The C.K. Simms Show

The C.K. Simms Show

By C.K. SimmsEducationSelf-Improvement
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The C.K. Simms Show episodes

  • Warrior Mom Rising: Jenn Robb on Faith, Mental Health, and the Power of Love to Heal and Thrive

    Guest Name: Jenn Robb

    https://warriormomcoach.net/

    Instagram: @warriormom_jennrobb

    Facebook: Warrior Mom's Rising


    Summary:

    In this deeply moving episode, C.K. Simms speaks with author and nurse practitioner Jenn Robb about her book Warrior Mom Rising: A Mom’s Battle Plan to Advocate, Overcome, and Thrive. Jenn shares her family’s journey through her daughter’s mental health struggles, including anxiety, depression, and an accidental near-fatal suicide attempt.


    Together, they explore the importance of advocacy, empathy, and faith in navigating mental illness—both for children and caregivers. Jenn emphasizes the need to find the right practitioners, build community, balance prayer with practical therapy, and replace isolation with compassion. This is a heartfelt conversation about courage, faith, and the healing power of love, compassion and understanding.


    Takeaways:

    • Mental health conversations are vital, especially for adolescents facing isolation and internal “noise.”

    • Caregivers must learn to advocate effectively, not just react emotionally.

    • Medication can be a useful tool—but not a replacement—for emotional healing and therapy.

    • Finding the right therapist or practitioner is essential to recovery.

    • Parents need to recognize behavioral changes early—withdrawal, apathy, or slipping grades.

    • Prayer and faith can coexist with therapy and medicine; one does not replace the other.

    • Building a supportive community prevents caregiver isolation and strengthens resilience.

    • Healing is not linear—it’s a journey with highs, lows, and constant learning.

    • Self-reflection and empathy lead to greater understanding of human suffering.

    • Faith, advocacy, and love together can transform pain into purpose.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Unconscious Bias

    05:29 The Journey of Warrior Mom Rising

    10:31 Understanding Mental Health Struggles

    14:12 The Impact of a Crisis

    18:39 Advocating for Mental Health Care

    23:27 The Role of Medication in Mental Health

    28:12 Navigating Medication and Mental Health

    29:15 The Journey to Advocacy and Community Support

    34:10 Breaking the Stigma in Faith Communities

    35:48 The Role of Prayer in Mental Health

    37:44 Finding Hope and Support in Community

    40:42 Transforming Struggles into Strengths

    44:23 Empowering Conversations and Future Goals


    Keywords

    #advocacy #anxiety #caregiversupport #childmentalhealth #compassion #depression #faithandhealing #healingjourney #hope #inspiration #jennrobb #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #mindfulness #momlife #parenting #podcast #podmatch #resilience #selfcare #spiritualgrowth #strength #suicideawareness #suicideprevention #thecksimsshow #therapy #thriving #warriormom #wellness


    Want to be a guest on Poddin' My Noggin? Send C.K. Simms a message on PodMatch at https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1715119227867423c07672fbc

    51 min
  • From Rock Bottom to Resilience: C.K. Simms Celebrates 100 Episodes With His Bestie!

    Summary

    In this milestone 100th episode of Poddin’ My Noggin, host C.K. Simms welcomes his best friend and lifelong inspiration. Together, they reflect on his bestie's journey from childhood trauma and addiction to higher education, healing, and self-acceptance.


    Through laughter, vulnerability, and deep friendship, they explore what it means to redefine success, face inner demons, and rebuild life piece by piece. A heartfelt celebration of perseverance, growth, and the power of showing up for yourself—one small step at a time.


    Takeaways

    • Healing is never linear—progress happens one decision, one boundary, one breath at a time.

    • External validation will never replace true self-worth.

    • Education can be both a tool for survival and a journey of self-rediscovery.

    • Grace means allowing yourself to be imperfect and still worthy.

    • Trauma doesn’t define you; how you rise beyond it does.

    • Success looks different for everyone—define it on your own terms.

    • People who’ve faced adversity often carry the deepest empathy and kindness.

    • Self-reflection is uncomfortable, but it is vital for lasting growth.

    • Celebrate milestones—not because they make you “better,” but because they mean you kept going.

    • Surround yourself with people who see your light even when you can’t.


    Chapters

    00:00 Celebrating 100 Episodes

    02:50 The Journey of Adversity

    05:39 Transformation and Growth

    08:05 Defining Success and Self-Worth

    11:00 The Impact of Childhood Trauma

    13:34 Navigating Relationships and Self-Discovery

    16:16 The Road to Education and Career

    18:42 Finding Validation and Self-Acceptance

    21:31 The Power of Resilience

    24:03 Reflections on Personal Growth

    26:38 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations

    41:38 Finding Grace in Achievements

    45:23 The Journey of Self-Acceptance

    49:50 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

    54:04 The Impact of Intergenerational Trauma

    58:20 Living for Yourself

    01:02:36 The Messiness of Life

    01:07:51 Defining Success on Your Own Terms


    Keywords

    #100thepisode #adversity #authenticity #cksimms #friendship #growth #healing #hope #inspiration #kindness #mentalhealth #overcomingtrauma #persistence #podcast #podcastcommunity #poddinmynoggin #podmatch #recovery #relationships #resilience #selfacceptance #selfdiscovery #selfgrowth #storytelling #success #survivor #trauma #wellness #womenempowerment


    Want to be a guest on Poddin' My Noggin? Send C.K. Simms a message on PodMatch at https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1715119227867423c07672fbc

    1 hr 25 min
  • Inna Segal on Healing Through Awareness: Understanding the Secret Language of Your Body

    Guest Name: Inna Segal

    https://www.innasegal.com/

    Instagram: innasegalauthor


    Summary

    In this powerful episode, C.K. Simms welcomes internationally acclaimed author and healer Inna Segal, creator of The Secret Language of Your Body. Inna shares her remarkable journey from childhood struggles and illness to self-healing, intuitive discovery, and global teaching. She discusses how emotional pain manifests physically, the role of generational trauma, and the deep mind–body connection that drives true wellness. Together, they explore practical ways to listen to your body’s messages, release stuck energy, and step into self-empowerment, healing, and awareness.


    Takeaways

    • Inna Segal’s healing journey began after years of chronic pain, psoriasis, and emotional trauma.

    • She discovered that the body communicates through physical symptoms that mirror emotional wounds.

    • Her breakthrough came when she asked for divine help and listened to what her body was saying.

    • Healing is not instant—it’s layered and requires patience, awareness, and self-responsibility.

    • Generational trauma can manifest physically through inherited emotional patterns.

    • Emotions such as fear, guilt, and suppression can block energy and affect specific areas of the body.

    • Every organ and body part holds wisdom and symbolic meaning that can guide self-healing.

    • Transformation happens when we connect inner awareness with practical healing actions.

    • Inna’s work bridges spirituality and science, encouraging logical understanding with intuition.

    • Her masterclasses and upcoming book explore the seven stages of healing and conscious living.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Inna Sigal and Her Book

    01:58 Inna's Early Life and Challenges

    06:09 Health Struggles and Discovering Healing

    11:38 The Turning Point: A Profound Healing Experience

    18:46 Realizing the Ability to Help Others

    21:50 Exploring Healing and Learning from Others

    29:40 Finding One's Own Path in Healing

    32:44 The Journey to Healing Discovery

    36:27 The Birth of a Book

    44:00 The Role of Testimonials in Healing

    50:25 Understanding Body Wisdom

    01:05:26 Navigating the Healing Process


    Keywords

    #awakening #bodymindconnection #cksimms #emotionalhealing #energywork #healthjourney #healing #healingenergy #healingjourney #holistichealth #holistichealing #innerself #innasegal #inspiration #intuitivehealing #mentalhealth #mindbody #mindbodyconnection #personalgrowth #podcast #poddinmynoggin #selfawareness #selfcare #selfhealing #selflove #spiritualgrowth #thecksimsshow #wellbeing #wellness #podmatch


    Want to be a guest on Poddin' My Noggin? Send C.K. Simms a message on PodMatch at https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1715119227867423c07672fbc


    1 hr 11 min
  • Turning Chaos into Comedy: David Finkle’s Humpty Trumpty 2.0 and the Power of Creative Expression

    Guest Name: David Finkle

    https://www.davidfinklewrites.com/


    Summary

    In this lively and insightful episode, C.K. Simms welcomes journalist, author, and Tony voter David Finkle to discuss his newest book "Humpty Trumpty 2.0: Donald J. Trump’s Second First 100 Days in Verse". Finkle shares how humor and poetry became his creative outlet to process the chaos of modern politics, writing one rhyme a day to chronicle history through satire. Together, they dive into the craft of storytelling, the elitism of modern theater, and the creative spark behind his other works like The Great Gatsby Murder Case and People Tell Me Things. A witty, thoughtful conversation about art, resilience, and truth in turbulent times.


    Takeaways

    • David Finkle turned political dismay into creativity through daily satirical rhymes.

    • Humpty Trumpty 2.0 chronicles Trump’s first 100 days in verse, following the success of his first volume.

    • Finkle is also a long-time theater critic and Tony voter, reviewing over 100 productions yearly.

    • His storytelling often blends humor, surrealism, and literary homage, like The Great Gatsby Murder Case.

    • Finkle believes creative expression can turn despair into productivity and healing.

    • He started writing fiction later in life, proving it’s never too late to follow inspiration.

    • C. K. and David discuss the elitism of theater ticket pricing and accessibility to the arts.

    • Finkle’s characters are inspired by dreams, observations, and a deep love of literature.

    • His idea for a future series includes “The Oliver Twist Murder Case” and possibly “Wuthering Heights.”

    • C. K. proposes discounted matinees for understudies — a suggestion Finkle plans to raise in real life.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to David Finkle and His Work

    01:10 The Inspiration Behind Humpty Trumpty 2.0

    04:48 David Finkle's Literary Journey

    10:40 The Role of a Theater Critic

    15:49 Theater Accessibility and Pricing Issues

    21:26 The Creative Process and Future Works

    29:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


    Keywords

    #arts #authorinterview #broadway #cksimms #creativity #davidfinkle #humor #humptytrumpty #journalism #literature #nyc #poddinmynoggin #poetry #politics #satire #storytelling #theater #theatercritic #theatrereview #tonyawards #tonyvoter #truth #usa #verse #writing #writingcommunity #PodMatch


    Want to be a guest on Poddin' My Noggin? Send C.K. Simms a message on PodMatch at https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1715119227867423c07672fbc


    37 min
  • How Camilla Brinkworth Transformed Her Life Through Naturopathy, Veganism & Self-Healing

    Guest Name: Camilla Brinkworth

    https://www.camillaclare.com/


    Summary

    In this heartfelt episode of Poddin’ My Noggin, host C.K. Simms welcomes holistic healer and naturopath Camilla Brinkworth, joining from Bali to share her powerful journey from chronic illness and trauma to wellness and spiritual balance. Camilla opens up about reversing arthritis through a vegan diet, overcoming depression and PMDD, and embracing her calling as a healer. Together, they explore trauma-informed wellness, family constellations, naturopathy, rapid core healing, and the connection between mind, body, and intuition. Her story is one of self-discovery, compassion, and the power of aligning health with purpose.


    Takeaways

    • PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder) affects 5–8% of menstruating women and is often trauma-linked.

    • Camilla overcame arthritis and depression by transitioning to a whole-food vegan diet.

    • She reversed chronic pain naturally—experiencing life-changing results in just two weeks.

    • Trauma can manifest physically; healing requires addressing both mind and body.

    • Family Constellations therapy helps restore love and balance within family systems.

    • Veganism can be ethical, spiritual, and deeply healing when approached holistically.

    • True wellness includes nervous system regulation and emotional integration.

    • Intuition is one of the most powerful guides for healing and transformation.

    • Rapid Core Healing and Kundalini Yoga can support emotional release and self-awareness.

    • Camilla’s philosophy centers on balance, compassion, and empowering others to heal naturally.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Camilla Brinkworth

    03:04 Camilla's Journey to Wellness

    06:01 Childhood Experiences and Early Interests

    09:11 Understanding PMDD and Its Impact

    11:59 The Medical Community's Response to PMDD

    14:57 The Shift to Veganism and Its Benefits

    20:04 Exploring Different Types of Veganism

    26:15 Exploring Raw Food and Intuitive Eating

    27:45 The B12 Dilemma: Nature vs. Modern Practices

    28:44 Modern Food Processes and Health Issues

    33:43 Understanding Family Constellations

    36:41 The Impact of Veganism on Mental Health

    38:08 SIBO: Understanding Gut Health in Vegans

    40:23 Camilla Claire Holistic Health: A Global Practice

    43:08 Advice for Transitioning to a Vegan Lifestyle


    Keywords

    #balance #bali #chakras #cksimms #familyconstellations #healingjourney #holistichealth #intuitivehealing #kundaliniyoga #mentalhealth #mindbodyconnection #naturopathy #naturalhealing #plantbased #pmdd #pmddawareness #podcast #poddinmynoggin #podmatch #selfdiscovery #selfhealing #spiritualgrowth #traumahealing #traumarecovery #vegan #veganhealing #veganjourney #wellness #womenshealth #yoga


    Want to be a guest on Poddin' My Noggin? Send C.K. Simms a message on PodMatch at https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1715119227867423c07672fbc


    49 min
  • Dr. Tawainna Houston on Black Wellness Barriers, Systemic Racism & Healing for the Future

    Guest Name: Dr. Tawainna Houston

    https://blackcellconsulting.com/black-wellness-barriers/


    Summary

    In this powerful episode, Dr. Tawainna Houston—naturopathic doctor, educator, and author of Black Wellness Barriers—joins C.K. Simms to explore systemic racism’s impact on health, intergenerational trauma, and the urgent need for culturally centered healing. Together, they unpack how stress, invisibility, and medical bias affect Black communities, why maternal mortality remains alarmingly high, and what steps individuals and institutions can take toward equity, reparations, and true wellness.


    Takeaways

    • Racism is “baked in” to America’s systems—impacting health, economics, and daily safety for Black people.

    • Chronic hypervigilance elevates cortisol, increasing risks for hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

    • Black women are three times more likely to die during pregnancy or childbirth, not because of income, but due to bias and neglect.

    • Maternal care highlights dangerous gaps in how Black women are heard and treated in medical spaces.

    • Intergenerational trauma and epigenetics show how slavery’s impact still manifests in modern health disparities.

    • Invisibility in policymaking and medicine means Black communities are often excluded from critical resources.

    • Culturally centered healing requires truly seeing patients and dismantling implicit bias in healthcare.

    • Reparations and structural investment in housing, healthcare, and community resources are essential.

    • Conscious reflection and conversation can reveal hidden biases and foster deeper allyship.

    • Individual empowerment and community wellness strategies can help slow systemic harm while pushing for change.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Black Wellness Barriers

    01:32 The Motivation Behind Writing the Book

    03:52 Understanding Invisibility and Hypervigilance

    12:25 Historical Context of Stress in the Black Community

    16:36 Maternal Mortality and Healthcare Disparities

    20:57 Ancestral Trauma and Its Modern Implications

    29:10 Understanding Historical Accountability

    31:27 The Legacy of White Supremacy

    33:39 The Shrinking Space of White Male Dominance

    36:11 Culturally Centered Healing

    39:51 The Impact of Implicit Bias in Healthcare

    42:05 A Call for Systemic Change

    45:29 Reparations and Economic Equity

    48:50 Navigating Difficult Conversations

    51:06 Empowering Black Wellness


    Keywords

    #ancestralhealing #blackexcellence #blackhealth #blackhistory #blackmaternalhealth #blackvoices #communityhealing #culturallycentered #diversityandinclusion #epigenetics #equitymatters #georgefloyd #healingjourney #healthdisparities #historicaltrauma #justiceforall #maternalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #naturopathicmedicine #podcasting #podmatch #racialjustice #reparationsnow #socialchange #systemicracism #tawainnahouston #wellnessforall #wellnessthatworks #womenshealth


    Want to be a guest on Poddin' My Noggin? Send C.K. Simms a message on PodMatch at https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1715119227867423c07672fbc

    54 min
  • Tommy Kilpatrick Reveals the Truth About Credit Cards, Debt, and Bank Fraud

    Guest Name: Tommy Kilpatrick

    https://www.diy-debtrelief.com/

    Facebook: Tommy-A-Kilpatrick


    Summary

    In this episode, C.K. Simms sits down with author and victim rights advocate Tommy A. Kilpatrick, who claims banks worldwide are committing fraud with credit cards. Tommy shares his personal journey from $85,000 in debt to filing lawsuits and seeing his credit reports wiped clean. He challenges long-held beliefs about debt, explains the difference between true merchant credit and bank-issued cards, and offers insight into how language, contracts, and consumer rights play a critical role in financial freedom.


    Takeaways

    • Tommy argues that bank-issued credit cards are not true debt but gifts disguised as loans.

    • He distinguishes between merchant-issued credit (which involves an invoice) and bank cards (which do not).

    • Filing federal lawsuits against banks led to his debts disappearing from his credit report.

    • Language is key: reframing debt as “alleged” shifts the burden of proof onto banks.

    • Generational conditioning has normalized unquestioned trust in banks.

    • Promissory notes are required for legitimate loans, but credit card users rarely sign one.

    • Banks profit heavily from consumer fees—averaging $23.04 per cardholder monthly.

    • Fraud can undo contracts, making many credit card agreements questionable.

    • The Fair Credit Reporting Act (and Canadian equivalents) allows removal of fraudulent debt reports.

    • Tommy offers free consultations and his book to help consumers challenge alleged bank debt.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Controversial Claims

    01:12 The Journey into Debt and Lawsuits

    03:18 Skepticism and the Disappearance of Debt

    05:18 Understanding Bank Fraud and Victim Advocacy

    06:21 Global Implications of Credit Card Debt

    10:00 Challenging Conventional Beliefs

    14:25 Nitty Gritty of Credit Card Debt

    20:38 The Nature of Loans and Promissory Notes

    26:11 The Gift Card Analogy

    27:27 Conclusion and Resources


    Keywords

    #bankfraud #creditcards #creditscore #creditsolutions #debtrelief #debtstrategy #financialfreedom #financialliteracy #fraudawareness #fraudprevention #generationalbeliefs #invoices #languageandlaw #lawandfinance #mindsetshift #moneyawareness #moneylessons #moneytalks #nukeyourdebt #personaldevelopment #personalgrowth #podcastinterview #podmatch #retirementplanning #selfempowerment #truthaboutbanks #victimrights #wealthawareness #wealthbuilding #worldwidefraud


    Want to be a guest on Poddin' My Noggin? Send C.K. Simms a message on PodMatch at https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1715119227867423c07672fbc


    32 min
  • Resilience & Hope: Author Julie Barth’s Story of Family, Loss, and Survival

    Guest Name: Julie Barth

    https://www.juliebarthauthor.com/


    Summary:

    In this powerful episode, author and philanthropist Julie Barth opens up about her extraordinary journey—marrying her childhood sweetheart, raising six children, caring for a daughter with special needs, and facing the devastating loss of her husband to cancer. Julie also shares her decade-long struggle in an abusive marriage, how she found the courage to leave, and why she now writes and advocates for others in crisis. Her story is one of resilience, hope, and the power of using pain to help others heal.


    Takeaways

    • True resilience often comes from surviving unimaginable personal trials.

    • Being a special needs parent brings both isolation and profound love.

    • Communities often don’t know how to support families in crisis—action is more powerful than words.

    • Abuse is complex; victims stay for layered reasons like fear, shame, and protecting children.

    • Emotional abuse can be just as damaging as physical abuse, yet it often goes unrecognized.

    • Hope can both sustain and trap people in difficult relationships.

    • Julie’s books serve as both memoir and guide—moving from caregiving, to survival, to empowerment.

    • Writing can be a form of processing trauma and preserving family history.

    • Her nonprofit, Colin James Barth Outreach, helps women in crisis connect with helpful resources.

    • Julie’s mission: turn personal pain into a roadmap for others to find safety, courage, and strength.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Julie Barth's Journey

    02:28 Younger Julie: Reflections on Childhood and Family

    05:12 The Complexity of Parenthood and Expectations

    08:22 Love and Loss: Marrying My First Crush

    10:57 Navigating Special Needs Parenting

    13:37 The Isolation of Special Needs Families

    16:25 Coping with Grief and Community Support

    18:56 Facing Cancer: A Personal Battle

    21:31 Life After Loss: Moving Forward

    24:20 Rebuilding Life: New Relationships and Challenges

    26:38 The Struggles of an Abusive Relationship

    29:18 Understanding the Reasons for Staying in Toxic Situations

    30:59 The Complexity of Leaving Abusive Relationships

    36:08 Shame and Self-Perception in Abuse

    40:43 The Journey of Writing and Healing

    46:00 Creating a Supportive Community for Survivors


    Keywords

    #advocacy #authorinterview #booklovers #caregiversupport #domesticabuseawareness #empowermentjourney #healingjourney #hope #inspirationalstories #memoir #mentalhealthawareness #nonprofitwork #overcomingadversity #parentingjourney #personalstrength #podcastconversation #podcastguest #podcastinterview #podmatch #resilience #selfcompassion #selfdiscovery #selfhealing #specialneedsparenting #storyofsurvival #traumahealing #truthseeker #wellnesstalk #womensvoices #writingcommunity


    Want to be a guest on Poddin' My Noggin? Send C.K. Simms a message on PodMatch at https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1715119227867423c07672fbc


    1 hr 4 min
  • The Attempt To End Her Life Became The Beginning Of Healing & Hope | Lindsay Stadel, 8 Years Later

    Guest Name: Lindsay Stadel

    https://lindsaystadel.com/

    Instagram: lindsaycoltharp79

    TikTok: lindsaystadel

    Facebook: lindsay.a.coltharp


    Summary:

    In this emotional episode, Lindsay Stadel reflects on the night—exactly 8 years ago as of this episode’s release—when she attempted to end her life. What she thought would be the end instead became the beginning of a new chapter filled with resilience, healing, and hope. Lindsay shares openly about her struggles with abuse, depression, and lasting injuries, as well as the judgment she faced in her small community. Through therapy, honesty, and the support of loved ones, she discovered the strength to rebuild and now uses her story to break stigma, advocate for mental health, and remind others that even in the darkest times, hope and renewal are possible.


    Takeaways:

    1. Surviving a suicide attempt can become the turning point toward healing and self-discovery.

    2. Abuse comes in many forms—verbal, emotional, physical, and financial—and can deeply impact self-worth.

    3. Lived experience is a powerful tool for breaking stigma and supporting others with mental health struggles.

    4. Judgment from others can be harsh, but self-acceptance and resilience can silence the stigma.

    5. Lasting physical injuries serve as reminders, but they can also anchor gratitude for survival.

    6. Therapy, honesty, and vulnerability play critical roles in recovery and rebuilding.

    7. Supportive relationships—friends, family, and eventually her husband—were key to Lindsay’s survival.

    8. Small communities may amplify rumors, but courage comes from walking proudly despite them.

    9. Sharing stories in books, documentaries, and schools helps others feel less alone.

    10. Suicide awareness requires everyday conversation—it should be treated like any other health issue.


    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction and Background

    02:23 The Night of the Attempt

    05:15 Judgment and Self-Perception

    08:02 The Aftermath and Recovery

    10:27 Living with the Consequences

    12:59 Finding Purpose and Advocacy

    15:33 Writing and Sharing the Story

    17:48 Future Aspirations and Involvement


    Keywords:

    #abuseawareness #anxietyrecovery #authorinterview #born2risk #depressionsurvivor #domesticviolenceawareness #healingjourney #inspirationalstories #lindsaystadel #livedexperience #mentalhealthadvocate #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #podcastconversation #podcastguest #podcastinterview #podmatch #ptsdrecovery #resilience #selfacceptance #selfhealing #selflovejourney #shatteringstigma #speakerstory #suicideawareness #suicideprevention #survivorstories #traumahealing #womensupportingwomen #youarenotalone


    Want to be a guest on Poddin' My Noggin? Send C.K. Simms a message on PodMatch at ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1715119227867423c07672fbc⁠


    44 min
  • John DeDakis | CNN Veteran and Author of Enemies Domestic on Journalism, Politics & Democracy.

    Guest Name: John DeDakis

    https://johndedakis.com/

    Instagram: dedakisjohn


    Summary:

    In this powerful episode of Poddin’ My Noggin, host C.K. Simms welcomes award-winning novelist, former CNN editor, and White House correspondent John DeDakis. Together, they dive into his latest political thriller Enemies Domestic, part of the Lark Chadwick mystery series. DeDakis shares the inspiration behind writing from a female perspective, weaving real-world issues like abortion rights, media integrity, and threats to democracy into compelling fiction. They explore the balance between fact and storytelling, the importance of journalistic ethics, and how fiction can reflect today’s polarized political landscape. This conversation blends suspense, history, and hope — leaving listeners with new insights into resilience, justice, and the future of democracy.


    Takeaways:

    - Real-world issues in fiction: DeDakis weaves current events like abortion rights and political polarization into a thriller format, making the story both entertaining and thought-provoking.

    - Balanced storytelling: He aimed to portray all sides of the abortion debate fairly, giving readers space to see their perspectives reflected.

    - Enemies within: The title "Enemies Domestic" highlights how today’s biggest threats to democracy often come from inside a nation, not abroad.

    - Journalistic integrity matters: As a former CNN editor, DeDakis stresses the importance of attribution, fact-checking, and avoiding speculation, especially during breaking news.

    - The danger of disinformation: His previous book "Fake" explored how lies spread in media can have devastating real-world consequences.

    - Writing from a female perspective: By listening closely to female colleagues and friends, he authentically developed his protagonist, Lark Chadwick, showing that emotions are not gender-specific.

    - The role of mentors: Characters like Lionel Stone reflect the importance of guidance and mentorship in both journalism and life.

    - Collaboration in creativity: His wife Cindy was his “alpha reader” and creative partner, helping him shape the direction of the novel.

    - Finding common ground: DeDakis reminds us that even in divisive times, asking “help me understand” can uncover shared humanity across political lines.

    - Hope through history: While today’s politics feel dire, he notes America has survived worse (Civil War, WWII, Vietnam) — history swings like a pendulum, and there is reason to remain optimistic.


    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction to John DeDakis

    01:17 The Journey of Writing Enemies Domestic

    04:18 Creating the Character of Lark Chadwick

    11:06 The Impact of Current Events on the Narrative

    16:35 Exploring the Abortion Debate in Fiction

    19:29 Enemies Domestic: A Reflection on Political Climate

    23:50 Character Development and Authenticity in Writing

    27:52 Righteous Indignation and Perspectives on Rights

    30:29 Echo Chambers and Critical Thinking

    34:59 Historical Context of Current Events

    38:38 Optimism Amidst Chaos

    40:08 The Need for Journalistic Integrity

    46:19 The Role of Anonymous Sources in Journalism


    Keywords

    #abortionrights #authortalk #bookdiscussion #bookinterview #currentevents #democracydefense #enemiesdomestic #fictionwriting #inspirationalstories #johndedakis #journalismintegrity #larkchadwick #leadershiplessons #literaryconversation #mediaethics #novelistslife #podcastconversation #podcastguest #podcastinterview #podmatch #politicaldiscussion #politicalthriller #readingcommunity #socialjustice #storytellingpower #suspensethriller #thrillerauthor #truthandjustice #uspolitics #writerslife


    Want to be a guest on Poddin' My Noggin? Send C.K. Simms a message on PodMatch at ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1715119227867423c07672fbc⁠

    58 min

About The C.K. Simms Show

From the publisher's feed

In Loving Memory Of C.K. Simms (July 2, 1981 - April 29, 2026) 💙