DE269 All Graduates!, you are an important piece of the “Chain of Love”

All Graduates!, you are an important piece of the “Chain of Love” - dHarmic Evolution Podcast
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Today’s show is all about the chain of love.  

For a big part of America. This is the month of graduation. Characterized by proms, senior nights, epic graduation ceremonies alongside other parties. 

However, with the current global pandemic, so many have had to cancel or postpone this key milestone of their lives.  

After my brother reached out to me earlier this month, I could tell he was empathetic about his daughter, and my niece – Cassy -. This was because they could only hold a small celebration in light of the current restrictions set countrywide to curb the spread of the virus.  

So, do you know anyone that is graduating? Whether it’s 8th grade, high-school, university, or any kind of milestone in their life? It’s important that we appreciate and celebrate this event in a special way that makes them feel loved and cared for. 

One of the ways we can do this is through calling. A voice is a very powerful tool. You can use it as a first aid kit to aid someone close to you who is struggling through the current pandemic, be it the graduate or someone struggling in any given life situation.  

Cheering them up and bringing a ray of hope and happiness in their life is only a call away. I prefer calling, but if you can’t get through, at least text them you were thinking of them! 

Chain of Love. 

 Chain of love is a song I wrote in dedication to my older son graduating high school. 

After an inspirational speech by the principal, I was instantly moved by the whole event and started writing the song in my subconscious.  

After years of procrastination. I finally produced the song back in 2010 with help from “Studio Pros” a West Coast online recording studio headed up by Katie O’Toole.  

You can listen to the song at the end of the show, and if you’re moved and inspired by it, then please, share it with somebody who you feel needs the inspiration too.  

(Find the lyrics of the Chain of Love song at the end of the show notes) 

“Here to Share and Care” – A lesson on gratitude and support 

Life has its ups and downs. Sometimes we’re strong, and other times we are weak. If you’re in your season of strength, try and support the people who are not feeling it right now and need your assistance. 

Look around you. So many people have way less than what you have but are happier than you are.  

A video I saw on Facebook that really touched me magnified this lesson for me. A woman who had a child who seemed to be about 2-3 years old, and had no arms or legs. 

The little kid was at a playground and would climb himself up on the slide stairs using his head as a point of leverage before launching himself down the slide, and his mom would be waiting at the end to catch him.  

The little boy was laughing and all smiles as was his Mom, they both looked to be very happy and content with life without a care in the world. Perhaps there is a lesson here for us all? 

In conclusion. I’d like to give my thanks to Luna Keller and Lisa Crouch, both artists were previous guests of the DE Podcast and were kind enough to respond to my “Here to Share and Care” video project.  

Timestamps 

(2:25) The struggle graduates are going through 

(5:23) The Chain of Love 

(7:48) Just a call Away by Lisa Crouch 

(16:02) Alice is in love with a Mad hatter by Luna Keller 

(21:41) Always be grateful – It could be a lot worse.  

(23:38) Back story of Chain of Love 

(27:03) Listen to Chain of Love 

Selected Links and Mentions 

The Chain of Love 

They came into the world as babies, 

then left these hallowed halls as fine young, men and ladies 

And I felt a sense of pride and wonder, to be included among 

the many, pieces of the chain, the chain of Love 

 

Reflections in the way your smile, carry countless childhood 

memories and the sparks of love ignite across the silent spaces 

of our tried and trusted teenage trepidation 

And we all wrapped our hands around the chain, the chain of love, chain of love 

 

We built a chain, stronger than steel 

A chain of Love, and that’s how it feels 

Just like the wind, brings a new rain, 

A chain of love burns like a flame, a chain of love, chain of love 

 

Your graduation, I sat and watched your mother’s tears, 

trace your footsteps one by one through all those wonderful years 

And me sometimes I feel so sad and small and lonely, but 

I know you will always help me hold my place inside 

This chain of love, a chain of love, this chain of love, this chain of love 

 

We built a chain, stronger than steel 

A chain of Love, and that’s how it feels 

Just like the wind, brings a new rain, 

A chain of love burns like a flame,  

 

A chain of love, stronger than steel 

this chain of love, and that’s how it feels, 

this chain of love, stronger than steel  

this chain of love, that’s how it feels, stronger than steel, 

That’s how it feels, this chain of love………. 

Written and produced by James Kevin O’Connor 

As always, thanks a lot for being a part of the dHarmic evolution podcast, be sure to subscribe to the podcast and connect with us on social media.

Follow our Podcast on Facebook Twitter Instagram 

You can also see the show on The James O’Connor Agency YouTube channel and join our community on dHarmic Evolution Community Facebook Group 

 

DE268 Captain Tom Moore #1 on the UK Charts, and his inspirational Life story

Captain Tom Moore #1 on the UK Charts, and his inspirational Life story - dHarmic Evolution Podcast
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99 Years Old. Served his country in the 2nd world war and won medals for his heroic achievement. Worked as a sales manager before finally retiring in 1987. Beat skin cancer and several hip-related surgeries. Raced and won numerous motorcycle contests and even contested in T.V shows. You might think that Captain Tom Moore would be content with his long list of life achievements to retire from any kind of service and take it easy. But oh no, Captain Tom Moore has recently broken a long list of records by raising over 33 Million Pounds in a donation to support the NHS in the current Covid-19 pandemic. On 6th April 2020, Captain Tom, aged 99 began taking walk laps with the goal of raising 1,000 pounds by his 100th birthday. Twenty four days later on his 100th birthday, Captain Tom had inspired over 1.5 million individual donations, with the total number of donations amassing to over 32.79 Million pounds. Captain Tom’s Bio Born at Keighley, in the West Riding of Yorkshire, on 30th April 2020 Captain Tom served in the British army during the 2nd world war from 1940 to 1945. Captain Tom has been awarded four medals for his war service during the war. After leaving the army, he worked as a sales manager for a roofing company in Yorkshire, and later as a managing director of a Fens-based company manufacturing concrete, “Cawood Concrete Products Ltd”, which was later renamed “March Concrete Products Ltd”, after he led a management buyout in 1983. The company was sold to ARC in 1987, and for 64 years he organized the DWR annual reunion. Breaking records with his Music Career. To Mark Captain Tom’s 100th Lap, singer Michael Ball sang “You’ll Never Walk Alone” for him live on a BBC Broadcast. The performance was made into a digital single featuring the NHS Voices of Care Choir, and Moore’s spoken words. The song was released on 17 April, with all proceeds going to NHS Charities. 7 days later the song went straight to number one on the weekly UK singles chart. Making Captain Tom the oldest person to achieve this feat. Moore’s story of love and resilience has inspired similar charity walks by several other individuals in the U.K. And by doing so, proved that age is just a number. You’re never too old to craft that new life you’ve always dreamed of. And that above all, there’s always a ray of hope and sunshine even in the darkest of days. Timestamps (3:11) Captain Tom’s background info (8:07) Elsie MacGill – The Canadian Queen of Hurricanes (10:41) Captains Tom’s legendary 2020 Walk (14:11) Topping the UK Charts, Captain Tom’s Music Career (16:17) Listen to Captain Tom’s You’ll Never Walk Alone (20:42) Recognizing Captain Tom’s inspirational acts (23:19) Breaking 2 Guinness World Book Records (25:26) Namesakes to honor Captain Tom (27:47) Inspiring similar fundraising walks. Selected Links and Mentions As always, thanks a lot for being a part of the dHarmic evolution podcast, be sure to subscribe to the podcast and connect with us on social media. Follow our Podcast on Facebook Twitter Instagram You can also see the show on The James O’Connor Agency YouTube channel and join our community on dHarmic Evolution Community Facebook Group 

DE267 “Flyin”, Are You Brave Enough To Take Your First Flight?

“Flyin”, Are You Brave Enough To Take Your First Flight? - dHarmic Evolution Podcast
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Today’s show will be brief and revolve around a wonderful nature experience that I was very lucky to be a part of.

A new tweeting family recently moved in the front of my porch. Finches.

From the creative hard-work, they put in when building their nests, around Mid-March this year, all the way to laying and hatching their eggs into little chicks. The entire experience was very sublime in a very personal way to me.

With each passing day, and with the help of my phone and selfie-stick. I was able to have an up-close view of how the little chicks went through the circle of life with the help and support of their parents and each other.

Seeing that her baby chicks are getting bigger, the mother finch, in an effort to motivate her little ones into believing in themselves, would stop feeding the chicks directly, but rather, hovering just outside the nest coaxing them to approach the edge of the nest and go for their first flight.

Insights.

Watching those little birds go through the circle of life; moving in, building a home, having chicks, feeding them, and pushing them into believing they can fend for themselves and have the strength to fly was a beautiful and eye-opening lesson that I had the pleasure of seeing unfold every day before my eyes.

We should learn to do the same in our lives.

We should have the confidence to believe in our capabilities – or pushing those that count on us to kick out the fear in their lives and through confidence, embrace their true and full potential –

And just as the bird flies, so should we. Fly through life in a celebratory way, rise above the fear and troubles of life, and soar every day, looking at life from different levels and angles.

Timestamps

(00:50) New tweeting neighbors

(3:55) Experiencing the growth of the little birds

(5:27) Taking off for the first time

(13:57) Listen to Butterfly by Cynthia Brando

(15:38) Listen to the Country girl by Alyssa Marie Coon

(22:56) Listen to Flying

Selected links and mentions

DE257 Alyssa Marie Coon, age is “Oblivious” to talent and determination!
DE161 Cynthia Brando | Ubiquitous musical spirit championing the love and the talent of others for the benefit of all
https://newschannel9.com/

As always, thanks a lot for being a part of the dHarmic evolution podcast, be sure to subscribe to the podcast and connect with us on social media.

Follow our Podcast on Facebook Twitter Instagram 

You can also see the show on The James O’Connor Agency YouTube channel and join our community on dHarmic Evolution Community Facebook Group 

 

DE266 Too much Zoom in The Room? Technology, and your best U!

Too much Zoom in The Room? Technology, and your best U! - dHarmic Evolution Podcast
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I hope you’re all fairing well and strong through yet another week of the tough Covid-19 global pandemic.

There won’t be any talk of the virus in today’s show. Instead, I’ll be reviewing my experience with Technology over the years, and give you insights on why going for top quality in every Tech project you have going on, is the key to your success.

Recording Interview’s via Skype or Zoom

This week, I had the opportunity to be interviewed and perform live via Skype, on “This N’ That” a show featured on WABC TV, Chattanooga TN.

Personally, I only use Skype for regular calls with the V.As who help me out with producing the dHarmic Evolution podcast/TV show.

I’m more accustomed to using “Zoom” for the actual DE podcast for video, and, despite not having used Skype for such work in about 1 and a half years, I was not only able to enjoy the entire interview and performance but also left the host of the show James Howard very impressed with the sound quality of my interview. (Make a statement with good audio!)

The numerous singers and songwriters that I’ve had the pleasure of interviewing on the show can bear witness on my commitment to producing shows with only high quality .wav format songs. Because that’s the format I request they submit their songs in.

Tune in to the show and find out how the ecamm skype recording software can automatically aid you in saving tons of interview files which you might later need for record management and information retrieval.

The show also features songs from 2 of my previous guests Zelda Dashiell and Peter Lewy who were the first artists to send me the files I requested for the Here to Share and Care music video project. And if you too, want to be a part of the project, feel free to email me your file at: james@jamesoconooragency.com

Remember we all need God’s help, and each other now more than ever. With the pandemic hitting all regions globally, do whatever you can to help those that are in need of your help.

Timestamps

(4:58) Holding my interview and song performance over Skype
(10:20) Why.Wav format is better than.Mp3 when presenting your music
(14:23) James Howard’s experience after hosting me
(16:20) Here to Share and Care video project progress
(18:35) Enjoy Cease the Fire by Zelda Dashiell
(28:02) Some other way by Peter Lewy

Selected links and mentions
ecamm call recorder for skype on Mac
WTVC
DE123: Zelda Dashiell | Fight on, Zelda!
DE81: Peter Lewy | The Cellist Singer-Songwriter from NYC
Peter Lewy
Zelda Dashiell
James Howard

As always, thanks a lot for being a part of the dHarmic evolution podcast, be sure to subscribe to the podcast and connect with us on social media.

Follow our Podcast on Facebook Twitter Instagram 

You can also see the show on The James O’Connor Agency YouTube channel and join our community on dHarmic Evolution Community Facebook Group 

DE265 What Are You Doing At Home?

What Are You Doing At Home? - dHarmic Evolution Podcast
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Welcome back to the show everyone. I hope you’re all managing to handle things in the midst of the current pandemic that’s hit the entire globe.

Today’s show is going to be a little different and special.

I’ll be diving into what I’ve personally been keeping myself busy with, and share with you some tips and strategies on how you too, can cope with the strange and unknown situation that we’ve all unfortunately found ourselves in.

Since moving from New Jersey to Nashville at the beginning of last August, I’ve really had no time to sit down, relax and enjoy the comfort of my T.V. So with the self-quarantine state of affairs that we’re all in, I decided to make the most of it by finally hanging my big 55” HD Panasonic that was sitting in the basement with a moving blanket covering it.

And because it was the lent season, I also ditched any alcoholic beverages, something that I have been doing for years now. It always surprises me just how easily this falls away as an unnecessary vice and its quickly forgotten about. This made me realize that there’s a lot of habits that become a part of us, habits that we feel we are not only accustomed to but also bonded to as well. But the simple truth is that they really don’t have as much influence over us as we give them the power to do so.

Less Criticism – More Compassion 

Let’s be frank. The entire COVID-19 pandemic caught so many of us unaware and unprepared. Up to date, scientists are still revealing new information about the virus every day! From the way, it spreads to the way it affects and destroys the body of its victim.

Pointing fingers and playing the blame game won’t help solve any problems. We should all be supportive of the great work that the President’s task force has been accomplishing in a quite impossible environment.

Thus, we should be less critical of the efforts put in place by not just our administration, but people everywhere, and we should be more considerate of the less fortunate in society. The ones with nowhere to sleep and no idea what meal they’ll have next.

My Schedule. 

It’s hard to come to terms with the physical reality we’re all witnessing in our cities. Of late, it’s been so strange to be outside. No people, no traffic, and almost all office and commercial buildings, venues, retail, etc,  have been deserted.

One of my personal highlights for spending my weeks was volunteering in downtown Nashville every Sunday morning to feed the hungry some hot steaming breakfast. Due to the current situation though, the entire operation has been put on hold. However, I still am, alongside my fiancée, offering the needed help at the Family Life Centre, for women and children in Nashville.

My weekly duties have now changed to a bit of running as an exercise, shopping for the essentials, volunteering, and an occasional car wash every one in a while.

Stay tuned and find out how I’ve slowly, through the help of my fiancée, been able to substitute my love and craving for Yoga with running. I am actually getting better! and of course, it’s all about the singing!

The Depression Fighters Manual. 

In the show, I also give a quick review of my Depression Fighters Manual and how you can download and utilize it to the fullest during this tough crisis that’s been coupled with worry and anxiety.

Part of what I cover include the  7 best strategies to fight depression, which include;

1. You’ve got to move

2. You’ve got to laugh

3. You’ve got to help somebody

4. You’ve got to be loved

5. You’ve got to eat something wholesome

6. You’ve to go love the drugs – Natural drugs that give you the rush!

7. You’ve got to love nature.

And a bonus strategy of how loving and connecting to God for spiritual nourishment, can cure all your troubles, and most importantly, help you deal with the worries of tomorrow.

I also want to give a special thanks to all of you who took up my request to make a music video featuring past artists that have been on the dHarmic Evolution as part of the Here to Share Challenge, with which we hope to express God’s message that we were all put here to share and care for one another, there are “no stars” in this music video, it’s all about the message!

Timestamps 

00:40 What we’ll be covering on the show today

3:09 Connecting my T.V for the first time in seven months

5:11 How I spend my days

8:02 The great job the President’s task force is doing.

10:32 How everyone else is pulling through

14:06 Working using Zoom

15:40 My depression manual – What’s in it and How you can get it

30:25 The backstory to Here to share and Care project.

34:14 My Guest appearance on ABC and how you can watch it

35:46 Listen to share and care.

Download Depression Fighters Ebook here!

Selected links and mentions 

Dr. Anthony Fauci Scott Geller 
Rev. Dr. Christine Mercy Johnson
Ray Williams  
Jimmy Fallon 
Ellen 
Oprah
JFK 50 Mile
Zoom
Trump’s Task Force Efforts
NASHVILLE RESCUE MISSION – FAMILY LIFE CENTER (FOR WOMEN AND CHILDREN)  

DE157 Ray Williams | From Motown to Soul Town to Nashville! Ray adds a unique flair to her music! 

DE168 Alumni Professor Scott Geller | V Tech University “Ut Prosim” 

DE 237 “How do we get people to believe?” Archbishop Christine Mercy Johnson explains 

As always, thanks a lot for being a part of the dHarmic evolution podcast, be sure to subscribe to the podcast and connect with us on social media.

Follow our Podcast on Facebook Twitter Instagram

You can also see the show on The James O’Connor Agency YouTube channel and join our community on dHarmic Evolution Community Facebook Group 

DE264 Azalea, Australia & Canada combine beauty and Art, then steal your heart!

Azalea, Australia & Canada combine beauty and Art, then steal your heart! - dHarmic Evolution Podcast
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“Azalea” is the musical duo of Benjamin and Mia Hackett, they are an Australian-Canadian couple that write, produce, and perform original music together.

Before they met, Benjamin and Mia both worked on their own solo music projects, but for some reason, it always felt to them that a key ingredient was lacking in their art. Having fatefully met in 2004, the duo worked on their first songwriting project together, and the magic they created from their chemistry was undeniably great. It was then that they discovered that the secret ingredient lacking in their pieces, was each other.

16 years down the line and the duo has now released 5 studio albums, 1 live album, were named semifinalists at the 2018 International songwriting competition, and have previously been nominated at the 2018 International Acoustic Music Awards.

Show Notes

Joining us on the show today is the dynamic music duo of Benjamin and Mia, otherwise known as Azalea.

Having been performing on cruise ships for the past one and a half years, we start the show off with the duo narrating their dramatic cruise ship experience courtesy of the COVID-19 pandemic.

From being stuck at the dock for 12 days in a ship with no passengers to hopping from ship to ship until they finally booked their own plane ticket back home. Benjamin and Mia have had a challenging first-hand experience with the effect of the current global pandemic.

Now with a day left until their 14-day social quarantine is over, the couple can’t wait to go outside and do some grocery shopping!

As they’re a fairly introverted couple, when not on stage or creating new music, Benjamin and Mia are very close friends and enjoy being with their pets and their comfy home in Canada.

Stay tuned as the lovely duo gives us a tour of what it’s like to be performers in a cruise ship. Despite their introverted nature, Benjamin and Mia enjoy socializing with their fans before and after their performances. This, they claim, is a great way to have an intimate connection with your audience and get their personal thoughts and opinions on how they feel about your music and performance.

They’ve enjoyed every single cruise trip and performance as this has enabled them to meet different people, cultures, and lifestyles worldwide. Something that would have otherwise been impossible to afford without their gigs. The Cruise ship contracts have also proven invaluable in terms of steady, reliable work and ample free time to work on their music writing project’s on the side.

And even with the current global crisis still heating up as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, this lovely couple has chosen to see the positive side of it, and thank God for the ample time that they now have to tackle their art and life projects that they’ve been postponing for a while.

I hope you all enjoy the show and feel empowered by the message of hope and creativity that Azalea shares with all on the show today.

Quotes

It grows you, in such a big way, I can’t even remember the person I was before I started the journey. – Mia on her experience performing in cruise ships.

It’s a very intimate relationship between you and the people you’re performing for in a cruise ship. Consorting and getting to know them at a personal level, and what they love about your show. It’s like free market research.

Socializing with your audience is a great way to know what people connect within your songs and performances. This helps in improving your performance and music in general.

We’ve seen so many different cultures, lifestyles and ways of life. This has made us realize how we’re all so different, but still essentially the same. It’s practically a great way to make the world smaller and make it feel like home.

We take different approaches in terms of the tools and environment in order to experiment with how the general audience feels and how emotions would change when producing our songs. There’s a lot of challenges to it, but it’s generally a good experience.

We’re basking in the fact that we now have time to tackle the creative endeavors that we’ve always wanted to pursue – Benjamin on using the current COVID-19 social quarantine measure to their advantage.

We still have milestones that we need to hit. And we feel that we’ll get there eventually. We just have to keep writing, keep playing and keep being our genuine selves. We hope to create art that’s meaningful to us. Because if it means something to you, then it’s going to mean something to everyone else – Benjamin on their future art and music projects.

If you work too much, you kind of lose your touch with creativity. Creativity comes from play.

Timestamps

Azalea’s experience and joy performing cruise ship gigs (7:08)

Listen to ‘Your Lullaby’ by Azalea (10:02)

How they met and the undeniable chemistry that kept them together (14:25)

Benjamin and Mia’s previous gigs before they started performing on cruise ships. (17:45)

Listen to ‘Dusty Motel’ (21:03)

Azalea’s process of creating and producing different songs. (25:21)

How they’ve been affected by the virus (29:44)
Listen to “The Masquerade” (32:55)

House Concerts and Lives streaming, Azalea’s plans for the near future (41:20)

Benjamin gives us a view of the story behind the song ‘Butterflies and Alchemists’ (43:03)

Listen to ‘Butterflies and Alchemists’ (44:44)

How they got their band name ‘Azalea’ (51:24)

Benjamin and Mia’s message to you (56:34)

Connect with Azalea

Website:
www.azaleamusic.net
Facebook:
@AzaleaMusic.net
Twitter:
@AzaleaMusic
Instagram:
@azaleamusic
YouTube:
www.youtube.com/user/AzaleaTV/featured
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/album/1dDVpHA12UrdADS32m3weI
Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/ke/artist/azalea/1311120597

As always, thanks a lot for being a part of the dHarmic evolution podcast, be sure to subscribe to the podcast and connect with us on social media.

Follow our Podcast  on Facebook Twitter Instagram 

You can also see the show on The James O’Connor Agency YouTube channel and join our community on dHarmic Evolution Community Facebook Group 

DE263 Winston Justice, NFL, Wealth Management, Leadership through Service, “the Blueprint”

Winston Justice, NFL, Wealth Management, Leadership through Service, “the Blueprint”
Apple Podcast
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Winston Justice is a former NFL offensive lineman who from 2006 – 2014 played with the Philadelphia Eagles, Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos.

Born and raised in Southern California, Winston’s skill, hard work, and passion for Football landed him a spot on the University of Southern California football team where he went on to win a national championship in 2003.

Having graduated from the University of Southern California with an undergraduate degree in Public Policy, Winston is currently a Vice President at the Nashville headquarters of Bernstein – a wealth management company that manages over a hundred billion USD for its client’s –

Winston is leaving footprints in the finance world through his dedication and life philosophy of leadership through service. At Bernstein, Winston works as an asset manager to multigenerational families, entrepreneurs, and nonprofits.

Winston has been the recipient of numerous decorations and awards including the Walter Payton Philadelphia Man of the Year award in 2010. Winston relocated to Nashville in 2010 with his wife and their 3 children.

Show Notes

I hope you’re all excited for today’s episode, as we’re being joined for the first time ever, with a former NFL star, Winston Justice.

Winston has had an exciting and diverse career in the sport, corporate and entrepreneurial world. On today’s show, our guest Winston will be shedding light on some of the knowledge, pitfalls, and emotions involved in these industries.

Get to find out how Winston was nominated for and helped in solving the 2008 NFL lockout and how this event shaped his passion and future career in wealth management.
With an insider look at wealth management, Winston offers us the blueprint that goes into financial management for different groups, ranging from athletes, NGOs, entrepreneurs, and other interested parties.

There’s no doubt that hard work, passion, and commitment, is what football players and other athletes dedicate to their careers. But despite it all, a lot of failures and disappointments are experienced in this industry. From financial nosedives, short-lived careers, and bad advice, Winston explains to us the various challenges -mentally, emotionally, financially and physically- that athletes have to fight through every day, and why, in spite of landing lucrative deals and lifestyles, some athletes end up with almost nothing to show for at the end of their careers.

We also cover Winston’s personal experience working as an NFL player and how having a supportive wife and team staff was the cornerstone of his success in football and in life.

Having learned a lot from football. Winston has applied some of this knowledge in his other endeavors, such as the coffee shop he started with his brother in law and wealth management for his clients.

With so much discipline and passion for helping people and learning new things, Winston enjoys every bit of work put into the process of helping companies and individuals in managing their wealth and portfolio, something he describes as the beauty of building a legacy through finance.

Quotes

Unlike a business owner that sells his company, when a player gets drafted and then gets a new contract, everyone knows it. And on top of that, you’re mostly surrounded by people very different from you, who are genuinely not the best type of people. Half the battle is surrounding yourself with the right type of people.
Unlike in other professions, failures that athletes encounter financially are magnified by the media.

You think about it the first time you put on your pads. It’s so finite. You know that any play could be your last play, and it’s all very scary too. It’s almost like asking a doctor, ‘What are you going to do if you’re not a doctor?’ – Winston on football players thinking of another career.

As men, we find our identity in what we do.

Throughout any career, there’s going to be some really extreme highs, and lows as well.

Through playing football, you learn a lot of life attributes. Like I remember my coach telling me there are no mistakes, only opportunities to get better. And I applied it to every aspect of my life.

You never know when the best time is to pursue a different career or path in life. But you don’t want to look back and have any regrets, as well. You should give your all to the present moment, and even if that moment is coming to an end, you should enjoy it to the fullest – Winston’s advice to athletes.

Everything starts with a conversation – Winston on new business partnerships.

Be present. Don’t get caught up in the panic selling. – Winston’s advice on the market’s and current COVID-19 pandemic.

Timestamps

Winston’s role in finding a resolution for the 2008 lockout (03:04)
Discussing the financial failures of athletes (07:23)
When do football players start to think and plan for life after football? (08:58)
Transitioning dreams from basketball to football (10:41)
Winston’s experience changing NFL teams (12:44)
How Winston is weathering the current COVID-19 Storm (16:23)
Stepping into the entrepreneurial and financial world of Coffee business and Wealth management (21:24)
Moving and settling into Nashville (32:09)
Learning about life through football (35:39)

Selected Links and Mentions

Pete Caroll
Elixr Coffee
Walter Payton Man of the Year Award
Bernstein
NFL Lockout – ESPN.com
Redefining the Scholar-Athlete – Frontiersin.org
About Private Wealth Management – Investopia.com
Life After the NFL: Planning Post-Football Careers – Lastwordonfootball.com

DE262 Bill Cakmis, Host Whisperer, Inspiring, Creative, Talented, saving your show!

Bill Cakmis, Host Whisperer, Inspiring, Creative, Talented, saving your show! - dHarmic Evolution Podcast
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Overcast - dHarmic Evolution Podcast

No matter the platform, event, theme or target, you can count on Bill Cakmis to be a part of its inception and success.

As for a performance coach, talent coach, acting coach, and motivational speaker. Bill has for more than 3 decades now, been the cornerstone behind the successful teaching and mentoring of singers, actors, anchors, talk show hosts, politicians, doctors, lawyers, CEOs, and athletes. And as a show of the touch of expertise, excellence, and quality in his field of operation, some of Bill’s clients have gone ahead and won prestigious awards including Grammy, Oscar, Tony, and Emmy awards.

Having collaborated with top film studios, production companies and TV stations in the creation of fun, creative and engaging content, Bill’s full resume is a thing of beauty.

Also an actor, writer, director, and motivational speaker, Bill is blessed to have worked and played with some of the most talented and entertaining people in the world.

Show Notes

If you’ve ever had (or are still) struggling on how you can present yourself or your ideas in front of a crowd, panel, or any kind of audience, then you’re definitely going to enjoy today’s show.

Thanks to our guest today, Bill Cakmis, we’ll be focusing on communication and how you can make use of special tips and insights from Bill’s experience helping the diverse pool of raw talent that he’s coached.

Bill sets an engaging conversation by reminiscing on his role helping the producers and directors of “American Girl” solve their host problem.

After being called in at the last minute to save the situation, Bill was not only successful in saving the day, but also earned himself the nickname “Host Whisperer” for his admirable efforts in the fruitful turnout of the project.

Stay tuned to get more acquainted on how to improve your communication and performance stats with captivating stories on how Bill has managed to handle different chaotic situations in diverse environments into a complete success.

Also, find out why your audience is a key factor that shapes the tone and theme of your speech and how you too can adapt your performance in relation to this.

Bill also gives us insights into his book Loyalty, Trust & Success: Transforming Anchors, Reporters & Weathercasters Into Superstars and what you can expect to gain from the book.

Quotes

The difference between a songwriter and a star is that a songwriter plays the song while a star plays the audience.
Just because you’re famous doesn’t mean you can host a show. There’s a skill set, learning how to read a prompt or how to deal with guests among other trainable skills.

You change who you are depending on who you’re talking to, in order to survive in that situation.

I’m not there because I’m the show or I’m the production company. I have one job. To make you win. If you win, if you succeed, my ex-wives eat. My ex-wives are very hungry women. So it’s important to me that I make everybody I work with success.

There’s a big difference between having a sense of humor and beginning with a joke. And a lot of people are told to first begin with a joke – ‘Hey, get them smiling, get them laughing’ – And it’s the worst thing you can do.

It’s not about you. It’s never about you. Every great storyteller knows that every story they tell is about one thing- the person they’re talking to – It’s about getting that person to react and you’re going to change how you tell that story depending on who you’re talking to.

From my experience working for over 3 decades, I have formulated tools and techniques for people to create a certain kind of loyalty and trust with their audience when they’re on the stage. Loyalty with their viewers, and through that, create success.

There’s a big difference between having a sense of humor and beginning with a joke. And a lot of people are told to first begin with a joke – ‘Hey, get them smiling, get them laughing’ – And it’s the worst thing you can do.

It’s not about you. It’s never about you. Every great storyteller knows that every story they tell is about one thing- the person they’re talking to – It’s about getting that person to react and you’re going to change how you tell that story depending on who you’re talking to.

From my experience working for over 3 decades, I have formulated tools and techniques for people to create a certain kind of loyalty and trust with their audience when they’re on the stage. Loyalty with their viewers, and through that, create success.
There is no failure for people who are successful. There are just learning experiences.

Timestamps

How Bill got the nickname ‘Host Whisperer’ (04:35)
Bill’s experience solving complex show problems (11:09)
How Bill helps managers in the identification, acquisition, and training of new talent (20:06)
Top mistakes that beginners make when attempting their first speech (23:01)
Stand up comedians, impromptu speakers, and improvisanalists – How they all prepare (24:20)
Helping artists with PR and Stage presence (25:43)
How great speakers improvise according to the audience (28:54)
Why Bill enjoys working with athletes the most (34:34)

Mentions

Nigel Lythgoe
Dick Clark
Kenny Norton
Joe Schmoe – Meaning
American Girl Show

Connect with Bill Cakmis

Website

www.cakmis.com

Facebook

@cakmis

Twitter

@cakmis

Instagram

@cakmis

Linkedin

www.linkedin.com/in/billcakmis

YouTube

www.youtube.com/user/BillCakmis/videos

Amazon

www.amazon.com/Loyalty-Trust-Success-Transforming-Weathercasters

As always, thanks a lot for being a part of the dHarmic evolution podcast, be sure to subscribe to the podcast and connect with us on social media.

Follow our Podcast  on Facebook Twitter Instagram 

You can also see the show on The James O’Connor Agency YouTube channel and join our community on dHarmic Evolution Community Facebook Group 

DE261 Crowdsourcing a cure for Covid 19, there is good news ahead!

Crowdsourcing a cure for Covid 19, there is good news ahead!- dHarmic Evolution Podcast
Apple Podcast
Overcast - dHarmic Evolution Podcast

I remember while I was still very young – and before I owned my first business – putting in the 8-5 working for other people.

And every time, I couldn’t help but think to myself how great it would be to spend the 8 hours working for myself and building my own business.

Well folks, now’s your time to do the same. You can build whatever you want, whatever you’ve always wished for, you have no excuses, nothing holding you back. So take advantage of the current situation as an opportunity to grow and build yourself.

Show Notes

Amidst the current storm, we’re in, amidst the negative and depressing updates all over mainstream and social media, today’s show is a message about hope and optimism that tomorrow will be better than today.

In today’s show, Jeff Brown, a brilliant investor, and editor in numerous publications will be my main source of reference in regards to his reports on the Covid-19 outbreak and how we’re slowly, but certainly improving, learning and growing from this situation.

And thus, despite the constant call for alarm and panic from the ratings and numbers obsessed media, here are some of the top indications that we’re day by day recovering from the Covid 19 pandemic;

New confirmed cases have completely leveled off in China. There are just a handful of new cases each day. (Social distancing helps stop the spread of the virus, so please, for all the people out there partying, tempting fate, you’re putting yourself and other families in grave danger)

Warmer, more humid weather slows down the spread of Covid 19 (Just like past airborne viruses, this means that cases in the Northern hemisphere will dramatically fall as we enter spring humidity and early summer)

Electronic supply chain manufacturers in China are on a track to return to full production by the end of this month (March of 2020), shipment, transportation to airports and seaport logistics is almost back to normal.

A Chinese biotechnology company has already shown early success with the combination of its hepatitis C and HIV treatment for Covid 19. Early data from a clinical trial on 11 patients demonstrated all 11 patients have recovered and been discharged from the hospital.

Also, get to find out why the current situation has exposed our weaknesses and vulnerabilities in self-reliance. As predicted by Ross Perot, all our products, ranging from surgical masks, gowns, electronics, labor, resources, etc are outsourced and (or) manufactured and shipped from China.

Crowdsourcing the Covid 19 Cure using a Video game

Folded is an online video game that started as a research project at the University of Washington’s center for game science and the department of biochemistry. Players try to fold proteins into shapes that are stable and functional.

Different individuals have different ways to process and understand information. What’s easy for you to understand in a classroom may be impossible for someone else to understand. Likewise, I could easily dissect and process information from a game as compared to other classrooms and book talented individuals. And that’s why we need all hands on deck to help solve the Covid 19 pandemic.

Alexa trying to become a doctor?

The current situation is also acting as a catalyst towards Amazon trying to produce small connected devices that could run various tests like taking our temperature or even analyzing our blood.
Alexa will then analyze results, send them back to the cloud, and then make a diagnosis from there. After it’s a diagnosis, Alexa will order prescription medicine for you and have it delivered on your doorstep within hours and perform a follow up within a few days.

In conclusion, try to steer away from all the negativity and hype the media is trying to spread just for views and sensationalism. You know what they say, attention pays.

Let’s all pray and turn to God in these tough times for protection and guidance in these dark and difficult times (and not just because of the pandemic, but because we need Him every day of our lives)

Stay safe and stay full of hope and happiness.

Selected articles

The ‘giant sucking sound’ of NAFTA: Ross Perot was ridiculed as alarmist in 1992 but his warning turned out to be spot on.

Ted Talk Video: The next outbreak? We’re not ready | Bill Gates

Tech giants are getting creative to manage the COVID-19 crisis: New trials, new websites, new employees: Google, Amazon, and others are finding new ways to help

Timestamps

Bill Gates Ted Talk that predicted our current pandemic (4:02)
Jeff Brown’s publications and message of hope (05:05)
Google’s on deck too! (06:11)
Ross Perot arguments, and how it’s playing out today (08:39)
America. Are we really independent? (10:09)
Take financial advantage of the state we’re in (12:02)
Sensationalism sells. Stay off the media (13:14)
“Crowdsourcing” everyone’s help to find a cure. (13:33)

Special thanks to Jeff Brown for his fabulous research in “The Bleeding Edge”

As always, thanks a lot for being a part of the dHarmic evolution podcast, be sure to subscribe to the podcast and connect with us on social media.

Follow our Podcast  on Facebook Twitter Instagram 

You can also see the show on The James O’Connor Agency YouTube channel and join our community on dHarmic Evolution Community Facebook Group 

DE260 Emily Zuzik, a brave rocker releasing her latest “Torch & Trouble”

Emily Zuzik, a brave rocker releasing her latest “Torch & Trouble” - dHarmic Evolution Podcast
Apple Podcast
Overcast - dHarmic Evolution Podcast

Emily Zuzik’s career in the performing arts is a study in diversification.

Her career journey in the music industry has enabled her to develop a unique personality and signature style in her productions and live performances. At varying times, she can call herself a singer, songwriter, guitarist, actress, and model – and she has had success at each of these related-but-distinct pursuits. All of which are thanks to her unparalleled and unique brand of performing.

Emily has released several records of her own music that range in style from a Cheryl Crow-Esque rootsy-rock vibe to a hip-hopping blend of Aimee Mann, Alanis Morissette, and Beck. Her vocals have been heard on NBC, WB Interactive and she has collaborated with Moby and sang with Blue Man Group.

Her soon-to-be-released album, Torch & Trouble, is a well-focused blend of earthy singer-songwriter centered Americana music, a true reflection of her uncommon and exceptional style in the music, and performance industry as a whole.

No matter the art or genre, it’s Emily’s unique personality and voice that brings it all together.

Show Notes

Joining me on the show today is the melodious, mesmerizing and uniquely diverse singer/songwriter, Emily Zuzik.
The LA-based artist graces our show with wonderful tunes and thoughts from her current album “Torch and Trouble”.

Stay tuned on the show and find out more about Emily’s collaborations and personal connections behind the production of “Torch and Trouble”.

Although she currently resides and works from LA, Emily has had the pleasure of traveling and living in plenty of other states throughout the country. We discuss her thoughts and opinions from her experience living in different places and what she feels about Nashville as a growing city and hotspot for the upcoming performing arts.

Emily describes to us why she feels that producing older songs results in more passion and energy output in the studio.

She enjoys working with notable professions while producing her songs and never interferes or in any way gives suggestions to the team when they’re all working on her masterpieces during production. She trusts that every professional has gained their reputation from their previous work and therefore deserve to be 100% reliable on their output.

Strap up your seatbelts, because you’re in for a fabulous ride from Emily’s world of the diverse and unique blend of music production, songwriting, and band performance.

Quotes

What I have found over the years is that lots of people can write songwriter folk and upbeat daddies, but not everybody does it with a hard-rocking component. So I really consider myself lucky to be able to wear both of these hats.

There’s something really fun about writing a song and then going into the studio the next day and cutting it. And there’s energy in that too. But if you want a more polished thing, then it’s helpful to really have old songs from the past down. Just as I did with “Torch and Trouble”.

There’s always uncertainty in music, and right now, there’s the coronavirus and the upcoming American presidential election. There’s just stuff in the world that’s frustrating and can induce anxiety and can make you go dark, and I am trying to put forward light and love and hope. I know there’s a lot of other people who feel that way too. And so hopefully we’ll get a groundswell and some things will be turning around into a more positive direction in 2020.

Timestamps

Find out more about Emily’s upcoming album, “Torch and Trouble” (5:00)
Listen to “Alone” (6:00)

The people that she works with (12:08)
Emily’s performance in New York (13:30)
Her background and experience living in New York (15:36)
Listen to “Winter in California” (19:15)
The story behind the song “How did you get so good?” (28:27)
Listen to “How did you get so good?” (31:20)
Emily’s teamwork experience working with different professionals (40:20)
Listen to “Trouble” (42:01)
Emily’s plan for the year (46:40)

Mentions

Moby
Ted Russell Kamp
Blue Man Group
Tim Lefebvre
Rockwood Music Hall

Station House Studios
DJ Gary Calamar
American fest

Connect with Emily Zuzik

Website
www.emilyzuzik.com
Facebook
@emily.zuzik.music
Twitter
@emilyzuzik
Instagram
@emilyzuzik
Linkedin
@emilyzuzik
YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/c/ezuzik
Soundcloud
https://soundcloud.com/emilyzuzik
Pinterest
https://www.pinterest.com/emilyzuzik/


As always, thanks a lot for being a part of the dHarmic evolution podcast, be sure to subscribe to the podcast and connect with us on social media.

Follow our Podcast  on Facebook Twitter Instagram 

You can also see the show on The James O’Connor Agency YouTube channel and join our community on dHarmic Evolution Community Facebook Group