Artful Periscope- The Nimble Art of Storytelling: Recent Episodes
Larry Davidson
How many threads lead to a world of violence as a life’s work? In this week’s episode of The Artful Periscope, Larry invites author Gregg Podolski onto the show to discuss his debut novel, The Recruiter. Larry and Gregg start with a lightning round, comparing Gregg to the protagonist of The Recruiter, Rick Carter. Then they move on to discuss Thrillerfest 2024, navigating the morally gre yworld of Rick’s profession, exploring the assassins Rick comes into contact with over the course of the novel, and writing action sequences as well as realistic dialogue.
After the break, Larry welcomes Claire Isenthal onto the show to discuss her novel (also a debut!) The Rising Order. Claire starts off with her childhood moving from place to place, eventually moving back with her family to Indiana, where she began working on The Rising Order. Larry and Claire discuss the dystopian setting of the novel, the relationship between the protagonist Flynn and the dangerous antagonist Wolf and how the novel’s story serves as a warning about societal divisiveness leading to the rise of extremist groups.
How many threads alter history? In this installment of the podcast, Larry has a chat with retired Green Baret and thriller author Steve Stratton. Larry begins by mentioning Steve’s foundation Special Operations Warrior Foundation supporting families of service members who did not return from the battlefield. The conversation then turns to the breaking news of the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and the ripple effects it will have through the entire middle east region. Steve and Larry also explore the news coming from the presidential campaign regarding former President Trump’s assertions of happenings in Springfield, Ohio and Aurora, Colorado and how this narrative is being expounded by his vice presidential running mate J. D. Vance. Steve discusses the meaning and understanding of “chain of command” and the efficacy of an order by a president to have political rivals assassinated in light of the Supreme Court’s ruling of absolute immunity by a sitting president. Larry brings the conversation to Trump’s “enemy within” comments and comparing it to the plight of Jewish people from the 1930s through the end of 1945. There is also a discussion of the assassination attempts on Trump, the effectiveness of the Secret Service and women in the Service.
How many threads connect real world experiences to storytellers? On this week’s episode of The Artful Periscope, Larry welcomes Jeff Circle back to the show to discuss The Dossier, Jeff’s web archive and newsletter/website dedicated to featuring authors and their works. Larry and Jeff discuss 9/11 and Jeff’s military service during Operation Desert Storm. Then the discussion shifts to focusing on the creation of The Dossier, the recent inclusion of audio book narrators on the website and upcoming author spotlights.
After the break, Larry welcomes Jack Carr onto the show to discuss his first non-fiction book Targeted Beirut, which focuses on the 1983 bombing of the Marine Corps barracks in Beirut, Lebanon. The event was a turning point in relations between the United States and the Middle East. Jack discusses his research process, how the Beirut attacks set the stage for the terrorist attacks on The World Trade Center, Lebanon’s tumultuous history and how to tell a non-fiction story while treating the real-world participants with respect.
How many threads lead us down the rabbit hole of deception? On this week’s episode of The Artful Periscope, Larry invites biographer Mary Haverstick onto the show to discuss her latest book, A Woman I Know: Female Spies, Double Identities and the New Story of the Kennedy Assassination. Mary’s book focuses on Jerrie Cobb, a well-known aviator, NASA astronaut candidate, and women’s rights advocate who was the subject of a biopic Mary was creating. However, after being told by a government official some of her documents on Cobb were classified, Mary realized there was a much larger story to be uncovered. As Mary reveals over the course of the book, there is a high probability that Jerrie Cobb was also Judy Cobb, a spy with a potential link to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Larry and Mary discuss the evidence: Mary’s meticulous research in matching the schedules of both identities, the similarities in appearance between the two women and eyewitness identification. They also discuss Jerrie as a person and her cautious but cunning persona, including the character of Mary Cobb who was created in reference to her on the Apple TV show For All Mankind.
How many threads allow us to address and understand tragedy and grief? On this week’s episode of The Artful Periscope, Larry sits down with author Marianne Leone to discuss her latest book Five Dog Epiphany. Marianne starts off by reading an excerpt from the book, showcasing a story about a dog named Titi, who came into her life at the start of the 2016 pandemic. After the reading, Larry and Marianne discuss their mutual friendship with Eddie Falco, Marian’s role on The Sopranos and the support she received from her fellow cast members after fainting on set. Then Marianne discusses her first book, Knowing Jesse, which chronicled the loss of her son after a battle with cerebral palsy, and her second book, Ma Speaks Up, which re-tells stories about her Italian immigrant mother. Her latest book, Five Dog Epiphany recounts how adopting a pack of Bichon Frise helped bring joy back into her life after the devastating loss of her son.
After the break, Larry invites author Henry Wise to discuss his latest book Holy City. Taking place in rural Southern Virginia, Holy City follows Sheriff Will Seems as he investigates a homicide along with a wild card private detective named Bennico. Larry and Henry discuss the role of religion in the narrative, the racial history of Viriginia that still affects the black community, and how settings can also be characters in stories.
How many threads connectus to time and place through music? On this week’s episode of The Artful Periscope, Larry sits down with Robyn Hitchcock, author of 1967: How I Got There and Why I Never Left. The biography details Robyn’s childhood growing up in an English private school during 1967, which is a frequent contender for the title of Greatest Year in Music. Larry and Robin discuss The Beatles, Jimmy Hendrix and other early influences that shaped Robyn’s lifetime love of music. His love of rock and roll often conflicted with the strict conservative norms of boarding school and it’s hierarchal structure, which forced boys to endure bullying and mental health struggles. Yet, even in such a difficult environment, music still found it’s way into his life through records he and the other students played in the evenings. They also discuss Bob Dylan (as well as Robyn’s current friendship with Bob Dylan’s son), Robyn and his wife’s current passion for both song production and art, and his daily life living in Nashville.
How many threads connect firearms in all modes of our society? On today’s episode of The Artful Periscope, Larry sits down with author Chris Grall to discuss his current book Trigger Guard: A Writer’s Guide to Firearms. Grall starts off by discussing his background in firearms and weaponry in the United States Army, the National Guard, and eventually Special Forces. He got into advising when he was reading an audiobook by author Scott Sigler, eventually kindling a friendship between the two writers (Scott even wrote the forward to his book!). In addition to privately consulting, Grall has also been a frequent panelist at Thriller Fest and recounts how a staged fight with his friend and fellow writer Greg Podolski helped illustrate the of importance of doing research to make fight scenes realistic. Then Larry welcomes Chris DeCristofaro, Larry’s producer and host of the podcast The Library Pros, onto the show. DeCristofaro and Grall delve into more specifics on firearms including the spelling of caliber, the history of the AR-15, and the accidental shooting on the set of the Alec Baldwin film Rust.
How many threads lead us down the rabbit hole of deception? On this week’s episode of The Artful Periscope, Larry sits down with author Bruce Borgos to discuss his latest book Shades of Mercy, the second book in the Porter Beck series. Together, Larry and Bruce analyze Mercy Vaughan, the teenage hacker deuteragonist who has been compared to Lis Salander from the famous The Girl with Dragon Tattoo, and his returning hero Porter Beck. They also explore the Nevada setting, the proximity to Area 51 and crafting character driven narratives.After the break, Larry welcomes returning guest Alma Katsu back to the show to discuss The Spy Who Vanished, which has been released as a Kindle exclusive three-part novella series. Alma discusses the challenge of writing in a new format, her shift in mindset from the anonymity of the intelligence community vs the public persona of the author, and the improving production of audiobook adaptations. Larry and Alma also talk about vetting information sources, how spies used “dead drops” to exchange information, and why James Bond is actually a bad spy.
How many threads pull on our own identity and existence? On this week’s episode of The Artful Periscope, Larry sits down with author K.T. Nguyen to discuss her debut novel You Know What You Did. Nguyen details her childhood growing up in a small Ohio town as a first-generation child to Vietnamese refugees, her Ivy league education and her eventual move to New York City to become a magazine editor. Her life experiences inspired the protagonist of her novel, Annie, who is also Vietnamese and struggles with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, a condition which Nguyen had developed as a teen. Larry and Nguyen explore how OCD and the word “obsessive” is often overused, Annie’s complicated relationship with her mother and friend Danielle, and the flashback sequences in Saigon.
After the break, Larry welcomes retired US Army soldier and former intelligence officer Delbert A Roll to the show. Delbert shares stories of brave men and women who served in the U.S. military, including Robbie Miller, Pat Tillman, Michael P. Murphy, Patty Collins and his best friend Brian Hope. Larry and Delbert also discuss the transition into civilian life, Delbert’s novel-in-progress and the welcoming nature of the writing community.
How many threads are connected with some of our former guests? On this week’s episode of The Artful Periscope, Larry catches up with previous guests of the podcast. The first returning guest is John Copenhaver, co-host of The House of Mystery Radio, 2021 Lambda Literary Award Winner and author of The Savage Kind and it’s sequel Hall of Mirrors. Larry and John discuss his multifaceted characters, including the complexity of villains, references to real historical figures and the exploration of gender, sexuality and racial identity in 1950s America. Throughout the conversation, John also discusses the role of grief in his writing process and how processing loss has a transformative effect of the development of plot and character.
After the break, Larry welcomes James Hibbard back onto the show to discuss his previous book The Art of Cycling: Philosophy, Meaning, and a Life on Two Wheels and his upcoming project. Hibbard,, a longtime cyclist, delves into effect the sport has on athlete’s physical and mental health. He also spotlights a few titles that explore the art of cycling such as The Flying Scotsman by Graeme Obree, The Beautiful Race by Colin O’Brien, and Higher Calling by Max Leonard. James also discusses his struggles with keratoconus and his periodic corneal transplants, and how he has adapted his fitness routine to balance healing with his passion for movement and exercise.
How many threads connect us to the events of the day, past and present? On this week’s episode of The Artful Periscope, Larry welcomes journalist and fellow podcaster Ben Bradford to the show to discuss his latest NPR podcast Landslide. The series recounts the 1976 presidential primary race between Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan and its long-lasting effect on the trajectory of the Republican Party. Together, Larry and Ben dissect the difference between patriotism and nationalism, how Ronald Regan’s rhetoric shifted conservative ideology, and the challenges of modern journalism in a twenty-four-hour news cycle. Then the discussion shifts to Landslide, and how understanding the trajectory of political parties throughout history can shape our understanding of modern politics.
After the break, Larry welcomes author Kurt Wagner to discuss his book, Battle for the Bird: Jack Dorsey, Elon Musk, and the $44 Billion Fight for Twitter’s Soul, which recounts Elon Musk’s acquisition of Twitter. They discuss Twitter’s original founder, Jack Dorsey, and the behind-the-scenes negotiations between Twitter and Elon Musk. Then they examine Musk’s ideal of a free-speech platform without restrictions, and whether users will want to take part in a community with no filters. Finally, they wrap up by dissecting the connection between Musk and former president Donald Trump, and how it might impact the upcoming election.
How many threads explore power dynamics? This week on The
Artful Periscope, Larry sits down with Tom Straw, author of The
Accidental Joe: The Top-Secret Life of a Celebrity Chef, which
tells the story of a celebrity chef embroiled in a dangerous
espionage plot. Larry and Tom discuss Tom’s love of food, his
early career in television and how working with comedians and
actors shaped his understanding of developing characters and
crafting stories. Tom also shares insight into what sparked the
idea for his book, the voice of his protagonist Sebastion Pike and
how his friends in the food world responded to his manuscript
(spoiler: Alton Brown has very strong opinions about knives!).
After the break, Larry welcomes Hughes Norton, the author of
Rainmaker: Super-Agent Hughes Norton and the Money-Grab
Explosion of Golf from Tiger to LIV and Beyond, onto the show to discuss his illustrious career as a golf agent. Hughes explains
how his autobiography came into existence and his friendship
with his co-author George Pepper. As agent for golf giants like
Tiger Woods and Greg Norman, Hughes shares behind-the-
scenes information on the golf industry, Tiger Woods’ childhood
and family, his conflicted feelings about his dismissals, and his
indomitable passion for the sport and the industry surrounding it.
How many threads connect us to the past and the present? On this week’s episode of The Artful Periscope, Larry is joined by his old friend and returning guest Kevin Baker, author of The New York Game: Baseball and the Rise of a New City. Larry and Kevin discuss Kevin’s childhood memories of Yankee Stadium and seeing legendary players like Mickey Mantle and Willie Mays in-person. Then the discussion then shifts to the history of baseball in New York, tracing its influence back to the early 1900’s and one of the earliest New York professional teams, The New York Mutuals. Then Kevin delves into the fierce rivalry between the New York Yankees, the New York Giants and the Brooklyn Dodgers, and the division between Manhattan and Brooklyn. After the departure of the Dodgers and the Giants from New York, the discussion turns to the remaining team, the Yankees, and their most famous player Babe Ruth.
After the break, Larry welcomes J.M.Adams, a journalist with experience reporting for CBS and NBC news affiliates and the author of the thriller novel Second Term. Larry and Adams discuss his love of language and the dedication in his book to the police officers that defended The Capitol during the January 6th insurrection. Then they discuss the protagonist, Cora Walker, and how her ability to survive a male-dominated profession is informed by the experience of his wife, working as a Wall Street executive. Returning to the events of January 6th, Adams frames his novel as a cautionary tale regarding the dangers of authoritarianism in government as the story presents a terrifying future in which politics continues to become extreme and the foundations of democracy are threatened. Finally, they explore strong characters and how they can shape narratives in unexpected way.
How many threads of logic lead us to revelations? On this episode of The Artful Periscope, Larry sits down with Adam Sykes, author of the thriller novel The Underhanded. In addition to being an author, Adam also had a long career in the U.S. Marine Corps, received a Silver Star and was a former CIA Paramilitary Officer. Larry and Adam discuss the origin of character names and how Adam’s military experience has informed his writing, Larry posits what it was like to make the shift from being an active participant in major world events such as the 2003 invasion of Iraq vs the author’s role as a witness and commentator, adjusting from a military team life to a solitary writing life, and the role of physical exercise in his writing process.
After the break, Larry welcomes Henry Hemming, author of Four Shots in the Night: A True Story of Spies, Murder, and Justice in Northern Ireland, which recounts the true story of 1980s murder of a British spy by, potentially, another British spy. While exploring the facts of the case, Henry also explores the relationship between spies and their targets, the complicated history of Northern Ireland and it’s relationship with Great Britain. Henry shares about the ISU (aka The Nutting Squad) and their hunting of spies for the IRA (Provisional Irish Republican Army),the courage of victim Frank Haggerty’s mother to speak out publicly against her son’s murderer, and the investigation of Jon Boutcher, a modern detective tasked with researching this case and similar cases originating in Northern Ireland.
How many threads are woven together where the sum of the parts exceed our expectations? On this episode, Larry welcomes three different authors.
First, Terry Hayes discusses his newest book The Year of the Locust. They discuss the influence of epic poetry and epic storytelling, the complexity of writing stories about intelligence organizations, and the effect of the film and television industry on modern writers and readers. The topic of the siege of Saigon and the importance of urgency when crafting a plot are also explored.
Next, Larry re-introduces returning guest James Grady to talk about his book The Smoke in Our Eyes. Larry and James analyze the in-media opening of the book and the importance of Easter Sunday and the theme of resurrection. Larry posits the questions of why the setting of the book on a moving train is an exploration of the American landscape, and the importance of using your voice to call out cruelty and injustice as an author.
Finally, Larry welcomes I. S. Berry into the conversation to talk about her experience serving in the Central Intelligence Agency back in 2004. Berry provides valuable insight into the challenges of working in the intelligence field, tackling difficult topics like PTSD from the difficult choices she grappled with, the constant danger she faced while being in active service, and the institutionalized sexism that secret service organizations don’t speak about.
How many threads intersect and impact the world of sports and the history of a country? On this episode, Larry invites author Ethan Scheiner to the show to discuss hisnewest bookThe Freedom to Win: A Cold War Story of the Courageous Hockey Team That Fought the Soviets for the Soul of Its People—And Olympic Gold. Freedom to Win follows the story of the 1969 Czechoslovakian World Ice Hockey Championship team who used The Olympics to protest Soviet Russia’s oppression. Larry and Ethan discuss the brothers at the heart of this story, Jiří and Jaroslav Holík, whose father had trained them to become world class athletes to escape the increasing influence of the Communist party. They also talk about the larger political situation in Czechoslovakia at the time, including Alexander Dubcek’s relaxing of political censorship and the Soviet Union’s military response. Ethan also explains the significance of the replica hockey jersey he’s wearing, which is based on the jerseys the Czechoslovakian hockey team altered to protest the Soviet occupation.
After the break, Larry sits down with Jon Langmead, author of Ballyhoo!: The Rough housers, Con Artists, and Wild men Who Invented Professional Wrestling. Larry and John discuss the history of wrestling styles, the development of over-the-top choreography moves, the public’s changing perception of wrestling stars from athletes to entertainers and the physical impact of wrestling on the long-term health of famous wrestlers.
If words are threads in a storyline, where do they take us? This week on The Artful Periscope, Larry conducts a double interview with E.A.(Ed) Aymar, author of When She Left, and Bruce Borgos, author of The Bitter Past. Together, the group discusses what they enjoy the most about storytelling – strong characters, interesting subplots, and settings as characters. Both Ed and Bruce discuss their love for delving into the secret lives of their characters, and the challenge writers face creating flawed characters that are still interesting to readers. Then the discussion turns towards their favorite authorial voices, including Nelson DeMille and Barack Obama.
After the break, Larry welcomes Jeff Circle, author of The Dossier, to the show. Larry and Jeff discuss Jeff’s career as a federal special investigator, police offer and an intelligence analyst for the United States military. As an interviewer, Larry asks Jeff about the art of interrogation and the unique relationship between the person asking the questions and the person answering them. Jeff discusses his experiences as a federal investigator and how it gave him the skills to become a successful interviewer, interviewing authors about their books and the writing process. Jeff also discusses his military experiences, how September 11th inspired him to take action, and his current love for the writing process and the craft of composing a novel.
How many threads are brought together in criminal justice reform? On this week’s episode of The Artful Periscope,,Larry sits down with Colleen P. Eren, Associate Professor of Sociology and Criminal Justice at William Paterson University and author of Reform Nation which discusses the First Step Act– a surprising piece of legislation signed off by Donald Trump on the verge of a government shutdown and it’s effect on prison reform in The United States. Colleen traces her interest in reformation to her experience at her catholic high school, where she heard a talk from Sister Helen Prejean, author of Dead Man Walking. She became involved with the anti-death penalty movement while pursuing a degree in sociology at Hofstra University. Larry and Colleen discuss the history of mass incarceration and its boom during the Nixon Era, which increased the prison population from 250,000 to 1.2 million. Colleen explains the connection between mass incarceration and institutionalized racism, and the rise of mass incarceration after the end of The Jim Crow Laws. She also addresses the increasing tension between police and the public following the BLM movement. In a country fiercely divided by right and left, Colleen advocates for cooperation across the aisle to support prison reform initiatives and program funding.
How many threads take us behind the scenes of the basketball world? In this week’s episode of The Artful Periscope,Larry sits down with author Rich Cohen to discuss his latest book, When the Game was War: The NBA’s Greatest Season. The book chronicles the NBA season of 1987 and the basketball stars that dominated the game. Rich discusses his childhood growing up with his basketball coach father and his gradual interest in high school basketball. Then Rich and Larry recall the hidden personal stories of basketball greats such as, Isaiah Thomas’s talented older brother who passed away after a drug overdose, Bob Hope’s unheard of $1,000,000 offer to Larry Bird, and the tragic rivalry between Isaiah Thomas and his former best friend Magic Johnson.After the break, Larry welcomes Michelle J. Manno to the show to discuss her most recent book Denied: Women, Sports, and the Contradictions of Identity. Michelle, a sociologist and Assistant Provost for Diversity and Inclusion at Northwestern University, highlights the journey of female athletes through a male dominated industry. By interviewing anonymous female basketball players at the college level, Michelle discusses the fine line female players must walk between masculinity and femininity, how the playful filming of a music video during a winter break led the girls to face uncomfortable truths about how the industry weaponizes sexuality, the struggle of maintaining good mental health in the face of physical exhaustion and the importance of intersectionality between race, sexual orientation, and feminism.
How many threads do storytellers weave together? Joining Larry on the show is return guest S. J. Rozan to talk about her latest work Mayors of New York. S. J. shares that she has a love affair with New York City and wants to share that love with the reader. Larry asks if part of the book was influenced by Jeffrey Epstein and S. J. shares that she is interested in people of a lower social strata. S. J. explains the concept of a character being the “subject or the object” of a narrative. Larry shares his affection for one of S. J.’s character’s mothers and how he missed not having her in this most recent work. Then the conversation evolves into first generation immigrants and how a the place they settle in becomes a hub for their home culture, and the food seems to be the largest representation of their homelands. There was also a great discussion of Martin Luther King as this episode was recorded the day after the holiday.
How are the threads of family history interwoven into storylines? In this episode, Larry checks off his bucket list by being joined by Pulitzer prize winning author, Stephen Hunter to talk about his new work Front Sight. Larry and Stephen explore the origin of character names and “if you don’t get the name right, you don’t get the character right”. Larry also posits that when a grandfather passes away so does an entire library and Stephen shares what he learned from his grandfather. In weaving and crafting a story, Stephen shares his thoughts on planning plotlines, especially since he feels like he just jumped out of a Super Sabre fighter with blue shade shoes on from the 50’s. Larry also questions whether or not our history is a prologue.
How many threads connect us to story tellers whether an author or a singer/songwriter? In this episode, Larry chats with James Wolff author of the book The Man in the Corduroy Suit. Larry loves spy novels and asks how James picked his “pen name”. James shares what genre of book tickles his fancy and some of his favorite authors. Larry speaks about the idea of a “public life”, “private life” and a “secret life” and asks James about each and how they help him develop his characters. In the world of intelligence, it is a “zero sum game” because in the end there isn’t much progress and James gives his thoughts. Larry asks if James knows what his characters sound like, whether accent or tone of voice. James, being a former intelligence agent, has to have his work vetted by his previous employer with a rather mysterious process. Larry asks how sharing intelligence between Britain and the US happens. Larry and James talk about Russia, Brexit and Ukraine and how things have changed from the “good old days”.
After the break, Larry is joined by return guest Pete Mancini. Pete joins the podcast with the song Golden Hour. Larry asks how Pete felt being in Georgia during the time of recent Supreme Court decision regarding election indictments. Pete shares an update since being the band Butchers Blind and has put out 3 albums. Larry talks about how special music can be including being transported back in time. Pete then plays The Law of the River and speaks about inspiration behind the song. Larry asks exactly “what is American music” talking about all that has evolved from the American experience and Larry expands the question to talk about how Pete expands his roots to develop his art. Pete shares what he listens to so he can “tune out” and get lost in music. Pete ends the podcast with his work Madison Avenue Blues.
How many threads lead us to cultural dissonance? In this installment of the podcast, Larry invites back to the program author Alma Katsu discussing her latest work The Fervor Larry asks how difficult is it to put a character into a crisis and how they work their way out of that situation? Alma discusses developing conflict in a story and always ask what the worst thing that can happen, then write their way out. Larry talks about how Alma’s culture growing up with a Japanese mother and being a Roman Catholic affects her writing. The book jumps from the 1927 to the 40’s and Larry posits why the basis of the story starts with a man and his family. Larry asks about the “spy balloons” from China and the balloons in Alma’s book and why are balloons so central to the story? There is also a pensive talk about how the settings are also characters in the story. In terms of memory there are 3 types, short term, long term and institutional memory. Larry asks which memory is central to the book? Alma describes how this work is different than most of her other historical horror/fiction. After a break, Larry speaks about storytelling in terms of professional wrestling. Larry watched the sport in the past and has recently began watching once again. In storytelling there are heroes and villains, but in wrestling, there are heels and babyfaces, and Larry speaks about the Netflix series Wrestlers and how the characters personal lives follow their characters.
How many threads connect authors and what we can learn. On this episode are two amazing authors who really need no introduction. Nelson DeMille and his son Alex DeMille join the program to talk about their latest work Blood Lines. Larry asks what it is like to co-author a book with a fellow family member and also if it was a challenge to find the starting point for the story. Nelson talks about his writing style which is a departure from most authors with a “write as you go” plan. There is also a lively discussion about how the development of the characters develops in the writing process. Nelson and Alex also discuss how they study both current events and do extensive research before formulating a story and Larry posits how losing colleagues in the field can effect writing.
In the world of espionage, how many threads are unwoven? In this installment of the podcast, Larry chats with author of the book The Peacock and the Sparrow, I. S. Berry. Larry talks of origin stories and asks when a child, where did the door open up to have a thought to be a writer? Ilana … Continue reading Episode 64 In the World of Espionage, How Many Threads are Unwoven Author I. S. Berry
In a world of espionage, how many threads are frayed? In this installment of the podcast, Larry speaks with Paul Vidich, author and 3 time guest on the show. He has penned the new novel Beirut Station. Larry and Paul speak about the parallels between the current crisis in Israel with Hamas and how timely his … Continue reading Episode 63 – In the World of Espionage How Many Threads are Frayed
In relationships, how many threads are unwoven? This this installment of The Artful Periscope, Larry sits down with Joseph Ammendolea, film director and owner of “I Like to Play with Toys” productions. Joseph recounts his childhood, his early filmmaking experiences at Hofstra University and how he finds actors for his projects. Then the discussion turns … Continue reading Episode 62 – In Relationships, How Many Threads are Unwoven? Joseph Ammendolea
How many threads connect the past to the present? In this installment of the podcast, Larry sits down with wife and husband writing team Nicci Gerard & Sean French to discuss their latest book The Favor. Together they examine the ethical dilemma at the center of the novel- how far would you go to do … Continue reading Episode 61 – How Many Threads Connect the Past to the Present – Nicci Gerard and Sean French
How many threads connect the relationships between mankind and the horse? In this episode of The Artful Periscope, Larry sits down with author Fred M. Kray to discuss his latest book Broken: The Suspicious Death of Alydar and the End of Horse Racing’s Golden Age. Together they untangle the unsolved murder of Alydar, a famous … Continue reading Episode 60 – How Many Threads Connect the Relationships Between Mankind and the Horse? Author Fred M. Kray and Rory’s Island
How many threads connect the reader to the crime fiction writers that they follow. Larry was fortunate to have well known crime fiction writer Reed Farrel Coleman to talk about his latest work Sleepless City. Larry asks Reed how he defines Noir fiction to which he responds “french for black” which brings a chuckle. Some have … Continue reading Episode 59 – How Many Threads Connect the Reader to the Crime Fiction Writers They Follow – Reed Farrel Coleman and Ben Crane
How many threads connect us to what is below the surface? In this installment, Larry has a discussion with Peter Speigelman about his latest book A Secret About a Secret. Larry and Peter explore the story out side of the cover of the book, how the title draws the reader, and whether this book is … Continue reading Episode 58 – How Many Threads Connect Us to What is Below the Surface Authors Peter Spiegelman and T. J. English
How many threads contribute to a cascading series of events? On this week’s episode of The Artful Periscope, Larry sits down with author Paul Moses to discuss his latest book The Italian Squad. As a New York City historian, Paul sheds light on the forgotten work of Italian police officers of the NYPD who battled the Mafia while also striving to protect immigrant Italian families in a society that didn’t welcome them. Larry and Moses discuss his career as a journalist, the legendary police officer Giuseppe Petrosino and the friction between the police and the Italian community.
After the break, Larry invites author Julia Boyd to discuss her book A Village in the Third Reich, which shares the stories of ordinary folks living under the Nazi regime. Julia’s book draws disturbing parallels to modern times, providing a cautionary tale of how world events can push everyday people into extraordinary and terrifying circumstances.
How many threads take us through the ages? On this installment of The Artful Periscope, Larry sits down with author Bill Morris to discuss his latest work, The Age of Astonishment. The book chronicles the long life of his grandfather, John Morris, and the historical events he lived through. Larry and Bill discuss the horrors of slavery in the pre-civil war south, his grandfather’s lifespan ranging from The Civil War to the Cold War and his discovery of his grandfather’s long lost German English dictionary manuscript.
After the break, Larry interviews Stacie Murphy, a debut author, about her first novel The Unquiet Dead. Stacie delves into the challenges of writing a novel, the joy of adding historical details into her fictional story and the potential for a series.
How many threads connect the good actors with the bad actors, even if some of the good have done some bad things? In this episode of The Artful Periscope, Larry is joined by true crime and organized crime writer Michael Benson to discuss his latest work Gangsters vs. Nazis. Michael begins by recounting his childhood interest in true crime, chasing after his babysitter’s killer and eventually returning as an adult to uncover new evidence in his book The Devil at Genesee Junction. Then Larry and Michael shift gears to the subject of Gangsters vs. Nazis, which sheds light on the fight between Jewish mobsters and German-American Nazis. To defend their communities and to push back against antisemitic sentiments, Jewish mobsters used their gang and boxing connections to break up Nazi meetings and rallies. Michael also highlights the disturbing history of Nazi organizations on Long Island, including Camp Siegfried in Yaphank, which attempted to recruit American children into the Nazi movement. In an America that is facing the rise of Nazi groups again, Michael’s writing is a reminder of how communities need to band together to stand against hate.
How many threads can reveal a transformation from a couch potato to endurance athlete? In this episode, Larry is live in studio with Hilary Topper to discuss her latest book From Couch to Endurance Athlete. As a mother, business owner and adjunct professor with very little time to herself, Hilary decided to take charge of health and go “from zero to one hundred”. Larry and Hilary examine her non-athletic upbring, early experiences in the gym and the walk run training method. As an avid runner himself, Larry and Hillary have a lively conversation about running legend Jeff Galloway and the joys of running. Afterward, Hilary recounts her triathlon training, her first attempts at learning how to swim and how her son inspires her to keep moving forward.
Follow Hilary:
YouTube
Amazon
How many threads bring strangers together? In this installment of The Artful Periscope, Larry is joined by James Grady, author of This Train. They discuss his debut book Six Days of the Condor and the experience of having it adapted into a Robert Redford movie, as well as methods for keeping thriller plots interesting and … Continue reading Episode 53 – How Many Threads Bring Strangers Together? – Authors James Grady and Jerry Stahl →
How many threads need to align to take us on a journey to freedom? In this installment of The Artful Periscope, Larry sits down with David Goodrich to discuss his latest book On Freedom Row. Tracing the remaining landmarks of The Underground Railroad, David embarked on a 3,000 mile bike ride to uncover the hidden … Continue reading Episode 52 – How Many Threads Need to Align/Connect to Bring Us to a Journey to Freedom – Author David Goodrich and Rory Vecsey →
How many threats connect the past and present? In this week’s episode of The Artful Periscope, Larry sits down with Dr. Bronwen McShea to discuss her latest biography La Duchesse, which chronicles the forgotten life of Marie de Vignerot—Cardinal Richelieu’s niece and heiress. After years of research, Bronwen hopes to bring attention to Marie’s legacy … Continue reading Episode 51 – How Many Threads Connect Us to the Past and Present? Author Bronwen McShea and Robert Hofler →
How many threads lead us to discovery? In this edition of the Artful Periscope, Larry virtually visits Argentina to have a chat with Guillermo Martinez, the author of The Oxford Brotherhood. This gripping mystery follows the story of a mathematics student who gets caught up in a scandal involving the life of Alice in Wonderland … Continue reading Episode 50 – How Many Threads Lead Us to Discovery Author Guillermo Martinez and Rory Vecsey →
How many threads connect the body and the mind? In this episode of The Artful Periscope, Larry sits down with Olympic cycling champion James Hibbard to discuss his latest book, The Art of Cycling. With a background in both competitive sports and philosophy, Hibbard’s book illuminates the important connection between the body and the mind … Continue reading Episode 49 – How Many Threads Connect the Body and the Mind – James Hubbard →
How many threads take us to places that are foreign? Larry has a chat with author Nicholas Dawidoff regarding his most recent book The Other Side of Prospect: A Story of Violence. After eight years of research, over five hundred interviews and many trips to Nicholas’s hometown of New Haven in Connecticut, The Other Side of Prospect recounts the wrongful arrest of Bobby Johnson and illuminates the complicated history of race and financial inequality in the community.
After the break, Larry interviews Mark Ebner, co-author of the book Off the Deep End which recounts the complicated relationship between luxury hotel pool boy Giancarlo Granda and Becki Falwell, wife of evangelical preacher Jerry Falwell Jr. Larry and Ebner discuss the ethics of personal responsibility, the corruption of Liberty University and the interview between The Falwells and Vanity Fair. The episode wraps up with a new installment of Rory’s Island, in which Rory Vescey discusses her own experiences with the legal system and the potential barriers that disenfranchised groups face.
How many threads are woven to created and execute a Play. After attending the play Eleanor and Alice, Larry is joined by the playwright Ellen Abrams, Director Frances Hill, Actress Trezana Beverly (who plays Eleanor Roosevelt), and Mary Bacon (who plays Alice Roosevelt). The play is in 4 acts and follows these two iconic wives through the 20th century.
Larry discusses what it is like to see a person’s written word come to life on the stage, the thought process of the actors, whether there is a rhythm to both writing and acting and why this play is rather unique (which is based in fact but is written in the spirit of history).
If you are interested in attending this amazing play by visiting https://urbanstages.org/eleanorandalice/.
How many threads connect puffs of smoke? In this week’s episode of The Artful Periscope, Larry interviews legal analyst and federal prosecutor Lis Wiehl, who sheds light on the shadowy life of FBI spy Robert Hanssen while discussing her new book A Spy in Plain Sight. Wiehl discusses the experience of growing up as the daughter of an FBI agent and how her career as a lawyer influenced her style as an author.
Then the conversation shifts to Robert Hanssen, who is often referred to as “The Unabomber of the FBI” due to the twenty-year hunt to find him. Wiehl analyzes Hanssen’s convincing cover as a devout Catholic, his relationship with his wife Bonnie, his ability to effectively compartmentalize different facets of his duplicitous life, his narcissistic pursuit for accolades that drove him to sell information to Russia and the ultimate reveal of his spy activity.
How does the writer weave the threads to tell their story? In this installment of the podcast, Larry sits down with author and friend of the podcast, Peter Blauner. Peter and Larry discusses his latest book Picture in the Sand. Blauner discusses his research into the political situation of 1950s Egypt (and the surprising connection to the filming of The Ten Commandments), his interview with the remaining relatives of legendary director Cecil B. DeMille and his decision to frame the narrative as a grandfather telling his recollections of his immigration to America to dissuade his grandson from joining an anti-American group.
After the break, Larry conducts a virtual interview with Irish author Vona Groarke about her book Hereafter: The Telling Life of Ellen O’Hara , a fictionalized biography of her great grandmother. Groarke goes into detail about the disappointing lack of information about her grandmother and the process of reconstructing her story based on the breadcrumbs of data she did find as well as her research into lives of Irish immigrants in 1880s New York.
How many threads are hidden in the world of intelligence. In this installment of the podcast, Larry has an insightful conversation with the author of Red London, Alma Katsu. Larry inquires about Alma’s past employment working in the shadow world of United States intelligence gathering, how the war in Ukraine effected her creative process mid stream and the challenge of “self isolation” when writing. Larry ponders whether there will be further works entitled “Red Moscow” or “Red Square” and if the character Lindsey Duncan could be an interesting character in a movie or television adaptation. Taking the topic of the book and speculating about current events, Alma and Larry discuss oligarchs and who really controls modern Russa and what role is China attempting to play in the mix. Larry explores the world of NDAs and how Alma’s role in her previous profession effects the publishing of her fictional works.
Alma Kastu on Twitter
How many threads connect the residents to a building? In this episode, Larry chats with author Jenni Fagan to discuss her latest book Luckenbooth. Jenny describes her life growing up in the Scottish foster care system, the empowerment writing gave her when she didn’t have a voice and how switching between homes gave her a unique perspective on people. Then she delves into Luckenbooth, illustrating how physical buildings stand witness to the stories of the people who live in them. Afterwards, Larry shares his thoughts about how issues like wearing or not wearing masks hints to a larger, more dangerous, political divide.
Jenni Fagan on Twitter
How many threads connect us to iconic figures? On this installment of the podcast, Larry ponders Hemingway with author Timothy Christian to discuss his new book Hemingway’s Widow. Hemingway’s Widow sheds light on the fascinating life of Hemingway’s fourth wife Mary Walsh, who had often been maligned by historians. Timothy and Larry discuss Mary’s influence on Hemingway’s writing process, her work as a wartime journalist and her tense conversation with John F. Kennedy.
Timothy Christian on Twitter
After the break, Larry interviews returning guest and Newsday writer Thomas Maier, author of Mafia Spies about the iconic film The Godfather and surprising multiple Long Island connections. Thomas talks about modern opinions on The Godfather, Francis Ford Coppola’s fight to cast Al Pacino and the impact of The Godfather on Italian American culture. Thomas Maier on Twitter
How many threads connect a doctor to the development of CPR and how many threads connect a community to their own paramedics? Larry is joined by author Kevin Hazzard and paramedic John Moon to discuss American Sirens: The Incredible Story of the Black Men Who Became America’s First Paramedics to delve into this incredible story of an African American community in Pittsburgh, and the connection to doctor Peter Safar who pioneered CPR and how John’s path led to the birth of modern emergency medical service. Larry has John expand on his experiences growing up during segregation, his childhood living in an orphanage and his journey to Pittsburgh in the 1960’s, and Freedom House and its importance toward the founding of emergency medical service as we know it today. Larry also ponders what would have happened if CPR was not developed and what the medical profession would look like today.
Kevin Hazzard on Twitter
John Moon on LinkedIn
How many threads are at the intersection of comedy that binds us? Larry is joined by Michael Seth Starr, the author of Don Rickles: Merchant of Venom. Michael and Larry explore the life of Don, from his humble beginnings growing up in Queens, New York, his service in the Navy during World War II and his subsequent rise to stardom. Michael delves into the connection to Frank Sinatra, Don’s studies as a serious actor and the various influences on Rickles’ career. Larry also talks about the thread between Don and Groucho Marx. As a writer for the New York Post, there is a spirited discussion on the state of broadcast television vs streaming and how the quality of both have evolved.
How many threads intersect the lives of many? In this episode, Larry sits down with author Joseph Kanon to discuss his latest book The Berlin Exchange. Joseph shares his experience switching from working in the publishing industry to becoming a published author, spy swaps in fiction and the harrowing reality of those living in East Berlin during the 1960s. His protagonist willingly crosses into East Berlin to reunite with his family- but can he truly find the freedom and safety he’s looking for while tangled in a political nightmare?
After the break, Larry discusses the HBO series The Gilded Age with journalist and historical fiction author Kevin Baker, who illuminates the interest of New York in the 1880s as a setting, and shares with Larry why this era is so fascinating to the modern day viewer.
How many threads connect us to a voyage of exploration and discovery? In this installment, Larry chats with author Tom Chaffin to discuss his latest biography Odyssey: Young Charles Darwin, The Beagle, and the Voyage that Changed the World. They discuss the strange path Charles Darwin walked from dropping out of medical school to becoming the father of evolution and publishing the groundbreaking Origin of Species. While pursuing Darwin’s story, Tom also recounts his research, travel, and growing connection to the characters.
Joining Larry for a musical interlude is singer/songwriter Nico Padden, who shares several of her songs and the real-life influences behind them. Weaving together stories featuring difficult issues such as domestic abuse, sexual harassment and systemic racism into her music, Nico discusses the power of songwriting and the stories that fuel creativity.
How many threads connect us through the generations. This episode brings us two talented individuals who both are storytellers. First Larry speaks with Neal Wooten, author of the book With the Devil’s Help, a book that Larry can foresee as a 3 act play. Larry speaks to Neal about his early life growing up, how he was not allowed to talk about what happens at home or even have friends over to play and the multigenerational struggles with mental illness, being a genius and a family slaying involving potatoes.After the break, Larry is joined by singer/songwriter Audrey Jones. Audrey is the youngest guest yet to appear on the podcast. Audrey plays 3 songs live in studio, talks about her influences, inspiration for writing songs, why writing is easier than playing or singing and explains her hopes and dreams, gives credit to Frank Toscano Music School, and her teacher Kevin Allen.
Song 1: Forgive
Song 2: Your Mom
Song 3: Rainfall
What are the threads that connect us to a true path? What are the threads that connect us to a true path? In this installment of the podcast, Larry is joined by author John Searles to discuss his new book, Her Last Affair. Searles recounts his childhood being bullied for being gay, his love of the … Continue reading Episode 36 – What Are the Threads that Connect us to a True Path? Authors John Searles and Michael Branch →
How many threads lead us to discovery? In this episode Larry chats with S.D. Sykes, author of The Good Death, a mystery novel which takes place in Middle Ages England. S.D. Sykes brings us behind the scenes to paint a picture of discussing the challenges of writing protagonists living in different times, what was considered a … Continue reading Episode 35 – How Many Threads Lead Us to Discovery? Author S.D. Sykes, Deborah Spector and Rory’s Island →
How many threads connect to challenges and obstacles? In this episode Larry sits down with author Jim Kempton to discuss his new book Women on Waves. Jim delves into the long history of women in surfing, the great Bethany Hamilton and the film Soul Surfer. Jim also reveals some unexpected surfing celebrities such as Agatha Christie … Continue reading Episode 34 – How Many Threads Connect to Challenges and Obstacles? Author Jim Kempton and Para-Athelete Todd Schaffhauser →
What is the thread that connects us to complex characters? It’s an “alumni” episode! Larry chats with previous guests Julian Rubenstein and Ellen Meister. Julian discusses his non-fiction work, The Holly: Five Bullets, One Gun and the Struggle to Save an American Neighborhood. and what it is like as an outsider to the community he … Continue reading Episode 33 – What is the thread that connects us to complex characters? Authors Julian Rubenstein and Ellen Meister →
How many threads lead us to understand men in power? This week, Larry sits with author and Boston Globe journalist Mark Arsenault about his new book The Imposter’s War: The Press, Propaganda, and the Newsman Who Battled for the Minds of America. The book centers on John Rathom, a journalist known for his World War … Continue reading Episode 32 – How Many Threads Lead Us to Understand Men in Power? – Author Mark Arsenault & rReporter S.J. Peddie →
How many threads connect us to lies and deception? In this episode, Larry sits down with author Paul Vidich to discuss his new book The Matchmaker: A Spy in Berlin. Larry and Paul discuss the difficulties and intrigue of the spy biz along with the allure of setting thrillers in Cold War Berlin along with … Continue reading Episode 31 – How Many Threads Connect Us to Lies and Deception? – Author Paul Vidich →
How many threads connect us to the past,the present, and the future? Larry steps into the unknown and speaks with Dr.Simon Morden, author of The Red Planet: A Natural History of Mars. Larry broaches the topics of The God Particle, TheBig Bang Theory and the significance of theJames Webb Telescope. Dr. Morton then discusses the … Continue reading Episode 30 – How Many Threads Connect Us to the Past, Present, and the Future? Dr.Simon Morden, author of The Red Planet →
How many threads lead us to the conviction of an innocent man? This week Larry Davidson sits down with author Charles Bosworth Jr. and defense attorney Joel Schwartz to talk about their collaborative book Bone Deep: Untangling the Betsy Faria Murder Case. Bone Deep recounts the unjust conviction of Russell Faria and Joel’s fight to … Continue reading Episode 29 – How Many Threads Lead Us to the Conviction of an Innocent Man? Charlies Bosworth Jr. & Joel Schwartz →
How many threads connect us to a journey? S. J. Rozan joins the program along with her feline companion to speak about her latest work Family Business, a work nominated for the G.P Putnam’s Sons Sue Grafton Memorial Award. Along with articulating the complexities of Chinatown, the Tong organized crime family, and the hierarchy of … Continue reading Episode 28 – How Many Threads Connect Us to a Journey – S.J. Rozan & Tom Clavin →
How man threads connect us to a changing way of life? A boxcar, a spiral notebook and a pencil, the root of the “origin story” of author Ed Davis who has penned The Last Professional. Larry explores that “origin story” and how Ed’s early life riding boxcars inspired him to write about a yesteryear of “hobos, … Continue reading Episode 27 – How Many Threads Connect Us to a Changing Way of Life – Ed Davis and Manda Kalimian →
How many threads connect us from the original idea to the time the work gets to the reader? Larry pulls back the curtain of publishing with Jenny Rossberg, Senior Publicist at Pegasus Books. Jenny and Larry broach subjects of crime fiction (and how you can learn about a town from those works), what a Novella … Continue reading Episode 26 – How Many Threads Connect Us from the Original Idea to the Time the Work Gets to the Reader – Jenny Rossberg Pegasus Books →
How many threads connect us to the movies? Joining the podcast is Kevin Goetz, author and film researcher/audience tester with his firm Screen Engine/ASI. Kevin speaks to Larry about his latest work Audience-ology: How Moviegoers Shape the Films We Love, and how the audience matters and shapes film. Kevin de-constructs the subtitle of his book, discusses … Continue reading Episode 25 – How Many Threads Connect Us to the Movies – Author Kevin Goetz and Commentary by Rev. Gayle Fisher Stewart →
How many threads connect us to history and heritage. Joining the podcast in this installment is Buki Papillon and Charles Lichtman. Buki Papillion, author of her premier novel An Ordinary Wonder, takes Larry on a trip to her childhood growing up in Nigeria, her friendship and mentor Lori Foos, the uniqueness of the Yoruba people … Continue reading Episode 24 – How Many Threads Connect Us to History and Heritage – Author Buki Papillon and Charles Lichtman →
How many threads connect us to complicated family secrets? In this installment, Larry, along with contributor Rory Vecsey chat with author John Copenhaver about his new book Savage Kind. Larry explores how crafting a purposeful prologue can set the table to manipulate the readers perspective to then make it easier for the author to create plot twists. … Continue reading Episode 23 – How Many Threads Connect Us to Complicated Family Secrets – Author John Copenhaver & Singer/Songwriter Rorie Kelly →
How many threads lead us to survival? Larry is joined by Erika Hecht, author of the book Don’t Ask my Name: A Hidden Child’s Tale of Survival a story of her life surviving German occupation during World War II and in post war Europe as a Jewish person who converted to Catholicism. Erika discusses mixed traditions and … Continue reading Episode 22 – How Many Threads Lead Us to Survival – Author Erika Hecht & Rory Vecsey →
How Many Brush Strokes or Guitar Strings are the Threads of Creativity? Larry is joined by two amazing artists in Jonathan Santlofer and Karen Bella. Jonathan Santlofer is the author of the book The Last Mona Lisa, a story based on the true events surrounding the iconic painting’s theft in 1912. Jonathan shares his thoughts on … Continue reading Episode 21 – How Many Brush Strokes or Guitar Strings are the Threads of Creativity – Jonathan Santlofer & Karen Bella →
How many threads are needed to uncover the truth? Former NBC reporter and author Arthur Kent joins the podcast speaking about his new book Murder in Room 117: Solving the Cold Case that Led to America’s Longest War. Arthur tells the story of Spike Dubs, ambassador to Afghanistan in 1979 who was kidnapped and ultimately assassinated … Continue reading Episode 20 – How Many Threads are Needed To Uncover the Truth – Reporter/Author Arthur Kent →
How many threads connect unto a series of events. Joining the podcast is author Amanda Fairbanks, author of the book The Lost Boys of Montauk. Amanda speaks to Larry about the process of writing this story and how it was a labor of love, being a resident of the South Fork of Long Island. We learn … Continue reading Episode 19 – How Many Threads Connect us to a Series of Events – Author Amanda Fairbanks and Singer/Songwriter Stuart Markus →
What is the thread that connects a writer to a reader? Larry was joined by Paul Vidich, author of The Mercenary. Paul speaks about growing up during the Cold War with the USSR as the adversary to the United States along with the fall of the Soviet Union and the rise of modern day Russia. Paul … Continue reading Episode 18 – What is the Thread that Connects a Writer to a Reader – Authors Paul Vidich, Terry Simone Francis and a Commentary by Tom Clavin →
What are the threads that connects to a series of events? Joining Larry for a chat is Heather Martin, author of The Reacher Guy: A Biography of Lee Child. Heather talks about meeting Lee Child and her inspiration for writing the book. We learn what roles the Great War and World War II had in forming … Continue reading Episode 17 – What Are the Threads that Connect Us to a Series of Events: Heather Martin, Jennifer Murphy and Danny Caine →
What is the thread that connect us to the story behind the story? In this episode, Larry speaks with author Craig Unger who discusses his latest work American Kompromat, which touches on Opus Dei, how it has penetrated American government especially in the Trump presidency and how Russia has manipulated Trump since the 1980’s. There is also a … Continue reading Episode 16 – What is the Thread that Connects Us to the Story Behind the Story: Craig Unger, Ray Rickman & Darin Strauss →
What is the Thread that Connects Human Behavior to a Range of Pathologies. Joining Larry on this episode is Authors Abigail Esman and Tom Clavin along with a commentary by Peter Blauner. Abigail Esman is the author of Rage: Narcissism, Patriarchy and the Culture of Terrorism. Abigail kicks off the episode with a short passage from … Continue reading Episode 15 – What is the Thread that Connects Human Behavior to a Range of Pathologies – Abigail Esman, Tom Clavin and Commentary by Peter Blauner →
Is there a thread that connects us to our own sense of well-being. Larry has a jam packed episode with author S. J. Rozan speaking about her new book The Art of Violence, her thought process in creating a character’s point of view, writer’s self doubt, the process of writing which is never smooth and … Continue reading Episode 14 – Is There a Thread that Connects Us to Our Own Sense of Well-being – Author S. J. Rozan, Gayle Fisher Stewart, Judith Finlayson & Pete Mancini →
Is There a Thread That Connects Us to an Unusual Path? Joining Larry is Lee Mathew Goldberg, author of Ancestor, and the Editor and co-founder of Fringe a company that publishes works that are “outside the box”. Lee speaks about his influences and inspirations, challenging yourself as an author and how to translate that challenge … Continue reading Episode 13 – Is There a Thread That Connects Us to an Unusual Path – Lee Matthew Goldberg & The Ancestor →
Is there a thread that connects us to those that matter? Joining Larry is former Washington DC police officer and Episcopal Reverend Gayle Fisher Stewart, the editor of Preaching Black Lives Matter. Reverend Fisher-Stewart speaks about her experiences with segregation, the American caste system (and how the Nazi’s studied that system), empathy, Black Lives Matter … Continue reading Episode 12 – Is There a Thread that Connects Us to Those that Matter – Rev. Gayle Fisher Stewart & Author Darin Strauss →
Should there be a thread that connects fact to fiction? Novelist, screenwriter, producer Renaissance Man Burt Weissbourd, author or many books including his new work Danger in Plain Sight, discusses his times with Willie Nelson, Al Pacino, working in Hollywood and his approach to writing not only Danger but how his technique is to write as though the … Continue reading Episode 11 – Should There be a Thread That Connects Fact to Fiction – Burt Weissbourd →
How many threads do you need to tell a story? Librarian Bev Wowak from the Mattituck Laurel Library speaks with Larry about Kent State and the new and interesting book releases for September and October 2020. Peter Blauner makes a return appearance reflecting on his time working with the great writer and journalist Pete Hamill. … Continue reading Episode 10 – How Many Threads Do You Need to Tell a Story – Librarian Bev Wowak & Peter Blauner on Pete Hamill →
Stop the world, I want to get off. Yes Virginia, the emperor has no clothes. Yes Virginia, facts are facts. What happens when one thread in the American tapestry is mutated or changed? Joining Larry on this episode, Peter Blauner, Novelist of such works as Sunrise Highway, Proving Ground,The Intruder, The Last Good Day, Man … Continue reading Episode 9 – What Happens When One Thread in the American Tapestry is Mutated or Changed – Authors Peter Blauner and →
Is there a thread that connects the past, the present and the future? Larry welcomes authors Phil Keith and Tom Clavin, authors of All Blood Runs Red: The Legendary Life of Eugene Bullard―Boxer, Pilot, Soldier, Spy. The authors discuss the extraordinary life of Eugene Bullard, an African-American who led a dynamic life under extreme and difficult … Continue reading Episode 8 – Is There a Thread that Connects the Past, the Present & the Future – Authors Phil Keith and Tom Clavin →
Is there a thread that gives us a connection to a super power inside us all? Larry discusses the significance of the numbers 13, 41, 42 and 99 and laments the tragedy of Kobe Bryant and his daughter GiGi, Sachem North teacher and volleyball coach Matt DiStefano and “Aunt Ada”. Larry also ponders the connection … Continue reading Episode 7 – Is There a Thread that Gives Us a Connection to a Super Power Inside Us All – Singer Songwriter Pete Mancini →
What is the Thread that Connects Who You Were, to Who You Are? Larry is joined by Angelo Fraboni, Artistic Director of the Madison Theater at Molloy College in Rockville Centre, New York. Angelo talks about his beginnings as a child learning the art of Ballet in Minnesota and his journey that has taken him … Continue reading Epsiode 6 – What is the Thread that Connects Who You Were, to Who You Are – Angelo Fraboni from Madison Theater and Brian D. Caplan, Attorney and Author →
What is the thread that connects a story to a storyteller? Larry is joined by John Theissen. John is the founder of the John Theissen Children’s Foundation which came to be in 1992. John tells the story of his diagnosis of brain cancer at 17, his recovery and the inspiration to start his foundation. John … Continue reading Episode 5 – What is the Thread that Connects a Story to a Storyteller – John Theissen from the John Theissen Children’s Foundation and Author Susan Isaacs →
What is the thread that connects a story to an audience? Larry sits down with Joseph Kanon, New York Times best selling author of the works Defectors, Leaving Berlin, Los Alamos, Istanbul Passage, and his latest work The Accomplice. Joseph talks about The Accomplice, relationships with families and the perspective of a child and how … Continue reading Episode 4 – The Thread that Connects a Story to an Audience – Author Joseph Kanon and Film Maker Gerry Ferretti →
What is the thread that connects the intersection between good and evil, right and wrong and those in that orbit? Today Larry speaks with New York Times bestselling author Reed Farrel Coleman. Reed has been described as a hard boiled poet and noir poet laureate. Reed chats with Larry about how he develops characters and … Continue reading Episode 3 – The Intersection Between Good & Evil, Right & Wrong – Author Reed Farrel Coleman and Independent Actor and Executive Producer Francis Leik →
What is the thread that connects a parent to a child and a child to a parent? Today Larry speaks to Alex DeMille, son of Nelson DeMille who co-authored the book The Deserter. Alex speaks about when he first became cognizant of his father’s fame, what it was like collaborating on this project along with their … Continue reading Episode 2 – The Thread Between a Child & a Parent Alex DeMille and Caroline Doctorow →
Thomas Maier, author and journalist visits the podcast to talk about the inside story of the CIA, gangsters, JFK & Castro. Wes Houston, singer/songwriter also drops in and plays some music!