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Old School Old Friends

Solomon Williams and Dave Kropf

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Do you have that one friend in your life who you’ve known forever and no matter how much time goes by you can pick up right where you left off – talk money, religion, politics, relationships, growing up and getting old? Join lifelong friends, Solomon Williams and Dave Kropf, as they share their different perspectives coming from different backgrounds on many different topics!
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show series
 
In this episode, Dave and Sol discuss life milestones, aging, and how they've experienced birthdays over the years. From missing out on typical 21st birthday festivities due to boot camp, to how their parents might have felt at their age. Have a comment, question, or topic suggestion? Let us know at oldschoololdfriends@gmail.com! © 2023 818 Studios…
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In this episode, Dave and Sol chat about the importance of knowing when it's time to move on, drawing from Dave's recent tiring gig and Sol's busy life with school and his relationship. They touch on the need for balance, having a good support system, and being true to yourself when making big decisions. Have a comment, question, or topic suggestio…
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In this episode, Dave and Sol discuss the challenges of balancing school responsibilities and the intricacies of effective note-taking. Solomon shares his academic journey, emphasizing the importance of classroom positioning due to sensory limitations and reflecting on the evolving nature of his academic challenges. Have a comment, question, or top…
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In this episode, Dave and Sol discuss a "whites only" mom and tot group advertisement in Canada, exploring the nuances of cultural identity, heritage, and the challenges of exclusion versus celebration. They contrast this with other exclusive groups, like a women's only group at Sol's school, and reflect on how historical actions influence current …
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In this episode, Dave and Sol get real about their personal journeys with religion, exploring how their upbringings influenced them and how their beliefs have shifted over time. They candidly discuss their past experiences and the evolution of their religious perspectives. Have a comment, question, or topic suggestion? Let us know at oldschoololdfr…
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In this episode, Dave and Sol delve into the pressing economic realities many are facing today. From the looming threat of resumed student loan payments to the tangible bite of inflation at the grocery store and gas station. Have a comment, question, or topic suggestion? Let us know at oldschoololdfriends@gmail.com! © 2023 818 Studios.…
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In this episode, Sol and Dave chat about their experiences with hurricanes and the unique challenges that come with them, from Hurricane Idalia making its presence felt near Dave's home in Orlando to past storms like Hurricane Sandy and Hurricane Hugo. They also discuss Sol's journey in psychology, from the demands of coursework and clinical traini…
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In this episode, Dave and Sol delve into the nuances and implications of the dismantling of affirmative action. From the Supreme Court's decisions to the realities of generational wealth and the impact on education and job opportunities, they explore the intertwining issues of race, equity, and representation. Have a comment, question, or topic sug…
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Join Dave and Sol as they delve deep into the unprecedented political climate of the U.S., examining the unique situation of a former president facing multiple indictments. With a historical lens, they question past presidential decisions, like Ford's pardon of Nixon, while drawing parallels to today's polarized environment. Have a comment, questio…
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In this episode, Dave and Sol discuss the entwined realms of online gaming and real-life friendships. Can a game become too real, a virtual friendship as poignant as its physical counterpart? Can the lines blur, leading to unexpected drama, or can they reinforce bonds, making them stronger than ever? From the heady days of Counter-Strike and Diablo…
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In this episode, Dave and Sol dive deep into the intricacies of artificial intelligence in modern academia and other sectors. From the perils of "hallucinated" facts to the evolving nature of songwriting, they touch on both the wonders and worries of relying too heavily on machines. They highlight personal experiences and the recent shockwaves AI h…
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In this episode, Dave and Sol, approaching their 50s, discuss fears about social security insolvency upon their retirement. They highlight current system issues like inadequate benefits, tax caps on high earners, and lack of inflation adjustments. Despite recognizing potential solutions like removing tax caps, adjusting retirement age, and tying pa…
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On this week's episode, Dave and Sol dive into a nostalgic conversation about their shared passion for video games. Dave cherishes their weekly World of Warcraft meet-ups, while Sol eagerly anticipates playing Final Fantasy 16 on his new PS5. They also recall their earliest gaming memories, featuring classic consoles like the Colecovision, Atari, N…
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On this episode, Dave and Sol dive deep into the intricacies of self-awareness, mindfulness, and the art of staying centered amidst life's chaos. Sol explores his journey of self-discovery, explaining how he turned to meditation and yoga after experiencing major life upheavals, and they candidly discuss the challenges of keeping up meditation and y…
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In this episode, Dave and Sol discuss the social and political climate in Florida, exploring the impact of recent travel advisories on the economy and diverse communities. They consider the fallout of discriminatory policies, the future of education, corporate response, and the threat to civil rights, particularly for vulnerable groups. Have a comm…
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In this episode, Sol and Dave dive into the world of social media and its impact on children. They discuss the potential pros and cons of social media on the emotional and cognitive development of kids, as well as the role of legislation in regulating children's access to these platforms. Have a comment, question, or topic suggestion? Let us know a…
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In this episode, Dave and Sol discuss timeshares, homeowners' associations, and Sol's upcoming summer break in Cancun. They touch on the pros and cons of timeshares and compare the pressures of the medical profession to Dave's field of music. Sol shares his recent experience of scoring just below passing on a test for his doctoral program and the s…
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In this episode, Dave and Sol reminisce about their varied renting experiences, from apartments to townhouses. They discuss the challenges of noisy neighbors, dealing with property management companies, and the responsibilities that come with renting older houses or high-rise buildings. Both share anecdotes about their past and current living situa…
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Description: In this episode, Dave and Solomon talk about relationships. Dave starts the discussion by talking about dating his current wife. Solomon offers experience and wisdom about what does not work in a healthy relationship. Both then talk about keys to effective relationships. Have a comment, question, or topic suggestion? Let us know at old…
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In this episode, Dave and Solomon talk all things social media. The two discuss what they like and dislike about the various social media platforms. They next discuss how to get past superficial connections to meaningful relationships with other people. Dave then talks about the dangers of creating an echo chamber and the facade that the majority s…
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Description: Dave and Solomon start this episode by wrapping up the NFL season before shifting to home ownership. The two talk about bankruptcy, short sales, and other challenges that come with buying and selling a home. They then discuss the challenges of renting. The two next discuss the usefulness of homeowners’ associations. Have a comment, que…
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In this episode, Dave and Solomon just catch up with one another. The two talk about higher education and the pursuit of doctoral degrees. Dave next talks about balancing teaching, composing, and musical coaching with his personal relationships. Dave then talks about motorcycling and motovlogging. The two next discuss ADHD testing. Have a comment, …
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In this episode, Dave and Solomon continue their football discussion. They discuss how sports teams can bring people together and give a city identity. They next discuss personal attachment to sports franchises. Have a comment, question, or topic suggestion? Let us know at oldschoololdfriends@gmail.com! © 2023 818 Studios.…
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In this episode, Dave and Solomon discuss professional American football. The two discuss the development of sports loyalties and allegiances. They next discuss traumatic injuries that sometimes occur during football games. Have a comment, question, or topic suggestion? Let us know at oldschoololdfriends@gmail.com! © 2023 818 Studios.…
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In this episode, Dave and Solomon talk about death—specifically the passing of a parent. They discuss responding to death when it is unexpected versus preparing for it when it is expected. The two discuss emotional healing, being at peace before death, and choosing to die on one’s own terms. The two also discuss the importance of cherishing loved o…
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In this episode, Dave and Solomon discuss the U.S. Capitol attack from January 6, 2021. They start by detailing where they were and what they were doing when the attack began. They then break down the attack, the subsequent January 6 Committee hearings, and implications for the future. Have a comment, question, or topic suggestion? Let us know at o…
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In this episode, Dave and Solomon discuss the overturning of Roe v Wade, removing Federal abortion rights. Both begin the discussion by examining other current Federal rights that the Supreme Court could give the states for consideration. They then consider why the overturning of Roe v. Wade happened at this particular time. Finally, the two discus…
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In this episode, Dave and Solomon discuss the concept of “cancel culture.” In addition, the two discuss the removal of Confederate monuments and the rejection of critical race theory. Finally, the episode ends with Dave and Solomon discussing what can be done at the individual level to enact change. Have a comment, question, or topic suggestion? Le…
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Following the Robb Elementary school shooting in Uvalde, Texas, Dave and Solomon tackle the subject of school shootings. The two discuss potential solutions like releasing graphic images to the public; banning the sale of assault rifles to civilians; a federal age to bear arms; a national mental health registry; and education, licensure, and insura…
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In this episode, Dave talks about the decision and process involved in relocating from Memphis, TN to Orlando, FL. Solomon discusses life after retiring from the Coast Guard. The two then discuss spirituality and spiritual growth in their lives. Have a comment, question, or topic suggestion? Let us know at oldschoololdfriends@gmail.com! © 2023 818 …
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In this episode, Solomon details his life from 2002-2012. Specific details include developing a relationship with his son, separating from his ex-wife, reconciliation, divorce, and bankruptcy. Dave follows by talking about a short sale during the housing market crash. The two then discuss bankruptcy, separation, and divorce in greater detail. Have …
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In this episode, Solomon opens up about learning he had a son, the deterioration of his marriage, and forgiveness and personal growth after retirement. Dave talks about life with his wife at the Visible Music College and finishing work on his undergraduate degree. Have a comment, question, or topic suggestion? Let us know at oldschoololdfriends@gma…
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In this episode, Solomon talks about the process of leaving the Air Force Academy, returning home, and ultimately continuing his education at N.C. A&T State University. Solomon and Dave both talk about personal growth, identity, and going from one extreme to another during their college years. Have a comment, question, or topic suggestion? Let us k…
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In this episode, Dave and Solomon open by discussing Solomon’s upcoming Doctor of Psychology program. The two then take a deeper dive into their respective first years at their universities following high school. Solomon starts by recalling his first (and only) year at the U.S. Air Force Academy. Dave follows by detailing his first year at Appalach…
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In this episode Dave and Solomon discuss their high school years. Specifically, both discuss choosing universities (Appalachian State University and the U.S. Air Force Academy, respectively), starting school, and the stigma attached to not finishing. Finally, the two discuss mental health resources available to high school-aged students. Have a com…
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In this episode Dave and Solomon discuss how they met in 1985. They discuss starting middle school band together and the selection of their initial band instruments. The two next discuss encountering wealth class distinctions for the first time before looking ahead at future podcasts. Have a comment, question, or topic suggestion? Let us know at ol…
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