Billy Dees Podcast
The Billy Dees Podcast blends compelling interviews with thoughtful commentary. Guests include authors, media professionals, political figures, and advocates representing a wide range of meaningful causes.Our commentary examines current events, news, and politics with an emphasis on insight rather than outrage. Instead of partisan shouting matches, the program favors professional, respectful conversations that encourage diverse perspectives. A touch of wit—and the occasional well-placed bit of sarcasm—keeps the discussion engaging.The show is produced with a commitment to broadcast-quality standards in both sound and substance. With more than a decade in the podcasting space, The Billy Dees Podcast is bu...
Grassroots Politics, Property Taxes, AI, and the Future of Kansas - Billy Dees Talks with Gubernatorial Candidate Stacy Rogers
On this episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, Billy welcomes Stacy Rogers, Republican candidate for Governor of Kansas, for a wide-ranging conversation about the issues shaping the future of Kansas and the nation. Topics include the rapid expansion of AI-driven data centers, property taxes, education reform, government transparency, economic development, and the challenges facing rural communities.
Rogers shares why she entered the gubernatorial race, discusses her grassroots campaign that has taken her to nearly every county in Kansas, and explains why she believes voters are looking for servant leadership over career politics. Billy also explores the national impact...
250 Years of American Ventriloquism - More Than Talking Dummies with April Brucker
Discover the surprising story behind one of America's oldest—and most misunderstood—forms of entertainment. Billy Dees welcomes author, comedian, actress, and professional ventriloquist April Brucker to discuss her new book, 250 Years of American Ventriloquism: How Ventriloquism Influenced American Culture. Together they explore how ventriloquism shaped radio, television, comedy, politics, and pop culture while uncovering fascinating stories about legendary performers and forgotten pioneers.
The conversation also dives into the future of the art form, examining artificial intelligence, digital avatars, and why live performance continues to resonate with audiences. Plus, April's hilarious puppet Mae Wilson join...
History, Engineering, and Alternative Historical Fiction - Talking World War II with Author Jeff Kildow
On this episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, Billy welcomes author and retired aerospace engineer Jeff Kildow for a fascinating conversation about World War II aviation, military history, and the art of writing historical fiction. Drawing on his career with Lockheed Martin and his passion for preserving history, Kildow shares insights into the remarkable engineering breakthroughs of the era and the inspiration behind his Joel Knight Menace series.
The discussion explores iconic wartime aircraft, alternate history, the challenges of accurately portraying the technology of the 1940s, and thoughtful perspectives on some of World War...
The Evolution of Podcasting, Media Trust, and Modern Political Discourse
In this engaging episode, Billy Dees joins host Samantha Wooldrik for a wide-ranging conversation about the evolution of podcasting, the changing media landscape, and the growing challenges facing public discourse. Drawing on decades of experience in audio production, broadcasting, and podcasting, Billy shares his journey from the era of reel-to-reel tape machines and radio commercials to becoming the creator and host of the long-running Billy Dees Podcast.
The discussion explores how podcasting transformed from a niche hobby embraced by early internet enthusiasts into one of the most influential forms of modern media. Billy reflects on the rise of...
Church, State, and the Forgotten Founder of Religious Freedom
Documentary filmmaker Andrew Linn joins Billy Dees to discuss his film Church and State: Roger Williams and the Founding of Freedom of Religion.
The conversation explores the often-misunderstood concept of separation of church and state, the remarkable legacy of Roger Williams, and the historical roots of religious liberty in America. Billy and Andrew also examine the role of faith in public life, the beliefs of the Founding Fathers, free speech, cancel culture, and the challenges of civil discourse in today's polarized society.
A thought-provoking discussion on history, religion, and the principles that continue to...
Resilience, Leadership, and the Human Side of Success - A Conversation with Victoria Pelletier
Victoria Pelletier joins Billy Dees for an inspiring conversation about resilience, leadership, and turning adversity into opportunity. From overcoming a difficult childhood to becoming a successful corporate executive, bestselling author, and renowned speaker, Victoria shares the experiences that shaped her approach to business and life.
The discussion explores authentic leadership, personal branding, diversity of thought, the impact of AI on the workplace, and why discipline and intentional action matter more than empty positivity. An insightful episode filled with practical wisdom for leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone striving to reach their full potential.
Victoria is an in demand...
Sidney Pines - Author of the Patriot's Diary Series
In this episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, Billy sits down with author Sidney Pines, whose journey from political disengagement to conservative commentator inspired her bestselling Patriot Diary series. Pines describes herself as an "everyday American" who began noticing what she believed were inconsistencies in news coverage and government narratives during 2020. What started as personal research and journal entries for future generations eventually evolved into a published book series, beginning with Awakening: A Patriot's Diary of American Deception and continuing with the recently released Golden Age Rising.
Throughout the conversation, Pines reflects on her...
From Military Service to Mystery Writing - A Conversation with Kat Anderson
Retired Air Force veteran, former political commentator, and author Kat Anderson joins Billy Dees for a wide-ranging conversation about storytelling, creativity, and the mysteries that captivate us. Anderson discusses her debut paranormal noir novel, No Rest for the Wicked, and how her military experiences, fascination with mythology, and interest in the unexplained helped shape its unique blend of detective fiction, conspiracy, and supernatural intrigue.
The conversation explores everything from UFOs and conspiracy theories to time, memory, and the challenges of reinventing yourself after a major life transition. Anderson also shares insights from her years...
LA Mayor Race - Insider's Take on Politics, Homelessness, & Crime
On this episode of the Billy Dees Podcast, Billy welcomes filmmaker and frequent co-host Sara Alessandrini for a wide-ranging conversation about life in Los Angeles, the city’s mayoral race, homelessness, crime, political polarization, and the changing culture of America’s major cities.
Drawing from her firsthand experience living and working in Los Angeles for more than a decade, Sara offers an on-the-ground perspective rarely heard in mainstream political commentary. From managing historic Hollywood properties to navigating homelessness encampments, public safety concerns, and the realities of city life, she shares stories that paint a vivi...
Rise Above the Script with Dr. Albert Bramante
On this episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, Billy sits down with Dr. Albert Bramante, author of Rise Above the Script, for a compelling conversation about self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and the psychology of performance. Drawing from his unique background as both a talent agent and psychologist, Bramante explains why so many creative people unknowingly sabotage their own success and how they can overcome those mental roadblocks.
The discussion also explores toxic positivity, fear, discipline, confidence-building, and the growing influence of AI on creativity and human connection. Whether you’re a performer, entrepreneur, public speaker, or...
Encore Presentation - Common Sense Reasons Why the Moon Landing Was Not a Hoax
Originally released October 26, 2025.
In this commentary-driven episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, host Billy Dees takes a practical and entertaining look at one of the most persistent conspiracy theories of modern times: the claim that the Apollo moon landings were faked. Rather than relying on overly technical explanations or dense scientific arguments, Billy approaches the topic from a common-sense perspective, speaking directly to listeners who may be exhausted by the growing popularity of moon landing skepticism on social media and in everyday conversation. The episode blends history, humor, cultural commentary, and straightforward reasoning into a...
Author Nancy Jasin Ensley - Hospice, Sci-Fi & Life's Enduring Mysteries
In this episode, Billy Dees welcomes author and hospice specialist Nancy Jasin Ensley for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation. Nancy shares how her experiences in healthcare and end-of-life care have shaped her perspective on life, storytelling, and human connection.
The discussion explores her journey as a multi-genre writer, the inspiration behind her books like The Tire Swing, and how real-life moments—both difficult and uplifting—inform her work. Nancy also offers insight into the creative process, discipline in writing, and the deeper themes of resilience, forgiveness, and meaning that run through her stories.
Exploring Culture, Politics, and Critical Thinking - A Conversation with Nicole Nathern-Hedrick
Billy Dees sits down with Nicole Nathern-Hedrick, a growing voice on TikTok known for her commentary on faith, culture, and current events. Drawing from her background in the U.S. Army, Nicole shares how her experiences shaped her worldview and led her to speak out on today’s most pressing issues.
The conversation explores the power of language, media influence, and the increasing polarization in society. Nicole also discusses her concept of “thought reform” and how emotional messaging can shape public perception and behavior.
Blending insight with practical advice, this episod...
Hollywood Insider - 20 Years of Tales with Marsha Scarbrough
What’s it really like working behind the scenes in Hollywood? In this episode, Billy Dees is joined by Marsha Scarbrough, a former assistant director with nearly 20 years of experience in the film industry. From long days on set to managing logistics for major productions, Marsha shares what it takes to keep a movie running—and what audiences never see.
She also reflects on working with well-known actors and directors, offering candid insight into the personalities, pressures, and professionalism that shape life on set. Along the way, Marsha shares stories from both the highlights and...
Exploring Big Ideas Through Speculative Fiction - A Conversation with Diana Colleen
In this thought-provoking episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, Billy welcomes speculative fiction author Diana Colleen for a wide-ranging discussion that blends storytelling, philosophy, and current social issues. At the heart of the conversation is Colleen’s debut novel, They Could Be Saviors, a book built on a bold and provocative premise: what if saving the planet required confronting the immense power of billionaires? From the outset, the episode sets the tone for an open dialogue—one where differing viewpoints are not only acknowledged but explored with curiosity and respect.
A central theme of the disc...
Rethinking the System - A Conversation with Tom Joseph on a “Moneyless” Path to Congress
In this episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, host Billy Dees sits down with Tom Joseph, founder of America’s Main Street Party, to explore an ambitious and unconventional idea: a “moneyless” nominating system for congressional candidates. At a time when public trust in political institutions is strained and campaign spending continues to dominate elections, Joseph presents a model designed to shift power away from wealthy donors and party elites, placing it directly into the hands of voters.
At the core of Joseph’s proposal is a competition-style primary process that eliminates campaign spending altogeth...
Danielle M. Orsino Talks Cosplay, Martial Arts, and Writing Fantasy
This episode of the podcast features a lively and wide-ranging conversation between Billy Dees and fantasy author, martial artist, and cosplayer Danielle M. Orsino. The discussion begins with Orsino’s unconventional journey into writing, sparked by storytelling sessions with a patient undergoing medical treatment. From those humble beginnings, she developed her Legacies of Light and Dark series, building a creative career that blends instinctive storytelling with immersive character development. Her path highlights a recurring theme throughout the episode: creativity doesn’t always follow a traditional or “trained” route, and sometimes the most compelling stories emerge organically.
As the...
Lorie Kleiner Eckert - What if Good Enough is Better Than Perfect?
This episode of The Billy Dees Podcast featuring Billy Dees and Lorie Kleiner Eckert centers on personal growth, resilience, and redefining what it means to live a fulfilling life. The conversation is anchored around Eckert’s book Chai on Life, which blends storytelling with practical life lessons drawn from her own experiences. Rather than offering abstract theories, she emphasizes “everyday wisdom”—simple, relatable insights that encourage listeners to find meaning in ordinary moments, embrace gratitude, and let go of the pressure to be perfect. Â
A major theme throughout the discussion is the rejection of perfectio...
Live! Billy Dees, Sara Alessandrini, and Sam Wooldrik - Iran, Immigration, Epstein & More
This live episode (Mar 19, 2026, 8:00pm EST) of The Billy Dees Podcast brings together host Billy Dees, filmmaker and commentator Sara Alessandrini, and podcaster Sam Wooldrik for a wide-ranging, unscripted discussion that reflects the fast-moving and often chaotic nature of today’s media and political landscape.Â
The conversation moves fluidly across major global and domestic issues—including tensions with Iran, immigration policy, and the ongoing intrigue surrounding the Epstein case—while also examining how these topics are shaped, distorted, and amplified by modern media and the podcasting space itself. At its core, the episode explores how public discourse has become...
Sara Alessandrini - Problem with Zohran Momdani is Not What He Says, But What He Doesn't
In this episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, host Billy Dees welcomes returning guest Sara Alessandrini for a wide-ranging discussion that blends media analysis, politics, and cultural perspective. Alessandrini—an accomplished commentator and filmmaker—joins the program to discuss her work and recent writing, including a Substack essay examining the political messaging and policy contradictions surrounding New York City politics. The conversation offers listeners both analysis and context, particularly for those trying to understand the intersection of media narratives and political branding.
A key focus of the discussion is Alessandrini’s documentary, This Is What New Yorkers Say, a mult...
The Rise of the “Patriot Economy” - Marketing, Politics, and the Psychology of Giving with Jeff Kruszyna
Billy Dees welcomes Jeff Kruszyna, founder and CEO of JMK Victory, for a wide-ranging conversation about politics, marketing, and the rise of what he calls the “patriot economy.” With more than 20 years in direct response marketing and over $100 million raised for campaigns, PACs, and advocacy organizations, Kruszyna shares insight into how values-driven consumerism is reshaping business and political fundraising.
The discussion explores how September 11th changed the course of Kruszyna’s life, leading him from a computer science student at Stony Brook University into the world of political strategy and fundraising. Dees and Kr...
Eric Robinson Tells his Journey from Pastor to the FBI
On this episode of the Billy Dees Podcast, Billy welcomes former FBI Special Agent Eric Robinson for a compelling conversation that bridges faith, federal investigations, and frontline reality. Â
After 24 years with the FBI — working white-collar crime, counter-terrorism, gangs, drugs, crimes against children, and serving as a SWAT operator and firearms instructor — Eric shares what the job is really like beyond the television dramas. From the painstaking process behind wiretaps to the split-second decisions made during high-risk operations, he offers a grounded look at life inside the Bureau. Â
But Eric’s story doesn’t begin with law enforcemen...
Cinda Gault — Writing Women, History, and Identity
Podcast Description: Cinda Gault — Writing Women, History, and Identity
In this episode, Billy Dees welcomes Canadian author Cinda Gault for a wide-ranging and thoughtful conversation about literature, feminism, history, and cultural identity.
Cinda Gault shares her journey from second-wave feminist activism in 1970s Canada to earning advanced degrees in criminology and English, and ultimately becoming a novelist. The discussion explores her three books — This Godforsaken Place, A Small Compass, and Everything I Hope For — and her passion for telling stories about resilient women navigating both wilderness frontiers and modern urban life.<...
A Deep Dive into the Epstein Files - Politics, Power, and Public Perception
In this episode, Billy Dees welcomes fellow podcaster Sam, host of the Shades of Jade Podcast, for a wide-ranging and thought-provoking discussion that blends commentary with investigative curiosity. Sam’s show, much like Billy’s, tackles current events and cultural flashpoints — and lately, her focus has been on the ever-evolving story surrounding Jeffrey Epstein.
At the heart of the conversation is the public reaction to the so-called “Epstein files.” Sam explains that much of her coverage has centered on separating fact from fiction. Just because a name appears in documents connected to Jeffrey Epstein does not mean criminal involvemen...
Dr. Marc J. Defant - Activism vs. Science - Evolutionary Psychology & Gender Differences
What happens when ideology collides with science?
In this episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, Billy sits down with Dr. Marc J. Defant, professor of geology and geochemistry at the University of South Florida and author of Voyage of Discovery: From the Big Bang to the Ice Age. Dr. Defant brings decades of scientific research—and a willingness to challenge academic orthodoxy—to a wide-ranging conversation about evolutionary psychology, biology, and the growing politicization of higher education.
Together, Billy and Dr. Defant explore why evidence still matters, how evolutionary psychology explains sex differences and human behavior, and...
D.H. Morris - Author - "The Girl of Many Crowns"
If you enjoy history, you will really like this episode.
D. H. Morris, a native of San Diego, California, has lived on four continents and traveled through countless countries. Now residing in Kansas City, Missouri, she’s the proud mother of four children and grandmother to eleven. With a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and Choral Music Education from Utah State University, she later pursued graduate studies in English at USU and law at the University of Utah. Â
A published playwright, she has recently turned her passion for history into a novel, The Girl of Man...
Laura Buchwald - Author "The Book of Reservations"
In this deeply reflective episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, Billy sits down with author Laura Buchwald to explore grief, storytelling, and the enduring human desire to reconnect with those we’ve lost. The conversation centers on Buchwald’s novel The Book of Reservations, a story built around a haunting yet tender premise: what if you could share one more meal with a departed loved one? Drawing from personal loss, spiritual curiosity, and years immersed in the arts, Buchwald discusses how grief is not a linear process, but a deeply personal and cumulative experience that shapes how we love...
Zolal Habibi - Iran - The Alternative and Democratic Change
In this powerful episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, Billy sits down with Iranian human rights activist Zolal Habibi for an in-depth and deeply personal conversation about Iran’s past, present, and possible future. Zolal shares her extraordinary journey into activism, shaped by the loss of her father during the 1988 massacre of political prisoners, and explains her work with the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI). The discussion provides crucial context many Americans may not be familiar with, challenging oversimplified narratives about Iran before and after the 1979 revolution and explaining how a popular uprising for freedom was ul...
LIVE with Billy Dees and Cynthia Elliott - Iran - ICE - Hollywood and More
🎙️ Episode Recap — Originally Live January 16, 2026 @ 8:00 PM EST
Join us for a wide-ranging and riveting conversation with Billy Dees and Cynthia Elliott, where no headline is too hot and no topic too complex.
This episode dives headfirst into the biggest stories driving news cycles and public debate right now — from the escalating political and legal fallout over the controversial ICE shooting death in Minneapolis to Iran’s geopolitical shifts past, present, and future. We also unpack the ever-changing landscape of Hollywood, and grapple with the heated discourse around free speech sparked by Shlomo Kramer’s recent remarks.
Th...
Talking About the Mix of Politics and Media with Filmmaker - Sara Alessandrini
In this episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, Billy sits down with Italian filmmaker and social commentator Sara Alessandrini, creator of the docu-series This Is What New Yorkers Say.
Sara discusses her deep dive into the Andrew Cuomo media saga and how legacy media, public outrage, and social movements shape — and sometimes distort — public perception.
Drawing from her experience living in both Europe and the United States, Sarah offers a unique perspective on due process, the limits of movements like #MeToo, political polarization, immigration, and the growing inability to have nuanced conversations in today’s cult...
At the Crossroads - Lessons from 2025 and the Uncertain Path to 2026
Billy Dees with Guest CoHost Cynthia Elliott
In this episode, the conversation ranged widely across some of the biggest cultural, technological, and political shifts shaping our moment. Billy and Cynthia explored the rapid rise of artificial intelligence and what it could mean for jobs, human purpose, and the future of work, while also touching on broader concerns about the planet and the possibility of major technological and energy breakthroughs that could reshape civilization.Â
The discussion expanded into questions of consciousness—whether emerging technologies might change how we understand the human mind itself—and how a new space...
Andrea LeDew - "Polemics - Political Poems and Prose"
Andrea LeDew is a Jacksonville, Florida–based writer and poet who has spent more than thirty years immersed in literature, language, law, and homeschooling. She is the author of Polemics: Political Poems & Prose, a ten-year collection covering major events in American politics from 2016 through early 2025. Her website For Random Learning Comes has been active for a decade, and her poetry has appeared in multiple literary magazines. She has also participated in regional literary events such as Jax by Jax and the St. Augustine Poet Fest. Beyond poetry, she is currently working on a novel featuring a di...
Analysis of the Mark Kelly and Democrats’ “Illegal Orders” Message – What Was the Purpose?
In this episode, we break down the controversial statement released by six Democratic lawmakers warning that U.S. service members are not obligated to follow illegal orders—a point already well-established in military training. Critics on the right have labeled them the “seditious six,” arguing the message was unnecessary and inflammatory. We explore why this statement was made, what it implies, and how it has heightened public tension and speculation about what might unfold in the near future.
We also shift to a broader discussion about America’s growing frustration with violent crime. As many citizens feel that the just...
Five Reasons Why the Hollywood Box Office is Losing its Glamour
(00:00:00) Five Reasons Why the Hollywood Box Office is Losing its Glamour
(00:00:01) Welcome to Billy D's Podcast
(00:01:28) The Changing Landscape of Hollywood
(00:05:21) The Streaming Revolution and Its Impact
(00:11:43) The Decline of Traditional Marketing
(00:17:16) The Activism Problem in Hollywood
(00:24:52) Rising Costs and Franchise Fatigue
(00:28:36) The CGI Dilemma
(00:37:48) Closing Remarks and Subscription Information
(00:39:34) Podcast Subscription and Social Media Promotion
In this episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, Billy takes a deep dive into the long-term decline of the Hollywood box office. After welcoming new listeners and explaining the show’s mix of in...
Friday LIVE with Cynthia Elliott - Nirvana - A Psychic's Journey to the Final Rebirth
In this episode, we welcome Cynthia Elliott, an author, intuitive, and the creative force behind multiple transformational projects. Cynthia joins us to discuss her latest book, Memory Mansion, a deeply personal exploration of healing, identity, and the stories we carry.
We also dive into the mission of The SoulTech Foundation, where Cynthia and her team are developing forward-thinking programs—including an AI Literacy Training Program with the ambitious goal of teaching and certifying 10,000 Americans to help them navigate the rapidly evolving digital world.
Cynthia shares updates on...
Wendy B. Correa - My Pretty Baby - Seeking Truth and Finding Healing
On this episode meet former music industry insider, radio DJ and now author WENDY B. CORREA. In her new book: “MY PRETTY BABY” - Correa writes about her own riveting journey with ACE (adverse childhood experience), including her time in celebrity circles, spiritual practices, and a lifetime of healing from childhood trauma. The book is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and an urgent reminder that healing requires honesty, community, and hope.
This episode was produced Thursday November 6, 2025
You can find out more about Wendy B. Correa here https://www...
Common Sense Reasons Why the Moon Landing Was Not a Hoax
In this episode, Billy Dees takes a rational look at one of the most persistent conspiracy theories — that the Apollo moon landings were a hoax.
While this podcast won’t convince the true believers, it offers a clear, fact-based perspective for those who are weary of misinformation and want to understand the evidence with common sense.
Billy explores how multiple nations — including the former Soviet Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Spain — independently tracked the Apollo missions in real time. He also highlights how modern space agencies from Japan, China, India, and Europe have since photographed and veri...
From a Marketing Perspective - How the Browns Damaged Their Brand
A professional sports franchise is more than just a team—it’s a brand. For decades, the Cleveland Browns embodied a legacy of grit and loyalty, earning a national following despite never reaching a Super Bowl. Their underdog spirit defined them, and fans held onto hope for that one fairytale season.
But in recent years, that identity has faded. Controversial decisions, questionable trades, and a disconnect between leadership and the fanbase have left the once-proud franchise struggling with its image.
In this episode, Billy Dees explores how the Browns’ brand unraveled—examining what went wrong inside the orga...
Gaza, More Kimmel Remarks, and Letitia James
Episode Description:
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In this episode, Billy Dees takes a deep dive into three major stories making headlines — the fragile peace agreement in Gaza, Jimmy Kimmel’s controversial claim that Antifa “does not exist,” and the latest developments in the Letitia James case.
A consistent theme in Billy’s commentary is the importance of evaluating issues based on facts rather than personalities or partisanship. He challenges listeners to think critically, not emotionally. Billy also takes a moment to respond to some of his critics from a previous episode, addressing their feedback with his trademark clarity and reasoned approach.
Josh Lewis - A Conversation About Classical Conservatism and What It Means in 2025
In this episode, we welcome Josh Lewis, a CPA from Tulsa and former candidate for City Auditor. With more than a decade of experience auditing governments, Josh brings a practical, grounded perspective to politics and public life.
A graduate of College of the Ozarks—famously known as “Hard Work U”—Josh majored in accounting with a minor in Speech Communications, serving as president of the College Republicans. Inspired by thinkers like Edmund Burke, Russell Kirk, William F. Buckley, and Thomas Sowell, he is deeply committed to exploring how conservatism can not only survive but thrive in the 21st century...
