Jeff Bell is an author, speaker, and award-winning broadcast journalist. He was the news voice of KCBS on the West Coast for three decades and among many other honors was a two-time winner of the coveted Edward R Murrow Award for Best Newscast in America. His two books, “Rewind, Replay, Repeat,” and “When in Doubt, Make Belief,” have established Jeff as a leading voice for adversity-driven advocacy, mental health awareness, and “Greater Good” (purpose- and service-based) motivation. Jeff shares with us his challenges with OCD and Parkinson’s Disease and how he has dealt with diversity provides inspiration to listeners across the country!

Today’s episode is guaranteed to make your mouth water! I welcome Matthew Wozny , founder of The Beacon Hill Bakery in Boston. This Harvard MBA grad is also the guy who gets up extra early to craft incredibly delicious baked goods. Matthew creates classic Polish pastries and breads based on the scrumptious treats he grew up loving. He searches the world over and our conversation is as much about Polish royalty and the history of baked goods as it is about the product. Read all about him and his delicacies at www.beaconhillbakery.com!

In part two of a special series on Parkinson’s Disease during April, PD Awareness Month, , we continue our discussion of the book, “Jordan’s Rich Journey: A Path of Purpose, Strength and Hope with Parkinson’s.” I welcome the co-author Dr. John A. DiCicco along with Brett Miller, the founder/owner of 110 Fitness in Rockland, Massachusetts. Brett and his team have created a groundbreaking fitness and training program specifically for people with Parkinson’s Disease and other disabilities. There is strong science to suggest high intensity exercise plays a key role r in slowing down progression and mitigating symptoms. Brett and 110 Fitness ( www.110fitness.org) mean so much to the community and I’m thrilled he can join us to explain how and why 110 Fitness works. On the podcast, we continue to promote the annual Optimism Walk sponsored by the American Parkinson Disease Association of Massachusetts. Proceeds from the sale of the book will go towards both the APDA of Massachusetts and the scholarship campaign at 110 Fitness. Remember that you can take up the fight with fundraising campaigns in your area. There are many reasons for hope as develop new treatments and hopefully a cure!

The Sunday Times says, “You’ll never look at a keyboard the same way after reading Danny Bate’s fascinating, linguistic history.” I couldn’t agree more as we entertain the author of “Why Q Needs U: A History of Our Letters and How We Use Them.”

Danny Bates is a linguist, writer, broadcaster and host of the podcast “A Language I Love Is…”
You’ll come away with a newfound appreciation and respect for one of humanity’s most successful technologies – the alphabet!

Rory Moran serves as Director of Executive Protection & Threat Analysis at United Security, Inc., bringing more than 25 years of experience in law enforcement, corporate security, and protective cyber intelligence. A former U.S. Secret Service Supervisory Special Agent, Rory has led complex protective operations for Presidential, Vice Presidential, Pope, and foreign dignitary visits, as well as National Special Security Events including the United Nations General Assembly.

His expertise spans proactive risk assessment, protective advance strategies, threat intelligence, and high-level security operations. We live in a dangerous world and it is people like Rory who allow us to rest easier. We are grateful for his service.

Today’s guest is truly a man of words and letters!

Robert Pinsky is a poet, essayist, translator, teacher, and speaker. His first two terms as United States Poet Laureate were marked by such visible dynamism—and such national enthusiasm in response—that the Library of Congress appointed him to an unprecedented third term. Throughout his career, Robert Pinsky has been dedicated to identifying and invigorating poetry’s place in the world.

As Poet Laureate, Robert Pinsky founded the Favorite Poem Project, in which thousands of Americans—of varying backgrounds, all ages, and from every state—shared their favorite poems. The project’s videos, giving voice to the American audience for poetry, demonstrate that poetry has a vigorous presence in the American cultural landscape.

Brandon Gilson is the founder and owner of The Best Seats VIP Concierge company. He offers entertainment concierge services to more than 10,000 companies and individuals worldwide. As Brandon puts it, the only limitation is your imagination. He does it all— tickets to the hottest shows, backstage meet-and-greets, celebrity encounters, first class travel amenities and so much more. Meet a young guy who works around the clock making others happy. Dreams can come true!

Joining me in conversation today is Sam Smith, a former professional rugby player from England who due to injury was forced to retire in his middle twenties. Sam soon after became a successful entrepreneur but struggled with identity issues that s0 many former professional athletes do. Like many, he hit bottom but eventually found a path forward. Today Sam serves as a life coach to former athletes across the globe. His lived experience and kindness has helped many men and women regain their life’s purpose. We’ll be talking about his book, “The Door Was Never Locked: Remember What You Are,” and the new life he has built for himself and others.