Books Shows Tunes & Mad Acts

Episode 285: The Garden Album from Musica Sierra

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 14:00:00 +0000

Emerging from the soil of Sierra County is the new album, Garden, ostensibly for children as part of an early education program about science, but its blend of folk, Celtic, bluegrass, and a bit of gospel will appeal to many adults as well. Project manager and Musica Sierra director, Lindsay McIntosh joins us today to discuss the album, which is the fifth of a seven-part series. Each album targets a grade-level (Garden is for Kindergarten- get it?) and includes a unique illustrated book and a personal journal. Lindsay has melded together a wide variety of musicians, artists, and professionals to create an audio and visual experience for children that is truly exceptional. No miss this opportunity to hear from a professional musician and program leader at the top of her game making it work and living her dream in the remote and beautiful high Sierra. A great episode for music teachers, parents with children, and anyone with ears.

Musica Sierra's website:
https://www.musicasierra.org/

The Old School House Project:
https://www.musicasierra.org/tosh

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

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Episode 284: The Knuckleball with Chris Nowlin

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 00:53:14 +0000

Enter the world of the knuckleball and its specialized lingo: drag crisis, loop de loop, and dreaded forward roll. The knuckleball pitch is dying out in baseball, but Chris Nowlin still teaches it and, importantly, still throws it with the lowest rotation on earth today. He discusses here how to throw it, why it's effective, and why it's so darn hard to throw consistently. He also offers guidance on identifying potential knuckleballers, strength training, arm protection, and being a big-league pitcher in general, along with a bit of life advice. We also discuss Matt Waldron of the Padres along with other knuckleballers: Tim Wakefield, Phil Niekro, RA Dickey, and Charlie Hough. And finally, Chris gives us some thoughts on the current approach to pitching in the MLB right now and where we might be headed. An informative and insightful episode.

Chris Nowlin's website:
https://knuckleballnation.com/

Socials:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn3xKAXGUrTeWW62_u-VtSg
XTwitter: @KnuckNation
Insta: @KnuckNation

Show Notes

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

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Episode 283: David LeBrun and His Memoir, Delirium Vitae

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Available today! Meet Canadian author, David LeBrun, whose first book, a travel memoir, is being published today by Tortoise Books. Delirium Vitae is a recounting of David's adventures in Central America when he fled the cold Canadian winter to party with an old friend, promptly ran out of money, and began the slow journey of discovering what he was running from while returning home. In this episode, David talks about the jobs-related book he was working on during the trip and how it was scuttled when this one emerged. Delirium Vitae weaves David's adventures with colorful if sketchy characters into a portrait of a sensitive and observant young man, trying to grapple with life's tragedies. He also offers insights into his long writing process, the usefulness of editors and critique groups, and what to focus on as a writer. Come for the breakneck, page-turning escapades, stay for the thoughtful exploration of self-healing through writing. A wonderful episode for readers and writers.

David's book at Tortoise Books:
https://tortoisebooks.com/store/deliriumvitae

David's website, including some short stories:
https://www.davidlebrun.ca/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

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Episode 282: South of the Yangtze with Flora Qian

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Welcome Flora Qian with her first novel "South of the Yangtze," a coming-of-age story of a thoughtful and curious Chinese girl, born and raised in Shanghai during the one-child years.* Flora discusses the origins of the novel which maps some of her own experiences as a young woman educated in China who then moved to Hong Kong. The intriguing novel, written in English, explores the themes of language, relationships, loneliness, and community, against a backdrop of post-Cultural Revolution China. Flora discusses her interest in Chinese characters, how Mandarin and English entered her life, how Chinese sayings and folk tales influence our thinking, the risks of original thought, and how circumstances often hinder our ability to reach greater intimacy with others. A thought-provoking episode with something for everyone.

*And could make a great holiday present!

Flora's website:
https://floraqian.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

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Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

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Episode 281: Melinda Blau and Her Wisdom Whisperers

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Relationship expert Melinda Blau is back with her new book, "The Wisdom Whisperers: Golden Guides to a Long Life of Grit, Grace, and Laughter." Melinda began collecting her "old ladies," as she calls them, in mid-life and shares here the tremendous wisdom and benefit she has received over the past twenty years or so from these relationships with women much older than she is. Not so much a book on aging as a continuation of Melinda's astute career-long observations about the magic and wonder of relationships, The Wisdom Whisperers will make you laugh, reflect, learn, and may inspire you to give the book as a gift to someone dear to you. Always forthright and plain spoken, but also optimistic and good-humored, Melinda now finds herself in the ranks of these golden oldies and reminds the listeners to appreciate all that life has to offer. A wonderful upbeat and thought-provoking episode.

Melinda's website:
https://melindablau.com/

My previous episode with Melinda about "Consequential Strangers":
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/episodes/2021-12-31T22_00_00-08_00

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

Support us!

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/support/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

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Episode 280: Oilfield Mysteries with Malvina Lerma

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Join petroleum engineer Malvina Lerma as she talks about her cozy mystery series, Oilfield Mysteries, and her amateur sleuth, Charlie, a woman working in a man's world. Malvina and Jennifer talk about the oil industry, Bakersfield, the BP catastrophe, well drilling, as well as a bunch of writing-related topics: how to convey technical expertise in a novel, what makes a cozy, Malvina's influences (especially Agathie Christie), and how to get better as a writer. An upbeat conversation great for writers and mystery lovers.

Malvina's website:
https://oilfieldmysteries.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

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Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

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Episode 279: Talking Music with The Tattletale Saints

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 14:00:00 +0000

The two parts of the Americana duo Tattletale Saints, Simon Stanley and Vanessa McGowen, join us today to talk about tons of music stuff: their formation and evolution, Simon's foray into kids music, Vanessa's bass playing, their move to Nashville, what makes a good cover, and why music from New Zealand might be especially innovative. Simon also talks about songwriting, and Vanessa gives advice to early musicians about making success out of passion. We also include D.I.N.K., one of The Tattletale Saints songs. You just might be a D.I.N.K.! A lovely episode for music listeners, makers, and lovers of all shapes.

The Tattletale Saints website:
https://www.tattletalesaints.com/

Simon's website:
https://www.simonstanleysays.com/

Vanessa's website:
https://vanessamcgowan.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

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https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/support/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

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Episode 278: Two Novels with Christina Hoag

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Join us to talk about "Law of the Jungle" and "Skin of Tattoos," two of Christina's novels, both replete with interesting characters and quite absorbing . One is about a biochemist deep in the Amazonian jungle who falls in love with the perfect guy only to discover—well, you can imagine. What you might not imagine is what she does next. Drawn from Christina's experience working with LA gangs, "Skin of Tattoos" is a sympathetic story about a gang member released from jail who finds himself inexorably drawn back into his old life, only worse. Christina is a journalist with a colorful past full of rich adventures that she brings enthusiastically to her writing. A great episode for writers and curious readers who are drawn to the noir-er side of thriller novels.

Christina's website:
https://www.christinahoag.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

Support us!

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/support/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

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LI: Jennifer K Crittenden

Episode 277: Sarah Langan and her Novel "A Better World"

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Sarah Langan, author of "A Better World" and "Good Neighbors," talks about her new dystopian novel and its frightening similarities to our current real life. In Sarah's novel, our hero, Linda, doctor and mom, is initially thrilled to be accepted into Plymouth Valley, a safe refuge for her family from an outside crazy world, but too soon she discovers that there are disturbing dark elements to this so-called utopia. In this episode, Sarah and Jennifer discuss the novel and its plot and characters, Orson Welles' 1984, the horror genre, and writing in general. A great episode for readers and writers.

Sarah's website:
https://sarahlangan.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

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Jennifer on XTwitter:

@Mad_Acts

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Episode 276: Campus Protests and Free Speech

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 24 Jun 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Joining us to talk about the recent campus protests and their ramifications for free speech is Kristen Shahverdian of PEN America. Kristen discusses the various balls that campuses must keep in the air, considering the participants' right to free speech, safety on campus, and viewpoint-neutral policy decisions. She discusses the advice that PEN America offers to campus administrators about how to reasonably respond to protesters and what would constitute a disproportionate reaction. We dig into the history of campus protests, from the Free Speech movement to Kent State, as well as recent specific incidents at Columbia University and Indiana University. Kristen also tackles such complexities as repercussions for civil disobedience, draconian punishments, and how the protests have been represented in the media. All this, and more, for free! An important episode.

PEN America's Campus Free Speech Guide:
https://campusfreespeechguide.pen.org/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

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Episode 275: Sam Hinton, Folk Singer, Scientist, and Amazing Person

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 27 May 2024 09:00:00 +0000

The Sam Hinton Folk Heritage Festival at Old Poway Park in San Diego will be held June 1! We're delighted in this episode to share Sam's history through the eyes of his granddaughter Katrina Hinton-Cooper. In this wide-ranging conversation, we discuss Sam's music, his tremendous work for the Aquarium Museum of the Scripps Institute of Oceanography, and his outlook on the world, as shown through his songs, humor, drawings, and observations. We also manage to talk about science fiction, hypnosis through storytelling, circular breathing, and the joys and foibles of our peculiar species. An uplifting episode with something for everyone.

Information about the Sam Hinton Festival:
https://sdfolkheritage.org/events/sam-hinton-fest/

Sam's website:
http://samhinton.org/

Katrina's blog:
https://somerandomchick.jouwweb.nl/the-blog

Some YouTube videos of Sam that we mention:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VGArzUTCegg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jcSLudnKFPA&list=PL3D66F0AE1034A321
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pqTDHRau1lc

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

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@JenCrittenden

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Episode 274: How To Write Better About Drugs

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 20 May 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Join us as pharmacist Miffie Seideman talks about her new book from Indiana University Press, "The Grim Reader: A Pharmacist's Guide to Putting Your Characters in Peril," a great resource for fiction writers who would like to bring a bit more accuracy to their drug-related scenes. Jennifer and Miffie talk about the most egregious errors that show up in books and movies (provoking eye rolls from experts) and how more accurate scenes would result in better and less clichéd writing. We also discuss some notable oddities, such as psychedelic parenting, body packing, belladonna, and the real dangers of alcohol-related games. A fascinating episode for writers and readers alike.

Miffie's excellent book:
https://www.press.jhu.edu/books/cart?domain=iupress.org

Miffie's website where she offers additional information about drugs, writing, and triathlons, and will even answer questions:
https://miffieseideman.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

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Episode 273: An Appraisal of "Splinters"

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 13 May 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Okay, so the new memoir "Splinters" wasn't our favorite book ever, and sometimes it downright irritated us, but our investigation into what worked (and what didn't!) makes for a fascinating conversation about the nature of memoir and new trends in the genre, from "woe is me" themes to shameless self-exposure which apparently appeals to voyeuristic readers. John Julius Reel and Jennifer discuss the author, Leslie Jamison, the buzz surrounding this book, and their critiques and suggestions for what would have made this book better. Opinionated, passionate, and willing to be harsh, John and Jennifer defend their positions but acknowledge that their own perspective and age might color their view of this very contemporary memoir about being a single mother. A special episode for book lovers and critics.

John Julius Reel's YouTube Channel "Book Rants":
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCbY7cNG-XRBsJyfWYi0DJQ

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

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Episode 272: The Use of AI in Screenwriting

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Join Craig Erpelding, Director of the BFA in Cinematic Arts at Indiana University, to discuss the ways AI can be used effectively and ethically in the development of screenplays and the teaching of screenwriting. Craig bravely jumps into this fraught topic and clearly and logically explains his own research with the tool and what limitations and concerns he has uncovered. Knowing that students are going to use AI in the development of their work, he advises students and teachers alike about how AI can assist in creative work. He argues that AI often produces C-level work, but that in itself can be used as a teaching tool. Additionally, AI can be used to improve work by critiquing elements like story structure. Craig and Jennifer also talk about screenplays that fit the Hollywood formulas, as well as meeting audience expectations, and how the intention of the filmmaker influences their choices.

Craig's book "Filmmaking with Intention: A Comprehensive Guide to Creating Engaging Motion Pictures":
https://www.amazon.com/Filmmaking-Intention-Comprehensive-Creating-Engaging/dp/1793521093

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

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Episode 271: April 27 Is Indie Bookstore Day!

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Join us as we talk with Teri Den Herder, longtime bookseller at the UCSD Bookstore, about Independent Bookstore Day, the annual celebration of indie bookstores, and the San Diego Book Crawl, the weekend when booklovers swarm the 13 participating bookstores in search of books, passport stamps, prizes, and surprises. We discuss the national day, how it got started, what's new this year (shuttle busses!), how the event has grown, what to expect, and how to have the most fun. We also discuss Teri's long career, the legacy she is creating with young booksellers, and the art of matching people and books, as performed by humans instead of algorithms. Also check out the participating San Diego bookstores from Diesel to Mysterious Galaxy, Joyride, La Playa, Verbatim, Bluestocking, and more. A super fun conversation about the events of this coming weekend that you don't want to miss!

How to find out more about the San Diego Book Crawl:
https://www.instagram.com/sdbookcrawl/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

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Episode 270: The Magic of Debi Derryberry

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Join the charming Debi Derryberry as we explore her long career as a voice-over artist, including voicing Jimmy Neutron, as well as her various projects, such as the recent release of her fourth CD of children's music, Gotta Go Green. Here she generously shares her experiences, growing up with a "little voice," her foray to Nashville, and returning to California to settle into a successful acting and voice career in Hollywood which has resulted in over 400 IMDb credits (so far!). Debi also works as a voice-over teacher and coach, and she provides advice here about different types of voice-over work, and what it takes to be successful in the field. We also manage to talk about Honey Pig, heated vests, riding a killer whale, and how to make your own recording booth. Lastly, she entertains us with her "If I had a magic wand" wishes, and don't miss her new song "Earth Day Is My Birthday" at the end. A fun episode!

Debi's website where you can find the "Gotta Go Green" CD and the "Voice-Over 101" book:
https://www.debiderryberry.com/

Debi Derryberry Kids YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAM6ZbvWAFQNRchmhO1GvXg

Debi Derryberry socials: @debiderryberry

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

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Episode 269: Plea Bargains with Prof. Dripps

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000

University of San Diego law professor Donald Dripps joins us to educate us on the plea bargain system which has essentially replaced what we think of as our criminal justice system. Prof. Dripps explains why defendants waive their right to a jury trial by pleading guilty, why defense attorneys recommend taking a plea, why prosecutors offer up "deals" for alleged criminals, and the ramifications of "self-conviction." He discusses which cases tend to get pled out, in what jurisdictions, and if folks who have pled guilty are ever exonerated. He explains how mandatory sentencing minimums increase the pressure to take a plea, along with trial delays, the "trial penalty," and overburdened public defenders. Despite some of its injustices, the plea option acts like a pressure valve on our bloated criminal justice system. Prof. Dripps describes some improvements that could be made and warns us that, in its current state, the system is vulnerable to certain strategies which could bring about its collapse. A fascinating view into a complex legal network.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

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Episode 268: Billy Galewood FKA Bushwalla

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000

San Diego's own wild & crazy guy, Billy Galewood, recounts his quest for fun from Cleveland to Bushwalla and beyond. An original showman from the Java Joe days, he entertains through improv, song, rap, storytelling, and making people laugh. Here he tells the tales of musical theatre, the Cleveland Opera, early days with Jason Mraz, how meditation led to the demise of Bushwalla, his LA/SD split personality, and his reincarnation as a comic and celebrity host. He also shares the SECRET TO LIFE. Don't miss this utterly charming episode with Jennifer and Bill.

The movie about Jack Tempchin by Gregory Page:
https://www.midnightjackthemovie.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

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Episode 267: Talking Trash with Rafi Kohan

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Rafi Kohan's new book, "Trash Talk: The Only Book About Destroying Your Rivals That Isn't Total Garbage," covers sh*t talking and its relatives: bench jockeying, the dozens, and sledging; as well as its variants from ancient times (think Odysseus and hubris). Rafi discusses the complexity of trash talk in its levels of teasing, threat, trust, and going "too far," but delves further into its effectiveness in competition, or lack thereof. He goes on to explore the research about these psychological tactics, their use in coaching, and the training used to build up mental toughness in the Special Forces. We also have a good laugh about the rivalries between siblings and between the Padres and the Dodgers. A wide-ranging fun episode with something for everyone.

The book:
https://www.amazon.com/Trash-Talk-Destroying-Rivals-Garbage/dp/1541788915

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Episode 266: Having a Ball with Hullabaloo

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Join Steve Denyes, of Hullabaloo, the best kids' music band in these parts (and maybe the universe!), as he chats about songwriting, kids and parents, and what has changed in the twenty years that Hullabaloo has been performing. Hullabaloo's first live album, their 15th album overall, came out this month. It was recorded live in Sun Studio, and Steve talks about what it was like to be in Memphis, learning about its history and living some of it too. We also get to talk about word play, folk songs, Feeding San Diego, and the community that has grown up around the band. An insightful episode with a thoughtful and funny musician.

Hullabaloo's website:
https://hullabalooband.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Post.News:

@JenCrittenden

Jennifer on XTwitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Episode 265: The Story of Botox with Dr. Eugene Helveston

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Dr. Helveston's new book tells the history of the Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium that was discovered and researched as a poison and how it came to be Botox, with multiple medical applications and a household word in the beauty industry. As an ophthalmologist, Dr. Helveston worked with Alan Scott who is credited with developing and manufacturing Botox although, as you'll hear in the episode, his rewards were more advancing science and having fun rather than making money. It's a fascinating tale of a remarkable person and his dedication to a useful toxin.

Eugene Helveson's website:
https://eugenehelveston.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Post.News:

@JenCrittenden

Jennifer on XTwitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Episode 264: The Guest Book with Sarah Blake

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Please join us for a wonderful conversation with author Sarah Blake about her latest novel, The Guest Book, a book described by the Washington Post as "monumental," a sweeping family drama of secrets and silence that crosses three generations but is anchored by a private island off the coast of Maine. With periods set in the thirties, just before World War II; in the late fifties, just before the Civil Rights Movement; and in present day, it is very much of our time as it dares to approach the issues of racism and anti-Semitism and asks us to consider our own role in history. Sarah also talks about her challenges and rewards in writing this weighty novel. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode with a glorious writer.

Sarah Blake's website:
https://www.sarahblakewrites.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Post.News:

@JenCrittenden

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@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Episode 263: Book Bans and the PEN America Lawsuit

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Nearly 6,000 instances of book banning have been recorded since 2021, and the book censorship movement is growing, accelerated by new laws in some states. PEN America has joined Penguin Random House, authors, and students in a lawsuit against Escambia County school district, challenging unlawful censorship. PEN America program director, Kasey Meehan, joins us to talk about the numbers, what is being banned, who is driving the movement, and what actions, both legal and grassroots, are underway to push back against this fundamental challenge to freedom of expression and our democracy. Kasey explains in layman's terms what topics are being censored, how book ban lists are copied from state to state, and how state laws are creating a chilling effect on teachers and librarians who err on the side of "caution," by removing books or not buying them. We discuss the principles behind freedom of expression and open discourse, as well as specifics of the book ban movement, such as Moms for Liberty and their website, booklooks.org, which provides "slick sheets," excerpts used to support book bans. Don't miss this essential episode.

The PEN America Call to Action webpage:
https://pen.org/issue/free-the-books/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

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Jennifer on Post.News:

@JenCrittenden

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Episode 262: Siskel and Ebert: Opposable Thumbs

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Matt Singer, author of Opposable Thumbs: How Siskel and Ebert Changed Movies Forever, joins us to discuss two TV guys who argued passionately about movies for over twenty years, during a period when American Cinema was in its heyday, and film criticism rose to the challenge. Matt's book covers the history of S&E's successful collaboration, somewhat surprising since they were first longform movie critics from competing Chicago newspapers, before they joined thumbs and their Two Thumbs Up! became a household movie endorsement. Matt describes the relationship, respect, and competition between the two, as well as his own relationship with Roger Ebert, and the history of S&E's work, how it evolved, what they did well, and maybe some places they missed the boat. Our conversation runs the gamut from fun stuff like skunks on the show to deeper questions about film criticism today. Matt's extraordinary knowledge about the history of S&E, as well as his enthusiasm for Siskel and Ebert as people and critics, for their show, and for movies in general bubbles forth in this episode. Whether you remember Siskel and Ebert or not, don't miss this episode about an extraordinary period in American Film.

Matt's website:
https://www.matt-singer.net/

Matt's day job (read his articles here):
https://screencrush.com/

Matt on Letterboxd: @superpulse
https://letterboxd.com/superpulse/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Post.News:

@JenCrittenden

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Episode 261: Our Deadly Streets with Jeff Speck

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

American streets killed more than 7500 pedestrians in 2023, a 40-year high and climbing every year. Why? City planner and walkable cities advocate Jeff Speck joins us to explain that street design is largely to blame and how modest changes could be made to increase safety, as has been done in European cities with dramatic results. Jeff uses traffic studies to show how urban planning can affect driver speed, traffic congestion, safety, and walkability—all of which can improve and restore our sense of community in the places we live. With wonderful examples of the many cities where Jeff has completed projects, this episode will get you thinking about your neighborhood and what changes you would like to see, be it more trees, pleasanter streets, or simply fewer deaths. Also, we have a new website! Check us out at https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/

Jeff Speck's website:
https://www.speckdempsey.com/

Jeff's book, Walkable City (be sure to get the Tenth Anniversary edition)
https://www.amazon.com/Walkable-City-Tenth-Anniversary-Downtown/dp/1250857988

The movie that Jeff mentions, The Street Project
https://www.amazon.com/Street-Project-Maya-Aoki-Tuttle/dp/B0B6VW7MQ3

The Strong Towns Movement:
https://www.strongtowns.org/

The Releaf Cedar Rapids Project:
https://www.cedar-rapids.org/residents/parks_and_recreation/releaf_cedar_rapids_.php

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://booksshowstunes.discreetguide.com/contact/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Episode 260: Jennifer Jenkins Takes Us Into the Public Domain

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 15 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Duke copyright law professor Jennifer Jenkins joins us to celebrate and explain Public Domain Day. After a twenty-year hiatus, copyrighted works began moving into the public domain in 2019. Now each year, we can re-discover works that are available to be re-purposed by creators without the legal burden of obtaining permission from the former copyright holders. This year, for example, includes works such as The House at Pooh Corner, Millions of Cats, The ThreePenny Opera, and the 800-pound mouse, as Jennifer calls him, Mickey Mouse (as well as Minnie) as seen in Steamboat Willie. Interestingly, in the context of our recent conversation about censorship, Lady Chatterly's Love enters the public domain this year and now can be explored and built upon by everyone. We also discuss Poor Things, the new film paying homage to Shelley's Frankenstein. Jennifer explains it all in this lively episode: what copyright law is and was, what it covers, why the copyright period was extended, and what you, as a creator, can do with works now in the public domain. We also get to talk about art, inspiration, Disney, monetization, plagiarism, creative commons licenses —and even a bit more about Tom Lehrer.

Jennifer's article about Public Domain Day 2024:
https://web.law.duke.edu/cspd/publicdomainday/2024/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsletter_axiosam&stream=top

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Episode 259: Censorship and Obscenities with Michael Adams

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Indiana University English professor Michael Adams returns to talk about taboo language and historical attempts to document it and suppress it. He bravely takes on the fraught issues around the f-word, bathroom graffiti, obscene literature, Shakespeare, and even hate speech. Along the way, he enlightens us about the Comstock Act, Tijuana bibles, smuggling contraband books, and daring scholars who persisted in studying forbidden language, particularly those supported by Madeleine Kripke, whose remarkable book collection continues to be literally unpacked by the Lilly Library. We also discuss the protection of free expression by the Constitution and the important role of universities in balancing American values and ideals and providing broad access to knowledge. We discuss the recent and on-going controversy surrounding the university presidents' Congressional testimony, Indiana's de-funding of IU's Kinsey Institute, and the styles of censorship in fashion today. And finally, Michael shares some interesting data about swearing and intelligence, and we learn what delulu means. A wonderfully meaty and tasty episode!

Link to the episode when Michael first talked about the Kripke Collection:
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/episodes/2022-04-01T14_00_00-07_00

Link to "Strong Language," the fun publication that Michael talks about:
https://stronglang.wordpress.com/2023/04/29/your-gal-aint-doodly-squat/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Episode 258: News of Tom Lehrer with Jeff Morris

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 21:25:12 +0000

The great Tom Lehrer has a new album! Put out by Needlejuice records and mixed by our guest, Jeff Morris, from the original reel-to-reel tapes, it's a compilation of all of Tom's songs recorded with an orchestra, now available in stereo for the first time. This gives us a wonderful excuse to revisit Tom's unusual career, his transition from touring artist to UC-Santa Cruz math instructor, and some of our favorite songs, like Silent E, which we include in the podcast. Jeff tells the story of how he met Tom when Jeff was writing a paper on satire in high school and their subsequent friendship and the discovery of the orchestral tapes in Tom's basement. We also talk about Tom's recent attempt to share his music by placing all his songs in the public domain, which shows just what an extraordinary person he is. Merry Christmas to you all, and, as Tom would say, hail Santa and his reindeer, but don't stand underneath when they fly by. And in the spirit of Christmas, go buy his new album!

Jeff Morris's website:
morrisstudios.com

Tom Lehrer's website:
tomlehrersongs.com

Jeff's Dr. Demento website:
dmdb.org

Where to buy the album:
https://needlejuicerecords.com/products/the-conducted-tom-lehrer-cd

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

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Jennifer on Post.News:

@JenCrittenden

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Episode 257: Saturday Night at the Lakeside Supper Club

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 16 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Join bestselling author J. Ryan Stradal to discuss his third novel, Saturday Night at the Lakeside Supper Club, a celebration of food and drink across four generations in Minnesota. J. Ryan contrasts four female voices, four decades, and two restaurants, one a traditional supper club, and the second a chain restaurant, similar to a Denny's. The result is an exploration of our times and our evolving relationship with food and drink, health, and community. J. Ryan also discusses his writing during the pandemic and thoughts about characters and editorial choices. We also manage to talk about culture, deer, smoking, heritage, and a little bit about politics. Don't miss this lovely warm conversation, and don't forget to pick up a copy as a gift for your favorite food lover.

J. Ryan's website:
http://www.jryanstradal.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

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Jennifer on Post.News:

@JenCrittenden

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Episode 256: The Mean Reds with Dale Bridges

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 08 Dec 2023 13:00:00 +0000

Author Dale Bridges joins us to discuss his first novel, The Mean Reds, a fun mystery novel featuring Sam, the self-deluded, weed-addled, but utterly relatable film buff protagonist, who encounters a hilarious cast of characters as he attempts to investigate the death of a stripper. Dale talks about the setting of the novel in Mountainview, a liberal college town, how he developed his characters, and how the novel was ultimately published by a university press. Dale also discusses his own development as a writer and offers advice for how others can persist and improve. The Mean Reds is a fun read and would make a great holiday gift, especially for movie buffs.

Dale's website, including how to buy the book
https://dalebridges.org/

Dale's art-related website:
https://www.dalebridgesart.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Sponsored by Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

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Jennifer on Post.News:

@JenCrittenden

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Episode 255: Shipwrecks! with Charles Beeker

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 23:55:09 +0000

Join Charles Beeker, Indiana University professor and director of the IU Center for Underwater Science, to talk about shipwrecks, underwater treasures and resources, and the surrounding web of related ethical and legal issues. From Indiana shipwrecks (yes! Indiana has shipwrecks and an interesting maritime history) to the Titanic, the Monitor, and Columbia's San José, each historical object is unique, but all serve to lure us into the deep, to learn their stories or investigate what lies beneath. Charlie discusses the controversy over the San José's cargo, estimated at $1.7 billion, currently the subject of a number of lawsuits (no surprise), and this summer's tragedy of the submersible that imploded while traveling down to investigate the Titanic. A expert in diving and underwater research, as well as the technological advances in this work, Charlie has also strived for decades to recognize and preserve these artifacts and explores today on the show the various considerations that must go into underwater treasure hunting. A fascinating episode about hidden but compelling things.

A link to the IU Center for Underwater Science:
https://underwaterscience.indiana.edu/index.html

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

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Jennifer on Post.News:

@JenCrittenden

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@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 254: Brendan Ballou and "Plunder," His Book about Private Equity

Jennifer Crittenden — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 23:52:15 +0000

DOJ Attorney Brendan Ballou discusses his new book, "Plunder: Private Equity's Plan to Pillage America." Ever wonder why we seem to have fewer airlines, fewer retail stores, fewer drugstores, and the same names keep showing up on businesses from rental agencies to nursing homes to mobile home parks? Why did all those long-lasting businesses fail in the past 15 years? (Hint: it's not all Amazon.'s fault.) Doesn't it seem as though fewer people own their own homes? Who got all that Covid money? And why do there seem to be some astonishingly rich folks around? Join us for a remarkable episode about dramatic shifts in basic industries and in the re-distribution of wealth in America. [Views expressed in the book and this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the Department of Justice.]

Plunder, the book (PublicAffairs, 2023):
https://www.plunderthebook.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

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Jennifer on Post.News:

@JenCrittenden

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@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 253: "Carefully Taught" by Cary Ginell

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 11 Nov 2023 03:32:47 +0000

Musicologist Cary Ginell joins us to talk about his new book, "Carefully Taught: American History through Broadway Musicals." Cary is a wealth of information about music in general (and lots of other topics too!), but especially about musicals. Here he talks about musicals that were fairly accurate from a historical standpoint, or why they strayed, and others that stomped all over history with wild abandon. He also couches their creation or production in the time period they covered or during which they were produced with thoughtful consideration of the dark parts of our country's history. A lively discussion ranging from early musicals to favorites, such as South Pacific, The Music Man, Oklahoma, Ragtime, Hamilton, and many more.

Cary's page on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/stores/Cary-Ginell/author/B001H6W2QQ?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Post.News:

@JenCrittenden

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 252: John Julius Reel with My Half Orange

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 04 Nov 2023 09:00:00 +0000

John Julius Reel's new memoir, My Half Orange, is a sweet story of John moving to Seville, Spain and meeting his better half and starting a family. Join us for this intimate conversation about John's maturation into a family man, to his surprise and joy, along with his revelations about learning Spanish and Sevillian ways. The son of Bill Reel, the well known New York Daily News columnist, as well as the creator of the popular YouTube channel Book Rants, John also shares his insights about writing and how he became a better writer himself. A thoughtful conversation about memoirs.

John Julius Reel's website:
https://johnjuliusreel.com/

My Half Orange, A Story of Love and Language in Seville
https://johnjuliusreel.com/books/my-half-orange/

The podcast episode with Mike Jaccarino about the NY newspaper wars that John and I talk about:
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/episodes/2020-05-01T05_00_00-07_00

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Post.News:

@JenCrittenden

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 251: Scary Songs

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 15:33:13 +0000

Bill and Jennifer cover over 40 songs in this fun fast-moving discussion of scary songs, ranging from creepy-sounding songs to songs that are especially horrifying because they don't sound scary at all. From old murder ballads to kicky pop tunes, lyrics about serial killers, theme songs, earworm songs, mysterious odes, nursery rhymes, songs designed to scare your parents, ghoulish tales we love, and those we never (ever) want to hear again, we cover the gamut! Write in and tell us what we forgot. A just-in-time-for-Halloween episode.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Post.News:

@JenCrittenden

Jennifer on X/Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 250: The Mix Tape with Ben Vaughn

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Join us for a fun episode as we chat with Ben Vaughn about the art and pitfalls of the Mix Tape, a passion of Bill's and mine. We talk about why we do it, the selection process, transitions, the dreaded fadeout, and the outrage of some devices jumbling the song order thereby ruining—ruining, I tell you—our genius segues. We also discuss old radio DJs, song dedications, teenagers, and nostalgia. Ben talks about how he selects music for his radio show, The Many Moods of Ben Vaughn, his latest project with Relay Shack Records, and a special show he did with the Geator of old-but-never-before-heard song dedications. Lots of laughs. With Bill Aho.

Our Sponsor, Thematic:
https://hellothematic.com/

Thematic's special code for our listeners:
FA11PROMO (one month free at the Premium level)

Ben's website:
http://benvaughn.org/

The Lost Dedications Radio Special:
https://soundcloud.com/anyoods/sets/the-lost-dedications-with-jerry-blavat-and-ben-vaughn

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Post.News:

@JenCrittenden

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 249: Family Circus and Jeff Keane

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 08 Oct 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Join us as we welcome Jeff Keane, the current cartoonist of Family Circus, the incredibly successful one-panel cartoon, now over 60 years old and featured in 1500 newspapers worldwide. Jeff talks about the real-life family behind the cartoon; his dad, Bil, the originator of the cartoon; the National Cartoonists Society; humor; creativity; and all kinds of fun things. A wonderful episode with Bill Aho co-hosting.

Where to see the Family Circus cartoons:
https://comicskingdom.com/family-circus/archive

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

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Jennifer on Post.News:

@JenCrittenden

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 248: Animation Resources with Stephen Worth

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Animation Resources is a non-profit with a terrific website where a wealth of creative material awaits you! Members also receive a monthly packet of interesting surprises, both old and new. Director Stephen Worth joins us today to talk about what animation is (very intriguing answers), his background, the origins of Animation Resources, what AI could do for the field, how animation could go so far beyond Disney, and creativity in general. It's a wonderful, thought-provoking episode. With Bill Aho.

Animation Resources website:
https://animationresources.org/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Post.News:

@JenCrittenden

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 247: Books Shows Tunes & Mad Acts with Steve Boyle & Webb Wilder, Last of the Full Grown Men

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 17 Jun 2023 00:39:24 +0000

Steve Boyle and Webb Wilder join us to present a project that has been in the works for decades and will emerge this year, we hope, on a radio near you! In the 1980s, Steve and Webb began working on a neo-noir detective series, riffing on the anti-commercial commercials that they produced for Hard Rock Cafe back in the day. It came from Nashville, first in the form of a proposed TV series, then a script, then a book, then an audiobook, and now a full-fledged radio show. You'll also get to hear the teaser for the show in this fun episode.

The website for the project:
https://webbwilderlastofthefullgrownmen.com/

Webb's website:
https://www.webbwilder.com/

The First Amendment Project that Steve talks about:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-a3rRNYU8m8

The Radio Station Webb talks about and where you can hear Webb in the afternoons:
https://www.wmot.org/program-schedule#weekly-schedule

City Without a Subway, Steve's documentary:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ocsn3yRN0w4

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Post.News:

@JenCrittenden

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 246: Going Analog with David Sax

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 10 Jun 2023 02:11:21 +0000

Join us as author David Sax returns to talk about two books, "The Revenge of Analog" and "The Future Is Analog," one written in 2016 and the recent one written during the pandemic. Jennifer and David talk about the analog / digital aspects of education, work, and housing, as well as delving into teaching, books, humans, and virtual headsets. David's observations are astute, thoughtful, and often funny. Don't miss this fun episode with a lively guest.

This episode is sponsored by: mypostglow.com

David's website: https://saxdavid.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

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Jennifer on Post.News:

@JenCrittenden

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@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 245: Education in Prison with Peter Fulks

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 13:00:00 +0000

Join Peter Fulks, a Cerro Coso Community College professor and a leading faculty in the development of the College's Incarcerated Students Education Program, a national leader in face-to-face higher education in prison. Here he takes us through the goals and results of the program, including the remarkable data regarding recidivism, reduction in violence inside the prisons, closing of prisons, and public safety. He talks about the administrative, bureaucratic, and economic challenges that the program has faced, and how this intrepid group of faculty members has managed to expand the program and win over its skeptics. If you're looking for an uplifting episode about education, this is it.

A link to information about the program:
https://www.cerrocoso.edu/incarcerated-student-education-program

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Post.News:

@JenCrittenden

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@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 244: Rockin' with Jerry Williams, Jr., aka Swamp Dogg

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 01 Apr 2023 01:09:07 +0000

Join us for a rollicking conversation with Swamp Dogg, hard-working soul and R&B singer, who has been performing since the 50s and is still going strong. We chat about his long career, his friendship with John Prine, ambitious projects in the works, including yet another album (!) and an associated movie, along with some wacky tangents into parties with coffins, writing songs while drinking, cremation promo calls, and his intimidating keyboard player. Those who know Swamp Dogg, love him, and you'll see why in this episode. We also get to share Good Better Best, his song about women. With Bill Aho.

Swamp Dogg's website:
https://www.theswampdogg.com/

The YouTube Concert for Sorry You Couldn't Make It:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43eGIdXipJ8

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Post.News:

@JenCrittenden

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 243: Getting Educated with IU Dean Van Kooten

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 03 Feb 2023 20:44:48 +0000

Join Indiana University College of Arts & Sciences Executive Dean Rick Van Kooten for a terrific conversation, ranging from capitalism to fruit flies. In between we talk about what's included in the College and why, Rick's history at the school (being Canadian and all), experimental physics, research funding, and the first uses of the World Wide Web (probably a lot more fun than what you think). We dig deep into the value and cost of a liberal arts education and mull over alternatives in apprenticeships and technical training. We also talk about how real science and "science" has been used during the pandemic. This episode was recorded in Jennifer's hometown of Bloomington, Indiana and at her alma mater, so it was a chance for some nostalgic thoughts about what she studied at IU and her father's work in the Physics Department where Rick also worked and eventually became the chair. A thoughtful and thought-provoking episode.

Rick's bio:
https://college.indiana.edu/about/leadership/rick-van-kooten.html

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 242: Lauren Leigh Martin, San Diego Songbird

Jennifer Crittenden — Wed, 04 Jan 2023 03:09:55 +0000

Join San Diego native Lauren Leigh Martin, as she talks about her singing career and upcoming second album. She talks about her musical influences: her aunt, Eve Selis; her dad, Claudio Martin; her album co-producer, Jeff Berkeley; and her musical partner, Sam Hunt. The past few years have been a challenge, with breakups, the pandemic, motherhood, and mental health, but Lauren has channeled that into her work and pushed herself to expand musically. Lauren discusses the life of a professional musician, including starting with a fall-back plan, financial considerations, touring, and drugs and alcohol. She also reveals the behind-the-scenes story of her singing Pink Floyd's Great Gig in the Sky on tour, opening for Foreigner. A great San Diego episode with Bill Aho.

Lauren's album release party - Jan 4, 2023
https://bellyup.com/calendar/12560515/lauren-leigh-w-eve-selis-omo-cloud-ghost-in-the-picture-album-release-seated-show/

Lauren Leigh's website:
https://www.laurenleighmusic.com/

"Blinding Lights" with Sam Hunt
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=doB8d1ypdqM

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

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Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 241: Thinking Together with Alex Chambers

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 24 Dec 2022 02:05:56 +0000

Podcaster, poet, and educator Alex Chambers and Jennifer talk about—well, a lot of stuff. We start with "Inner States," Alex's radio show on WFIU from Bloomington, Indiana and chat about people's misconceptions about the Midwest and the Fly-Over states. We talk about how people and sounds form our impressions about a place, sometimes correctly and sometimes incorrectly. Jennifer whines about bad training programs, and Alex offers some advice about good teaching. He contrasts poetry and podcasting and what he likes about each medium. He also reads a great poem about Buffy the Vampire Slayer! A wonderful episode about learning and understanding.

Alex's Show "Inner States"
https://www.npr.org/podcasts/1071403082/w-f-i-u-inner-states

Alex's podcast "How to Survive the Future"
https://indianahumanities.org/future/

Alex's book of poetry, "Binding: A Preparation"
https://www.ledgemulepress.org/releases/binding-a-preparation-by-alex-chambers

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 240: On the Trail of the Jackalope with Michael Branch

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 13:00:00 +0000

Author and humorist Michael Branch joins us to talk about his new book, "On the Trail of the Jackalope: How a Legend Captured the World's Imagination and Helped Us Cure Cancer." He delves into the storied history of the mythological creature, often memorialized as a tongue-in-cheek hunting trophy, as well as its association with the American West, tall tales, and Wall Drug. He explains the phenomenon of the very real horned rabbits and how scientists, building on the work of virologist Richard Shope, used those cancerous growths on rabbits to develop the HPV vaccine. Mike also reports on his experience at a taxidermy workshop in, of all places, San Francisco. We muse about why people love the Jackalope, its importance in the historical and cultural landscape of the United States, and why things that fire up our imagination matter. Mike is a wonderful storyteller; you don't want to miss this episode.

Mike's website:
https://michaelbranchwriter.com/

The Okey Dokey Brothers' song that we discuss:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bPLtMrGchfA

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

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Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 239: How Exercise Helps Your Brain with Dr. Christiane Wrann

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 02 Dec 2022 13:00:00 +0000

Dr. Christiane Wrann, researcher at MGH and associate professor at Harvard, has published some exciting new discoveries about the effect of exercise on the brain, potentially slowing cognitive decline and in some cases even reversing brain deterioration. She takes us through her work in mouse models, how her lab selects and "exercises" the mice, how cognitive decline is measured in mice, and the role of irisin, a hormone that appears to be linked to exercise and brain health. In everyday language, she explains this scientific research, what its limitations are, and what its potential might be for Alzheimer patients and their families. She also offers practical advice about incorporating exercise into your daily activities, what kind and how much is most beneficial, and ways to make it enjoyable, instead of just another thing to stress out about (although exercise helps reduce stress too!). An essential episode.

Follow Dr. Wrann on Twitter:
@WrannLab

The McCance Center for Brain Health Test Dr. Wrann mentioned:
https://www.massgeneral.org/neurology/mccance-center/clinic/brain-care-score

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

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Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 238: Trina Robbins, Cartoonist, Fashion Designer, and Author

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 22 Nov 2022 00:38:28 +0000

Trina Robbins was memorialized as the first of Joni Mitchell's Ladies of the Canyon with her sketches and second-hand clothes, but, don't be fooled, Trina is a serious archivist of feminist art history. She drew for underground newspapers during the Women's Lib movement of the sixties and has published multiple anthologies of early women in comics. In this episode, we discuss many of her books, including her memoir, Last Girl Standing, and the documentary she is featured in, They're Beautiful When They're Angry. And she still loves clothes! So we talk about her favorite era, vintage clothes, and where to find them. Trina was the first woman to draw Wonder Woman, so we talk about her and what it was like to be an early female cartoonist in a man's field. We also discuss the weather and the pros and cons of New York versus California. A really lovely episode. With Bill Aho.

Come find Trina at the San Francisco FanExpo this weekend, Nov 25-27!
https://fanexpohq.com/fanexposanfrancisco/

Trina's memoir:
https://bookshop.org/p/books/last-girl-standing-trina-robbins/12493623?ean=9781683960140

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

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Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 237: The Walking Dead with Oleg Livits

Jennifer Crittenden — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 18:50:16 +0000

Join The Walking Dead co-producer and entrepreneur Oleg Livits to talk about this phenomenal show whose eleventh and final season is airing now. The Walking Dead poses as a zombie show, but it is about so much more: survival, lawlessness, community, morality and death. Based on a comic book series, this record-setting and acclaimed AMC+ series has generated 177 episodes and multiple spinoffs; it also boasts an enormous and engaged fan base. Oleg takes us through the show's history, the commitment of its contributors and stakeholders, and the challenges that arose during the pandemic. We also talk about a new project that he is developing, Friendly Heat, which is a travel docu-series about saunas and their health benefits. Oleg is observant and entertaining—you don't want to miss this episode.

The Walking Dead Wiki that we refer to:
https://walkingdead.fandom.com/wiki/The_Walking_Dead_Wiki

Oleg's Friendly Heat project:
https://vimeo.com/759369294?utm_source=email&utm_medium=vimeo-cliptranscode-201504&utm_campaign=28749

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 236: People from Bloomington with Tiffany Tsao

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 03 Sep 2022 21:16:21 +0000

Translator Tiffany Tsao joins us to discuss her recent project, the first publication in English of Indonesian writer Budi Darma's collection of short stories, "People from Bloomington." So much to talk about with this book! Darma's usual absurdist but very human eye crosses over here into more realistic fiction although readers familiar with Bloomington, Indiana may find the town rather transformed. The collection was originally published only in Indonesian, so Tiffany takes us through her process of capturing his voice in English with the kind of earthy and often very funny tone he used to present the odd Midwesterners. We also talk about cross-cultural writing, especially between east and west, and how book marketers struggle with books that have a truly global perspective, even though they are more reflective of our current world. Darma wrote his dissertation on Jane Austen in Bloomington, and we also chat about his literary influences, as well as his doctoral advisor and longtime Indiana University English professor, Don Gray. A wonderful literary episode.

An upcoming online event to honor Budi Darma:
https://burlingame.libcal.com/event/9407717

Learn more about Tiffany Tsao here:
https://tiffanytsao.com/

Follow Tiffany on Twitter:
@TiffTsao

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 235: Jeff Berkley Is Back!

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 06 Aug 2022 20:59:52 +0000

Jeff Berkley, musician, producer, and go-to guy for all things music in San Diego, talks about the current climate for musicians, as well as the old days at Java Joe's in Poway and Ocean Beach. With many projects in the works, he brings us up to speed on who is doing what in town and his new band "Jeff Berkley and the Banned" (we also feature one of their new songs!). Jennifer, Bill, and Jeff mull over some ideas to promote and enhance the music scene in San Diego, and Jeff brings his customary good humor and pragmatic approach to today's challenges in the music industry. With Bill Aho (he's also back!).

Jeff's website:
https://jeffberkley.com/

Jeff Berkley and the Banned Facebook page:
https://m.facebook.com/JEFFBERKLEYANDTHEBANNED/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 234: Sarah Blake and Her Novel, Clean Air

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 29 Jul 2022 21:00:00 +0000

Poet and novelist Sarah Blake joins us to talk about her new genre-bending novel, Clean Air, a post-apocalyptic narrative centered on one small family and town that (as if they don't have enough to worry about) must cope with a serial killer. It's a fascinating original book about survival, anxiety, and motherhood, but also funny and hopeful. Sarah talks about world-building, her own health experiences, the models for her characters, biology, and writing in general. I loved this interview, and I think you will too.

Sarah's website:
https://sarahblakeauthor.com/

Follow Sarah on Twitter:
@blakesarah

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 233: Vampr with Josh Simons

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 22 Jul 2022 21:29:50 +0000

CEO and co-founder, Josh Simons, joins us to talk about Vampr, the world's premier social network for musicians. Founded by two sympathetic Australian musicians, Josh (of Buchanan) and Baz Palmer (of Hunters & Collectors), Vampr has grown to over one million users and has facilitated over seven million connections. Josh takes us inside the algorithms to explain how like-minded musicians find each other and how the platform matches musicians with those of similar skill levels, in part with a philosophy of quality through quantity. Josh and Jennifer also discuss the challenges of networking (why people hate it), best attitudes for finding useful connections, and how to leverage those connections to build lasting, productive relationships. With Vampr, Josh hopes to accelerate the typical musician's path to "quitting your day job" and doing music full-time, so that young people don't have to endure those typical hard years. No matter how romantic "paying your dues" may sound, it's a barrier for too many, and we all lose out when that talent gets lost. An interesting reflection on the state of music and musicianship today, especially for those just starting out.

More about Vampr,
https://www.vampr.me/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 232: Free Speech with Suzanne Nossel

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 02 Jul 2022 02:18:55 +0000

Something that makes the United States special is our constitutional protection of free speech. CEO of Pen America, Suzanne Nossel, joins us to talk about her new (really great) book, Dare to Speak: Defending Free Speech for All, and important aspects of open discourse in today's political and social context. Suzanne addresses the tension between free speech and equity/inclusion considerations, how to talk about free speech without antagonizing people, and that we shouldn't confuse speech with violence. Her straightforward and well-written book outlines appropriate behavior for speakers, listeners, citizens, and policy makers to preserve our essential protection from government repression. Suzanne further addresses in the podcast how to balance free speech with harassment and misinformation, particularly by government agencies and social media platforms. A quintessentially American episode.

Suzanne's book at bookshop.org
https://bookshop.org/books/dare-to-speak-defending-free-speech-for-all/9780062966049

Follow Suzanne on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/SuzanneNossel

The PEN America website:
https://pen.org/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 231: Levi Vonk and "Border Hacker"

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 24 Jun 2022 21:59:46 +0000

Author and anthropologist Levi Vonk joins us to discuss his book Border Hacker, co-narrated with Axel Kirschner, a fascinating character caught between countries. Guatemalan by birth but raised in Queens, Axel was deported from the US and met up with Levi when they both joined a migrant caravan traveling through Mexico. Border Hacker is the story of their friendship, their adventures in navigating corrupt systems and entanglements, and the cruelty of American immigration policies. The book is fascinating, and Levi offers an unprecedented window into immigration issues, on an individual and global basis. A heartbreaking and heartwarming episode.

The book:
https://www.boldtypebooks.com/titles/levi-vonk/border-hacker/9781645037057/

Levi's website:
https://www.levivonk.com/

Levi on Instagram and Twitter:
https://www.instagram.com/levivonk/
https://twitter.com/vonklevi/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 230: Danny Nielsen and his New Book, Straight Flossin' and Other Stories of the American West

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 18 Jun 2022 02:29:13 +0000

On the occasion of the publication of his new book, join scientist and author, Danny Nielsen, to talk about writing, reading, and other matters. The new book, Straight Flossin' and Other Stories of the American West, is an exploration of desert landscapes and the flora, fauna, and human characters who inhabit them. Danny talks about what motivates him to write and offers advice for how to keep at it and enjoy it, as well as his background growing up in Alabama surrounded by brothers. Danny has an unusual perspective on the world, and we think you will like this episode.

Buy the book! Early bird discount at:
https://www.whistlingrabbitpress.com/product/straight-flossin-and-other-stories-of-the-american-west/

Danny's website:
https://dannynielsen0.wordpress.com/

Follow Danny on Twitter:
@Touching_Grey

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 229: How To Publish Your Book (If You're Not Famous)

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 07 May 2022 23:08:38 +0000

An irreverent, saying-the-quiet-part-out-loud look at the publishing industry from the Big Five of traditional publishers to self-publishing—particularly the financial aspects of your options. We focus on the likelihood of landing a Big Five contract, whether you even want that, and what you can expect from that experience. We talk in depth about the pros and cons of using an Author Services company, including those masquerading as publishers, and predatory practices to watch out for. Jennifer discusses some of the horror stories she's heard over the years and talks about the financial model she uses for her boutique publishing company Whistling Rabbit Press. Practical information you won't get anywhere else.

A related episode: "Publishing versus Podcasting: Either, Neither, or Both"
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/episodes/2020-03-29T05_00_00-07_00

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 228: The Opus of William Stout

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 29 Apr 2022 21:00:00 +0000

Join William Stout, artist and illustrator, with a specialization in paleontological art, to talk about his long career and getting famous slowly. The span of his work is enormous, both in terms of time, from the sixties to now, and across media: murals, posters, record covers, comics, trading cards—and over 70 movies. He is known for bootleg album covers, such as Who's Zoo, and his cover of Firesign Theatre's In the Next World You're On Your Own. His movie work includes the poster for Wizards and design work for the Conan films and Masters of the Universe. His dinosaurs are everywhere: the San Diego Zoo, the San Diego Natural History Museum, many other museums, traveling exhibitions, and books, such as, Ray Bradbury's Dinosaur Tales, The Little Blue Brontosaurus. A terrific and uplifting episode with a hard-working creative individual whose work has touched and influenced many. With co-host Bill Aho.

Some places to see Bill Stout this year:
https://www.comic-con.org/cci
https://www.dragoncon.org/

Bill's website:
https://www.williamstout.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 227: Raising the Roof with The Wild Honey Foundation

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 23 Apr 2022 18:48:26 +0000

Join Paul Rock and David Jenkins of The Wild Honey Foundation, a non-profit that raises money for charitable causes through cultural events, passing on the passion, creativity, and idealism found in music to future generations. Paul and David reminisce about some of their greatest shows going back decades honoring The Lovin' Spoonful, The Kinks, Brian Wilson, Buffalo Springfield, as well as their live renderings of whole albums, such as the Beatles' White Album and the Band's Music from Big Pink. One of their notable causes is autism, and Paul shares some news about the progress of his son who is now communicating through typing. If you're a music fan, a musician, or have ever heard about this thing called music, you'll enjoy the enthusiasm and spirit of this episode.

The Wild Honey Foundation's Facebook Page (where you can find out about upcoming shows):
https://www.facebook.com/groups/WIldhoneyfoundation

Some of The Wild Honey Foundation's shows on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC96qlWKL8rk5wBeX3BS8b7g

A video of Cry Baby Cry featuring Iain Matthews and the great Christine Collister:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IHcpCL8j_zc

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 226: Enlightened with Dan Stalcup - Part 2

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 15 Apr 2022 21:00:00 +0000

Writer and podcaster, Dan Stalcup, is back to talk more about Enlightened, the HBO show about Amy Jellicoe, who returns from rehab determined to change the world. In this second of two episodes, we discuss the larger themes the show wrestles with: capitalism, meaning, and work, while never missing a chance at a funny line. Written by the great Mike White, the show was before its time and did not find a large audience, but we are sure many viewers would enjoy this nuanced, funny, and endearing show. Highly recommended.

Dan's podcast about movies:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-goods-a-film-podcast/id1534000134

Dan's website:
https://earnthis.net/

Dan on Twitter:
@StalcupDan

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 225: Enlightened with Dan Stalcup - Part I

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 09 Apr 2022 01:18:05 +0000

Returning guest, writer and podcaster, Dan Stalcup, is back to talk about the HBO show Enlightened, written and produced by the great Mike White and starring Laura Dern, Luke Wilson, Diane Ladd, Sarah Burns, Timm Sharp and Mike White himself. Laura Dern as Amy returns from rehab to her corporate job, fired up to share her newly-discovered spiritual enlightenment with the world only to discover the world is not quite ready for her. This endearing comedy drama explores the complexity of humans, especially those who are seeking meaning in their small-ish lives, and how their explorations backfire, self-destruct, and embarrass us while also eventually becoming relatable and sympathetic. A heart-warming episode.

Dan's podcast:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-goods-a-film-podcast/id1534000134

Dan's website:
https://earnthis.net/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 224: Nerding Out with Michael Adams about Dictionaries

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 01 Apr 2022 21:00:00 +0000

Join Indiana University English Department Chairman and word nerd Michael Adams to talk about a recent acquisition of an enormous collection of dictionaries and associated material by the Lilly Library. The Kripke Collection is a lexicographer's dream, full of books on slang, pirate terms, erotic language, obscenities, regional terms, as well as ephemera, pamphlets, archival material about making and selling dictionaries, and much more! Michael talks about the history of early dictionaries and the behind-the-scenes drama that arose as passionate experts tangled over words and attribution. We also discuss the politics of dictionaries, how decisions about what is included and how it is defined are made by people (for better or worse), and how dictionaries present a moment in time in a particular cultural context. Michael explains what criteria could be used to evaluate the quality of a professional dictionary and shares his enthusiasm for lay dictionaries and glossaries and how those represent the human engagement and creativity that underlie efforts to share what we know about the words we use. Jennifer tells a story about finding herself creating a Wardaman-English dictionary for an Australian aborigine rock art study. A fun and lively episode.

An article about the acquisition:
https://libraries.indiana.edu/lilly-library/KripkeCollectionAcquired

The bilingual dictionary collection Michael mentioned:
https://collections.libraries.indiana.edu/lilly/exhibitions_legacy/shorttitle/dictionary.html

Some books he recommended:
The Professor and the Madman
https://bookshop.org/books/the-professor-and-the-madman-a-tale-of-murder-insanity-and-the-making-of-the-oxford-english-dictionary/9780060839789
The Making of the Oxford English Dictionary
https://bookshop.org/books/the-making-of-the-oxford-english-dictionary/9780198826163
The Word Detective
https://bookshop.org/books/the-word-detective-searching-for-the-meaning-of-it-all-at-the-oxford-english-dictionary/9781541697218
Word by Word: The Secret Life of Dictionaries
https://bookshop.org/books/word-by-word-the-secret-life-of-dictionaries/9781101970263

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 223: Catching Up with Lisa Sanders

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 25 Mar 2022 23:19:18 +0000

Today we sit down with Lisa Sanders, longtime San Diego musician and recent Hall of Fame inductee, and hear about her many projects, from new songs to furniture making, as well as her long association with other musicians and local venues. She reflects on her long career and the various rabbit holes that have brought her to now. She also provides valuable advice for musicians who are just starting out and shares a beautiful song about love. A quintessential San Diego episode. With co-host Bill Aho.

Lisa's website:
https://lisasanders.com/

Upcoming events:
https://lisasanders.com/lisa-shows

Lisa Sanders & Brown Sugar "Live Above The Chateau Above The Garage" Most Thursdays on Facebook 7 Pacific 9 Central 10 Eastern

https://www.facebook.com/lisa.sanders.942145

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 222: How To Not Be Mad

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 18 Mar 2022 21:00:00 +0000

Life coach and author Corrinn Davis joins us in the midst of the current crisis when so many of us seem to be on edge or full-blown mad, as reflected in road rage and homicide statistics. We talk about how anger can displace other painful emotions, for better or worse, and how it can be redirected in positive ways. We speculate about what we're seeking when we feed on other people's anger. She provides some questions to monitor yourself before you lose control—and for when you've gone off the deep end, like, who benefits when you're angry? Stories, advice, self-coaching techniques and insights make this an essential episode. Let's change the world.

Corrinn's websites:
https://www.citstation.com/
https://calrockranch.org

Corrinn's book:
https://www.whistlingrabbitpress.com/product/useful-questions-a-guide-to-self-coaching/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Jennifer on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

Jennifer on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Discreet Guide Training:

https://training.discreetguide.com/

Episode 221: Reacher: The Book and the Series

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 12 Mar 2022 02:38:06 +0000

English writer, classics teacher, and former police officer, Mark Knowles, joins us to talk about Reacher, the Amazon series; Killing Floor, the book it's based on; and its British author Lee Child. We analyze what's the same or different between the show and the book, what we like about Reacher, and how he resembles a classic Homeric hero. We also talk about stuff that got changed in the show and whether or not we approve (like the thing with the dog and some woke additions), plus some challenges inherent to transferring a monosyllabic loner to the screen. Spoilers! A fun episode with a fun guest.

Mark's website
https://www.markknowles.info/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Follow the host on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Episode 220: Getting Creative with Curio and Co

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 04 Mar 2022 23:23:40 +0000

Welcome to the world of Curio and Co where founders, Cesare Asaro and Kirstie Shepherd use their flair for nostalgic design to create souvenirs from a past you wish had existed. They join us from Vienna to talk about the sense of playfulness their creations spark, as well as the research, analysis, and plain old work required to make design elements that hit the mark. They talk about being development partners, as well as work they find inspirational like that of James Gunn, or Oceans 11, or Peanuts. A joyful episode. With co-host Bill Aho.

Curio and Co's website (this is *really* worth a visit):
https://curioandco.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Follow the host on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Episode 219: Understanding Cast Iron with Ned Adams

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 25 Feb 2022 22:52:18 +0000

The Dutch Oven Daddy, Ned Adams, joins us to talk about all things cast iron: what it's good for, how to evaluate it, how to maintain it (especially the secrets of proper seasoning), and how to bring it back from a rusted state, using science! Ned also talks about his personal journey with cast iron, what got him started with it and its meaning to him today, as well as where to find the cast iron community of cooks and collectors. A lovely wide-ranging conversation about tradition, families, food, and chemistry.

The Dutch Oven Daddy website (don't miss the photos of the e-tank!):
https://www.dutchovendaddy.com/

Where to buy Buzzywaxx to season your cast iron:
https://buzzywaxx.com/

One of the Facebook groups Ned mentioned:
https://www.facebook.com/CastIronCommunityCIC/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Follow the host on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Episode 218: Eleni Austin, Music Reviewer and Walking Encyclopedia

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 18 Feb 2022 23:07:15 +0000

After working in record stores for over 30 years, Eleni has heard it all—and knows a lot! She shares her approach to providing information to those in need and to writing music reviews that can help a searcher find music they love. Raised in a large Greek family and exposed to a wide variety of music, Eleni moved to the desert as a teenager and began her career in music retail. Here she regales us with stories of bands, Elvis Costello, producers, and customers, as well as providing many recommendations. We throw in a rant or two. With co-host Bill Aho.

Read Eleni in the Coachella Valley Weekly:
https://coachellavalleyweekly.com/category/music/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Follow the host on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Episode 217: Ray Bradbury and The Center for Ray Bradbury Studies

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 12 Feb 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Join Professor Jason Aukerman, Director of the Center for Ray Bradbury Studies, to learn about Bradbury's life and work, the creation of the center, and surprising discoveries in the archives. We discuss Fahrenheit 451 in which Bradbury cautioned us about the danger of mass media and censorship, topics even more relevant today. Jason discusses his approach to teaching writing and Bradbury's literary strengths, as well as the role of an archivist in protecting and evaluating a lifetime of work. We conclude with a bio of Bradbury and a reminder about the McCarthy era. A great episode for writers and readers.

The Center for Ray Bradbury Studies, including the Virtual Tour we discuss, a timeline of Bradbury's life, and where you can sign up for the newsletter:
https://bradbury.iupui.edu/

The link to donate to the Center:
https://bradbury.iupui.edu/top-level-menu-folder/support-us.php

Follow the Center on Twitter:
@BradburyCenter

One interesting interview with Ray Bradbury:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tTXckvj7KL4

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Follow the host on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Episode 216: Reflections with Amy Rigby

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 05 Feb 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Singer/songwriter, blogger, and memoirist Amy Rigby joins us today for a wise and fun conversation about her 30-year career, including her CBGB days, having Ronnie Spector feature one of her songs, meeting Wreckless Eric, writing her memoir, and work during the pandemic. Known for her clever, funny, and sometimes vengeful lyrics, Amy is beloved by her fans (including Jennifer's mom!) for her insights into everyday living and surviving. This conversation is no exception with Amy reflecting on legacy, mortality, murder and tea towels. An unforgettable episode. With co-host Bill Aho.

Amy's website:
https://www.amyrigby.com/

Amy's blog:
https://diaryofamyrigby.wordpress.com/

Amy on Bandcamp:
https://theamyrigby.bandcamp.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Follow the host on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Episode 215: Paddington Bear and Michael Bond

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 29 Jan 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Join author Rosanne Tolin to discuss her book More Than Marmalade, the only biography of Michael Bond, the author of the beloved Paddington stories. Did you know Paddington was inspired by the Kindertransport refugees fleeing Germany and arriving in London with just a suitcase and a name tag? Bond, a dropout, worked for the BBC and as a struggling writer for many years before finally finding success with Paddington, a story concept suggested by his literary agent. Rosanne talks about her research, Bond's life and work, and offers advice about writing for the middle grades. A great episode for Paddington fans and writers.

Where to buy the book:
https://www.chicagoreviewpress.com/more-than-marmalade-products-9781641603140.php?page_id=21

Rosanne's website:
https://www.rosannetolin.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Follow the host on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Episode 214: Hanging Out with Ben Vaughn

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 22:14:00 +0000

Join singer/songwriter, musician, producer, composer and radio host Ben Vaughn talking about his many hats, how he got started in music and his gypsy career. In a wide-ranging, informal, and fun discussion, he describes doing a sound check in two different Ramblers (yes, the car) to pick the right one, getting a gun pulled on him in the producer's booth, his love for Mickey Lee Lane's Shaggy Dog, growing up listening to The Geator with the Heater, and the importance of always learning. We also share a fabulous version of Too Sensitive for this World. With co-host Bill Aho.

Ben's website:
http://benvaughn.org/

The movie about recording Rambler '65 in his car:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h45s7PsWreU

Ben's weekly radio program:
https://xpn.org/xpn-programs/many-moods-ben-vaughn (or listen through Apple podcasts!)

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Follow the host on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Episode 213: Belle Gunness: Getting Away with Murder

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 14 Jan 2022 22:29:32 +0000

A Norwegian pig farmer may not sound like a femme fatale, but Belle Gunness lured dozens of men to their death and became Indiana's most notorious serial killer. Author and researcher Jane Simon Ammeson joins us to discuss her new book about Belle, including the latest discoveries about her gruesome deeds and mysterious disappearance. A creepy but fascinating episode.

Jane's websites:
https://janeammeson.com/
https://shelflife.blog/jane-simon-ammeson/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Follow the host on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Episode 212: Rogue Dogs and their Wildlife Detection Work

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 07 Jan 2022 22:00:23 +0000

Join Jennifer Hartman, director of Rogue Detection Teams, to talk about using rescue dogs in scientific work to locate and analyze threatened animal species. We cover dog selection and training (though the dog bounders are often learning as much from the dogs), the physical requirements of the work, what can be learned now through DNA analysis of animal scat, the benefits of using dogs in a non-invasive way, and the challenges posed by long solo trips into rugged wilderness. Specifically, we talk about the project in the Eastern Sierra to learn about the elusive Sierra Nevada red fox, and the lone Nevada individual who traveled from the Great Basin join his buddies in the Eastern Sierra. I loved this interview, and I think you will too.

More about Rogue Dogs:
https://roguedogs.org/
https://www.facebook.com/roguedogs/
https://www.instagram.com/roguedetectionteams/
https://twitter.com/roguedetection
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCij7s9rwMGma9GS_rp3rbZw?view_as=subscriber

Contact Jennifer at contact@roguedogs.org

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

Support us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Follow the host on Twitter:

@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Episode 211: Consequential Strangers with Melinda Blau

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 01 Jan 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Join relationship expert Melinda Blau while she discusses her book about the importance of acquaintances and weak ties in building networks, expanding our boundaries, and just making us feel better. With specific examples and tactical advice about how to initiate a conversation, nurture a relationship, and let it go, she gives us food for thought for the new year. She also presents the science of casual connections and explains their surprising impact, as well as what we are learning about internet relationships. A wonderful uplifting episode.

Melinda's book co-written with psychologist Karen Fingerman:
https://melindablau.com/books/consequential-strangers/

Melinda's website:
https://melindablau.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

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Episode 210: Christmas Music: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 24 Dec 2021 22:06:30 +0000

Christmas music seems to be unstoppable with new songs and albums coming out every year, so Bill and Jennifer have a lot to talk about from traditional, classic tunes, whether they're overplayed and fall out of fashion; to innovative covers; to novelty and funny songs, new and old; to caroling and kids' TV shows; to artists who unexpectedly turn in an awesome song; and those we'd rather forget, especially if they included their kids on the recording. Whether Christmas is a happy or sad time for you, we've got recommendations. With co-host Bill Aho.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

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Music we discuss:
Bestselling: Elvis, Bing Crosby, Nat King Cole, Kenny G, Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, Barbra Streisand, Pentatonix
New: Norah Jones
Funny: Bummed Out Christmas (Christmas in Jail), Masked Christmas
Novelty: Snoopy's Christmas, All I Want for Christmas, Nuttin for Christmas (Barry Gordon), Jingle Bells by the Singing Dogs, Christmas Don't Be Late by the Chipmunks, Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer, Rudolph the Redneck Reindeer (Joe Diffie), 12 Days of Christmas (McKenzie Bros), Dominick the Donkey, Santa & the Satellite
Compilations: Maybe this Christmas, A Very Special Christmas, Celtic Christmas, Billboard Christmas
Misc: John Prine: Christmas in Hawaii, Tom Petty: Christmas All Over Again; Natalie Merchant: Children Go Where I Send Thee; Sheryl Crow: Blue Christmas; Asleep at the Wheel: Swingin' Drummer Boy; Dolly Parton: Hard Candy Christmas; Jack Johnson: Rudolph, Mellencamp: I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus, Lisa Loeb: Jingle Bells; Rilo Kiley: Xmas Cake
Controversial: Baby It's Cold Outside, I Saw Daddy Kissing Santa Claus
Classics: Chuck Berry: Merry Christmas, Baby, The Christmas Song, I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas, Winter Wonderland, What Are You Doing New Year's Eve, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer; Santa Claus Is Coming to Town, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Let It Snow
New: Kelly Clarkson: Christmas isn’t Cancelled, Just You; Carly Rae Jepsin: It’s Not Christmas Til Somebody Cries
TV Specials: Peanuts Christmas, Rudolph, The Grinch, Rankin/Bass
Albums: Ella Fitzgerald, Lee Ann Womack's A Season for Romance, Jazz: Fourplay's Snowbound, Boney James, Sarah McLachlan's Wintersong; Shawn Colvin's Holiday Songs & Lullabies, Chris Isaak
Videos: Carla Williams & Billy Dean: Merry Xmas Darling; Shawn Mendes & Camila Cabello: The Christmas Song' Elton John and Ed Sheeran: Merry Christmas; Meghan Trainor w/ Earth Wind & Fire: Holidays
New: Amanda Shire's I Want You Gone for Christmas; Leona Lewis: One More Sleep; Steve Wariner: Feels Like Christmas Time
RamsesThePigeon: Where Is the Comma in "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen" Supposed to Go?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sxfxy-3dGz0

Episode 209: Michael Nesmith: We'll Remember You

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 18 Dec 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Michael Nesmith, the cap-wearing Monkee, passed away last week. Jennifer and Bill talk about Michael's life and legacy in depth, from fleeing Texas to landing in the concoction that was the Monkees, and then moving on to myriad projects in music, video, and prose, often with instincts before his time. Productive, thoughtful, with a playful side, he has left us a big legacy of gifts that keep on giving. An episode for music and music video fans. With co-host Bill Aho.

Michael's website that we mention:
https://www.videoranch3d.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

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@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Episode 208: Vinyl!

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 11 Dec 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Jon Teichman and Geoff Walker join Bill and Jennifer to talk about the allure and resilience of vinyl LP records. Jon and Geoff are experts about vinyl and organize the multi-day and multi-city Ore Dock Record Show which features 10,000 LPs and thousands of visitors from around the world. Here they talk about sound quality, equipment, bootlegs, what people are buying, music communities, and more. They tell wonderful stories of found treasures and how music works like a time machine. You don't want to miss this heart-warming episode. With co-host Bill Aho.

Follow Geoff on Instagram: @MichiganRecords
Follow Jon on Instagram: @Emporiumfeaturingvintagevinyl

Jon's store in Marquette, MI: Emporium Featuring Vintage Vinyl, 317 W. Washington St

Ore Dock Record Show: March 24-27, 2022 in Marquette, Michigan

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

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@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:

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Episode 207: LuLaRoe with LolaGeek

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 04 Dec 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Join LolaGeek, a former sales consultant for LuLaRoe, for the lowdown on that business and other multi-level marketing schemes. Get the insider's view on how LuLaRoe, a billion-dollar direct sales clothing company, recruited, targeted stay-at-home moms, manipulated its messaging, enriched its founders and impoverished its workers, and ultimately became the subject of multiple lawsuits. An eye-opening tale about a pyramid scheme in lamb's clothing.

Follow LolaGeek on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/c/LolaGeek/featured

LuLaRich, the documentary we discuss:
https://www.amazon.com/LuLaRich-Season-1/dp/B09CFXPNSX

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

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@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:

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Episode 206: The Wild World of Music Promotion with Elliot Kendall

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 27 Nov 2021 06:00:00 +0000

A galloping mile-a-minute ride through the career of Elliot Kendall, from his early days as a struggling musician in the Bay Area to waiter days in LA, his dream job as the Catalog Guy at Universal for 13 years, and now his constant reinvention. What fuels him? What's happening today with music promotion? How do we find good music? Does radio matter? Elliot answers these questions and many more. A lively and entertaining episode. With co-host Bill Aho.

Find Elliot on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliot-kendall-a3476563/

Podcast episode Elliot refers to with Howard Bloom:
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/episodes/2020-06-02T05_00_01-07_00

Radio Station Jennifer refers to, KSRW 92.5 Sierra Wave:
https://sierrawave.net/ksrw-925-radio-program-guide/alt-92-5_wave/

Musicians Jennifer refers to:
Andrew Bird: https://www.andrewbird.net/
El Vy (mispronounced their name on the show, sorry about that): http://www.elvy.co/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

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@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Episode 205: Myths about Poverty with Mark Rank

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 20 Nov 2021 09:00:00 +0000

Join social scientist and poverty expert Mark Rank to discuss his recent book, "Poorly Understood: What America Gets Wrong about Poverty," and common misconceptions about being poor in the US. He explains that not only do many millions find themselves in poverty today, the risk of YOU finding yourself in poverty at some point during your life is surprisingly high. We consider poverty statistics, policies, the economic cost of poverty, and why it—and the myths around it—persists. An accessible and eye-opening episode.

The website Mark refers to:
https://confrontingpoverty.org/

Mark's book:
https://bookshop.org/books/poorly-understood-what-america-gets-wrong-about-poverty/9780190881382

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:

https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-books-shows-tunes-mad-acts/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/books-shows-tunes-mad-acts

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@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Episode 204: Prankster Alan Abel

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 13 Nov 2021 09:00:00 +0000

Join Jenny and Jeanne Abel as they discuss the life work of hoaxer Alan Abel, the genius behind such pranks as The Society for Indecency to Nude Animals, the fainting incident on Phil Donahue, presidential candidate Yetta Bronstein, Omar's School for Beggars, and mockumentaries, such as Is There Sex After Death. Daughter Jenny and wife Jeanne describe Alan's early career and progression into comedy, as well as the documentary Abel Raises Cain, which Jenny created with Jeff Hockett and which won many film festival awards.

Link to the documentary:
https://abelraisescain.com/abel_raises_cain_movie.htm

Where to buy Alan's books, including How to Thrive on Rejection:
https://abelraisescain.com/alan_abel_books_records_films.htm

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)

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@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Episode 203: Music with the Michiganders

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 07 Nov 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Music with the Michiganders

Jennifer, Bill, and Doug discuss their first memories of music and early influences that turned them into giant life-long music fans, starting with bubblegum music and novelty songs. They talk about the importance of friends, a band’s covers, and passion versus production. They also celebrate the breakdown of musical genres and the many ways to access and discover music now, even if we have to work a little harder to discover and share music now. They also make some recommendations you don’t want to miss.

Follow the host on Twitter: @DiscreetGuide

The playlist:

The Doors: Light My Fire

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cq8k-ZbsXDI

Chuck Berry: My Ding-A-Ling

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tr-YF_dTTZM

Lena Lovich: I Think We’re Alone Now

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJRGdQSvwjU

Popcorn:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjxNnqTcHhg&t=37s

Bo Donaldson and the Heywoods: Billy, Don’t Be a Hero

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qndq4pYqgk8

Lemonheads: Mrs. Robinson

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zvMFm5nKeUc

Who: Summertime Blues

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kC4S13jcki4

Mose Allison: Young Man Blues

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bpTSVy3yzts

The Rolling Stones: Jumpin’ Jack Flash

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-JDB_K6s_Y

The Clash: I Fought the Law

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHC2Mnf_HXo

Grateful Dead: Uncle John’s Band

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yD1naKNQuF4

Talking Heads: Take Me to the River

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3RHZEzVUBPk

Talking Heads: Crosseyed and Painless

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gyDb4szpWmc

Nirvana: The Man Who Sold the World

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iz3tmYDl6XI

Dire Straits: Sultans of Swing

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fAQhSRLQnM

Tracy Chapman: Fast Car

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwrHwZyFN7M

Tina Turner: What’s Love Got to Do with It

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OpUt4gmEYaU

Ink Spots: If I Didn’t Care

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rvwfLe6sLis

Replacements: If Only You Were Lonely (demo)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JxN1q09knqo

Todd Rundgren: Bang on the Drum All Day

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7Tcggo45TQ

Recommendations:

Abbey Road Remastered 2019 on Vinyl

https://www.discogs.com/release/14183308-The-Beatles-Abbey-Road

McCartney 3,2,1 Documentary on Hulu

https://www.hulu.com/series/mccartney-3-2-1-e168480d-849e-4f2d-aaf2-a5276723d68d

Episode 202: Announcement of Name Change for the Show

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 01 Jan 2021 02:44:32 +0000

Happy New Year, everybody. Ta-da! The new show will be called "Books, Shows, Tunes & Mad Acts." It will be classified on Podomatic under Art: Books, but if you have trouble finding it, write me at jennifer@discreetguide.com or catch me on Twitter @DiscreetGuide, and we'll hook you up. See you on the other side!

Episode 201: How to Make IT—and Work in General—Better

Jennifer Crittenden — Wed, 30 Dec 2020 03:17:59 +0000

Nick Brown is back! Former IT guy and now psychologist, Nick talks about some counter-intuitive policy changes for improving the efficiency and lowering costs of IT, by actually making users happier. It's a recognition of the importance of treating co-workers as humans instead of enemies, and an argument for a new way of thinking. This is a great episode to end our run with, as we have been moving toward these ideas over our last 200 episodes. We will have a new show in 2021, with a new format and focus. Tune in on New Year's Eve for more information and the new name of the show. And thanks for listening!

Follow Nick on Twitter:
@sTeamTraen

Our previous episode with Nick about debunking psych studies:
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide/episodes/2019-11-26T10_05_55-08_00

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide

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@DiscreetGuide

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

A Wolf at the Schoolhouse Door

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 17 Nov 2020 03:10:11 +0000

Upon the launch of their new book, Jack Schneider and Jennifer Berkshire, join us to talk about what forces have been at work undermining public education in the US. We talk about public funding of religious schools, edupreneurs intent on pocketing tax monies, and edu-marketing, especially of online schools--all ways of diverting money away from traditional public schools--and the growing gap between privileged and disadvantaged students. We also discuss curriculum decisions and why parents might not be the best at recognizing education as a public good, but how our common desire for an excellent education for our children could be just the thing to reunite the country post-election. A lively and accessible episode.

Jack and Jennifer's book:
https://thenewpress.com/books/wolf-schoolhouse-door

Their podcast "Have You Heard"
https://www.wolfattheschoolhousedoor.com/podcast

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
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@DiscreetGuide

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Was Robert Ludlum Consumed by his Own Brand?

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 15 Nov 2020 13:00:00 +0000

The Hades Factor, a bad-guys-with-a-virus story, was written by Gayle Lynds based on a treatment by Ludlum and published in 2000 shortly before his death. Ludlum wrote 21 books on his own, but his brand marches on, having produced another 26 books after his death, including 13 of the Bourne series. His decline after heart surgery and the death of his beloved longtime first wife was accelerated by an unhappy second marriage and a terrifying and mysterious house fire from which he never recovered. His literary legacy is preserved by his devoted fans, but his brand has become a larger-than-life cash cow, spawning books, movies, squabbles over money, and a sordid death or two.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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Teacher Pay for Performance

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 10 Nov 2020 13:00:00 +0000

University of Virginia professor and director of EdPolicyWorks Jim Wycoff joins us to discuss efforts to tie teacher pay to performance. Following on research about teacher effectiveness, especially in low-performing schools, Jim reviews programs in New York and Washington DC that emphasized teacher evaluation and rewarded high performance with significant financial compensation. He explains how some of those lessons learned, including discussions with teacher unions, can be transported to other districts and reviews what factors contributed to their success (some may surprise you!). Some valuable takeaways here for policy makers and parents in this accessible and uplifting episode.

The EdPolicyWorks website:
https://curry.virginia.edu/faculty-research/centers-labs-projects/edpolicyworks

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
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All About Charter Schools

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 03 Nov 2020 13:00:00 +0000

Education researcher and Indiana University professor Chris Lubienski joins us to talk about what charter schools are, how they were and are created, what their promise was, how they are marketed in the US and abroad, and what the research shows about their effectiveness, especially in Indiana where the state has encouraged their formation in the name of school choice. Chris discusses Horace Mann's ideas about a Common School and how that has played out in the modern era, as well as data regarding segregation and the achievement gap. An accessible and clear-eyed episode about a controversial topic.

The resource Chris mentions:
https://nepc.colorado.edu/

Follow Chris on Twitter:
@CLub_edu

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide

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The Great Believers: A Great Book

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 01 Nov 2020 13:00:00 +0000

Rebecca Makkai's 2018 book The Great Believers was a finalist for the National Book Award and the Pulitzer Prize in fiction, for good reasons. It is two stories, one about the AIDS epidemic moving through a gay community in Chicago in the 80s and another of a mother searching for her daughter in Paris in 2015. The book is about death and grief, but that means it's also about love and life, and so invigorating and a reminder of how to live, now, when we are lucky enough to be here at the same time and in the same place as our loved ones. With the election bearing down upon us, enjoy the episode and hope that the center does hold.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
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Samuel Paty: A Teacher Killed for Doing his Job

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 27 Oct 2020 12:00:00 +0000

On October 16, 2020, a French history teacher was beheaded by an Islamic terrorist while walking home from school. Controversy had arisen around the teacher when he used several satirical cartoons depicting Muhammad earlier in the month in a section on free speech. Demonstrations and tributes have followed, as well as aggressive action by French authorities to identify all those involved and shut down radical Islamic organizations. That, and strong words by Macron, have been decried as Islamophobia, along with calls for a boycott of French goods. We unravel this tragic story and pay homage to the legacy of this dedicated teacher. An important episode in the series on education and teaching. #JeSuisProf

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
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The Red Lotus and the Joy of Editing

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 25 Oct 2020 12:00:00 +0000

We review a virus-related thriller published in March 2020 and written by Chris Bohjalian. A beautiful cover and an intriguing beginning set in Vietnam sadly lose their momentum in this thriller which suffers from minimal character development, a weak climax, and sloppy writing, perhaps because of hurried writing. We check in on reviews from the NYT Review of Books (loved it!) and the Amazon crowd (some, not so much). We engage in an editing exercise to see how to strengthen, clarify, and tighten a paragraph, and we also tell a story about trying to trap a rat. A good episode for writers and editors.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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School Assessments: A Rigorous Look

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 20 Oct 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Indiana University education professor David Rutkowski joins us to talk about school assessment tools and outcomes inside the state of Indiana, across US states, and internationally, with lots of surprises. Going beyond the headlines and politics, results may not be what you think. David explains why schools are more than their assessments and why it's important for us to be smart about these measurements. We also touch on school finance and racial deviations, and Jennifer talks about her experience going to a Parisian lycée in the eighth grade. An accessible episode about an essential national topic.

To find out more about David's and his colleagues' work:
https://embracingheterogeneity.com/bio/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
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The End of October by Lawrence Wright

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 18 Oct 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Published in April 2020, the book has been acclaimed for its ability to predict what would happen during a pandemic. Well, kinda, Wright got some things right, but Covid-19 is not nearly the apocalypse that he predicted. More problematic is the organization and editing of the book; the raw material for an interesting product is there, but it doesn't hang together as a novel: long educational sections about viruses, epidemics, laboratories are roughly spliced into personal drama. We speculate here about how that happened, along with other reviewers, including Roxane Gay. A timely book and review as part of our Literary Sunday series.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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Teacher Supply, Qualifications, Impact and Pay

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 13 Oct 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Labor economist Dan Goldhaber joins us to talk about research findings regarding teacher scarcity and the correlations between teacher qualifications and their measurable impact on student learning. He explains how typical pay schedules reward or ignore teacher characteristics that seem to be related to student gains. He also discusses some research about non-credentialed teachers who come from programs like Teach for America. Another in our series about education and teaching, this is an eye-opening episode about a misunderstood topic.

The research centers about education that Dan mentions:
http://cedr.us/index.html
https://caldercenter.org/

Follow Dan and Cedr on Twitter:
@CEDR_US

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide

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@DiscreetGuide

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

The Book of M or Good Writing Is Hard

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 11 Oct 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Peng Shepherd's first book, The Book of M, received some accolades when it was published in 2018 though it doesn't quite fit in the post-apocalyptic genre and creeps over into fantasy. We take a critical look, along with other reviewers, at what makes this story intriguing but how ultimately the writing doesn't live up to the tantalizing premise that losing your shadow means losing your memories. We discuss the impact of flawed writing on the reader and the importance of detailed editing and word-by-word analysis in producing a high quality work. A literary Sunday episode which explores the nuts and bolts of good writing.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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Public School District Financing

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 06 Oct 2020 12:00:00 +0000

USC School of Ed professor Larry Picus talks us through the nuts and bolts of local, state, and federal financing of school districts in California, including Prop 13, school bonds, and this year's Prop 15. He explains how districts are equalized, adjusted for special student populations, how differences persist, and compares other states' systems. We also talk about how money is generally spent (some surprises there) and what it tells you about education quality. Larry also offers some observations about teaching as a career and finding a home district. This practical and informative episode is the third in our series about education and teaching. An accessible and critical episode.

Larry's website:
https://picusodden.com/lawrence-picus/

Find Larry at the Rossier school:
https://rossieronline.usc.edu/about/our-faculty/profile/larry-picus/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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A Couple of Contagions

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 04 Oct 2020 20:20:17 +0000

We discuss both Contagions, one, a medical thriller by Robin Cook, that turns out to have nothing to do with the 2011 Steven Soderburgh movie with the same title that continues to freak people out today. We learn about the careers of both creators and how these two works have stood the test of time, especially the movie seen through today's experienced and knowledgeable Covid-19 lens. We also talk about Soderburgh's other movies, especially Sex, Lies and Videotape, a forerunner in the independent movie era. We touch on this month's Atlantic Monthly article "How the Virus Won."

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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Teaching with Doug McKee

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 29 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

We take on the toughest topics in teaching today with Doug McKee who teaches or has taught economics at Cornell and Yale: what makes a good teacher, teaching like a scholar, what good are grades, why we love our teachers, are students now worse than they used to be, avoiding burnout, why use group work, and recent research findings about effective online teaching. This is the second in our series on education and teaching. Don't miss this one.

Doug's website/blog/podcast:
https://teachbetter.co/

Find Doug on Twitter:
@TeachBetterCo

Econ Stuff on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8I_tVy_9O1Yo7lG0FrGcYQ/videos

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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Greg Bear: Blood Music and Darwin's Radio

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 27 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

American sci fi writer Greg Bear has written over 50 books during a career that has spanned 50 years. Blood Music was an early prize-winning novel about an infection caused by nanotechnology which took over reality. Published 15 years later, Darwin's Radio explored the notion of a prehistoric retrovirus that spread around the globe and caused evolution to take a giant step forward. We explore the two novels, Bear's career, and his thoughts about writing, science fiction, and current events. An interesting episode about how readers react to these two novels, particularly the differences in the writing and plot pacing.

Greg's website:
https://www.gregbear.com/index.php

Greg's Tedx talk we mention:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u902ckKXNMI

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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Schoolhouse Burning: Public Education with Derek Black

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 22 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Law professor and public education policy expert Derek Black joins us to talk about his new book "Schoolhouse Burning: Public Education and the Assault on American Democracy." In this informal but profound discussion, we review how the country's founding fathers and early government documents linked public education to the survival of the new democracy and where we have arrived today with public school funding, vouchers, and charter schools. From Betsy DeVos's promotion of religious schools to small-government advocates and libertarians' desire for choice, public education has been under attack during the past decade while recent years have also seen large demonstrations in support of teachers, bringing the nation's commitment to public education to a critical juncture, accentuated by the pandemic. This critical episode is the first in our new series about education and teaching.

Derek's new book:
https://www.publicaffairsbooks.com/titles/derek-w-black/schoolhouse-burning/9781541788442/

Derek's Ted Talk he mentions:
https://www.ted.com/talks/derek_black_a_well_informed_citizenry_fact_vs_fiction_in_american_media_then_and_now

Follow Derek on Twitter:
@DerekWBlack

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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Have Mercy on Us All by Fred Vargas

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 21 Sep 2020 00:00:44 +0000

A modern-day town crier gets some ominous messages to read about impending pestilence in Paris while mysterious backwards 4s begin appearing on doors. The 2001 policier by French crime novelist Fred Vargas was translated into English by David Bellos and adapted into a movie by Régis Wargnier. Colorful characters, understated humor, and the complexity of Chief Inspector Adamsberg come through in the translation, not so much in the movie — although it still holds up as a competent urban thriller. A sophisticated who-dun-it with a twist of plague.

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https://www.discreetguide.com/

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San Diego Musician and Producer Jeff Berkley

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 15 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

San Diego native, percussionist, guitarist, and producer Jeff Berkley talks about his musical evolution, his band Berkley Hart, song writing, record production, and why we keep coming back to acoustic music. Most unusually, he relays the nuts and bolts of making a living as a professional musician and shares some occasions when things they thought would be funny on stage didn't quite work out. He also talks about the power of music and what a live performance can do. A fun and intimate episode with a pro.

Jeff's website:
https://jeffberkley.com/

The Facebook Live event we talk about:
https://www.facebook.com/berkleyhart/videos/352669735914142

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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Colson Whitehead's Zone One

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 13 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

In this zombie-apocalypse novel, literary novelist and dyed-in-the-wool New Yorker Colson Whitehead imagines three days in the life of a "sweeper," a civilian who works as part of an operation to clear NYC of zombies so it can be re-inhabited. The story is imaginative and exciting (after the first day), and the writing is expressive, arresting, cynical, and amusing. Whether you love or hate zombie stories, this is an enjoyable read. The 19th in our Literary Sunday episodes during the pandemic.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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Up, Up and Away: The Angel Flight Book Launch

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 11 Sep 2020 16:28:57 +0000

Robin Kardon, author of "Angel Flight," the new second novel in the Flygirl trilogy, joins us to talk about love and work in the life of an ambitious female pilot who is trying to succeed in a male-dominated environment. The fast-moving story finds Tris falling for a handsome captain with a mysterious past who she then discovers is competing with her for a promotion. We talk about romance at work, mental health issues among pilots, planning for death, and drama in the air, with a nod to 9/11. With help from our audience, we also offer some advice for these times: always think ahead of your airplane, and don't judge people at their worst. A timely episode about an exciting story.

The episode with Robin about the first book:
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide/episodes/2020-06-05T05_00_00-07_00

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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How Rules and Laws Pervert Salary Negotiations

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 08 Sep 2020 20:04:27 +0000

The correct starting place to negotiate the base salary for a position is its value on the open market. Happily, that information is now usually available. Unhappily, certain laws and corporate policies have been advanced that work against open dialogue and fair negotiation. For example, California's law prohibiting companies from asking for salary history ends up exaggerating the gender pay gap, something it allegedly was designed to combat. Further, company policies which place a cap on salary increases for internal candidates openly reinforce any historical pay inequities. And companies which proclaim they don't negotiate salaries -- well, what can we say except, that's a lie. A clear-minded important episode about salaries.

A related episode about "How To Make More Money"
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide/episodes/2019-06-11T10_12_48-07_00

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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Thomas Mann and the Magic Mountain

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 06 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Mann began his novel The Magic Mountain with the intention of exploring comedic elements broached by Death in Venice, but World War I intervened which distracted him into writing about German culture and nationalism. When he returned to the novel, his attitudes had changed, and so the novel is Bildungsroman mixed up with a bunch of philosophical and mythological characters and ideas. The setting is a sanatorium in Switzerland, which also happened to be visited by the Manns, where our young hero discovers he might have a touch of TB and ends up staying for seven years. It gives us an excuse to talk briefly about tuberculosis but mostly to explore Mann's political thoughts through both World Wars and the anti-communist inquisition in the US. A literary investigation.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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Lady Rebecca Jade, San Diego Songstress

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 04 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Rebecca Jade joins us to talk about her musical history, how she ended up in San Diego, and why she stays. She talks vocal technique, musical education, career development, and clapping on the beat. We also talk about playing on the trolley and with Peter Sprague--and most importantly, where the best places to go for music are in San Diego. Finally, Rebecca offers advice to aspiring professional musicians. A warm and homegrown episode with a wonderful song from Rebecca Jade and the Cold Fact.

The online concert with Peter Sprague that we discuss:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4wiRcp70dIM

Lady Rebecca Jade's website:
http://www.rebeccajade.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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In Memory of Pete Hamill

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 01 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

New York journalist Pete Hamill passed away this month after a stellar career as a columnist, essayist, and author. He and Jimmy Breslin inspired a generation of newspaper reporters, including our guest Brian O'Neill, a columnist in Pittsburgh for the last 30-some years. We talk about Pete's interest in people, how his writing revealed New York, and why his writing is so relevant and timeless. We also read from his columns about Trump in the 80s and the assassination of Bobby Kennedy when Pete was in the galley kitchen where Bobby was shot. We also discuss newspapers as the "rough draft of history" and their importance today. A moving and historic episode.

Brian's book about Pittsburgh "The Paris of Appalachia"
https://bookshop.org/books/the-paris-of-appalachia-pittsburgh-in-the-twenty-first-century/9780887485091

A collection of Pete's columns including one about the assassination of Bobby Kennedy and one about Trump in the 80s:
https://getpocket.com/explore/item/reading-pete-hamill-iconic-newspaperman-1935-2020?utm_source=pocket-newtab

Our series on journalism started here with Joel Kaplan of Syracuse University:
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide/episodes/2020-04-05T05_00_00-07_00

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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Death in Venice: The Novella, the Film, and the Opera

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 30 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Thomas Mann's 1912 novella is about an esteemed artist suffering from writer's block who travels to Venice and becomes enamored with a beautiful Polish boy just as the city is falling prey to a cholera epidemic. It was made into a striking film in 1971 by Luchino Visconti starring Dirk Bogarde and then into an opera by Benjamin Britten as his last work. A simple story belies the torment of passion and disturbing feelings exposed by Mann, not only in his fiction but in his personal diaries, when our heart takes us down an unplanned path with unintended consequences. An episode kind to complicated humans.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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The Basics of Performance Management

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 28 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Being a boss is a big responsibility, even before you realize that your employee's poor performance is your fault. Yikes. We talk about reporting lines, performance appraisals, monitoring performance, and performance improvement processes. We provide a simple but effective tool for providing feedback and course correction in an informal context and how that leads into performance evaluations that are fair, thorough, and objective. We also discuss the steps of a performance improvement process that is employee-oriented, positive, and designed for the best possible outcome. Finally, we review the best ways to handle a termination and how to gather information about employee turnover. An essential episode.

Last week's episode about The Basics of Good Management:
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide/episodes/2020-08-21T05_00_00-07_00

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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Working from Home with Nick Bloom

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 25 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Stanford professor Nick Bloom shares his research about working from home: who likes it and why, what it does to productivity, what it exposes about performance metrics, some thoughts about face-to-face meetings, and what the office of the future might look like. Although he explains that "now is odd," a terrific understatement for the pandemic, we have learned a lot about working from home in the past few months, what makes it successful or not, and we have an opportunity to increase our productivity and enhance our management metrics. An entertaining and enlightening episode.

Nick's website: https://nbloom.people.stanford.edu/
Nick's Ted Talk from 2017: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oiUyyZPIHyY

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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The Basics of Good Management

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 21 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

In a continuing effort to improve our workplaces, particularly where management is concerned, we return to first principles in this episode to re-discover the value of longtime, hardworking employees who, although they don't appear on the balance sheet, really are your greatest assets. We review your responsibilities to nurture and grow them and how you trade resources and support for their knowledge and expertise, especially when, as so often happens, you as the manager don't know enough to do their job and don't understand their challenges. We discuss how you balance the company's interests with the need to train your employees to advocate for themselves. We discuss the requirement for excellent communication skills and how to intervene when conflicts arise, and finally, the respect and honesty that should be extended to every employee. Management is hard, but the basics are not. An episode to get started on the right foot.

An episode on hiring that we reference:
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide/episodes/2019-03-18T17_37_32-07_00

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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Reimagining Capitalism with Rebecca Henderson

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 18 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Harvard economics professor Rebecca Henderson's new book "Reimagining Capitalism in a World on Fire" outlines how capitalism has let us down in recent decades, how free markets have been thwarted, how government has been weakened and corrupted, and how Americans and our planet have suffered. Chockfull of data and evidence, the book is ultimately inspirational, pointing out where businesses and powerful people have taken steps to restore the aspects of last century's economic system that did work well. Her message and call to action are timely and urgent.

Where you can find her book:
https://www.publicaffairsbooks.com/titles/rebecca-henderson/reimagining-capitalism-in-a-world-on-fire/9781541730151/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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Station Eleven by Emily St John Mandel

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 16 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

This 2014 novel starts with the death of a Shakespearean actor followed quickly by a pandemic which wipes out most of humanity and causes the collapse of civilization. We pick the story up 20 years later. Despite its dystopian setting, I found the book uplifting, ultimately hopeful, and surprisingly nostalgic. Of the 16 books of our Sunday pandemic literary series so far, this is the first I recommend reading now.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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Search, Rescue and Recovery Dogs of the Eastern Sierra

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 14 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Today we honor Takoda, Ayla, Journey and Buster, real SAR or recovery dogs who work in the Eastern Sierra. Although their work might seem a bit grisly, they don't think so and demonstrate their enthusiasm and pride through their work ethic and good spirits. We talk about their breeds (Golden retriever, Swiss shepherd, Border collie, and Black lab), training, talents, and experiences. Some have been featured in the media, especially Buster, whose nose took him overseas to discover the remains of many MIA marines, and some toil in relative obscurity, even if their discoveries are very meaningful in the cases of those who are missing or dead. A warning that we do discuss cases of war, murder, and mayhem.

The book the episode is based on:
https://www.whistlingrabbitpress.com/product/working-dogs-of-the-eastern-sierra/

The first episode we did about avalanche dogs:
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide/episodes/2020-06-23T14_16_28-07_00

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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Tupperware and Brownie Wise

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Biographer Bob Kealing talks about his book "Life of the Party," the story of how an ambitious saleslady rose to be a top seller of Tupperware, an executive in the company, and on the cover of Business Week, only to be forced out and written out of the history of Tupperware. Kealing's research reveals new behind-the-scenes glimpses of jealousy, discrimination, and vindictiveness of this remarkable tale. Listen in for an interesting piece of Florida history.

Bob's books on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Bob-Kealing/e/B001JS7WJE%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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The Painted Veil: The Book and the Movie

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 09 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

W. Somerset Maugham's 1925 novel concerning an unfaithful wife whose husband takes her to China during a cholera epidemic was adapted into a 2006 movie starring Edward Norton and Naomi Watts. We contrast the surprisingly edgy and page-turner style of the book with its dreamy romantic representation in the movie. The book presents some themes about sexuality and feminism ignored by the movie while the movie is more cognizant of colonialism and the current events of the day. A fun episode if you're familiar with either the book or the movie, or both, or neither!

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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Our Parents' Jobs

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 07 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

We talk about the immigrant experience where second generation Americans express their appreciation and respect for what their parents went through to get them to where they are, whether it was working menial, low-paying jobs, multiple jobs, being underemployed, or being invisible to their employers. We talk about what occupations are likely to be filled by immigrant workers and what typical pay rates are. The future of the American workforce lies with the second generation, and their stories are similar to those other second-generation Americans back through the last century. You don't have to scratch very hard to find the immigrant in your own family. We also talk about how your parents' jobs can affect your own job choice. An episode of shared American experience.

The LA Times article we discuss:
https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-08-05/readers-share-inspiring-family-stories-about-parents

The podcast with my mother:
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide/episodes/2020-01-14T10_10_26-08_00

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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News about the Covid-19 Vaccine and Arcturus Therapeutics

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 04 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Joe Payne, the CEO of Arcturus Therapeutics, is back to talk about exciting progress on their messenger RNA Covid-19 vaccine and answer questions about testing for antibodies versus T-cell immunity, potential longevity and timing of the vaccine, and what countries are signing up for the potential Arcturus solution. He also talks about what we might expect after the pandemic slows and how Covid-19 might be similar to or differ from the seasonal influenza, and how public education will be key. Another must-listen episode to stay current.

The Arcturus website:
https://arcturusrx.com/

The UCSF Grand Rounds talk we mention:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kNADw5io9Ms

The first episode with Joe from April 2020:
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide/episodes/2020-04-26T05_00_00-07_00

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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@DiscreetGuide

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Margaret Atwood's Oryx and Crake

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 02 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Yay! Another novel about a dystopia caused by a virus! This time, Canadian Margaret Atwood, author of The Handmaid's Tale, presents her view of an over-engineered world of capitalism run amok, leaving it vulnerable to mad science. Despite its length, it's a simple tale of love and morality, and, as it is the first in the MaddAddamm trilogy, there must be some hope left. Another in our Sunday literary series during the pandemic.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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Five Tips to Improve Your English (for Non-Native Speakers)

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 31 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Here are five ways to quickly improve your spoken English and improve your understandability. I've been offering the Your American Voice program for many years, and I find people often think that improving their English is going to be harder than it is. These tips include learning stress inside a word, rhythm inside a sentence, better pronunciation of just a few sounds, making connections between words, and having a good starting position, all of which will make you sound more natural and more American. These can all be practiced on your own by copying other people or using resources online, and should bring significant results. Let me know how it goes!

An article about "singing along," a technique that we talk about:
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/one-way-reduce-your-accent-improve-understandability-today/

More information about the Your American Voice program:
https://www.discreetguide.com/other-programs/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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@DiscreetGuide

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How We Talk: The Conversation Machine

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 28 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Linguist Nick Enfield joins us to discuss ways that humans collaborate during a conversation, from turn-taking with split-second timing to using continuers to encourage a speaker. He also explains how filler words like "um" and "uh" can serve as traffic signals and how a listener can help or derail a storyteller. We also discuss how nuances of conversation reveal relationships and the subtleties of the communication taking place under the surface. Finally, Nick elaborates on how language can be viewed as a tool to form associations and how that might help us understand the current state of public discourse. All fascinating stuff if you're interested in language and humans.

Nick's book that we discuss:
https://bookshop.org/books/how-we-talk-the-inner-workings-of-conversation/9780465059942

Nick's website:
http://nickenfield.org/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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@DiscreetGuide

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They Came Like Swallows by William Maxwell

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 26 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Maxwell's semi-autobiographical novel is told in three parts from the perspective of two young sons and a husband who lose their mother and wife to the 1918 Spanish flu. It's a moving work, full of vignettes of the objects and home that make up a domestic life in the Midwest, and heart-wrenching in its eventual portrayal of loss from an epidemic. Here, we shed the tears so you don't have to and explore the the parallels to today's moment, as well as examine Maxwell's life and career as a longtime editor for the New Yorker. An episode of extraordinary writing and thoughtful analysis by John Updike and Brendan Gill.

The Eastern Sierra Book Festival we mention (Kendra Atleework's interview begins at the 1 hour 10 minute mark:
https://www.facebook.com/EasternSierraBookFestival/videos/1491816557686727/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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@DiscreetGuide

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Taylorism: What It Means Today

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 24 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Extolled by management societies and consultants, Taylor's Principles of Scientific Management, published in 1911, laid the groundwork for a clear demarcation between labor and management: management was for planning, guiding, and measuring, and labor was for moving stuff around and doing as it was told. Controversy still rages over the genius or evil of this approach and what it has meant for a capitalist system. We look at Taylor's life and his work's impact and consider what bearing it has on today's world.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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@DiscreetGuide

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Could You Live On This?

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 21 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

When McDonalds posted a sample budget to demonstrate to employees how they could live on minimum wage (including a second job), it triggered a hostile reaction from media, comedians, and everyday people. Here, we take a look at the estimated expenses, and consider how realistic they are, especially in light of comments on social media from workers around the country. We review briefly the intention of minimum wage (though more of that will come in future episodes). Finally, we consider the struggle and fortitude of people who do survive on minimum wage jobs.

The budget we discuss:
https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/mcdonalds-sample-budget-sheet-laughable-its-implications-are-not-2013-07-27

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide

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@DiscreetGuide

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Mikhail Bulgakov's The Fatal Eggs

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 19 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Bulgakov's science fiction novella, The Fatal Eggs, set in 1928 post-revolutionary Soviet Union, is an absurdist satirical tale of dead chickens, monstrous frogs, bureaucratic bungling, and a miraculous red ray of life. Bulgakov struggled in obscurity, and many of his works were banned because of "ideological nonconformity," but he has now been recognized as an outstanding Russian writer of the 20th century. His humor, insights, and cleverness are on full display here, along with notable contemporary parallels. A funny, escapist episode.

An online version:
http://onlinereadfreenovel.com/mikhail-bulgakov/page,4,33681-the_fatal_eggs.html

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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@DiscreetGuide

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Studs Terkel and Working

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 17 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Studs Terkel was a Chicago broadcaster, author, and actor, whose oral histories came to represent the voice of Americans during the 20th century. His book, Working: People Talk About What They Do All Day and How They Feel About What They Do, was celebrated as a masterpiece of American thought and feeling and a presentation of real people. Despite being published in 1974, its stories, a few of which we read, still seem relevant today and worth considering in light of the current disengagement and dissatisfaction of the American workforce. We close with a song by James Taylor from the musical based on the book. A heartwarming episode.

Working, the Book:
https://bookshop.org/books/working-people-talk-about-what-they-do-all-day-and-how-they-feel-about-what-they-do/9781565843424

The Studs Terkel Archive:
https://studsterkel.wfmt.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide

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@DiscreetGuide

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Is This the End of America's Pastime?

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 14 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

When you start adding things up, it's not looking very good for baseball right now. Sports journalist Andrew Pridgeon and I talk about the truncated 2020 season, the coronavirus risk to the players and their families, attitude of the owners and commissioner, the unrelenting blackout policies, cost of viewing packages, and number of big names dropping out. And that's just this year. What about the aging fans, lack of support for the minor leagues, professionalization of youth baseball, and endless rise in the cost and inconvenience of trying to be a baseball fan? If all this is a window into the owners' thinking, maybe we need to recognize that baseball in its current configuration is not long for this world. But does that provide an opportunity for a better model to come forth, or, even, come back? A thought-provoking episode about a beloved sport.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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@DiscreetGuide

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Brian Kernighan on Dennis Ritchie: Unix, C and a Legacy

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 10 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Computer scientist Brian Kernighan joins us to talk about Dennis Ritchie, creator of the C programming language and co-developer of the Unix operating system along with Ken Thompson. Ritchie never sought the limelight, but his impact on the computer world is still visible everywhere from a multitude of operating systems to programming languages, search engines, car engines, and websites. Brian takes us through what made Ritchie's work novel, profound, inspiring, and long lasting. In a wide-ranging conversation, we talk about writing, Bell Labs, office configurations, motivation, and legacy. Brian even quotes a bit of Latin and offers some great takeaways about finding success and happiness at work. A historical and timely episode.

Brian's book "Unix: A History and a Memoir" that we discuss:
https://bookshop.org/books/unix-a-history-and-a-memoir/9781695978553

The Penn & Teller prank we discuss:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fxMKuv0A6z4

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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@DiscreetGuide

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

The Future of Office Space

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 07 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Commercial real estate broker Scot Ginsburg of the prestigious tenant rep firm Hughes Marino joins us to talk about what is happening and is likely to happen with office space. Are we going back to the office? Will available sublease space skyrocket? How will landlords react to a potential economic downturn? Scot shares what indicators are appearing on the horizon in California and elsewhere. He also discusses how office layouts may change and what attributes are always popular. Finally, he offers some great takeaways for small businesses or anyone who is negotiating a new lease. A practical and essential episode.

Connect with Scot on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/scotginsburg/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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@DiscreetGuide

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

The White Plague by Frank Herbert

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 05 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Published in 1982 and set in 1996, The White Plague, written by Frank Herbert, the acclaimed author of Dune, describes the unleashing of a female-specific virus created by a bioterrorist (before the word was even known) seeking horrific revenge for the murder of his family. Whew. The book is a pretty hard read, but you can appreciate it with this episode and save a lot of time.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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Food F*ck Ups at Work

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 03 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

From disasters with ice cream and cheese sauce to exploding milkshakes and smoothies, to garbage and blueberries ending up where they shouldn't, and inevitable Ranch dressing nightmares, work catastrophes can be really funny when they are on someone else's watch. We recount and make some observations about training and management, though mostly we just laugh. A good time-for-a-break episode.

Related episodes:
IT Screwups: https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide/episodes/2020-01-07T15_45_47-08_00
More Screwups at Work: https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide/episodes/2019-10-18T10_51_55-07_00
The Biggest F***-Ups at Work: https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide/episodes/2019-02-22T18_47_38-08_00

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide

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@DiscreetGuide

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Considering Diversity Training? STOP

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 30 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Behavioral scientist Natasha Ouslis explains how diversity training can backfire, as well as irritate and shame your employees. Implicit bias testing and training focused on the individual are especially flawed. Instead, companies can take positive steps to improve their workplaces by targeting negative behaviors and procedures that restrict access and opportunity. She outlines the components of an effective diversity action plan which will have better results and save money. A must-listen episode in this moment.

Natasha Ouslis's website:
https://natashaouslis.com/

Connect with her on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/natashaouslis/

Follow her on Twitter:
@natashaouslis

Some articles she recommends:
Behaviour modeling training:
https://scienceforwork.com/blog/training-make-change-stick/

Don't do unconscious bias training - part 1:
https://www.tidalequality.com/blog/dont-do-unconscious-bias-training

Don't do unconscious bias training - part 2:
https://www.tidalequality.com/blog/dont-do-unconscious-bias-training-2

The Training Industry article on gender diversity training we reference:
https://trainingindustry.com/articles/compliance/now-is-the-time-for-gender-diversity-training-the-right-kind/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide

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@DiscreetGuide

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The Female Man and a Gender-Specific Plague

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 28 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Joanna Ross's science fiction book The Female Man published in 1975 is still hailed as one of the most influential feminist books. It concerns four women in four different worlds, one of which is "utopian" because all the men have been killed. Another is dystopian because men and women are engaged in a literal battle of the sexes. Many find the book's criticisms of patriarchy still highly relevant; others think it's drivel. We try to make fun of just the parts that merit it and educate you so you can talk big and impress others without having to read it. A time-saving episode.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

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@DiscreetGuide

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The Interrupted Legacy of Adam Schlesinger

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 26 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Pop music aficionado Dan Stalcup joins us to talk about Adam Schlesinger, musician, singer-songwriter, producer, who passed away on April 1st from COVID-19. The list of Adam's contributions seems to surpass what one man could create: co-founder of the bands Fountains of Wayne, Ivy, and Tinted Windows, writer of Crybaby, Josie & the Pussycats, and for Crazy Ex-Girlfriend along with dozens of shows, as well as a multitude of songs covered by other artists. We discuss his versatility, his humor, his evolution, and his talent for finding the extraordinary and humanity in everyday people, an appreciation that has been returned to him many times over since his passing, from big-name music people to heart-broken listeners who found such solace in his music. A gem of an episode.

Dan Stalcup's website and article about Adam:
http://earnthis.net/adam-schlesinger-in-memoriam/

Follow Dan on Twitter:
@StalcupDan

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide

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@DiscreetGuide

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Avalanche Dogs of the Eastern Sierra

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 23 Jun 2020 21:16:28 +0000

For a change of pace, we talk about a different working species today—dogs! We introduce four avalanche dogs, three from Mammoth Mountain and one from June Mountain, as profiled in the book Working Dogs of the Eastern Sierra. We discuss breeding, puppy assessment, training, personality, and the zest that they bring to their work. We also review the origin of Eastside K-9, the nonprofit that provides medical care and insurance for the dogs. We finish with some information about the Eastern Sierra Book Festival's virtual event this year. A celebratory episode with fun dog stories.

The book we reference:
https://bookshop.org/books/working-dogs-of-the-eastern-sierra/9781950835003

Eastside K-9 on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Nonprofit-Organization/Eastside-K-9-164105230315109/

Eastern Sierra Book Festival website:
https://easternsierrabookfestival.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide

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@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Mary Shelley and The Last Man

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 21 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000

We discuss Mary Shelley's life and her 1826 dystopian novel set in 2073 after a plague has wiped out everyone but one. Shelley's turbulent life had tragic elements of love betrayed, financial woes, and the loss of children and lovers. She used all of it in her writing along with explorations of the Romantic era and individualism. We also take a peek at a feminist literary analysis of the opening scene of The Last Man. A retrospective episode of the tribulations from 200 years ago.

A link to the novel:
http://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/18247/pg18247-images.html

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
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@DiscreetGuide

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What's Up with the Economy

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 19 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000

USD econ prof Ryan Ratcliff joins us to talk about unemployment, its various measures, and the shape of the potential recovery (is it a V, a U, a swoosh, or none of the above?). He explains the ripple effect of a recession, why the stock market seems out of sync, and why economists fight. He also offers some career advice for aspiring economists and various jobs they could hold. Finally, he explains why economics is not like physics. An entertaining and enlightening episode.

Follow Ryan on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-ratcliff-a42bb91/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide

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@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

What's So Wrong About Diversity Statements?

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 16 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Attorney Lisa Bildy joins us to talk about the freedoms that are put at risk by mandatory diversity statements that are growing in popularity from law societies to universities to other employers. With a nod at the history of totalitarianism, she explains how these nice-sounding initiatives actually work to undermine real diversity and how they threaten the foundations of our democracies. As an example of a practical way to defeat one such initiative, she recounts how she and other attorneys successfully rolled back the requirement of a Statement of Principles by a Canadian Law Society. A crucial and accessible episode.

Follow Lisa on Twitter:
@LDBildy

James Lindsay's website we mention:
https://newdiscourses.com/

Episode with James Lindsay that we mention:
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide/episodes/2019-12-13T10_14_21-08_00

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide

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https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

The Masque of the Red Death by Edgar Allan Poe

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 14 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000

This gothic short story spawned a bunch of fictional viruses from Earth Abides to the Stand and the Red Plague. It concerns Prince Prospero who welds himself into his castle with 1,000 of his best mates to party and wait out the disease. On the night of a masquerade ball, as the huge ebony clock tolls midnight, an uninvited guest appears, ending the party. We also consider the first Gothic novel, The Castle of Otranto, by Wallace Walpole, as well as a quick review of Poe's life and his poem, The Raven.

Read the short story here:
http://www.gutenberg.org/files/1064/1064-h/1064-h.htm

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide

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@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Ward Hayden and the Outliers

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 12 Jun 2020 03:23:01 +0000

Boston band Ward Hayden and the Outliers, formerly Girls Guns and Glory, join us for a candid conversation about what it takes to sustain a hard-working touring band for 15 years. We talk about the band's work ethic, day jobs, staying healthy on the road, the forced intimacy of touring, the relationships that grow out of creating music together, and the experience that they hope to offer their fans. They also discuss the business of running a band: managing rock and roll gigs in Norway, learning the hard way about what labels or publicists can really deliver, and even the type of personality that is suitable for a longterm band member. A remarkable intimate portrait of a band on the road.

Don't miss the band's Friday streaming party 5 pm ET on Facebook.
https://www.facebook.com/wardhaydenandtheoutliers/photos/a.10151840114187277/10158410273477277/?type=3&theater

The band's website:
https://www.wardhaydenandtheoutliers.com/

Ward Hayden and the Outliers on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/wardhaydenandtheoutliers/

Find them also on Instagram, Spotify, YouTube and Amazon.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide

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@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Staying Cool Under Fire

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 09 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Under attack? Or feel like you are? These specific, practical tactics allow you to respond powerfully but with dignity, and to model good behavior so we can disarm bullies and engage in productive dialogue. Times may have gotten uglier, especially online, but good can come from conflict if we utilize the longstanding tools of effective argument, debate, and discourse. Don't let fear of difficult conversations keep you from engaging, at a time when we need cool heads and reasonable voices. Here is some weaponry to protect you, help you rise above the battle, and emerge unscathed, flying the flag of progress and civility.

Book we reference:
https://www.discreetguide.com/product/you-not-i-exceptional-presence-through-the-eyes-of-others/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide

Support us on Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

The Scarlet Plague by Jack London

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 07 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000

A survivor in 2073 looks back at a plague that killed off most of humanity in 2013. He describes to his great grandchildren what the world was like then with wireless communication, monorail transportation, over population, inequities, and how civilization collapsed under the terror of an uncontrolled pandemic. London wrote this in 1910 (!). We also take a brief look at his career and work. A literary pandemic Sunday episode.

Read the story:
https://www.gutenberg.org/files/21970/21970-h/21970-h.htm

Listen to the story:
https://librivox.org/the-scarlet-plague-by-jack-london/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide

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@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Flygirl, a Female Pilot Exposé

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 05 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Former attorney and pilot R.D. Kardon joins us to talk about her novel Flygirl in which she describes the obstacles that lie in the path of an ambitious female pilot, particularly twenty years ago when R.D. herself was rising through the ranks. We talk about gender and racial bias, and R.D.'s cat weighs in about hate. A timely episode about the career damage and personal hurt inflicted by discrimination.

R.D.'s website:
https://www.rdkardonauthor.com/

Where to buy the book:
https://www.amazon.com/Flygirl-R-D-Kardon/dp/1947392220/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1546459195&sr=8-2&keywords=FLYGIRL

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide

Support us on Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Howard Bloom, Rock and Roll Spinmeister

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 02 Jun 2020 12:00:01 +0000

Music publicist Howard Bloom joins us to talk about his new book Einstein, Michael Jackson and Me: A Search for Soul in the Power Pits of Rock and Roll, a free-wheeling romp through the music scene of the 70s and 80s. Bloom discusses his marketing strategy of delving into a musician's story to understand their drive and who they speak for. He talks PMRC's attempted censorship, John Mellencamp, Michael Jackson, long hours, and how his disciplined approach eventually made him the most successful press agent of his time. A blast from the past for music fans.

Howard's website:
https://www.howardbloom.net/

Where to buy the book:
https://www.amazon.com/Einstein-Michael-Jackson-Me-Search/dp/1493051679

Follow Howard on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/HowardxBloom

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide

Support us on Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

George R. Stewart's Earth Abides, the Story of Another Literary Disease

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 31 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Science fiction readers have long been electrified by Stewart's 1949 novel Earth Abides, a post-apocalyptic story of a small community near Berkeley after most of humanity is killed by disease. Stewart was a diverse writer with a strong interest in history, name, place, and the environment, but this thoughtful novel is his most famous work and inspired Stephen King's The Stand, various musical efforts, and the video game The Last of Us. An exploration of what is civilization with some surprisingly contemporary themes relevant during the pandemic and civil unrest.

A song we mention:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tGiWolvE_gY&feature=youtu.be

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide

Support us on Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Me, the "Entrepreneur"

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 29 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Recent episodes about entrepreneurship have reminded me of this phase of my teenage life when I was trying to make enough money to get back to college so I took any kind of odd job I could get, from dishwashing to housecleaning to detassling corn and even some jobs that lack description. A funny personal episode about my own dirty jobs.

Got a dirty job? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide

Support us on Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Dirty Jobs, The Show

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 26 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

TV producer, Dave Barsky, talks about Dirty Jobs and its seven seasons featuring dangerous, bizarre, and, yes, even filthy, jobs. The show was fun and sensational, full of vicarious thrills, but also serious in its intention to honor men and women who do these behind-the-scenes jobs that require real skill and training. Some of that came from host/apprentice Mike Rowe who would argue that the US has lost its appreciation for skilled labor. The episodes of Dirty Jobs, from bat caves, sewage plants, termite infestations, fishing on the high seas, radio tower installations, head lice treatments, and snake research, are particularly relevant now as they are put into sharp focus through the lens of the pandemic. An entertaining episode with an inimitable guest.

Dave on Twitter:
@producerbarsky

Episodes on the Discovery Channel:
https://www.discovery.com/shows/dirty-jobs

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide

Support us on Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Did Eyes of Darkness Predict Covid-19?

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 24 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

In February 2020, Twitter erupted with the theory that Dean Koontz's novel Eyes of Darkness had foreshadowed the Covid-19 pandemic with its Wuhan 400 virus. We review some goofy conspiracy theories, as well as dissecting the plot of the novel (spoilers galore), and finish with a brief review of Koontz's career, his writing style, his many pen names, and his own witty comments on Twitter. A fun, short, escapist episode.

The Twitter moment:
https://twitter.com/NickHintonn/status/1228896027987660800/photo/1

Follow Dean Koontz on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/deankoontz?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide

Support us on Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

The Soul of an Entrepreneur

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 22 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Journalist and author David Sax joins us to talk about his new book in which he researches what drives people to start up a business, from immigrants, to those who pursue a lifestyle business or carry on the family business. He debunks the myth of the Silicon Valley boy genius, along with other destructive corollaries, that failure is good, venture capital money is always good, and that bigger is always better. He sounds the alarm that there are fewer startups in every industry now and that millennials are the least likely to start a business going back multiple generations. A timely episode with many small businesses hanging in the balance and an opportunity for us to think about what owner-operated businesses bring to our community and our economy.

Where you can buy the book, from an online store that supports independent bookstores:
https://bookshop.org/books/the-soul-of-an-entrepreneur-work-and-life-beyond-the-startup-myth/9781541736009

Follow David on Twitter:
@saxdavid

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow or like us on podomatic.com (it raises our visibility :)
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide

Support us on Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/discreetguide

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Wildpreneurs: A Practical Guide to Starting a Business

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 19 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Tamara Jacobi, who started the Tailwind Jungle Lodge on the coast of Mexico with her parents 15 years ago, joins us to talk about her new book, "Wildpreneurs," and its practical advice about money, work, grit, and customers. Lots of stories, including jungle challenges with ants and litigious visitors, as well as the voice of experience about working on a family business and the dating life of an entrepreneur. An entertaining and not-to-be-missed episode (with the sound of jungle birds in the background).

1/ series on entrepreneurship

The Tailwind Jungle Lodge website:
https://www.tailwindjunglelodge.com/

Tamara on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/tailwindjunglelodge/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

The Plague by Albert Camus

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 17 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

We take a look at Camus' novel, The Plague, published in 1947 after Camus had fought in the French Resistance and become disillusioned with communism. He explores the tendency to downplay the severity of the infestation, by both citizens and authorities, and the eventual moral dilemma faced by an intrepid band of humanists who find there is no other choice but to leap into the fray. We consider the work in the context of Camus' philosophical evolution and review his life's work as a moralist and reluctant existentialist. A reckoning relevant right now.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Truck, Scrip, and Creative Compensation

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 15 May 2020 20:08:19 +0000

A look at barter, truck systems, company scrip, and historical compensation methods, that may be more applicable than ever. Consider beer, for example :) The problems facing us during a time of massive unemployment and lack of liquidity might give rise to creative solutions as used in the ancient past or by recent startups. A fresh look at labor, its value, and how we as a society "pay" for it.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

My First Job

Jennifer Crittenden — Wed, 13 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

In a personal episode, Jennifer recounts her early days of going to the local library as a young girl to check out giant stacks of books, beginning to volunteer there, looking for work, and then eventually getting a job as a page. She talks about commuting by bicycle or by parent, learning about policies and conflict, and her brushes with nascent technologies, such as the infamous randtriever. She also talks about how those experiences shaped her view of and interest in work. A nostalgic look back in time to a different era.

A photo of the old library:
http://guides.idsnews.com/happenings/event/stitched-with-love-family-quilts

A photo of the randtriever:
https://p-upload.facebook.com/dmacclibraries/photos/a.1054044274640478/2423114584400100/?type=3&theater

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Negotiating and Speaking Up for Introverts

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 12 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Career coach and creator of the Wharton Career Discovery Seminar, Jane Finkle, discusses her new book The Introvert's Complete Career Guide and her advice about asking for a raise or negotiating a starting salary. We discuss specific tactics for making your worth known, speaking up in meetings, and breaking into a conversation at a networking event, as well as preparing for difficult conversations. A useful episode with specific takeaways.

Jane's website:
https://janefinkle.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Katherine Anne Porter and Her Literary Virus

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 10 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

We discuss "Pale Horse, Pale Rider," Katherine Anne Porter's work which covers the 1918 Spanish flu, along with a review of her long career with relatively sparse output, as spitefully described by Truman Capote. Porter's insights into people's behavior during a war or crisis offer a perspective for today, and her acerbic tongue is delightful as long as it isn't directed against you. She also reflected on how her own near-death experience changed her. As part of her participation with a leftist group, she protested the trial of Sacco and Vanzetti and wrote a clear-eyed and biting essay near the end of her life about how bias can affect justice. A literary episode with a surprise.

Porter's essay we discuss:
https://www.theatlantic.com/past/docs/unbound/flashbks/oj/porterf.htm

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

The Beauty of the Ombuds

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 08 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

An ombuds office can offer a safe space for informal problem solving and conflict resolution, neatly sidestepping some of the conflict of interest problems inherent in HR departments. Selina Shultz, ombuds, mediator, and former divorce attorney, joins us from the Conflict Lab to talk about the nuts and bolts of a good ombuds office and the benefits it can offer to senior leadership, employees, and even our poor beleaguered HR personnel, including potentially heading off litigation, dispute resolution, mitigating conflict, reducing turnover, and providing an important communication pathway to upper management. She also reads the conflict pledge! A solutions-oriented episode.

The Conflict Lab:
https://www.theconflictlab.com/

The International Ombudsman Association Selina mentions:
https://www.ombudsassociation.org/

Selina on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/selinajshultz/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Freedom of Speech in the Workplace

Jennifer Crittenden — Wed, 06 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Employment attorney Chris Olmsted joins us to talk about employees' free speech, protected speech, speech that might get you fired, and speech that's just a bad idea. He talks about employers' rights, responsibilities, keeping the peace, and background checks into candidates' social media. He also deftly dissects some specific cases we throw at him on the fly and closes with some rational advice for all of us during a fraught election year. An essential episode.

Employer information Chris references:
https://ogletree.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

LA's Garment Factories

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 05 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Garment Worker Center Director Marissa Nuncio joins us to talk about the history of the garment industry in LA, its so-called sweatshops, typical wages and conditions, how the pandemic has ravaged these low-paid jobs, even as some are currently redeployed as essential workers to make masks and PPE, proposed legislation, and signs of hope and awareness in the fashion industry. The GWC is currently running a donation campaign to provide financial assistance to garment factory workers to pay for food and medicine. An important episode if you wear clothes.

The GWC's website:
https://garmentworkercenter.org/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Stephen King's The Stand and Another Literary Virus

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 04 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

We look at the origins of The Stand, a post-apocalyptic nightmare after Captain Trips, a virulent influenza, has killed off most of the world's population. An epic battle ensues between good and evil, personified by two memorable characters, one of whom, Randall Flagg, makes his first awful appearance, though it won't be the last in King's novels. We cover the difficulty of producing the work and where it fits in King's legacy. We also review his book On Writing, part-memoir, part how-to guide, and read some sections on being a hack, stupid criticism, and why to write. We also talk about some dogs. Also F-bomb alert. Even if you're not a King reader, I think you'll get something out of this episode.

A link to the audio of King reading from The Stand about how a virus spreads:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwN5vYGiZws&feature=youtu.be

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Twenty Years as a TV Anchor

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 03 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Joya Dass worked as business reporter and TV anchor for twenty years, reporting from the floor of the stock exchange. She joins us to talk about her early inspiration by Tom Brokaw, the grind of TV reporting, notable stories that she reported on, and her advice for people coming into the public eye and providing content for an audience. Excellent takeaways from this episode.

10/10 Episodes on Journalism

Joya's current endeavor:
https://ladydrinks.com/

Follow Joya on Twitter:
@JoyaDass

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

America's Last Great Newspaper War

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 01 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

We discuss his recent book with Michael Jaccarino about the Darwinian epic battle between the New York Daily News and the New York Post. He recounts the madcap behind-the-scenes shenanigans to one-up the other paper that he and other runners and shooters engaged in to get the "wood" and win the day. From covering tragedy and death to getting the scoop on Miss New Jersey, Spitzer, and Derek Jeter, the stories are a fascinating peak into a different era, but Mike also shares his personal journey of evolution from a get-the-story-at-all-costs cub reporter to a place where he just couldn't knock on one more newly-minted widow's door. A fantastic interview, if I say so myself.

9/10 Episodes on Journalism and Journalists

The book:
https://www.fordhampress.com/9780823287383/americas-last-great-newspaper-war/

Follow Mike on Twitter:
@mjaccarino1

Where Mike works now:
https://theweek.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Bethany McLean on Enron and Business Reporting

Jennifer Crittenden — Thu, 30 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

In March 2001, Bethany McLean made history by raising questions about Enron's financials in a Fortune article. This was before Enron went bankrupt, its officials jailed, and its accountants investigated, before its jaw-dropping level of corruption and greed was documented in The Smartest Guys in the Room, a book Bethany co-authored, and further disclosed in the ensuing documentary. Bethany tells us about her career, how that article thrust her into the limelight, how perseverance and not being automatically good at something can help you, and some thoughts on business reporting and ethics in today's world. A must-listen.

8/10 Episodes on Journalism and Journalists

The infamous article:
https://www.webcitation.org/5tZ26rnac?url=http://money.cnn.com/2006/01/13/news/companies/enronoriginal_fortune/index.htm

Follow Bethany on Twitter:
@bethanymac12

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Signs of Covid Comedy

Jennifer Crittenden — Wed, 29 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Time for a laugh! We take a look at people's humorous takes on working from home, being quarantined, and their own foibles during the pandemic. People show their humility and humanity through signs, photographs, and acts of random and bizarre kindness. A quick and funny episode.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

The Trade Press and the Keating Five

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 28 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Journalism professor and author Rob Wells joins us to talk about his book, The Enforcers, the scandalous Keating Five, and why the trade press is so important. He also talks about the state of journalism, news literacy, interesting collaborations underway, and some takeaways that would improve the media industry. An important addition to our series on journalism.

7/10 Episodes on Journalism and Journalists

Note that we recorded this episode before we knew about the pandemic, so, yay! not one word about coronavirus to be heard here.

Rob's book:
https://www.press.uillinois.edu/books/catalog/39sqh8ta9780252042942.html

Rob's website:
http://www.robswells.com/

Follow Rob on Twitter:
@rwells1961

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Andromeda Strain, A Literary Virus

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 27 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

We talk about The Andromeda Strain, Michael Crichton's first book under his own name, which tells the story of an alien bug brought to earth by a military satellite. That microorganism goes on to kill a whole town and create an unholy climax involving a potential nuclear disaster. We read an excerpt and talk about Crichton's reaction to Robert Gottlieb's criticism as his editor and read from Gottlieb's book, Avid Reader, about the process. Finally, we consider the Odd-Man Hypothesis and explore the case of a real scientist who thought he was a fictional character.

Spoiler alert!

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Arcturus and the COVID-19 Vaccine

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 26 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Joe Payne and Neda Safarzadeh of Arcturus Therapeutics, a San Diego biotech, join us to talk about their progress on developing a vaccine against COVID-19 with a Singapore partner. Joe explains about messenger RNA vaccines, their advantages in safety, manufacturing, and efficiency, as well as regulatory processes and a potential timeline, and why some vaccines have to be modified each year. He also tells us what Arcturus means. A highly educational episode about a critical issue.

Arcturus Therapeutics' website:
https://arcturusrx.com/

Follow Arcturus on Twitter:
@ArcturusRx

Joe Payne on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jepayne/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

The Evolution of HR, Accelerated by a Pandemic

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 24 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Patrick Wright, HR expert and one of HR Magazine's Most Influential Thought Leaders, joins us to talk about the events from the 70s to today that have affected the HR profession. He also talks about how major shifts in the economy and law have highlighted the importance of HR inside an organization, and how those are on full display today, where nearly every aspect of the pandemic requires HR guidance. We discuss ways for the HR departments to contribute to company success without sacrificing profits or people. A realistic and hopeful episode.

Center for Executive Succession:
www.moore.sc.edu/ces

Patrick Wright on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-wright-a4668483/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

The Depression, the New Deal, and the Coronavirus Pandemic

Jennifer Crittenden — Wed, 22 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

In light of comparisons being drawn between the Depression and today's economic crisis, we look at comparative unemployment claims and declines in the stock market. We review the programs of the New Deal, especially which ones have endured, and consider the longterm legacy of those government actions. A historical perspective.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Creative Work Done in Quarantine

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 21 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

"Shakespeare wrote King Lear in quarantine -- what's wrong with you?" While we are struggling to do our normal work, home-school our kids, and cook during a crisis, it's inappropriate to pressure ourselves to also engage in creative work, but we look here at some historical figures working in quarantine, including Isaac Newton, Edvard Munch, Giovanni Boccaccio, and Thomas Nashe. We read Boccaccio's description of the plague, and consider Nashe's satirical writing and his involvement with Shakespeare. We also propose an ill-informed opinion about the authenticity of Shakespeare' work. Finally, we look at some artistic endeavors underway today, and read Jessica Salfia's poem "The First Lines of Emails I've Received While Quarantining." An inspirational episode.

The episode about productivity with Alex Pang that we reference:
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide/episodes/2020-03-26T05_00_00-07_00

The Getty Museum project we reference:
https://blogs.getty.edu/iris/getty-artworks-recreated-with-household-items-by-creative-geniuses-the-world-over/

The CoronaMaison project we reference:
http://coronamaison.fun/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

The WWE and Sports During the Pandemic

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 20 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Sports journalist Andrew Pridgen joins us to talk about pro wrestling, its recent classification in Florida as an essential business, and owner Vince McMahon's subsequent immediate layoff of dozens of employees. We talk about the state of affairs with sports right now during the pandemic and the continued decline of organized labor. Andrew also shares his story from cub newspaper reporter through freelancer during hard times, as well as other writers' experiences. Lots of laughs despite some tough topics.

6/10 Episodes on Journalism and Journalists

Follow Andrew on Twitter:
@andrewjpridgen

The women-owned outdoors magazine Andrew talks about:
https://sisumagazine.com/

Andrew's article we mention:
https://deathofthepressbox.wordpress.com/tag/telluride/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

A Quick History of Pandemics and Epidemics

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 17 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

SARS, avian, H1N1, covid, plague, Spanish flu—what is all this? If you're like me, it's become a bit of a blur. In this episode we review the major pandemics and epidemics that have swept the globe throughout history to gain a perspective on global diseases and how humanity has fought back to survive and flourish. An ultimately uplifting episode.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

The Expulsion of Journalists During a Pandemic

Jennifer Crittenden — Thu, 16 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Roy Gutterman of the Tully Center for Free Speech joins us to talk about media repression and the expulsion of journalists during a pandemic, both from China and the US, as well as other parts of the globe. He discusses reporter safety and importance, particularly during a pandemic, as well as how critical the First Amendment and judicial independence is to the freedom of the press and how those are being threatened in this moment of crisis. An important episode about our country.

5/10 Episodes on Journalism and Journalists

The Tully Center's website:
https://tully.syr.edu/

Follow the Tully Center on Twitter:
@TullyCenter

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

The San Diego Union Tribune and the Coronavirus

Jennifer Crittenden — Wed, 15 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Tarcy Connors of the San Diego Union Tribune joins us today. She is currently leading the paperwide effort to cover the coronavirus. She talks about the history of the paper, its various owners, and its near collapse. We discuss the challenges for the reporters who are covering the coronavirus both logistically and to protect their health. Tarcy also takes us behind the scenes to see how stories are generated and reported. Although readership is way up, she offers a call to action to subscribe to the news outlet right now, when advertising revenue has plummeted. An important episode about the news in this Covid-19 moment.

4/10 Episodes on Journalism and Journalists

To subscribe or contact The San Diego Union Tribune:
https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

When Your Job Can Get You Killed

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 13 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Lucy Westcoff from the Committee to Protect Journalists joins us to talk about CPJ's statistics on journalists who are killed or injured while on the job and how dangerous the current climate has become. She discusses threats to female journalists, including online harassment and intimidation, and efforts to raise awareness about safety, especially after the murder of Kim Wall. We also talk about the case of Jamal Khashoggi, who was murdered with complete impunity. An eye-opening episode about another kind of frontline worker.

3/10 Episodes on Journalism and Journalists

The Committee to Protect Journalists' website:
https://cpj.org/

About Lucy Westcoff:
https://cpj.org/about/staff.php#lucy-westcott

Follow Lucy on Twitter:
@lvzwestcott

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Union Activities and Essential Workers During a Pandemic

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 10 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Labor and employment relations professor John Logan joins us to talk about unionizing in the modern era, particularly recent activism during the pandemic, the state of union membership, and how the crisis might affect labor organizing. We also talk about the large numbers of essential employees who are endangering their health and lives to feed and take care of the rest of us and what safety provisions should be put in place immediately to keep them as safe as possible. An eye-opening episode with an important message for this moment.

John Logan's profile:
https://cob.sfsu.edu/directory/john-logan

John's Op-Ed that he mentions:
https://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/labor/490964-grocery-unions-protect-workers-and-save-lives

A related episode: "A Brief History of Labor Unions"
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide/episodes/2020-02-18T09_00_00-08_00

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Losing the Local News

Jennifer Crittenden — Thu, 09 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

PEN America writers Viktorya Vilk and Nora Benavidez join us to talk about their investigative report, "Losing the News: The Decimation of Local News and the Search for Solutions." We talk about the state of newspapers and other media outlets across the country, how the pandemic is bringing the importance of journalism to the forefront, and some potential funding options for local news. We also tell some stories about how newspapers can keep politicians honest and the creepiness of the Sinclair Broadcast Group's "must-reads." A lovely conversation about an important topic.

2/10 Episodes on Journalism and Journalists

The report we discuss:
https://pen.org/local-news/?mc_cid=0279e2ee3b&mc_eid=8db8161786

Viktorya and Nora's organization:
https://pen.org/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Money During Corona

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 07 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Two of the creators of the brand new website moneyduringcorona.com, Ben Hsu and Paul Klein, join the show to talk about the inspiration for the project, how the creators found each other, their vision for the jobs website, and how it's catching on. We also chat about hourly jobs versus remote work, what jobs are being created, unemployment, income inequality, SMS, and have a laugh about the need for people who can program in Cobol. A heartening episode about an awesome project.

THE website:
https://www.moneyduringcorona.com/

The company we mention:
https://www.twilio.com/

Connect with Ben Hsu:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminlhsu/

Connect with Paul Klein:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulleoklein/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

A Scientist's Perspective on Face Masks

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 06 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Microbiologist, research scientist, and co-chair of the Cambridge City COVID–19 Expert Advisory Panel (and my sister!), Jill Crittenden, joins us to talk about what face masks can do for you and people around you, what masks work best, how to make your own, and how to use masks safely. She provides science-backed information about how the coronavirus is transmitted and the best safety measures for a community. She also discusses several initiatives to provide protective gear to cashiers and to frontline healthcare workers. A crucial episode.

JILL WOULD LIKE TO UPDATE THIS INFORMATION BY RECOMMENDING THAT DIY MASK MAKERS USE THE SHOP TOWEL OPTION INSTEAD OF THE PAPER TOWEL OPTION. Both are mentioned in the podcast.

An article about Jill and one of the initiatives:
https://mcgovern.mit.edu/2020/04/02/mcgovern-scientist-helps-build-covid-19-resource-to-address-shortage-of-face-masks/

A How-To Video for how to make a mask:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hVEVve-3QeM#Masks4All,%20and%20how%20to%20make%20your%20own%20mask

Additional information about public masks:
https://www.n95decon.org/masks-for-public-use

Connect with Jill on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jill-crittenden/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Talking Journalism During a Pandemic

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 05 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Associate dean and professor at Syracuse University, Joel Kaplan, joins us to talk about historical trends in journalism, its golden age, some legal points about sources, safety for journalists, current issues with the media, and how coronavirus might affect how we consume and pay for the news. A fascinating episode during a pandemic.

1/10 Episodes on Journalism and Journalists

The Newhouse School Joel talks about:
https://newhouse.syr.edu/

About our guest and how to contact him:
https://newhouse.syr.edu/faculty-staff/joel-kaplan

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

The San Diego Food Bank Steps Up

Jennifer Crittenden — Thu, 02 Apr 2020 09:00:00 +0000

Covid-19 has created a surge in food needs. Jim Floros, executive director of the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank, joins us to talk about how this independent nonprofit is coping with longer lines and people's rising concern about a lack of food. He talks pivots, an entrepreneurial spirit, a business-like approach, investment, collaboration, community, gratitude, and the need for money. An uplifting episode.

The Food Bank's website:
https://sandiegofoodbank.org/

How to get help:
https://sandiegofoodbank.org/programs/

How to create your own food drive (Jim describes this fun initiative):
https://sandiegofoodbank.org/food-drives/host-a-food-drive/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Typhoid Mary: A Believe-It-Or-Not Story

Jennifer Crittenden — Wed, 01 Apr 2020 09:00:00 +0000

In honor of April Fools' Day, we tell the story of Typhoid Mary, a carrier of typhoid fever although she herself was without symptoms. She infected a number of families and was eventually forcibly quarantined for 26 years. Lots of interesting issues to unpack here about the ability to work, the importance of references, dangerous employees, public health, and freedom. A short and fascinating episode.

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Useful Questions, A New Book

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 31 Mar 2020 09:00:01 +0000

First-time author and life coach, Corrinn Davis, joins us to talk about her new book, "Useful Questions: A Guide to Self-Coaching." According to Jack Canfield, the book should be read by "anyone serious about living a happy, successful, and fulfilling life." Corrinn shares her own personal development journey with great stories and tips to keep us mentally strong during difficult times and feed the good wolf. An uplifting episode during a pandemic.

To buy the book (introductory sale price!):
https://www.whistlingrabbitpress.com/product/useful-questions-a-guide-to-self-coaching/

Corrinn's website:
https://www.citstation.com/

Corrinn's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpWyJDf5dbSxznS6ku1yAcA

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

What the Pandemic Is Teaching Us About Leave Policies

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 30 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Christine Dinan, an attorney with A Better Balance, a worker advocacy group, joins us to talk about how the pandemic is bringing the lack of adequate leave policies into sharp focus. She discussed the recent sick leave legislation and who it leaves out (some surprises there). The US lags behind other developed countries in its leave policies, and this is creating another crisis for struggling families during this pandemic. An educational episode.

A Better Balance's website with resources we discuss:
https://www.abetterbalance.org/

Their hotline number:
1-833-NEED-ABB (1-833-633-3222)

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Publishing Versus Podcasting: Either, Neither, or Both

Jennifer Crittenden — Sun, 29 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

In our 100th episode, we change things up a bit to talk about creative projects people might be contemplating during the pandemic and what to consider in choosing between publishing books or other written materials and podcasting. We look at potential reach and difficulty for each option with some observations about costs and eventual impact. A good starter episode for people thinking of putting their voices out into the world.

Jennifer's publishing company:
https://www.whistlingrabbitpress.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

Connect with the host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

How the Coronavirus is Affecting San Diego Employers

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Jennifer Jacobus of the San Diego Employers Association joins us to provide updates about the latest legislation regarding sick leave and what problems employers are facing during this public health crisis. She discusses strategies companies are using to mitigate the economic impact and take care of their employees, increasing flexibility and remote work. She also looks into her crystal ball and tells us what she thinks is on the horizon. A practical and positive episode.

About San Diego Employers Association:
https://sdeahr.org/

Connect with the guest on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-jacobus-phrca-shrm-cp-472051a/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Productivity During a Pandemic

Jennifer Crittenden — Thu, 26 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Futurist and expert on productivity and rest, Alex Pang, talks about the challenge of remote work, organizing your day, how to facilitate your most creative moments, and how to be productive even when you're not working! Also, how the pandemic might be disruptive in a good way, forcing us to rethink unhelpful beliefs and creating opportunity to make work better. A positive and profound episode.

Alex's website:
http://www.strategy.rest/

Alex's latest book "Shorter," a recommended read (Amazon is not shipping books til April, but Powells can ship it. Support your independent booksellers!)
https://www.powells.com/book/-9781541730717

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Remote Leadership with Wayne Turmel

Jennifer Crittenden — Wed, 25 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Wayne Turmel of the Remote Leadership Institute joins us to talk about some basics of effective remote leadership, pitfalls, how remote work can exaggerate poor management, how to establish ground rules, and to pivot between staff in the office and those working from home. We also talk about why using a webcam will make you happy. A valuable crash course for managers new to remote leadership.

Wayne's company:
https://www.remoteleadershipinstitute.com/

Follow Wayne on Twitter:
@WTurmel

Wayne's Amazon Author page:
https://www.amazon.com/Wayne-Turmel/e/B00J5PGNWU

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Brand Messaging During a Pandemic

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 24 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Content creator and influencer Ted Bauer joins us to talk about email blasts and other news releases during the pandemic and why some fall flat with generic communication or blatant sales "slimy-ness." We also discuss how the crisis provides an opportunity for businesses to demonstrate real leadership with relevant, helpful, and reassuring messaging and forge a new kind of relationship with their customers. Don't miss this episode. It could make a difference in your world.

Ted Bauer on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/tedbauer2003/

Follow Ted on Twitter:
@tedbauer2003

His blog:
http://thecontextofthings.com/

Thoughts? Comments? Potshots? Contact the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Keeping Our Network Healthy During a Pandemic

Jennifer Crittenden — Mon, 23 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Coach Helena Demuynck talks about strategies to stay positive, creative, and forward-looking during difficult times, in order to contribute and pursue our purpose. We can help others by dodging negative energy, overcoming our reptile brain, and keeping our head straight when our kids and partners are stressing us during quarantine. A practical episode for an unusual phase of our lifetime.

Contact the guest:
https://www.oxygen4leadership.com/

Follow the guest on Twitter:
@HelenaDemuynck

Comment on the show at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

Remote Working Fails

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 20 Mar 2020 16:00:00 +0000

During this time of Corona, we're all learning the risks of working remotely. From pets, kids, and naked roommates appearing on camera to unmuted mics and other technical mishaps to discovering what your partner's work persona is *really* like, we cover what #WFH peeps are reporting. A funny episode after a tough week.

Professor Kelly and Daughter Miriam's viral video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mh4f9AYRCZY

A Conference Call in Real Life:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JMOOG7rWTPg

Share your stories or comments at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

A Guide to Workplace Humor

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 17 Mar 2020 23:16:24 +0000

Humor researcher Barbara Plester joins us to talk about the four types of humor, why jokes sometimes offend, how managers can embrace humor and reduce its risk, and an effective response to an offensive comment. We also go deep on why some people think a fake used condom, a poster about punching a woman, and a Catholic-eating alligator are funny–and others don't. An insightful and practical episode.

Barbara's book "Laugh Out Loud: A User's Guide to Workplace Humor"
https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-981-13-0283-1

Contact the guest:
Barbara Plester

An article Jennifer wrote that we mention:
http://www.discreetguide.com/articles/sorry-ladies-the-dark-side-of-workplace-humor/

Contact the host:
https://www.discreetguide.com/podcast-dear-discreet-guide/

Connect with the host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The Genius of Office Space

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 13 Mar 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Stuart Gaston and Jennifer, both fans of the movie, Office Space, chat about the evolution of the film into cult status, why it's been called a "brutal portrayal of workplace misery," its iconic moments and related memes, its continued relevance, as well as Mike Judge's subsequent projects. Lots of laughs, along with some diversions into Buddhism and the importance of absurdity. An episode to lighten the mood on Friday the 13th.

Scene from the move: [don't watch the trailer; it wrecks the film]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_iiOEQOtBlQ

Stuart's website that we talk about:
https://www.bullshitjob.com/

Want to chime in? Leave comments at:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

Alex Pang and the Four-Day Work Week

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 10 Mar 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Futurist and author Alex Pang joins us to talk about his new book "Shorter: Work Better, Smarter, and Less - Here's How" and his discoveries about companies that have implemented four-day work weeks or six-hour work days. Fabulous insights into productivity, creativity, flexibility, retention, and families. The book launches today and is highly recommended.

About the book:
https://www.amazon.com/Shorter-Work-Better-Smarter-Heres/dp/1541730712/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=shorter+alex+pang&qid=1583794950&s=books&sr=1-1

About the guest:
http://www.askpang.com/

Follow the guest on Twitter:
@askpang

Contact the host:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

Jack Welch Through Today's Lens

Jennifer Crittenden — Sat, 07 Mar 2020 04:38:25 +0000

Welch biographer and early skeptic, Tom O'Boyle, joins us to talk about his book "At Any Cost: Jack Welch, General Electric, and the Pursuit of Profit," Welch's legacy, and how it has developed over the past decades since his retirement. GE was a powerhouse during Welch's tenure as CEO, growing in market value from $12 billion to $410 billion. Welch was lauded as a genius and named by Fortune as "The Manager of the Century." Through today's lens, however, many of Welch's decisions seem to have led to the company's near collapse in 2008. We also review the other repercussions, human, societal, and political, of the business mentality that Welch personified and for which he was celebrated.

The book we discuss:
https://www.amazon.com/At-Any-Cost-General-Electric/dp/0375705678/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1583556451&sr=8-1-fkmr1

Contact the host:
https://www.discreetguide.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden

Follow the host:
@DiscreetGuide

An Employee-Centric Culture

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 03 Mar 2020 17:00:00 +0000

Entrepreneur and author Sherry Stewart Deutschmann joins us to talk about her new book "Lunch with Lucy" that comes out next week and the unique culture she created at her printing company, including an egalitarian profit-sharing plan, generous benefits, a new way to calculate a living wage, and even an unconventional organizational chart. She also talks about her new venture to provide assistance to small women-owned businesses. A thought-provoking episode with great takeaways.

The book:
https://www.amazon.com/Lunch-Lucy-Maximize-Profits-Investing/dp/1733478108

Connect with or follow the guest:
http://bit.ly/FBDeutschmann
https://www.picuki.com/profile/sherry.stewart.d
https://twitter.com/sherrystewartd
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrystewartd/

Contact the host:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/
@DiscreetGuide

Work-Life Balance: My Stories

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 28 Feb 2020 21:02:25 +0000

Working parents are often overwhelmed and looking for advice about how to handle all their responsibilities. I can't say that I was particularly successful, but I share here some things I learned that helped me reduce stress, accomplish more, prioritize, and live better. I also share some awful stories of stuff I got wrong. A personal episode. Comments welcome!

A related episode about productivity:
https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/deardiscreetguide/episodes/2020-02-14T09_00_00-08_00

An article about travel:
http://www.discreetguide.com/articles/1616-2/

Contact the host:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

The History and Future of Employer-Provided Health Insurance

Jennifer Crittenden — Tue, 25 Feb 2020 19:08:14 +0000

Ever wonder how on earth it came to be that we get our health insurance from our employer? How did that happen, what changes have transpired since the 40s, what changes were brought by the Affordable Care Act, and how might insurance change in the future? In this fascinating episode, former CEO and author, Rick Lindquist, discusses the forces that brought in employer-provided health insurance and those that are driving it out. An essential and relevant episode.

About the guest:
https://www.ricklindquist.com/

His current company:
https://www.leguphealth.com/

Connect with him on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/riclindquist/

Follow him on Twitter:
@RickLindquist

Contact the host:
https://www.discreetguide.com/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide

Connect with the host on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkcrittenden/

What Is She? The Sex That Cannot Be Named

Jennifer Crittenden — Fri, 21 Feb 2020 17:00:01 +0000

We discuss the various terms used for female people: ladies, women, gals, and girls, their connotations and use, to good and bad effect in the workplace.

Book we talk about:
https://www.discreetguide.com/product/whats-a-guy-to-do/

Follow the host on Twitter:
@DiscreetGuide