This week on Bright Brainz, I sit down with Kelly Catlin, author of "Kurt Cobain: Forever in Bloom". The book, released on what would have been Cobain’s 58th birthday, offers a humanizing look at the Nirvana frontman—far beyond the usual “tortured artist” narrative.

Kelly draws on intimate interviews and untold stories to paint a fuller picture of Cobain as a father, friend, and artist who stood for more than just grunge. We talk about Cobain’s values, his fight for justice and equality, and the cultural legacy he left behind.

This conversation challenges the myth, respects the man, and reframes how we think about one of the most iconic musicians of the last century.

Kelly Catlin can be found @ Home | Kelly Catlin Author

Intro and outro music made by Cassidine productions @ https://youtube.com/channel/UCPFmkKF_Kj1qebtArO3azLw?si=4XCSKHTTKAKxWML7

In this eye-opening episode, Isaac welcomes back Jeremy Duffy, a 16-year veteran of the NSA, for a deep dive into LifeSec—a real-world approach to staying safe online in an age where digital threats are everywhere. Drawing from his extensive background in operational security, Jeremy breaks down how everyday internet users can protect themselves against growing cyber dangers in an increasingly unstable political climate.

From the chilling rise of sophisticated hackers to the hidden risks of using platforms like Google Chrome, this episode uncovers the unseen battlefield of the web. Jeremy also shares essential tips on safeguarding children’s digital lives, the truth about antivirus software, and the real-world consequences of data leaks—even those involving classified information. If you think you’re safe online, think again. This conversation might just change the way you use the internet forever.

Check out our sponsor Bad Product @ Badproduct.co and use coupon code vagabard for a discount.

Jeremy Duffy can be found online @ www.thegeekprofessor.com and his Kickstarter for his book  

Intro and outro music made by Cassidine productions @ https://youtube.com/channel/UCPFmkKF_Kj1qebtArO3azLw?si=4XCSKHTTKAKxWML7

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Is Bigfoot real — or something far stranger?

In this thrilling episode, Isaac sits down with author Ty Alexander to dive deep into the mysterious world of cryptids, sparked by Ty’s gripping new novel Monstrous, which follows an escaped Yeti terrorizing Red Oak National Park. From Bigfoot and the Mothman to the Yeti itself, they explore chilling sightings, folklore roots, and mind-bending theories — including interdimensional travel and DNA evidence that might rewrite what we think we know. The conversation doesn’t stop at cryptids; they also venture into UFO encounters, alien connections, and Ty’s upcoming series that blends thrilling fiction with the world’s strangest legends. Plus: can’t-miss recommendations for the best Bigfoot-inspired media.

Ty Alexander can be found @ Discover Horror Fiction by Ty Alexander | Monstrous | Ty Alexander (tyalexanderwrites.com)

Check out our sponsor Bad Product @ Badproduct.co and use coupon code vagabard for a discount.

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Recorded last year before the TikTok ban but more relevant than ever—this electrifying conversation dives deep into the digital battleground that is social media regulation. Isaac and cohost Verum Visand sit down with cultural commentator and social media strategist Quinn Que to unpack the political, cultural, and economic forces driving the U.S. crackdown on TikTok.

Was the ban truly about national security—or something else entirely? What does this mean for digital creators, online freedom, and the future of foreign tech in America? Quinn brings sharp insight and behind-the-scenes industry knowledge to this fast-paced discussion that uncovers the real implications of government control over the apps that shape our lives.

Whether you’re a content creator, policy junkie, or someone who just scrolls until 2am, this is a must-listen episode that reveals how close we all are to losing the platforms we take for granted.

Check out our sponsor Bad Product @ Badproduct.co and use coupon code vagabard for a discount.

Verum can be found on Facebook under his name Verum Visand and on his Facebook group Vagabard.

Quinn Que can be found on X @Edokwin and on Substack @ edokwin.substack.com 

Intro and outro music made by Cassidine productions @ https://youtube.com/channel/UCPFmkKF_Kj1qebtArO3azLw?si=4XCSKHTTKAKxWML7

Do you have a story to tell? Are you an expert in a particular field? Concerned about a particular issue? Then come on Bright Brainz and talk about it. Email me at [email protected] for more info, and advertisement opportunities.

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In this gripping episode of Bright Brainz, we dive into the world of digital sleuthing with Cricket, an open source intelligence (OSINT) powerhouse who cracked a 25-year-old family mystery wide open.

Cricket takes us on an emotional and electrifying journey as she recounts how she used nothing but public records, digital breadcrumbs, and sheer determination to find her brother after decades of silence. Along the way, she unpacks the powerful OSINT tools and tactics that fueled her investigation, revealing just how much information is hiding in plain sight.

But it’s not all data dumps and deep dives—Cricket opens up about the emotional toll of her search, the mental resilience required for this kind of work, and why protecting your mind is just as crucial as protecting your privacy.

As the conversation unfolds, she shares eye-opening stories of social engineering, digital footprints, and the realities of online privacy in today’s world. We wrap up with a look at her current mission: helping others navigate the chaos of missing persons cases through her company, Petrichor Intelligence, and building a supportive, ethical OSINT community.

This episode is part masterclass, part thriller, and all heart. Don’t miss it.

Cricket can be reached @ [email protected]

Check out our sponsor Bad Product @ Badproduct.co and use coupon code vagabard for a discount.

Intro and outro music made by Cassidine productions @ https://youtube.com/channel/UCPFmkKF_Kj1qebtArO3azLw?si=4XCSKHTTKAKxWML7

Do you have a story to tell? Are you an expert in a particular field? Concerned about a particular issue? Then come on Bright Brainz and talk about it. Email me at [email protected] for more info, and advertisement opportunities.

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In this powerful follow-up conversation, Isaac reconnects with Jose (Ep. #55), a former undocumented immigrant who became a U.S. citizen through military service. Together, they dive deep into the heated debate surrounding immigration in America today. Jose shares raw and personal insights from his own journey, shedding light on the struggles undocumented immigrants face, the real impact of policy shifts, and how the current administration is shaping the future of immigration.

Beyond politics, this episode is about humanity—exploring the rights of undocumented individuals, the fight for a fairer system, and why awareness is key to creating real change. Whether you’re passionate about immigration reform or just want to hear an eye-opening story, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

Jose has a podcast called "The ESL Sessions Podcast" check it out on Spotify and YouTube @ https://youtube.com/@ie.production_s?si=vaw3xSKmuO9LVwyC

Check out our sponsor Bad Product @ Badproduct.co and use coupon code vagabard for a discount.

Intro and outro music made by Cassidine productions @ https://youtube.com/channel/UCPFmkKF_Kj1qebtArO3azLw?si=4XCSKHTTKAKxWML7

In this gripping episode, Isaac sits down with former NSA employee Jeremy Duffy to uncover the truth about life inside one of the world’s most secretive agencies. Jeremy shares his remarkable journey—from working dead-end jobs to landing a role at the NSA through a federally funded program—where he taught Operations Security and witnessed firsthand how intelligence agencies operate. Together, they dive into the agency’s culture, leadership flaws, and its external focus on foreign threats. But that’s just the beginning.

The conversation takes a sharp turn into the dangers of AI, corporate accountability, and the hidden risks of sharing personal information online. Jeremy sounds the alarm on workplace surveillance, data privacy, and why self-advocacy is more critical than ever in a digital world. As he reveals insights from his book on leadership and listening, the discussion raises one crucial question: Who’s really in control?

If you value your privacy, question authority, or just love a good behind-the-scenes look at government operations, this is an episode you can’t afford to miss!

Check out our sponsor Bad Product @ Badproduct.co and use coupon code vagabard for a discount.

Jeremy Duffy can be found online @ The Geek ProfessorBlog - The Geek Professor and his Kickstarter for his book @ Are You Listening? by Jeremy — Kickstarter

Intro and outro music made by Cassidine productions @ https://youtube.com/channel/UCPFmkKF_Kj1qebtArO3azLw?si=4XCSKHTTKAKxWML7

Do you have a story to tell? Are you an expert in a particular field? Concerned about a particular issue? Then come on Bright Brainz and talk about it. Email me at [email protected] for more info, and advertisement opportunities.

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On this episode of Bright Brainz, Isaac sits back down with Paranoid American for a mind-bending deep dive into the shadowy intersections of DARPA, military technology, and pop culture. Could global superstars like Taylor Swift be strategically used to influence the masses? Is AI-generated content already being weaponized for psychological warfare?

The conversation ventures into the murky world of conspiracy theories, questioning everything from the authenticity of the moon landing to the unseen forces shaping public perception. As they unravel the potential misuse of cutting-edge technology and the true power of celebrity influence, one question looms large—how much of what we believe is real, and how much is just part of the program?

This episode was recorded last year.

You may remember Paranoid American from episode #45 which can only be found on podbean 

A documentary that Paranoid American made about a*****chrome can be found here: Adrenochrome, Freemasonry and MKultra (rumble.com)

Paranoid American can be found on Rumble here: ParanoidAmerican (rumble.com)

And at his website @ Paranoid American | Conspiracy Comics, Occult Zines & Parody Stickers

Check out our sponsor Bad Product @ Badproduct.co and use coupon code vagabard for a discount.

Intro and outro music made by Cassidine productions @ https://youtube.com/channel/UCPFmkKF_Kj1qebtArO3azLw?si=4XCSKHTTKAKxWML7

Do you have a story to tell? Are you an expert in a particular field? Concerned about a particular issue? Then come on Bright Brainz and talk about it. Email me at [email protected] for more info, and advertisement opportunities.

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In this episode of Bright Brainz, Isaac sits down with life coach Paloma Chiara to dive into the power of mindset and how self-limiting beliefs can keep us from reaching our full potential. We explore practical strategies for breaking free from these mental barriers—whether through brainstorming, meditation, journaling, or powerful affirmations. Paloma also opens up about her own journey as a life coach, offering insight into how to find the right coach and take real steps toward personal growth. If you’ve ever felt stuck or doubted your own abilities, this conversation is for you!

You can find Paloma Chiara @ palomachiara.com 

Check out our sponsor Bad Product @ Badproduct.co and use coupon code vagabard for a discount.

Intro and outro music made by Cassidine productions @ https://youtube.com/channel/UCPFmkKF_Kj1qebtArO3azLw?si=4XCSKHTTKAKxWML7

Isaac sat down with Skye Hawthorne, host of The podcast “Drug Cultures”, for a deep dive into the complex world of psychoactive substances. They explored the historical and cultural significance of psychedelics, debated their potential benefits and risks, and examined how substances like alcohol have shaped societies throughout history. The conversation also tackled modern drug policies, the surprising discoveries made during drug research, and even the secret drug habits of historical figures. Wrapping up, they discussed the crucial question: how should we teach kids about drugs in an honest, responsible way?

Check out our sponsor Bad Product @ Badproduct.co and use coupon code vagabard for a discount.

Intro and outro music made by Cassidine productions @ https://youtube.com/channel/UCPFmkKF_Kj1qebtArO3azLw?si=4XCSKHTTKAKxWML7

Do you have a story to tell? Are you an expert in a particular field? Concerned about a particular issue? Then come on Bright Brainz and talk about it. Email me at [email protected] for more info, and advertisement opportunities.

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