What does it take to forge a multi-decade career in the trenches of independent cinema? In this episode of The LilyList Podcast, host Curt Meinhold sits down with legendary cult filmmaker, writer, and editor Ted Nicolaou. From his early days at the hippie mecca of UT Austin alongside legendary cinematographer Daniel Pearl , to working as the sound man on the original The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Ted’s journey through Hollywood is nothing short of cinematic lore.

Ted pulls back the curtain on some of the wildest sets in film history. Hear the jaw-dropping story of his time editing and recording sound on Roar - frequently cited as one of the most dangerous movies ever made - where he had to navigate a set with 100 untrained lions armed with nothing but a walking cane.

We also dive deep into his long-standing collaboration with B-movie impresario Charles Band , the creation of the vibrant 1980s sci-fi comedy Terrorvision , and the secrets behind the remarkable aesthetic consistency of the iconic, sprawling Subspecies vampire franchise. Whether you are a die-hard horror fanatic, an aspiring indie filmmaker, or a lover of pure, human-driven storytelling, this masterclass in creative resilience is an episode you cannot afford to miss.

Highlights:

The Austin Film Explosion: How a pivot away from psychiatry led Ted to UT Austin's film department, where he and classmate Daniel Pearl instantly bonded over their shared "tribe" aesthetic and jumped straight into The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.

Surviving the Set of Roar: A terrifying and hilarious look inside the Soledad Canyon compound, where untrained apex predators ran amok on the crew side of the fence.

The Magic of Subspecies: The logistical triumphs of filming a low-budget gothic masterpiece in a grim, post-Ceaușescu Romania, and how a dedicated cast and crew kept the franchise stunningly consistent across multiple decades.

The Disney & Salvador Dalí Connection: Ted discusses his 20-year chapter directing documentaries for Disney and the incredible honor of curating a massive exhibition detailing the real-life friendship between Walt Disney and surrealist master Salvador Dalí.

A Genetic Thread of Creativity: A look at how the creative impulse weaves through the Nicolaou family tree, spanning from his grandfather's mythological screenplays to his son's success in the globally touring band, Drab Majesty.

As always, visit lilylist.com for more information on the podcast and platform. You can also contact us from the website, if you have questions or ideas for people or topics you’d like to see us cover in the future.

If you’d like to support the work of LilyList, you can donate using the links in the description and if you find these conversations meaningful, we thank you for liking, following, sharing, or subscribing wherever you listen.

If you would like to support LilyList:

Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/lilylist

Join this episode of the LilyList podcast for a compelling conversation with Nancy Hoffmann, a former Greensboro City Councilwoman and seasoned professional with a career spanning multiple industries. Nancy shares the powerful influences of her childhood in Rock Hill, South Carolina, from her father's political activism as a union organizer, to the impactful introduction to great art and music by her third-grade teacher.

Nancy's career journey is a masterclass in adaptability, moving from teaching English and history in Beaufort, South Carolina - where she befriended author Pat Conroy - to pioneering roles in human resources and marketing in the textile industry, then to Wall Street financial services, and moving again to the home furnishings and furniture business.

She explains her career philosophy isn't a ladder, but a "jungle gym", driven by a constant desire to learn new things and embrace the next opportunity. Learn how her transition from the corporate world to local politics in Greensboro was fueled by a desire to challenge a conservative council, and how her political strategy, including relentless canvassing and a "lucky billboard", led to an enduring elected career. Nancy reflects on the complexities of city governance and the satisfaction of making long-term, ethical decisions for her community, even in the face of political risk.

Here are some highlights from the episode:

* Political Roots & Activism: Discover how Nancy's father, a supermarket manager, inspired her respect for political involvement after losing his job for organizing retail workers for the AFL-CIO.

* The "Jungle Gym" Career: Nancy details her philosophy of a career path that involves lateral steps and learning, moving fluidly from teaching to textiles, finance, and furniture.

* Friendship with a Literary Giant: The story of teaching alongside and receiving mentorship from acclaimed Southern author Pat Conroy at Beaufort High School.

* A Risky Political Stand: Her decision to stick with a controversial rezoning vote for the good of Greensboro, despite warnings that it could cost her reelection, an election she ultimately ran unopposed in.

* Championing Arts & Culture: Nancy discusses her work in creating Creative Greensboro, the Department of Arts and Culture, and advocating for major investments in the Cultural Arts Center, which she views as equally vital as the Science Center.

As always, visit lilylist.com for more information on the podcast and platform. You can also contact us from the website, if you have questions or ideas for people or topics you’d like to see us cover in the future.

If you’d like to support the work of LilyList, you can donate using the links in the description and if you find these conversations meaningful, we thank you for liking, following, sharing, or subscribing wherever you listen.

If you would like to support LilyList:

Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/lilylist

Outro music: Denouement by Sift - https://siftmusic.com

In this powerful and deeply moving episode of the LilyList podcast, we are honored to welcome Joseph Schott, a man who has witnessed over a century of change, challenge, and triumph. Born in 1922, Joe shares an extraordinary life story that spans from the hardships of the Great Depression to his vital work as a Navy radio technician in WWII, a distinguished career at Bell Labs, and a vibrant second act as a celebrated artist. Joe’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, love, and the enduring power of a creative spirit. Prepare to be moved and inspired by a perspective forged over 100 years of a life lived to the fullest.

To learn more about Joe and his work:

Joe describes his Navy deployment crossing the North Atlantic to Scotland including Christmas Day 1942, similar, except for battle, to Tom Hank's recent movie Greyhound:

WABC Radio Sunday night with Joe Piscopo marveling at Joe’s story about Frank Sinatra at his High School Prom:

Joe Schott, 96, visits his Fall 1942 Boot Camp at Great Lakes Naval Base in 2018:

Joe Schott, 97, tubing on Lake George, NY July 2019, with Joel Wright:

Boy Scouts Silver Beaver Award 2-25-19:

* Surviving the Great Depression after losing his father at age eight, and the ingenious ways his incredibly strong mother kept her five children together against all odds.

* His vivid memories of serving in the Navy during WWII, from a snowy troopship crossing the Atlantic while hearing Bing Crosby's "White Christmas," to working as a radio technician in Northern Ireland.

* The pivotal and often surprising moments in his education, including an elementary school teacher's hurtful "beautiful but dumb" comment and a high school teacher's incredible foresight about the future of electronics.

* A love story for the ages: how he spotted his wife, Nancy, across a dance floor and knew instantly they were meant to be, leading to a lifetime of partnership and five children.

* How he rediscovered his passion for painting later in life, developing a unique style that finds beauty and humor in everyday objects and continues to bring him joy and connection today.

As always, visit lilylist.com for more information on the podcast and platform. You can also contact us from the website, if you have questions or ideas for people or topics you’d like to see us cover in the future.

If you’d like to support the work of LilyList, you can donate using the links in the description and if you find these conversations meaningful, we thank you for liking, following, sharing, or subscribing wherever you listen.

If you would like to support LilyList:

Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/lilylist

Outro music: Denouement by Sift - https://siftmusic.com

Welcome to Episode 30 of The Lilly List Podcast! We're honored to feature Sara Ecklein, a professional fiduciary, entrepreneur, and host of the Legacy of Love podcast. Sara joins us for a deeply personal conversation, sharing how her childhood experiences shaped her path to helping others navigate the complexities of life and death planning. From growing up on a half-acre "cow town" in Marin County to facing significant family and financial challenges, Sara's journey is a testament to intentionality and the power of proactive planning. Join us as she discusses the crucial importance of having difficult conversations, the hidden blessings of acknowledging mortality, and why true peace comes from preparing for the unexpected.

To learn more about Sara and her work:

Website: trustandhonor.co

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sara-ecklein

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100067625615341

Instagram: @themindfulfiduciary

The Legacy of Love Podcast: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2378190.rss

Free Workbook: trustandhonor.co/workbook

* The Power of Childhood Trauma and Resilience: Sara openly discusses the profound impact of her family's financial losses and her father's addiction, highlighting how these experiences instilled in her a unique blend of creativity, caution, and a deep understanding of financial trauma.

* A Calling in End-of-Life Care: Discover how a transformative experience witnessing a loved one's final days led Sara to pivot from a culinary career to pursuing hospice nursing, eventually finding her true calling as a professional fiduciary.

* Entrepreneurial Spirit and Overcoming Inherited Patterns: Sara shares her journey of embracing entrepreneurship, acknowledging how her father's "feast and famine" business experiences initially made her resistant to building her own practice until she addressed her own money-related trauma.

* The Essence of Fiduciary Work Beyond Numbers: Learn about the multifaceted role of a professional fiduciary, with Sara emphasizing that the "hard work" lies in managing complex family relationships and navigating difficult conversations, not just finances and paperwork.

* Proactive Planning as an Act of Love: Sara passionately advocates for comprehensive estate planning, not as a burdensome task, but as a profound act of love and intentionality that eases the burden on loved ones and creates a lasting legacy.

As always, visit lilylist.com for more information on the podcast and platform. You can also contact us from the website, if you have questions or ideas for people or topics you’d like to see us cover in the future.

If you’d like to support the work of LilyList, you can donate using the links in the description and if you find these conversations meaningful, we thank you for liking, following, sharing, or subscribing wherever you listen.

If you would like to support LilyList:

Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/lilylist

Outro music: Denouement by Sift - https://siftmusic.com

Welcome to episode 29 of the lilylist podcast! Today, we're joined by the insightful and dynamic Mary Wessling. In this engaging conversation, Mary takes us on a journey through her life, from her upbringing in a large Irish Catholic family in Cleveland to her impactful work in journalism and social advocacy. Get ready to hear about her early experiences shaping her empathetic and outspoken nature, the pivotal moments that defined her career and personal life, and her ongoing passion for connecting with people and making a difference.

Here are some highlights from this episode:

* Early Life and Family Dynamics: Mary discusses being the fifth of six children and how that influenced her, leading to a sense of independence and a tendency to challenge norms, even when it caused friction with her mother. She also shares the profound impact of her Irish Catholic grandmother.

* Discovering Her Voice and Path to Journalism: A key realization during her first week at Marquette University was the freedom to express her opinions without negative repercussions, a stark contrast to her earlier schooling. This, along with early encouragement from her father for her writing, guided her towards a career in journalism.

* Career Beginnings and a Notable Scoop: Mary recounts her early journalism career, including a memorable moment while working for the Catholic News Service where she broke the story of John Wayne's deathbed conversion to Catholicism, beating national news services.

* Balancing Work, Family, and Evolving Faith: Mary shares her experiences as a working mother, including bringing her son to work at the Catholic newspaper, and how she managed a freelance writing career while raising her children. She also candidly discusses her evolving relationship with the Catholic Church, culminating in her decision to leave due to the handling of the priest scandal.

* Lifelong Commitment to Social Impact and Human Connection: The episode highlights Mary's continuous involvement in social causes, from helping resettle Afghan refugees to visiting detained immigrants. She emphasizes the importance of meeting and understanding people from all walks of life and her belief in the power of kindness and patience.

As always, visit lilylist.com for more information on the podcast and platform. You can also contact us from the website, if you have questions or ideas for people or topics you’d like to see us cover in the future.

If you’d like to support the work of LilyList, you can donate using the links in the description and if you find these conversations meaningful, we thank you for liking, following, sharing, or subscribing wherever you listen.

If you would like to support LilyList:

Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/lilylist

Outro music: Denouement by Sift - https://siftmusic.com

Welcome to another episode of the LilyList Podcast. In episode 28, we have the pleasure of hosting Rhonda Parker Taylor, a multifaceted individual with a wealth of experiences and insights to share. Rhonda takes us on a journey through her life, from a small-town childhood filled with unique community connections to navigating personal and professional challenges.  

We'll delve into her early experiences, the pivotal moments that shaped her, and the wisdom she's gained along the way. It’s an inspiring conversation about empowerment, the need for human connection, and finding your own path to success.

To learn more about Rhonda and her work ...

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/rhondaparkertaylor/

Website: https://www.rhondaparkertaylor.com

Purchase:

Here are highlights that you can look forward to in this  episode:

1. Rhonda's vivid description of her childhood in a small town and the significance of the community dinner bell.

2. Her insights on navigating social connections and the importance of empathy.

3. The discussion about overcoming academic challenges and the role of mentors and resources.

4. Rhonda's reflections on personal and life failures, and finding strength through helping others.

5. Her journey into entrepreneurship and the lessons learned about building a team and trusting oneself.

As always, visit lilylist.com for more information on the podcast and platform. You can also contact us from the website, if you have questions or ideas for people or topics you’d like to see us cover in the future.

If you’d like to support the work of LilyList, you can donate using the links in the description and if you find these conversations meaningful, we thank you for liking, following, sharing, or subscribing wherever you listen.

If you would like to support LilyList:

Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/lilylist

Outro music: Denouement by Sift - https://siftmusic.com

Welcome to Episode 27 of the LilyList Podcast! Today, we have the incredible Heather Prall joining us - a talented artist whose work speaks to the balance of structure and chaos, much like her life journey. From an early adoption story to a structured upbringing, from a corporate career in HR to taking a leap into a creative life, Heather's path is anything but conventional.

In this episode, Heather shares the pivotal moments that led her to embrace her artistic passion, the deep personal challenges she and her family have faced, and the bold decisions that redefined her life—including selling everything to travel in an RV. We also discuss the importance of legacy, how she’s guiding her daughter toward a life of creativity and independence, and the lessons learned from breaking free of societal expectations.

Get ready for an inspiring conversation about resilience, reinvention, and the power of creativity in shaping our lives.

To learn more about Heather and her work:

Here are some highlights that you can look forward to in this  episode:

1. Adoption and Identity – Heather shares her journey of being adopted as a baby, reconnecting with her birth mother, and navigating questions of nature vs. nurture.

2. Corporate Burnout & Reinvention – After years in HR, Heather realized it wasn’t the path for her. She walked away from a structured corporate career to pursue her passion for art.

3. The Power of Unstructured Living – Twice, Heather and her family sold everything to travel in an RV, embracing a freer way of life while rethinking what success looks like.

4. Art as a Reflection of Life – Her artwork mirrors the contrast between structure and fluidity, much like her personal journey from rigid systems to creative freedom.

5. Legacy & Life Lessons for Her Daughter – Heather is raising her daughter with the belief that success isn’t about conformity—it’s about following passion and embracing life’s possibilities.

As always, visit lilylist.com for more information on the podcast and platform. You can also contact us from the website, if you have questions or ideas for people or topics you’d like to see us cover in the future.

If you’d like to support the work of LilyList, you can donate using the links in the description and if you find these conversations meaningful, we thank you for liking, following, sharing, or subscribing wherever you listen.

If you would like to support LilyList:

Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/lilylist

Outro music: Denouement by Sift - https://siftmusic.com

Welcome to Episode 26 of the LilyList Podcast, where our goal is to be a handbook for the living. In this episode of the LilyList Podcast, we talk with Martin Hensel, an entrepreneur and advisor to LilyList, whose journey spans decades of innovation in digital publishing and technology. From his early days growing up in rural Washington to his experiences in politics, startups, and leadership, Martin shares candid insights about the realities of entrepreneurship, business cycles, and personal growth. We explore his experiences founding and running Texterity, the digital publishing company that helped shape the transition from print to digital, and what he’s learned about navigating the ups and downs of building a business.

Beyond business, Martin reflects on legacy, family, and the long-term impact of our work and choices. Whether you’re a founder, innovator, or just someone interested in the intersection of technology and storytelling, this conversation offers hard-earned wisdom, practical insights, and a refreshingly honest take on the entrepreneurial journey.

This episode is packed with deep reflections on success, failure, and what truly matters beyond business. Tune in for a thoughtful and engaging conversation with Martin Hensel.

Here are some highlights that you can look forward to in this  episode:

1. From Rural Roots to Harvard Business School - How Martin’s small-town upbringing shaped his worldview and led him to unexpected opportunities.

2. Entrepreneurship and Business Lessons - Key takeaways from founding and leading Texterity and other ventures, including navigating investment, scaling, and exit strategies.

3. The Evolution of Digital Publishing - Martin’s perspective on the transformation of content, from print to digital, and how he missed the rise of the web.

4. Balancing Professional and Personal Priorities - How Martin shifted focus later in life to prioritize family, grandchildren, and personal fulfillment.

5. Thoughts on Legacy - Why he prefers looking forward rather than documenting the past, and what he believes truly matters for future generations.

As always, visit lilylist.com for more information on the podcast and platform. You can also contact us from the website, if you have questions or ideas for people or topics you’d like to see us cover in the future.

If you’d like to support the work of LilyList, you can donate using the links in the description and if you find these conversations meaningful, we thank you for liking, following, sharing, or subscribing wherever you listen.

If you would like to support LilyList:

Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/lilylist

Outro music: Denouement by Sift - https://siftmusic.com

Welcome to Episode 25 of the LilyList Podcast, where our goal is to be a handbook for the living. This week, we sit down with Tiffany Speax, a storyteller, creator, and resilient spirit who has worn many hats—filmmaker, educator, mother, and community leader. Tiffany shares an honest and compelling journey through her childhood in North Carolina, her career in TV and film production, the challenges of balancing creative ambitions with family life, and ultimately, finding herself again.

This conversation is filled with raw insights, hard-earned wisdom, and an inspiring perspective on self-discovery and legacy. If you’ve ever struggled with identity, expectations, or the weight of responsibility, this episode is for you.

Here are some highlights that you can look forward to in this  episode:

1. From Small-Town Roots to Big Dreams – Growing up in Kenston and Greensboro, and how her childhood shaped her drive and independence.

2. Navigating Career, Creativity & Family – How she found her passion for film and TV production, while managing the expectations of marriage and motherhood.

3. Breaking Free from Expectations – The realization that trying to "do it all" can lead to burnout and learning to prioritize herself.

4. The Power of Legacy – Teaching her children the importance of integrity, financial literacy, and community impact.

5. What Comes Next? – Looking ahead to life beyond caregiving, embracing new challenges, and rediscovering who she is beyond the roles she has played.

As always, visit lilylist.com for more information on the podcast and platform. You can also contact us from the website, if you have questions or ideas for people or topics you’d like to see us cover in the future.

If you’d like to support the work of LilyList, you can donate using the links in the description and if you find these conversations meaningful, we thank you for liking, following, sharing, or subscribing wherever you listen.

If you would like to support LilyList:

Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/lilylist

Outro music: Denouement by Sift - https://siftmusic.com

This week, we’re thrilled to sit down with Laura Jane Vincent, an accomplished musician, songwriter, and creative force, to dive into the stories that shaped her artistry and the unique journey she's undertaken in the music world. From her early days in rural North Carolina to launching her own record label and mentoring other artists, Laura Jane shares heartfelt insights into the power of music, community, and legacy.

In this episode, we explore how Laura Jane’s upbringing shaped her artistic expression, the lessons she’s learned from touring and managing a music career, and her commitment to fostering a supportive creative ecosystem for musicians. Whether you’re an artist, a fan, or simply someone who appreciates the impact of storytelling, this conversation offers inspiration, laughter, and so much wisdom.

To learn more about Laura Jane and her work:

Here are some highlights that you can look forward to in this  episode:

1. Roots in Rural North Carolina: Laura Jane reflects on her childhood in Hoke County, a place that nurtured her creativity and set the stage for her love of music.

2. Journey into Music: Hear about her first guitar at age 13, early open mic nights, and the influences that shaped her passion for songwriting and performance.

3. Lessons from Touring: Laura Jane discusses the highs and lows of independent touring, from building confidence on stage to learning the importance of connecting with fans.

4. Building a Legacy: Discover how Laura Jane started her record label, Streetplace Records, and why she’s passionate about supporting and uplifting fellow musicians.

5. Reflections on Community: She shares her belief in the importance of collaboration, fostering a vibrant music scene, and how her vision for the future ties into her sense of legacy.

As always, visit lilylist.com for more information on the podcast and platform. You can also contact us from the website, if you have questions or ideas for people or topics you’d like to see us cover in the future.

If you’d like to support the work of LilyList, you can donate using the links in the description and if you find these conversations meaningful, we thank you for liking, following, sharing, or subscribing wherever you listen.

If you would like to support LilyList:

Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/lilylist

Outro music: Denouement by Sift - https://siftmusic.com