill Aho.Animation Resources website:https://animationresources.org/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/

Steve Boyle and Webb Wilder join us to present a project that has been in the works for decades and will emerge this year, we hope, on a radio near you! In the 1980s, Steve and Webb began working on a neo-noir detective series, riffing on the anti-commercial commercials that they produced for Hard Rock Cafe back in the day. It came from Nashville, first in the form of a proposed TV series, then a script, then a book, then an audiobook, and now a full-fledged radio show. You'll also get to hear the teaser for the show in this fun episode.The website for the project:https://webbwilderlastofthefullgrownmen.com/Webb's website:https://www.webbwilder.com/The First Amendment Project that Steve talks about:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-a3rRNYU8m8The Radio Station Webb talks about and where you can hear Webb in the afternoons:https://www.wmot.org/program-schedule#weekly-scheduleCity Without a Subway, Steve's documentary:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ocsn3yRN0w4Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/

Join us as author David Sax returns to talk about two books, "The Revenge of Analog" and "The Future Is Analog," one written in 2016 and the recent one written during the pandemic. Jennifer and David talk about the analog / digital aspects of education, work, and housing, as well as delving into teaching, books, humans, and virtual headsets. David's observations are astute, thoughtful, and often funny. Don't miss this fun episode with a lively guest.This episode is sponsored by: mypostglow.comDavid's website: https://saxdavid.com/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/

Join Peter Fulks, a Cerro Coso Community College professor and  a leading faculty in the development of the College's Incarcerated Students Education Program, a national leader in face-to-face higher education in prison. Here he takes us through the goals and results of the program, including the remarkable data regarding recidivism, reduction in violence inside the prisons, closing of prisons, and public safety. He talks about the administrative, bureaucratic, and economic challenges that the program has faced, and how this intrepid group of faculty members has managed to expand the program and win over its skeptics. If you're looking for an uplifting episode about education, this is it. A link to information about the program:https://www.cerrocoso.edu/incarcerated-student-education-programThoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/

Join us for a rollicking conversation with Swamp Dogg, hard-working soul and R&B singer, who has been performing since the 50s and is still going strong. We chat about his long career, his friendship with John Prine, ambitious projects in the works, including yet another album (!) and an associated movie, along with some wacky tangents into parties with coffins, writing songs while drinking, cremation promo calls, and his intimidating keyboard player. Those who know Swamp Dogg, love him, and you'll see why in this episode. We also get to share Good Better Best, his song about women. With Bill Aho.Swamp Dogg's website:https://www.theswampdogg.com/The YouTube Concert for Sorry You Couldn't Make It:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43eGIdXipJ8Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Post.News:@JenCrittendenJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/

Join Indiana University College of Arts & Sciences Executive Dean Rick Van Kooten for a terrific conversation, ranging from capitalism to fruit flies. In between we talk about  what's included in the College and why, Rick's history at the school (being Canadian and all), experimental physics, research funding, and the first uses of the World Wide Web (probably a lot more fun than what you think). We dig deep into the value and cost of a liberal arts education and mull over alternatives in apprenticeships and technical training. We also talk about how real science and "science" has been used during the pandemic. This episode was recorded in Jennifer's hometown of Bloomington, Indiana and at her alma mater, so it was a chance for some nostalgic thoughts about what she studied at IU and her father's work in the Physics Department where Rick also worked and eventually became the chair. A thoughtful and thought-provoking episode.Rick's bio:https://college.indiana.edu/about/leadership/rick-van-kooten.htmlThoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/ 

Join San Diego native Lauren Leigh Martin, as she talks about her singing career and upcoming second album. She talks about her musical influences: her aunt, Eve Selis; her dad, Claudio Martin; her album co-producer, Jeff Berkeley; and her musical partner, Sam Hunt. The past few years have been a challenge, with breakups, the pandemic, motherhood, and mental health, but Lauren has channeled that into her work and pushed herself to expand musically. Lauren discusses the life of a professional musician, including starting with a fall-back plan, financial considerations, touring, and drugs and alcohol. She also reveals the behind-the-scenes story of her singing Pink Floyd's Great Gig in the Sky on tour, opening for Foreigner. A great San Diego episode with Bill Aho.Lauren's album release party - Jan 4, 2023https://bellyup.com/calendar/12560515/lauren-leigh-w-eve-selis-omo-cloud-ghost-in-the-picture-album-release-seated-show/Lauren Leigh's website:https://www.laurenleighmusic.com/"Blinding Lights" with Sam Hunthttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=doB8d1ypdqMThoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/

Podcaster, poet, and educator Alex Chambers and Jennifer talk about—well, a lot of stuff. We start with "Inner States," Alex's radio show on WFIU from Bloomington, Indiana and chat about people's misconceptions about the Midwest and the Fly-Over states. We talk about how people and sounds form our impressions about a place, sometimes correctly and sometimes incorrectly. Jennifer whines about bad training programs, and Alex offers some advice about good teaching. He contrasts poetry and podcasting and what he likes about each medium. He also reads a great poem about Buffy the Vampire Slayer! A wonderful episode about learning and understanding. Alex's Show "Inner States"https://www.npr.org/podcasts/1071403082/w-f-i-u-inner-statesAlex's podcast "How to Survive the Future"https://indianahumanities.org/future/Alex's book of poetry, "Binding: A Preparation"https://www.ledgemulepress.org/releases/binding-a-preparation-by-alex-chambersThoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/ 

Author and humorist Michael Branch joins us to talk about his new book, "On the Trail of the Jackalope: How a Legend Captured the World's Imagination and Helped Us Cure Cancer." He delves into the storied history of the mythological creature, often memorialized as a tongue-in-cheek hunting trophy, as well as its association with the American West, tall tales, and Wall Drug. He explains the phenomenon of the very real horned rabbits and how scientists, building on the work of virologist Richard Shope, used those cancerous growths on rabbits to develop the HPV vaccine. Mike also reports on his experience at a taxidermy workshop in, of all places, San Francisco. We muse about why people love the Jackalope, its importance in the historical and cultural landscape of the United States, and why things that fire up our imagination matter. Mike is a wonderful storyteller; you don't want to miss this episode.Mike's website:https://michaelbranchwriter.com/The Okey Dokey Brothers' song that we discuss:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bPLtMrGchfAThoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/

Dr. Christiane Wrann, researcher at MGH and associate professor at Harvard, has published some exciting new discoveries about the effect of exercise on the brain, potentially slowing cognitive decline and in some cases even reversing brain deterioration. She takes us through her work in mouse models, how her lab selects and "exercises" the mice, how cognitive decline is measured in mice, and the role of irisin, a hormone that appears to be linked to exercise and brain health. In everyday language, she explains this scientific research, what its limitations are, and what its potential might be for Alzheimer patients and their families. She also offers practical advice about incorporating exercise into your daily activities, what kind and how much is most beneficial, and ways to make it enjoyable, instead of just another thing to stress out about (although exercise helps reduce stress too!).  An essential episode.Follow Dr. Wrann on Twitter:@WrannLabThe McCance Center for Brain Health Test Dr. Wrann mentioned:https://www.massgeneral.org/neurology/mccance-center/clinic/brain-care-scoreThoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/

Trina Robbins was memorialized as the first of Joni Mitchell's Ladies of the Canyon with her sketches and second-hand clothes, but, don't be fooled, Trina is a serious archivist of feminist art history. She drew for underground newspapers during the Women's Lib movement of the sixtes and has published multiple anthologies of early women in comics. In this episode, we discuss many of her books, including her memoir, Last Girl Standing, and the documentary she is featured in, They're Beautiful When They're Angry. And she still loves clothes! So we talk about her favorite era, vintage clothes, and where to find them. Trina was the first woman to draw Wonder Woman, so we talk about her and what it was like to be an early female cartoonist in a man's field. We also discuss the weather and the pros and cons of New York versus California. A really lovely episode. With Bill Aho.Come find Trina at the San Francisco FanExpo this weekend, Nov 25-27!https://fanexpohq.com/fanexposanfrancisco/Trina's memoir:https://bookshop.org/p/books/last-girl-standing-trina-robbins/12493623?ean=9781683960140Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/

Join The Walking Dead co-producer and entrepreneur Oleg Livits to talk about this phenomenal show whose eleventh and final season is airing now. The Walking Dead poses as a zombie show, but it is about so much more: survival, lawlessness, community, morality and death. Based on a comic book series, this record-setting and acclaimed AMC+ series has generated 177 episodes and multiple spinoffs; it also boasts an enormous and engaged fan base. Oleg takes us through the show's history, the commitment of its contributors and stakeholders, and the challenges that arose during the pandemic. We also talk about a new project that he is developing, Friendly Heat, which is a travel docu-series about saunas and their health benefits. Oleg is observant and entertaining—you don't want to miss this episode.The Walking Dead Wiki that we refer to:https://walkingdead.fandom.com/wiki/The_Walking_Dead_WikiOleg's Friendly Heat project:https://vimeo.com/759369294?utm_source=email&utm_medium=vimeo-cliptranscode-201504&utm_campaign=28749Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/

Translator Tiffany Tsao joins us to discuss her recent project, the first publication in English of Indonesian writer Budi Darma's collection of short stories, "People from Bloomington." So much to talk about with this book! Darma's usual absurdist but very human eye crosses over here into more realistic fiction although readers familiar with Bloomington, Indiana may find the town rather transformed. The collection was originally published only in Indonesian, so Tiffany takes us through her process of capturing his voice in English with the kind of earthy and often very funny tone he used to present the odd Midwesterners. We also talk about cross-cultural writing, especially between east and west, and how book marketers struggle with books that have a truly global perspective, even though they are more reflective of our current world. Darma wrote his dissertation on Jane Austen in Bloomington, and we also chat about his literary influences, as well as his doctoral advisor and longtime Indiana University English professor, Don Gray. A wonderful literary episode.An upcoming online event to honor Budi Darma:https://burlingame.libcal.com/event/9407717 Learn more about Tiffany Tsao here:https://tiffanytsao.com/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/

Jeff Berkley, musician, producer, and go-to guy for all things music in San Diego, talks about the current climate for musicians, as well as the old days at Java Joe's in Poway and Ocean Beach. With many projects in the works, he brings us up to speed on who is doing what in town and his new band "Jeff Berkley and the Banned" (we also feature one of their new songs!). Jennifer, Bill, and Jeff mull over some ideas to promote and enhance the music scene in San Diego, and Jeff brings his customary good humor and pragmatic approach to today's challenges in the music industry. With Bill Aho (he's also back!).Jeff's website:https://jeffberkley.com/Jeff Berkley and the Banned Facebook page:https://m.facebook.com/JEFFBERKLEYANDTHEBANNED/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/

Poet and novelist Sarah Blake joins us to talk about her new genre-bending novel, Clean Air, a post-apocalyptic narrative centered on one small family and town that (as if they don't have enough to worry about) must cope with a serial killer. It's a fascinating original book about survival, anxiety, and motherhood, but also funny and hopeful. Sarah talks about world-building, her own health experiences, the models for her characters, biology, and writing in general. I loved this interview, and I think you will too. Sarah's website:https://sarahblakeauthor.com/Follow Sarah on Twitter:@blakesarahThoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/

CEO and co-founder, Josh Simons, joins us to talk about Vampr, the world's premier social network for musicians. Founded by two sympathetic Australian musicians, Josh (of Buchanan) and Baz Palmer (of Hunters & Collectors), Vampr has grown to over one million users and has facilitated over seven million connections. Josh takes us inside the algorithms to explain how like-minded musicians find each other and how the platform matches musicians with those of similar skill levels, in part with a philosophy of quality through quantity. Josh and Jennifer also discuss the challenges of networking (why people hate it), best attitudes for finding useful connections, and how to leverage those connections to build lasting, productive relationships. With Vampr, Josh hopes to accelerate the typical musician's path to "quitting your day job" and doing music full-time, so that young people don't have to endure those typical hard years. No matter how romantic "paying your dues" may sound, it's a barrier for too many, and we all lose out when that talent gets lost. An interesting reflection on the state of music and musicianship today, especially for those just starting out.More about Vampr,https://www.vampr.me/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/

Something that makes the United States special is our constitutional protection of free speech. CEO of Pen America, Suzanne Nossel, joins us to talk about her new (really great) book, Dare to Speak: Defending Free Speech for All, and important aspects of open discourse in today's political and social context. Suzanne addresses the tension between free speech and equity/inclusion considerations, how to talk about free speech without antagonizing people, and that we shouldn't confuse speech with violence. Her straightforward and well-written book outlines appropriate behavior for speakers, listeners, citizens, and policy makers to preserve our essential protection from government repression. Suzanne further addresses in the podcast how to balance free speech with harassment and misinformation, particularly by government agencies and social media platforms. A quintessentially American episode.Suzanne book at bookshop.orghttps://bookshop.org/books/dare-to-speak-defending-free-speech-for-all/9780062966049Follow Suzanne on Twitter:https://twitter.com/SuzanneNosselThe PEN America website:https://pen.org/Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-actsSupport us on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/discreetguideJennifer on Twitter:@DiscreetGuideJennifer on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/Discreet Guide Training:https://training.discreetguide.com/