Watching America

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Hosted by British born host Dr. Alan Campbell, Watching America combines interviews, engaging audio, and deep dive talks in to our local and national culture through the eloquent and ever-curious lens of a ‘Brit’ who has spent over two decades ‘figuring it all out’; Watching America.

WHRO Public Media


    • Jan 3, 2024 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 53m AVG DURATION
    • 224 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Watching America

    Scott Eyman on Charlie Chaplin Beyond The Screen

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 3, 2024


    Known as one of the greatest entertainers in movie history, Charlie Chaplin rose to fame in the silent films of the nineteen-hundreds, and created one of the most iconic characters ever seen on the screen. But his career was derailed after being caught in the crossfire of political turmoil and mired in scandal. As a result, he was exiled from the U-S during the post-war Red Scare. On today's final installment of Watching America, best-selling Hollywood biographer and film historian Scott Eyman takes us behind the scenes of the tumultuous life of this famed cinematic genius. We'll explore Chaplin's politics, his controversies, and the relentless pursuit of his artistic vision.

    Scott Eyman: Charlie Chaplin - Beyond The Screen

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2023


    Known as one of the greatest entertainers in movie history, Charlie Chaplin rose to fame in the silent films of the nineteen-hundreds, and created one of the most iconic characters ever seen on the screen. But his career was derailed after being caught in the crossfire of political turmoil and mired in scandal. As a result, he was exiled from the U-S during the post-war Red Scare. On today's final installment of WATCHING AMERICA, best-selling Hollywood biographer and film historian Scott Eyman takes us behind the scenes of the tumultuous life of this famed cinematic genius. We'll explore Chaplin's politics, his controversies, and the relentless pursuit of his artistic vision

    Scott Eyman: Charlie Chaplin - Beyond The Screen

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2023


    Known as one of the greatest entertainers in movie history, Charlie Chaplin rose to fame in the silent films of the nineteen-hundreds, and created one of the most iconic characters ever seen on the screen. But his career was derailed after being caught in the crossfire of political turmoil and mired in scandal. As a result, he was exiled from the U-S during the post-war Red Scare. On today's final installment of WATCHING AMERICA, best-selling Hollywood biographer and film historian Scott Eyman takes us behind the scenes of the tumultuous life of this famed cinematic genius. We'll explore Chaplin's politics, his controversies, and the relentless pursuit of his artistic vision

    Scott Eyman on Charlie Chaplin Beyond The Screen

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2023


    Known as one of the greatest entertainers in movie history, Charlie Chaplin rose to fame in the silent films of the nineteen-hundreds, and created one of the most iconic characters ever seen on the screen. But his career was derailed after being caught in the crossfire of political turmoil and mired in scandal. As a result, he was exiled from the U-S during the post-war Red Scare. On today's final installment of Watching America, best-selling Hollywood biographer and film historian Scott Eyman takes us behind the scenes of the tumultuous life of this famed cinematic genius. We'll explore Chaplin's politics, his controversies, and the relentless pursuit of his artistic vision.

    Katy Milkman: Unveiling the Secrets of Lasting Change

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 22, 2023 53:19


    Looking for a new start? Want to begin some new habits? It turns out science can help you get from where you are to where you want to be. Award-winning Wharton Professor Katy Milkman is a trailblazer in behavioral science. She has devoted her career to the study of behavior change exploring ways that insights from economics and psychology can be harnessed to change consequential behaviors for good, such as financial habits, exercise, student achievement, and discrimination. To that end, she co-founded and co-directs the Behavior Change for Good Initiative at the University of Pennsylvania. She is also the author of the bestselling book “How to Change: The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be.” In this interview with Dr. Alan Campbell, she shares her proven strategies to overcome obstacles, conquer procrastination, and finally achieve your goals. https://www.katymilkman.com

    Clancy Martin: How Not to Kill Yourself

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 15, 2023 53:19


    The last time Clancy Martin tried to kill himself was in his basement with a dog leash. It was one of over 10 suicide attempts throughout the course of his life. Yet, he survived — as he had numerous times before. Martin is a prolific author and a professor of philosophy. His research covers the ethics of social and behavioral health, especially in the areas of suicide prevention and the treatment of addiction. In his new book, “How Not to Kill Yourself,” Martin chronicles his multiple suicide attempts in an intimate depiction of the mindset of someone obsessed with self-destruction.

    Hampton Court Palace: 500 Years of History

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 8, 2023 53:19


    From the Tudors to the Windsors - intrigue, scandals, and power took center stage within the halls of the magnificent and breathtaking Hampton Court Palace. This week author Gareth Russell takes us through 500 years of history in the palace that was home to such significant events as the commissioning of King James's version of the Bible, the staging of many of Shakespeare's plays, and Queen Elizabeth II's coronation ball. We explore the riveting ups and downs of royal happenings, the exciting victories, the personal tragedies and the historical significance.

    A Conversation With Filmmaker Jerry Aronson

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 1, 2023 53:19


    From his early days in photography capturing President Eisenhower to the gripping tales of Native American lives in "The Divided Trail" and the environmental masterpiece "Chasing Ice," filmmaker Jerry Aronson has had an illustrious career. Aronson has been capturing the stories of others since age 15. One of his best-known films is “The Life and Times of Allen Ginsberg,” a winner of the International Documentary Association Award in 1993, a finalist for a Peabody award, as well as over 250 national and international awards and screenings. This week, he joins Dr. Alan Campbell to share about his extraordinary career and the challenges and triumphs that shaped his remarkable journey in the world of filmmaking. Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at some of the most impactful documentaries in cinematic history.

    Americans in London: Benjamin Franklin, Jimi Hendrix, Sam Wanamaker

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2023 53:19


    Take a trip to London, England. Host (and native Brit) Alan Campbell took a trip "across the pond" to visit the home of Benjamin Franklin, Jimi Hendrix's flat, and the reconstructed Globe Theatre where actor and director Sam Wanamaker labored for years. We hear stories from historians and tour guides about why these gentleman fell in love with London and what they accomplished there. This episode of Watching America originally aired September 2022, soon after the passing of Queen Elizabeth.

    Alan Cosgrove: Rumours of Fleetwood Mac

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2023 53:19


    They have performed for over 950,000 Fleetwood Mac fans across the world to date, and they have garnered over 100-million views across YouTube. How do they capture the heart and soul that lies behind the music of one of the most popular rock bands in the world? This week Dr. Alan Campbell speaks with Alan Cosgrove, founding member and drummer of the band Rumours of Fleetwood Mac.

    Jill Duggar: Counting the Cost

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2023 53:19


    Jill Duggar Dillard grew up as star on the hit TLC reality TV show “19 Kids and Counting.“ She was the first Duggar daughter to marry, and over 4.4 million people tuned in to watch the two-hour televised wedding. Viewers were fascinated with her family's way of life and their strict adherence to teachings that Jill now calls cult-like. In their new book, ”Counting the Cost,“ Jill and her husband, Derick, share the behind-the-scenes moments that remained hidden from viewers. Now they are raising a family of their own, they say they are done with secrets and are looking forward to blazing their own trail as the Dillards.

    Eerie Excursions: Unearthing the Mysteries of America's Cemeteries and Tombstone Tourism

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2023 53:19


    Get ready for a spine-tingling journey through the realm of the departed. We're unearthing the secrets of cemeteries with two exciting guests. YouTuber Arthur Dark is an expert on tombstone tourism and offers video tours of the final resting places of famous entertainers. And author Greg Melville takes readers on a tour of some of the nation's most intriguing cemeteries. Join Dr. Alan Campbell and his guests for an eerie excursion through our nation's graveyards.

    Douglas Brunt: The Mysterious Case of Rudolf Diesel

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2023 53:19


    Acclaimed novelist Douglas Brunt served as CEO of a tech company until he decided to become an author. Now he writes full time and hosts a popular podcast on which he interviews some of the world's greatest writers — giving a behind-the-scenes look at their creative process. Though he's best known for his award-winning novels, Douglas' new work tackles the 100-year-old, real-life mystery of the disappearance of inventor Rudolf Diesel. The famous inventor disappeared into thin air on the eve of World War I. What happened to him? Acclaimed writer Douglas Brunt says he has solved the mystery.

    Dr. Terry Lindvall: Exploring the Work of Literary Giant C.S. Lewis

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2023 53:19


    From the magical world of Narnia to the thoughtful exploration of the Christian faith found in the pages of “Mere Christianity,” author C.S. Lewis made faith accessible to a wide audience. Dr. Terry Lindvall is a distinguished C.S. Lewis scholar, and he joins Dr. Alan Campbell this week on Watching America to discuss how Lewis answered the toughest questions found in the Christian faith. Lindvall is the C.S. Lewis Endowed Chair in Communication and Christian Thought at Virginia Wesylan University. He has spent years studying the life and works of author C.S. Lewis — even writing his own book about Lewis, “Surprised by Laughter: The Comic World of C. S. Lewis.”

    Remembering Patsy Cline

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2023 53:19


    Music legend Patsy Cline was born as Virginia Patterson Hensley in Winchester, Virginia. From humble beginnings she rose to become known as one of country music's greatest vocalists. Tragically, her life was cut short at age 30 when she died in a plane crash. In this episode of Watching America, host Dr. Alan Campbell discusses Cline's music and legacy with her cousin Patricia Hensley and Cline's daughter Julie Fudge. This episode originally aired on WHRV 89.5 FM on October 21, 2023.

    Capturing Truth: A Conversation with Renowned Documentary Filmmaker John Scheinfeld

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2023 53:19


    When his parents took him to a local movie theatre to see Lawrence of Arabia at the age of 12, John Scheinfeld was completely captivated and began to dream of a career in Hollywood. Today, he is best known for his highly personal, idiosyncratic documentary films. He has been entrusted with the significant legacies of such iconic artists as Herb Alpert, Nat ‘King' Cole, Bob Hope, John Lennon, Sergio Mendes, Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, and more. One of his most recent projects examines “What the Hell happened to Blood, Sweat and Tears?” Hot off their spectacular Grammy win for Album of the Year, the popular band became the first American rock band to perform behind the Iron Curtain, but they soon found themselves in the crossfire of a political firestorm. This week, Scheinfeld joins host Dr. Alan Campbell to talk about this documentary and the many other interesting topics he has tackled during his prolific career. https://crewneckproductions.com

    Jonathan Losos: The Cat's Meow

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2023 53:19


    Do lions and tigers meow? Why does your cat keep leaving dead mice on the doorstep? From ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics to the vast array of modern cat breeds, the world has always had a unique relationship with cats. This week we are entering their fascinating world, with an evolutionary biologist as our guide. Jonathan Losos is an evolutionary biologist at Washington University and the founding director of the Living Earth Collaborative, a unique biodiversity center and partnership between Washington University, the Saint Louis Zoo and the Missouri Botanical Garden. But he is also a cat lover! His new book — aptly titled “The Cat's Meow,” — explores how researchers today are unraveling the secrets of cats, past and present, using all the tools of modern technology, from GPS tracking and genomics to forensic archaeology.

    Trumpeting Success: Chris Botti's Journey in Music

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2023 53:19


    Acclaimed trumpeter Chris Botti has collaborated with some of the biggest superstars on the planet, including Sting, Paul Simon, Barbra Streisand, Lady Gaga, Tony Bennett, Frank Sinatra, Aretha Franklin, and more. He successfully crossed over from jazz renown to pop stardom — but his first album in more than a decade finds him crossing back. “Vol.1,” releasing in October from Blue Note Records, is in many ways a fresh start for the trumpeter. It is a small group project focused on acoustic jazz and classic standards. “I turned 60 in 2022, at a time that seemed like a restart for so many things in the world,” Botti said. “I wanted to strip away all the orchestral arrangements and special guests and focus more on my playing, the playing of my band, and these jazz classics that we always love playing on stage.” He joins Dr. Alan Campbell this week on Watching America to talk about his career and his latest project. https://chrisbotti.com

    A Conversation With Jazz Artist Kat Edmonson

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2023 53:19


    Born in Texas, Kat Edmonson was raised on the music and film of the early-to-mid-twentieth century, and she has been writing songs since she was a little girl. The vintage jazzy pop singer is a rare artist who embodies the spirit of the past while remaining resolutely current. She began crafting her signature sound while performing in Austin's local club circuit for years before releasing her debut album. Today you'll find her performing on stages across the United States, Europe, and Asia. She joins Dr. Alan Campbell this week to talk about her life, her music, and what led her to follow this path. https://katedmonson.com

    A Conversation With Jazz Artist Kat Edmonson

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2023 53:19


    Born in Texas, Kat Edmonson was raised on the music and film of the early-to-mid-twentieth century, and she has been writing songs since she was a little girl. The vintage jazzy pop singer is a rare artist who embodies the spirit of the past while remaining resolutely current. She began crafting her signature sound while performing in Austin's local club circuit for years before releasing her debut album. Today you'll find her performing on stages across the United States, Europe, and Asia. She joins Dr. Alan Campbell this week to talk about her life, her music, and what led her to follow this path. https://katedmonson.com

    The Crappy Childhood Fairy: Anna Runkle on CPTSD

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2023 53:19


    By the time she was in her 20s, Anna Runkle was struggling with anxiety, depression, and chronic pain that seemed to have no cause. Therapist after therapist failed to diagnose what she was experiencing - until one day in 1994, everything clicked for her. Now, she teaches her innovative therapeutic techniques to others. She is known as the Crappy Childhood Fairy, and her techniques have helped thousands heal from childhood trauma. But coach and YouTube sensation Runkle is quick to point out that she is not a doctor or therapist - instead, she is someone who lived out a traumatic childhood and spent years discovering how to heal from Childhood PTSD. This week on Watching America, she talks with Dr. Alan Campbell about the symptoms of early trauma and strategies to find healing. https://crappychildhoodfairy.com

    Unveiling the Joys of Solitude: Amy Key's Journey

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 25, 2023 53:19


    We enter a world where romantic love takes a backseat, and the vibrant hues of independence and self-discovery shine through. Using Joni Mitchell's iconic album, "Blue," as her guide, author Amy Key takes us on a poetic journey through the uncharted territories of a life lived on one's own terms in her memoir "Arrangements in Blue." Growing up, the acclaimed poet dreamed of a life intertwined with romance, but fate had other plans. Now, in her forties, she has fearlessly embraced the absence of romantic love and embarked on a quest to uncover the hidden joys of solitude. She talks with Dr. Alan Campbell about the beauty of independence, the power of self-connection, and the boundless potential of self-friendship. https://amyvkey.com

    Katy Kelleher: 'The Ugly History of Beautiful Things'

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2023 53:19


    Crushed beetle shells in our lipstick? Burnt cow bones baked into our dishware? This week, we are uncovering the hidden stories behind the beautiful objects that surround us. Katy Kelleher has spent much of her life chasing beauty. As a child, she uprooted handfuls of purple, fragrant little flowers from the earth, plucked iridescent seashells from the beach, and dug for turquoise stones in her backyard. As a teenager she applied glittery shimmer to her eyelids after religiously dabbing on her signature scent of orange blossoms and jasmine. And as an adult, she coveted gleaming marble countertops and delicate porcelain to beautify her home. This obsession with beauty led her to become a home, garden, and design writer. In researching these objects, Katy concluded that most of us are blind to the true cost of our desires. Because whenever you find something unbearably beautiful, look closer, and you'll inevitably find a shadow of decay lurking underneath.

    Stephen M.R. Covey: The Importance of Trust

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2023 53:19


    Do you trust your coworkers and company leaders? Leadership expert Stephen M. R. Covey says trust is the most critical component of a successful organization. Covey is a trust expert, an executive thought leader, and a #1 bestselling author. Two of his recent books on the topic of trust include “The Speed of Trust: The One Thing That Changes Everything” and “Trust and Inspire: How Truly Great Leaders Unleash Greatness in Others.” He is the former CEO of Covey Leadership Center, which, under his stewardship, became the largest leadership development company in the world. Stephen led the strategy that propelled his father's book, Dr. Stephen R. Covey's “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” to become one of the two most influential business books of the 20th Century, according to CEO Magazine. A renowned business consultant and sought-after speaker, Stephen believes developing trust is key to being a successful leader and creating a successful organization. He joins Dr. Alan Campbell this week to dissect the concept of trust and explore ways to increase it in our relationships.

    Sergio Mendes: Six Decades of Joy From Music

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2023 53:19


    From his pioneering contributions to bossa nova to the era-defining Latin-pop sound of his iconic group Brasil '66, Brazilian artist Sergio Mendes exploded onto the American music scene in the 1960s. He quickly produced many hit songs which earned him spots on some of the most popular television programs of the time, and he was invited by Presidents Nixon and Reagan to perform at the White House. He has recorded more than 35 albums, many of which went gold or platinum. He's also a three-time Grammy® Award winner and an Oscar®-nominated songwriter. Throughout his six-decade career, he has seen a lot of innovations, but the one thing that he says has never changed is the joy that music brings him. He joins Dr. Alan Campbell on Watching America to discuss his remarkable career. https://www.sergiomendesmusic.com

    From Memory to Manuscript: Ruta Sepetys Explores How To Unlock The Stories Within You

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2023 53:19


    Born as the daughter of a Lithuanian refugee, best-selling author Ruta Sepetys has harnessed the power of story to highlight the lives of those who would otherwise become lost in the cracks of history. Her impact goes far beyond the pages of her novels. She was honored by the President of Lithuania for her contributions to education and memory preservation. And she has received her own commemorative postage stamp. She says she is extremely proud of her Baltic heritage, even if that means she has a name no one can pronounce. (Incidentally, it rhymes with spaghettis.) Though she is best known for historical novels, after numerous requests from readers about how one would go about recording their own history, she has turned her pen to non-fiction. Her new book: "You: the Story: - A Writer's Guide to Craft Through Memory" provides aspiring writers with a roadmap to crafting compelling stories by encouraging them to look inward and excavate their own memories. This week on Watching America, she joins host Dr. Alan Campbell to explore the power of history, story, and self-reflection. https://rutasepetys.com

    Karen Grassle: Bright Lights, Prairie Dust

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2023 53:19


    Fans may know her best for her portrayal of “Ma” on the popular television series Little House on the Prairie, but Karen Grassle has also had a far-reaching career in theater and film as well. In her new memoir, "Bright Lights, Prairie Dust: Reflections on Life, Loss, and Love from Little House's Ma," she recounts with surprising candor and humor how she faced challenges off-screen, including a battle with alcoholism, and how she found her way to the other side. She joins us this week to discuss her extraordinary journey. https://karengrassle.net

    A Conversation With Jazz Icon Herb Alpert

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2023 53:19


    At the age of eight, Herb Alpert was drawn to the trumpet in a music appreciation class in his elementary school. He went on to master the instrument, earning numerous awards along the way. He recorded his first hit song, "The Lonely Bull" in 1962. Since then, he has earned five #1 hits, 9 GRAMMY® Awards, 15 Gold albums, 14 Platinum albums and he has sold over 72 million records. He also started one of the most successful independent record labels in music history, A & M Records. He has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and named as one of the Grammy Museum's ”Icons of the Music Industry” He joins us this week on Watching America to discuss his extraordinary career. https://herbalpert.com

    Jaime Green: The Possibility of Life

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2023 53:19


    Could there be life beyond our planet? It's a question that has captivated our imaginations for centuries, and one that scientists continue to explore today. In a new book, acclaimed science journalist Jaime Green offers a spellbinding exploration of alien life and the cosmos. Incorporating expert interviews, cutting-edge astronomy research, philosophical inquiry, and pop culture touchstones, she explores our evolving conception of the cosmos to ask an even deeper question: What does it mean to be human? Her thought-provoking insights will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about the universe and our place within it.

    Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt: 'Wake Up With Purpose'

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 30, 2023 53:19


    Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt took the world by storm as the chaplain for the 2018 Loyola Chicago Final Four men's basketball team. And last year she celebrated her 103rd birthday! Sister Jean is a religious sister of the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. She has spent her entire adult life working as a teacher, administrator, and volunteer -- first at elementary and grade schools in Chicago and Los Angeles, and later at Mundelein College and Loyola University. In 1994, 75-year-old Sister Jean was ready to retire from Loyola. But once again, she was called—this time to take on a role helping student athletes keep up their grades so they could maintain their eligibility to play. That evolved into a position as official team chaplain for the men's basketball team, with her pre-game prayers and advice to players becoming a critical part of the team's success. This week on Watching America, she speaks with host Dr. Alan Campbell about her new book “Wake Up With Purpose!: What I've Learned in My First Hundred Years.”

    Carl Sferrazza Anthony Discusses 'Camera Girl: The Coming of Age of Jackie Bouvier Kennedy'

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2023 53:19


    She is perhaps one of the world's most iconic figures. Jacqueline Kennedy captivated the nation and the rest of the world with her intelligence, beauty, and grace. But who was she before she became a household name? From her adventures abroad in Paris to her groundbreaking career as a writer and photographer in Washington, DC., join us for a journey into the life of a remarkable woman on Watching America. Carl Sferrazza Anthony is a writer, screenwriter, and journalist; an expert on Presidents, First ladies, and their families; and the author of over a dozen works of history and biography. He's conducted interviews with Presidents and their wives, wrote speeches for Nancy Reagan, and penned the introduction to one of Hillary Clinton's books. His newest work, "Camera Girl: The Coming of Age of Jackie Bouvier Kennedy," unveils the untold story of a headstrong, single young woman trying to figure out who she wanted to become.

    Crafting the Fantastic: A Conversation With Bruce McAllister

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2023 53:19


    Dive into the mesmerizing mind of acclaimed science fiction author Bruce McAllister. McAllister's first story, “The Faces Outside,” was published to acclaim when he was 16, earning him the label “science fiction prodigy.” Since then he has spent five decades venturing into the darkest realms of fantasy. His other books include "Kin," "Dream Baby," and "The Village Sang to the Sea: A Memoir of Magic." When he isn't writing fiction and poetry, he serves as a writing coach to new and established writers of all kinds of fiction, nonfiction, screenwriting, and does work as a publishing consultant. On this episode, he joins us to discuss his latest collection of short stories in a conversation that spans everything from the craft of writing and AI to the Vietnam War and Scientology.

    Patti McCracken Uncovers ‘History's Most Astonishing Murder Ring'

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2023 53:19


    It is a story that reads like one of today's popular fiction crime novels — a 1920s village midwife known as “Auntie Suzy” had a knack for murder. And many of the women in her village were quick to adopt her murderous methods. And their dark secret remained undetected for more than 15 years. In her book “The Angel Makers: Arsenic, A Midwife, and Modern History's Most Astonishing Murder Ring,” award-winning journalist Patti McCracken has pieced together the lives of Auntie Suzy, her wide network of killers, the unsuspecting victims, and the villagers who witnessed it all. She joins host Dr. Alan Campbell to discuss the book, her research, and why she was drawn to this project that took her 14-years to write. https://pattimccracken.com

    Robots Among Us: A Conversation With Dr. Dennis Hong

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2023 53:19


    What was once the stuff of science fiction has become reality. Robots are being used today for everything from fixing automobiles to exploring space, and they are increasingly becoming more human-like. Well-known roboticist Dr. Dennis Hong is the inventor of a number of cutting edge robots including those that can walk, climb, dance, and even play soccer. He also invented the world's first car that can be driven by the blind. How will this technology change our world? On this week's episode of Watching America, host Dr. Alan Cambell speaks with Hong about the possibilities and the next evolution in robotics engineering. https://www.romela.org/

    Feasting on Stoic Wisdom: David Fideler Reveals Insights from ‘Breakfast with Seneca'

    Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2023 53:19


    Ancient stoic philosopher Seneca provided time-tested wisdom in his day. Does any of it still apply? Author and speaker David Fideler says it does - and it can help us foster true contentment. Ancient philosophy meets modern relevance as Dr. Alan Campbell speaks with Fideler about his book, “Breakfast with Seneca: A Stoic Guide to the Art of Living.“ Fideler believes these ancient principles can equip you with the tools to face life's challenges head-on. In this intriguing conversation, we explore the art of distinguishing between what you can and cannot control, and embracing a mindset that fosters true contentment. Discover how stoicism's core principles of resilience, self-control and mindfulness can transform your life and help you navigate adversity with grace. https://davidfideler.com

    More to Life: A Conversation With Os Guinness

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2023 53:19


    Author and prominent social critic Os Guinness believes there are moments in our lives that prompt us to search for a deeper meaning. Sociologist Peter Berger described these as "signals of transcendence" that awaken us to unseen realities. How do we find them? And what would happen if we were to follow where they lead? This week on Watching America, Dr. Alan Campbell explores this idea with Os as they discuss his new book, "Signals of Transcendence: Listening to the Promptings of Life." https://osguinness.com

    Richard Sterban: From Elvis to Elvira

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2023 53:19


    He went from a background singer for Elvis to singing center stage with one of the most well-known quartets in music history. Richard Sterban, bass singer for the Oak Ridge Boys, recently celebrated 50 years with the iconic group, and he has published a book about his journey, “From Elvis to Elvira: My Life On Stage.“ Dr. Alan Campbell hears about his early days with Elvis, learns about his love of fine wine and sailing, and enjoys some little-known stories from his time on the road. In this endearing and intimate conversation, Sterban shares the original inspiration behind the hit song “Elvira” — spoiler: it wasn't a woman. And he discusses which well-known singer encouraged the group to stick it out when they were questioning their future in the industry. https://richardsterban.com

    Holly Harris: Relentless Survivor

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2023 53:19


    Human trafficking, gangs, drugs — Holly Harris never expected these things to become a part of her life. But at just 19 years old, her choices led her to a prison sentence and to the realization that something had to change. Now she hopes her experiences can help others on a similar path. On this week's episode of Watching America, Harris discusses her book “Relentless Survivor” with host Dr. Alan Campbell. She shares about her journey and how she found her way out of this dangerous lifestyle. https://www.authorhollyharris.com

    Sally Harris: Parenting Defiant Adult Children

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2023 53:19


    When her daughter's life spiraled out of control, Sally Harris found her own life in a tailspin. Her daughter had been traveling down a self-destructive path since her teen years. After heavily using drugs and alcohol, her daughter became a victim of sex trafficking. There were times Sally didn't know where she was or if she was safe. The worried mom's methods of coping led to Sally's own addiction and a struggle with depression and anxiety. In this episode of Watching America, she speaks with host Dr. Alan Campbell about how a health scare made her realize things had to change. Now, she is on a mission to help other mothers of defiant adult children learn strategies to overcome anxiety and fear, and to help them regain their own lives in the process. https://www.sally-harris.com

    Brad Buchanan On Being A Chimera

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2023 53:19


    Few people have survived the nightmare of a stem cell transplant gone sideways. Poet and professor Brad Buchanan was diagnosed with a rare form of T-cell lymphoma in February 2015, and after chemotherapy and radiation treatments, underwent a stem cell transplant at the U.C. Davis Medical Center in 2016. The transplant entailed 129 days in the hospital, a significant though temporary loss of vision and a lengthy recovery period at home. During this time, he experienced yet another medical complication. After participating in a clinical trial at Memorial Sloan Kettering, he was declared cancer-free in early 2017, and is currently still in remission. However, his acute graft-versus-host disease has become a chronic illness, and he was forced to retire early from Sacramento State. He now co-facilitates a writing workshop aimed at helping people dealing with issues of illness, disability and recovery. “Chimera,” his fourth book of poetry, explores his ordeal and his amazing recovery. In this week's episode of Watching America, he speaks with Dr. Alan Campbell about his journey. https://www.bradthechimera.com.

    Hollywood, Teach Us To Pray

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2023 53:19


    A new documentary by local university professors examines the role of prayer in movies. From devout religious ritual to irreverent monologues played for comedy, what do these prayers say about us and about American culture? This week on Watching America we hear from Dr. Terry Lindvall, a professor at Virginia Wesleyan University. He is one of the filmmakers of the new film "Hollywood, Teach Us To Pray." He discusses the role of prayer in movies through the ages. “With events like the recent one which involved many rallying around NFL player Damar Hamlin and actually praying on ESPN, we realize the centrality of our need to talk to and hear from God.” https://hollywoodteachustopray.com

    Music of the Beatles with Tom Payne

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2023 53:19


    March marks the 60th anniversary of the release of the Beatles' debut studio album “Please Please Me,” and die-hard fans remember where they were when they heard their first Beatles' song. That's the case for William & Mary Professor of Music and resident Beatles expert Tom Payne. In a course he has taught for many years, “Music of the Beatles,” Payne examines what makes the group's music so unique and explores how one band's music can still be influencing the works of today. This week on Watching America, he joins host and music enthusiast Dr. Alan Campbell to discuss songs from the Beatles' initial album as well as Payne's college course in which he tries to pass on the significance of the band's work.

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