Cancel Me If You Can By Dave Portnoy

 

Credit: Cancel Me If You Can

Overview

In his unfiltered style, Dave Portnoy details the journey of how he built his polarizing media empire, Barstool Sports, while refusing to bend the knee to those who tried to tear him down, staying true to himself and blocking out the haters.

Dave Portnoy is a gambler. From his days playing Little League baseball, he has always bet on himself and his future, which is exactly how he built his digital media empire, Barstool Sports. It all started in 2004, when Dave wrote what he knew and passed out a four-page broadsheet newspaper all over Boston. The idea was simple but revolutionary: not everyone wanted their sports takes from SportsCenter anchors in suits. Fans wanted something local, raw, and unapologetic—written in the same language and tone you might hear at your local sports bar. So, Dave gave it to them.

More than twenty years later, Barstool has grown into a nine-figure company with over 300 employees and 150 active brands. But the story doesn’t end there. Dave continues to expand Barstool and his personal brand, launching into the world of sports betting, giving honest pizza reviews, building generational media stars, and giving back to dog shelters and small businesses with the help of his own famous rescue dog, Miss Peaches. Learn more here. Credit: Barnes & Noble; Stool Presidente.

Meet Douglas Newsom, Ghostwriter and Author

 

Credit: Writers Series | Guest Douglas Newsom

Meet Douglas Newsom

Douglas Newsom is the founder of BBS Network, Inc., known worldwide as BBS Radio TV, a live, interactive, premier internet talk radio and television network dedicated to giving voice to people, ideas, and conversations that matter. His life and work were profoundly transformed by a spontaneous Kundalini event in August 2004. That experience changed everything. Since then, his passion has been to serve as an energetic catalyst for the empowerment of others. It is the fuel that drives Douglas daily. 

Through BBS Radio TV, he works endlessly to provide a powerful, professional platform for hosts, visionaries, teachers, entertainers, healers, researchers, and truth-seekers who are committed to bringing awareness, hope, information, love, and entertainment to the masses. Douglas believes we are living in the most interesting of times, and that each of us is called to participate in the transformation of consciousness, culture, and community. He's have never been driven by fame. His desire has always been soul wealth: the kind of inner abundance that comes from understanding the self, putting love into action through kindness, and seeking union with all that is. To him, that journey is profound, humbling, and perhaps never-ending.

In addition to his work in broadcasting, he has written one published work on cosmetic ingredients as a ghostwriter, a wide body of poetry, and two unpublished books: The Bible to Self Awareness and Doom the Deal! Creativity, service, transformation, and the pursuit of deeper meaning remain central to everything Douglas does. "I believe that if you are not changing something, awakening something, or contributing something meaningful, you may be missing one of life’s greatest opportunities: to live with purpose." Credit: Douglas Newsom; BBS Radio.

Make Room for Danny

Credit: Make Room for Danny

 Overview

The son of poor Lebanese immigrants, the entertainer was born in 1914 on a horse farm in Michigan and grew up among Jewish, Irish, Italian and other new Americans, an ethnic mix that provides the material for the comic's storytelling routines. After breaking into radio in his youth, Thomas rose to fame in films and TV, remained married to his wife of 54 years, Rose Marie. He attributes his successful life to a kept promise to St. Jude to found and support a children's hospital in his name, an institution for which Thomas was awarded the Congressional Medal. The hospital, according to the star, is his greatest reward, outweighing his professional achievements, even his record-setting TV show, an 11-year prime-time favorite, Make Room for Daddy. Father to Tony, a noted TV producer, and actress-producer Marlo, Thomas also reports proudly on their careers. Among other attractions in the book are tender and funny tales of cherished friends Milton Berle, Lucille Ball, Sinatra, Sammy Davis and others. Credit: Publisher's Weekly.

Bullshit Jobs By David Graeber

 

Credit: Bullshit Jobs

Overview

Does your job make a meaningful contribution to the world? In the spring of 2013, David Graeber asked this question in a playful, provocative essay titled “On the Phenomenon of Bullshit Jobs.” It went viral. After a million online views in seventeen different languages, people all over the world are still debating the answer. There are millions of people—HR consultants, communication coordinators, telemarketing researchers, corporate lawyers—whose jobs are useless, and, tragically, they know it. These people are caught in bullshit jobs.

Graeber explores one of society’s most vexing and deeply felt concerns, indicting among other villains a particular strain of finance capitalism that betrays ideals shared by thinkers ranging from Keynes to Lincoln. Bullshit Jobs gives individuals, corporations, and societies permission to undergo a shift in values, placing creative and caring work at the center of our culture. This book is for everyone who wants to turn their vocation back into an avocation. Credit: Bullshit Jobs; David Graeber.

Cher

 

Credit: Cher

Overview

After more than seventy years of fighting to live her life on her own terms, Cher finally reveals her true story in intimate detail, in a two-part memoir. Her remarkable career is unique and unparalleled. The only woman to top Billboard charts in seven consecutive decades, she is the winner of an Academy Award, an Emmy, a Grammy, and a Cannes Film Festival Award, and an inductee to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame who has been lauded by the Kennedy Center. Read more here. Credit: Cher.

CONNIE, A Memoir

 

Credit: Connie, A Memoir

 

Overview

Connie Chung is a pioneer. In 1969 at the age of 23, this once-shy daughter of Chinese parents took her first job at a local TV station in her hometown of Washington, D.C. and soon thereafter began working at CBS news as a correspondent. Profoundly influenced by her family’s cultural traditions, yet growing up completely Americanized in the United States, Chung describes her career as an Asian woman in a white male-centered world. Overt sexism was a way of life, but Chung was tenacious in her pursuit of stories – battling rival reporters to secure scoops that ranged from interviewing Magic Johnson to covering the Watergate scandal – and quickly became a household name. She made history when she achieved her dream of being the first woman to co-anchor the CBS Evening News and the first Asian to anchor any news program in the U.S. Read more here. Credit: Hachette Book Group.

Four Thousand Weeks By Olive Burkeman

 

Credit: Four Thousand Weeks

 

The paperback edition of the liberating Sunday Times bestseller is set to enhance readers' lives even further with extra content on how we can all spend our four thousand weeks. The average human lifespan is absurdly, outrageously, insultingly brief- if you live to 80, you have about four thousand weeks on earth. How should we use them best? Of course, nobody needs telling that there isn't enough time. We're obsessed by our lengthening to-do lists, our overfilled inboxes, the struggle against distraction, and the sense that our attention spans are shrivelling. Yet we rarely make the conscious connection that these problems only trouble us in the first place thanks to the ultimate time-management problem- the challenge of how best to use our four thousand weeks.

Four Thousand Weeks is an uplifting, engrossing and deeply realistic exploration of this problem that draws on philosophy, literature and psychology to cover the past, present and future of our battles with time. It goes far beyond practical tips, and its many revelations will transform the reader's worldview. Drawing on the insights of ancient philosophers, Benedictine monks, artists and authors, Scandinavian social reformers, renegade Buddhist technologists and many others, Oliver Burkeman sets out to realign our relationship with time - and in doing so, to liberate us from its grasp. Credit: Four Thousand Weeks; Oliver Burkeman.

'Sapiens' By Yuval Noah Harari

 

Overview

 

One hundred thousand years ago, at least six different species of humans inhabited Earth. Yet today there is only one—homo sapiens. What happened to the others? And what may happen to us? Most books about the history of humanity pursue either a historical or a biological approach, but Dr. Yuval Noah Harari breaks the mold with this highly original book that begins about 70,000 years ago with the appearance of modern cognition. From examining the role evolving humans have played in the global ecosystem to charting the rise of empires, Sapiens integrates history and science to reconsider accepted narratives, connect past developments with contemporary concerns, and examine specific events within the context of larger ideas.

Dr. Harari also compels us to look ahead, because over the last few decades humans have begun to bend laws of natural selection that have governed life for the past four billion years. We are acquiring the ability to design not only the world around us, but also ourselves. Where is this leading us, and what do we want to become? Image and Overview Credit: Sapiens; Yuval Noah Harari.

Glow Kids by Dr. Nicholas Kardaras

Credit: Glow Kids

In Glow Kids, Dr. Nicholas Kardaras will examine how technology―more specifically, age-inappropriate screen tech, with all of its glowing ubiquity―has profoundly affected the brains of an entire generation. Brain imaging research is showing that stimulating glowing screens are as dopaminergic (dopamine activating) to the brain’s pleasure center as sex. And a growing mountain of clinical research correlates screen tech with disorders like ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, increased aggression, and even psychosis. Most shocking of all, recent brain imaging studies conclusively show that excessive screen exposure can neurologically damage a young person’s developing brain in the same way that cocaine addiction can. Kardaras will dive into the sociological, psychological, cultural, and economic factors involved in the global tech epidemic with one major goal: to explore the effect all of our wonderful shiny new technology is having on kids. Glow Kids also includes an opt-out letter and a "quiz" for parents in the back of the book. Credit: Glow Kids by Dr. Nicholas Kardaras.

"From Hurting to Healing..." with Dr. Simon Craig

 

Credit: Writers Series | Dr. Simon Craig

Dr. Simon Craig has written a book 'From Hurting To Healing: Delivering Love to Medicine and Healthcare' where he outlines ways to improve the health system in Australia, but it is also relevant everywhere. The Senior Obstetrics and Gynecology clinician holds more than 30 years of experience in the public and private systems. He says healthcare has reached a crisis point and positive change is urgently needed. Dr Craig's book has been endorsed by fellow senior medical practitioners, administrators and university professors including Royal Children’s Hospital Professor Catherine Crock AM and University of Melbourne's Professor Dr. Susan Walker – who says Dr. Craig’s “voice ought to be heard” and his book “should be mandatory reading for everyone involved in providing care, from medical students to policymakers”.  Dr. Craig left the health system last year to concentrate on cultural change. He is now a Chief Executive of PosMed, a private company which promotes coaching an organizational culture change in hospitals. Credit: Dr. Simon Craig; PosMed. Credit: Dr. Simon Craig.

AWE by Dacher Keltner

Credit: Awe by Dacher Keltner

In Awe, Dacher Keltner presents a radical investigation and deeply personal inquiry into this elusive emotion. Revealing new research into how awe transforms our brains and bodies, alongside an examination of awe across history, culture, and within his own life during a period of grief, Keltner shows us how cultivating awe in our everyday life leads us to appreciate what is most humane in our human nature. And during a moment in which our world feels more divided than ever before, and more imperiled by crises of different kinds, we are greatly in need of awe. If we open our minds, it is awe that sharpens our reasoning and orients us toward big ideas and new insights, that cools our immune system’s inflammation response and strengthens our bodies. It is awe that activates our inclination to share and create strong networks, to take actions that are good for the natural and social world around us. It is awe that transforms who we are, that inspires the creation of art, music, and religion. At turns radical and profound, brimming with enlightening and practical insights, Awe is our field guide, from not only one of the leading voices on the subject but a fellow seeker of awe in his own right, for how to place awe as a vital force within our lives. Credit: AWE

Is Gossip Killing Your Company?

 

Credit: EntreLeadership | Dave Ramsey

Overview

From the New York Times bestselling author of The Total Money Makeover and radio and podcast host Dave Ramsey comes an informative guide based on how he grew a successful, multimillion dollar company from a card table in his living room. Your company is only as strong as your leaders. These are the men and women doing battle daily beneath the banner that is your brand. Are they courageous or indecisive? Are they serving a motivated team or managing employees? Are they valued? Your team will never grow beyond you, so here’s another question to consider—are you growing? Whether you’re sitting at the CEO’s desk, the middle manager’s cubicle, or a card table in your living-room-based start-up, EntreLeadership provides the practical, step-by-step guidance to grow your business where you want it to go. Credit: EntreLeadership.

Kiss My Boots by Jennifer Learmont

 

Credit: Jennifer Learmont

Jennifer, Welcome to Authors by Sasha. Kiss My Boots is a memoir described as provocative & steamy reflecting your adventures in the 80's and 90's in Hollywood. What made you decide it was the right time to pen a memoir? 

​I wasn't sure what the right time was to write this memoir, but it started out with my ex-husband writing his own.  I am in a couple of his chapters which didn't shine a great light on me;  it didn't explain where I came from, or where I ended up or why his story unfolded the way it did. He contacted me in 2017 and I worked with him for a couple of years, doing some research.  Then I thought I should write my story from a girl’s point of view.

I was tired of hiding my past;  people would ask me questions and my answers just provoked more questions, so I decided to just put it all out there.  It started out as a journal for my family, but it just took its own journey into a book.  I thought, “take me or leave me but here is the story.”

What was your backstory prior to embarking upon a three month journey to the United States that resulted in a twenty year tenure in the country? 

​My back story was from a very dysfunctional childhood, which I thought was a good segue into why I did what I did, and the choices that I made.  I couldn't wait to go to the USA;  I loved everything about it - the music, the entertainment industry, Tinseltown.  It was very intriguing to me as a young girl;  it was where all my heroes were from.

Adhering to no rules comes with risk. What were you trying to accomplish by abolishing all constraints which could affect your growth and success at a young age?   

Really, I didn't even think of what “no rules” or “no limits” were.  It wasn't a plan;  it was just the way I was, my makeup.  I was a free spirit and I had no plans.  I have to say that time of my life was a time that I lived purely in the moment, not thinking of consequences at all but just living.  It was so exciting;  it was pure freedom.  I’m really glad I got to that; it’s rare. 

What is the greatest risk you’ve taken in life that has paid off?

All the risks that I have taken, whether it be with criminals or being a Domme, paid off because I have an incredible story to tell.  The adventures that I lived in were unique.  I have amazing friends to this day from that life whether it be ex-clients, girls I've worked with or just all the colorful characters I met along the way.  I've always lived life to the fullest and wanted to experience everything, so to me that life paid off in that way. 

Jennifer, what was the younger version of yourself seeking from life and how have your life experiences evolved for what you’re seeking today?

I had a childhood of neglect, no security, going to so many schools, never staying in one place for very long, always being a new kid at school.  I think I was seeking to belong and maybe that's why I experienced everything that was thrown at me, to fit in. Don’t get me wrong;  I was wild and had so much fun seeking all this.

​I have learnt a lot.  Today I'm seeking the opposite: pure health and peace of mind.  I'm also very careful of who I choose to spend time with, but I think I'm still seeking security in some sort of way. 

Having lived the sex, drugs and rock n’ roll lifestyle, what surprised you the most about the celebrity lifestyle?   

Well, as the old cliché goes, celebrities are no different than everybody else;  they still have the same insecurities.  Still, it did surprise me, the sheer decadence and wealth of some of these people, especially with me coming from a poor background. 

What is the greatest misconception about Hollywood?

Well, everybody goes to Hollywood thinking it's this amazing place where your dreams may come true, but in reality it's very dangerous.  It's very dark and it's very sad.  Everybody has stars in their eyes but it's also very hard to avoid substance abuse, especially if it's not going so well.  It's a bad place to just go to without knowing anyone because you’re basically a sitting duck. Having said that, I had some of the best times of my life, saw and heard some of the best music and met some of the best people.  Hollywood's a funny place; it's bright and dark, comic and tragic.  Everywhere has that but in Hollywood it's magnified millions of times.

Credit: Kiss My Boots

Among your adventures referenced in your memoir Kiss My Boots, you’ve also worked as a dominatrix for fourteen years. How were you introduced to the exciting and exotic world of dominatrix prior to becoming a professional in the field?

How I became a Domme was simply that I had met a girl at the gym that thought I was perfect for a Domme:  I was beautiful with a strong personality.  I also needed a job.  I built up the courage to go in and have an interview, and the rest is history. 

Dominatrix represents a woman who physically and / or psychologically dominates her partner in sadomasochistic encounters. It's considered a healthy channel of sexual exploration.   What appealed to you about this lifestyle?  

So to be clear, being a professional Domme does not involve physical sex;  it’s all mind play.  To be a good Domme you have to have tons of empathy and compassion, even be a therapist to these men.  A lot of professional Dommes don’t live the lifestyle out of work.

I feel the job as a Domme filled a very important need for these people.  Where would they go and what would they do without it??  It’s a serious need for many.

What appealed to me with this job was that I met some of the most amazing people, and I was attracted to how bizarre it all was.  I liked seeing the grey side of life and the parts of people that nobody sees;  to me that's very interesting, and that's exactly what you see in this job.  These clients confided in us so deeply, I'm sure they told us things that nobody else on the planet knew about them. Believe me, there was a lot of humor in this job, too;  it could be incredibly funny.

I have definitely learned that you can't judge a book by its cover, some of the most powerful men have some of the darkest fetishes. I did learn that most of these fetishes and needs came from early childhood. I learned to practice the art of non-judgement;  everyone is just trying to get along in this world and some needs of this kind help them.  I've always had a big heart and a lot of compassion, and I became stronger with this job;  I really appreciate it. 

There are many channels present for one to connect with their higher source. How were you introduced to the Interdenominational Church and its activities which also included a gospel choir? 

I was doing a lot of cocaine and one of my clients who was a reformed drunk suggested I come with him to this church called The Sanctuary.  It was right up my alley; there were celebrities, there were rock stars, and there was amazing music.  Everyone was really healthy, and when I heard the gospel choir that was it for me!  Of course, I didn't get involved in the choir right away because I had to pay my dues and attend for a while. Music was in my blood;  all my family were musicians, so I really felt that I  belonged there.​

All the people that went there were musicians, artists or actors;  so many celebrities there.

I couldn't believe how healthy everyone was and when I found out they were into power yoga, they showed me a new way of living which was life-changing.

Labeled as a self-proclaimed fearless child, did you ever encounter fear while living the highs and lows of the American lifestyle? 

Yes, I did encounter fear, but I think I processed it differently than most people.  I was resilient and strong, so I just brushed myself off and kept going.  I never ever felt like I was a victim.  I still have the fearless child in me but I'm a lot more responsible now.  It's different when you're living a healthy clean life;  you make good choices and choose your friends very carefully.

Everyone perceives fear to be different. In your opinion, what is the opposite of fear?

The opposite of fear is living a life without crazy experiences, as the old saying goes;  your life begins at the end of your comfort zone, and that includes fear. 

The memoir Kiss My Boots also presents a survival story. Keeping secrets can be considered a survival skill. Secrets can also be dangerous. What impact did living a secretive life have on your health, heart and sanity? 

Keeping my life secret, I thought, was for survival but it was very damaging.  I felt no one ever really knew me, and how could they?  They definitely didn't understand me because my whole life was a façade.  It was not real and it was a lie, what I told my family and friends was a made-up story.  I wasn't sure what they would think of me.

Every person responds differently when existing outside of their comfort zone. Did you ever encounter homesickness when away from Australia?

I didn't get homesick for Australia so much, but I missed my family a lot.  Once in a while I'd wake up in a panic, wondering “what am I still doing in the US,” but it just kept me hooked and I couldn't seem to leave. 

The book Kiss My Boots has been nominated for Indie Book Awards (Non-Fiction), NSW Premier's Literary Awards (Non-Fiction & New Writing) and Queensland Literary Awards (Non-Fiction).  How would you describe your writing experience from the point of conceptualizing the book to launching it in the market?

My writing experience so far has been mainly cathartic, purging deep things inside me that I have kept bottled up for so long.  Offloading those experiences and putting them on paper make me feel light and free. I had never written anything before or even trained in the art of writing, but I just knew I had to get this down on paper.  I think I did a good job.

What part of the writing process did you enjoy the most when penning Kiss My Boots?

It isn't easy launching your book onto the market.  The whole process takes years with a lot of rejection.  In the end I put it down on paper and no more have to lie.

Were there any parts of the book that were challenging to write?  

I enjoyed the way the words just flowed out of me.  I don't even know where it came from;  it just came out. The pure freedom of it all! I laughed and I cried writing this book;  it was fun and it was a great experience. 

Can you kindly share two writing tips that can benefit new and seasoned writers? 

I think the best tip is to really put out the nitty gritty and don’t hold back.  I think people like the messy side of life.  Be humble and honest, no matter how hard it is to expose yourself, especially if it's a memoir. 

While growing up, what type of literature did you enjoy reading?  

I have to say I didn't get a chance to read a lot because of my unstable upbringing and going to so many different schools.  I did enjoy English and I was into reading a lot of the old classics, which I loved. 

Is there a book that you enjoy reading which you wished you had written?

Catcher in the Rye. 

Jennifer, as a proud Australian, how is the American social culture different from the Australian lifestyle?  

I never thought that Australia and the USA were that much different.  I don't think I ever had a huge culture shock except for the fact that everything's tenfold in America;  it's like Australia in the future.  It's a lot easier in Australia;  the quality of life is a lot better.  

Are there any new hobbies, or endeavors you’ve embarked upon since your return to Australia?

My hobbies now are still yoga.  I'm a marriage celebrant.  I love reading, being really healthy, friends, food, gym, writing and music. 

What exciting new projects are you working on that audiences should keep an eye on?

I'm just about to start a second edition which will start in Hollywood and do a deep dive into all these characters, and especially the Domme world.  

Please share with readers how they can support your work. 

Please follow me on Instagram at jennifer_learmont and also at Shawline Publishing, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Goodreads.

Holy Parrot by Angel A

Angel A Joins Sasha in Conversation to Discuss His Latest Book 'HOLY PARROT'. 

Credit: Holy Parrot by Angel A

Overview

Award-winning Australian author and filmmaker, Angel A, releases his second novel 'Holy Parrot'. HOLY PARROT is an innovative novel catering to the emerging millennium that offers new mythology and pioneering solutions to combat suffering. It is a tale that presents an emerging mythology for the emerging Age of Aquarius. The story seeks to bridge the gap between scientific method and spirituality. It also seeks to create religious syncretism - a coming together of religions under a common faith. The book welcomes scientific and curious minds wanting to explore matters and behavior of faith, including people of faith who are curious to learn about potential means to level up in their spiritual journey. After winning a writing competition at age 17, Angel A said, "to awaken the collective conscience, we must awaken each and every soul to their unique path. Each individual is required to transcend their own inhibitions, dramas and self-limiting narratives." These stories represent different examples of such awakenings. Angel A has eight more stories to write which are at various stages of development. Pertaining HOLY PARROT, Angel A continues to share, "mental health is a primary health concern in the modern era. Reflective review of our self-limiting beliefs may be an aspect of the resolution of this problem. The novel offers specific strategies related to this topic.To reveal them here would be a spoiler." Credit: Angel A; AngelsLeap. 

His literary awards for his prior works include the following: 

2017 Foreword Reviews Indies Book of the Year Award Finalist 

2018 American Fiction Awards Winner

2018 Best Book Awards Winner

2018 NYC Big Book Award Winner

2018 International Book of the Year Finalist

2018 Paris Book Festival Runner-Up

2018 Readers' Favorite Finalist

2018 Independent Author Network Book of the Year Finalist

2018 London Book Festival Honorable Mention

2018 Book Viral Millennium Book Awards Long List

2018 New Apple Book Awards Official Selection

2018 Body, Mind, Spirit Book awards Winner

2019 Independent Press Award Winner

2019 New York Book Festival Winner

Meet the Author - Adam Mackey

Credit: Adam Mackey (Angel A)

The Myth of Normal by Dr. Gabor Maté

 

Credit: the Myth of Normal

Overview

In the Myth of Normal, renowned physician Gabor Maté eloquently dissects how Western countries that pride themselves on their healthcare systems are actually seeing an upsurge in chronic illness and general ill health. Prescription drug usage, high blood pressure, mental illness, and so many other troubling issues are on the rise. Dr. Gabor Maté is A renowned speaker, and bestselling author highly sought after for his expertise on a range of topics including addiction, stress and childhood development.Credit: Dr. Gabor Maté

Cindy Di Xin Discusses Filmmaking & Emotions

 

Credit: Cindy Di Xin, Filmmaker

Cindy, can you share with us how you were introduced to the art of filmmaking?

Mine was really simple. Things that inspired me were my own experience and loneliness. I am the only one who has experienced all of the dramatic moments, then I started to feel lonely in my life. I tried to share with my friends by telling them, but I couldn’t bring them into my scenario and feelings. After I studied communication in my undergrad, I got to know about visual arts. I started to shape my and other people’s story with motion pictures and sounds, then I met the charm of filmmaking.

There are many modes of storytelling which include writing, photography, still art, etc. What makes filmmaking to be a powerful tool for communicating stories about life?

​In my opinion, filmmaking is a combo within writing, photography, music, and other platforms of arts. It combines all the beauties from each of the modes to one thing that can stimulate the audience all at once, which makes the audience explore and get into the motion arts journey as how they experience their own life. This kind of experience is powerful.

As an Alum from the School of Visual Arts in New York, can you please share your academic experience when working on your first degree in directing? From all the specialties to explore in film production, what made you gravitate towards directing?

It was my first time having a chance to get to know filmmaking and what a director is. It was an intense and concentrated program that let you get to know about the filmmaking industry in a professional way. Our professors were super supportive and tried to make you successful in your own artistic way.

I always think directing is the most difficult job in film production, but also it is the most exciting job. I enjoy collecting and supporting each department’s artist to create new things based on their understanding of the story. The director also has a role to make sure everything is on the same page and have good communication. I love to be a listener to my crew and help them solve all of the problems. The director is the person who gives the direction, and also is the person who tries to collect all of the outcomes from each department towards the final destination. For instance, I love working with actors and their performances always give me so many inspirations to leverage in my work and life.

What is your directorial style? How does it differ from other directors in how they approach their craft of storytelling?

I don’t know if that is my unique way or not. Hahahah! Instead of just giving my actors instructions, I always want to hear more from them. I enjoy making a connection between the actors’ real-life experiences and the characters in the movies, then letting them use that relationship to improvise or come up with something new. Together with the performers, I like constructing the character.

What is one non-negotiable element (or rule) of film making that all directors must adhere to?

Safety is first. Nothing deserves anyone’s life.

Cindy, as a transplant from China, what were your initial impressions of the United States and its people?

Nothing has a right or wrong answer. I remember when I just transferred to an American high school. I was really impressed that everyone was eager to express and share their feelings and opinions. When I was in Chinese school, it was rare to see many students raise their hands up; because we always have a mindset that there is a right answer to each question.

You’ve had the privilege of living in a few states within the United States, how have these experiences shaped your senses in how you narrate your stories before global audiences?

​I’ve lived in lower and upper states on the east and west coasts, and these experiences have made me aware of how backgrounds influence people. Background factors include family, personal experience, weather, and locale. These encounters gave me incredibly beneficial chances to get to know all types of individuals, and they also helped me develop a character for a tale. Furthermore, I discovered that nothing in the world is liked by everyone. However, if you create a story that is authentic to you and plausible, some others will identify with it.

Presently short films are trending in the markets. Why is this trend gaining momentum on different online and offline platforms?

In my opinion, the main cause of this is that people’s lives and jobs are moving much more quickly and intensely than they did in the past, and technology makes it possible for individuals to obtain information more quickly and easily. Because of this, people would rather use or spend less time enjoying or taking a break from their life or between their jobs. The condensed substance of short films is similar to that of other resources that people are using in the present. Because of this, short films are popular in today’s markets.

Cindy, you’ve mentioned “let the story determine how long it lasts”. Is there a rule of thumb you’ve established under which a story can be told in an undefined time frame? If a story runs long in film, do you believe it should be delivered to audiences in one delivery, or should the story be presented in a few movie sequels, i.e. trilogies?

​Based on my experiences, I think character driven stories should be told in an undefined time frame because a character driven film is just like a journey you want to bring your audience on and feel. I do believe some of the stories can be presented in a different chapter or a few sequels. Everything has its own stages. If putting the story into several movie sequels can make the audience have a better understanding or tighter connection, I think we should break the story into pieces. In a movie, telling a story is not only about starting a plot; it’s about using a story’s elements to engage the audience’s hearts and minds.

What type of stories are best told in a short film? Which stories are better aligned to be presented in a long filmmaking format?

A short film should, in my opinion, have a straightforward, simple plot or setup with dramatic twists so that the audience may be hooked quickly.

It would be more of a character-driven or character’s journey film for a long film format. Additionally, a story that is based on the creation of a new universe or a new society should be presented in the form of a lengthy film.

As the recipient of the International Independent Film Awards and Tokyo Film Awards, what was your reaction when learning that your work is raising awareness on the global stage?

​First, I am so grateful and happy that my work has been seen and connected with other people. Second, these awards encourage me to believe in my own works and give me more confidence in my creations. Additionally, they demonstrate to me that a well-developed story may be tied to and connected to a larger world than just the close surroundings.

The movie VOICELESS is a true story which explores complicated emotions involving a student who is sexually assaulted by her mentor. The film sheds light on voiceless victims that are granted an opportunity to be seen and heard through this powerful presentation. What was the process like from articulating this true story to recreating the story for an on-screen presentation?

I have talked to people who may or may not have the similar experiences and tried to understand their feelings and their actions. Most of the answers I got are isolation and silence with different kinds of trauma nightmares. In order to make my audience feel all of those feelings in a dramatic way, I created this intense and dramatic action for the character at the end of the film.

When casting characters for your film, how involved are you in the process? Is there a team of professionals conducting auditions for these roles? What type of attributes do you seek when casting actors and actresses in your films?

As all of my films are independent and low-budget filmmaking set up. I am in charge of most of the casting and audition process. I usually look for actors who have a related feeling or story to the story first, then I will try to see what the chemistry between me and the actors is. Lastly, I would love to see how they take my directions to their performances.

As a filmmaker, do you have any auditioning tips for any prospective actors and actresses reading this interview?

Try to dig into your own experiences first before acting, then try to have your own understanding of the story before hearing from the director.

Credit: A day, at the Beach

The movie The day, at the Beach paints a story highlighting the main character’s experience with family separations and reunions. If family is a root for everyone’s life, how has your family influenced your relationship with the world today?

​Based on my own family story and background, I have seen different layers or stages in me and my family relationships. I am always wanting to set myself as an observer of the world. I don’t think everything should have a conclusion, but everything should have attitudes and causes. I try to be open minded to the world and be a listener to the world.

What type of hobbies do you enjoy practicing in your leisure?

I love watching movies for sure, to see how other filmmakers’ job and how they use their ways to shape stories. Other than film, I enjoy both traveling and taking still pictures. I am able to get close to real life, real people, and real stories through travel. Being a still photographer allows me to establish truly undercover intimacy with strangers.

Do you have a favorite filmmaker whose work you admire? How has their personality and portfolio of work influenced your outlook on work?

​Chloe Zhao. She is a delicate and talented filmmaker. I really like how she shapes the story. Her films not only provide us with entertainment, but also take us on a journey with her character.

Cindy, what are the top two qualities that make a good filmmaker?

​Being open minded, and to be a good listener.

Emotions serve as a potent theme in your films. What emotion do you identify the most with and why?

Loneliness. I think it is the most common and the first emotion that people would feel in their life. People also have different reactions and actions to this emotion. Moreover, loneliness is the emotion that is easiest and the most difficult to connect. That is why I am obsessed with loneliness.

Can you share a favorite quote on filmmaking?

“No matter how many WEAPONS you have, no matter how great your TECHNOLOGY might be, the world cannot live without LOVE.” — ‘Castle in the Sky’ 1986 by Miyazaki

I always wanted to talk with other people and get advice when I was first deciding what I wanted to be. I realize that what other people always tell me is that you need this and that kind of skill and equipment to be successful. At first, I tried to implement all of the suggestions made by others, and I realized that I was losing myself and becoming confused about my life and goals. My life revolves around passion and love. I always give my best effort and a kind heart to work and work with people because I enjoy what I do and am grateful to those who are willing to work with me. I believe that love gives meaning to everything.

Please share with audiences how they can support your work.

​People can follow my personal IG account: Cindyxxindi

My film accounts: TDATB_shorfilm, and Voiceless_shortfilm. Thanks!

#GoodReads Naturally Tan by Tan France

Credit: Naturally Tan by Tan France

Tan France is one of the stars of the Emmy-nominated hit show Queer Eye on Netflix. The epitome of style and class, Tan is the creative mind behind successful brands including the popular ladies clothing lines Kingdom & State and Rachel Parcell, Inc. Prior to his success as a designer, he spent his summers working in his grandfather’s denim factory while he secretly enrolled in fashion college in preparation to start a new chapter as a fabulous design star. Credit: Naturally Tan, Overview; GoodReads.

In Conversation with Writer Joseph M. Lenard

Author Joseph M. Lenard Presents TERROR STRIKES

Coming Soon to a City Near You

Credit: Terror Strikes by Joseph M. Lenard

Meet the Author

Former IT Professional | Political Issues Blogger/Vlogger/Speaker

Author - TERROR STRIKES

Learn about Joseph's history and interests here.

Joseph will also share his insights with Kreative Circle & ExecuPeaks.

Credit: Terror Strikes, Joseph M. Lenard; Visit the Website

Joseph M. Lenard Pens TERROR STRIKES

 

Credit: Joseph M. Lenard

Joseph, Welcome to Authors by Sasha! As a prolific political blogger and vlogger, what serves as the inspiration for writing the book TERROR STRIKES?

Well, I actually began writing this book back in 2006, and then with the COVID hysteria all other News practically stopped being reporting, including Terrorism, so last year I felt it important to finish and get out as many who have said NEVER FORGET have indeed seemed to have forgotten. Just hoping Terrorism won’t strike you, is not a strategy!

The book's genre is fiction and non-fiction. How were you able to strike a balance between integrating historical facts with fictional elements to convey the book's message which focuses on life (and living) and those (foreign & domestic) that would deprive someone of that Life, Liberty and Happiness? 

Yes, I certainly did not want to sit down to write a dry, almost history book, like a manuscript. I thought it would be well received if I blended fact and fiction.

The words terror and terrorism are perceived differently by civilians in society. Some people view terrorism from an ideological perspective while others perceive it from an emotional stance. Based on your life experiences and understanding, how do you define terrorism?  

Usually, Terrorism or Terrorists, to me, is mainly reserved for those who are un-uniformed combatants that often target Citizen targets. And it is important to point out that this book has many sub-themes…

SubThemes in the book:

Caring about one's neighbors (Love over Hate)

Politics (it is part of their targeting us)

Suicide prevention (help save a Life)

Comic Relief (a chapter name! Chapters: Link)

PTSD (Flashback chapter)

Survivors Guilt (9/11 chapter)

Suicide prevention

Love Vs Fake Hate (a chapter name! Chapters: Link)

HELL (no, not that one, HELL MICHIGAN (Chapters: Link))

Paying it forward - Link

Many related books and movies referenced in my book (terrorism, bias, more)

Credit: Joseph M Lenard

TERROR STRIKES presents a story within a story, Terror Tracks, a book being developed by Marten which weaves a tale of factual and fictional portrayal of a hypothetical scenario of a soon to take place on Americans in the heartland to send a message that no one is safe from the actions of global fundamentalists. Why does Marten rationalize to name his book Terror Tracks? Does the track, literal or metaphorical, of terror ever end under any circumstances?  

Yes, TERRORIST TRACKS is the book within the book and is a double-play on terms (and there several other duality word-plays in the book). Both tracking down Terrorists and in that many Terror Strikes are on passenger rail, that run on Tracks, Terrorists favorite targets. But being a former Information Technology guy, and knowing no-one under the age of 40 knows life w/o the internet and are familiar with what a blog is and so I provide Marten’s blog on 9/11 in the book as part of his reviewing that fateful day.

As a theist hosting interest in psychology, how do you interpret the behaviors and scare tactics that fundamentalists project onto the global citizens? 

Fear is a major motivator of probably a majority of society. And as Franklin said ‘those looking to forsake freedoms for a sense of security deserve neither.’ And more-so, those with Children are most vulnerable to manipulation based on their fear(s) in order to control them, often foolishly believing that if they just appease their enemies they will want to coexist. It is clear the GIJIA have zero desire to coexist, unless you anoint them your Master and you their Slaves.

There's a chapter dedicated to Al Aldieaya that translates to propaganda/marketing. How do institutions from the global powers to fundamentalist groups leverage propaganda and marketing to achieve their desired goals?

It mainly goes back to George Orwell and the false “Ministry of Truth'' to control the masses. And the book not only addresses propaganda abroad, but that of many main-stream-media outlets that try to pretend to be impartial and just reporting facts, but instead mostly now peddle spin to advance their political agenda.

Joseph, Global Islamic Jihad Interim Army (GIJIA) is referenced in TERROR STRIKES. What type of parallels exists between GIJIA and the NAZIs? Are there any precautionary measures society can exercise to contain the GIJIA population's influence on the global stage? 

I coined the term GIJIA, like we used NAZI during World War 2 for the National Socialist Deutchsland Abeiter Party, which stands for Global Islamic Jihadists Interim Army. And both fascist. The GIJIA want a fascistic global caliphate where they hold power over all to dictate every aspect of our lives.

Based on your writing experiences that explore political ideologies and global issues impacting citizens, how can individuals pursue a quality of life without becoming enslaved by the presence of terrorism?

We cannot let our fears get the best of us, so we must continue to go about our own personal pursuits, but still being mindful and alert to our surroundings. As Theresa, in the book, finally realizes that she was far more and ostrich in these regards than the mama-bear she needed for her daughter. Burying one’s head in-between the train tracks will not prevent itself from being run over by the train coming.

Credit: Terror Strikes, Joseph M. Lenard

TERROR STRIKES caters to an inclusive audience where as the book's story represents views from a variety of political, religious and culture viewpoints, to name a few. Were there any ideologies / factors left out when crafting the story for the sake of simplicity, or other reasons?

Yes, the book goes beyond just those foreign to us that want to kill Americans, but that too of those domestic. I did stick with the three main Religions, while yes they want to kill anyone that will not bow to their dictates including any and all other faiths, but they mostly focus on Christians and Jews.

How is humor applied as a source of comic relief in the book writing process?  What type of humor do you enjoy in your personal life? 

I can never pass on an opportunity for a bad pun. Life is indeed so serious these days, but we need to keep a sense of humor and laugh, even at ourselves, at times. If we don’t laugh occasionally we’ll be crying all the time.

The story references a few locations (i.e. Spain, UK, Canada). Were these locations chosen because of their history with terrorism, or because they hold a special meaning in your life?

Good question, and the answer is BOTH! Being in the Detroit area we are very intertwined with our neighbors to our north, and when I was younger I spent a good degree of vacation opportunities north of Toronto. But, too, yes, each location is important to understanding the threats we must always be on alert for.

As a writer, Joseph, how have your views and writing style evolved from the early days of blogging?  

It actually hasn’t changed me at all, as to my views. And my writing-style has always been “different” and I push on the “norms” and take great enjoyment in avoiding the classic “formula” of book writing. Which is why I am about 99.9% certain I am the first to constitute the notion of not only the book within a book but blog within the book as a story delivery method.

When you're not writing or thinking about global affairs, what activities do you like to engage in?

Sports. As a former amateur hockey player, I always watch as many NHL games as I can.

You're a proud Michigan native with roots tracing back a few decades.  

What do you believe Michigan does so well when serving its citizens unlike other states?  

Do you have any activity recommendations for first time visitors experiencing Michigan? 

Well there is the obvious with Michigan bordering three of the Great Lakes, and beyond that the many small lakes we have across the State, great for visitors recreation. But as far as them “serving” I think Michigan is as bad if not worse than some others, though I am very happy and remain a resident of Wyandotte which has had its own Power and Water company operations which does serve us well, usually when government gets involved in anything it gets more expensive and inept, but these services have stayed fiscally responsible and we save money on the costs of those things over other communities.

Is there a life mantra you live by? How has it improved your emotional, mental and spiritual development?

“Remember: Things can always be better, but they can often be worse!” And while I share that with everyone, it sure doesn’t prevent me from complaining when things could most certainly be on the better side of things. That and humor. It is important to laugh and help others laugh for our mental well-being.

Joseph, you're a writer that has penned poems and music aside from blogs and a book. Are any of these writing experiences more therapeutic than the other? Why? 

They are all very helpful and great for mental-health by providing a sense of accomplishment when one comes together. Sadly, though, I have not picked up a Guitar in about two decades, because today it is so much easier to market music digitally through the internet these days and I’m missing out.

What new projects do you have unfolding on the horizon? 

For now it is all about promoting TERROR STRIKES, and some time going forward I will likely begin dedicating time to my next book.

Please share with audiences how they can support your work. 

I sure hope, of course, first-and-foremost will consider picking up a copy of TERROR STRIKES at any book-store or online. If online, while you’re there, stop by my online articles/blogs location of http://tinyurl.com/JLDArticles.