The Chris Voss Show

Scottish schoolteacher Liv Holland has a secret. She’s been carrying a torch for Arran Adebayo, her brother’s best friend, for years. A blind date gone wrong cements in Liv’s mind that Arran has no romantic interest in her whatsoever. But then, with her brother set to marry her own best friend, she and Arran are enlisted to help plan the festivities…

After being left at the altar by his ex, single father Arran is having trouble managing his growing feelings towards the woman who is both his best friend’s sister and his son’s teacher: Liv. Then his mind is blown when fate thrusts them together for an unexpected blind date, but he messes up his chance to tell her how he feels.

As the big day approaches and Liv and Arran’s connection intensifies, their chemistry chafes against their checkered romantic histories. Risking everything for love could mean losing each other forever . . . or being the next ones to find their happy ever after.

About the author

Growing up, she always enjoyed stories about falling in love. But rather than daydreaming of being rescued by a knight in shining armour, she would imagine fighting dragons alongside him.

As an adult, she went to medical school and became a doctor. However as time passed, she began to crave a creative outlet to counter the burnout that her career inflicted upon her, and also to achieve the happy endings that were so often lacking in the real world.

A Zoe Allison novel promises a heroine who is not only her hero’s equal in ability and intellect, but whose hero equals her in emotional intelligence. Her characters overcome conflict infused with spine tingling sexual tension to forge a deep connection as soul mates as well as lovers, and ultimately, they both rescue each other emotionally. Even if they might begin their journey as enemies…

Amazon.com

WARNING: This content may be difficult to digest. There’s a lot of drug use and abuse, overtly sexual situations, some racist shit, sexual and gender slurs, and hookers galore. Oh, and there’s graphic violence and more hookers. On the flip side, there’s no violence to animals—unless you count a few giraffes on leashes. Anyway, if what you’re after is some vanilla, politically correct fluff—if you’re woke or even woke adjacent—this ain’t the place for you. If, however, laugh-out-loud escapism is your bag, I’m your guy.

The Party Came to A Screeching Halt When I Ended Up in Prison

Back in ’07, I found myself in hot water over what the good ol’ U.S. of A. so eloquently referred to as “financial shenanigans.” And they did whatever it took to convince a jury that I was their Madoff. I’ve certainly done my fair share of questionable things in life, but I was not the villain in their particular saga. Still….

The universe has a peculiar way of balancing the scales.

The boredom in prison was excruciating. So I went to see my case manager, wondering what spectacular moneymaking opportunities might be available. The guy told me, get this, “Well, according to policy, the only thing you really can do is a write book.” He even had the audacity to laugh when he said it.

The hell I know about writing?

A few months later and blah-blah-solitary confinement-blah, and I thought, Fuck it, let’s write a book.

And that’s where SNIFF began—an action-adventure story about antihero David Liecht, who worked his way to the top of the commercial real estate world, only to lose everything while finding love…and then teeter on the brink of losing that too.

Now what will David do?

I believe words can be used to create conflict or inspire change; they can cut deep or make you laugh. I choose to laugh, and some people think I’m a damn riot. But I don’t expect everyone to be a fan. This is art, baby, and I’m not here to follow the rules. I love writing. It’s a passion I discovered while in federal prison. And maybe I ruffle a few feathers along the way, and maybe I don’t. Truthfully, I hope you stick around. Let’s see what kind of shit we can get into.

About the author

Buying and selling mobile homes (because who doesn’t love a good trailer?); led to flipping houses (before it was en vogue); developing real estate (for the sake of humanity); running nightclubs (where the real magic happens); coding software (because who needs experience?); selling flowers online (the ultimate hustle); serving sushi (raw fish and entrepreneurship go hand-in-hand); and, the pièce de résistance—the African diamond trade (because nothing screams “legit business” like blood diamonds).

Shockingly, Brown’s financial wizardry didn’t quite extend to his tax returns (integrity is overrated).

Uncle Sam slapped him with tax evasion, failure to file taxes on time, and wire fraud (just a few minor oversights). When offered a plea deal, Brown, ever the thick-headed rebel, refused to admit defeat (because he’d done nothing wrong in his mind). More charges followed, and, spoiler alert, he blew the trial. And well, let’s just say he’s now an expert on the federal prison system.

“All that glitters ain’t gold, folks.”

Inspired by a newspaper article that claimed writing a book was the third hardest thing to do (presumably, after escaping from prison and getting a decent haircut behind bars), Brown, the ultimate thrill seeker, decided to take on that ultimate challenge. He was going to pen a novel while serving his sentence (because, why not?).

GC got to work.

Since 2014, he’s been churning out books like they’re going out of style (which, let’s be real, they probably are).

Two series and nine years later, Brown emerged from the depths of the prison system ready to take on the world (or at least the literary world). And in a shocking twist, he claims that sixteen-plus years in multiple federal facilities was the best thing that ever happened to him (prison food and jumpsuits withstanding).

“I wouldn’t be the author or person I am today without life behind bars,” he says surprisingly straight-faced.

Since his release in late 2023, GC Brown has been living life to the fullest. His first novel, SNIFF, is hitting the shelves on November 1, 2024 (feel free to pre-order on Amazon). And, because why stop there, he’s also started UpCup Koffee Company with two other ex-felons, Alex Diaz and Dr. William McArthur III (because nothing screams “success” like a mushroom coffee venture run by ex-cons).

https://www.amazon.com/Never-Been-Level-Playing-Field/dp/B0D785ZDC9/

In this book, you will:

Uncover the pervasive influence of White-oriented systems and beliefs that have shaped American society for centuries.

It’s Never Been a Level Playing Field offers a profound exploration of the deeply entrenched issues of race, privilege, and systemic inequality that have shaped the fabric of our nation. With keen insight, Brigham dissects the myths that perpetuate racial disparities and presents bold ideas for dismantling these longstanding injustices. To those in pursuit of John Lewis’ good trouble, this book stands as a vital roadmap for understanding the roots of racial injustice and a compelling call to action for all of us to take part in building a more just and equitable society. A beloved community.”

Comprehensive and bold, It’s Never Been a Level Playing Field challenges readers to rethink racial inequality in America. Critiquing the fallacy of individual meritocracy, the book exposes the dirty underbelly of White supremacy and domination at the heart of the American project and its consequences for Black Americans. From urban renewal and redlining to the dumping of toxic waste in Black communities, Brigham shows how White Americans and institutions have upheld an unjust system through their action and inaction. In tracing how violent practices have endured and shape-shifted from slavery to our pretense politics, he shows why racial disparities and disadvantage persist in everything from education, health care, and criminal justice to housing and entrepreneurship—and what we can do about it. It’s Never Been a Level Playing Field is sure to spark needed debate in classrooms and boardrooms, and around kitchen tables across the country.

He has facilitated numerous national and international forums.

Since 2010, his bread-and-butter consulting has focused primarily on local and metro D.C. issues, such as land use policy, affordable housing, transportation, support for BIPOC business owners in jeopardy of displacement, economic development, and public school redistricting.

In the past decade, Steve’s work and volunteer time have increasingly tackled racial equity and equitable development issues.

Steve is the proud father of two bi-racial children and lives in Prince George’s County, MD.

He received his Master’s in applied behavioral sciences from Johns Hopkins University.

Procrastinationstation.ca

About the Guest(s):

Episode Summary:

In an engaging conversation, Chris Abdey breaks down the five types of procrastinators—Perfectionists, Warriors, Dreamers, Crisis Makers, and Defiers—and how each type approaches tasks differently. The discussion progresses to understanding the psychological barriers and “heart walls” that impede productivity. Chris Voss humorously reflects on personal anecdotes of procrastination, serving as a real-life demonstration of common pitfalls and potential for transformation. The pair further explore how creative minds often encounter unique procrastination challenges, waiting for moments of inspiration to act.

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For those eager to delve deeper into innovative leadership strategies, this episode promises valuable insights. Don’t miss out on future episodes of The Chris Voss Show for more thought-provoking discussions and expert analyses.

Amazon.com

Buckle up for the ride of your life as Fifty Shades of True Crime sets into motion a bizarre trajectory of next-level carnal knowledge. You’ll never look at your neighbor the same way, you’ll wonder about your best friend, and you’ll imagine what your coworker does behind closed doors. Deviant sexual behavior is part of our human psyche, and as offensive as it may seem to some people, it happens in your community. Usually, the private world of people’s lives remains undisclosed, but those secrets will come alive as you explore these real-life events.

You’ll get the opportunity to play “Name That Crime,” a soul-searching experience that lets the reader pick a perp’s perversion. “The Last Climax” will uncover what happens when we exceed the human limits of hypersexuality. And finally, if you want to spice up your love life, “Teachable Tidbits” is a step-by-step tutorial filled with naughty nuggets. Proceed with caution as you discover that your sexual desires might not be so freaky after all . . . or maybe they are?

About the author

Born in the small town of Homer, Alaska, Doug and his wife, Kim, raised their children in the Anchorage area. His family originates from southeast Alaska, mainly around the Ketchikan area. He is Tlingit Indian and heavily connected to his Alaska Native culture and heritage.

Doug and Kim are also avid oenophiles who started a wine business in Anchorage in 2007. Alaskans have a passionate love for the outdoors, and the Fifer family is no exception. Fishing, hiking, snowboarding, and extreme sports top their list. Their family dog, Malbec, is considered one of the kids and snowboards a bit too.

As the author of Fifty Shades of True Crime, Doug brings to life stories so bizarre, so intense, and so twisted that the reader will be left speechless. This is not your run-of-the-mill true crime; it’s straight from the source, an author-led journey into how far some will go to achieve their sexually freakish desires. You’ve never read a book quite like this one; it’s a cringeworthy reality check on humanity. You might think you can handle the truth, but this cop’s truth is as savage as it gets.

When asked about the stressors of being a cop, Doug replied, “Humor plays a key role in keeping your sanity, not just in law enforcement but life in general.” His writing certainly reflects this philosophy, as Doug believes in taking life seriously—just not too seriously.

chariotwholesale.com

Episode Summary:

Throughout the conversation, Cole provides valuable insights into the evolving trends in kitchen and bathroom designs. They delve into the significance of utilizing a professional design team to avoid common pitfalls associated with DIY approaches. From discussing the burgeoning popularity of bidets in the U.S. market to the technological advancements in smart faucets, the episode is packed with expert tips and trends. Additionally, listeners are introduced to Blade Runner Tools and the innovations in diamond tools and stone cutting, illustrating Chariot’s comprehensive approach to building a timeless and efficient home.

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Chariot Plumbing Supply and Design: chariotwholesale.com

Dive into the full episode to explore more on modern design trends, and stay tuned for future episodes that bring you expert insights from leaders and innovators across industries.

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Avita Wellness Website

Episode Summary:

Deep Cast aims to redefine how listeners find, tune in, and engage with podcasts in a world overwhelmed by content. With over half a billion users worldwide and countless zombie podcasts, the struggle to surface relevant and engaging material is real. Lucas outlines a vision for AI-enhancements that streamline discovery, foster curiosity, and simplify the sharing of profound podcast moments. Their platform addresses the disconnect between content and its audience by unlocking and categorizing podcast insights in ways never before possible.

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Support for Podcasters: The platform will offer tools like automated asset generation, social post creation, and even templates for merchandise, simplifying the process for creators to expand their influence and monetize effectively.

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I Will Do Better: A Father’s Memoir of Heartbreak, Parenting, and Love by Charles Bock

By turns comical and heartbreaking, I Will Do Better is the remarkable journey of two defiant and wounded people, and their personal growth in the name of love.

Named one of the Best Books of Fall by Oprah Daily and People

“A uniquely forthright and powerful addition to the literature of fatherhood.” (Kirkus)

The novelist Charles Bock was a reluctant parent, tagging along for the ride of fatherhood, obsessed primarily with his dream of a writing career.

But when his daughter Lily was six months old, his wife, Diana, was diagnosed with a complex form of leukemia. Two and half years later, when all treatments and therapies had been exhausted, Bock found himself a widower—devastated, drowning in medical bills, and saddled with a daunting responsibility. He had to nurture Lily, and, somehow, maybe even heal himself.

I Will Do Better is Charles’s pull-no-punches account of what happened next. Playdates, music classes, temper tantrums, oh-so-cool babysitters, first days at school, family reunions, single-parent dating, and a citywide crippling natural disaster—were minefields especially treacherous for Charles and Lily because of their preexisting vulnerability: their grief.

Charles sought help from friends, family, and therapists, but this overgrown, middle-aged boy-man and his plucky child became, foremost, a duo—they found their way together.

This frank and tender memoir of parenting his infant daughter in the wake of of his wife’s untimely death is “bracingly honest [and] tender,” commented Publshers Weekly. “Single parents will find much to identify with in this warts-and-all account.”