HODGEPOD with Rob Fredette
HODGEPOD is a podcast looking back at history in music, sports, film, TV, crime, historical events with a current twist. In other words a little then and now. Each episode will deliver something new. Email [email protected] RJF MEDIA LLC
Secrets of the Dead Sea Scrolls: Tabernacles, Incense & Lost Treasures- EPISODE 176
Rob Fredette interviews Karin Anderson about her archaeological work with Vendel Jones, discoveries from the Copper Scroll, and the recovered temple incense and priestly treasures.
They discuss how the Dead Sea Scrolls connect to biblical prophecy, the Great Pyramid and the Great Seal, and what those links might suggest about modern Middle East conflicts.
From Murals Behind Bars to a Movement: Elizabeth Mikotowicz’s Story- EPISODE 175
On this episode of HODGEPOD, host Rob Fredette interviews Elizabeth Mikotowicz, an artist, author, and advocate who shares her journey from escaping domestic violence and struggling with prescription opioids to being incarcerated on federal drug charges. Elizabeth discusses her time painting murals in prison, the failures of the criminal justice and mental health systems, and the challenges of re-entering society.
She explains how art and writing became tools for healing, the importance of prison reform and protections like PREA, and her current activism and creative work, including her book No Justice, Just Us, available on Amazon and...
Reggie, Pepper & the Liberty Bowl: Inside the Memphis Showboats- EPISODE 174
Historian and Author Keith B. Wood joins Rob Fredette to discuss his new book " The Memphis Showboats, The USFL Team and the City's Fight for Major League Status", exploring the USFL team's impact on the city, memorable players and coaches, and Memphis's long-running bid for major-league football.
They cover the research and interviews behind the book, the Liberty Bowl crowds, the USFL vs. NFL conflict, and the lasting nostalgia and legacy of the Showboats in Memphis sports history.
Inside The Perfection Saga with Author and Rock and Roll talk with Beth Pellino Dudzik- EPISODE 173
Rob Fredette interviews author Beth Pellino Dudzik about her multi-book Perfection Saga, the journey from a 25-year idea to a self-published series, and the realities of indie publishing.
They discuss Beth’s integration of original songs and AI-generated music videos for the fictional rock band Perfection, her rock ’n’ roll influences, concert memories, and plans for future books and music.
Rob and Beth also discussed Rock and Roll while doing rapid fire on 10 groups.
From Combat Cockpits to Co-Authors: The Story Behind " Night of The Bear" - EPISODE 172
Hosts Rob Fredette interviews co-authors Alan Cockrell and Richard Hess about their military careers, the writing process behind their novel" Night of the Bear" , and the real-world aviation and geopolitical experiences that inspired their realistic Cold War–style thriller.
They discuss combat flying, ferrying jets worldwide, co-author collaboration, character development, and upcoming projects including the sequel "Red Tide "and personal memoirs.
Mindset in Motion: From Top 1% Realtor to Marathon TEDx Moment with Debbie DiMaggio- EPISODE 171
Host Rob Fredette interviews Debbie DiMaggio — Amazon bestselling author, TEDx speaker, top 1% real estate professional and creator of the "Mindset in Motion" method. They discuss her five-step approach to achieving goals, the marathon that inspired her book and TEDx talk, and practical mindset strategies for business, real estate, and personal growth.
The episode also covers market insights for buyers and sellers, lessons learned from failure and pivoting, Debbie’s charity project "Debbie Runs the World," and actionable tips to activate purpose, build resilience, and turn goals into momentum.
Strings, Stories & Survival: Yale Strom on the Violin That Witnessed History- EPISODE 170
Episode 170 of HODGEPOD: Rob Fredette talks with violinist, composer and filmmaker Yale Strom about his musical life—from childhood lessons and orchestra days to klezmer, rock crossover and global influences.
Strom discusses his novel "The Autobiography of the Offenbacher", the violin’s role in preserving culture and memory (including stories tied to the Holocaust), his documentary work, encounters with figures like Steven Spielberg and Leonard Nimoy, and performs a short live piece.
From Corporate to the Mic: Zach Randles-Friedman Host of 2 Podcasts joined HODGEPOD-EPISODE 169
Rob Fredette returns from hiatus to host Zach Randles Friedman a two‑podcast creator. They discuss Zach’s journey from pharmaceutical communications to podcasting full‑time, how he finds guests, and the day‑to‑day of producing five‑plus episodes weekly. Topics include near‑death experiences and mediums, remote viewing and missing‑person cases, AI’s role in creative work and research, and life in Boston — a wide‑ranging conversation about storytelling, belief, and the future of media.
Remembering Eddie Andelman: Boston's Sports Talk Pioneer-EPISODE 168
Rob Fredette shares a personal tribute to Eddie Andelman, the pioneering host of Boston's beloved Sunday-night "Sports Huddle," remembering his influence on sports talk radio and his place in the city's sports history.
He recalls working with Eddie at WHDH, memorable moments like picking up Kevin McHale at Logan and competing in a hot dog safari, and how Eddie's warmth, humor, and talent made the show must-listen radio for decades.
Eddie Andelman was Sports Talk Radio before it came into our culture.
Flags, Fighters, and Fastballs: A Canadian Veteran’s Extraordinary Life- EPISODE 167
Bruce Stock, a Canadian veteran, public affairs veteran, and novelist, joins Rob Frenette on HODGEPOD to discuss his career, his novel about a rare ambidextrous pitcher who transforms baseball, and memorable experiences—from serving at Rideau Hall and peacekeeping in Bosnia to briefing Dan Rather and writing a heartfelt letter from the Canadian flag to Old Glory.
82nd Airborne, SEER Training, and Two Thrillers: Jared Maxwell on War, Law Enforcement, and Writing- EPISODE 166
Hello, everybody. This is Rob Fredette with the podcast HodgePodge, and welcome back for another episode. My guest today is Jared Maxwell, author of "The Last Gunfighter" and "Wolfhound Dawn", a veteran who served nine years in the Army (35 months in combat) and 11 years in law enforcement. We discuss his experiences from enlisting after 9/11, intense deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan — including the Korengal Valley — airborne training with the 82nd Airborne, SEER survival doctrine, and how those experiences shaped his fast-paced novels focused on PTSD, survival, and moral conflict.
Ideasphere: How Our Ideas Became an Ecosystem- EPISODE 165
In this episode Rob Fredette interviews Anne Riley about her theory, the Ideasphere, which connects human ideas to biological systems. They explore how ideas evolve, how social media and AI change speech and accountability, and how human societies could learn from nature’s collaborative rules to address inequality, governance, and global challenges.
Riley discusses her background, the book that inspired her, and the practical implications of choosing ideas that support collective survival rather than short-term profit—calling for clearer rules, accountability, and a renewed focus on collaboration.
The Superman Wars: Inside the Creator's Fight for Justice- EPISODE 164
Rob Fredette interviews William Bernhardt about his new narrative nonfiction book" The Superman Wars", tracing Jerry Siegel’s creation of Superman, the decades-long legal battles over creator rights, and the injustices faced by comic creators.
They also cover Bernhardt’s writing process, editing tips, the WriterCon community, avoiding publishing scams, and practical advice for aspiring authors.
www.williambernhardt.com
www.writercon.com
Talking Rick Pitino, UCONN Mens and Women's Basketball and Boston Sports Nostalgia with Author Clayton Trutor- EPISODE 163
Host Rob Fredette welcomes author Clayton Trutor for a conversation about Boston and New England sports, focusing on college basketball—Rick Pitino’s revival at St. John’s, Dan Hurley and UConn’s continued dominance in Mens and Women's basq, and the lasting legacies of Jim Calhoun and Gino Auriemma.
The episode covers tournament highlights, the effects of NIL and the transfer portal, memorable moments from the Garden and NCAA tournaments, and the cultural history of Boston sports including the Beanpot and Patriots Day.
Clayton also discusses his books Boston Ball and Loserville, shares stories from spo...
From Drill to Director: Param Gill’s Indie Filmmaking Journey- EPSIODE 162
Rob Fredette sits down with Param Gill, a former dentist turned independent filmmaker, to discuss his career and films — from a PTSD-focused community drama to Hotel Hollywood and the political satire Bad President.
They cover the realities of indie filmmaking: financing, casting, distribution, the role of background actors, and how Bad President used real campaign moments to find an audience, plus a look ahead to a sequel and Gill’s advice for aspiring creators.
INSTAGRAM: @paramgill
Make the Impossible Possible: Rehan Jalali's Fitness Playbook- EPISODE-161
Rob Fredette talks with Hollywood fitness expert Rehan Jalali about his 30-year career training actors, writing bestselling diet guides, and speaking on health and performance. They cover Jalali’s N.E.S.S. framework (Nutrition, Exercise, Sleep, Supplements), his 80/20 approach to eating, and the importance of customized plans and recovery.
The episode shares practical tips—faster results with fasted morning cardio, hydration guidelines, sleep priorities, supplement basics, and mindset strategies—emphasizing consistency and that it’s never too late to start improving your health.
Rehan Jalali Official Instagram @sixpackdietplan
www.rehanjalali.com
On X...
Skincare Secrets with Chris Gibson: From Acne to Ageless Skin- EPSIODE 160
Rob Fredette hosts Chris Gibson—licensed esthetician, best-selling author, and YouTube influencer—to discuss practical skincare strategies. They cover diet, supplements (collagen), sun protection, topical ingredients (vitamin C, retinoids/bakuchiol), acne causes and treatments, facial exercises, hydration, sleep, and stress management. Chris also shares product and routine recommendations, his skincare line, and simple at-home remedies like chilled tea bags or cucumbers for under-eye puffiness.
This episode blends science-backed tips and everyday advice for healthier skin at any age from an expert with 37 years of experience.
Website-wwwchrisgibsonlive.com
Chris is the author of the book...
Hunting America's Lost Fortune: A Veteran's Guide to Real Treasure w/ Author Dr. C.V. Pratt -EPISODE 159
Rob Fredette interviews Dr. C.V. Pratt, a retired U.S. Air Force colonel turned treasure hunter and author, about blending deep historical research with modern tools to locate America’s lost and hidden treasures. They discuss notable cases—from a stranded Spanish galleon and Revolutionary War gold to Civil War caches and outlaw hoards—Pratt’s 90% Rule methodology for planning and research, and practical tips on legal and technical considerations for recovery.
C.V. can be found @
YOUTUBE @cxvprattbooks
INSTAGRAM: c.v. pratt
WEBSITE: cvpratt.com
We're All Mad Here: Laughing Through the Mess with Author Marie Kuipers- EPISODE 158
On this episode Rob Fredette welcomes Marie Kuipers, author of the memoir "We're All Mad Here," to discuss women's issues, grief, family dysfunction, and finding healing through humor and community.
They cover Marie's personal experiences—from trauma and roller derby to caregiving and mental health—and explore why messy, honest stories deserve celebration alongside triumphs. The book is available through common retailers including Amazon and Barnes and Noble.
Great and deep interview.
Marie can be found @:
www.mariekuipers.com
INSTAGRAM: @mkuipers
Overflowing Bucket: Managing Stress, Addiction & Device Intimacy-EPISODE 157
Licensed counselor Patrick Eilers joins Rob Fredette to discuss anxiety, depression, addiction (including sexual addiction, gambling and substance use), and how modern devices amplify risk. He explains the “overflowing bucket” metaphor for stress and why small triggers can cause big reactions.
The episode covers how addictions form, partner betrayal trauma, and the role of intimacy and device boundaries in recovery. Patrick describes assessment tools and treatment approaches used in therapy and specialty programs.
Practical coping strategies are shared—grounding exercises, box breathing, cold packs, journaling, accountability groups, and digital blockers—plus guidance for finding a speciali...
Matchup at Adventure Land Golf: A Wild Rhyme-Filled Journey with Author Gene Walden-EPISODE 156
Author Gene Walden’s Matchup at "Adventure Land Golf " is a rhyming, illustrated children’s book that follows two boys through an 18-hole tournament filled with wild animals, daring rescues, surprise encounters with golfing legends, and even a hole on the moon.
The story blends adventure and humor with lessons about friendship, overcoming obstacles, and inclusion, all inspired by the author’s love of golf and long career as a writer and illustrator.
Rob and Gene also talked about the incredible Indiana University National Championship in football.
You can find more from Gene @ www.Go...
From Burnout to Balance: Neurodivergent OT Nikki Smit on Everyday Well‑Being- EPISODE 155
Rob Fredette hosts Nikki Smit, a neurodivergent occupational therapist, in a practical conversation about how stress shows up in our bodies and what everyday strategies help us feel safer and more balanced.
They explain the nervous system, the "stress cup" metaphor, and simple, science‑backed tools—movement, deep pressure, breath (long exhale), music, time outdoors, "nothing time," and supportive relationships—to prevent overwhelm and build resilience.
Listeners will leave with clear, usable steps to recognize overwhelm, add small rituals into their day, set boundaries with technology, and proactively protect their well‑being.
RECORDED JANUARY...
Numa: Italy’s Self-Empowerment Pop Star on Music as Healing- EPISODE 154
Host Rob Fredette interviews Italian recording artist Numa Palmer about her long career as a singer, songwriter, producer and TV personality. They discuss how she blends music with life coaching and energy healing to create empowering songs and cinematic videos.
Numa shares stories about creative process, performing in Miami, working on humanitarian projects like "The Promised Land," and the importance of self-empowerment, gratitude, and surrounding yourself with positive people.
Numa can be found at:
www.numaofficial.com
INSTAGRAM:
@numa_palmer
RECORDED: JANUARY 10TH, 2026
EMAIL: hodgepodallin...
From Heartache to Alignment — Practical Relationship Tools and Soul Work with Maria Micha- EPISODE 153
In this episode Maria Micha, a relationship and breakup specialist and spiritual psychotherapist, shares practical strategies for overcoming obstacles, accessing the subconscious through dreams and meditation, and repairing or ending relationships with clarity and compassion.
She also explores breaking ancestral patterns, rediscovering life purpose, simple habits like weekly check-ins and date nights, and the power of kindness and community in healing and growth.
This a great episode to take a step back and reboot. Maria offered great insights.
RECORDED JANUARY 18, 2026
You can find Maria Micha @:
Instagram: officialmariamicha
L...
32 Years on the Beat: Jim Vaglica's SWAT Stories & the Boston Marathon Manhunt- EPISODE 152
Jim Vaglica recounts a 32-year law enforcement career that includes long service on a regional SWAT team, frontline work during the Boston Marathon bombing manhunt, and protection details for high-profile figures.
He also shares behind-the-scenes memories from reality shows like "Expedition Impossible" and "American Grit", his passion for fitness, and his transition into private VIP protection.
Beats, Ballparks & Backstages: A Candid Conversation with Musician-Journalist Levi Coovert -EPISODE 151
Host Rob Fredette sits down with Levi Coovert — a Seattle-based musician and sports journalist — to discuss Levi’s path into country music with rock and pop influences, songwriting during COVID, stage performance, recording and production, and his musical inspirations from the Beatles to U2.
The episode also covers Levi’s sports coverage in Washington, his love for the Mariners and Seahawks, pop culture influences, and where listeners can find his songs online.
RECORDED DECEMBER 13, 2025
You can follow Levi one:
INSTAGRAM: @levicoovert
YOUTUBE: @levicoove
TikTok : @levicoove
How Moe Norman Changed My Game — Todd Graves on the Single Plane Swing- EPISIODE 150
Rob Fredette interviews Todd Graves about his journey from playing professional golf to coaching and building Graves Golf Academy around Moe Norman's single plane swing. Todd explains how Mo's biomechanics simplified ball-striking, his time at the University of Oklahoma, life on tour, and the hands-on teaching approach he now uses at his Edmond academy and online.
The episode also covers Todd's use of AI to craft his new book The Intelligent Golf Swing, the academy's technology-driven instruction, and the satisfaction he finds in helping students improve and enjoy the game.
Great conversation.
You...
From Arkansas to LA: Nate Mayes on Acting, Murals & Western Dreams- EPISODE 149
Host Rob Fredette interviews Los Angeles–based actor, writer, producer, and muralist Nate Mayes about his journey from Arkansas to Hollywood, his acting training, and his passion for creating powerful public art.
Nate discusses auditions and coaching, memorable mural imagery (including a striking hands-and-explosion piece), his love for gritty Southern and Western roles, an upcoming psychological Western short film, and where to follow his work on Instagram @NateJMayes.
Recorded November 13, 2025.
INSTAGRAM @natejmayes
Ryan Root on Steroids, Prison & Reinvention- EPISODE 148
Former underground steroid dealer Ryan Root tells the story of his rise, conviction in Operation Cyber Juice, and the four-plus years he served in prison.
After using his time to study biochemistry and business, he built a legitimate hormone replacement therapy (HRT) clinic and a wellness brand focused on optimization, genetic testing, and education.
This episode explores addiction, the science behind testosterone, the medical stigma surrounding TRT, and Root’s path to redemption and helping thousands improve their health and confidence.
RECORED 11-11-2025
Voiceover to Leading Roles — Inside Kayne Harrison's Acting Journey- EPISODE 147
Rob Fredette interviews British-American actor Kayne Harrison about his journey from voiceover work and odd jobs to landing a role in Netflix's" Resort to Love". They discuss filming during COVID in Mauritius, his background as a plumber and accountant, his influences and favorite films, voiceover and audiobook work, upcoming indie projects including a dark comedy-horror, and his thoughts on AI and the acting life. A Great Conversation.
RECORDEDNOVEMBER 7, 2025
imbued.me/kayneharrison
INSTAGRAM- @kayneleeharrison
How Transitioning Literally Changed Teegan Toftely's Life at 48 - EPISODE 146
On this episode Rob Fredette talks with Tegan Toftley, a 55-year-old trans woman who began her transition at 48. Tegan shares how transition helped relieve lifelong gender dysphoria, anxiety and chronic migraines, and how her family, work and personal life changed through the process.
The conversation also dives into pop‑culture favorites—from The Six Million Dollar Man and the Bionic Woman to desert rock, MTV and 1980s music memories—mixing heartfelt personal experiences with lighthearted nostalgia.
RECORDED OCTOBER 28, 2025
You can follow and keep up to date with Teegan on Instagram @twincitiesteeganofficial.
Thank God for the Sinners: Inside a Punk‑Fueled Spy Thriller with Author Eric Magun - EPISODE 145
On this episode of HODGEPOD author Eric Magun discusses his debut thriller "Thank God for the Sinners" — a gritty spy story about double agent Rick Price, stitched with punk‑rock memories and a companion playlist.
Eric shares his years living in China and Southeast Asia, his indie filmmaking background, the book’s raw themes of trauma and espionage, and its recent award wins, plus a peek at the sequel in progress.
RECORDED OCTOBER 20, 2025
www.ericmagun.com
October's Quiet Legends: 10 Unexpected Heroes Who Won World Series Rings with Author Marshall Garvey-EPISODE 144
Rob Fredette and returning guest Marshall Garvey revisit memorable World Series moments to spotlight lesser-known players whose clutch performances were crucial to their teams' championships.
From Brian Holton's pivotal relief innings in 1988 to Billy Hatcher's record-smashing 1990 series, the episode celebrates the "lightning in a bottle" heroes who, despite brief careers or faded fame, left an indelible mark on baseball history.
This episode covers 10 unsung heroes in World Series history.
Enjoy!!
Recorded October 20,2025
From Child Actor to Pop Rebel: Ricky Rebel on Michael Jackson, Madonna & Stage Life-EPISODE 143
Rob Fredette sits down with singer-songwriter Ricky Rebel to trace his journey from child roles in films like Anastasia, Apollo 13 and Austin Powers to touring with Britney Spears and Destiny's Child, and being signed to labels tied to Michael Jackson and Madonna.
They discuss his songwriting process and knack for hooks, high-energy stage work, fitness and Pilates, collaborations with Snoop Dogg, Lil Wayne and Gucci Mane, and his upcoming Entertainment Hall of Fame induction — plus where to follow his music.
Curiosity Unleashed: How Rashad Woods Built The Podcast 'The Randomness of Nothing'-EPISODE 142
Rob FreDette chats with Rashad Woods, host of The Tron Podcast: "The Randomness of Nothing". They discuss Rashad's journey to starting a podcast, his love of history and documentaries, and how he interviews entrepreneurs, creators and fascinating people from all walks of life.
The episode covers podcasting tips and process—from vetting guests and editing to staying authentic—while touching on martial arts, music, nostalgia and the global reach of independent shows. Visit www.tronpodcast.com to learn more.
RECORDED OCTOBER 12, 2025
www.tronpodcast.com
From Last Chair to Center Stage: Candyce Raiford's Musical Rise- EPISODE 141
Rob Fredette sits down with multi-instrumentalist and producer Candice Raiford to trace her musical journey—from childhood talent shows and learning instruments by ear to mastering violin, cello, clarinet, piano and more.
They discuss her creative process, notable experiences with artists and music videos, game-show moments, and upcoming performances in London, offering an intimate look at how she crafts music across genres and platforms.
RECORDED JULY 18, 2025
After the Encore: Rock Widows on Love, Loss, and Legacy with Author Lori Tucker-Sullivan-EPISODE 140
Journalist Lori Tucker-Sullivan explores the untold stories of wives and girlfriends of rock stars in her book " I Can't Remember If I Cried-Rock Widows on Life, Love and Legacy" . Drawing on 22 interviews (14 in the book), she reveals the human side behind fame—grief, devotion, legal battles, and the struggle to protect legacy.
Through intimate conversations and personal reflection, the episode examines how music, youth, and relentless touring shaped these relationships and the lasting impact of loss on fans and families alike.
www.lorituckersullivan.com
RECORDED SEPTEMBER 23, 2025
"I Can't Remember If I Cr...
Theater by the Lake & Big Names: BPACC's 27th Season Preview-EPISODE 139
Join Michael Bollinger, BPACC’s artistic director, as he previews the Bartlett Performing Arts & Conference Center’s 27th season. The lineup opens October 10 with an outdoor Shakespeare production and includes country legends, tribute acts, family shows, arts‑education performances, and the must‑see Booker T. Jones.
Highlights include Music & Theater by the Lake, Darcy Lynne& Friends (sold out), T. Graham Brown, Artrageous, Mandy Barnett’s Patsy Cline tribute, The Nutcracker, the Phil Collins experience, and youth productions. BPAC is intimate and family friendly—visit BPACC.org or call the box office for tickets and details at (901)-385-5588.
<...Author Amanda Cockrell of the Novel "Are You or Have You Ever Been?" — Inside the Red Scare of 1950s Hollywood- EPISODE 138
Rob Fredette interviews novelist Amanda Cockrell about her historical fiction " Are You or Have You Ever Been?" which explores the Hollywood blacklist, House Unamerican Activities Committee (HUAC) hearings, and the personal and professional fallout of McCarthy-era accusations.
The episode covers real-life stories—Dalton Trumbo, Michael Wilson, and the Hollywood Ten—alongside Cockrell’s dual-timeline novel set in Ojai, focusing on a star’s ruined projects, a contested will, and parallels between 1950s blacklisting and today’s political climate.
Recorded September 19, 2025.
https://www.amandacockrell.com
Are You or Have You Ever Been?" is out Dec...
True Crime, Fact or Fiction: A Podcaster's Race to Survive with Author G.A. Sallee -EPISODE 137
G.A. Sallee, an Iraq War veteran and first-time author, discusses his debut fictional true-crime novel "True Crime, Fact or Fiction", in which podcaster Scott Townsend publishes cold cases and becomes the target of a killer. The episode covers the book's plot, key characters like Detective Adelina Alvarez, and Sallee’s writing process.
The conversation also explores themes about the ethics of true-crime entertainment, the editing and self-publishing journey (release October 1), and how personal experience and disciplined writing shaped the novel.
"True Crime, Fact or Fiction" will be released October 1st 2025 and can be found at...
