Thecuriousmanspodcast

Matt Crawford speaks with Sally and Jonah Ismael about their book, The Night Blooming. Twin competitive Taekwondo athletes Sally and Jonah endured severe childhood psychological, emotional, and mental distress as they confronted their fears, doubts, pain, and chronic PTSD during the traumatic experience of abuse, bullying, and rejection they have encountered. All while they simply wanted to be part of a team and participate in the sport they loved, simply because of their race and religion. A true story of endurance, perseverance and inspiration, this is a book for all and can be a salve for those who suffer any type of adversity.

Matt Crawford speaks with author S.C Gwynne about his book, His Majesty's Airship: The Life and Death of the World's Largest Flying Machine. This is the tragic story of the British airship R-101 which went down in a hydrogen fireball in 1930, killing more people than died in the Hindenburg disaster seven years later. Why has such a story been largely forgotten? In His Majesty's Airship, historian S.C Gwynne brings us back in vivid detail to this tragedy and details what events led up to this moment of hubris. A cautionary tale that shows how we tend to make the same mistakes again and again for the same reasons. Gwynne will transport you back in time and raise you among the clouds in this hard to put down read. 

Matt Crawford speaks with authors, creators and producers Andrew Moskos and Pep Rosenfeld about their book, Boom Chicago Presents The 30 Most Important Years In Dutch History. What do Ted Lasso, Get Out, Late Night with Seth Meyers, 30 Rock, A Black Lady Sketch Show, Breaking Bad and Saturday Night Live, just to name a few have in common? They all feature writers, creators, directors or stars who got their start at Boom Chicago. Andrew and Pep discuss what made them start and American Improv show in Amsterdam 30 years ago, and created a comedic institution that continues to cultivate amazing talent.

Matt Crawford speaks with Dr. Stephen Furlich about his book, Sex Talk: How Biological Sex Influences Gender Communication Differences Throughout Lifes' Stages. Sex Talk can benefit all readers, from teens to senior citizens, when interacting with friends, families, and other relationships, along with helping to advance their careers through strategic communication. It precisely tracks how gender communication differences change as one's biology and physiology changes and shows how these changes occur throughout different stages of life. This is a thread through every aspect of our lives and care with which we receive, I highly recommend it.

Matt Crawford speaks with Thom Hartmann about his book, The Hidden History of American Democracy: Rediscovering Humanity's Ancient Way of Living. Hartmann presents a sweeping history of and searing analysis of American democracy, showing how democracy is the one form of governance most likely to produce peace and happiness among people. He offers a clear call to action and a set of solutions with road maps for individuals and communities to follow to create a safer, more just society and a more equitable and prosperous economy, ensuring democracy's survival.

Matt Crawford speaks with Rabbi Michael Strassfeld about his book, Judaism Disrupted: A Spiritual Manifesto for the 21st Century. This book is a call for individuals seeking a deeper connection with their faith. Rabbi Strassfeld urges us all to let goof outdated rituals and embrace a more open and modern approach to Judaism. While this is a book about Judaism, we discuss how this can relate to all religions and the issues they face, with the next generations steering away from organized religions writ large. A thought-provoking book no matter your beliefs.

Matt Crawford speaks with sculptor and author, Judith Peck about her book, Art and Social Interaction: A Guide For College Internships Serving Correctional, Rehabilitation, and Human Service Needs. This manual contains the information needed for human service institutions, liberal arts colleges, and community volunteers to present a program of creative visual arts in jails, psychiatric facilities, drug rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, shelters and facilities for youth in need. Students not only perform community service but gain unique personal understanding of the major domestic issues of our time- crime, mental illness, substance abuse, domestic violence and aging.

Matt Crawford speaks with author and retired MH-47E pilot Alan Mack about his book: Razor 03: A Night Stalker's Wars. Mack shares his behind-the-scenes perspective of the Horse Soldier's infill into Afghanistan. The hunt for Osama Bin Laden at Tora Bora and describes his shootdown during Operation Anaconda. Years later, he chased Bowe Bergdahl, rescued hostages in Iraq, and the U.S Navy Seal 'Lone Survivor' from the Kunar Valley. Mack also discusses the sacrifices he and his family made while serving this country and how they coped. A truly inspirational read that all should pick up.

Matt Crawford speaks with author Mary Harper about her book, The Sound of Her Voice: My Blind Parents' Story. An inspiring chronicle of a remarkable couple (both blind since childhood) who - against all odds- lived full and productive lives. Mario became the first blind graduate of Notre Dame Law School and was later elected a Judge of two different counties. Jane ran a household of four sighted children without assistance. Both born in the early 20th century before the ADA and many programs for assistance that we take for granted today. What this story is mostly about though is that of love, and love for each other. This is a beautiful book that is sure to inspire and warm your heart.

Matt Crawford speaks with author Ken Rusk about his book, Blue Collar Cash: Love Your Work, Secure Your Future, and Find Happiness for Life. This book lays out in straightforward and accessible ways a path to success and happiness that doesn't require a mortarboard and gown. White-collar jobs are being threatened by AI. Economists have estimated that at least 4/5's of the jobs created by the infrastructure bill and the broader economic plan would not require college degrees. Add in the Baby Boomer retirements, and this nation is primed for a blue-collar resurgence.