Conversations With Giants

Podcast Summary

What if your favorite childhood stories were more than just tales, but the beginning of a lifelong journey into creativity and fantasy? Join us as we sit down with Julia Golding, a celebrated author, and the dynamic director of the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, who has turned those early dreams into a successful career with over 60 books. Julia shares her enchanting story, from growing up in Essex where her imagination was sparked by the landscapes around her, to her transformative moment meeting a published author who showed her that writing could be more than just a dream. Together, we explore her fascinating career, the influences of literary legends like C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, and her joyful contributions to the world of fantasy literature.

The publishing world is transforming, and with Julia's insights, we navigate this brave new landscape where self-publishing and AI-assisted books are reshaping traditional pathways. Even for authors backed by major names like HarperCollins, economic pressures akin to those in the music industry present unique challenges. Julia opens up about the necessity of adapting, finding new revenue streams, and staying true to the passion for storytelling. We also get an exciting peek into what's next, with Julia's upcoming book release and the intriguing ventures at the Oxford Centre for Fantasy. Don't miss this chance to learn from Julia Golding's remarkable journey and her perspective on the evolving world of publishing.

What if you could reshape an entire industry just by listening to those at its heart? Join us as we engage with Louis Paulucci, CEO of Yur Drivers Network, whose journey from the Bronx to becoming a visionary in New York City's rideshare scene is nothing short of captivating. With a background in hotel management and pharmaceuticals, Louis brings a fresh perspective to the table, blending his diverse experiences to craft a more just platform for drivers and riders alike. His personal tales from the road, with over 1,700 rides under his belt, reveal the frustrations and politeness encountered in equal measure, fueling his resolve to innovate.

Discover the exciting strides being made to redefine NYC's rideshare landscape. Louis shares with us his strategic playbook: from launching a compelling Medium article to employing brand ambassadors in New York City, every step is meticulously planned to boost visibility of Yur. Imagine a rideshare network where drivers enjoy pay of up to 71%, and passengers evade those dreaded price surges. Louis’s blueprint is all about matching passengers with the nearest drivers without the usual headaches, ensuring a fairer, more transparent experience for everyone.

In a market as tough as New York City, the hurdles are high, but Louis’s vision is clear. Explore the challenges and opportunities that congestion pricing presents, and how Louis aims to leave a lasting impact on local economies. Amidst all this, get to know the man behind the mission—his love for golf, music, and fishing, and the satisfaction he finds in building a company with a heart. This episode promises not just insights into the rideshare revolution, but a personal look at an entrepreneur committed to making a difference.

Music industry legend Michael Blanton joins us to share his incredible journey from his early beginnings in Texas to becoming a transformative figure in Nashville's music scene. Discover how his unique upbringing with a music-loving dentist father laid the groundwork for his passion and eventual pivot into a career that would shape iconic artists like Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith. Michael recounts the serendipitous moments and calculated risks that led him back to Nashville, where his innovative spirit and strategic foresight left an indelible mark on the industry.

Michael's stories of collaboration and ingenuity offer a fascinating glimpse into the creation of the Blanton Harrell company and Reunion Records, highlighting the strategic matches that took artists like Amy Grant to new heights. His reflections on the music industry's evolution capture both the nostalgia for the vibrant melodies of past decades and the challenges artists face today amid the rise of streaming platforms. Explore how Michael navigated these shifts, embracing the best of both worlds to help musicians achieve crossover appeal and sustained success.

Our conversation with Michael also touches on the broader implications of these industry changes, including the resurgence of legacy music and the evolving dynamics of revenue generation in the digital age. Listen to Michael's insights on content creation and his unwavering commitment to producing music that inspires hope and joy. His dedication to fostering creativity across various mediums underscores the transformative power of art and its ability to uplift and encourage audiences worldwide. Don't miss Michael's contact information in the show notes if you'd like to connect and learn more about his inspiring work.

What if those serendipitous moments in life were more than just coincidences? Join us as we explore the intriguing world of "Godwinks" with the delightful duo, SQuire Rushnell and Louise DuArt. SQuire, the mastermind behind the term, shares how these divine nudges have become a cultural phenomenon, while Louise offers personal stories that reveal their life-altering impact. Together, we venture into how these extraordinary encounters transcend religious boundaries, sparking faith and conversation among people from all walks of life.

Our journey doesn't stop there; we also celebrate the incredible legends of entertainment and faith. Louise reflects on her time touring with the legendary Donna Summer, unveiling a behind-the-scenes look at the inspiration and faith that fueled Donna's iconic career. Meanwhile, SQuire recounts his rise from a paperboy to an executive at ABC, connecting the dots between his career and the enduring legacy of Schoolhouse Rock "Conjunction Junction, What's Your Function?" and "I'm just a bill". Through their experiences, SQuire and Louise reveal how faith and perseverance have been guiding lights in their fulfilling lives, proving that divine alignments can shape both personal and professional paths.

We then turn our attention to the lasting impact of Schoolhouse Rock and its lessons in empathy and engagement, which have influenced major media projects like Good Morning America. SQuire also shares the heartwarming success of "Rescued by Ruby," on Netflix,  a film born from the DogWink series that has touched audiences globally. As we reflect on these stories, SQuire and Louise encourage us all to recognize and cherish the Godwinks in our lives, offering a joyful reminder of the positivity and purpose they bring. Listen in for an uplifting episode filled with inspiration, nostalgia, and a celebration of the enduring impact of faith-driven entertainment.

What if rolling up a frying pan could spark a global movement against bullying and inspire millions of young people? Join us as we explore the extraordinary journey of Jon Pritikin, a public speaker who has spent over three decades championing kindness and resilience through his powerful "Be a Hero" program. With feats of strength that capture attention and stories that tug at the heart, John has turned his own high school struggles into a beacon of hope for students worldwide. Tune in to discover how this remarkable individual uses unconventional methods to connect with audiences in schools and beyond, from California to Colombia.

We'll take you behind the scenes of Jon’s worldwide adventures, where cultural exchanges and humorous encounters add unique layers to his mission. Ever wondered how to get a rolled-up frying pan through customs or the cultural nuances of making students laugh in South Africa? John shares these lighthearted moments while highlighting the serious impact of his work across continents, from school assemblies to online suicide prevention efforts. Hear about the awe-inspiring breakthroughs that happen on stage, the transformative power of storytelling, and the lasting legacy Jon strives to create with his organization, Feel the Power.

As Jon's journey takes us from school gyms to corporate stages, we explore the essence of mentorship and kindness in building meaningful connections. Listen to tales of Israeli youth overcoming challenges, plans for future visits to inspiring destinations like Israel, and the unexpected opportunities born out of simple acts of kindness. Whether you're a student, educator, or anyone seeking inspiration, learn how Jon’s commitment to hope and human connection shapes lives and encourages a world where everyone can be a hero.