By Dr. Carole Blueweiss
5
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The podcast currently has 45 episodes available.
Sheila Nevins, a prominent documentary filmmaker and best-selling author, discusses her experiences with her son's Tourette syndrome and speaks about the broader themes of aging, disability, and authenticity. Through personal stories and reflections, she sheds light on often misunderstood topics, emphasizing the importance of genuine representation over sensationalism. With humor and candor, Sheila shares her journey of seeking answers and navigating the complexities of life. Her commitment to storytelling is marked by a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths, making for a compelling and insightful conversation. Sheila shares a wealth of wisdom for us all.
About Sheila NevinsSheila Nevins is an American television producer and former head of MTV Documentary Films division of MTV Entertainment Studios. Previously, Nevins was the President of HBO Documentary Films. She has produced over 1,000 documentary films for HBO and is one of the most influential people in documentary filmmaking. She has worked on productions that have been recognized with 35 News and Documentary Emmy Awards, 42 Peabody Awards, and 26 Academy Awards. Nevins has won 31 individual Primetime Emmy Awards, more than any other person. The film, I Have Tourette's but Tourette's Doen't Have Me, won an Emmy.
Sheila's IMDB page
From This EpisodeIn this episode, I talk with Jay Silverman, an award-winning filmmaker known for his emotionally resonant work. Jay discusses his journey into feature filmmaking, which began with "Girl on the Edge," a deeply personal film inspired by his daughter's recovery through equine therapy. His latest film, "Camera," is another heartfelt project influenced by his experiences as a father of a daughter with impaired speech. Jay shares how his work has become a vehicle for expressing the lessons and wisdom he's gained from these personal experiences, driven by a passion to touch others through his storytelling.
About Jay SilvermanFor over 40 years, Jay Silverman has excelled as a leading Director, Producer, and Photographer specializing in award-winning films, television, digital, and print campaigns.
Jay’s narrative films have been awarded numerous Best Feature and Audience Awards at festivals across the country. His current dramatic feature "Camera", stars Golden Globe, Emmy, and Grammy Award Winner Beau Bridges, Jessica Parker Kennedy, Scotty Tovar, Bruce Davison, and Miguel Gabriel. It will be released on Amazon and iTunes on July 23rd, 2024. His first was the multi-award-winning dramatic feature “Girl on the Edge”, starring Peter Coyote, Taylor Spreitler, Mackenzie Phillips, Elizabeth Peňa, Gil Bellows, Rex Lee, Amy Davidson, and Amy Price Francis that premiered on Showtime. His second is the charming romantic comedy “Off the Menu” starring Dania Ramirez, Tony Award Winner Santino Fontana, Makenzie Moss, and Maria Conchita Alonso, which premiered on HBO & Amazon. His third is the true story drama “Saving Paradise” starring William Moseley, Johnna Braddy, Mary Pat Gleason, Bill Cobbs, Paul Dooley, and James Eckhouse currently on Tubi and Amazon.
Jay Silverman Productions: Jay Silverman Production’s mission is to use the power of storytelling to inspire and entertain with a message that is uplifting for society. As an independently owned and operated entertainment production company that develops and produces independent films and television shows, we believe we have an important responsibility to use storytelling to make the world a better place.
Watch Camera: https://linktr.ee/camerathemovie
From This Episode
Noah, my ATV guide in Alaska, joins me on this episode of Wisdom Shared. Last season, we heard from Noah's mom, Melissa, who talked about her sobriety journey. In this discussion, Noah courageously shares his difficult journey with pills. He nearly died. He offers advice, hope, and solidarity to others facing similar struggles. His powerful narrative underscores the transformative power of sharing personal experiences in the hopes of helping others.
ResourcesNational Harm Reduction Coalition
https://www.cdc.gov/opioids/basics/fentanyl.html:
https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/prevention/index.html
Fentanyl Test Strips
Find Narcan Near You
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder, SAMHSA's (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP (4357), (also known as the Treatment Referral Routing Service) or TTY: 1-800-487-4889 is a confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year, information service, in English and Spanish, for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders. This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations. Callers can also order free publications and other information. You can also visit https://www.samhsa.gov.
Related Episodes of Wisdom SharedAddiction to Sobriety: A Mother's Journey: Noah's mom shares her own addiction story
Anonymous Sister
Overdose Awareness: A Sister's Tribute
Retired FBI Agent Reflects On Opioid Crisis
Sharon "Rocky" Roggio is my special guest - the producer and director of the award-winning documentary "1946: The Mistranslation that Shifted Culture." This film explores the profound impact of a mistaken biblical translation of the word "homosexual" and its consequences on culture, religion, and the LGBTQ community. Rocky shares her personal journey as a Christian lesbian, discussing her efforts to seek acceptance and understanding from her father, a church pastor. Through these conversations, listeners gain insight into Rocky's experiences and the broader implications of this pivotal mistranslation.
About Sharon "Rocky" Roggio1946’s director, Sharon “Rocky” Roggio is no stranger to the implications of a life completely affected by the predominant modern interpretations of the Bible. Growing up lesbian in a Christian household, with a pastor for a father, has prepared her for this expansive undertaking. Rocky’s experience, of anti-gay biblical teachings, has been incredibly traumatic. She is a strong voice, among the growing chorus of LGBTQIA+ Christians who want to cure the world of this damaging narrative. Once Roggio learned of Kathy and Ed’s work, she was compelled to tell this story. This film is part of her attempts to reconcile a relationship with her family and begin to heal.
Sharon “Rocky” Roggio is an multi award-winning film producer and director living in Los Angeles, CA. She has been a member of three IATSE unions nationwide and has a Bachelor’s degree in Communications with a focus in Radio, Television and Film Her background includes large budget physical production on award winning shows and films such as House of Cards, Parks and Recreation, With Bob and David, Whip It and Red Dawn. In 2016, Roggio associate produced and production designed GOOK, a feature film that premiered at Sundance in 2017 and Won the Audience Award in the Next Category. In 2018 when she heard about the 1946 mistranslation in the Bible, Roggio immediately quit all her other endeavors and has focused all her time, money, and resources on producing and creating this documentary. 1946 is Roggio’s directorial debut.
About 1946: The Mistranslation that Shifted Culture1946: The Mistranslation That Shifted Culture is a feature documentary that follows the story of tireless researchers who trace the origins of the anti-gay movement among Christians to a grave mistranslation of the Bible in 1946. It chronicles the discovery of never-before-seen archives at Yale University which unveil astonishing new revelations, and casts significant doubt on any biblical basis for LGBTQIA+ prejudice. Featuring commentary from prominent scholars as well as opposing pastors, including the personal stories of the film’s creators, 1946 is at once challenging, enlightening, and inspiring.
Watch the trailer.
Watch the full feature film today.
https://www.1946themovie.com/
1946 Roadtrip Across America - We are THRILLED to announce our plan to utilize the award-winning documentary, 1946: The Mistranslation That Shifted Culture, as a tool for civic engagement and to drive voter registration for the 2024 election. Our mission is to organize 14 free public conferences in US cities impacted by extremist ideologies. The primary objective of these assemblies is to activate the audience to vote as we advocate for the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community, standing up for democracy and promoting equality for everyone. We will discuss the power of civic engagement to stop evangelical and legislative domination and provide people with a sustainable narrative of compassion founded on research, history, and facts. AND - We will SHOW THE FILM - followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers and director Sharon Roggio!
From This EpisodeIn this conversation with filmmaker and self-described Renaissance Man Stewart Schulman, we discuss his multifaceted career and his collaborations with John Bayless, highlighting projects like One Hand One Heart and the award-winning feature documentary Left Alone Rhapsody: The Musical Memoir of Pianist John Bayless. Schulman shares Bayless' life from childhood illness and genius piano playing at age four to Julliard as Leonard Bernstein's protege; from his Baptist upbringing to conversion to Judaism; and from playing the piano around the world as a Steinway then Yamaha artist with two hands to his re-invented life post-stroke re-learning to play the piano with his non-dominant left hand. Stewart's stories about his life and the filmmaking process are delightfully accented by John's music and one-man show, One Hand One Heart. I hope this episode (and John Bayless episode!) inspires you to see the fabulous film, Left Alone Rhapsody.
About Stewart SchulmanI love stories. Watching them. Telling them. They’re journeys that open our minds—our hearts—and show us new ways of thinking.
I aim for my work to be entertaining and socially relevant—challenging perceptions and inspiring ‘change’. It’s how we grow.
People I work with have called me a “Renaissance Man”—because I’ve explored many different creative mediums to broaden my skills as a writer, director and producer. They also tell me I bring an even-keeled temperament to the table, keep my work environments professional and enjoyable, and get the job done right.
Contact me with questions. I look forward to working with you in the future.
https://www.stewartschulman.com/
Act Two MediaWorks
From This EpisodeLeft Alone Rhapsody: The Musical Memoir of Pianist John Bayless
John Bayless – One Hand One Heart: My Life & My Music This new ‘one-man-one-hand only’ play—with music by Gershwin, Bernstein, Puccini, Mancini, Rachmaninoff, Rodgers, Legrand and the world-renowned concert pianist, John Bayless, himself—takes audiences on the journey of John’s remarkable life. John talks openly about his highs and lows, and his determination to create a second act for himself as an artist.
The play begins with a 4-year-old John becoming a musical prodigy in his hometown of Borger, Texas, which sets him on a life-long adventure and a 30-year career as a concert pianist, which is suddenly halted by a debilitating stroke. John shares the "hell" he faced, post-stroke, trying desperately to journey back to life to be an artist in a new way. His spiritual awakening led him to his unbelievable comeback, concertizing with his left hand all alone! This inspiring one-man show evokes laughter and tears, showcasing John’s astonishing musicianship, as he shares his amazing life-story.
Music featured in the episode:
Heidi Latsky Dance
My special guest for this episode is pianist John Bayless, whose story is featured in the incredible documentary Left Alone Rhapsody: The Musical Memoir of Pianist John Bayless. In our conversation, John reflects on life before and after his stroke. Post-stroke, John's resilience shines through as he embarks on a remarkable path of self-recovery and discovery. Teaching himself to play with just his left hand, he defied the odds and embraced a new chapter. John's story and music make this episode a must-listen, just as the documentary is a must-watch.
About John BaylessJohn Bayless is an internationally renowned concert pianist, composer, improviser, and prolific recording artist. A protégé of Leonard Bernstein and a Yamaha artist, John is a crossover artist known for how he blends classical training and piano technique with popular music in imaginative improvisations. Despite a debilitating stroke halting his illustrious 30-year career, John refused to surrender. Instead, he embarked on a second act, teaching himself to play with just his left hand. This story is brilliantly shared in Stewart Schulman's documentary Left Alone Rhapsody: The Musical Memoir of Pianist John Bayless.
From This EpisodeLeft Alone Rhapsody: The Musical Memoir of Pianist John Bayless
The John Bayless Fund for Brain Research
Yamaha's Disklavier
Music featured in the episode:
In this poignant episode, Jacob Moench shares the challenges and joys of parenting his son Samuel, who has epilepsy and autism. The episode explores how Jacob and his wife support each other and prioritize time for their other children. Jacob also talks about his company, which offers genetic testing for preventative illness, and we discuss the ethical considerations surrounding the use of DNA analysis for family planning. Despite the challenges, Jacob reflects on the profound impact Samuel has had on their lives, considering him an enormous blessing. This episode offers a powerful exploration of the unique challenges and love that characterize Jacob's journey as a parent of a child with special needs.
About Jacob MoenchJacob Moench is an entrepreneur in the medical industry devoted to preventative genetic testing. He is a devoted husband to his wife of 12 years. He and his wife have four beautiful children, including their oldest, Samuel, who has Autism and Epilepsy. Jacob enjoys playing with his children, basketball, hiking, piano, cooking, and creative writing.
Jacob's blog: https://fathertospecialneeds.blogspot.com/
Jacob's business: https://physiogenomic.com/
Contact Jacob
From This EpisodeFinding Cooper's Voice
Forever Boy: A Mother's Memoir of Autism and Finding Joy
Mark Rober's Video about his autistic son
Steele's Army - Facebook page of an epilepsy family that Jacob recommends
In this episode, Lynn Greenberg and her son Jonathan, co-authors of Robby the Dyslexic Taxi and the Airport Adventure, share insights into Jon's journey with dyslexia. Emphasizing the transformative impact of education post-diagnosis, they discuss the power of creativity and the hidden gifts of neurodiversity. Jon, who views dyslexia as a superpower, aims, along with his mother, to inspire and empower neurodiverse children through their storytelling. This episode is a valuable resource for parents and teachers, offering insights and guidance for a more inclusive and understanding approach.
For the visually-minded who prefer to listen and read or for those who need closed captioning, watch the transcript video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/qYBVQJqdfo8
From This EpisodeLynn Greenberg is the happiest wife, mom, and grandma. A very retired attorney who loves to cook, exercise, and read, she has seen how positivity with feelings and differences can allow children to grow into happy, productive adults. During COVID-19, when many families were living together with an abundance of unscheduled free time, Lynn and her son Jonathan, who has dyslexia, began to work on the concepts and ideas for Robby. As ideas developed, they became increasingly invested in the character, his story, and the impact this endeavor could have on others.
Born with dyslexia, Jonathan Greenberg could not read and write like many other children his age. So, instead of giving in to frustration, Jonathan used his struggle as a catalyst for creativity, expressing his ideas through art. Having overcome his learning difficulty, Jonathan has fallen in love with reading. Robby the Dyslexic Taxi And The Airport Adventure exemplify Jonathan’s passion for writing and illustration. Together with Lynn, his mother, and his writing partner, they are already thinking of other stories featuring neurodiverse characters that complement this book.
Facebook: Creative Cab Co.
Instagram: @creativecabcompany
Website: robbythetaxi.com
Buy the Book:Robby the Dyslexic Taxi and the Airport Adventure on Amazon
Robby the Dyslexic Taxi and the Airport Adventure on Bookshop.org
Join me as I welcome back Amy and her daughter, Lizzie, for an insightful discussion. In this episode, we delve into Lizzie's harrowing encounter with toxic shock syndrome (TSS), exploring the severe implications and her journey to recovery. Amy shares the critical moments that led to her life-saving discovery of Lizzie's condition and her quick response. We also discuss Lizzie's candid reflections on managing her menstrual health post-TSS, the challenges she faced during her recovery, and the significant changes in her life post-illness, including the recommendation to avoid tampon use. This episode serves as an eye-opener on the crucial aspects of TSS and menstrual health awareness.
For the visually-minded who prefer to listen and read or for those who need closed captioning, watch the transcript video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/F_rYxdV3Qwc
ResourcesJoin us in a touching conversation with Amy and her daughter Lizzie as they share their experiences with 18-year-old Mathew, who was diagnosed with autism. Amy discusses the challenges of raising Mathew, including how eliminating certain food dyes helped reduce his aggressive behavior. Lizzie shares insights on being an older sister to a sibling with autism, highlighting the unique bond they share. This episode offers a candid look into a family's journey with autism, filled with challenges, love, and resilience.
For the visually-minded who prefer to listen and read or for those who need closed captioning, watch the transcript video here: https://youtu.be/NLxFbGl-0vY
ResourcesThe podcast currently has 45 episodes available.