Best Ballplayers Podcasts (2024)

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#64 - Ballplayers in the Trenches: WWI's Chemical Warfare Heroes 53:53

24d ago53:53

53:53

Journey with us into the little-known world of WWI baseball, where big-league stars like Christy Mathewson and Ty Cobb traded their uniforms for gas masks. In this episode, we sit down with historian and author Jim Leeke (author of ‘The Gas and Flame Men’) to uncover the incredible stories of major leaguers who bravely served in the Chemical Warfar…

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#67 - Beyond Meditation: Oren Jay Sofer on Transforming Your Life 50:40

3d ago50:40

50:40

Oren Jay Sofer is a renowned author, meditation teacher, and nonviolent communication expert. His latest book, "Your Heart Was Made For This", offers a fresh perspective on contemplative practice, mindfulness, and personal transformation. Previously, Oren published the highly acclaimed "Say What You Mean: A Mindful Approach to Nonviolent Communicat…

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#66 - Chikodi Anunobi on The Thief and the Patriot: Unraveling Nigeria's Complex Culture 41:07

10d ago41:07

41:07

Chikodi Anunobi is a talented Nigerian-born author who fearlessly tackles the complex issues of corruption, tribal conflicts, and political scandals in his gripping novel, "The Thief and the Patriot." With a unique perspective shaped by his upbringing in Nigeria and his experiences in the United States, Chikodi brings a fresh voice to the world of …

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#65 - Hanging with Hugo: Crafting a Killer Mystery Novel with Katherine Bolger Hyde 49:49

17d ago49:49

49:49

Katherine Bolger Hyde is a talented author who has found her niche in the world of cozy mysteries. With a background in Russian literature and a love for British culture, she brings a unique perspective to her writing. In her "Crime with the Classics" series, she skillfully weaves together her passion for classic literature with intriguing mysterie…

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#63 - Escaping the Nazis: A Remarkable Tale of Survival and Resilience ('American Wolf' by Audrey Birnbaum) 59:29

1M ago59:29

59:29

Today we have a conversation with Audrey Birnbaum, doctor turned author, as she shares her father's remarkable tale of survival and resilience. In 'American Wolf,' we uncover the astonishing story of a man who escaped Nazi Germany, only to return as an American spy. Audrey's engaging storytelling and fascinating family history will leave you on the…

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#62 - Inside the Blaze: The Untold Story of the Windsor Tragedy 57:43

1M ago57:43

57:43

Today we unravel the lingering questions surrounding one of the deadliest fires in New York history with Marlie Wasserman, author of "Inferno on Fifth." What started the blaze that destroyed an entire city block and left 100+ dead on St. Patrick's Day 1899? Why was the true cause never determined? Marlie offers her take on these mysteries, shares h…

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#61 - Untamed America: Rediscovering Our Wild Heritage with Ruby McConnell 51:22

2M ago51:22

51:22

Join us for a ride through America's untamed wilderness with Ruby McConnell, author of the book "Wilderness and the American Spirit." In this episode, we uncover the hidden histories and unsung heroes that shaped our nation's vast landscapes, from the intrepid Applegate brothers to the controversial conservationist Gifford Pinchot. Brimming with ta…

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#60 - The Master Manipulator: Dean Jobb and the Empire of Deception 53:36

2M ago53:36

53:36

Today we're joined by true crime author Dean Jobb, who brings historical misdeeds to life with a focus on narrative over sensationalism. We discuss his notable works, including "The Empire of Deception" and his insights into crafting engaging nonfiction. Dean also shares his journey from journalism to authorship and his philosophy on teaching story…

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#59 - Discovering "The War Librarian" with Author Addison Armstrong 43:48

2M ago43:48

43:48

Today we explore compelling historical fiction and the power of the written word with young author Addison Armstrong. We discuss her captivating novel "The War Librarian," a tale spanning two eras and highlighting themes of WWI, censorship, perseverance, and breaking boundaries. Armstrong shares her writing journey – from college dreams to publishe…

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#58 - Deadly Plots and Corporate Greed: Inside Otho Eskin's "Firetrap" 48:23

2M ago48:23

48:23

Today we sit down with author Otho Eskin, a former Foreign Service officer turned novelist. After decades spent negotiating global treaties, Eskin now spins tales of danger and intrigue. His Marko Zorn detective series exposes threats to America, from rogue militias to corrupt corporations. Eskin's latest, "Firetrap," tackles a dangerously addictiv…

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#57 - Murder Amidst the Antiques: C.L. Miller Uncovered 44:27

2M ago44:27

44:27

Today we explore the captivating world of antiques and mysteries with debut author C.L. Miller, discussing her novel "The Antique Hunter's Guide to Murder." Join us as we navigate the intriguing intersections of literature, antiques, and the craft of storytelling, guided by Miller's own experiences and the rich background she brings from a life sur…

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#56 - Lost and Found: The Battle for Art in WWII's Darkest Hours 52:35

3M ago52:35

52:35

In this episode, we welcome Laura Morelli, the esteemed author of "The Last Masterpiece," for a captivating conversation on art's resilience during World War II. Laura shares her journey from Georgia to Yale, where her passion for art history and creative writing intertwined, leading to a career that brings the past's colors to the present. Togethe…

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#55 - From Seattle to the Spirit Realm: P.L. Hampton’s Journey with 'Shadowland' 46:23

3M ago46:23

46:23

Today we talk with P.L. Hampton, the author of 'Shadowland', exploring his creative process and the rich tapestry of themes in his latest book. We discuss how Hampton's personal experiences and cultural heritage shape the narrative, blending African and African American traditions with suspenseful, paranormal elements. Hampton shares insights into …

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#54 - Warsaw's Secret Pages: Madeline Martin on 'The Keeper of Hidden Books' 48:49

3M ago48:49

48:49

Today we talk with bestselling author Madeline Martin, exploring her latest work, "The Keeper of Hidden Books." Set against the backdrop of WWII Warsaw, the story highlights the courageous efforts to protect literature from Nazi suppression. We discuss Martin's unique journey from a business background to becoming a prolific historical fiction writ…

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#53 - Beyond the Banana: Jacqueline Alnes' Journey Through Health and Hoaxes 51:50

3M ago51:50

51:50

Today we dive into the life of Jacqueline Alnes, an author and educator with a unique story to tell. We discuss her upcoming book, "The Fruit Cure," her diverse upbringing moving across the United States and Indonesia, and her transition from swimming to long-distance running. Jacqueline's journey includes her academic pursuits in creative writing,…

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#52 - Exploring Historical Shadows: A Conversation with Eric Weintraub on 'South of Sepharad' 42:31

4M ago42:31

42:31

Today we venture into the historical intricacies of 1492 Spain with Eric Weintraub, author of "South of Sepharad.” Weintraub's journey from a captivating trip to Granada to penning a novel illuminates the lesser-known sagas of Jewish and Muslim expulsions. His book delves into the life of Vidal, a Jewish physician, and his family's turbulent experi…

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#51 - Assassination Conspiracy: What Really Happened to Abraham Lincoln 47:23

4M ago47:23

47:23

Dive into the enigmatic world of Abraham Lincoln's assassination with John Fazio. This episode peels back layers of history, revealing a complex conspiracy extending beyond John Wilkes Booth. Fazio, armed with insights from his book "The Assassination of Abraham Lincoln: Four Smoking Guns," challenges traditional narratives, suggesting Confederate …

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#50 - Soaring High, Falling Hard: The R101 Airship's Ill-Fated Journey with S. C. Gwynne 51:15

5M ago51:15

51:15

Join us for a riveting exploration into the heart of early 20th-century aviation as we welcome author S. C. Gwynne to discuss his latest book, "His Majesty's Airship." Gwynne, transitioning from his journalistic roots at Time Magazine to the solitude of authorship, illuminates the ambitious yet disastrous story of the British Empire's R101 airship.…

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#49 - Mystery in the Mountains: Diane Kelly's Cozy Journey 45:33

5M ago45:33

45:33

Today we delve into Diane Kelly's transition from accountant to acclaimed cozy mystery writer, author of "Snow Place for Murder." Discover the evolution of the genre and Diane's unique storytelling, featuring non-human narrators and local color from her North Carolina retreat. We explore the intricacies of crafting engaging mysteries and her collab…

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#48 - 13 Must-Have Books for Your Gift List This Holiday Season 41:08

5M ago41:08

41:08

Looking for the perfect holiday gift? Dive into our exclusive "Baker's Dozen Christmas Gift List" in this episode, where we reveal a selection of books that are anything but ordinary. Moving beyond typical bestseller charts, our journey through literature uncovers a rich array of choices. From a thrilling espionage novel in Romania to an insightful…

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#47 - Echoes of the Blitz: Mike Hutton's Journey through Wartime Britain 49:01

5M ago49:01

49:01

Today, we're joined by Mike Hutton, the author of "The Children of the 1940s." Hutton, an 85-year-old Englishman, shares his unique experiences of growing up during World War II in London. He paints a vivid picture of British life during the war, highlighting the extensive rationing, the Morrison table, and the class distinctions that shaped living…

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#46 - Echoes of Life in Literature: Deborah Jenkins on 'Winter Lights' 43:52

5M ago43:52

43:52

Join us in a captivating conversation with Deborah Jenkins, the mastermind behind the enchanting short story collection, "Winter Lights." Broadcasting from her home in Sussex, Jenkins unveils her unique journey as an author who has triumphed over personal challenges, including “profound deafness.” Her story is a testament to the power of resilience…

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#45 - Navigating the Labyrinth of Mystery: A Dialogue with Sam Boush 48:32

6M ago48:32

48:32

In this episode, we pull back the veil on the enigmatic world of mystery and suspense with none other than Sam Boush, the architect of the treasure trove that is MysteryandSuspense.com. Our dialogue takes a turn into the corridors of a website that began as a beacon in the pandemic's solitude. Here, every story, every review, every interview is a p…

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#44 - From Legal Briefs to Opera Scores: Scott Lord on Weaving Law, Lyrics, and Love Stories Across Time 50:33

6M ago50:33

50:33

Step into the vibrant world of Scott Lord—trial lawyer, author, and librettist—as we explore the layers of history, passion, and creativity that fill his life and work. In an exclusive chat, we unravel how his eclectic pursuits blend together, from his recent historical fiction thriller "Come November," inspired by a 1947 UN assembly, to crafting o…

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#43 - Revisiting a Legend: Charlie Chaplin's Exile, Family Drama, and a Conversation with Biographer Scott Eyman 46:38

6M ago46:38

46:38

What if we told you that the man behind the iconic Tramp character was as dramatic off-screen as he was on? In this rich conversation with Scott Eyman, the biographer renowned for documenting Hollywood's Golden Age, we shed new light on Charlie Chaplin. We're not just revisiting Chaplin's slapstick brilliance, but venturing into the untold complexi…

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#42 - Colonial America Reimagined: A Journey Through Time with Brinda Charry and "The East Indian" 43:33

6M ago43:33

43:33

Brace yourselves for a riveting conversation that bends the arc of history, as we explore Brinda Charry's groundbreaking novel, "The East Indian." Why does Tony, the first Indian immigrant in colonial America, matter today? It's a tale that navigates the convoluted terrains of marginalization, identity, and the blurred lines of servitude. With a pa…

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#41 - Art from Ashes: How Stephen Kiernan’s WWII Novel Illuminates a Path to Healing 51:03

6M ago51:03

51:03

Today we welcome author Stephen Kiernan to discuss his novel, "The Glass Chateau"—a story that journeys beyond battlefields to post-World War II France, capturing the life of Asher, an assassin turned artist inspired by Marc Chagall. Within the fictional town of Clovide, this narrative explores love, loss, and the transformative power of stained gl…

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#40 - Mysteries at Sea: Nev March's Intricate Web of History and Whodunits 48:26

7M ago48:26

48:26

Set sail with us on a journey filled with suspense, history, and unexpected twists. In this episode, we sit down with the brilliant Nev March, the creator of the captivating series featuring Captain Jim and Lady Diana. Learn about Nev's remarkable shift from a corporate career to the world of fiction and the true events and literary influences that…

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#39 - Racing the Clock and Each Other: The Globe-Trotting Journalists Who Defied an Era 24:37

7M ago24:37

24:37

In a break from our regular programming, we turn the spotlight on an extraordinary race that gripped the world in the late 1880s. Think you know competition? Meet Nellie Bly and Elizabeth Bisland, two daring female journalists who embarked on a whirlwind journey inspired by Jules Verne's fictional odyssey. With little time to prepare and the eyes o…

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#38 - Two Timelines, One Bakery: Unearthing Secrets from Paris's Montmartre 41:33

7M ago41:33

41:33

Join us as we venture into the cobbled streets of Paris's Montmartre with Aimie Runyan, the creative force behind the novel "A Bakery in Paris." We journey through time, experiencing the Franco-Russian War and WWII through the eyes of Lisette and Michelin, connected across generations by family and the smell of fresh bread. We also dive deep into A…

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#37 - Untold Horrors of WWII: Heather B. Moore on Java's Overlooked History 49:32

7M ago49:32

49:32

Step into the pages of history that often escape the limelight. Join us as we explore Heather B. Moore's "Under the Java Moon," a compelling narrative that opens the curtains on Java's POW camps during WWII—a place where even whispers had eyes. Starting each chapter with real survivor accounts, this novel reveals how families, torn from their lives…

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#36 - Karaoke Showdown & Tourist Meltdowns: The Wild Side of Being Human 43:48

8M ago43:48

43:48

Ali Bryan takes us on a riveting journey through the intricacies of human behavior, set against the unlikely but compelling stage of a karaoke championship and a prison break. Bryan, the mastermind behind the spellbinding "The Crow Valley Karaoke Championships," exposes us to characters wrestling with identity, second chances, and the perpetual str…

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#35 - The Dark Underbelly of Food Crimes: From Maple Syrup Heists to Artichoke Mafias 40:03

8M ago40:03

40:03

Ever wondered why cheese is the most stolen food or how maple syrup can be a hotbed for criminal activity? In this riveting episode, we sit down with Chris Garcia, the mind behind the eye-opening book "Food and Crime," to explore these questions and more. We dive into the four major categories of food-related crimes: theft, fraud, organized crime, …

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#34 - Rewriting the '50s: The Women of Radcliffe College and the Power of the Page 47:05

8M ago47:05

47:05

In this episode, we sit down with Julia Bryan Thomas, the creative mind behind the evocative novel "The Radcliffe Ladies’ Reading Club: A Novel.” Journey with us as we explore the transformative years of the 1950s through the eyes of four first-year students at Radcliffe College. Julia shares her own literary journey, from a childhood filled with l…

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Ep 70: Facing a Chronic Illness, Becoming a Pro Ballplayer and Seeing the Story Turned into a Hollywood Movie - Rickey Hill 16:59

8M ago16:59

16:59

Former pro player Rickey Hill shares from his incredible story which has been turned into a movie called The Hill releasing August 25 starring Dennis Quaid and Colin Ford. He shares of being born with a degenerative spinal disease yet went on to play four seasons in the minor leagues with the Montreal Expos on Episode 70. Here are some of the highl…

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#33 - A Summer of Books from Doc Holliday to John Grisham – Unveiling a Booklover's Haven! 11:32

8M ago11:32

11:32

Join us as we explore a summer's worth of reading – from a unique fictionalized take on Doc Holliday to the latest John Grisham's novel, and everything in between! Discover the gems and the disappointments, hear about upcoming author interviews, and get excited for a fall full of diverse reads. From historical fiction to crime and culinary tales, w…

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[From the archive] #10 - The Mysterious Death of Racehorse Alydar: A Tale of Suspicion and Intrigue with Fred M. Kray 51:31

9M ago51:31

51:31

Today I speak with author and animal welfare lawyer Fred M. Kray about his book on the death of the legendary racehorse Alydar. Kray shares the story of how he became interested in animal law and his journey investigating the suspicious circumstances surrounding Alydar's death in 1990. The conversation covers the financial pressures facing Alydar's…

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#32 - Summer of 1876: A Tapestry of History, Old West Legends, & Baseball's Birth with Chris Wimmer 52:26

9M ago52:26

52:26

Join us as we saddle up with historian, author, and podcaster Chris Wimmer to explore the rich tapestry of the Old West in the summer of 1876. From the infamous Custer's Last Stand to the birth of professional baseball, Chris offers a glimpse into key events that shaped a nation. We'll also journey into the minds of Western legends like Wyatt Earp …

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[From the archive] #4 - The Future of Books: A conversation with Peter Briscoe, author of "The Bookseller" 48:13

9M ago48:13

48:13

Join us as we delve into the world of books and libraries with Peter Briscoe, author of the novels "The Bookseller," "The Best Read Men in France," and more. As a former head librarian, Peter brings a wealth of knowledge and insight on the current state of the industry and the impact of technology on reading and preservation. This episode is a must…

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#31 - Reimagining History: Colin Mustful on "Reclaiming Mni Sota" and The Coffee Controversy 46:27

9M ago46:27

46:27

Today we sit down with accomplished author Colin Mustful to discuss his upcoming alternate history novel, "Reclaiming Mni Sota." As we dive into a conversation about the largely overlooked US-Dakota War of 1862, we explore the unique narrative styles used to bring to life two characters, Samuel and Waabi. Mustful enlightens us about his background,…

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#30 - From Bucharest to Books: Author William Maz on Espionage, Authenticity, and the Legacy of Oligarchs 46:14

9M ago46:14

46:14

Today we speak with William Maz, acclaimed author of "The Bucharest Legacy: The Rise of the Oligarchs," an intriguing tale set amidst the socio-political turmoil of 1990s Romania. Born in Romania to Greek parents, Maz brings a unique perspective to his writing, artfully blending personal experiences with a deft understanding of history and culture.…

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#29 - Beyond the Book: Diane Bergner on Philanthropy, Fashion and Fiction 38:50

10M ago38:50

38:50

Today we're joined by Diane Bergner, a Florida-based author and Vice President of Development at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. Bergner, a former attorney, shares the parallels between her career journey and the intriguing lead character of her book, "The Royal Coconut Beach Lunch Club." We explore the glamorous and gritty world of non-…

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#28 - Churchill's Legacy & The Modern Watch: A Dialogue with Justin Reash 44:25

10M ago44:25

44:25

Today we welcome Justin Reash, the executive director of the International Churchill Society. Join us as we navigate the complex and fascinating life of Sir Winston Churchill - the celebrated British leader who authored over 40 million words and left an indelible impact on history. Justin shares intriguing insights about Churchill's writing process…

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Ep 69: Launching a Career with NASA, Chasing Music Dreams in Nashville and Solving a Niche Problem - Willie Shaw 36:28

10M ago36:28

36:28

Former D1 college player Willie Shaw shares from his journey launching his career with NASA to currently living in Nashville working for a VC backed tech startup while songwriting and singing on Episode 69. Here are some of the highlights from our conversation… 1. Why he chose to get a knowledge based Bachelor's degree and combined it with a specif…

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#27 - Dramatic Shadows: A Conversation with Craig Russell on 'The Devil's Playground' and Early Hollywood Mystique 52:38

10M ago52:38

52:38

Travel back in time with esteemed author Craig Russell to explore the enthralling world of his latest novel, "The Devil's Playground." With a backdrop of 1920s Hollywood, Russell presents a riveting blend of historical fact and fiction that will capture the imagination of film buffs, history lovers, and avid readers alike. This episode dives into t…

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#26 - Aloha Mysteries & Legal Intrigue: Robert McCaw & The Koa Kane Series 45:01

10M ago45:01

45:01

Prepare for a journey to the heart of Hawaii as we discuss the engrossing Koa Kane mystery series and much more on this episode of "Books and Looks". Dive into "Retribution", the latest thrilling entry in the series, where the islands themselves become vivid characters under the pen of Robert McCaw, today’s guest and master storyteller. McCaw opens…

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#25 - Unraveling Victorian Mysteries with Will Thomas & My Take on the Restaurant Scene 48:00

11M ago48:00

48:00

Today we have the pleasure of hosting award-winning author Will Thomas. We dive deep into his latest book, "Heart of the Nile," part of his captivating detective series set in the Victorian era. Will shares his unique writing process, his insights on the historical context of his series, and his future plans for his characters, Barker and Llewelyn.…

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#24 - Stepping into the Austen-Verse: Claudia Gray on Reinventing the Classics 44:02

11M ago44:02

44:02

Today we welcome Claudia Gray, acclaimed YA author turned historical mystery novelist. We dive into her latest work, "The Late Mrs. Willoughby", a captivating merger of Jane Austen's nuanced world-building with Agatha Christie's intrigue. Experience a unique behind-the-scenes tour as Gray unpacks her career transition, the inspirations behind her n…

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#23 - Espionage Meets Fiction: Brittany Butler on 'The Syndicate Spy' 33:28

11M ago33:28

33:28

I'm thrilled to bring you an engaging conversation with Brittany Butler, debut author of "The Syndicate Spy". Brittany, a former CIA tracker, draws from her real-life experiences to craft a gripping narrative set 30 years into the future. We discuss how her unique perspective informs the depiction of women in espionage, and the intricate dance betw…

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Ep 68: Making It to the Show by 21, Overcoming Setbacks and Reinventing Yourself After Playing - Michael Barrett 55:09

11M ago55:09

55:09

Former big league vet and Silver Slugger Award winner Michael Barrett shares from his 12 year MLB playing career, coaching in the Nationals organization and getting into business afterwards on Episode 68. Here are some of the highlights from our conversation… 1. The setbacks he faced in the initial years after making it to big leagues by 21 after b…

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