Podcast appearances and mentions of Tony Ortiz

A Grosse Pointe teen tells the judge is a changed person as he's sentenced for vehicular manslaughterer in the death of his friend. That's our top story as WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill run down the local news headlines for your Friday afternoon in Metro Detroit. (Photo: Getty Images)

With critical Medicaid funding on the line, healthcare and community leaders in Oakland County hear directly from those affected by what proposed cuts could mean for every resident of the state. WWJ's Tracey McCaskill and Tony Ortiz have top news stories. (Photo: Getty Images)

Another case of biological materials being smuggled to a lab at the University of Michigan. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have top news stories. (Photo: Getty Images)

Former Husker LB Tony OrtizAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

With one man already in custody, authorities in Oakland County are looking for another suspect accused of planning a school shooting at a high school graduation. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have today's top news stories. (Photo Credit: Darrylin Horne, WWJ).

House Republicans have taken legal action against Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have top news stories. (Photo: © Sarahbeth Maney / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)

A Warren man arraigned on Second Degree Murder in connection with a deadly stabbing at a local home. WWJ's Tony Ortiz has the top news stories. (Photo: Macomb Co. Prosecutor)

Two Chinese nationals have been charged for allegedly smuggling a dangerous biological pathogen into the U-S as part of their work at a University of Michigan laboratory. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have the top news stories. (Photo: Getty Images)

The engines are revving in Downtown Detroit, with the 2025 Detroit Grand Prix underway. WWJ's Darrylin Horne spoke with fans, and our Tony Ortiz talked with the police chief who says every single officer in the department is will be working to make sure Detroiters and visitors are safe. (Photo: Brian Larsen/WWJ)

A disturbing discovery in Macomb County, where a human body was found under a bridge in the Clinton River. That's our top story this Thursday afternoon as WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill run down the local headlines from across Metro Detroit. (WWJ Photo)

President Donald Trump is considering pardons for two men convicted of plotting to kidnap Governor Whitmer back during the pandemic. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have top news stories.

Detroit Police have announced they gave out multiple citations for drag racing and spectating over the holiday weekend, and there could be much more to come this summer. That's our top story as WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill run down the local headlines for your Tuesday afternoon. (Photo: Getty Images)

Welcome to Episode 283 of the Spun Today podcast—the only podcast anchored in writing, but unlimited in scope. I'm your host, Tony Ortiz, and in this deeply personal and heartfelt episode, I invite you to join me as I honor the memory of my dear friend and Spun Today alumni, Pablo Mosquera Jr., who tragically passed away earlier this year.   This episode is a special re-release of one of my favorite beachside conversations with Pablo, originally recorded on a traditional day off in Coney Island—a ritual we created to escape the grind, share stories, and reflect on life while soaking up the summer sun. It's an episode filled with laughter, nostalgia, and the kind of meaningful storytelling that makes the Spun Today podcast what it is.   Throughout this episode, I touch on everything from cherished friendship catchphrases and cycling marathons, to our first jobs and the profound impact travel can have on creativity and perspective. We reminisce about coming-of-age moments, family reunions, and the small rituals that inspire us.   As you listen, I hope you'll appreciate the raw emotion and candid storytelling as much as I did revisiting it. Whether you're tuning in as a writer looking for inspiration, or as someone seeking comfort in community, this episode is a reminder to cherish every moment, tell your stories, and put pen to paper while you still can.   So pull up a chair (or a spot on the sand), and get ready for an episode that's as much a tribute as it is a celebration of creative living. Rest in peace, Pablo—you are missed, and your story lives on through the words and memories we share.   Let's get into it.   The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing & Random Rants, but unlimited in scope.  Give it a whirl.    Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/ Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe   Links referenced in this episode:     Follow Pablo on Twitter: @pabs711 & Instagram: @pabs711   Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN (Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!) Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support   Check out my Books Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback & Hardcover are now available).   Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft.  I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/    Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: http://www.amazon.com//ref=as_sl_pc_tf_lc?&tag=sputod0c-20&camp=216797&creative=446321&linkCode=ur1&adid=104DDN7SG8A2HXW52TFB&&ref-refURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.spuntoday.com%2Fcontact%2F   Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10   Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, T-Shirts and more: https://viralstyle.com/store/spuntoday/tonyortiz   Music: https://www.purple-planet.com   Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com   Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/   Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk Listen on: iTunes | Spotify| Pocket Casts| YouTube | Website 

More than one million Michiganders are on the move this holiday weekend, with the vast majority of them traveling by car. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have top news stories.

Downtown Detroit is going to be jam packed with events this Memorial Day weekend. But with road closures and construction, parking may get a bit complicated. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have top news stories.

A 25-year-old Wayne man accused of stealing a truck and abandoning three kids that were in the backseat is being charged by the County Prosecutor's Office. WWJ's Tracey McCaskill and Tony Ortiz have this afternoon's top news stories.

A Southfield man is facing felony charges accused of assault and ethnic intimidation. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have the afternoon's top news stories.

A former teacher at George Washington Carver Academy in Highland Park has been charged with grooming and sexually assaulting a student for several years, between the ages of 10 and 12. 29-year-old Vincent Weaver is facing three counts of criminal sexual conduct and one count of indecent exposure. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have top news stories. (Photo: Highland Park PD)

Tonight on The Last Word: The Supreme Court blocks Trump's bid to resume deportations under The Alien Enemies Act of 1798. And the GOP defies Trump, striking down a bill advancing his agenda. Rep. Gwen Moore, Rick Stengel, Prof. Larry Glickman, and Tony Ortiz join Ali Velshi 

The latest numbers from the U.S. Census Bureau were released today and it shows that the City of Detroit is growing again! WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have the afternoon's top news stories. (Photo: Getty Images)

A Metro Detroit man -- and former member of the Michigan Army National Guard -- has been charged over an alleged plot to attack a U.S. military base in Warren. WWJ's Tracey McCaskill and Tony Ortiz have the afternoon's top news stories.

Ford is cutting about 350 software related jobs. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have top news stories.

A 16-year-old girl from Roseville is now charged with assault after allegedly stabbing a 15-year-old boy from Detroit on Saturday. WWJ's Tracey McCaskill and Tony Ortiz have top news stories.

A trend started on the social media app "Tik Tok" is being blamed for an incident this week at a local high school which has emergency responders concerned. WWJ's Tracey McCaskill and Tony Ortiz have top news stories.

A shooting on a Wayne County school bus sends one student to the hospital. According to Redford Township Police, it happened this afternoon outside Thurston High School. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have top news stories

Dozens of UAW workers rally in Warren calling on Stellantis to invest in American Jobs. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have top news stories.

The state Attorney General's office has dropped charges against pro-Palestinian protesters who were charged after setting up an encampment at the University of Michigan last Spring. Attorney General Dana Nessel says in a statement she stands by the charges, but the District Court judge hasn't decided if there is enough evidence to go to trial. WWJ's Tony Ortiz has top news stories.

Is Texas really as conservative as everyone thinks—or is it just really good at pretending? This episode of The Brian Nichols Show is going to rattle some cages. We're heading deep into the Lone Star State to unpack what's really happening behind the scenes of “red state” politics. From political half-measures to media silence on major scandals, this one's got all the spicy truth bombs the mainstream won't touch. If you think Texas is a conservative stronghold, buckle up. Studio Sponsor: Cardio Miracle - "Unlock the secret to a healthier heart, increased energy levels, and transform your cardiovascular fitness like never before.": https://www.briannicholsshow.com/heart We're joined by Tony Ortiz from Current Revolt, a media outlet that's not afraid to get dirty with the facts. Tony breaks down how Texas Republicans often fall short of their own messaging—and how the state's biggest problems stem from within their own party. It's a wake-up call for anyone who's been lulled into red state complacency. We also dive into why so many of these issues stay hidden from voters, thanks to media gatekeeping and voter apathy. Tony reveals why most voters never hear about the real drama, how incumbents play the long game to stay in power, and why the leftist media won't even touch GOP scandals when they actually have ammo. It's wild, revealing, and guaranteed to shift your perspective. Oh—and don't miss the scorching takedown of the “Texit” movement. Tony explains why secession isn't just a political dead-end, but a full-on grift, and he backs it up with real numbers, insider insight, and more than a little sarcasm. This is the kind of conversation that cuts through the political theater and delivers real clarity. Whether you're a diehard Texan, a political junkie, or just someone fed up with fake conservatives and media games, this episode gives you the raw, unfiltered breakdown. You won't look at red state politics—or the people behind them—the same way again. ❤️ Order Cardio Miracle (https://www.briannicholsshow.com/heart) with code TBNS at checkout for 15% off and take a step towards better heart health and overall well-being!

Charges have been announced in connection to the death and disappearance of 17-year-old London Thomas. WWJ's Tony Ortiz has the afternoon's top news stories. (Photo: Crime Stoppers)

A Downriver toddler suffered serious injuries after being mauled by a neighbor's dog this morning. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have the afternoon's top news stories. (Photo: Getty Images)

President Donald Trump is back in Metro Detroit today marking 100 days in office. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have top news stories.

Two people are now in custody after the body of a Detroit teen who had gone missing weeks ago has been found. Now, the teen's father is speaking out. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have top news stories.

A Detroit city councilmember has filed a lawsuit against the city clerk and elections commission for disqualifying her from the August primary ballot. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have top news stories. (Photo credit: Darrylin Horne)

Missing for more than a month -- a Wayne County teen has been found, and an older man she had been staying with is in custody. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have top news stories. (Handout photo)

A Wayne County teenager who was missing for more than a month has been found, and is safe, according to police. That's our top story as WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill run down the local news headlines for your Wednesday afternoon in Metro Detroit. (Photo: NCMEC)

A shelter in place order has been lifted in Roseville, where a LARGE fire erupted at a business in the area of 12 Mile and Hayes. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have top news stories.

A nine-day mourning period has been declared by The Vatican, which will include daily prayers and requiem masses. The Archdiocese of Detroit is holding a special mass tonight to honor Pope Francis, who has died at age 88. Here's WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill with your top local headlines. (Photo: A photo of the late Pope Francis sits on display at the altar of Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Detroit on Monday, April 21, 2025. © Ryan Garza / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed a measles outbreak in Montcalm County -- northeast of Grand Rapids. Montcalm County has confirmed three cases in total at this time. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have top news stories. (Photo: Getty Images)

An elderly Oakland County man is facing criminal charges after he was found with more than one-thousand pornographic photos. Oakland County Sheriff deputies arrested James Meloche of Clarkston yesterday an at Independence Township business. WWJ's Tracey McCaskill and Tony Ortiz have top news stories. (Photo credit: OCSO)

A mother accused of leaving her 3 children in a filthy Pontiac home for almost 5 years appeared back in court for charges connected to welfare fraud. Today, one of her family members is speaking exclusively to WWJ. Tracey McCaskill and Tony Ortiz have top news stories.

The St. Clair County Sheriff's Department arrested Amanda Maison,33, and her boyfriend Maurice Houle, 28, last Friday. Monday, Maison and Houle were arraigned in 72nd District Court on a charge of first degree murder related to the death of Matthew Maison who was found dead in his bed in Port Huron Township on February 18, 2018. WWJ's Tony Ortiz has your Monday afternoon news.

There have been no arrests in the case of a teenager with autism shot by a stranger after getting dropped off by an Uber in an unfamiliar Detroit neighborhood. We'll hear from his sister as WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill run down the top local headlines for your Friday afternoon. (WWJ Photo)

General Motors is expected to lay off hundreds of its Detroit workers, according to a report in Reuters. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have top news stories.

Michigan now has four confirmed cases of the measles. A resident of Montcalm County, northeast of Grand Rapids, recently contracted measles after traveling out of state. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have top news stories. Photo credit Getty Images

Several school board members in Oakland County met up to show their support for congressional members who are fighting on behalf of public school in the state of Michigan. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have top news stories. (Photo: Darrylin Horne/WWJ)

A local Congressman is the latest to announce a run for Governor. Republican Congressman John James says that he's running for job. WWJ's Tony Ortiz and Tracey McCaskill have top news stories.

Welcome to another episode of the Spun Today podcast! In this captivating session, host Tony Ortiz sits down with Amanda Lucas, a middle school ELA teacher with a rich tapestry of experiences in both education and writing. Amanda shares her journey from being an aspiring writer and journalist to embracing her role as an educator. As an insightful storyteller, she dives deep into the nuances of teaching different grade levels, from dealing with classroom management to confronting bullying. Amanda also opens up about the challenges of adjusting to digital teaching in a post-Covid world. As a co-host of the Che podcast, she shares her insights on how educators navigate the intricacies of teaching, while still finding room to nurture young minds creatively. Tune in to explore Amanda's unique experiences and discover more about her impactful journey in shaping and inspiring future generations.   The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing & Random Rants, but unlimited in scope.  Give it a whirl.    Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/ Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe   Links referenced in this episode:     I Need An Idea! (A Leli and Emmi Book) https://amzn.to/4hSvjYs   Check out Amanda's Podcast: Ch! Wherever you listen to podcasts. iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ch/id1443818572 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/3HLRAzQJiplVcsv68Ce0W0?si=YgEBWrKZSfeGK8nnA11dBw   Follow the Podcast on IG: @chcast   Follow Amanda on IG: @itzmeamandalee     Gotham Writers: https://www.writingclasses.com/   Parents Magazine: https://www.parents.com/parents-magazine/   Meredith Corporation: https://www.meredith.com/national-media/brands   Check out Leli's Magical Stitches: https://vimeo.com/80441330     Articles by Amanda: https://www.smilesforall.com/first-grade-first-love/ https://www.parents.com/baby/gear/sling/how-to-buy-a-backpack-carrier1/ https://www.parents.com/baby/gear/sling/14-baby-carriers/   Check out Elizabeth Acevedo's website: http://www.acevedowrites.com/     Some of the books referenced in this episode: I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Your-Perfect-Mexican-Daughter/dp/1524700517/ref=sr_1_1?crid=7SGY6YEGY648&dchild=1&keywords=i%27m+not+your+perfect+mexican+daughter&qid=1592881345&sprefix=i%27m+not+your+per%2Caps%2C155&sr=8-1   How Tia Lola Came to (Visit) Stay (The Tia Lola Stories): https://www.amazon.com/Lola-Came-Visit-Stay-Stories/dp/0440418704/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=tia+lola&qid=1592881392&sr=8-1     Fever 1793: https://www.amazon.com/Fever-1793-Laurie-Halse-Anderson/dp/0689848919/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=Fever+1793&qid=1592881188&sr=8-1   Night: https://www.amazon.com/Night-Elie-Wiesel/dp/0374500010/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1CF64KYF0BMZM&dchild=1&keywords=night+by+elie+wiesel&qid=1592883611&sprefix=night+by+%2Caps%2C157&sr=8-1   Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN (Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!)   Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support   Check out my Books Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback & Hardcover are now available).   Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft.  I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/    Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: http://www.amazon.com//ref=as_sl_pc_tf_lc?&tag=sputod0c-20&camp=216797&creative=446321&linkCode=ur1&adid=104DDN7SG8A2HXW52TFB&&ref-refURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.spuntoday.com%2Fcontact%2F   Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10   Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, T-Shirts and more: https://viralstyle.com/store/spuntoday/tonyortiz   Music: https://www.purple-planet.com   Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com   Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/   Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk   Listen on: iTunes | Spotify| Pocket Casts| YouTube | Website 

Today, we've got another action-packed episode of "Prime Time with Alex Stein," and we will be getting some updates on the trans activist who was arrested after attacking Jimmy and a few Turning Point activists. Yella Beezy, a Dallas rapper, was arrested, and Alex went to try to get him bailed out of jail. He'll share some details on that story. Tony Ortiz of Current Revolt has been reporting on paid influencer campaigns by Influenceable, so he'll give us some insight into that story. We're joined in studio by Jim Pfaff, president of the Conservative Caucus, Tony Ortiz, and impressionist Blake Giunta. Sponsors: PureHealth Just go to PureHealthResearch.com and use coupon code ALEX at checkout. With its 365-day money-back guarantee, there's zero risk in trying something new. So why wait? Head over to PureHealthResearch.com now, explore the 45 amazing supplements, and save 35% before this deal ends with coupon code ALEX. Don't miss this chance to start the year feeling your best!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to the Spun Today Podcast with your host, Tony Ortiz. In this special throwback episode, we dive into Episode 281, where Tony revisits one of his earlier works, a riveting short story titled "Ball and Chain." Originally recorded as an audiobook and first shared in Episode 14, this tale explores the unique perspective of a female serial killer, a creative twist inspired by a writing exercise from Stephen King's "On Writing." In this re-released version, Tony adds new context and reflections on the story's evolution, inviting listeners to compare it to the polished version found in his short story collection, "Melted Cold." Join Tony as he shares insights into the writing process, the challenges of character creation, and the art of storytelling. Plus, don't miss the chance to support the podcast and grab some cool Spun Today merch to keep the creative vibes flowing. Tune in and embark on a journey through creativity and imagination!   This is the Audio Book version of the Short Story Ball & Chain by Tony Ortiz http://www.spuntoday.com/shortstories/ballchain *Original Release Date: March 12th, 2015*    The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing & Random Rants, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl. Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/ Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe   Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spuntoday   Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home  Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe      Links referenced in this episode:     Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN (Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!)   Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support   Check out my Books Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback & Hardcover are now available).   Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft.  I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/    Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: http://www.amazon.com//ref=as_sl_pc_tf_lc?&tag=sputod0c-20&camp=216797&creative=446321&linkCode=ur1&adid=104DDN7SG8A2HXW52TFB&&ref-refURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.spuntoday.com%2Fcontact%2F   Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10   Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, T-Shirts and more: https://viralstyle.com/store/spuntoday/tonyortiz   Music: https://www.purple-planet.com   Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com   Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/   Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk   Listen on: iTunes | Spotify| Pocket Casts| YouTube | Website 

Tim, Phil, & Brett are joined by Tony Ortiz to discuss Trump sanctioning South Africa over their discrimination against white people, Trump revoking Biden's security clearance, and DOGE dismantling the headquarters of USAID. Hosts: Tim @Timcast (everywhere) Phil @PhilThatRemains (X) Brett @PopCultureCrisis (YouTube) Serge @SergeDotCom (everywhere) Guest: Tony Ortiz @CurrentRevolt (X, Insta, YouTube) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices