Episodes

7 hours ago
7 hours ago
Show synopsis: Welcome to "The Art and Science of Difficult Conversations," the podcast that takes you on a transformative journey through the world of interpersonal communication. Join us as we explore the delicate dance of dialogue, where we roleplay various scenarios, dissect how not to handle difficult conversations, and provide expert guidance on how to navigate them with finesse. In each episode, we'll dive into real-life situations, from workplace conflicts to personal disputes, and showcase the pitfalls of miscommunication. We will demonstrate how not to approach these challenges, illustrating common mistakes we all make. Learn with us as we uncover the strategies, techniques, and insights that empower you to approach difficult conversations with confidence and compassion. Tune in to "The Art and Science of Difficult Conversations" and transform your interactions for the better. Because when we communicate better, we live better.
Show Notes:
Is it possible to conduct layoffs in a way that’s respectful and compassionate?
According to Summer, there definitely is.In this week’s episode, Lucie and Chris interview Summer Miller, an HR consultant who’s focused on helping business navigate people-centered change. Through both her own personal experience and her work, she helps us understand:- Why the layoff conversations often seems too scripted and impersonal- How to manage risk while still being human- The importance of transparency and treating employees like grown ups- How to think about supporting employees through the transition- How to manage your own emotions if you’re the one delivering the bad newsDr. Summer Miller is the CEO of SDM Integrative Consulting, where she helps businesses navigate change and growth without leaving people behind. Her approach is to help leaders integrate people-centered practices so their employees want to be part of the future they are building. As an advisor, educator, speaker, and facilitator, Summer works with people to build the capabilities needed for long-term success. She brings over 25 years of experience, including executive positions in HR, change, and transformation at U.S. Bank, and more recent work with small to mid-market businesses.Summer holds a doctorate in organizational leadership and a master’s in organizational and professional communication. She is an educator at heart and teaches master’s courses through the University of Minnesota and the University of Denver. She also serves on the boards of Joy Collaborative, How To Be Second, and American Indian OIC. She and her husband Jason have four school-age and three adult children and enjoy spending time creating community and connection as newer Minnesotans.
Apple Podcasts Link For Show
Contact Summer:Linkedin – https://www.linkedin.com/in/summermiller/Website – https://www.sdmintegrativeconsulting.com
Contact Chris and LucieCheck out the Mastering Difficult Conversations Course https://myleadershippotential.com/master-difficult-conversations-how-to/Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/tas.difficultconvosYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TAS.difficultconversationsEmail – tas.difficultconversations@gmail.comChris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhcLucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova

Wednesday Jul 09, 2025
Smarticle Presents - Backward Beats - Nick of Time by Bonnie Raitt
Wednesday Jul 09, 2025
Wednesday Jul 09, 2025
In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl dive into Bonnie Raitt’s Nick of Time, a landmark album that was her breakthrough after years in the industry. They explore the album’s unique blend of blues, country, folk, and soft rock, discuss the impact of its production, and highlight some of its most compelling musical moments. Along the way, they touch on Bonnie Raitt’s career resilience, her Scottish ancestry (including a chilling ghost story), and her influence on modern Americana.
Key Points
Bonnie Raitt’s Career Arc – How *Nick of Time marked her mainstream breakthrough after a decade of persistence.
*Production & Sound – The album features three distinct production styles, from polished soft rock to raw, intimate blues.
Musical Deep Dives* – Dan breaks down the harmonic sophistication of the title track and how the arrangement reinforces the song’s storytelling.
The Mystery of the 500 List – Dan and Carl debate why Nick of Time made Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums list, while Luck of the Draw, her more commercially successful follow-up, did not.
Debora Harry singing Duke Ellington's Prelude to a Kiss
Annie Lennox singing Cole Porter's Every Time We Say Goodbye
Music Referenced
Luck of the Draw by Bonnie Raitt
Fleetwood Mac
Music by 311
Homebrew by 311
311 (The Blue Album) by 311
Down by 311
All Mixed Up by 311
Stop This Train by John Mayer
Shania Twain
I Can't Go for That by Daryl Hall & John Oates
Take Me to the River by Talking Heads
Werewolves of London by Warren Zevon
All Summer Long by Kid Rock
Brothers in Arms by Dire Straits
David Crosby
Graham Nash
Family Dinner - Volume 1 by Snarky Puppy
Family Dinner - Volume 2 by Snarky Puppy
Something by Snarky Puppy
Lalah Hathaway
On the Road Again by Willie Nelson
Turn the Page by Bob Seger
Turn the Page by Metallica
Herbie Hancock
Prelude to a Kiss by Duke Ellington
Walking on Broken Glass by Annie Lennox
Here Comes the Rain Again by The Eurythmics
Sting
Jacob Collier
Web: https://backwardsbeatspodcast.podbean.com I
nstagram: https://www.instagram.com/backwardsbeatspodcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@backwardsbeatspodcast
BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/backwardsbeats.bsky.social

Wednesday Jul 02, 2025
Wednesday Jul 02, 2025
Show overview: We’re a podcast that covers all things paranormal. Aliens, ghosts, cryptids, conspiracies. All things with real, verifiable stories. Not creepypastas or fiction. We do a weekly deep dive on a different topic.
Aliens, ghosts, government cover-ups, and that weird stuff your neighbor swears happened in the woods. This isn’t your grandma’s bedtime story, unless your grandma was into cryptids and chaos. Welcome to Paranormal Directive 13, your weekly trip down the rabbit hole of WTF.
Episode Description: #6 Dover Demon: Alien, Cryptid, or Hoax? The Massachusetts Mystery
In April 1977, three teenagers in the quiet town of Dover, Massachusetts reported seeing something… unnatural. Pale, hairless, with glowing eyes and a head too big for its body. The creature would later be known as the Dover Demon. But what exactly did they see?
In this episode of Paranormal Directive 13, we dig deep into one of New England’s weirdest cryptid encounters. Was it an alien? A government experiment? A local hoax that got out of hand? Or something stranger that still lurks in the woods today?
Join us as we unravel witness testimonies, sift through local lore, and try to make sense of a mystery that’s remained unsolved for nearly 50 years.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/paranormal-directive-13/id1813047996
https://linktr.ee/ParanormalDirective13
paranormaldirective13@gmail.com
#paranormaldirective13 #smarticlepodcast #smarticle #smarticlepresents

Wednesday Jul 02, 2025
Smarticle - Smarticle Presents Trailer
Wednesday Jul 02, 2025
Wednesday Jul 02, 2025
In this episode, the hosts of Smarticle announce their return after a hiatus due to involvement in other major projects. They express their ongoing passion for the podcast and reveal an initiative to promote diverse and unique podcasts from various subgenres like true crime, supernatural stories, and expatriate life. By engaging with podcast creators from subreddits, they plan to introduce a new podcast each week to their audience for the next six months. The hosts encourage listeners to spread the word, give feedback, and suggest other podcasts worth promoting. The aim is to help uncover hidden gems in the vast world of over 8 million podcasts.
00:00 Welcome Back to Smarticle!
00:37 Introducing New Podcasts to Smarticle Land
02:09 How You Can Get Involved
02:22 Our Commitment to Podcasting
02:46 Stay Tuned and Spread the Word
smarticlepodcast@gmail.com
#smarticlepodcast #smarticle #smarticlepresents @Smarticleshow @BDDoble @larryolson threads.net/@smarticleshow @brand.dobes The Smarticle Podcast
https://www.smarticlepodcast.com/

Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
Smarticle - Chris Marchand and The Wall of Silence - Part 2
Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
In this episode, the hosts continue their conversation with Chris Marchand, the creator of the Wall of Silence podcast that highlights stories of abuse within the Anglican Church of North America (ACNA). The episode begins with powerful words from Kelly Goewey, criticizing the church's handling of abuse allegations. The discussion explores the complexities and failures of institutional processes, the psychological impact on victims and whistleblowers, and the broader cultural issues within the church. Chris shares his personal struggles, the backlash he has faced, and his ongoing commitment to advocating for abuse survivors. This candid conversation aims to spark critical reflection within religious communities about how they handle abuse
allegations and support victims.
00:00 Introduction: What Would Jesus Do?
01:03 The Complexity of ACNA Processes
01:50 Personal Experience with Institutional Inaction
02:24 The Solar System Analogy
02:55 Jesus' Teachings and ACNA's Failures
03:35 Introduction to the Podcast and Chris Marchand
04:08 Understanding Victims and Church Inaction
06:12 The Culture Wars in the Church
07:40 The Psychology of Church Reactions
08:55 Chris Marchand's Personal Struggles
12:33 The Role of Media and Public Perception
14:58 ACNA Too: Goals and Misconceptions
17:51 Chris Marchand's Faith and Final Thoughts
smarticlepodcast@gmail.com
@Smarticleshow @BDDoble @larryolson threads.net/@smarticleshow @brand.dobes The Smarticle Podcast
https://www.smarticlepodcast.com/
#chrismarchand #thewallofsilencepodcast #thewallofsilence #smarticlepodcast #ACNAToo #ACNA

Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
In this episode, hosts Larry and Brandon interview Chris Marchand, an Anglican priest and podcaster, to discuss his podcast 'Wall of Silence,' which tackles sexual abuse within the ACNA (Anglican Church of North America). The conversation delves into the origins and purpose of the podcast, abuse in church settings, and the challenges faced by victims and advocates when addressing such issues. The episode also touches on the broader cultural implications and the resistance often encountered when trying to bring these dark truths to light.
00:00 Introduction to Chris Marchand
00:43 The Wall of Silence Podcast
01:03 Five Seconds of Silence
01:40 Background on the ACNA
02:36 Starting the Wall of Silence
04:02 Challenges in Addressing Abuse
09:13 Personal Reflections and Conflicts
13:01 Concluding Remarks and Next Episode Preview
smarticlepodcast@gmail.com
@Smarticleshow @BDDoble @larryolson threads.net/@smarticleshow @brand.dobes The Smarticle Podcast
https://www.smarticlepodcast.com/
#chrismarchand #thewallofsilencepodcast #thewallofsilence #smarticlepodcast #ACNAToo #ACNA

Wednesday Mar 19, 2025
Wednesday Mar 19, 2025
In this episode, Brandon hosts Brian Watson, a retired IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent with 28 years of experience in federal law enforcement. Brian shares his background and current role with the nonprofit ROSE (Resources Outreach to Safeguard the Elderly), where he focuses on fraud prevention for older adults. They discuss the evolving nature of scams, how seniors are targeted due to their accumulated wealth, and provide practical advice on recognizing and preventing scams. Real-life examples of scams and the emotional and financial toll on victims underscore the importance of vigilance and proactive measures. The episode highlights the importance of community and support networks in safeguarding vulnerable populations from financial predators.
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
01:13 Brian Watson's Background
02:13 Focus on Digital and Online Scams
03:09 Scams Targeting Older Americans
07:04 The Evolution of Scams
10:05 Common Scams and How They Work
12:24 Advice for Older Adults
15:45 Emotional and Financial Consequences
21:47 Prevention and Support Resources
26:29 Real-Life Scam Stories
30:23 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
R.O.S.E Advocacy Group
smarticlepodcast@gmail.com
@Smarticleshow @BDDoble @larryolson threads.net/@smarticleshow @brand.dobes The Smarticle Podcast
https://www.smarticlepodcast.com/
#brianwatson #roseadvocasy #aarp #financialcrimes #cammingtheelderly #olderamericans #facebookscams #scams #onlinescams #smarticlescams #directaccessscams #smarticlepodcast

Wednesday Mar 12, 2025
Wednesday Mar 12, 2025
In this episode of the Smarticle Scams podcast, Brandon welcomes Intel analyst Paul Raffile to discuss his extensive work in fighting financial sextortion. Raffile shares his background in tracking online threats and details how financial sextortion scams have evolved to predominantly target males aged 14-17 years old. He explains the methods these criminals use to coerce victims and the psychological impacts on young people, including devastating cases leading to suicides. Raphael also examines the roles of social media platforms and payment services, like Cash App, in perpetuating these scams and their responsibility in combating them. He highlights the importance of awareness and offers resources and steps both parents and policymakers can take to protect children from becoming victims. The episode emphasizes the need for substantial action from social media companies and legislative bodies to curb the growing threat of financial sextortion that endangers children's lives globally.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
01:44 Understanding Financial Sextortion
04:49 The Tactics of Sextortion Scammers
09:12 The Role of Social Media in Sextortion
15:01 Impact on Victims and Families
19:36 Efforts to Combat Sextortion
26:18 Call to Action and Resources
27:39 Paul's Motivation and Final Thoughts
smarticlepodcast@gmail.com
FBI - Sextortion
National Center For Missing and Exploited Kids
Canadian Center For Child Protection
@Smarticleshow @BDDoble @larryolson threads.net/@smarticleshow @brand.dobes The Smarticle Podcast
https://www.smarticlepodcast.com/
#paulraffile #yahooboys #sextortion #financialcrimes #financialsextortion #cashapp #facebookscams #scams #onlinescams #smarticlescams #coinbase #smarticlepodcast

Wednesday Mar 05, 2025
Smarticle - Smarticle Scams - Pig Butchering Part Two - The Butchered
Wednesday Mar 05, 2025
Wednesday Mar 05, 2025
In this episode of the Smarticle Podcast we delve into the alarming 'Pig Butchering' scam, a sophisticated fraud scheme originating in China and spreading across Southeast Asia. Brandon discusses previous incidents, including a significant case involving Shan Hanes, the CEO of a small Kansas bank who was implicated in this scam and embezzled $47 million. The episode features interviews with two victims of the scam, Troy Gauchenour and PJ Jenkins. Troy shares his journey of being deceived through a crypto mining scheme, while PJ, a retired law enforcement officer from New Jersey, details how he got entangled in a similar scam through a dating website. Both victims emphasize the psychological and financial toll of the scam and underline the necessity for public awareness and stronger regulation. Throughout, the episode highlights the intricacy of these scams, the global network behind them, and the urgent need for greater accountability and preventative measures.
00:00 Introduction to Common Scams
01:05 The Pig Butchering Scam Explained
01:15 The Case of Shane Haines
02:43 Impact on Victims and Society
04:05 Real Stories from Victims
04:38 Troy Gau's Experience
05:47 How the Scam Unfolded
14:56 The Role of Cryptocurrency
18:14 Falling for the Scam
23:30 Aftermath and Seeking Help
30:16 Joining the Fight Against Scams
33:04 Understanding Black Yu and White Yu
33:19 The Role of Social Media in Scam Awareness
33:54 Personal Encounters with Scammers
34:40 Law Enforcement and Scam Prevention
35:07 The Reality of Modern Scams
35:50 Misconceptions About Scam Victims
36:12 Targeting the Elderly
36:54 Interview with PJ Jenkins: Law Enforcement Insights
37:54 PJ's Personal Scam Experience
38:57 The Mechanics of the Scam
53:32 The Aftermath and Psychological Impact
57:46 The Need for Awareness and Regulation
01:04:57 Final Thoughts and Call to Action
smarticlepodcast@gmail.com
Pig Butchering Scams Go Hi Tech
An ex-cop fell for Alice. Then he fell for her $66 million crypto scam.
@Smarticleshow @BDDoble @larryolson threads.net/@smarticleshow @brand.dobes The Smarticle Podcast
https://www.smarticlepodcast.com/
#troygochenour #pjjenkins #operationshamrock #cryptocurrency #pigbutcheringscam #pigbutchering #romancescams #scams #onlinescams #smarticlescams #coinbase #smarticlepodcast

Wednesday Feb 26, 2025
Wednesday Feb 26, 2025
In this episode of the Smarticle podcast, Brandon introduces Erin West, a former Deputy District Attorney and founder of Operation Shamrock, to delve into the alarming rise of 'pig butchering' scams. Erin explains how these scams trick victims, often through elaborate schemes involving romantic or investment opportunities, leading to devastating financial losses. She discusses the difficulties victims face in reporting these crimes and highlights the gaps in law enforcement and financial institutions' responses. Erin shares her efforts to educate and equip law enforcement through the Crypto Coalition and emphasizes the need for greater awareness and kindness towards scam victims. The conversation also touches on the international origins of these scams and the lack of intervention by global authorities. Tune in to learn how to protect yourself and support initiatives against these destructive scams.
00:00 Introduction to Pig Butchering Scams
01:24 Meet Erin West: The Scam Fighter
03:24 Understanding Pig Butchering Scams
05:09 The Mechanics of the Scam
07:02 The Human Cost and Reporting Challenges
10:13 Origins and Operations of Pig Butchering
16:05 Targeting and Tactics of Scammers
22:11 Financial Impact and Institutional Response
25:56 The Scam Setup: How Victims Are Tricked
26:51 Emotional Manipulation Tactics
29:24 The Role of Financial Institutions
31:32 Challenges in Law Enforcement
33:12 Building a Coalition Against Crypto Crimes
35:25 The Need for Better Education and Tools
42:15 The Responsibility of Social Media Companies
44:23 Final Thoughts and Call to Action
smarticlepodcast@gmail.com
Operation Shamrock
@Smarticleshow @BDDoble @larryolson threads.net/@smarticleshow @brand.dobes The Smarticle Podcast
https://www.smarticlepodcast.com/
#erinwest #operationshamrock #cryptocoalition #pigbutcheringscam #pigbutchering #romancescams #scams #onlinescams #smarticlepodcast

The Smarticle Podcast
Larry and Brandon began podcasting together in the Spring of 2008. The relationship has been fraught with much anger and tears (mostly Larry's). But within this crucible of fire has been forged a team of podcasters dedicated to changing the podcasting world; or at least making a decent sounding show. We use over 1000 years of collective life experience to weave a tapestry the likes of which the world has never known. Come check out our work whenever you want at The Smarticle Podcast