In this powerful conversation, Sean opens up about his combat experiences, temporary psychotic breakdown in 2012, and how he discovered that vocal breathing exercises from music school were identical to the anxiety management techniques taught in veteran clinics.

Learn about Sean's unique approach to song writing through Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), where he transforms "hot thoughts"

- the core issues identified during therapy - into powerful lyrics. Discover how his red Fender Show master guitar, which accompanied him to Iraq, plays a distinct role in creating layered rhythms versus lead tones in his music.

Sean dives deep into the science behind music's healing properties, explaining how managing brain chemicals like adrenaline, serotonin, dopamine, and cortisol through creative expression helped him overcome trauma.

He shares practical CBT techniques for identifying and processing traumatic thoughts, turning them into songs like "Aversion to Normality" and "Nemesis Friend of Mind."

The discussion covers the challenges of the music industry, dealing with rejection, and maintaining mental health as an artist.

Sean offers valuable insights on: Using music to process the five stages of grief The therapeutic value of long-form storytelling in songs Protecting your mental health from online criticism Finding gratitude and perspective during difficult times Creating boundaries while pursuing artistic passion Whether you're a musician, veteran, or someone interested in mental health and creative expression, this interview offers profound insights into the transformative power of music and the practical applications of therapy techniques in everyday life.

Find The Quarantined at thequarantine.com and on all streaming platforms.

This episode contains discussions of PTSD, therapy, and mental health recovery that may be helpful for anyone navigating their own healing journey.

🌟 Join David Watson as he sits down with Ivonne, author of the transformative book "108 Ways to Be Happier," in this inspiring conversation about finding joy in life's simple moments.

🎧 Key Highlights: • How a personal collection of "life's gems" evolved into a powerful happiness guide • The profound impact of Julia Cameron's "The Artist's Way" on unlocking creativity • Why 108 isn't just a number—it's a meaningful structure for life-changing habits • Simple daily practices that can transform your mental health: gratitude, meditation, and "me time" • The power of saying YES to new experiences and NO to what drains you • How small, consistent changes create compound happiness • Why eliminating the word "can't" can revolutionize your mindset

💫 Golden Nuggets: "Success is achieving anything you set out to do—even making a cup of tea" "If you're having a grey day, look back on challenges you've overcome for strength" "We're on this planet once. It's not a rehearsal.

You might as well enjoy it" "The good stuff looks for you when you look for the good stuff"

We explore the human cost of coal mining disasters, the forgotten history of mining communities, and the years of research Isabelle carried out to bring this tragic event to life through fiction.

Isabelle shares how her father’s connection to the coal industry helped spark the book, why the Buffalo Creek disaster still matters today, and how survivor testimony shaped her writing.

We also discuss the Aberfan disaster in Wales, the culture of coal mining in America and the UK, the bond within mining communities, and the emotional legacy left behind after preventable industrial tragedies.

This is a moving conversation about history, memory, community, trauma, resilience, and the role of storytelling in preserving voices that might otherwise be lost.

Topics covered in this episode: Isabelle Ready and her novel That You Remember The Buffalo Creek disaster Historical fiction based on true events Coal mining history in America and the UK The Aberfan disaster Survivor stories and generational trauma Appalachian communities and coal heritage Researching real-life tragedy for fiction Memory, grief, and resilience

If you enjoy thoughtful conversations about books, history, forgotten tragedies, human resilience, and the stories that shape communities, make sure to like, comment, and subscribe.

Find Isabelle Ready here: Website: thatyouremember.com

Listen to more episodes of The David Watson Podcast for conversations with authors, thinkers, and fascinating guests from around the world.

Hashtags: #IsabelleReady #ThatYouRemember #BuffaloCreekDisaster #HistoricalFiction #CoalMiningHistory #Aberfan #Appalachia #BookPodcast #AuthorInterview #DavidWatsonPodcast

In this revealing interview, Alan shares ground breaking discoveries from his investigative book "Stonehenge Deciphered" that will change how you see this ancient wonder forever.

Discover the revolutionary findings that answer Stonehenge's biggest mysteries:

Why the bluestones were transported 150 miles from Wales (it's not what you think!) The incredible audio properties of these "ringing stones" that chimed like bells How ancient builders used golden protractors to create precise celestial alignments The visual magic of polished stones that looked like the Milky Way

Mathematical genius revealed through 5,000-year-old golden artifacts Alun Rees, a veteran journalist with unprecedented access to Stonehenge research, presents evidence-based conclusions that challenge conventional theories.

Learn about the Bush Barrow Lozenge, the Upton Lovell Button, and the Clandon Barrow Lozenge - three golden artifacts that prove Stonehenge's builders possessed advanced mathematical knowledge far beyond what we previously believed.

This interview reveals: The Bristol Channel tide theory that could explain stone transportation Connections between Stonehenge and the Nebra Sky Disc Evidence of ancient trade routes and knowledge exchange across Europe

Why archaeologists resist these ground breaking discoveries The ceremonial and sensory purposes of Stonehenge that go beyond simple calendar functions Whether you're a history enthusiast, archaeology lover, or simply fascinated by ancient mysteries, this conversation presents compelling evidence that Stonehenge's builders were far more sophisticated than we've ever imagined.

Key Topics Covered:

✓ Stonehenge's true purpose revealed ✓ Lithophonic stones and ancient acoustics ✓ Neolithic mathematics and engineering ✓ Golden protractors older than Egyptian tools ✓ Bristol Channel transportation theory ✓ Nebra Sky Disc connections ✓ Bush Barrow archaeological discoveries ✓ Ancient trade routes and knowledge exchange

Find Alun Rees book "Stonehenge Deciphered": Available on Amazon and other major retailers Hardback version coming soon in the UK Currently available in hardback in the US

Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction and local Stonehenge connections 1:51 - Why Avebury might be better than Stonehenge for visitors 3:14 - Alan's personal journey covering Stonehenge since 1985 4:25 - The famous Stonehenge free festival battles 6:11 - Local stone sites and the Sarsen stones 7:42 - How Alan began investigating Stonehenge mysteries 8:36 - The Bush Barrow treasure and Wiltshire Museum 10:04 - Understanding burial mounds around Stonehenge 12:57 - The misty, mystical atmosphere of Stonehenge 14:23 - The Bristol Channel stone transportation theory 17:00 - Revolutionary tide-powered transport method 18:25 - Why Stonehenge was built at this specific location 19:40 - The glacial stripes pointing to winter solstice 21:04 - The bluestones' incredible properties 22:31 - Lithophonic stones that ring like bells 25:09 - The religious significance of chiming stones 27:46 - Stonehenge as a sensory banquet for ancient worship 29:09 - The Bush Barrow Lozenge's mathematical significance 30:02 - Ancient protractors discovered in golden artifacts 32:25 - Ivy Yang's mathematical breakthrough with Stonehenge's geometry 33:04 - Independent confirmation by British mathematician David Gregg 34:54 - The 360-degree connection and Sumerian influence 36:01 - DNA evidence of Anatolian migration to Britain 37:14 - The Nebra Sky Disc connection 39:19 - Why archaeologists ignore these mathematical discoveries 41:13 - The missing discussion of ancient engineering tools 42:27 - Evidence of ancient European trade networks 45:06 - What readers will discover in "Stonehenge Deciphered" 46:49 - Alan's time machine question: Stonehenge in a 4x4 with "Riders on the Storm"

Don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the NOTIFICATION bell for more fascinating archaeological discoveries and ancient mystery investigations!

In this revealing interview, Michelle shares her unique journey from growing up across Europe to becoming a published author, discussing:

Her unconventional path to becoming a writer through deconstructing acclaimed novels.

The 3 years of intensive research into plantation life and slave narratives

How she approached writing from both slaveholder and enslaved perspectives

The shocking discovery that changed her understanding of historical "good people"

Why understanding point of view is crucial for creating authentic characters

Her method of breaking down scenes like a film director to master storytelling

Michelle also shares invaluable writing advice, including her recommendation of Orson Scott Card's "Characters and Viewpoint" and explains how she learned to write marketable fiction by studying the techniques of successful authors.

Whether you're an aspiring writer, history enthusiast, or simply fascinated by the complexities of human nature, this conversation offers profound insights into how we understand the past and bring it to life through storytelling.

Key Topics Covered:

✓ Historical fiction writing techniques ✓ Point of view mastery for authors ✓ Research methods for historical accuracy ✓ Character development and complexity ✓ The challenge of representing diverse perspectives ✓ Writing lessons from acclaimed authors ✓ Understanding cultural context in history Find Michelle Tori's work: Website: www.metorrey.com Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Bookshop.org Don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the NOTIFICATION bell for more author interviews and writing insights! Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction & Michelle's international upbringing 3:34 - The joy of authentic travel experiences 7:47 - Michelle's early life and return to America 10:50 - Discovering her passion for writing in 5th grade 13:27 - Learning to write through deconstructing novels 15:22 - The critical importance of point of view 17:58 - Christoph Waltz and understanding character perspectives 20:04 - The complexity of writing about slaveholding characters 22:12 - Understanding historical context vs modern judgments 27:17 - What inspired Michelle to write about the Antebellum South 29:01 - The whitewashed plantation tours that sparked her mission 30:16 - The vast spectrum of slave experiences 32:41 - The shocking diary entry that changed everything 38:45 - The degradation of character through ownership 52:01 - Why we can't judge historical figures by today's standards 55:42 - Michelle's advice for aspiring writers on point of view 1:00:46 - Time machine question: Jaguar, Stairway to Heaven, and the future

Trisha shares how her passion for America’s national parks became the heart of her stories, why kids’ books must be fun first (with deeper lessons quietly woven in), and how creativity often comes from “listening” to the characters that show up in your imagination.

We also talk about resilience, adapting when life changes direction, and her calm, grounded outlook on mortality after being diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) at 33.

If you love writing, creativity, children’s books, national parks, or conversations that leave you feeling lighter and more hopeful, you’ll enjoy this one.

Guest and links Trisha’s website: https://triciagardella.com/

Topics we cover Writing picture books that children actually want to read How Mouse became a 12+ book national parks series

Protecting national parks and helping kids care about nature Creativity, ideas, and “letting the story lead” Resilience, detours, and finding joy in each phase of life

HCM, mortality, and a surprisingly peaceful mindset Illustration, collaboration, and how Trisha finds artists

They fail because of broken trust, unspoken resentment, and the conversations nobody wants to have.

In this episode of The David Watson Podcast, I’m joined by Rene Sonneveld, a Dutch executive coach based in Uruguay and author of The Elephant in the Family Room.

Rene works at the intersection of leadership, governance and human psychology, helping family enterprises tackle the real problem underneath the “business problem”: the invisible capital of trust, identity, communication, role clarity and belonging.

We also explore a powerful parallel from my work in head injury rehabilitation: when life changes in an instant, families often grieve the person who was, struggle with who someone is becoming, and collide over expectations, fear and control.

Rene shares a deeply personal story about his first wife’s brain cancer and the question that haunts families in crisis: if they wake up, who will they be?

If you’re navigating family conflict, succession planning, sibling rivalry, inheritance disputes, or tension inside a family-owned business, this conversation will help you understand what’s really happening, why it’s so hard to fix alone, and how honest communication becomes the load-bearing wall that holds everything up.

Key topics in this episode The “elephant in the family room” and why families walk around it for generations

Why family businesses fail relationally, not financially

The hidden drivers beneath conflict: relevance, respect, safety, fairness, belonging

Why governance structures can look perfect but still collapse

How sibling rivalry and old emotional patterns show up as “strategy debates”

Listening vs hearing: what people are telling you vs what they’re trying to tell you

Why bringing in a neutral facilitator can unlock stuck family systems

How Rene went from governance and banking to coaching families worldwide

Writing as a tool for self-awareness, perspective and better leadership

Find Rene and his book Website: https://www.renesonneveld.com/

Book: The Elephant in the Family Room (available on major retailers including Amazon)

If this episode helped you, please consider: Subscribe for more long-form conversations with authors, coaches, entrepreneurs and creatives Like and share to help the podcast reach more people Comment below: what’s the “elephant” people avoid in families, workplaces, or relationships?

Join David Watson for a captivating conversation with author, musician, and master storyteller Jeremy Wagner.

In this episode, Jeremy delves into the creation of his new dark crime novel, "Wretch," shares the fascinating origins of his death metal band Broken Hope, and discusses the profound joy of the creative process.

From the nostalgic magic of vinyl and paperback books to the raw energy of channelling characters, this is a must-listen for anyone passionate about art, music, and writing.

🔔 Don't forget to LIKE and SUBSCRIBE for more incredible conversations!

// TIMESTAMPS //

00:00 - Introduction to Jeremy Wagner and the new novel, "Wretch" 00:41 - The magic of physical media: A love for Bucket of Blood Books and Records 02:14 - Why younger generations are rediscovering vinyl, books, and tangible art 06:17 - The lost art of album covers and the experience of dropping the needle 08:43 - Jeremy's Chicago roots and the formation of Broken Hope in high school 14:57 - The nostalgia of youth: Chasing adventures before the internet and smartphones 19:05 - The creative spark: How Jeremy's love for writing began in grade school 26:52 - The priceless artifact: Jeremy's first storybook from his grandmother 30:11 - Writing lyrics for Broken Hope as "micro horror fiction" 33:23 - The different creative processes for writing songs vs. novels 37:13 - The magic of channelling characters and letting them tell the story 42:40 - The story behind "Wretch": Three converging storylines in a brutal Chicago summer 45:18 - Creating authentic characters with the help of a real Chicago police detective 48:52 - The inspiration for the antagonist, Derek Hoffman, and the horrors of big pharma 52:04 - Crafting the mob boss, Tico Tortellio, and the clash of three storylines 57:07 - The long road to publication: How ideas can haunt you for decades 1:01:07 - Where to find Jeremy Wagner and his work 1:02:39 - Time Machine Question: Mad Max's V8 Interceptor and Slayer's "Reign in Blood"

This episode is a deep dive into the creative mind of Jeremy Wagner. He discusses the launch of his new novel, "Wretch," a gritty dark crime story set in Chicago, and explains how the book's three interconnected storylines were inspired by real people and "what if" scenarios.

Jeremy traces his passion for storytelling back to his childhood, sharing the touching story of his first storybook.

He also details his parallel career as a lyricist for the death metal band Broken Hope, comparing the condensed, punchy nature of writing "micro horror fiction" for songs to the expansive process of novel-writing.

The conversation is a celebration of the creative process, the importance of passion, and the magic that happens when you get out of the way and let the story tell itself.

// KEY TAKEAWAYS // • Jeremy Wagner's new novel, "Wretch," follows a Chicago detective, a chemically-fueled monster, and a mob boss whose stories violently collide. • He believes physical media like vinyl and paperbacks offer a tangible, artistic experience that digital formats can't replicate. • The creative process for Jeremy involves "channelling" his characters, allowing them to surprise him and guide the narrative. • He wrote lyrics for his band Broken Hope for over 30 years, treating them as intense, short-form horror stories. • A great story idea can haunt an author for years, waiting for the right moment to be fully brought to life.

// RESOURCES & LINKS // • Book: "Wretch" by Jeremy Wagner Available through Dead Sky Publishing and major retailers. • Author's Website: jeremyxwagner.com (Find all his books, music from Broken Hope and Earth Burner, and more.) • Social Media: @JeremyXWagner (on all platforms) • Publisher: deadskypublishing.com

Discover the crucial, often overlooked, role Spain played in securing America's final victory at Yorktown. Learn about Francisco de Saavedra, the Spanish diplomat and strategist whose logistical genius and access to Spanish silver were the deciding factors that turned the tide of war.

This is a must-watch for anyone interested in American history, European empires, and the financial realities of warfare.

🔔 Don't forget to LIKE and SUBSCRIBE for more deep dives into history!

00:00 - Introduction to James Kegeler and his book on the American Revolutionary War 00:55 - James's background and what drew him to this history 02:30 - The historical context: The Bourbon Family Compacts and European rivalries 04:27 - The Seven Years' War and its impact on the American Revolution 07:14 - The financial trigger: Britain's taxes and the Boston Tea Party 09:21 - France's strategic goal: Weakening Britain, not just aiding America 11:59 - The military stalemate in North America before 1781 12:07 - The entrance of Spain and the power of the combined Franco-Spanish fleet 16:07 - Spain's strategic advantage: The silver mines of Mexico and the Havana base 18:32 - The importance of the Spanish silver dollar (the piece of eight) 21:03 - The difference between commodity-based money and fiat currency 22:02 - Who was Francisco de Saavedra? Theologian, soldier, and diplomat 26:04 - The critical year of 1781: Saavedra arrives in Havana 27:32 - The De Grasse-Saavedra Convention: A plan to win the war 28:37 - Securing the funds: Saavedra gets 500,000 silver pesos for the French fleet 29:44 - The Siege of Yorktown: How naval supremacy and money sealed Cornwallis's fate 31:57 - The aftermath of Yorktown and the shift in British strategy 40:00 - The Battle of the Saints: A massive naval clash and the failed invasion of Jamaica 45:14 - The Treaty of Paris and the end of the war 46:35 - Saavedra's later career: From Venezuela to the Spanish Court 50:55 - Saavedra's final stand: Leading the defense against Napoleon at the Battle of Bailén 54:19 - Where to find the book "Francisco de Saavedra's American Revolutionary War" 55:26 - James's time machine question

This episode reveals the hidden side of the American Revolution, highlighting the indispensable contributions of Spain and its agent, Francisco de Saavedra.

We explore how the Bourbon Family Compacts allied France and Spain against Britain, setting the stage for their intervention.

The discussion covers the financial motivations behind the war, from Britain's taxation of colonists to Spain's unique advantage of vast silver reserves in Mexico.

The core of the interview focuses on Saavedra's remarkable logistical and diplomatic efforts in 1781, where he unified Spanish and French commanders, secured the vital funds from Havana that financed the French fleet's campaign, and directly enabled the decisive victory at Yorktown.

We also cover Saavedra's fascinating life story, from his unlikely entry into the army to his later role as a national hero in Spain's fight against Napoleon. • The American victory at Yorktown was made possible by a massive loan of 500,000 silver pesos from Spain, secured by Francisco de Saavedra. • The combined French and Spanish navies (around 120 ships) challenged British dominance at sea, a key factor in the war's outcome. • The Spanish silver dollar (piece of eight) was a trusted global currency, unlike the rapidly devaluing American continental paper money. • Francisco de Saavedra was a master diplomat and logistician who resolved rivalries between Spanish and French commanders to create a unified war effort. • The war was as much about finance and draining an opponent's resources as it was about battlefield victories. • Book: "Francisco de Saavedra's American Revolutionary War" by James Giesler

Available on Amazon (.com, .co.uk, .es, etc.) Available in bookshops via Barnes & Noble and Ingram Spark Available as an ebook on major platforms.

• Author's Website: The Book — James Giesler

In this episode, they tackle everything from the universal comfort of cookies and milkshakes to the heavy burdens of self-doubt and financial struggle.

Martin opens up about his hectic life juggling a full-time teaching job, a move, and a second child on the way, all while promoting his latest high-fantasy novel, The Culling of Souls, the sequel to Children of the Dying Hearth.

He shares the profound themes of his Annals of Tessian series, exploring how characters must leave their comfort zones and "cull their souls" to grow.

The discussion then pivots to the harsh realities of the creative world. Martin and David have a raw and honest talk about the challenges of indie publishing, the feeling of creating for an empty stadium, and the constant battle with the question: "What will people think?"

They also dive into broader societal issues, touching on the housing market, the paradox of tolerance, and the state of free speech and politics in the UK and beyond.

This is a must-watch for aspiring authors, fantasy fans, and anyone who has ever questioned their own worth or path in life.

Timestamps: 0:00 - Intro & Martin's Busy Life 1:45 - The Power of Cookies & Milkshakes 7:00 - The Gift That Gets You Out of Trouble 10:16 - The Male Struggle with Self-Worth & Spending 12:36 - David's Story: Bankruptcy and Homelessness 17:08 - Then vs. Now: The Housing Market Crisis 19:00 - The Frugal Path to Home Ownership 24:04 - The Man Who Chose Status Over Freedom 29:58 - The Problem with Class and Status Systems 34:02 - The Japanese Mindset of Service 45:00 - Airport Horror Stories 51:19 - Focusing on the Books! 52:10 - Introducing the Annals of Tessian Series 58:45 - The Theme of Children of the Dying Hearth 1:00:12 - The Theme of The Culling of Souls 1:03:00 - Trauma, Growth, and Using Emotions as a Window 1:09:15 - The Creator's Dilemma: Self-Doubt & The Empty Stadium 1:18:03 - The Gatekeepers of Publishing & The Noise of Indie Authorship 1:25:15 - The Power of a "Body of Work" 1:31:00 - The Humanizing Power of a Conversation 1:49:00 - Tolkien, Politics, and the Real-World Scouring of the Shire 1:55:00 - The State of Free Speech in the UK 2:06:00 - The Epstein Files, Legal Realities, and Systemic Corruption 2:19:50 - A Ruler's True Role: To Serve 2:22:59 - Outro Find Martin's Books: https://martinraynelson.com/

We dive into his new book, "The Culling of Souls," and its predecessor, "Children of the Dying Hearth," exploring the powerful ideas that fuel them.

Martin breaks down how the first book is about the courage to leave your comfort zone—a theme embodied by a teenage boy who might be the heir to a lost empire, a 600-year-old elf who’s still just a kid, and a noble ruler forced to get his hands dirty.

The sequel, "The Culling of Souls," tackles a more internal battle: the painful but necessary act of cutting away the parts of yourself that hold you back, like a traumatic memory that no longer has to define your tomorrow.

This isn't just a book talk; it's a raw look into the heart of an indie author.

Martin opens up about the crushing self-doubt that comes with asking people to buy your work, the frustration of hitting a wall with gatekeepers and expensive (and sometimes useless) editorial reviews, and the overwhelming noise of 4,000+ books published every single day.

He shares the "empty stadium" feeling of creating incredible work with no crowd watching, and the crucial difference between an athlete's measurable "personal best" and a creator's invisible race.

But the conversation is also filled with hope and hard-won wisdom.

They discuss the power of building a "body of work" and waiting for that one brick to be knocked out of the wall, as described by podcaster Dan Carlin, so the people on the other side can finally see you.

Martin shares stories from the band Stereophonics about how their biggest hit was a song they almost threw away, proving that sometimes you just have to keep showing up.

They also touch on the practical side of book promotion, debating the merits of targeted Amazon ads versus scattergun PR and the hilarious potential (and pitfalls) of using AI to create promotional videos.

If you're a writer, artist, or anyone trying to create something meaningful, this episode is a must-watch.

It's a testament to the idea that even if the stadium is empty, you have to lace up your boots and run the race anyway—because the only thing you can control is showing up for tomorrow.

Timestamps:

0:00 - The Indie Author's Dilemma 1:09 - Introducing Martin R. Nelson & "The Annals of Tessian" 2:18 - The Theme of "Children of the Dying Hearth": Leaving Your Comfort Zone 4:45 - The 600-Year-Old Elf: A Fun Fantasy Trope 6:00 - The Honorable Ruler Who Needs to Get His Hands Dirty 8:14 - The Bilbo Baggins Principle: No Hero's Journey from an Armchair 9:07 - "The Culling of Souls": Cutting Away What Holds You Back 11:13 - The Trauma That Defines You vs. The Trauma You Learn From 14:34 - Emotions Are a Window to the Soul 16:11 - The Truman Show: How Trauma Traps You 17:02 - The Universal Struggle: Jesus, Buddha, and Marcus Aurelius 18:36 - The Crushing Self-Doubt of Selling Your Own Work 20:11 - The Joe Rogan Comparison & The Empty Stadium 22:50 - The Athlete's "Personal Best" vs. The Creator's Invisible Race 24:02 - Van Gogh, Bob Ross & Finding Success After You're Gone 26:25 - The Power of a Good Conversation (and Respecting Boundaries) 29:01 - The Stereophonics Story: "Just Some Shit" Becomes a Hit 32:13 - Dan Carlin's "Wall" Theory & the Body of Work 34:39 - The Gatekeepers: Agents, Publishers, and 4,000 Daily Books 38:10 - The $700 Kirkus Review That Was Total Garbage 40:06 - AI Video Promotion: Hilarious Failures & Huge Potential 43:56 - Amazon Ads: Targeting the Right Niche 45:05 - The Power of the "Everyman" Podcast 48:06 - Turning Up the Volume for the RIGHT People 51:00 - The Fascination with the "Everyman" in History 52:28 - How You Can Support Indie Authors

Martin https://martinraynelson.com/

Our conversation spans from the majestic coastlines and whale migrations to the deep, often painful corridors of the human mind.

We begin by discussing the simple, awe-inspiring power of nature—watching grey whales migrate off the coast and the profound connection to the wild.

This leads us into a much deeper exploration of trauma, healing, and the moral injury that shapes lives.

Peter, drawing on his extensive career in medicine and military service during the Vietnam era, shares the inspiration behind his novel.

We tackle the complex legacy of the Vietnam War, contrasting its cultural portrayal with the grim reality of combat and the unique challenges veterans faced upon returning home.

The discussion expands to a critical look at modern society, technology, and generational divides.

We explore how the rise of smartphones has stripped away the boredom that fuels curiosity, the dehumanizing effects of constant connectivity, and the challenge of finding hope in a world saturated with negativity.

This is a conversation about resilience, courage, and the quiet acts of kindness that provide a lifeline to those at their lowest point.

We discuss the importance of human connection, the foundations of Western democracy, and the hope that is essential for us to achieve amazing things.

In this episode, we explore: The inspiration and themes behind Peter's novel, Passages: The Voids from War to Peace.

The cultural and psychological impact of the Vietnam War on a generation.

How technology has changed our capacity for boredom, curiosity, and deep thought. The generational shifts in perspective on patriotism, society, and trauma.

The profound power of human connection and hope in the face of adversity.

The courage and resilience found in everyday people confronting extraordinary challenges.

Peter https://www.pkedgewater.com/

You can find Peter's book, Passages: The Voids from War to Peace, on Amazon and through Ingram Spark. David Watson Podcast

In this revealing conversation, author and writing coach April Dávila sits down with David Watson to share the transformative practice that helped her go from struggling writer to published author.

April discovered that the key wasn't more discipline, but mindfulness.

By training her brain to focus, silence the inner critic, and treat writing with the respect it deserves, she unlocked a new level of productivity and joy in her craft.

This isn't about writing more; it's about suffering less while you do it. In this episode, we dive deep into:

The #1 Myth of Writer's Block: What's really stopping you from putting words on the page (and it's not a lack of ideas).

The Power of a Scheduled Appointment: Why treating your writing time like a non-negotiable meeting is the ultimate productivity hack.

How to Silence Your Inner Critic: A simple mindfulness technique to recognize that critical voice as just another thought and keep writing anyway.

The Surprising Role of Meditation: How a short pre-writing ritual can get you into a deep flow state faster and more consistently.

Why "Bad" First Drafts are Essential: The truth about rewriting and why you must embrace imperfection to create something great.

Building Unbreakable Writing Habits: How to stop practicing the art of procrastination and start practicing the art of showing up.

Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting to think about writing a book, this interview is packed with actionable advice that will change the way you approach your work.

Timestamps: (00:00) - Introduction & April's Family History in California (09:31) - The Real Reason We Write: April's Writing Manifesto (14:18) - Why Writing to "Teach a Lesson" Fails (16:06) - David's Personal Story: Writing from the Heart (18:57) - Overcoming "Writer's Block": It's Not What You Think (23:28) - April's Journey: From Science to Writing (24:35) - The Mindfulness Breakthrough That Changed Everything (29:26) - The Ritual: How to Get Your Brain Ready to Write (31:49) - The Science of Setting an Intention (33:17) - Your Habits are a Restaurant: Are You Ordering the Right Thing? (35:21) - April's Upcoming Book: "sit. right. here." (36:23) - Dealing with Imposter Syndrome (Even for Bestselling Authors) (39:25) - Turning Family History into Compelling Fiction (41:11) - The Art of the Romance Story (44:42) - Why Not Everyone Will Love Your Book (And That's OK) (45:43) - The Surprising Dark Side of Roald Dahl (48:01) - The Lost Art of Making a Living from Short Stories (51:39) - Where to Find April Dávila (51:51) - The Time Machine Question Guest: April Davila Book and resources: SitRightHere.com April online: Aprila.com and @AprilDavila

Things usually get worse." She refused to accept that. In this powerful conversation, Dr. Theresa Lions shares her journey from the pharmaceutical industry to becoming a leading autism advocate.

We dive deep into the science that mainstream doctors often miss, including the shocking data that a percentage of children actually lose their diagnosis, and the concrete steps parents can take to find answers.

This isn't about a "cure." It's about understanding the root causes, from gut health and vitamin deficiencies to the complex biochemistry of the brain.

If you or someone you know is affected by autism, this episode is a must-watch for hope, clarity, and a new path forward.

TIMESTAMPS / KEY CHAPTERS:

0:00 - The Biggest Misconception About Autism

3:55 - Why I Struggle to Communicate With My Autistic Nephew

5:05 - The Real Reason for "Yes/No" Answers (It's Not What You Think)

7:23 - The Secret Jokes of Non-Speaking Autistic Kids

10:42 - "Things Get Worse, Not Better": The Devastating Diagnosis

12:55 - The 10% Statistic That Changed Everything

16:07 - From Yale Scientist to Autism Advocate: The Turning Point

18:34 - Why Big Pharma Isn't Solving Autism

20:49 - The "Dharma" That Forced Her Onto YouTube

25:46 - The First Step for Any Overwhelmed Parent

29:12 - The Simple Blood Test That Can Dramatically Improve Mood & Sleep

31:06 - The #1 Diet Change That Helps Most Kids with Autism

35:31 - What Actually Causes Autism? The Answer Will Surprise You

38:07 - The Brain Folate Deficiency Affecting 70% of Kids

40:26 - Is Autism an Identity or a Diagnosis?

42:08 - The Trauma of Watching a Child Harm Themselves

44:33 - A New Way to Communicate with Non-Speaking Individuals

45:54 - Find Dr. Theresa Lions' Resources

Connect with Dr. Theresa Lions: https://awetism.net/

YouTube    / @navigatingawetism  

Website & Platform: https://navigatingautism.com (spelled A-U-T-I-S-M)

YouTube: Search "Teresa Lions" for over a decade of science-backed autism videos. Follow the David Watson Podcast for more deep conversations that challenge the status quo.

We start with the Tom Bigby River, a Choctaw-named river with an unexpected meaning, and quickly move into the deeper theme of the conversation: how much extraordinary history sits right on your doorstep, hidden in plain sight, until someone starts digging.

Shannon explains how Tom Bigby Tales began as a response to local frustration, public money, and accountability, and how that investigative work eventually evolved into history storytelling through cemetery walks, public records, archives, and local research.

The result is a growing collection of stories about inventors, war heroes, designers, community figures, and local legends that often turn out to be more complicated (or more surprising) than the versions people repeat.

We also talk about Mississippi’s “tangible history” and how personal memory connects to major historical eras, including Prohibition, Civil War aftermath, local myths around stately homes, the Dixie Mafia, bootlegging networks, and the way communities create stories that sound great but don’t always stand up to evidence.

Along the way, Shannon shares examples of remarkable people connected to her hometown, including:

• local links to the Dixie Mafia and the bootlegging era • aviation stories and military history, including Tuskegee Airmen • women connected to major inventions and public health advances • the hidden social history inside stately homes and preserved architecture • why cemeteries can be one of the most honest records of a community

If you enjoy history, local mysteries, and real stories backed by research, you’ll enjoy this episode.

Find Shannon / Tom Bigby Tales YouTube: Tomigby Tales Website: tomigbytales.com Podcast: available on major podcast platforms Substack: Shannon Evans (local governance, grift, and graft)

Chapters / timestamps 0:00 Intro 0:30 Tom Bigby River and the Choctaw meaning 2:29 Why Tom Bigby Tales started (public records, local frustration) 5:13 Cemetery walks, one-minute videos, and going viral 7:18 Incredible local lives hiding in plain sight 9:27 Stately homes, local myths, and what research really shows 19:15 The Dixie Mafia, bootlegging, and how it really worked 23:33 Tangible history in America vs ancient history in the UK 26:43 How the YouTube channel began and evolved 29:53 Unexpected and tragic stories from the cemetery archives 37:01 Family history, treaties, and Mississippi settlement 41:30 Post-Civil War changes, rebuilding, and new communities 43:19 Where to find Shannon 44:06 Time machine question 45:01 What to visit in Columbus, Mississippi 45:46 Closing

Barbara explains how she first became fascinated with Lola through her research while writing a novel about Frida Kahlo, and why del Río stood out as a striking contrast to Kahlo’s bold, shocking public persona.

We explore Lola’s elegance, discipline, resilience, and the obstacles she faced moving between Mexico and Hollywood during a period shaped by silent films, the arrival of “talkies,” studio marketing, and changing political attitudes in America.

We also discuss how Hollywood attempted to “rebrand” del Río for US audiences, the realities of the era’s anti-miscegenation attitudes on screen, and how del Río navigated identity, roles, and opportunity as the industry changed.

Barbara shares how del Río’s career evolved as audiences became more xenophobic in the lead-up to war, and why returning to Mexico ultimately opened a new chapter during the Golden Age of Mexican cinema, including work connected to films that helped put Mexican cinema on the international map.

One of the most powerful parts of this episode is a lesser-known side of del Río: her philanthropic work to improve childcare for working women in Mexico’s theatre and film communities, and how that effort helped create a real system of early-years care rather than simple “holding centres.”

We also talk about Barbara’s wider writing life, from academia and teaching Spanish theatre to her work supporting US student veterans, and how themes of war, loss, and the unseen “carnage at home” shape her books.

Guest: Barbara Muhika Website: barbaramujica.com Books mentioned include: Miss Del Rio, Freda, Sister Teresa, I Am Venus, and more (available on Amazon).

Chapters / timestamps 0:00 Intro 0:46 Why Barbara can talk for hours about Dolores del Río 1:32 Del Río vs Frida Kahlo: two very different public personas 4:06 Early marriage, loss, and resilience 6:40 The move to Hollywood and early stardom 8:01 The “Latin lover” era and Hollywood image-making 10:19 Race, studios, and how del Río was marketed 13:49 Talkies and why del Río survived the transition 15:46 Xenophobia, war years, and career decline 19:11 Return to Mexico and the Golden Age of Mexican cinema 23:06 Del Río’s childcare legacy and philanthropy 27:10 Writing the novel: why Barbara invented a narrator 36:04 Barbara’s writing background and academic career 41:03 Veterans work, women in war, and the stories not shown on film 46:39 Where to find Barbara’s books and website 48:07 The time machine question (India, Istanbul, Iraq, and audiobooks) 50:57 Closing thoughts

In this episode of The David Watson Podcast, I speak with author Steven Ford about his novels No Free Speech for Hate and Destiny of a Free Spirit two books that explore political polarisation, identity ideology, free speech, and the future of human control.

Steven’s work isn’t about taking sides.

It’s about asking uncomfortable questions: why modern societies are fragmenting into echo chambers, why disagreement is increasingly treated as moral failure, and what happens when institutions stop tolerating dissent.

We also explore artificial intelligence, post-war global governance, and whether humanity is drifting toward a world that prioritises control and efficiency over freedom and human instinct.

This is a calm, thoughtful conversation about human nature, history repeating itself, and the risks of pushing any belief system too far whether political, technological, or ideological.

In this conversation: • Why political polarisation keeps accelerating • How ideology begins to resemble religion • Free speech, hate speech, and who defines the line • Why echo chambers destroy dialogue • The danger of cancelling dissent • The pendulum effect in politics and history • Artificial intelligence as a future governing force • Control versus freedom in human societies • What history teaches us about power and belief

Steven Ford online:

Website: stevenford.co.uk Books available via major online retailers

Danielle works in the wine and spirits industry, travels extensively, and brings a refreshing outsider’s perspective to parenting not as a parent, but as a highly observant aunt who understands human behaviour, boundaries, and why over-controlling rarely works.

We talk about why kids need space to breathe, how parenting parallels wine making more than people realise, and why humour may be the most underused parenting tool of all.

Along the way, the conversation moves through wine culture, travel, creativity, dating, modern social habits, and how life looked very different before phones ran everything.

This is a light, thoughtful, and genuinely funny conversation that doesn’t pretend parenting is perfect or that adults have it all figured out either.

In this conversation:

• Why parenting advice doesn’t need to be heavy to be useful • How wine terminology maps surprisingly well onto child development • Why kids need space, mistakes, and independence • Being an aunt (or uncle) and seeing behaviour more clearly • Working in wine and spirits for a global luxury brand • Travel, storytelling, and why place matters • Dating, phones, and what social skills we’ve lost • Why humour helps people hear difficult truths Danielle online: Book: The Wine Lover’s Guide to Parenting Available via Amazon and Barnes & Noble Website: daniellefrankauthor.com Instagram: @createagreatstory

In this episode of The David Watson Podcast, I’m joined by Angie Elita Newell, an Indigenous historian and author, to talk about the part of Canadian history many people outside Canada (and even inside Canada) were never properly taught: residential schools, forced assimilation policies, and why these stories aren’t just “the past” for Indigenous communities.

Angie shares her own family experience, explains how government policies evolved over time, and why it matters to talk about history in a way that’s honest, nuanced, and human.

We also explore what gets simplified in mainstream history, how stereotypes form, and how we move forward without erasing what happened.

This is a conversation about Canada, Indigenous history, and the reality that modern history can still be living history. In this conversation:

• What residential schools were, and why they lasted so long • The shift from removing children to placing them in non-Indigenous homes (Sixties Scoop) • Why Indigenous history in North America is complex, not black and white • The long shadow of colonial policy in modern life • How to talk about history without becoming trapped in bitterness • Why learning the truth changes how you see the present Angie online:

Website: www.angieelitanewell.com/all-i-see-is-violence Chapters: 00:00 Intro: “I didn’t know this history” 01:31 Angie’s background and becoming a historian 02:43 Residential schools explained 03:58 Family impact and child removal policies 06:19 “This is recent” (70s, 80s, 90s) 09:21 Why Indigenous history is “Swiss cheese” and deeply nuanced 10:40 Making history accessible, not just academic 14:31 Why these policies still matter today 15:41 Acknowledging history instead of “separating” it 17:01 Stereotypes vs reality of Indigenous civilizations 18:12 “Most people in the UK don’t know this exists” 21:53 Museums, archaeology, and what gets taken 22:45 Stonehenge, Avebury, and layered history 24:35 The colonial blueprint isn’t new 26:04 The “apocalypse” framing and what gets lost 30:19 Death before dishonour and last stands 32:50 Female warriors written out of history 35:18 “This is still in the 21st century” 36:23 Modern harms and why it hits like a punch 39:51 Governments, hypocrisy, and denial 41:58 Arrests for resisting school removal 43:01 Reservations, rations, dependency, and urban relocation 45:09 American Indian Movement and Wounded Knee 46:14 How England changed Angie’s opportunities 48:26 Middle ground vs extremes 50:10 “There isn’t a right answer, only what we do next” 51:23 Letting history inform tomorrow, not poison it 52:12 Tangible history and living memory 55:24 Custer, contradiction, and the tragedy of Little Bighorn 57:08 Oral history, archives, and building the novel 59:05 The Guernsey/Jersey film example and complexity 1:02:07 Where to find Angie and the book 1:03:10 Time machine question: DeLorean, Chichester, Led Zeppelin 1:04:25 Closing reflections

In this episode of The David Watson Podcast, Bob and Tammy Cranston share a rare and genuinely uplifting story about love after loss: how grief brought them into the same room, how a simple “new normal” list turned into ballroom dancing, and how laughter returned for the first time after death.

Tammy also shares the journey of caring for a spouse with stage four cancer, why she became a hospice bereavement volunteer, and what she learned from listening to people at the end of life.

Bob, a neurologist, speaks openly about losing his wife and what it means to move forward without erasing the love that came before.

This conversation is about grief, faith, starting over, and what it looks like when a new relationship honours the old one instead of competing with it.

In this conversation:

• How they met through a hospice-sponsored grief support group • The moment laughter returned (and the guilt that followed) • “You can’t go back, you can’t stay here — you must go forward” • Why bitterness can destroy you (and how they avoided it) • The power of a blank journal and living intentionally • Their tandem bicycle adventures across the USA • How to love again without forgetting the person you lost Where to find Tammy and their books:

Website: tammycranston.com Books mentioned include: Why Not Me (memoir) and The Blank Journal (plus a children’s series on grief).

Chapters: 00:00 Introduction: two losses, one love story 00:39 How they met in grief support 02:00 Tammy’s story: divorce, remarriage, cancer, hospice 03:57 Bob’s story: loss, reading grief books, joining the group 05:09 The “matchmaking” that wasn’t planned 06:36 Creating a new normal: the list that changed everything 07:22 Ballroom dancing begins 09:04 The first laugh after loss (and the guilt) 09:49 “Are we meeting as friends or is this a date?” 11:03 Choosing health: counselling and compatibility results 12:33 Family blessing and a wedding built around dancing 13:32 “Life is for the living” 14:19 The blank journal and building a shared bucket list @ 15:36 Tumour news, perspective, and living intentionally 20:17 Adventures after marriage: tandem biking and memory-making 24:02 Turning the journey into a book 26:15 Bear territory, wrong directions, and the shortcut decision 29:49 Avoiding bitterness through faith 31:06 “Why not me?” and finding meaning after loss 34:57 What dying people regret most 37:19 The Blank Journal as a film-worthy story 41:48 Fear of loving and losing again 42:39 Honouring former partners without competition 44:13 The burial plot story: four lives, one shared respect 47:36 Children’s books that help kids understand grief 49:37 Where to find them and their work 50:20 Time machine question 54:10 Closing reflection: take the leap of faith

What if the most painful memories of your life never actually happened?

In this episode of The David Watson Podcast, I speak with novelist and former film script supervisor Timothy J. Hunt about one of the most disturbing psychological questions imaginable: if memories can be implanted, altered, or reinforced by authority figures, how do you know your past is real?

Timothy’s latest novel, The Museum of Lies, explores the terror of discovering that a therapist connected to “recovered memory therapy” may have implanted false trauma.

If your identity is built on memory, and memory itself is unreliable, what happens when the foundation starts to collapse?

This conversation begins in the world of film continuity

A job dedicated to preserving the illusion of reality and slowly moves into darker territory: gaslighting, childhood trauma, mental illness, false memories, and the quiet horror of doubting your own mind.

We talk about:

• How recovered memory therapy led to false abuse cases

• Why memory is reconstruction, not playback

• Growing up around mental illness and extreme gaslighting

• What happens to identity when your past can’t be proven

• Why journaling can become a form of psychological self-defence

Despite the subject matter, this is a dark conversation with laughter.

Honest, unsettling, and deeply human.

Chapters 00:01 Introduction: “dark conversation with laughter” 00:56 What a script supervisor actually does (continuity) 04:27 The invisible job: you only notice it when it fails 07:00 “It takes a slightly crazy person” (the personality fit) 08:08 Finding the job at 50 and why it became the perfect role 10:10 Why Timothy stepped away from set life (the reality of 16–18 hour days) 14:46 The Museum of Lies: what the novel is and why it’s different 17:36 The disturbing cover: why the child is dressed as the devil 19:09 Childhood, “normal,” and growing up around mental illness 24:17 Appalachian roots in California and feeling like an outsider 31:34 The core premise: good fortune, terrible life, and doubt 33:27 Recovered memory therapy and the fear of implanted memories 37:36 The psychological horror: “Are my memories even mine?” 39:31 How memory actually works (reconstruction, not playback) 41:25 Gaslighting, shared memories, and journaling as a defence 44:17 Borderline personality disorder and public masks vs private reality 47:31 Forgiveness, empathy, and realising parents were struggling too 49:00 Growing up gay in the 60s and the lack of a frame of reference 53:34 Coming into yourself as AIDS begins 56:30 The stigma in the 90s and “they’ll die” (a real quote from a landlord) 1:01:38 Memory lane, the joke that lands: “Who knows if that was even real?” 1:01:53 Where to find the book and Timothy’s work 1:03:05 The time machine question: the car, the future, and the radio 1:05:05 Closing reflection: if “false memories” are discovered, that’s its own abuse

Guest: Timothy J. Hunt Book: The Museum of Lies (Clink Street Publishing). Where to find Timothy and the book Website: jtimothyhunt.com

We talk about: how Monty wrote Metropolis after a 16-year pause, then finished hundreds of pages in months why “writer’s block” is often fear, avoidance, or waiting for perfection the one-page rule (and how hunger can be a surprisingly effective motivator) finding your voice as a writer, and why “well-written” isn’t the same as “distinctive” the craft of writing difficult subject matter without losing the human truth why most friends and family don’t read your work (and why that’s normal) music vs novels, and Monty’s process of writing melodies first, then lyrics the idea behind Unders City: an alternate-history society shaped by eugenics, purge, and survival underground

If you write, want to write, or you’re fascinated by how artists build worlds that reflect real human history, this one will stay with you.

Monty’s books and websites: Metropolis: metropolisthebook.com Unders City (release date discussed in the episode): underscitythebook.com

If you found this useful: subscribe for more long-form conversations with writers, creators, and thinkers share this episode with a writer who’s stuck and needs a push to get words on the page comment with the biggest takeaway you’re applying this week

We explore Lee’s remarkable life story (Paris after WWII, childhood in India, and returning to America in the early 1960s), and how a global upbringing shaped her obsession with language, sound, texture, and colour.

From Van Gogh’s sunflower yellow to the psychology of colour in different cultures, Lee breaks down how she researches, builds, and performs poems, and why poetry is less about “feelings” and more about precision, observation, and lived experience.

Lee also reads from her work, including “Provocative Pink” and a short rhyming piece “Shades of Anger,” and we talk about how colour, culture, and perception can shift what we think we’re seeing.

If you enjoy conversations about creativity, perception, art, writing, and the deeper layers of everyday life, this one is for you.

Find Lee Woodman here: poetleewoodman.com

Dr Sherry McAlister explains why touch, sleep, and small daily choices can change how you feel, think, and cope.

In this episode, I speak with Dr Sherry McAlister, a chiropractor and author of Adjusted Reality, about why modern life pulls us away from the basics that keep us well — and why most people outsource their health until something breaks.

We discuss:

Why health isn’t a to-do list, it’s a daily way of being

The overlooked power of touch and human connection

Why your nervous system can’t “close the loop” after ghosting and unresolved stress

How sleep works like a nightly reset and repair process

Why your body adapts like Jenga — until it can’t

The mindset shift from “what’s wrong with you?” to “what’s right that we can build on?”

Later in the conversation, she shares the personal turning point that led her into chiropractic care after a serious car accident — and why she believes small “micro adjustments” can stop bigger breakdowns over time.

Book: Adjusted Reality: Supercharge Your Whole Being for Optimal Living and Longevity Guest: Dr Sherry McAlister Website: https://drsherrymcallister.com/

Foundation page: https://www.f4cp.org/media/

This episode is for education and discussion. It is not medical advice. If you have symptoms or concerns, seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.

If you’ve ever had a concussion or unexplained mental changes, this matters.

In this episode, I speak with William Person, a former Team USA bobsled athlete who began experiencing confusion, memory problems, and severe brain fog in his 30s.

For years, medical tests showed “nothing wrong.” Meanwhile, his symptoms worsened, teammates died, and the warning signs were missed — including the long-term effects of repeated head trauma.

William explains:

Why concussion symptoms can appear months or years later How high-impact sports and vibration affect the brain

Why many people don’t realise something is wrong with them The difference between mental health struggles and physical brain injury

What he says helped him regain clarity after years of decline

Why this issue may affect athletes, veterans, and everyday people

This conversation is intense, personal, and uncomfortable at times — but it raises questions many people are afraid to ask.

This episode is not medical advice. It shares personal experience and opinion.

If you have concerns about head injury, concussion, or neurological symptoms, speak with a qualified medical professional.

Guest: William Person Social media: One Man With A Chamber

In this episode I sit down with author and former sports broadcaster Peter Young (authopeteryoung.com) to talk about his 20–year journey in and out of a tiny but devastating religious cult – led by a man his family called “Uncle Robert”.

We talk about how it all began with love, faith and a “harmless” family mentor… and slowly turned into total control, brainwashing and the destruction of Peter’s marriage.

Peter shares how his children were taught he was “the devil”, how isolation and secrecy kept everyone trapped, and the moment a small flicker of doubt finally broke the spell.

Along the way we get into: – How Peter was slowly drawn into his wife’s tiny religious cult – The red flags he missed, and why “it could never happen to me” is so dangerous

The role of isolation, doubt and the “gatekeeper to God” in every cult

How cult leaders twist scripture, truth and genuine problems to sell their own solutions

The impact on his kids and the painful campaign of parental alienation

How his Christian faith survived, and why he believes Jesus pulled him out

My own brush with a meditation group that turned out to be far darker than it first appeared If you’ve ever thought “I’m too smart for a cult” or wondered how ordinary, intelligent people get swept up in these groups, this conversation will challenge you.

Listen in for a raw, honest look at manipulation, control, faith, pain and recovery and what to watch for if you (or someone you love) is getting drawn into something that feels “just a bit off”.

Find Peter Young: Website: https://authorpeteryoung.com

Memoir: “Stop the Tall Man, Save the Tiger” (cult survival and faith) Fiction series:

“The Blue Team” and “The Wardrobe of the Wolf” (sports as a metaphor for life)

Peter has written 10 rhyming picture books for children about Fred the Snake and his friends, including the brand-new “When Fred the Snake and Friends Learn the Chinese Zodiac – and the Great Race”.

We talk about how a career pioneering flexible endoscopy and ERCP became the unexpected inspiration for a gentle snake who teaches road safety, friendship, travel, and courage to kids and grandkids around the world.

In this conversation we cover:

• How a flexible endoscope became “Fred the Snake” and the start of a bedtime story

• Turning that original road-safety rhyme into the first book, “When Fred the Snake Got Squished and Mended”

• Why all the Fred books are written in rhyme and built around simple morals for children

• The new Chinese Zodiac book and the story of the Great Race – explaining years, animals and culture to kids

• Fred going to school, camping, the beach and traveling across the USA (East, Central and West) • The difference between writing scientific papers and imaginative children’s books

• What Peter has learned about confidence, voice and “writing what you’re actually good at”

• Grandparents, puppets and why reading to children still matters in a digital world

• Growing up in Herefordshire, training at Cambridge and in London, and why he moved to the USA

• Life on a small island in South Carolina, golf stories from around the world, and finally “hanging up” the clubs

• Reflections on retirement, legacy, family and finding a second creative career later in life If you’re a parent, grandparent, educator or aspiring children’s author, this episode is full of ideas about how to combine fun, rhyme and gentle life lessons in stories for young readers.

Find Peter Cotton and Fred the Snake:

Website (signed copies, blog and resources):

https://petercottontales.com

Fred the Snake books on Amazon (search): “Peter B. Cotton Fred the Snake”

Amy explains how Jelly Bean’s world tackles topics like poverty, mixed-race identity, bullying at school, and the tensions between caring parents, independent children, and wise grandparents.

We talk about how parental prejudice can show up in subtle ways, how kids learn to think for themselves, and why grandparents often bring a calming, long-view perspective into family life.

Amy also shares powerful stories from her own family history: growing up with parents and grandparents shaped by the Great Depression, what real poverty looked like, and how those experiences inspired the characters and emotional depth in her books.

We explore why writing can be so therapeutic, how authors pour their own doubts and memories into fictional characters, and why Jelly Bean has become a “real role model” for so many young readers.

If you are a parent, grandparent, teacher, or simply love children’s books that make kids think, you’ll enjoy this short, thoughtful conversation with Amy about empathy, resilience, and the messy reality of growing up.

In this episode we talk about: The Jelly Bean series and what each book explores Why Amy keeps the titles simple and clear How Jelly Bean deals with friendship, class, and mixed-race identity

Bullying in schools and how Jelly Bean responds in book four Parents’ fears, stereotypes, and trying to “protect” their children

The role of grandparents as listeners, guides and stabilising influences Amy’s own parents and grandparents, poverty in the Depression era, and “Sunday best” shoes

How writing helps us process grief, memory and complicated emotions

Why Jelly Bean ended up being called a real role model

Find Amy Pollack and the Jelly Bean books: Website: https://amypollack.com

We start with his life as a foreign correspondent in the 70s, 80s and 90s – Paris, Beirut, Egypt, India, China under Deng Xiaoping – what he calls “the front row of history.”

From there we dig into how news used to be gathered, the craft of great writing and editing, and why trust in media has eroded in the 24-hour news and social media age.

Then we move into the future: asteroid mining, the coming space economy, gene editing, AI, robots in every home, universal basic income, and the huge ethical questions around who owns life, data and even our memories.

Jeremy explains how all of this feeds into his sci-fi series and why he thinks the next few decades will be truly transformational for humanity. If you like deep, nostalgic conversations that run from smoky newsrooms and outside toilets in 60s Britain to Neurolink, space vaults and sentient robots, this one’s for you.

What we talk about in this episode: Growing up in post-war Britain and the “you’ve never had it so good” generation Training as a Reuters journalist and reporting from Paris, Beirut, Egypt, India, Indonesia, China and beyond How newsrooms used to work: deadlines, teleprinters, foreign bureaus and serious editors

The rise of 24-hour news and why verification and integrity became harder to protect Fake or distorted reporting, “agenda-driven” editing and why audiences now have to be their own filter

Moving from Reuters to the IMF and learning the craft of book and research publishing Why asteroid mining, the moon and the space economy could upend global wealth and power Seeds, gene editing and “who owns life?” – the core themes of Space Vault AI, robots, Neurolink and grief tech: talking to digital versions of loved ones Universal basic income, surplus labour and the tension between human nature and technological change

Why Jeremy chose sci-fi instead of spy thrillers – and how his reporting past shapes his fiction 0:00 Intro – why I wanted Jeremy on the podcast

0:41 Jeremy joins the show

3:41 Old order vs new order in politics and journalism

10:04 Childhood in post-war Britain and moving around with the Navy

17:06 Learning journalism at Reuters and early foreign postings

24:30 Trust, manipulation and the 24-hour news cycle

32:40 From Reuters to the IMF and into publishing

34:24 Born In Space – space labs, children and identity

39:18 Space Vault, seed banks and “who owns life?”

45:40 AI, robots, grief tech and ethics

52:05 Universal basic income and the future of work

59:44 Where to find Jeremy and his books

1:01:15 Closing thoughts Find Jeremy and his work:

Website: jeremycliftebooks.com

Books: “Born in Space” and “Space Vault” (available on Amazon and wider retailers) Audiobook: Born in Space on Audible, narrated by Gabrielle Gums Gordon

We dive into what it really feels like to be a high-energy performer who feels most at peace on stage, and yet wrestles with anxiety, overthinking, and self-doubt when the lights go down.

Jaymes talks about growing up between Toronto and London, discovering his love of performance, developing his iconic glam style in Camden, and why he finally went “all in” on music after trying the conventional path of college and day jobs.

We also explore the link between alter egos, addiction, and creativity, how art can channel pain into something powerful, and why staying busy and taking action is one of the most underrated tools for managing mental health and negative inner voices.

If you’re into glam rock, performance, or honest conversations about mental health, anxiety, and what it means to be truly yourself, you’ll get a lot from this one.

Hot Apollo https://hotapollorocks.com

Born and raised in Belfast during The Troubles, later serving as a police officer in Australia and now working as a criminal defence lawyer in Sydney, Liam brings three decades of frontline experience to his new crime novel about police corruption, culture and power.

We talk about: Growing up in Belfast during The Troubles and how violence, secrecy and “sides” shape your view of the world Moving to Sydney, joining the police, then switching sides to become a criminal defence lawyer

How “small” perks and favours blur into full-blown corruption over time

The hidden subcultures inside police forces and what really changes good officers into “bad apples”

Royal commissions, systemic corruption and why the public is always shocked, despite years of warning signs

The role of the press: what gets exposed, what gets buried and why some scandals never make front-page news

Grooming gangs, cover-ups and why certain crimes seem untouchable

Free will, social conditioning and why class, background and opportunity shape the choices we think we’re making

Friday night violence, “accidental crime” and how one split second can destroy multiple lives

Liam’s novel is a work of fiction, but it is built on real-world experience of policing, wiretaps, court briefs and decades inside the criminal justice system.

If you have ever wondered where the line really is between “perk of the job” and corruption, this conversation will give you plenty to think about.

Find out more about Liam and his book Publisher: Austin Macauley (UK) https://www.austinmacauley.com/book/b...

In this episode of the David Watson Podcast, we dive into the messy, funny, painful, and beautiful reality of second chances and reinvention.

We talk about what it was really like for a woman on SportsCenter in the 80s and 90s, working as the only female official on football fields and baseball diamonds, living between Phoenix and St Croix in the US Virgin Islands, and how losing her TV career led her into classrooms, foster care, and novels about war, cults, and trauma.

We also get personal about my own journey: court, bankruptcy, community service, head injury rehab work, and how both of us discovered meaning through helping other people when our original plans fell apart.

If you’re into stories of resilience, women in sports media, teaching, foster care, and the creative life, this one’s for you.

What we cover in this conversation:

– Life in St Croix and Phoenix

– Breaking into sports broadcasting when women “didn’t do that”

– ESPN, ageism, and being told she was “too old” for TV

– Forty years as a sports official in football and baseball

– Being the only woman on the field and in the newsroom

– Punctuality, discipline, and why being late really is disrespectful

– Hitting rock bottom after TV and facing depression

– The Vietnam veteran umpire who changed how she saw her life

– Teaching in a Title I school and discovering real hardship

– Becoming a foster mum to five former students

– Dyslexia, learning to read late, and still becoming an author

– Writing about World War II, religious cults, and trauma

– How to handle criticism, bad reviews, and online comments

– Second chances, stubborn pride, and finding purpose in unexpected work

About Anne Montgomery

Anne Montgomery is a former ESPN SportsCenter anchor, long-time sports official (football, baseball, ice hockey, soccer, basketball), retired high school teacher, foster mum, and author of multiple novels including historical fiction and contemporary stories inspired by real events.

Find Anne here: Website: https://annemontgomerywriter.com/

Former reality-TV producer/post producer (Survivor, Hell’s Kitchen) • Children’s author and poet focused on short, memorable, rhyming pieces • Classroom collaborator: students illustrated “An Awesome Bird: The Pelican” • Also co-authored a baseball history volume and wrote the memoir “Dave and Me”

Guest site: https://rustyaustin.com

We dig into what separates top performers, how pros actually warm up, the realities of injury prevention, and how to train smarter at any age.

What you’ll learn

• The team behind elite athletes: medical, technical, logistics, and psychology

• Mental skills that separate final-roster athletes: consistency, flexibility, handling failure

• The evolution of injury prevention and why rest and variability matter

• How a good diagnosis starts with the whole person, not just the body part

• Smarter training after injuries and as you get older • Dynamic warm-ups that actually prepare you to train

• Youth sport realities: growth spurts, single-sport risks, and talking with parents

• Life inside the Olympic Village, camaraderie, and focus between sessions

Guest Dr. Chris Koutures, MD, FAAP, Sports Medicine and Paediatrics. Team physician experience with USA Volleyball and extensive work with youth through professional athletes.

Active Kid MD - OC Pediatric and Sports Medicine Practice

We also dive into Kodak/Xerox history, impostor syndrome, and practical podcasting tips that improve your on-camera presence today.

In this David Watson Podcast episode, Kevin breaks down the steps behind his memoirs, his spiritual book, and his new guide “Book Marketing on a Budget: Simple Steps for New Authors.” If you’re an author or podcaster trying to grow without big spend, this conversation is a blueprint.

Guest Kevin Hall — author of Ilion: My Childhood, My Memories; My Rosemount MN Memories; Signs – The Veil is Thinner Than We Imagine; and Book Marketing on a Budget (forthcoming).

Website: https://www.kevin-hall.com What you’ll learn

• A simple glasses fix to remove on-camera glare • Why perfection kills momentum (and why the answer is “yes”) • Local media, libraries, and alumni networks as free marketing channels • Podcasting basics that boost presence: eye line, lighting, pacing • A Xerox/Kodak crash course: what empires teach about innovation • How to pitch without being salesy, and handle rejection easily • Turning family stories into memoirs that actually get read • Why feedback isn’t criticism — it’s your growth engine

Timestamps 00:00 Intro and a quick tip to kill glasses glare on camera 01:05 Small talk to confidence: saying yes, not perfect 02:29 Where Kevin grew up and why place matters to story 03:36 Moving states, friendship, marriage, and life lessons 07:05 Kodak and Xerox: toner, film, and the cost of missed pivots 12:16 The office copier era, queues, and culture we’ve lost 18:10 From corporate lessons to author mindset 24:06 New authors: why local press, libraries, and alumni lists work 27:06 Book Marketing on a Budget: staircase strategy overview 33:10 Podcasting tips: eye contact, lighting, voice, and presence 40:14 Impostor syndrome and building confidence through action 47:20 The books: memoirs, spiritual stories, and the new marketing guide 1:04:00 Leaving a legacy for grandkids and your future readers 1:18:45 Viral moments happen to the consistent 1:23:06 Final question: time machine, songs, and perspective 1:26:00 Wrap-up and takeaways

Calls to action • If this helped, like, comment with your biggest takeaway, and subscribe for weekly conversations. • Are you an author or podcaster with a story to share? Get in touch to be a guest. • Check Kevin’s books and say hi: https://www.kevin-hall.com

After losing her father, Liz set out to uncover whether consciousness continues after death, combining science, mediumship research, and a sceptical but open mindset. We discuss: • What inspired WTF Just Happened?! • How science and spirituality can overlap • Mediums, psychic research, and critical thinking • Grief, loss, and the search for meaning • What evidence (if any) points to life after death

If you’re interested in the intersection of science, spirituality, and the afterlife, this episode offers a grounded look at a subject often dismissed or misunderstood.

Watch, subscribe, and share your thoughts below — do you believe consciousness continues? Links Liz Entin’s website: https://www.wtfjusthappened.net

• Why betrayal trauma is different: it feels personal, it’s a “secret society,” and it even rewrites your past • The brain on betrayal: amygdala overdrive, prefrontal cortex shutdown, hippocampus and time/place distortions • Triggers and “emotional flashbacks,” and how to calm the system so you can think again • The early rule: don’t make major decisions in the first 3–6 months; choose from empowerment, not fear • Needs assessment 101: what you actually need in week 1 vs. week 12 • Betrayal blindness and the thousand micro-justifications that precede an affair • Reframing the inner dialogue: separating your worth from someone else’s choices • Pebbles and raindrops: tiny promises that rebuild self-trust and self-esteem • Practical tools: journaling, simple meditations, walking, “gratitude with reasons,” and everyday follow-through • Staying vs leaving in long relationships: finances, family systems, resentment, and compassion without excusing • The “dash” on the tombstone, bridge-and-volcano analogy, and other mindsets that help you keep going Key takeaways • Healing time beats time alone. Numbing and avoiding stretch the pain; gentle daily work releases it. • You are 0% responsible for someone else’s decision to betray. You’re 100% responsible for how you show up next. • Self-esteem returns through kept promises to yourself. Start very small and be consistent. • If you stay, rebuild from safety and transparency; if you leave, leave when you feel grounded and resourced. Resources and mentions • Mr Jay, betrayal-trauma practitioner and relationship coach • Gratitude journal exercise: list 3 things you’re grateful for, with 3 reasons each • Music mention: The Lady of Shalott by Loreena McKennitt

If you’re in the thick of it Please don’t do anything rash.

Give yourself days and weeks to settle your nervous system. Talk to someone trained in betrayal/trauma. Being heard and guided changes everything.  Where to find Mr Jay https://mrjayrelationshipcoach.com

We discuss the unseen psychological battles behind elite competition, the neuroscience of motivation, and practical strategies athletes can use to stay mentally strong under pressure.

Dr. Moley shares insights from his work with top performers, his background in sports psychiatry, and how mental training can be just as crucial as physical conditioning.

Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or simply interested in mindset and resilience, this conversation delivers practical, science-based takeaways you can apply today.

Topics discussed: The psychology of elite athletic performance How to manage pressure, burnout, and competition anxiety The role of psychiatry and therapy in sports Mental health stigma in professional athletics Building mental resilience and recovery habits What separates the mindset of good athletes from great ones

Guest links: Website: https://www.jimmymoleymd.com

Drawing from his new book, Failure to Treat: How a Broken Healthcare System Puts Patients and Practitioners at Risk, Dr. Kowey reveals how decades of political lobbying, pharmaceutical greed, and insurance control have created a system that harms both patients and doctors.

We break down the key reasons why U.S. healthcare is failing — and what must change to fix it. In this episode:

How lobbyists and politicians shaped today’s broken system The hidden influence of pharmaceutical companies on doctors and prescriptions.

How health insurance companies limit care and increase costs.

Why lawsuits and corporate pressure drive doctors out of medicine.

The systemic failures built into the U.S. healthcare model since its creation Real stories from Dr. Kowey’s experience treating patients inside a flawed system.

Practical insights on how to protect yourself and advocate for better care.

About Dr. Peter Kowey: Dr. Kowey is an internationally recognized cardiologist, medical researcher, and author. He currently serves as Professor of Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology at Thomas Jefferson University and holds the William Wikoff Smith Chair in Cardiovascular Research at the Lankenau Institute for Medical Research. His decades of experience have made him one of the most respected voices in modern medicine.

About the book: Failure to Treat is a revealing exploration of how money, politics, and bureaucracy have corrupted American medicine — and what can be done to restore trust and integrity in healthcare.

Listen to this episode if you’re interested in: Healthcare reform and policy Big Pharma and political lobbying The U.S. medical system’s hidden costs Doctor burnout and malpractice issues Patient advocacy and healthcare ethics

Guest: Dr. Peter R. Kowey Home | Peter Kowey Author

Host: David Watson Podcast: The David Watson Podcast

We dive into what makes YA romance so powerful, the emotional truths behind her stories, and how she finds humour and heart in the everyday lives of teens. Jessica also offers insight into the writing process, her love for romantic beach reads, and how her students inspire her characters. Whether you’re a writer, teacher, or YA fiction lover, you’ll find this conversation full of warmth, laughter, and inspiration.

Website: https://jessicakfoster.com Instagram:   / jessicakfosterauthor  

Goodreads:   / 24289158.jessica_k_foster  

In this episode, we explore how art and politics collide, the meaning behind his most controversial works, and what drives him to keep creating despite censorship and criticism. Julian Raven offers insight into his journey from the United Kingdom to the United States, his creative process, and his experiences navigating the modern art world.

Topics discussed include: The inspiration behind “Unafraid and Unashamed” Julian Raven’s lawsuit against the Smithsonian and the National Portrait Gallery Art, free speech, and political expression in modern America Julian

Substack https://substack.com/@julianraven

Art Gallery https://ravenartstudiomarbella.com/

As someone who has faced real life danger, and thanks to the 2nd amendment he was able to protect himself and his community, Stephen probably knows better than most why it is so important he and the GOA continue to fight to protect the Right To Bear Arms.

Stephen Willeford

https://www.thebarefootdefender.com/

Steinke has spent a lifetime in US national security roles, including twenty-eight years in the US Army and fourteen in the Department of Defence.

His official duties have taken him from the US Military Academy at West Point to over thirty countries on the Eurasian landmass, including Afghanistan and Ukraine.

Steinke holds master’s degrees in West European studies and diplomacy from Indiana and Norwich Universities, respectively, as well as post-graduation certificates in national and international security affairs from Harvard and Stanford Universities.

His passions include faith, family, fly fishing, and travel.

Rick https://ricksteinke.com/

A bright college graduate, she stepped into the classroom as a teacher, fuelled by a passion to shape young minds. Then came marriage and children.

The first few chapters of her life read as expected until the arrival of Suzy, her second child. Suzy was born with severe medical and developmental challenges, and the prognosis was grim.

Jane, then just 24 years old, was handed a laundry list of nevers: Suzy would never walk, never talk, never learn. But Jane wasn’t interested in anyone else’s script.

Instead, she rolled up her sleeves, wiped away the tears and wrote her own. And now Jane, a resident of New Jersey in the United States, has written a book about the story of her fight and journey for Suzy.

If You Knew Suzy: Pushing Past the Boundaries of Never. (September 2024, G&D Media) “At 24, I had no idea where to start,” Jane says. “But I knew I had to start somewhere.” Suzy’s early years were a whirlwind of hospital visits, therapies and sleepless nights.

Jane plunged into the world of special needs, armed with nothing more than fierce maternal love and a refusal to accept limitations. She became an advocate for Suzy, eventually earning her certification as a teacher of special needs children and later working as a learning consultant.

Jane’s advocacy did not stop at her daughter’s needs. She spearheaded socialization programs, founded special education PTAs and fought tirelessly to ensure children like Suzy weren’t just present but truly represented.

Website https://www.janemfischer.com/

These days, when she isn’t busy with work or grandchildren, Dana can be found reading a book or riding her motorcycle through Kelowna, B.C., where she lives with her husband and dogs. If you look closely you might even see her dogs in her books!

When I was raising my children I always focused on being open with them. I don't believe there are any "off-limit subjects". If my children were asking about something, or had been exposed to something, then I worked hard to help them understand using age-appropriate language; even when the topic was uncomfortable for me.

When I started writing children's books, and especially with the topic in Maddie Finds Her Place, I really focused on that strategy. My experience is that, if the language is framed well, then children at each age level receive exactly what they need and are capable of understanding the conversation.

Dana https://www.danasuttonbooks.com/home

Your inner voice, how you use you imagination, how your outlook affects your reality.

We go deep into what reality really is and how you can use it to manifest the life you want.

The world you're living today is a reflection of your thinking and the more you practise how you think, the more you visualise, the more you can create your reality.

Dr Ran Anbar discusses how to do this and gives you the tools so you can do it for yourself.

Dr Ran Anbar https://www.centerpointmedicine.com/p...

Cevin has made documentary's and written the book The Student Resistance Handbook.

Cevin Soling stands as a pioneering force in American literature and filmmaking, seamlessly weaving profound narratives across both mediums.

Renowned for his innovative storytelling, Soling’s literary works and cinematic creations redefine artistic boundaries, earning him acclaim as a visionary in the realm of creative expression.

With a unique blend of intellect and imagination, he continues to shape and inspire the landscape of contemporary literature and film.

Cevin Soiling https://amzn.eu/d/3WCrGLU

The Student Resistance Handbook https://amzn.eu/d/3WCrGLU

Keith Robins explain to me how he came to write his thought provoking book and the compelling case he makes for finding your bubble to build a better life for yourself.

The Fourth Coming

https://amzn.eu/d/7YzLgmV

And we finished with one of his new songs.

In 2020 when the world was locked down, Madelyn started to think about the stories she once told, and inspired by her own life and art, she put ideas to paper and through her art teacher, pictures filled the words on the page and Poppy came to life. Seven books later we have a wonderful series which helps children understand the world around them, how to find courage and how to find kindness, and the most important of all, how to love yourself enough to have boundaries.

Madelyn Simon https://www.madelynsimon.com

Words children can learn, and the way they can learn is an amazing process where the word is a character a thoughtful process which brings a word into a 3D concept, a person, an analogy, a metaphor, so much more than a one dimensional space.

This process of illustration not only helps a child remember the word, but they can play with the word which helps understand it's meaning.

Katherine Davis Gibbon https://www.riverletpress.com

Annie loves making art, baking, gardening, photography, hiking in the San Francisco Bay Area, traveling, and, most of all, being with her husband David and her family, including Gracie the Dog.

The Little Things That Kill: A Teen Friendship Afterlife Apology Tour was her debut novel and Leeta Simtar: A Life on Two Planets is her latest.

Every author has a journey.

Mine began in childhood with the gift of a diary and the discovery that magic happens when one puts pen to paper.

The magic of whole worlds conjured out of nothing, populated by characters real enough to command their own destiny.

My love of stories and my need to create them led to the publication of my first book People Are Like Lollipops.

That simple picture book for young children, written while I was still a college student, celebrated diversity.

Many years and thirteen books later, I’m still motivated by the tremendous power of stories to help young readers develop empathy, compassion and resilience.

Through my public events for kids, teens, parents, I continue the joyful work of empowering young people through increased self-awareness and emotional intelligence skill-building.

Annie Fox https://anniefox.com/

We dive into the writing process and how Kit discovers her characters, the writing process and how she doesn't know herself who the killer is.

Kit Karson www.kitkarson.com

It is the deadliest mass shooting in Texas history and the deadliest at an American place of worship, surpassing the Charleston church shooting of 2015.

Kelley was then confronted by and traded fire with Stephen Willeford, a local resident and former firearms instructor who was armed with an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle.

Willeford had taken cover behind a truck across the street from the church and shot Kelley twice, once in the leg and once in the upper left torso under his tactical gear.

From that day onwards Stephen became the Barefoot Defender, and on this episode he tells me why.

Stephen Willieford https://thebarefootdefender.now.site/home

Through science he understands the physical world and through theology he understand the human purpose.

George worked as a nuclear physicist and later found God and found a new purpose in his life.

www.georgezavershinskiy.com

He was a guest artist for many seasons with the Lincoln Center Chamber Music Society and performed chamber music concerts with Yehudi Menuhin, Yo-Yo Ma, Rudolf Serkin and members of the Guarneri and Emerson String Quartets.

David Singer is an Emeritus co-Principal Clarinetist of the multi-Grammy Award-winning Orpheus Chamber Orchestra. His performances have been seen on the BBC and heard on Sirius XM.

In this episode I ask how a young man fell in love with baseball, the beach, girls and a clarinet. On this journey I discover a rich life, all of which is laid out in his book from From Cab Driver to Carnegie Hall.

David Singer https://singerclarinet.com/book/buy-t...

Dr Callaghan knows what right and wrong and knows what the cosmetic companies don't tell you.

Do you know the dangers of buying from farmers markets?

Do you know the regulations around organic foundation?

Do you know why cheap isn't best?

Dr Theresa Callaghan

https://ccintl.eu/

This one-of-a-kind self-help book is designed to help teen readers take ownership of their own wellness, problem-solving, and growth.

Renowned pediatrician and Psychology Today contributor Dr. Anbar has helped thousands of teens through mental and physical health challenges—not by solving their problems for them, but by helping them tap into their inner wisdom, strength, and resilience.

In clear, empowering terms, THE LIFE GUIDE FOR TEENS takes a deep dive into issues that concern today’s teens.

It explores common health concerns, psychological issues, relationship challenges, and also pathways to success and happiness. Readers will learn how to ease anxiety, manage pain, prioritize sleep and diet, communicate effectively with teachers and parents, safely explore romantic relationships, excel at academics or sports, process grief, take on new responsibilities, and much more.

Each chapter shares multiple tools teens can choose from to immediately put into action.

Dr Anbar https://centerpointhypnosis.com/dr-anbar

Most of all he's a passionate man who loves to write, create, to tell stories and today we talk about the agony of writing and why it has so much pleasure.

The book is set in 1990's and the main character is a private investigator in Mayor Rudy Giuliani's New York, and what a time to be in New York, all the energy and excitement, that is unless you're a Private Investigator.

Alex R Johnson www.brooklynmotto.com/

Harold's amazing story starts with his life growing up with a schizophrenic mother who bullied him, and despite all of this.

Harold still went to School and to college, and then changed paths when he learnt there was a life controlling what was in the air.

Where to find Harold and his books

https://riseandread.com

Where are the lines of division, the differences between the US and Europe, the history of slavery and impact it still has today. Most of all in this episode you had two people with different experiences and different opinions, talking and listening.

As we all should! and then maybe we can unite rather than be divided. An award-winning author and sought after speaker, Dr. Joe-Joe brings experience as faculty, staff, and executive roles, including Chief Diversity Officer.

He has served at an HBCU, an international university, an Ivy League institution, a religion affiliated university, and at the public university system level.

He has lectured, served on panels, presented, and consulted in the U.S. and internationally for nearly three decades. His work has cantered around how best to bring about and develop antiracist leadership and organizations actively engaged in inclusive excellence.

The book “A Brother’s Insight” has been described as, isn’t just an award winning book; it’s a call to action.

Motivated by his experiences as a father and his reflections on the challenges faced by his daughter, Makaila, Dr. Joe-Joe McManus shares heartfelt stories and actionable strategies for dismantling racism and fostering equity.

He takes you by the hand and into his world—a world shaped by courage, equity, and a relentless pursuit of freedom.

Through deeply personal stories and ground breaking strategies, this book illuminates how the decisions you make can either uphold or dismantle the systems that perpetuate racism. ​

This is a guide for those who are ready to stand up, speak out, and change the status quo.

Whether you’re shopping at a local business, engaging with loved ones, or leading in your community, A Brother’s Insight equips you with the tools to make every action a step toward freedom. ​

Packed with heart-stirring insights and actionable advice, this book will inspire you to:

► Challenge your own assumptions with courage and compassion.

► Make everyday choices that align with justice and equity.

► Use your voice and influence to create ripples of positive change.

Dr Joe Joe McManus A Brother’s Insight | Defeating Racism and Advancing Freedom

The two synonymous with each other, and one Band in particular Gladys Knight and The Pips can stake a claim to the title.

There's so much more to the story and Lady Dhyana Ziegler knows more than most. As a child growing up in the family she saw first hand how the band grew, and how they handled their rise to fame.

In her new book Midnight Train from Georgia Lady Dhyana Ziegler tells the story of arguably from of the most influential bands of their era. Midnight Train from Georgia https://a.co/d/4GDLIm3

A fictional story at the heart of a medieval fantasy. Is it good vs evil, or rich vs poor and we discus how corruption takes over good people and makes them do things they'd always sworn to protect.

The nearly finished trilogy is filled with medieval battles and political corruption and takes the reader on a journey to somewhere not yet finished.

Robert Walker https://rawalkerwriting.com

Alretha explains how staying present enables the character to step into their own.

Using experience, imagination Alretha beautifully explains how she brings characters to life on screen and on the page.

Alretha Thomas Alretha Thomas

And is this a dilemma many of us have experienced.

Do we feel like slaves to our phone, and are too afraid to put them down.

The Lunatic delves into this dilemma, alongside the everyday life of someone who works in a book store.

The broader scope of The Lunatic lies in the real world where many of us don't know if this is a problem, and what would friends and family think if we put our phones down and quit social media.

For the answers, and much, much more check out the link below. Michelle Slater https://michelleslater.com/

You can read the books, you can speak to eye witnesses, even members of Congress.

It takes more, and Jack has done the deep dive and what's more can with confidence explain why it was Lee Harvey Oswald who pulled the trigger.

But Why? We know who did it, but why was JFK assassinated, and who was really the power behind the assassination.

Jack Moore https://www.mooretoconsider.com/

The miles we run we is a personal account of surrogacy, being a mother and training for a marathon.

During the podcast Alison and I discuss how writing a gratitude journal everyday has helped her through her life, and why it is more successful for some people and doesn't work as well for others.

In her heartfelt memoir, Alison Beder Solway confronts the complexities she faced on her path toward motherhood, beginning with a near-death experience that led her to surrogacy.

Throughout, she parallels the unwavering discipline required to train for and complete the New York City Marathon, underscoring the extraordinary endurance of the human spirit. Her raw and relatable experiences inspire us to reflect on our own “miles,” prompting introspection about the struggles we all face and the unseen fortitude they reveal.

Alison https://www.themileswerun.com/

Starting with Children of the Dying Hearth.

We also discussed the state of the world today, and did our best to the world to rights.

The worlds politics, the difference between the left and the right, is there really a difference.

How literature has sculpted our culture and our history.

We are not immune to the propaganda we accuse others of, and how the world seems to suffering from cognitive dissonance.

Amazon https://amzn.eu/d/0crPcSx

In her book "Talent Show" Denise explores family dynamics and as her and I talked, Denise explained her writing process, and what it was like growing up in a large family and how from a young age she knew she wanted to write.

Denise https://www.denisehaynesauthor.com/

The importance of unsupervised time for children: https://guenbradbury.substack.com/p/w...

How sugar affects children:

https://guenbradbury.substack.com/p/t...

How we can raise children who don't want sugar: https://guenbradbury.substack.com/p/r...

What we can learn about picky eating from traditional cultures: https://guenbradbury.substack.com/p/w...

And why children need fundamental movement skills to reduce their risk of injuries later in life: https://guenbradbury.substack.com/p/c...

This episode is a story about a man who has lived a life and travelled the world, and is now writing books about the world he sees around and where he sees the future is going.

We also talked about Cherry Coke, Dr Pepper, old films and what it must have been like to hitch up you wagon and head out onto the the trail.

An avid writer Don tells me how he manages to be so prolific, what his secrets are to writing successfully and his ambitions for more books.

The Book By Means of Peace https://a.co/d/iCp7Ipi

In this fascinating series of books we discover the real people who lived in Egypt, the real lives of the Egyptians.

There are many secrets and mysteries to Egypt, and whether there were aliens, or a people with higher consciousness.

What we know for sure is there were ordinary people, people who grew up raised families and in many ways were just like you and I.

These are the stories being told, and this where the real secrets of Egypt are revealed.

NL Holmes https://www.nlholmes.com/

Curiosity and intelligence are a heady cocktail for creative storytelling that informs, entertains and educates.

This author could not resist.

We might not realize how observant young children are.

They have a lot of curiosity and intelligence that make them great at creating stories that can teach, amuse and enlighten.

This author was drawn to this. You may wonder what a child understands about freedom, the environment, tolerance and self-worth.

This book is for sensitive kids who want to know more about these tough topics. The themes are presented in small pieces in a safe and interesting setting, with colourful illustrations throughout.

Moral questions are woven into the dialogues with the characters, with some humour and fun. The aim is that bedtime stories like these will encourage meaningful and loving conversations between parent and child.

The imagination has a power that can take us anywhere. The experience can be thrilling and the lessons learned can be life-changing. Parents may not know how to broach a subject.

These stories open a door for them to do so. The door is open. So, are you just going to stand there, or are you coming in?

Where to find the books

https://amzn.eu/d/aU82dqg

And you would think this would be celebrated by the CCP.

Instead what you have is a rich history of interference, a deliberate attempt to ruin their reputation and stop the Shen Yun performing arts company.

More and more we hear concerns about how far the CCP's influence is reaching and more and more our governments seem to be silent, some might say complicit.

Shen Yun https://www.shenyun.com/uk

Along the way we discuss dating, speed dating, and come up with some fresh ideas for some new books.

Where to find Matt https://nightstandmatt.com/

College Football Hall of Fame coach Duffy Daugherty 1960s rosters were college football’s first fully integration teams.

His 2022 story on the Rose Bowl, Alabama and segregation won first place from the Football Writers of Association of America.

Shanahan’s first book, RAYE OF LIGHT, Jimmy Raye, Duffy Daugherty, the Integration of College Football and the 1965-66 Michigan State Spartans, focused on the Daugherty’s back-to-back national championship teams.

The Foreword was written by Pro Football Hall of Fame coach Tony Dungy. His second book, THE RIGHT THING TO DO, The True Pioneers of College Football Integration in the 1960s, explains how Daugherty’s former assistant coaches and players followed his blueprint as head coaches to spread his fingerprints coast to coast.

Their influence opened doors for the first Black players to integrate programs in the South and brought about the end of unwritten quotas limiting Black athletes to a half-dozen or so at USC and other schools.

The Foreword was written by former East Carolina coach Ruffin McNeill, who was inspired by Jimmy Raye to enter coaching.

Tom  https://tomshanahan.report

Leslee realised we're animals and animals have learnt behaviour patterns and when he observed his own animal behaviours, he saw a clear picture to how he was reacting to the world.

How to curate and maintain your own mental health and dig your way out of the depression sink hole.

How to diagnose your environment with precision and understand motivations behind behaviours. How to recognise toxicity and narcissism from a safe distance.

How to release the strangle hold of blame and remain undrained by emotional vampires. How to attract and keep attracting your partner and how to love and be loved.

Leslee Hall https://amzn.eu/d/c21L7Al

Not this time, in this episode Gregg and I had an intimate conversation about grief.

It was more than just how to deal with grief.

When you know someone has your back, the grief is deep, it takes time and there is no immediate solution or fast track cure.

This was emotional.

Gregg

https://gscottgraham.com/

Using simple techniques Jennifer helps the writer learn how to communicate with the reader, what the reader wants to know and how you can learn to express your unique story.

Everything is skill which can be learned. Understanding the first draft is just the first draft, a base to build the foundations for the book you want to write.

This is how you explore your writing voice and put the words onto the paper.

Jennifer Jones https://ewc.coach/

What was the moment Lynn went from Wall Street to wellness, and now coaches people on how to live a better life. If you're feeling stressed, if you're needing a change in direction.

Wall Street to Wellness is for you and Lynn is the perfect coach to help you learn how to live a better life.

Lynn Mull

https://www.lynnmull.com/

This book provides valuable guidance for those navigating the challenges of dementia care. In this video, we delve into the key themes of "Don't Walk Away," discussing the emotional and practical aspects of dementia care.

Whether you're a caregiver, family member, or seeking to understand dementia better, this discussion offers meaningful insights.

In her transformative book, Don't Walk Away, Marilyn Raichle shares an inspiring perspective on the intersection of art and Alzheimer's.

Through moving stories and practical insights, this book highlights how creative expression can bring joy, connection, and understanding to those living with dementia and their loved ones.

✨ Learn how art can transcend memory loss and create meaningful moments. ✨ Explore the emotional impact of caregiving and the importance of patience and creativity.

✨ Discover real-life examples of how Marilyn has used art to connect with her mother, who lived with Alzheimer’s. Whether you're a caregiver, healthcare professional, or simply interested in the healing power of art, this book offers valuable lessons on finding beauty and connection in the face of Alzheimer's.

Don't Walk Away

https://a.co/d/4Q4ndZ5

Over the years Benjamin's photographs are evidence of change, but what has caused this change and can we do something about it.

In this episode we talk about what has happened to the wetlands of Florida's Gulf Coast. How the saltwater is damaging the fauna, and what is causing this, and can we do anything about it.

In his book An Unflinching Look: Elegy for Wetlands Benjamin has documented over 40 years of change, a project, a lives work and the evidence is startling and for all to see.

Benjamin Dimmitt

https://www.benjamindimmitt.com/

A life which started by not learning the piano, which helped Marcia find the Cello, childhood memories of Cape Cod and a salt water pond as she watched her dad build their holiday home.

Ending on a high of Water Music and the great discovery of writing drafts to finally complete her book. Peck has written a moving and melodic triumph of imagination and story, a fine harmony of intimacies and passions.

What happens when a writer plays cello in a professional orchestra for her entire career? Her prose soars.

In Water Music, Marcia Peck traces one intricate, intimate melody through the symphonic complexity of a disintegrating family’s summer on Cape Cod.

Music and love are interchangeable. Here is a book worthy of reading aloud—and cherishing.

Marcia Peck https://www.marciapeck.com/water-music

Soul Tutor book helps you learn how to connect with your Tarot Medium, what you need to know and what you can do to help yourself.

Many of us want to know our future, we're curious about life after death. What is it and where do we go? Can I find out?

Toni Frazier https://thehouseofdivina.com/

The educated public have long been regaled with "the mysteries of quantum physics", which enshroud far-flung claims about the fundamental nature of matter. These rely on a stunning proposition of quantum theory arising in the 1960s and contested through the subsequent sixty years: that the probabilities deriving from it defy a mathematical inequality known as Bell's inequality. John Bell himself, who formulated the problem, was puzzled by the result, and surmised that in time we would discover what is wrong with its characterisation of the matter. In this book, Frank Lad claims to have identified the mathematical error that gives rise to the misunderstanding. Addressed as a challenge to the physics community, its content is accessible to any generally educated reader who is familiar with university-level concepts of linear algebra and functions of several variables. Understanding of complete mathematical detail is not required for appreciation. Largely ignored and dismissed by the scientific community of professional physicists, here is the background to the result, and the resolution to the controversy.

Frank Lad https://a.co/d/howWl6e

Kathy Bjork, like many daughters watched how Dementia slowly took over her mothers life.

There were small signs to start with until dementia eventually took over her whole life. Kathy realised a fresh approach was needed, not just for her mother, but for her also.

This is why Kathy wrote her book My Mother is Losing Her Memory, and I Am Losing

My Mind: Parenting The Aging Parent a true story of how one daughter saw dementia and how I helped my mother help me.

Kathy's blog https://kathybjork.com/

Donald's Book https://a.co/d/ho2Hohp

Kathi Lockwood

https://booksbykathi.com/

Today I heard about Gaby Casadesus through her daughter Therese, and she told me memories of Albert Einstein, travelling the globe and much, much more.

Throughout the podcast the theme which keeps coming back around is the story of love.

And why not, two people who lived in Paris, played music and fell in love. What could be better than this?

Maybe the secret to their music was this love, as love can transmute into all things we do, and Therese tells the story of this love.

My Musical Notes

https://a.co/d/9jEhH9i

As a photographer for national geographic, a former zoo keeper he is arguably one of the most experienced and passionate people on the planet when it comes to wildlife photography, and he would tell you that's not true and in this episode of the David Watson Podcast you'll hear why it is true.

Jason has released his new book Icebergs to Iguanas a look back at some of his favourite photos and most amazing adventures.

Jason Edwards

https://www.jasonedwards.co/en-gb

In a world which seems divided, do we need to pay attention to the divides and if so what are they and where did they begin.

Racial divides and tribalism are often misunderstood and labelled wrong. Not everyone is racist, but everyone is tribal and almost everyone is unaware of their tribalism.

Dr Anthony D'Agostino

https://a.co/d/9sz8HE1

Donald Trump is set to be the President of America again, and maybe this time the media will be a little more honest about what he says and what he has done.

From misinformation to fake news. MAGA caps and all things associated to the great Donald Trump. What will happen next and will he now be able to go after the deep state and will he stop the Ukraine War.

So what now for America, will Donald Trump be the best President ever? And will he take down the corrupt institutions he claims are making enemies of him.

Can the democrats recover, and if they can how will they do it.

Martin Nelson

https://amzn.eu/d/3nFdCpl

James teaches the skills he has learnt and how he overcame his natural shyness and became a confident speaker.

Learning to tell his stories, about his life, he did all of this by overcoming his fear. Once paralyzed by the idea of speaking in public James is now a professional speaker now uses his knowledge to teach business leaders how to be better communicators and how to be better leaders.

James Carson https://commonsenseteaching.com/

We delved into her latest book, "Grasp The Nettle," which explores a largely forgotten era in Australia's history.

Sylvia shared her passion for books and writing, particularly evident in "Grasp The Nettle."

We discussed the history of Western Australia, its convicts, accidental visitors, and those who came seeking employment.

The 1920s in Western Australia are unveiled, revealing marriages of convenience and necessity, depicting a time when mutual dependence was key to survival.

Grasp The Nettle

https://amzn.eu/d/8fu68UY

Ashley explains what it is, how the process works, and what you should know if you’re considering becoming a surrogate or looking for a surrogate.

Whether you're planning to start a family through surrogacy, considering being a surrogate, or simply wanting to learn more, we discuss.

What is Surrogacy? – Definitions, different types (traditional vs. gestational), and how they work. The Surrogacy Process – Step-by-step details, from legal considerations to medical procedures. Pros and Cons of Surrogacy – Emotional, financial, and ethical factors to consider.

Choosing a Surrogacy Agency – How to find a trusted agency and what to look for. Surrogacy Laws and Rights – Understanding legal protections, rights, and responsibilities for both intended parents and surrogates.

Surrogacy is a unique journey and can be an emotional but rewarding experience.

In this video, we aim to make the process easier to understand, whether you're just getting started or actively planning.

Ashley@surrogatefirst.com

He’s co-author of the #1 FaithWords/Hachette Book Group bestsellers The Babylon Code (October 2015) and Trumpocalypse (January 2018) and #1 Chosen Books/Baker Publishing Group bestsellers The Military Guide to Armageddon (January 2021) and The Military Guide to Disarming Deception (August 2022). His newest books, Revelation 911(Salem Books), which recently became a #1 bestseller, and Your Mission in God's Army

Today we spoke about Donald Trump and his new book the Trump Code. Have previous writers from the 1800's told the story of Donald Trump and predicted what will happen in the future. Troy Anderson

https://troyanderson.us/

We want to know how to find our soulmate, where do I look for my soulmate and how do I know when I've found my soulmate.

Well, what if you were told soulmates come in all shapes and sizes. They're not always humans and many people will tell you. T

hey have met their soulmates and they're not human.

People from all around the world have stories about the soulmates in their life and they come in the forms of many animals.

What is their job?

Their job is to remind you of the unconditional love between souls and the happiness you seek comes from within.

When you experience the unconditional love from a soulmate, what you're really experiencing is the love you should have for yourself.

Nina https://antiagingcenterofboca.com/our-team/

Better leaders create better communities and better communities create a better country.

Your country needs you. Dr Josh McConkey tells me about his book The Weight Behind the Spear.

A book detailing his experiences as a Doctor and a Veteran. The life lessons he has learned, and how you can apply these lessons in your own life to become a good leader and when you become a good leader.

You can make a positive impact in you community and become the leader your country needs. This is your chance to learn the lessons of war, and how your self improvement journey are the steps needed to save your community and country.

It starts with you and starts today.

Your Country Needs YOU

Dr Josh McConkey

www.weightbehindthespear.com

Regardless of where you are in your life, if you think there you're at a point of no return, you're probably right.

However with the right mindset you can maximise your gains and consistency is the key to maximise your gains.

Chan https://www.theptcartel.com/

In the process of this work Nina learned how the self love makes the difference and is the key to opening your heart to the life you want.

Nina told me how energy work taught her how to download from the universe.

The matrix is a big topic of conversation and Nina has learnt how to download from the matrix to have the life you want, and today she explains how you can teach yourself how to download from the matrix.

Nina Presman https://antiagingcenterofboca.com/