Spun Today with Tony Ortiz

Welcome back to another episode of Spun Today. In this episode, I dive into a creative review and breakdown of the film Sinners, written and directed by Ryan Coogler. I pull out writing insights, character craft, and the power of blending personal history with big genre themes—sharing lessons any writer or creative can use to fuel their own work.

But that's just the beginning. I also recount the unforgettable experience of seeing comedian, writer, and director Mo Amer live in New York City, and what it meant to meet a creative whose storytelling is as universal as it is personal.

Plus, I touch on big podcast news, including Marc Maron's announcement that the legendary WTF podcast is coming to an end after over 1600 episodes and 16 years.

Whether you're a writer seeking inspiration, a fan of genre-bending stories, or just someone looking to stay in the loop with creative culture, this episode is for you. So settle in—let's explore the art of storytelling, the magic of live comedy, and the evolving world of podcasts, all through the ever-creative lens of Spun Today.

The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing & Random Rants, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/

Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home

Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe

Links referenced in this episode:

SINNERS BREAKDOWN! Easter Eggs & Details You Missed! https://youtu.be/O80E59y2KOY?si=qcdF_aQbaRNAVYy0

SINNERS Breakdown and Ending Explained! https://youtu.be/9joTyJfKjEU?si=tLAdApNimQxUZflK

Every Sinners Easter Egg EXPLAINED in 6 Minutes! https://youtu.be/2MO08i6sm08?si=s0DcEeqtObT7Q7a4

JAY-Z - 4:44 https://youtu.be/zSkA61esq_c?si=Iztsm9SKpcgdHtwi

Ryan Coogler & Ludwig Göransson | Friends Like These https://youtu.be/Rz3xHhOLK6M?si=7Tr09vS4CWeglMX5

"Sinners": Director Ryan Coogler on His Latest Hit, Delta Blues, His Mississippi Roots & Vampires https://youtu.be/Pjb_eH0C_vQ?si=wJDgMtwybI2hIfrM

Marc Maron is ending WTF:

https://www.theguardian.com/media/2025/jun/03/marc-maron-wtf-podcast-ending-five-best-interviews

https://www.nbcnews.com/pop-culture/pop-culture-news/marc-maron-wtf-podcast-ending-fall-rcna210372

Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN

(Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!)

Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support

Check out my Books

Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories

FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale

Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way

http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback & Hardcover are now available).

Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft. I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/

Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: https://amzn.to/4km592l

Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10

Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, Notebooks, T-Shirts and more: https://spuntoday-shop.fourthwall.com/

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com

Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/

Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk

Listen on: ApplePodcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | YouTube | Website

Welcome to Episode 283 of the Spun Today podcast—the only podcast anchored in writing, but unlimited in scope. I'm your host, Tony Ortiz, and in this deeply personal and heartfelt episode, I invite you to join me as I honor the memory of my dear friend and Spun Today alumni, Pablo Mosquera Jr., who tragically passed away earlier this year.

This episode is a special re-release of one of my favorite beachside conversations with Pablo, originally recorded on a traditional day off in Coney Island—a ritual we created to escape the grind, share stories, and reflect on life while soaking up the summer sun. It's an episode filled with laughter, nostalgia, and the kind of meaningful storytelling that makes the Spun Today podcast what it is.

Throughout this episode, I touch on everything from cherished friendship catchphrases and cycling marathons, to our first jobs and the profound impact travel can have on creativity and perspective. We reminisce about coming-of-age moments, family reunions, and the small rituals that inspire us.

As you listen, I hope you'll appreciate the raw emotion and candid storytelling as much as I did revisiting it. Whether you're tuning in as a writer looking for inspiration, or as someone seeking comfort in community, this episode is a reminder to cherish every moment, tell your stories, and put pen to paper while you still can.

So pull up a chair (or a spot on the sand), and get ready for an episode that's as much a tribute as it is a celebration of creative living. Rest in peace, Pablo—you are missed, and your story lives on through the words and memories we share.

Let's get into it.

The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing & Random Rants, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/

Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home

Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe

Links referenced in this episode:

Follow Pablo on Twitter: @pabs711 & Instagram: @pabs711

Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN

(Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!)

Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support

Check out my Books

Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way

FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale

Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories

http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback & Hardcover are now available).

Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft. I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/

Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: http://www.amazon.com//ref=as_sl_pc_tf_lc?&tag=sputod0c-20&camp=216797&creative=446321&linkCode=ur1&adid=104DDN7SG8A2HXW52TFB&&ref-refURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.spuntoday.com%2Fcontact%2F

Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10

Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, T-Shirts and more: https://viralstyle.com/store/spuntoday/tonyortiz

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com

Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/

Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk

Listen on: iTunes | Spotify| Pocket Casts| YouTube | Website

Welcome to another episode of the Spun Today podcast! In this captivating session, host Tony Ortiz sits down with Amanda Lucas, a middle school ELA teacher with a rich tapestry of experiences in both education and writing. Amanda shares her journey from being an aspiring writer and journalist to embracing her role as an educator. As an insightful storyteller, she dives deep into the nuances of teaching different grade levels, from dealing with classroom management to confronting bullying. Amanda also opens up about the challenges of adjusting to digital teaching in a post-Covid world. As a co-host of the Che podcast, she shares her insights on how educators navigate the intricacies of teaching, while still finding room to nurture young minds creatively. Tune in to explore Amanda's unique experiences and discover more about her impactful journey in shaping and inspiring future generations.

The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing & Random Rants, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/

Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home

Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe

Links referenced in this episode:

I Need An Idea! (A Leli and Emmi Book) https://amzn.to/4hSvjYs

Check out Amanda's Podcast: Ch! Wherever you listen to podcasts.

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ch/id1443818572

Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/3HLRAzQJiplVcsv68Ce0W0?si=YgEBWrKZSfeGK8nnA11dBw

Follow the Podcast on IG: @chcast

Follow Amanda on IG: @itzmeamandalee

Gotham Writers: https://www.writingclasses.com/

Parents Magazine: https://www.parents.com/parents-magazine/

Meredith Corporation: https://www.meredith.com/national-media/brands

Check out Leli's Magical Stitches: https://vimeo.com/80441330

Articles by Amanda:

https://www.smilesforall.com/first-grade-first-love/

https://www.parents.com/baby/gear/sling/how-to-buy-a-backpack-carrier1/

https://www.parents.com/baby/gear/sling/14-baby-carriers/

Check out Elizabeth Acevedo's website: http://www.acevedowrites.com/

Some of the books referenced in this episode:

I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Your-Perfect-Mexican-Daughter/dp/1524700517/ref=sr_1_1?crid=7SGY6YEGY648&dchild=1&keywords=i%27m+not+your+perfect+mexican+daughter&qid=1592881345&sprefix=i%27m+not+your+per%2Caps%2C155&sr=8-1

How Tia Lola Came to (Visit) Stay (The Tia Lola Stories): https://www.amazon.com/Lola-Came-Visit-Stay-Stories/dp/0440418704/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=tia+lola&qid=1592881392&sr=8-1

Fever 1793: https://www.amazon.com/Fever-1793-Laurie-Halse-Anderson/dp/0689848919/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=Fever+1793&qid=1592881188&sr=8-1

Night: https://www.amazon.com/Night-Elie-Wiesel/dp/0374500010/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1CF64KYF0BMZM&dchild=1&keywords=night+by+elie+wiesel&qid=1592883611&sprefix=night+by+%2Caps%2C157&sr=8-1

Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN

(Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!)

Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support

Check out my Books

Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way

FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale

Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories

http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback & Hardcover are now available).

Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft. I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/

Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: http://www.amazon.com//ref=as_sl_pc_tf_lc?&tag=sputod0c-20&camp=216797&creative=446321&linkCode=ur1&adid=104DDN7SG8A2HXW52TFB&&ref-refURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.spuntoday.com%2Fcontact%2F

Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10

Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, T-Shirts and more: https://viralstyle.com/store/spuntoday/tonyortiz

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com

Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/

Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk

Listen on: iTunes | Spotify| Pocket Casts| YouTube | Website

Welcome back to the Spun Today Podcast with your host, Tony Ortiz. In this special throwback episode, we dive into Episode 281, where Tony revisits one of his earlier works, a riveting short story titled "Ball and Chain." Originally recorded as an audiobook and first shared in Episode 14, this tale explores the unique perspective of a female serial killer, a creative twist inspired by a writing exercise from Stephen King's "On Writing." In this re-released version, Tony adds new context and reflections on the story's evolution, inviting listeners to compare it to the polished version found in his short story collection, "Melted Cold." Join Tony as he shares insights into the writing process, the challenges of character creation, and the art of storytelling. Plus, don't miss the chance to support the podcast and grab some cool Spun Today merch to keep the creative vibes flowing. Tune in and embark on a journey through creativity and imagination!

This is the Audio Book version of the Short Story Ball & Chain by Tony Ortiz

http://www.spuntoday.com/shortstories/ballchain

*Original Release Date: March 12th, 2015*

The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing & Random Rants, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/

Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home

Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe

Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spuntoday

Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home

Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe

Links referenced in this episode:

Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN

(Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!)

Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support

Check out my Books

Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way

FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale

Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories

http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback & Hardcover are now available).

Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft. I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/

Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: http://www.amazon.com//ref=as_sl_pc_tf_lc?&tag=sputod0c-20&camp=216797&creative=446321&linkCode=ur1&adid=104DDN7SG8A2HXW52TFB&&ref-refURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.spuntoday.com%2Fcontact%2F

Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10

Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, T-Shirts and more: https://viralstyle.com/store/spuntoday/tonyortiz

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com

Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/

Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk

Listen on: iTunes | Spotify| Pocket Casts| YouTube | Website

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Spun Today podcast, where creativity knows no bounds. I'm your host, Tony Ortiz, and in today's episode, we're diving into the artistic brilliance of Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl halftime performance. We'll explore how Kendrick stayed true to his unique storytelling approach, weaving a narrative of America, oppression, and redemption during one of the biggest stages in the world. We'll also delve into the layered symbolism and thought-provoking artistry that has sparked intense conversation and admiration.

But that's not all! I'll be highlighting some standout commercials from the Super Bowl and shedding light on the new reality competition, Beast Games, by YouTube's sensation Mr. Beast, which offers one of the largest cash prizes in television history. Plus, get ready for a mind-bending scientific breakthrough in quantum teleportation that could reshape our understanding of computing as we know it.

So whether it's writing, creativity, entertainment, or cutting-edge science, join us for this thrilling journey as we discuss, dissect, and indulge in the unlimited scope of artistic expression. And don't forget, your support helps fuel the passion behind this podcast. Now, let's dive into Episode 280 of the Spun Today podcast—stay tuned for an episode that promises to inspire and enlighten!

The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spuntoday

Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home

Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe

Links referenced in this episode:

Kendrick Lamar Teases STORYTELLING in Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show (Full Interview) https://youtu.be/ZoM6bpr2GH4?si=meHfwpYPxUz-VDAU

Watch Beast Games: https://www.amazon.com/Beast-Games-Season-1/dp/B0CZ7QX7X1

Every Game In Beast Games Explained: https://www.looper.com/1750674/beast-games-every-game-explained/

Follow MrBeast: Instagram - https://bit.ly/3Qob9dx

MrBeast YouTube - https://bit.ly/3D9YaZU

Beast Philanthropy - https://bit.ly/3D6HJxt

Beast Games - https://amzn.to/3EJJ26a

Teleportation' breakthrough: https://www.cio.com/article/3828608/new-breakthrough-on-the-road-to-quantum-supercomputers.html

Distributed quantum computing across an optical network link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08404-x

Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN

(Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!)

Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support

Check out my Books

Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way

FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale

Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories

http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback & Hardcover are now available).

Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft. I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/

Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: http://www.amazon.com//ref=as_sl_pc_tf_lc?&tag=sputod0c-20&camp=216797&creative=446321&linkCode=ur1&adid=104DDN7SG8A2HXW52TFB&&ref-refURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.spuntoday.com%2Fcontact%2F

Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10

Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, T-Shirts and more: https://viralstyle.com/store/spuntoday/tonyortiz

Background Music: Autumn 2011 - Loxbeats & Melody - Roa

Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com

Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/

Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk

Listen on: ApplePodcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | YouTube | Website

Welcome to another episode of the Spun Today Podcast, where writing is our anchor, but our explorations are limitless. I'm your host, Tony Ortiz, and I'm thrilled to have you here for our 279th episode, a free writing session that's as much about personal discovery as it is about crafting prose. This week, we dive deep into the art of free writing, a technique I champion for its cathartic and exploratory benefits.

I'll also share some personal writing updates and a compelling writing tip from the iconic minds of Tim Ferriss and Ryan Holiday, offering insights into the freeing practice of journaling. Then we're delving into Charlie Munger's timeless wisdom from "Poor Charlie's Almanac," exploring how his principles can illuminate your path toward mastering your craft or any creative venture. Lastly, I'll open the time capsule and reflect on one of my past free writing pieces, discussing the journey of navigating emotions with intent.

You'll find inspiration and practical advice to fuel your creative process and perhaps a nudge past your own hurdles in writing or any imaginative pursuit. Thank you for tuning in, and let's get started!

Check out all free-writing pieces at: spuntoday.com/freewriting.

The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spuntoday

Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home

Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe

Links referenced in this episode:

Writing advice from the Daily Stoic Newsletter: https://dailystoic.com/all-articles/

Poor Charlie's Almanack: The Essential Wit and Wisdom of Charles T. Munge

https://amzn.to/4aMlqcS

The Best of Charlie Munger | Most Funny Moments https://youtu.be/gHLA64sh4WE?si=5tvDSAr4T9doEboq

Fear is Like Fire: https://www.spuntoday.com/freewriting/fearislikefire

Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN

(Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!)

Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support

Check out my Books

Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way

FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale

Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories

http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback & Hardcover are now available).

Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft. I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/

Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: http://www.amazon.com//ref=as_sl_pc_tf_lc?&tag=sputod0c-20&camp=216797&creative=446321&linkCode=ur1&adid=104DDN7SG8A2HXW52TFB&&ref-refURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.spuntoday.com%2Fcontact%2F

Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10

Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, T-Shirts and more: https://viralstyle.com/store/spuntoday/tonyortiz

Background Music: Autumn 2011 - Loxbeats

Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com

Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/

Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk

Listen on: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher | Pocket Casts | Google Podcasts | YouTube | Website

Welcome to Episode 278 of the Spun Today podcast! I'm your host, Tony Ortiz, and if you're into writing, creativity, and uncovering layers of storytelling, then you're in for a real treat. In today's episode, we dive deep into three captivating segments that will both entertain and enlighten you.

First off, we're breaking down the fascinating HBO series "The Penguin," exploring the character arcs, narrative devices, and key writing takeaways that make this gritty crime drama a standout. Then we turn our attention to "Perfect Days," a beautiful slice-of-life film that examines the routines and hidden depths of a seemingly simple life. Last but not least, we celebrate another inductee into our Spun Today "Goats Doing Goat Shit" list, spotlighting the remarkable achievements of businessman and philanthropist Charlie Munger.

Whether you're an aspiring writer or just love dissecting the craft of storytelling, we've got something for you. Stick around to learn, get inspired, and maybe even pick up a few tips to enhance your own creative journey. Thanks for tuning in, and let's get started!

The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spuntoday

Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home

Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe

Links referenced in this episode:

The Penguin: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt15435876/

Perfect Days: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt27503384/

Chris Stuckmann's The Best Movies of 2024: https://youtu.be/oCZM6UoZdOQ?si=mYrpJPYKI03Hkseq

Charlie Munger: How to Make Your First $1 Million (5 Steps): https://youtu.be/Jj9DNvGc_lY?si=9foCWblZAzVie5iT

Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN

(Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!)

Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support

Check out my Books

Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way

FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale

Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories

http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback & Hardcover are now available).

Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft. I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/

Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: http://www.amazon.com//ref=as_sl_pc_tf_lc?&tag=sputod0c-20&camp=216797&creative=446321&linkCode=ur1&adid=104DDN7SG8A2HXW52TFB&&ref-refURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.spuntoday.com%2Fcontact%2F

Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10

Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, T-Shirts and more: https://viralstyle.com/store/spuntoday/tonyortiz

Background Music: Autumn 2011 - Loxbeats & Melody - Roa

Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com

Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/

Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk

Listen on: ApplePodcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | YouTube | Website

Welcome to Episode 277 of Spun Today, your creative sanctuary where writing meets inspiration! I'm your host, Tony Ortiz, and today's episode is a special year-in-review recap of 2024, packed with reflections, achievements, and lessons learned. We'll revisit some of the most monumental deals in the creative world, like Issa Rae turning down a multi-million dollar offer to ultimately secure a better deal for her successful career, Kobe Bryant's incredible investment in Body Armor that paid off big time, and the $15+ million Stitcher deal landed by the "Your Mom's House" podcast network.

We'll break down the top five episodes from Spun Today in 2024, including writing sessions, book reviews, and popular discussions about shows like "Black Mirror" and "Jack Ryan." I'll share personal milestones, like the challenging journey through my wife's breast cancer battle. Plus, we'll dive into the highlights and lowlights of tracking listener engagement, social media expansion efforts, and my aspirations for 2025.

Join me as we celebrate the wins, analyze the setbacks, and set the course for a more consistent and productive year ahead. Whether you're a writer, a creative professional, or simply looking for a dose of inspiration, this episode is crafted just for you. Let's jump in and wrap up 2024 with insights and motivation to fuel your creative journey into 2025!

The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spuntoday

Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home

Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe

Links referenced in this episode:

Episode 255 Links: https://www.spuntoday.com/podcast/255

Episode 253 Links: https://www.spuntoday.com/podcast/253

Episode 256 Links: https://www.spuntoday.com/podcast/256

Episode 252 Links: https://www.spuntoday.com/podcast/252

Episode 254 Links: https://www.spuntoday.com/podcast/254

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Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support

Check out my Books

Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way

FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale

Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories

http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback & Hardcover are now available).

Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft. I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/

Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: http://www.amazon.com//ref=as_sl_pc_tf_lc?&tag=sputod0c-20&camp=216797&creative=446321&linkCode=ur1&adid=104DDN7SG8A2HXW52TFB&&ref-refURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.spuntoday.com%2Fcontact%2F

Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10

Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, T-Shirts and more: https://viralstyle.com/store/spuntoday/tonyortiz

Background Music: Autumn 2011 - Loxbeats & Melody - Roa

Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com

Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/

Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk

Listen on: ApplePodcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | YouTube | Website

Welcome back, Spun Today listeners! I'm your host, Tony Ortiz, and you're tuning into episode 276—our final episode of 2024. Today we've got a jam-packed show celebrating creativity, ethical influence, and a look back on some standout moments from the past year.

First up, we'll also journey into the supernatural with a deep dive into Beetlejuice 2, the Tim Burton-esque sequel we've all been waiting for. From its returning stars to new additions like Jenna Ortega, this film has stirred up quite a buzz. We'll unpack plot points, character arcs, and those signature Burton elements that make it a must-watch.

It wouldn't be a Spun Today episode without some comedy! I'll share my thoughts on Tom Papa's latest special "Home Free" and other comedy hits of the year. We'll talk themes, standout bits, and the unique comedic styles that make each special worth watching.

In our "Goats Doing Goat $hit" segment, we're highlighting Mr. Beast again, but this time for his incredible philanthropy. We dive into the world of sustainable chocolate with Mr. Beast's (Jimmy Donaldson) venture, Feastables. We'll explore how his company is setting new ethical standards in cocoa sourcing, and his mission to push Big Chocolate toward more responsible practices.

And finally, I'll reflect on the ups and downs of 2024 and look ahead with optimism to 2025.

Stick around to hear how you can support the podcast—whether through our merch store or by rating and reviewing the show. Plus, I'll share some tips for budding podcasters inspired to start their own journey. Let's get those creative juices flowing, and dive right in!

Welcome to Episode 275 of the Spun Today Podcast! I'm your host, Tony Ortiz, and today, we're diving back into the archives for a throwback to Episode 175, packed with creative tips and insights to fuel your writing journey. This episode is designed to motivate and inspire writers dealing with challenges like writer's block. We'll explore responses to the creative questionnaire from fellow writers and creatives, featuring contributors like Amy Marcello, Joshua Robertson, Elaine Almonte and more.

We'll uncover the origins of their writing passion, sources of inspiration, and strategies for staying motivated. From childhood stories to navigating rejection, this episode offers a wealth of advice and encouragement. Plus, I'll share personal anecdotes and highlight tools and resources that can support your writing endeavors, such as ProWritingAid.

Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you pursue your creative passions. Stay tuned, and let's get inspired together!

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Links referenced in this episode:

Joshua Robertson YouTube Channel for Gamers, Writers & Nerds: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKbNu6bLlOMBHXu8gNTB9cg

Check out Joshua Robertson's books here: https://amzn.to/3VsVE76

Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN

(Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!)

Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support

Check out my Books

Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way

FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale

Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories

http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback & Hardcover are now available).

Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft. I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/

Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: http://www.amazon.com//ref=as_sl_pc_tf_lc?&tag=sputod0c-20&camp=216797&creative=446321&linkCode=ur1&adid=104DDN7SG8A2HXW52TFB&&ref-refURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.spuntoday.com%2Fcontact%2F

Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10

Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, T-Shirts and more: https://viralstyle.com/store/spuntoday/tonyortiz

Background Music: Autumn 2011 - Loxbeats & Melody - Roa

Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com

Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/

Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk

Listen on: ApplePodcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | YouTube | Website