Mysterious Goings On

SEASON 14 PREMIERE Host and novelist J. Alexander "Alex" Greenwood shares his experience writing a story treatment for a film called 'Saharan Ice.' He dives into the collaborative process of creating the treatment with the film's veteran producer and explains how it serves as a blueprint for the screenplay. Alex guides you through the treatment, breaking down the film's components, including the main characters and a beat-by-beat overview of the key plot points. If you're curious about what goes into writing a screenplay, this episode is a great place to start, offering insights into a writer's first paid screenwriting gig. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts! Mentioned: One Last Moonbow; the story of Alex's first screenwriting gig. Skater Girl: the previous family film produced by 'Saharan Ice' producer Michael Pellico More about film treatments here. Want a free pdf of 'Saharan Ice'? Visit the show notes page here. The Mysterious Goings On Pod

Alex Greenwood explores the mental health dangers of social media, particularly during an election year. He discusses the double-edged sword of social media, the impact of excessive use on anxiety and depression, and the role of the 24-hour news cycle in exacerbating mental health issues. He also highlights the importance of embracing the Stoic philosophy of focusing on what can be controlled and cutting out excessive news and political consumption. It emphasizes the need to recognize and avoid clickbait and misinformation, and the responsibility of individuals in stopping the spread of false information. Learn more: Ways to avoid the spread of false info on social media Surgeon General Wants Warning Label for Social Media Too Much Political News Can Affect Your Health The Mysterious Goings On Podcast was selected by ⁠⁠Feedspot.com⁠⁠ as one of the Top 100 Book Podcasts on the web! Drop a buck in the tip jar⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠to gain access

In this conversation, Alex Greenwood interviews author DaVon & Greene about his background in creativity and storytelling, his journey through incarceration, and his path back to writing. He shares his experiences growing up in a creative household, being on movie sets, and receiving some tough feedback from Logan's Run producer Saul David. He discusses his transition into the world of drugs and crime, his time in jail, and the turning point that led him back to writing. DaVon & Greene also talks about his books, including 'Laredo Nuevo: The Rise of Acosta' and 'Paladin: Briscoe DeVall's Defender of House Le Fleur', and offers advice for aspiring writers. Want a FREE chapter? Visit the website: davonandgreene.com Buy the Book here. The Mysterious Goings On Podcast has just been selected by ⁠⁠Feedspot.com⁠⁠ as one of the Top 100 Book Podcasts on the web!Drop a buck in the tip jar⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠to gain access to ad

Mark Jonathan Harris, a renowned, three-time Oscar-winning filmmaker, author, and professor, discusses his latest book, Misfits, a collection of moving and inspiring stories that delve into the resilience of the human spirit. Mark also shares his background as a crime reporter and his transition into filmmaking and writing. Buy the book! Website: Markjharriswrites.com The Mysterious Goings On Podcast has just been selected by ⁠⁠Feedspot.com⁠⁠ as one of the Top 100 Book Podcasts on the web! Drop a buck in the tip jar⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠to gain access to ad-free, subscriber-only content for less than the price of a cup of coffee PER MONTH! $1.99 for no advertisements and subscriber-only content! Send us a Voice Message!⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Just click here⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠and give us your first name, city, and question or comment. Contact Alex ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠via e⁠m⁠ail ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠ Read and subscribe FREE to Alex's Newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠All the Fits That'

Dr. William J. Carl, a Greek scholar, award-winning screenwriter, and thriller author, discusses his transition from ministry to writing, the inspiration behind his novel Assassin's Manuscript, and his research process. He shares how he met real-life assassins and incorporated their stories into his book. The conversation also touches on the editing process, the possibility of turning the book into a series, and the importance of nuanced characters. Dr. Carl also shares his experience with Alex Haley and the impact he had on his life. Listen in! Buy the book here: https://amzn.to/4cmcevA Website: https://www.lecontepublishing.com/ Instagram—williamcarlauthorTikTok—@williamcarl21 The Mysterious Goings On Podcast has just been selected by ⁠Feedspot.com⁠ as one of the Top 100 Book Podcasts on the web! Drop a buck in the tip jar⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠to gain access to ad-free, subscriber-only content for less than the price of a cup of coffee PER MONTH! $1.

Listen in as Alex shares what to expect on. the last three *regular episodes of season 13--and when we will return for season 14! *There may be a few bonus episodes, too! Also, contact Alex via email today if you'd like to learn how you can advertise on the show. The Mysterious Goings On Podcast has just been selected by ⁠Feedspot.com⁠ as one of the Top 100 Book Podcasts on the web! Drop a buck in the tip jar⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠to gain access to ad-free, subscriber-only content for less than the price of a cup of coffee PER MONTH! $1.99 for no advertisements and subscriber-only content! Send us a Voice Message!⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Just click here⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠and give us your first name, city, and question or comment. Contact Alex ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠via e⁠m⁠ail ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠ Read and subscribe FREE to Alex's Newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠All the Fits That's News⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Visit Alex's ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠author website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Alex Greenwood on Medium: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://a-gree

Today's episode tackles a question of paramount concern for every parent, educator, and student: How are schools preparing your child for the unthinkable reality of an active shooter situation? And what protocols are in place to respond to such harrowing events? We are honored to welcome Daniel Dluzneski, a seasoned professional whose illustrious career with the U.S. Secret Service spans over two decades. Beginning his journey as a K-9 Technician alongside his trusted companion Korak, Daniel has navigated his way to a significant role within the Emergency Management Department of the Pinellas County Florida School System. In this capacity, Daniel has been instrumental in ensuring the safety of over 100,000 students across 140 schools. His seamless transition from the sphere of national security to the educational sector endows him with an invaluable perspective on the critical issue of school safety. Daniel is also the author of "The First FIVE Minutes," a comprehensive guide focusing on the

Today, Alex delves into the enigmatic worlds of neurosurgery and thriller writing with esteemed guest Dr. Gary Simonds. Dr. Simonds, a retired chief of neurosurgery and residency program director from the Karelian Clinic and the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, continues to shape future generations as a professor at the Virginia Tech School of Neuroscience. The discussion explores the complexity of the human brain and the intricacies of neurological connections, as well as the psychological aspects of being a neurosurgeon. Dr. Simonds also discusses the transition from his medical career to becoming an author and the themes of his medical psychological thriller, "Death's Pale Flag." Moreover, the conversation touches on the characteristics required to deliver difficult news to patients, the emotional toll on health professionals, and the importance of empathy in practice. WANT TO WATCH THE VIDEO? BECOME A SUBSCRIBER: ⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠to gain access to ad-free, subscriber-only c

Today's episode is going to be a home run! We are rejoined by Matt Stewart, an Emmy award-winning anchor and reporter at Fox 4 News in Kansas City, and author of "Unique Eats and Eateries of Kansas City." Today, he tells us about his newest work, "The Kansas City Royals: An Illustrated Timeline," an opulent and detailed account of the Kansas City Royals baseball team history. This beautiful book offers a captivating journey from the franchise's origin in 1969 to its stellar World Series triumphs, filled with rich visuals and a committed examination of the team's legacy. WANT TO WATCH THE VIDEO? BECOME A SUBSCRIBER: Click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠to gain access to ad-free, subscriber-only content for less than the price of a cup of coffee PER MONTH! $1.99 for no advertisements and subscriber-only content! Stewart shares insights into the Royals' past, explaining how the team received its name through a contest and why blue and white became their colors. He also expresses his long-standin

PAID SUBSCRIBER VIDEO! Today's episode is going to be a home run! We are rejoined by Matt Stewart, an Emmy award-winning anchor and reporter at Fox 4 News in Kansas City, and author of "⁠Unique Eats and Eateries of Kansas City⁠." Today, he tells us about his newest work, "⁠The Kansas City Royals: An Illustrated Timeline⁠," an opulent and detailed account of the Kansas City Royals baseball team history. This beautiful book offers a captivating journey from the franchise's origin in 1969 to its stellar World Series triumphs, filled with rich visuals and a committed examination of the team's legacy. Stewart shares insights into the Royals' past, explaining how the team received its name through a contest and why blue and white became their colors. He also expresses his long-standing fandom for the Royals, tracing back to 1987, and how that passion influenced his writing. Stewart also ponders the current state and future of baseball in America, questioning whether it still hol

In this captivating episode, we immerse ourselves in the atmospheric world of 1930s Pittsburgh with the dynamic literary duo, M.M. Downing and S.J. Waugh. Downing and Waugh discuss their middle-grade trilogy "The Adventures of the Flash Gang," where the lead character, a street orphan, and his diverse gang outwit pro-Nazi plots. Dubbed by host Alex Greenwood as "The Baker Street Irregulars meets Encyclopedia Brown," the book's setting provides a gritty, smoggy backdrop that effectively becomes a character in itself and resonates with the current political climate, drawing parallels with modern American politics. It's a book that will capture your middle grader's attention and may just delight the middle-grader in you. Listen in! “Delightfully Dickensian in spirit. Period events are woven seamlessly into this rollicking tale of friendship and fortitude. I challenge any reader not to fall in love with the histrionics and devil-may-care verve of Pearl Alice Clavell and her grease

On this brief episode, host Alex Greenwood takes the opportunity to make several announcements. He reflects on last week's episode featuring Linda Stewart Henley, the author of "Kate's War," the podcast's milestone 300th episode. LISTEN on ⁠SPOTIFY⁠, ⁠APPLE⁠, and WHEREVER YOU GET YOUR PODCASTS. Alex shares his personal excitement about returning to work in the higher education sector and teases upcoming episodes, including an interview with a neurosurgeon who wrote a thriller, a law enforcement veteran discussing school safety, and a conversation with a three-time Oscar-winning filmmaker who is also an author. He also announces fresh merchandise, including a Mysterious Goings On deluxe mug, available on the Bonfire merchandise page. Edit ImageBuy now from our merch store here. Love what you're hearing? Support us by subscribing for exclusive content and perks! For just a small monthly fee, you'll gain access to subscriber-only episodes, behind-the-scenes content, and more. Your s

We welcome guest Linda Stewart Henley, an accomplished novelist, artist, and retired college administrator. Linda discusses her third novel, "Kate's War," which is set to release on April 9, 2024. The book, inspired by her father's unpublished memoir and his heroic actions during World War II, explores the personal dimensions of war and the oft-untold stories of those who lived through such times. Set before World War II, "Kate's War" focuses on an ordinary family's experiences and a young woman's aspirations to become a singer amidst the turmoil of an impending war. LINKS: Pre-order/buy the book here. https://www.lindastewarthenleyauthor.com/ http://www.facebook.com/lindastewarthenley https://www.instagram.com/lindastewarthenley Love what you're hearing? Support us by subscribing for exclusive content and perks! For just a small monthly fee, you'll gain access to subscriber-only episodes, behind-the-scenes content, and more. Your support helps us keep bringin

Alex is joined by Peter Malone Elliott, a talented author, screenwriter, and developmental editor whose debut novel "Blue Ridge" features the innovative dual first-person narratives of identical twin brothers. Delving into Elliott's creative roots in Virginia's mountainous landscapes and his journey through the realms of writing and screenwriting, the conversation explores the inspirations behind his unique storytelling approach. "Blue Ridge" is not just a psychological thriller; it's a deep dive into complex family dynamics, enhanced by Elliott's screenwriting prowess. His transition from screenplay to film is exemplified in his recent project "Wired Shut," showcasing his versatility across mediums. With a second book in the works and a continued passion for both screenwriting and novel writing, Elliott's journey is a testament to the power of storytelling and the endless possibilities that lie ahead. Listen in! LINKS BUY THE BOOK here. BLUE RIDGE: A Ci

In this captivating episode, Alex sits down with the legendary Richard Sparks, a mastermind in comedy writing and entertainment, whose collaborations span icons like Placido Domingo, Rowan Atkinson, and John Cleese of Monty Python fame. Sparks delves into his latest foray into fantasy fiction with "New Rock, New Role," a novel drawing from his passion for online gaming and depicting a retired teacher's adventurous quest for self-discovery in the digital gaming world. Reflecting on a storied career that catalyzed Rowan Atkinson’s rise with the unforgettable schoolmaster sketch, Sparks echoes Chekhov in celebrating the unique synergy between writer and actor. He reminisces about the golden age of British comedy, his camaraderie with Douglas Adams, and the undying quest for originality in storytelling. Sharing his journey from poker to online role-playing games, Sparks reveals how gaming conventions and player interactions enrich his narratives, underscoring his fulfillment in the fantasy genre.

Author Dennis A. Feece discusses his novel "Love, Pride & Murder," a story steeped in the depths of human psychology and touched by biblical influence and personal experience. He explains how he combined elements of philosophy, theology, and classic mystery to create a novel that stands out in its genre. We also examine the challenges of writing in the first person while maintaining a compelling narrative and surprise endings. References are made to notable authors like Robert B. Parker, Raymond Chandler, and Dash Hammett, along with discussions on characters such as Nick and Nora Charles and the gritty reimagining of Perry Mason. Buy the Book here. Mentions: DennisAFeece.com Dashiell Hammett books Kerry Greenwood books Robert B. Parker books Raymond Chandler books Love what you're hearing? Support us by subscribing for exclusive content and perks! For just a small monthly fee, you'll gain access to subscriber-only episodes, behind-the-scenes content, and more. Your suppor

Today we open up to unconventional themes as we explore the romantic and spiritual dimensions of literature with guest HL Howard. The author introduces his book, "A Journey Must Be Taken: Playlist," which is deeply influenced by his personal experiences, including his corporate life during the COVID-19 pandemic. The story weaves a compelling narrative of a transformative love affair with a significant age difference, urging listeners to reflect on fate and relationships. Howard's book is a melange of Eastern philosophy and Western spirituality, examining the concept of love without boundaries through ancient wisdom. His novel uniquely incorporates a musical playlist as a narrative device, emphasizing the power of music to transcend cultural barriers and connect people across space and time, further enriched by tarot readings that complement the storytelling. Throughout the conversation, Howard shares his thoughts on the human mind's quest for connections and the relevance of tarot and orac

We explore the fascinating transition of Laurie Stevens, a renowned novelist, screenwriter, and playwright known for her award-winning psychological suspense series, as she ventures into the realm of science fiction and fantasy with her latest work, THE RETURN. Stevens discusses the bold move of shifting genres, exploring how artificial intelligence clashes with human consciousness. Inspired by the biblical story of Adam and Eve, this new narrative examines the allure of temptation and the implications of dependence on artificial intelligence. We contemplate the potential consequences of substituting AI for interpersonal relationships and explore the significance of verisimilitude and character development. Join us for this thoughtful dialogue on storytelling's evolution amidst technological advancements and the enduring power of the human spirit. WEBSITE: https://lauriestevensbooks.com BUY THE BOOK HERE. Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/lauriestevensbooks X. @lauriestevens1 https://twitter.com/Lauri

In this episode of "Mysterious Goings On," we welcome Daphne Wright, a debut author who traverses the transition from healthcare professional to novelist, unveiling her debut novel ON LOVE AND DEATH AND BELONGING. The book epitomizes the resilience of the human spirit amidst the trials of life's final stages. Daphne shares insights into her nursing background, touching on confronting ALS and fostering connections to combat loneliness. We also discuss the potential pressures of authoring subsequent books, the reception of her characters by readers, and the intersections of her own identity with her storytelling. Daphne’s reflections offer an authentic glimpse into the mind of a storyteller carving out her space in the literary world. Listen in! Links: https://daphneleoniewright.com/  https://www.instagram.com/daphnelwright/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100073059253142 Buy the book here. The Healing Power of Friendship ++++ Drop a buck in the tip jar⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠

Alex has an important update about the show. --- Drop a buck in the tip jar⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ ⁠⁠to gain access to ad-free, subscriber-only content for less than the price of a cup of coffee PER MONTH! $1.99 for no advertisements and subscriber-only content! Send Alex a Voice Message!⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Just click here⁠⁠ ⁠⁠and give us your first name, city, and question or comment. Contact Alex ⁠⁠⁠⁠via email here⁠⁠⁠⁠. Read and subscribe FREE to Alex's Newsletter, ⁠⁠⁠All the Fits That's News⁠⁠⁠. Visit Alex's ⁠⁠author website⁠⁠. Alex Greenwood on Medium: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://a-greenwood.medium.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (Subscription) Follow him on X/Twitter:  ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@A_Greenwood⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow him on Threads: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.threads.net/@alexginkc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Catch Alex's True Crime Show: GOING TO KILLING CITY. Listen on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and wherever you get your pods! Enjoy this episode? Please leave us a review on your podcast platform of choice, and don&