Spotlight Conversations

Visiting Los Angeles with the guy who knows audio technology inside and out - Don Baarns, a leading expert in voice recording and studio production. Owner of the renowned voiceover courses at VOJumpStart (where both veteran and newbie voiceover talent can learn valuable skills about recording), Don shares what you really need to know about your home studio - before recording!  We talk about Punch and Roll (and how mastering this skill makes editing fast and easy); life before Punch and Roll (wait, there was a time??!); his voice recording and production courses (available at Red Baarns Audio); a backstory about 'The Umm Syndrome' (it's a thing - tune in); body language in front of the mic; the growing demand for 'proofers'; how to sound like you're NOT recording a book and more. The big takeaway is how to get more audio recordings done in less time - and of course we all could use a lesson in that! Bring in your love of audio and listen in.

About the Spotlight Conversations podcast:

Tune in as I invite friends inside my cozy linoleum free recording studio to talk about all things media - radio, television, music, film, voiceovers, audiobooks, publishing - if guests know media, we're talkin'! Unscripted and nearly always entertaining, each guest gets real about their careers in the entertainment biz; from where they started to how it's going. Join us in my swanky studio where drinks are always on ice; music + media are the conversation starters. New episodes every other Tuesday.

Social media links, website and more here
Follow and subscribe to my podcast here

A very special thank you to friends who helped bring the Spotlight Conversations podcast together:
Booth Announcer: Joe Szymanski ('Joe The Voice Guy')
Theme Song Composer: Mark Sparrow, SongBird Studios

Dwight Douglas has worked in radio, consulted radio, brought software to radio (Selector anyone?) and now he's written a book about the radio business with 'True Radio Confessions - Sex, Drugs & Rock'n Roll' (available now on Amazon). It's the possibly true (but all names have been changed) fictional story of DJ Sonny Joe McPherson, who takes on a fifty year broadcasting journey filled with - you guessed it - sex, drugs and rock and roll. Dwight talks about his new novel (which by the way has a glossary of terms to help out the non-radio people understand what drives the radio industry), but also discusses his long standing gig with media executive Lee Abrams; a (true) story involving ironing and rocker Bob Seger; why characters like Forrest Gump matter, plus Dwight's take on lessons learned from the deregulation of radio. Whether you're a radio pro or interested in the backstory of radio, join us in the studio!

About the Spotlight Conversations podcast:

Tune in as I invite friends inside my cozy linoleum free recording studio to talk about all things media - radio, television, music, film, voiceovers, audiobooks, publishing - if guests know media, we're talkin'! Unscripted and nearly always entertaining, each guest gets real about their careers in the entertainment biz; from where they started to how it's going. Join us in my swanky studio where drinks are always on ice; music + media are the conversation starters. New episodes every other Tuesday.

Social media links, website and more here
Follow and subscribe to my podcast here

A very special thank you to friends who helped bring the Spotlight Conversations podcast together:
Booth Announcer: Joe Szymanski ('Joe The Voice Guy')
Theme Song Composer: Mark Sparrow, SongBird Studios

In the studio with author Bob Mann, a professor who holds the esteemed Manship Chair in Journalism at the Manship School of Mass Communication at Louisiana State University (LSU), talking about his new book 'Backrooms And Bayous: My Life in Louisiana Politics' - a memoir about his long career in Louisiana politics and everything he learned along the way. Candid and introspective, Bob discusses both journalism, history and politics, including his work on Capitol Hill for Senators Russell B. Long and John Breaux; the changing political landscape; his look at Louisiana history (and the future for The Bayou State); plus the reason why he still enjoys putting in hours of archival research for each of his books - and there are many! Check out his new autobiography at Backrooms And Bayous and join us!

About the Spotlight Conversations podcast:

Tune in as I invite friends inside my cozy linoleum free recording studio to talk about all things media - radio, television, music, film, voiceovers, audiobooks, publishing - if guests know media, we're talkin'! Unscripted and nearly always entertaining, each guest gets real about their careers in the entertainment biz; from where they started to how it's going. Join us in my swanky studio where drinks are always on ice; music + media are the conversation starters. New episodes every other Tuesday.

Social media links, website and more here
Follow and subscribe to my podcast here

A very special thank you to friends who helped bring the Spotlight Conversations podcast together:
Booth Announcer: Joe Szymanski ('Joe The Voice Guy')
Theme Song Composer: Mark Sparrow, SongBird Studios

Singer-songwriter Parthenon Huxley is in the studio talking about music, songwriting, journalism and more, including his early work with North Carolina music legends Mitch Easter, Jamie Hoover and Don Dixon; working with 'The Blazers' and his own 'Ridiculous Band'; to leaving the Chapel Hill area to make the move to New York and LA, eventually signing with MCA and Columbia Records (plus gigs with Mick Jones of Foreigner and Robert Lamm of Chicago). Currently working on his memoir with a very catchy title (listen to the podcast!) we also  talk about teaming up and touring along with a cool symphonic rock band called 'The Orchestra starring ELO Former Members' with Electric Light Orchestra musicians Bev Bevan, Kelly Groucutt, Mik Kaminski and Lou Clark (as well as Eric Troyer). Join us!

About the Spotlight Conversations podcast:

Tune in as I invite friends inside my cozy linoleum free recording studio to talk about all things media - radio, television, music, film, voiceovers, audiobooks, publishing - if guests know media, we're talkin'! Unscripted and nearly always entertaining, each guest gets real about their careers in the entertainment biz; from where they started to how it's going. Join us in my swanky studio where drinks are always on ice; music + media are the conversation starters. New episodes every other Tuesday.

Social media links, website and more here
Follow and subscribe to my podcast here

A very special thank you to friends who helped bring the Spotlight Conversations podcast together:
Booth Announcer: Joe Szymanski ('Joe The Voice Guy')
Theme Song Composer: Mark Sparrow, SongBird Studios

In Hollywood today with Troy Carlton, who talks about his new film 'Birdies The Movie', shot entirely in North Carolina (and now available on Amazon Prime). The Raleigh native sits down in the studio and talks of how his independent movie about "a washed up golf phenom who gets hired as the pro at a decaying country club where catching a buzz is par for the course" really began with his YouTube channel 'Golf Jokes from Tight Lies';  working with comedian Ryan O'Flanagan and actor Nate Panning; his company Crane House Film and more. We also discuss a special screening in June for his movie at the famous Rialto Theatre in Raleigh! So bring along your popcorn, your cleated golf shoes - okay, maybe leave those at home - and listen to a unique back story from one talented director who made a movie destined to be a golf movie classic! 

About the Spotlight Conversations podcast:

Tune in as I invite friends inside my cozy linoleum free recording studio to talk about all things media - radio, television, music, film, voiceovers, audiobooks, publishing - if guests know media, we're talkin'! Unscripted and nearly always entertaining, each guest gets real about their careers in the entertainment biz; from where they started to how it's going. Join us in my swanky studio where drinks are always on ice; music + media are the conversation starters. New episodes every other Tuesday.

Social media links, website and more here
Follow and subscribe to my podcast here

A very special thank you to friends who helped bring the Spotlight Conversations podcast together:
Booth Announcer: Joe Szymanski ('Joe The Voice Guy')
Theme Song Composer: Mark Sparrow, SongBird Studios

In the studio with award winning Alysson Bourque, author of the Alycat Series of children's books. The series has gained loyal followers both in the United States (where her books were included in the Swag Bags at the Oscars AND the Grammy's!) and an equally strong following in the United Kingdom, with the support of Sarah Ferguson, The Duchess of York, who chose Alysson's book series to be a part of the Duchess's 'Storytime with Fergie and Friends' on YouTube. This busy mom (inspired by her children to write) describes a writing journey from elementary school teacher to law school grad, to her work as Assistant Attorney General for the state of Louisiana, combined with hours of hard work and a true passion for writing. Her current book 'Alycat And The CattyWampus Wednesday" (available now on Amazon) delights young audiences with the story of a cat named AlyCat who solves problems '"with a big heart and a creative imagination"'.  We also discuss the story behind Alysson's book marketing company 'Forward Publicity'. It's a writing journey you don't want to miss. Join us!

Check out the AlyCat Series website for more about how you can help literacy in your community!

About the Spotlight Conversations podcast:

Tune in as I invite friends inside my cozy linoleum free recording studio to talk about all things media - radio, television, music, film, voiceovers, audiobooks, publishing - if guests know media, we're talkin'! Unscripted and nearly always entertaining, each guest gets real about their careers in the entertainment biz; from where they started to how it's going. Join us in my swanky studio where drinks are always on ice; music + media are the conversation starters. New episodes every other Tuesday.

Social media links, website and more here
Follow and subscribe to my podcast here

A very special thank you to friends who helped bring the Spotlight Conversations podcast together:
Booth Announcer: Joe Szymanski ('Joe The Voice Guy')
Theme Song Composer: Mark Sparrow, SongBird Studios

Offering sage advice with real life stories on transitioning, former MIX 101.5 FM (Raleigh, North Carolina) morning guy (now author) Bill Jordan discusses his book "Embrace the Boom" which in his words '"empowers, encourages and inspires my fellow members of the Baby Boomer generation"' (and read the special introduction from Duke Men's Basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski). We then talk about everything from radio (40 years as a morning show host) to his current voiceover career; the art of social media (and how it relates to radio); aging gracefully; living on less; minimalism, and his work with the Children's Miracle Network. Tune in to this veteran radio broadcaster who serves up an entertaining episode of just how to embrace where you are and own it. 

About the Spotlight Conversations podcast:

Tune in as I invite friends inside my cozy linoleum free recording studio to talk about all things media - radio, television, music, film, voiceovers, audiobooks, publishing - if guests know media, we're talkin'! Unscripted and nearly always entertaining, each guest gets real about their careers in the entertainment biz; from where they started to how it's going. Join us in my swanky studio where drinks are always on ice; music + media are the conversation starters. New episodes every other Tuesday.

Social media links, website and more here
Follow and subscribe to my podcast here

A very special thank you to friends who helped bring the Spotlight Conversations podcast together:
Booth Announcer: Joe Szymanski ('Joe The Voice Guy')
Theme Song Composer: Mark Sparrow, SongBird Studios

It's no easy feat becoming a bestselling author, but in today's episode, Elizabeth Spann Craig proves that with determination anything is possible. We discuss her new book - "A Notion to Murder", part of her Southern Quilting Mystery series (available now on Amazon) along with  other novels including "A Dash of Murder" (from the Myrtle Clover Mystery series) and "Frictional Characters" from the Village Library series. A lifelong fan of mystery books (yup, think Nancy Drew and Hardy Boys!) this South Carolina native has read just about every mystery novel she could get her hands on from a very early age, and soon realized becoming a writer was the career for her. Over 40 books later, the Penguin-Random House and Midnight Ink author (who has also published many of her books independently) discusses the truth about marketing a book, new writer challenges, dealing with rejection and learning how to 'stick with it' in a highly competitive industry. Bring along a cuppa and join us! 

About the Spotlight Conversations podcast:

Tune in as I invite friends inside my cozy linoleum free recording studio to talk about all things media - radio, television, music, film, voiceovers, audiobooks, publishing - if guests know media, we're talkin'! Unscripted and nearly always entertaining, each guest gets real about their careers in the entertainment biz; from where they started to how it's going. Join us in my swanky studio where drinks are always on ice; music + media are the conversation starters. New episodes every other Tuesday.

Social media links, website and more here
Follow and subscribe to my podcast here

A very special thank you to friends who helped bring the Spotlight Conversations podcast together:
Booth Announcer: Joe Szymanski ('Joe The Voice Guy')
Theme Song Composer: Mark Sparrow, SongBird Studios

For many in the voiceover world, Bob Souer is known as 'The Second Nicest Guy in Voiceover", and after spending time at his studio in Pittsburgh, I finally found the true story of how he got that brand started (with a shout out to fellow voice pro and marketing guru Doug Turkel) Listen in on how Bob's start in radio, combined with a childhood love of books and performance, has paved the way to a very successful business, beginning with his first audiobook project: narrating the Bible for Thomas Nelson, a. world leading publisher and provider of Christian content.  With an honest approach to the business of voiceovers and audiobook narration, Bob gives advice on everything from building relationships within the voice industry, why working alongside directors and editors on audiobooks is so important, to ways to keep your business growing and more. The Audie Award and Earphones Award winning performer also talks about his special upcoming project - narrating a new translation of the Bible (published by The Bible Hub). It's a full circle story from a seasoned voice pro you don't want to miss!

About the Spotlight Conversations podcast:

Tune in as I invite friends inside my cozy linoleum free recording studio to talk about all things media - radio, television, music, film, voiceovers, audiobooks, publishing - if guests know media, we're talkin'! Unscripted and nearly always entertaining, each guest gets real about their careers in the entertainment biz; from where they started to how it's going. Join us in my swanky studio where drinks are always on ice; music + media are the conversation starters. New episodes every other Tuesday.

Social media links, website and more here
Follow and subscribe to my podcast here

A very special thank you to friends who helped bring the Spotlight Conversations podcast together:
Booth Announcer: Joe Szymanski ('Joe The Voice Guy')
Theme Song Composer: Mark Sparrow, SongBird Studios

Amanda Lamb, veteran reporter for award winning NBC television station WRAL in Raleigh, NC stops by the studio to talk about her new book "No Wake Zone", one of many books (in different genres) she's written while covering hard news for the station.  Here's an interview that gives an honest look at journalism, including the business of writing books and writing blogs (and her contribution to WRAL's parenting blog "Go Ask Mom". ) Her reputation as a go-to reporter (including regular appearances on crime shows on CNN, truTV, Biography and the Oxygen network) plus a solid work ethic carries over to her fiction writing as well, with eight books written so far and counting! Listen is as she describes her journey of self publishing, traditional publishing, her take on the future of audiobooks and more. Join us!

About the Spotlight Conversations podcast:

Tune in as I invite friends inside my cozy linoleum free recording studio to talk about all things media - radio, television, music, film, voiceovers, audiobooks, publishing - if guests know media, we're talkin'! Unscripted and nearly always entertaining, each guest gets real about their careers in the entertainment biz; from where they started to how it's going. Join us in my swanky studio where drinks are always on ice; music + media are the conversation starters. New episodes every other Tuesday.

Social media links, website and more here
Follow and subscribe to my podcast here

A very special thank you to friends who helped bring the Spotlight Conversations podcast together:
Booth Announcer: Joe Szymanski ('Joe The Voice Guy')
Theme Song Composer: Mark Sparrow, SongBird Studios

My guest today is audiobook narrator Todd Waites, who explains what really happens in the studio when recording an audiobook. And he's here to say - it's not that easy! Sure, it seems like so at first, but Todd takes us on a step by step audiobook process - from the first audition to final chapter recording - where you finally understand the time and energy it takes to make a successful audiobook. This busy Texas narrator whose credits include After the Apocalypse  (a zombie apocalypse thriller) by Warren Hately and Prison Days (a true crime biography) by Simon King, explains all the important details in producing audiobooks (many which happen before stepping into the studio); understanding the differences between reading a book versus reading a commercial, and how to be your own engineer and producer (in addition to being talent!). He also covers topics such as character voice development, point of view, auditions, and the importance of training (before recording that very first audiobook). Bring along your love of storytelling and prepare to learn what it takes to be a successful audiobook narrator!

About the Spotlight Conversations podcast:

Tune in as I invite friends inside my cozy linoleum free recording studio to talk about all things media - radio, television, music, film, voiceovers, audiobooks, publishing - if guests know media, we're talkin'! Unscripted and nearly always entertaining, each guest gets real about their careers in the entertainment biz; from where they started to how it's going. Join us in my swanky studio where drinks are always on ice; music + media are the conversation starters. New episodes every other Tuesday.

Social media links, website and more here
Follow and subscribe to my podcast here

A very special thank you to friends who helped bring the Spotlight Conversations podcast together:
Booth Announcer: Joe Szymanski ('Joe The Voice Guy')
Theme Song Composer: Mark Sparrow, SongBird Studios

In Texas today along with all its history, as told by the master Texas history storyteller, writer, stand-up comic, screenwriter, radio guy and author Mike Vance. His new book 'Getting Away with Bloody Murder:J.B. Brockman, the best Criminal Lawyer in Texas' (available now on Amazon) describes the life and times of Brockman, who rose from 'shady character to preeminent defense attorney in Houston' (visualize a turn of the century 'Perry Mason). Mike talks about his journey as a student who loved history class (excellent teachers) and supportive parents (who encouraged him to read); his love of words and historical research; working in radio (including 97 Talk in Houston); screenwriting for the BBC and American television (including his contribution for PBS on the 'Birth of Texas' series); and what the future holds for the historical Brenham Heritage Museum and Night Heron Media, where he is Creative Director. Bring your love of the Lone Star State to the studio and listen in!

About the Spotlight Conversations podcast:

Tune in as I invite friends inside my cozy linoleum free recording studio to talk about all things media - radio, television, music, film, voiceovers, audiobooks, publishing - if guests know media, we're talkin'! Unscripted and nearly always entertaining, each guest gets real about their careers in the entertainment biz; from where they started to how it's going. Join us in my swanky studio where drinks are always on ice; music + media are the conversation starters. New episodes every other Tuesday.

Social media links, website and more here
Follow and subscribe to my podcast here

A very special thank you to friends who helped bring the Spotlight Conversations podcast together:
Booth Announcer: Joe Szymanski ('Joe The Voice Guy')
Theme Song Composer: Mark Sparrow, SongBird Studios

In the studio with Houston's man behind the camera - Al Torres of Al Torres Photography. As a sought after photographer for newsmakers around Houston, Al talks about how he captures those famous photos of television and media personalities through his unique camera lens. The photographer for Media Alliance of Houston and the Star Awards Gala (April 14, 2022 at the Post Oak Hotel) discusses everything from taking photos of news personalities in both their working news room environment to capturing the true personality outside of the newsroom; creative advertising campaigns he's worked on; what he knows about the psychology of photography plus what inspires him (and his subjects). From album cover art  to his iconic photo of President George Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush at the Palms Restaurant in Houston to his current project: cover art photographer for local television personality Dominique Sachse's new book "Life Makeover: Embrace the Bold, Beautiful, and Blessed You", this photographer knows everything it takes to capture the best image for his clients. Join us!

About the Spotlight Conversations podcast:

Tune in as I invite friends inside my cozy linoleum free recording studio to talk about all things media - radio, television, music, film, voiceovers, audiobooks, publishing - if guests know media, we're talkin'! Unscripted and nearly always entertaining, each guest gets real about their careers in the entertainment biz; from where they started to how it's going. Join us in my swanky studio where drinks are always on ice; music + media are the conversation starters. New episodes every other Tuesday.

Social media links, website and more here
Follow and subscribe to my podcast here

A very special thank you to friends who helped bring the Spotlight Conversations podcast together:
Booth Announcer: Joe Szymanski ('Joe The Voice Guy')
Theme Song Composer: Mark Sparrow, SongBird Studios

In Dallas today with radio personality Ted McKay, known as 'The Rock Professor' at Dallas rock radio station Lone Star 92.5. Now retired from a successful career in radio (including gigs at WRDU and WZZU in Raleigh, NC), The Professor discusses rock music and audiences; traditional radio and internet radio; life after radio and believe it or not class reunions, all told in his own down to earth style.  He also talks about his volunteer work with animal rescue group Paws In The City in Dallas and his podcast 'Hanging out with Ted McKay'.  Bring along your love of stories and join us for this fun and entertaining episode.

About the Spotlight Conversations podcast:

Tune in as I invite friends inside my cozy linoleum free recording studio to talk about all things media - radio, television, music, film, voiceovers, audiobooks, publishing - if guests know media, we're talkin'! Unscripted and nearly always entertaining, each guest gets real about their careers in the entertainment biz; from where they started to how it's going. Join us in my swanky studio where drinks are always on ice; music + media are the conversation starters. New episodes every other Tuesday.

Social media links, website and more here
Follow and subscribe to my podcast here

A very special thank you to friends who helped bring the Spotlight Conversations podcast together:
Booth Announcer: Joe Szymanski ('Joe The Voice Guy')
Theme Song Composer: Mark Sparrow, SongBird Studios

Settling into the studio today with Houston radio and marketing guru Joe Pogge, creator of Strike Marketing. Joe talks about the 80's morning radio days in Houston (one of his first radio gigs was Marketing Director at The infamous Q Morning Zoo); audiences and great morning radio show formulas; promotion backstories (like that early viral marketing campaign of 1986 involving The Houston Rockets/The LA Lakers game (#sunglasses #JackNicholson). We also discuss the rise of internet radio stations (like Houston Radio Platinum, one of our shared radio station hangouts); his podcast Smokin' Joe's Driving Range;  current charity work with Rebuilding Houston and more.  If you love to hear media stories from a promotional expert, tune in! 

About the Spotlight Conversations podcast:

Tune in as I invite friends inside my cozy linoleum free recording studio to talk about all things media - radio, television, music, film, voiceovers, audiobooks, publishing - if guests know media, we're talkin'! Unscripted and nearly always entertaining, each guest gets real about their careers in the entertainment biz; from where they started to how it's going. Join us in my swanky studio where drinks are always on ice; music + media are the conversation starters. New episodes every other Tuesday.

Social media links, website and more here
Follow and subscribe to my podcast here

A very special thank you to friends who helped bring the Spotlight Conversations podcast together:
Booth Announcer: Joe Szymanski ('Joe The Voice Guy')
Theme Song Composer: Mark Sparrow, SongBird Studios

On today's episode, it's all about Vegas baby! I'm in the studio with the ‘Spotlight Conversations podcast theme song creator' (yup, I just added a new title to his list of achievements), the veteran musician Mark Sparrow. From gigs in Las Vegas to touring with rockers The Romantics, Molly Hatchet and Rick Derringer; then off to create signature music for slot machines (in Vegas and worldwide) Mark has done it all. This versatile musician, producer and engineer talks about breaking into the music scene; what it means to be a versatile sight reading musical artist; starting up a one man band plus all about his new country rock band "Steam Town Road". If you really love the stories behind the music, join us!

About the Spotlight Conversations podcast:

Tune in as I invite friends inside my cozy linoleum free recording studio to talk about all things media - radio, television, music, film, voiceovers, audiobooks, publishing - if guests know media, we're talkin'! Unscripted and nearly always entertaining, each guest gets real about their careers in the entertainment biz; from where they started to how it's going. Join us in my swanky studio where drinks are always on ice; music + media are the conversation starters. New episodes every other Tuesday.

Social media links, website and more here
Follow and subscribe to my podcast here

A very special thank you to friends who helped bring the Spotlight Conversations podcast together:
Booth Announcer: Joe Szymanski ('Joe The Voice Guy')
Theme Song Composer: Mark Sparrow, SongBird Studios

A slight twist on the podcast today as I combine media and technology and chat with tech savvy Michael Farnum, Chief Techology Officer at Set Solutions, and the Founder/President of  HOU.SEC.CON, the Houston area information security conference. This IT pro talks Network Security (staying safe on line); what you can do about spam calls and emails; the ongoing relationship between media and technology; patching, multi-factor authenication, vulnerabilities and open source; plus the future of AI and voiceovers (this podcaster learned plenty in the interview - whew!) And for you media buffs, Michael dishes out which television dramas are tech accurate ('Mr. Robot' ) and which are sheer Hollywood; the double meaning of hackers; how he founded HOUSECCON, and why solving puzzles and picking locks may make you the next IT pro. So whether you're someone who knows all about tech, or if you're just learning about the computer scene, stay ahead of the game and  join us!

About the Spotlight Conversations podcast:

Tune in as I invite friends inside my cozy linoleum free recording studio to talk about all things media - radio, television, music, film, voiceovers, audiobooks, publishing - if guests know media, we're talkin'! Unscripted and nearly always entertaining, each guest gets real about their careers in the entertainment biz; from where they started to how it's going. Join us in my swanky studio where drinks are always on ice; music + media are the conversation starters. New episodes every other Tuesday.

Social media links, website and more here
Follow and subscribe to my podcast here

A very special thank you to friends who helped bring the Spotlight Conversations podcast together:
Booth Announcer: Joe Szymanski ('Joe The Voice Guy')
Theme Song Composer: Mark Sparrow, SongBird Studios

Radio personality and community advocate Irish Dave (Dave O'Connor) is in the studio this week, bringing along his lighthearted humor to stories about growing up and starting his broadcasting career in Dublin, Ireland to making the brave move to radio in the United States (South Bend Indiana no less, home of the Fighting Irish - true story!). The afternoon show host at WAOR talks about his American broadcasting career, from how writing a poem introduced him to legendary radio personality Paul 'Cubby' Bryant on WKTU in New York; and the backstory of Dave's second gig as a radio host for the Irish Music Show on WROL in Boston and the close community of listeners who join him each week. He then talks about his true passion: supporting non profit agencies around Indiana and children's charities, including Ryan's Place, Bashor Children's Home and his work with CASA as a Court Appointed Special Advocate. Funny and candid, it's an interview you don't want to miss. Join us!

About the Spotlight Conversations podcast:

Tune in as I invite friends inside my cozy linoleum free recording studio to talk about all things media - radio, television, music, film, voiceovers, audiobooks, publishing - if guests know media, we're talkin'! Unscripted and nearly always entertaining, each guest gets real about their careers in the entertainment biz; from where they started to how it's going. Join us in my swanky studio where drinks are always on ice; music + media are the conversation starters. New episodes every other Tuesday.

Social media links, website and more here
Follow and subscribe to my podcast here

A very special thank you to friends who helped bring the Spotlight Conversations podcast together:
Booth Announcer: Joe Szymanski ('Joe The Voice Guy')
Theme Song Composer: Mark Sparrow, SongBird Studios

A holiday visit to North Carolina this week as I visit with Founder and Executive Director of Theatre In The Park Ira David Wood III. The beloved character actor, who for 48 years has played the part of 'Scrooge' for the theatre's musical production of 'A Christmas Carol' in Raleigh, talks about how his East Carolina roots combined with his love of reading Shakespeare and Dickens started his stage career. The actor and playwright who created his own unique musical/comedy production of a holiday classic, discusses the importance of honesty in acting, building audience trust and the fun of character development. He also talks about two of his children who followed him in their own careers: Emmy nominated actress Evan Rachel Wood (Westworld) and son Ira (Artistic Director for Theatre in the Park) and how they still reach out to dad for his creative advice. Bring along your love of the stage (and a mug of wassail!) and join us.

About the Spotlight Conversations podcast:

Tune in as I invite friends inside my cozy linoleum free recording studio to talk about all things media - radio, television, music, film, voiceovers, audiobooks, publishing - if guests know media, we're talkin'! Unscripted and nearly always entertaining, each guest gets real about their careers in the entertainment biz; from where they started to how it's going. Join us in my swanky studio where drinks are always on ice; music + media are the conversation starters. New episodes every other Tuesday.

Social media links, website and more here
Follow and subscribe to my podcast here

A very special thank you to friends who helped bring the Spotlight Conversations podcast together:
Booth Announcer: Joe Szymanski ('Joe The Voice Guy')
Theme Song Composer: Mark Sparrow, SongBird Studios

It's happening in Nashville this week as I interview musician Webb Wilder, the inspiration for the private eye character in the book 'Webb Wilder - Last Of The Full Grown Men" a book series with two stories in the series: "The Doll" and "Mole Men". We talk about the writers of the book, Steve Boyle and Shane Caldwell; Wilder's love of country and rock music (including his first band "The Drapes") and his film work ('The Thing Called Love' and 'Webb Wilder Private Eye') which aired on USA Network's Night Flight. The self proclaimed 'part Marlowe, part Gonzo' detective character in the book also discusses working as one of the first satellite DJ's in the US plus all about his new album Night Without Love (with cover art by legendary album artist Flournoy Holmes (Eat A Peach, The Allman Brothers Band). Drop in and tune in to this versatile performer talk about his storied music career!

About the Spotlight Conversations podcast:

Tune in as I invite friends inside my cozy linoleum free recording studio to talk about all things media - radio, television, music, film, voiceovers, audiobooks, publishing - if guests know media, we're talkin'! Unscripted and nearly always entertaining, each guest gets real about their careers in the entertainment biz; from where they started to how it's going. Join us in my swanky studio where drinks are always on ice; music + media are the conversation starters. New episodes every other Tuesday.

Social media links, website and more here
Follow and subscribe to my podcast here

A very special thank you to friends who helped bring the Spotlight Conversations podcast together:
Booth Announcer: Joe Szymanski ('Joe The Voice Guy')
Theme Song Composer: Mark Sparrow, SongBird Studios