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Miami’s cultural landmarks don’t just decorate the cityscape; they tell the story of a vibrant, ever-evolving community. From artistic innovation to tales of resilience, each location holds a piece of the city’s soul. For anyone looking to understand Miami, or use its unique allure in a meaningful way, these landmarks offer more than meets the eye.

Wynwood Walls: A Testament to Urban Renewal

Once a forgotten industrial area, Wynwood transformed into an open-air art gallery that draws millions of visitors annually. The Wynwood Walls showcase over 50 murals, crafted by renowned artists from around the world. These aren’t just decorative, they’re statements about culture, identity, and the power of creativity.

Hidden Stories:

• Farid Rueda’s kaleidoscopic murals highlight the fusion of Latin American culture with urban art, reflecting Miami’s multicultural tapestry.
• Hebru Brantley’s characters bring Afro-futuristic elements to the Walls, representing a celebration of Black culture in a global context.
• Peter Tunney’s “Gratitude” and “Change the Way You See Everything” murals stand as symbols of optimism, echoing the community’s hope for continuous growth.

The Wynwood Walls don’t just breathe life into art, they redefine the space as a global beacon of creative expression, where art and community intersect.

Little Havana: A Living Slice of Cuban Heritage

Little Havana is more than a neighborhood; it’s an emotional connection to Cuba’s history and culture. As you walk down Calle Ocho, the scents of fresh coffee and cigar smoke intermingle with the sounds of salsa music and Spanish chatter. Little Havana’s vibrant traditions and deep-rooted heritage have not only enriched Miami but also inspired marketers who see the power of culture in driving authentic connections..

Hidden Stories:

• Calle Ocho Walk of Fame: This stretch celebrates prominent Cubans and other Latinos who’ve made a significant cultural impact, from music to politics.
• Domino Park: Known as Máximo Gómez Park, this spot serves as a cultural hub where locals play dominos, debate politics, and keep the heartbeat of the community alive.
• Tower Theater: Built in 1926, the theater became a lifeline for Cuban immigrants in the 1960s by showing Spanish-subtitled films, blending entertainment with cultural acclimatization.

Little Havana isn’t just nostalgia, it’s a sensory immersion into the Cuban experience. From its art-filled streets to its storied venues, every detail reveals the spirit of a people who carried their culture across the ocean.

Art Deco District: Miami’s Architectural Treasure Chest

Walking through Miami Beach’s Art Deco District feels like stepping into a 1930s postcard. These pastel-colored, geometric buildings reflect an era when Miami emerged as a glamorous tourist destination. Today, the district is a protected area, preserving its architectural legacy while remaining a cornerstone of Miami’s identity.

Hidden Stories:

• The district’s iconic design was born from a fusion of modernity and tropical flair, using colors and motifs inspired by the sun, sea, and sand.
• Notable landmarks like the Colony Hotel and Villa Casa Casuarina (formerly Gianni Versace’s mansion) offer windows into Miami’s roaring past.
• Behind their aesthetic charm lies an enduring legacy of innovation, these buildings were among the first to experiment with efficient designs for tropical climates.

Art Deco in Miami is more than an architectural style; it’s a celebration of the city’s ability to balance elegance, practicality, and allure.

Adrienne Arsht Center: A Contemporary Cultural Powerhouse

Miami’s Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts isn’t just a venue; it’s a modern-day testament to the city’s commitment to culture. Its sleek, futuristic design, coupled with world-class acoustics, positions it as a premier destination for artistic expression.

Hidden Stories:

• The center’s stunning 40-foot acoustic dome was designed to optimize sound, making it one of the most advanced performance venues in the world.
• From ballet to Broadway, the Arsht Center’s diverse programming mirrors Miami’s multifaceted identity.
• The venue has also become a hub for community outreach, offering educational programs that foster a love of the arts in the next generation.

This landmark is a reflection of Miami’s future-facing vision, where technology and culture coexist to create transformative experiences.

Connecting the Cultural Dots: A Broader Picture

Miami’s landmarks are not isolated attractions, they are interwoven threads in the city’s cultural fabric. Together, they tell a cohesive story of resilience, innovation, and community. By appreciating the hidden stories of each, we gain deeper insight into what makes Miami truly one of a kind.

Thematic Links Between Landmarks:

1. Resilience in the Face of Change: Wynwood Walls showcases art’s ability to uplift neglected spaces, just as Little Havana preserves traditions despite displacement.
2. Celebration of Diversity: From Afro-futuristic murals to Cuban heritage, these landmarks embody Miami’s multicultural roots.
3. Artistry and Innovation: Whether through Art Deco design or the Arsht Center’s state-of-the-art features, Miami consistently finds ways to merge creativity with progress.

Why These Landmarks Matter to Everyone

Understanding Miami’s landmarks isn’t just for historians or marketers. These places embody universal themes: the power of art, the importance of community, and the celebration of heritage. Whether you’re a visitor, a resident, or a business hoping to connect, these landmarks are Miami’s love letters to its people and the world.

In Snoodles in Space, Episode 2: The Zoodles Strike Back, Steven Joseph takes readers on a fantastically zany, noodle-packed adventure where bravery and absurdity walk hand-in-hand across the galaxy. This time, the Zoodles are back with a vengeance, teaming up with a down-on-his-luck tycoon to poison Earth’s water supply. It’s up to our heroes Briana and Ricky—and maybe a few surprising allies from the wrong side of the tracks—to stop this dastardly plot. With Joseph’s trademark humor and knack for making the utterly ridiculous feel almost plausible, this third installment of the beloved Snoodles series offers readers a delightful, laugh-out-loud experience with a dash of environmental awareness.

Steven Joseph, the imaginative mind behind the Snoodles series, is no stranger to blending humor with deeper themes. A lawyer, marathoner, and self-proclaimed “Zen Master of Crankiness,” Joseph’s life experience brings a unique flavor to his stories. He’s mastered the art of spinning tales that are as entertaining as they are insightful, tackling complex themes of resilience and hope through fun, engaging narratives. If you’re ready to dive into a world where space noodles and stinky Groodles collide with kid-friendly messages on courage and environmental care, this book is an absolute must-read. Prepare for belly laughs, unexpected heroes, and a few life lessons that will sneak up on you along the way.

 

Q.  Tell us about the importance of encouraging kids to rise to challenges?

In my books, my rule is that it should take the totally ridiculous and make it completely believable.  Then, when you get that, the feeling should be almost magical, and you think anything is possible.  It is that belief that anything or everything is possible that will allow a kid to believe and see the importance of rising to the challenge. 

Q. What are the core environmental messages inside the Snoodles In Space 2 book?

When you think about the Groodle that is quite stinky, and the Grool itself is dumped into the rivers, you see that there is a connection between the air and the water.  I think that is just as true in the real world. What ends up in the air gets into the water as well. 

Q. Share with us a little bit about your life growing up in NYC and the importance of going to museums.

We did not have royal palaces to go to, but we had museums. The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Natural History were our castles that you could not do it justice by going there for one morning or one day. Also, they had a voluntary admission, and we would give the person at the ticket booth, and six of us would get the clip-on admission buttons for a nickel! 

Q. What messages of hope and change for kids do you hope to deliver through this book to help make the world a better place?

There are too many zombie books and movies out there. There is so much negativity with global warming and things are getting worse. Kids should grow up thinking that they have an opportunity to leave this world a better place than it was when they got here. 

Q. What will parents and educators discover in Snoodles in Space Episode 2?

They will discover that kids are so excited to learn when it is fun and different and when it opens their minds to a new world and new possibilities. When you get kids to look forward, they look forward to the future because they understand the delight of ownership in the future. 

Q. How did Andy Case’s music inspire you in writing this book?

This book takes us to the music scene of Noodleham.  The most popular group is Swifty Swoodle and the DooWopadoodles. They go on this gazillion dollar world tour that even Cloodle the Grand Roodle hears about. He wants to come to Earth and do his own world tour with his band that is aptly called “Cloodles and the Grand Roodles”.  But he is terrible and the tour gets cancelled.  Cloodle the Grand Roodle gets furious, and the craziness ensues. 

Q. Talk to us about your future project such as “Escape from Snoodletraz”.

Andy released an album in November 2023 title “Leap of Faith.”  There is not a bad track on the album.  There are two songs on the album that just put the story in my head.  One is titled “Lost Souls in the Dark” that has a guitar sound that made me think of Snoodles flying through space to once again save the day, and “Break Free” that starts with a guitar sound like a Snoodle landing on an asteroid, and the freeing of the gang is right there when he sings “Just want to Break Free!”  I heard that and the story started to get written in my head. 

 

Pen or Keyboard? – Keyboard 

Early bird or Night Owl? – Early Bird 

Food you can’t resist – Pastrami Sandwich or Sushi 

Favorite genre to read? – Political Thrillers 

Favorite childhood memory? – My first rock concert – Paul McCartney & Wings – Wings Over America Tour 

Favorite way to relax? – A long run along The Hudson early in the morning 

Favorite color? – Mets Blue and Orange 

Sunrise or Sunset? – Sunrise 

Adventure travel or relaxing vacation? – Adventure 

Digital books or paperbacks? – Digital 

 

Grab your copy of Snoodles today! Check out another author interview.

In this chat, we catch up with Stacia Moffett, the storyteller behind the captivating series Lost and Found in Tennessee. Set in the 1950s in the small town of Radford, Tennessee, the series follows the spunky and daring Jessa, an orphaned runaway who stirs things up in her hometown, shaking the delicate peace between its Black and white communities. With her fresh perspective from Oregon, Jessa isn’t afraid to call out the Jim Crow practices she once accepted, and she’s ready to speak her mind—even if it means ruffling some feathers. Stacia gives us the scoop on what inspired her to bring Jessa’s bold journey to life, her passion for storytelling, and why she loves taking readers on a ride through a town filled with secrets, struggles, and heart.

Q. What do you like doing in your spare time?    

Retirement didn’t pose a problem of too much spare time!  When our German friend was staying with us, he noticed that we headed back to work after dinner, and he gradually convinced us that we should sit outside, enjoy the canyon’s birds and scenery, maybe have a beer, and talk.  That is my favorite thing to do with my spare time.   

 

Q. What would you change your name to?    

I am perfectly happy with my given name, Stacia.  My mother chose to take her mother’s name, Eustashia, shorten it and simplify the spelling, and that gave me a name that was as unique as I sensed myself to be. 

 

Q. What’s your biggest pet peeve?  

As a careful writer, I am irritated when we lose distinctions that the wonderful English language provides us with One example is the use of less when fewer conveys the same information plus the fact that we are talking about something that is subject to being counted. 

 

Q. Who is your inspiration?  

My family is my inspiration, especially my mother, who loved her life as a teacher because she loved her classes and what she was able to give them.  Each year, she would write an original play for her second-graders and then they would each have an important part, because the creation of the scenery, changing the set between acts, operating the curtains were all jobs done by the class, as well as the students who had to memorize their lines (and the good student who was ready to provide prompts backstage itf needed.)  The capper was that she entrusted the entire production in those second-graders and went out into the audience to watch the play.  The other teachers were flabbergasted, but the kids pulled it off, year after year. 

 

Q. Do you speak any other languages?   

I began by studying Latin in the eighth grade, and continued with Juiius Caesar, followed by two years of Spanish.  In college, I finally was able to study French, which was not available in my high school, and I studied German for its presumed  relevance to a scientific career, but it was my knowledge of French that allowed me to read critical older scientific literature that was crucial to my Ph.D. research.  Language study has been valuable to me, but I cannot say that I speak any language but English fluently.  

 

Q. Where would you like to visit?  

The place I would love to visit is Australia and Tasmania, for the wonderful animals and the interesting history of the aboriginal people. 

 

Q. If you weren’t famous, what would you be up to right now?   

Famous?  Well, I guess I would be trying to get even more famous so that my books would be very widely read, but fame can come with a cost, and I have never pursued fame at any cost. 

 

Q. Who is the messiest person you know?   

That would definitely be our son, the winemaker.  He has the most active mind of anyone I know, but it can’t be bothered with mundane things like hanging up a towel or closing a drawer that he has rummaged through… 

 

Q. What’s the most interesting thing you’ve read or seen this week?   

I am enjoying a book, The God of the Woods, by Liz Moore which my daughter recommended for its presumed similarity to my books.  It is not similar, being a murder mystery, but it is similar to my books in having a lot of characters that all contribute to the plot – I still don’t know how it ends…. 

 

Q. What would you like to remember about you?   

I have always been a person who was marching to music others didn’t hear. Feeling myself to be different but also having the wonderful backing of my family made it possible for me to make unusual choices in my life, and I hope people can remember me for my pioneering spirit. 

 

Q. Baking or Cooking?

Both!  I love starting with the basic ingredients, straight from the garden or orchard, if possible.  Pies are my specialty, though.

 Q. Margarita or Cosmo? 

A: Neither – I would prefer one of the wines that our son made from our own vineyard.  Our site in Eastern Washington is just right for classic wine grapes, and our Ben is a superlative vintner. 

 Q. Holding a Puppy or Holding a Baby? 

A: I started out with puppies, as my family raised both Pekingese and miniature poodles.  I think dogs taught me a lot about how to hold and love another creature, and when it became time for me to hold my own babies, I was “prepped” to love the experience. 

 Q. invisibility cloak or sparkling skin?  

A: Definitely invisibility cloak!  What an opportunity to be present without being an imposition… 

 Q. Coffee or tea? 

A: If I had to choose between two beverages I love, the choice would have to be coffee – I cannot imagine living without it.  Our son the winemaker has experimented with roasting green coffee beans and thereby expanded our appreciation of the gifts the coffee plant offers.   

  Q. Dinosaurs or princesses?  

A: Oh, definitely dinosaurs.  I love paleontology and archaeology.  Another of my mother’s tricks to teach second graders to read was to use their fascination with dinosaurs to help them sound out the names, which, unlike many English words, are reliably phonetic.  Their parents were impressed!  

 Q. Laptop or phone? 

A: I prefer the laptop because it is better for writing.  The phone is handy when a fact needs to be checked, but for communication, the laptop is my friend.  

 Q. Mountain or Beach?  

A: Summers were a chance for my family to visit the beaches of Florida and the Carolinas.  We would drive through the Smokies, an old and gentle mountain range, to get to the beach, but the crashing of the waves, the moonlight over the water, and the many shells and living animals we encountered at the beach were very special to a landlubber from Tennessee.  In Washington State, we have the Rockies, which are thrilling to explore, but my first love is still the beach.  

 Q. Beer or Vodka?  

A: Beer!  I was first introduced to beer the summer I spent at Woods Hole Massachusetts at a marine lab.  Each week the class studying marine invertebrate zoology would take a field trip to collect the creatures that lived in one of the several ecosystems of the region.  We would have a lunch packed by the cafeteria that consisted of three sandwiches – one with cheese, one with salami, and one with peanut butter and jelly.  We were all working very hard and these minimalist sandwiches were consumed with delight (although some trading was allowed) because we were ravenous.  When we got back to the lab, the strict rule was that the many creatures collected into vials, all numbered, must be transferred to bowls of fresh sea water before we could go to eat dinner.  It was in the context of hot, exhausting work and near starvation that I had the first experience with beer – and boy, did it hit the spot! 

 Q. Fame or Fortune? 

A: Fame, for sure, as it will promote my books, which I want very much for people to read.  So far as Fortune is concerned, I think it was Mae West who, when asked whether riches or poverty was better, said “I’ve been rich and I’ve been poor – rich is better.”  My personal preference is to not want for anything basic like food or housing, but I think having to plan and prioritize acquisitions while living within my budget is the best condition. 

Grab your copies of Stacia’s books here!

Check out the next book interview.

Rebecca Hendricks, the mastermind behind the Hound Dogged series, takes us on a rock-and-roll ride back to the 1950s—a time when jukeboxes ruled, and every teenager dreamed of making it big. In her debut novel, Hound Dogged, she introduces us to a group of friends who find themselves in the middle of the era’s wild musical revolution, facing off-stage drama as intense as their on-stage performances. With a perfect blend of humor, heart, and a whole lot of rhythm, Rebecca brings the fun and chaos of the ’50s to life. Today, we’re diving into the beats and backstories that make her series a toe-tapping hit!

Q What is your superpower?  

I don’t give up. Like everyone, I’ve had periods in my life that have knocked me down, but I always believe there’s a brighter day just around the corner.  

Q What got you into writing?  

I have been writing stories since I learned how to write. My earliest writing is a story I wrote for my father when I was six.   I’ve always had a vivid imagination and writing stories was my favorite way to express myself.  

Q If you could give your book to one person in the entire world to read, who would it be and why?  

I would like to give it to Paul McCartney because I think he would enjoy it and maybe have a laugh or two. 

Q How did you come up with your title? 

In the beginning of the book Hound Dogged, the band didn’t have a name. The character that comes up with their name is awkward and kind of goofy. I wanted to come up with something quirky like the character so off the top of my head I came up with Johnny and the Hound Dogs. I had planned on the group changing the name later on, but the name stuck and as the story progressed, I decided to keep the name. 

Q When did you decide to write this story and why? 

 I’ve been writing since I was six, and during my early teens, I spent a great deal of my free time writing a series about a rock-n-roll group.  I tried to rewrite the first book in the series later in life, but I eventually dropped the project. 

In the spring of 2021, I revisited the series and felt inspired to rewrite the first book again. Initially, I intended to do this just for myself, but my husband was insistent that he wanted to read the book.  I normally don’t share an unpolished piece of work with someone, but I relented and let him read it. 

He loved the book and pushed me to pursue getting published. I had tried to get published once before, and the experience was discouraging, so I wasn’t very excited about trying again. However, my husband was persistent in urging me to follow my dream. By the end of the year, he had convinced me, and I began looking into self-publishing. The rest is history. 

Q What has been your favorite comment/review so far about your book?  

This book beautifully depicts friendship and solidarity. I experienced feelings up and down as Stu discusses his relationship with James, peer pressure, and uncertainty. It masterfully explores loyalty and self-discovery, ending with Stu’s sorrowful revelation of his weaknesses. A captivating book for anyone who struggles with friendship and belonging, it helped me a lot. 

This review made my heart sing, affirming that the message I hoped to convey through my book had successfully reached its audience. 

Q What is something you learned while writing this book? 

I learned that the 1950s was more complex and interesting than I thought it was.  It’s about a lot more than bubblegum and sock hops. The 1950s were a period of significant cultural, social, and political change, setting the stage for the transformations of the 1960s. The decade was marked by events like the beginning of the Civil Rights Movement, the Cold War and the associated fear of nuclear conflict, the rise of consumer culture, and the early stages of the rock ‘n’ roll revolution. I found it to be fascinating.  

Q Who is your favorite character in your book?  

My favorite character in the Hound Dogged series is John Chandler. John is a free spirit who says and does what he wants. He’s not caught up in what other people think of him and he doesn’t conform to the rules. He is vibrant and confident with a quick wit. The rough exterior he shows to the world protects him from the hurt and disappointment inside.  

 Piano or Guitar? 

Guitar.. 

Coffee Mugs or Tea Cups? 

Mugs.

Cashmere or Silk?

Both.

Popcorn or Hot Dogs? 

Popcorn 

Scented Candles or Incence sticks? 

Scented Candles.

The city or the country? 

 Country.

Baking or Cooking? 

Baking.

Margarita or Cosmo? 

Cosmo

Holding a Puppy or Holding a Baby? 

Holding a Puppy. I love fur babies. 

Invisibility cloak or sparkling skin? 

invisibility cloak 

Find the series here on Amazon. Check out another book interview here.

In this candid interview, Lee Lindauer, author of The Salvation of Henry Maxwell, opens up about the inspiration behind his latest novel, the challenges of weaving intricate sub-plots, and the emotional depth that drives his storytelling. With a unique blend of suspense, Gothic romance, and character-driven narrative, Lindauer’s work promises to captivate readers who appreciate a story that tugs at the heartstrings while keeping them on the edge of their seats. Lindauer also shares his thoughts on what makes his book a must-read, the rituals that fuel his creativity, and even reveals his ideal casting for a potential film adaptation.

What makes your book a must-read? 

The Salvation of Henry Maxwell is a book that will move the reader as they experience the tormented life of a former horror movie star. It has a mix of emotions combined with suspense and a touch of Gothic Romance that leads to an unexpected finale. For those that love character driven novels, this is for you.

 

If you could give your book to one world leader, who would it be and why? 

Trump, maybe he’ll learn how to read and show empathy.

 

What was the hardest part of writing your book?

Trying to sequence the different sub-plots so that the timing and pacing made sense, and the tension would keep building. Rewrites and more rewrites helped in this regard.

  

What is the most enlightening/inspirational story you tell in your book? 

That love never dies. It is an emotion that is the glue that keeps us as decent human beings on a course to treating others with compassion and showing empathy in times of need.

  

One word that best describes you.

Trustworthy .

  

Any ritual like a specific scented candle, preferred writing place, or drink that you kept through writing?

Understanding that words just don’t appear out of thin air. They take time and revisions, and nothing wrong with not having a beer after choking out a few pages.

  

If there is a movie adaptation of your book, who do you think would be perfect for the lead roles? 

Robert DeNiro would make a great Henry Maxwell.

  

What can this teach to a motivated and mission-driven population of writers? 

New ideas are hard to come by. One author told me, everything has been done before. What separates a writer’s work is how they present it with a twist that only they can provide.

     

Who is your biggest writing inspiration? 

Hard to say. Dan Simmons comes to mind as being versed in so many different genres.

 Love or Money? 

  Love 

 Sky diving or Scuba diving? 

 Scuba diving

  Scented Candles or Incense?  

  Scented Candles

 Red Meat or White Meat? 

  Both

 Movie or TV Series? 

   Movie

  Long Walk or long car ride? 

  Long Walk 

  Comedy or Drama? 

  Drama 

  The city or the country? 

  Country 

 Baking or Cooking? 

  Cooking 

 Margarita or Cosmo? 

  Margarita 

Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in The Salvation of Henry Maxwell—a novel that skillfully blends suspense, emotion, and a touch of Gothic romance. Lee Lindauer has crafted a story that will not only captivate you with its intricate plot and well-drawn characters but also leave you pondering its themes of love, empathy, and redemption long after you’ve turned the final page. Pick up a copy and experience the journey for yourself—you won’t be disappointed.

Read your next book interview here.

  Interviewing Scott Ryan, author of The Last Decade of Cinema, is an intriguing journey into the mind of a passionate cinephile. Ryan, known for his candid and often provocative insights, shares his thoughts on everything from his ideal reader—Quentin Tarantino—to his disdain for internet reviews. In this interview, Ryan delves into the inspiration behind his latest book, his experiences interviewing iconic screenwriters, and his musings on the state of modern cinema. His responses are as engaging and unfiltered as his writing, offering a glimpse into his creative process and his unabashed love for the movies of the 90s. Whether discussing his favorite comments or his somewhat eccentric celebrity crushes, Ryan’s personality shines through, making this conversation as entertaining as it is enlightening.

Q If you could give your book to one person in the entire world to read, who would it be and why? 

This is your first question and I already love it. I would like to give my book to Quentin Tarantino. He is a big reason I wrote it, Pulp Fiction is covered in it, and I think Q would enjoy it. 

Q How did you come up with your title?   

 This was designed to be a provoctive title: The Last Decade of Cinema. I wanted people to start aruging with me immediatly and get them thinking about film and defending their choices. I think the other books that I wrote were too nice. I wanted a little contraversy with this one. In fact, if someone reading this could ban my book, that would be great. 

Q When did you decide to write this story and why?  

 It all started because I couldn’t find anything to stream one night. It was like every movie was either boring or was a remake of something I’d seen before. I wanted to shine a light on a time when movies were taking chances, and the norm was to be anything but normal.  

 

Q What has been your favorite comment/review so far about your book?  

 Wait? People are supposed to say nice things about your work? No one told me this. Honestly, I read nothing about my books. I don’t read internet comments, or Good Reads, or Amazon reviews. I stay away from the internet at all costs when it comes to looking for feedback. I always complete my books and just start on the next one. I try to focus on the work of it, not the rewards that come from it.   

 

Q What is something you learned while writing this book?  

 I learned that Helen Childress, who wrote the screenplay to the 1994 movie, Reality Bites, is as wonderful as I always hoped. I have wanted to interview her for thirty years. She wrote one of my top 5 movies of all-time and I always thought if I met her, that we could be best friends. Then I interviewed her for this book, and I know it’s true. Now, if someone could just explain that to her, we can begin our yearly vacations, she can help me move my couch, and I’ll drop her off at the airport when she needs a ride.  

  

Q Who is your celebrity crush?  

How much time do you have? Sheryl Lee is my life long crush. I fell in love with her from Twin Peaks and that lasts for life. There is also Jessica Williams, Jenna Coleman, Gillian Anderson, Fiona Apple, and Ariana DeBose. And let’s throw Denzel Washington in there as a Hall of Famer.  

  

Q Which fictional character would be most exciting to meet in real life?  

 Well, I feel like I should pick a character from a 90s movie to keep readers on track for buying my book, so I am going to go with Dr. Lowenstein from The Prince of Tides becasue that is as close as I am going to get in meeting Barbra Streisand.  

 

Q What is the most useless talent you have?  

 How did you know all my talents are useless? Who told you? Was it one of my family members? I wish I had the money making talent, that is what I should have studied for. Unforunately, I went the writing way and that has really been a useless talent. I’ll go with the fact that I can name every Billy Joel album in order and with the year of release. That seems useless. 

 

Q What got you into writing?  

 It was watching Moonlighting in highschool. I so wanted to create something that would make people laugh and think. I began writing and making my own movies and pretty much have never stopped. 

  

Rapid Fire Questions  

  Q. Coffee or tea? 

  Coffee

  Q. Dinosaurs or princesses?  

  Princesses (Mario’s Princess Peach please)

 Q. Laptop or phone? 

 Laptop. Phones are evil.

 Q. Mountain or Beach? 

 Mountain

 Q. Beer or Vodka? 

Vodka

Q. Fame or Fortune? 

 Fame

 Q. Love or Money? 

 Money

Q. Sky diving or Scuba diving? 

 You forget sitting at home.

  Q. Scented Candles or Inscense? 

  candles

  Q. Red Meat or White Meat? 

  White Meat

 

Grab your copy here!

Find another author interview here.

Did you know there were north of 283 million vehicles registered, as of 2022, in the United States? That’s up from more than 282 million the year before. 

If you’re like many drivers, your vehicle is a four-wheeled appliance needed to get from Point A to Point B. But some car owners love driving and don’t want to go the cookie-cutter route. So, even if they have a common four-cylinder vehicle, they may personalize it how they want.

While you might want to pursue modifications for your car, some options can be costly. The good news, however, is you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg. There are some easy and relatively cheap ways to personalize your vehicle. 

Here are five options to consider.

1. Seat Covers

You can switch up the look of your vehicle with some premium seat covers. It’s a cost-effective way to up the aesthetic appeal of the interior. But you’ll do more than just boost the interior oomph factor. Seat covers can also safeguard your investment by protecting the seats. They can protect the seats from UV damage, food or drink spillage, or the dirty paws of family pets. 

You can also select seat covers that fit your personality. Whether you want to play it safe or go all out, you can find the perfect seat covers for your car.

2. Custom License Plates

Another way to customize your car on a budget is to get custom license plates. You can make a big impact by being more unique with exterior changes like unique license plates. It’s one of those things that people notice first when seeing a car — so, why not do something different? Most people go with the regular license plates from your state. While nothing’s wrong with that, you can inexpensively personalize your vehicle with custom license plates.

A reputable provider of custom license plates will offer a wide range of options. You’ll also have the opportunity to get something based on unique ideas you may have if you don’t see what you want in its product lineup. Tap into your creativity to get something that stands out.

3. Steering Wheel Cover

Another way to personalize your vehicle is by getting a steering wheel cover. You can get them in various styles, materials, and textures. And, as you might expect, they’re relatively inexpensive. You find one that reflects your sense of style without breaking the bank. Depending on the steering wheel cover material, it may also make your steering wheel more comfortable.

4. Floor Mats

According to Fortune Business Insights, the worldwide automotive floor mat segment was expected to expand from $11.8 billion last year to $15.75 billion by 2030. That’s a 4.2% compound annual growth rate over the forecast period.

All-weather floor mats can be the perfect upgrade for your vehicle. They can also protect the carpet from dirt, mud, rain, snow, and other things that can wreak havoc on the interior. Considering the benefits of floor mats, they’re worth the investment. They can also boost the aesthetic appeal of your car’s interior.

5. LED Light Strips

You can personalize the inside of your car with some LED light strips. Chances are that you’ll be able to install them yourself since the setup process is relatively simple. You’ll get to customize the layout of the LED strip lights to give your vehicle a more modern look.

As you can see, there are some simple ways you can make a big impact on the look of your car. Personalization doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg to change up the look of your vehicle. Try one or more of these recommendations, or try something else to personalize your ride. For a more professional touch, consider services like dry ice detailing to thoroughly clean and rejuvenate your car’s exterior and interior.

 

Do you want to host a wine-tasting event? With so many people planning similar events, you must find a way to make yours unique and memorable. Your guests will certainly enjoy drinking wine, but you must plan effectively to meet the expectations of the guests you invite to the party. Whether you are a seasoned wine enthusiast or a novice, here are essential tips for hosting a perfect event.

 

1. Select a Theme

 

Themed parties are great since they create a unique experience for both hosts and guests. Therefore, planning a themed event is one of the simple tips to make your wine-tasting party stand out. Besides, the overall theme will guide you and other service providers, such as venue decorators, during the planning phase. Therefore, you should not rush when selecting a theme because it is the backbone of the event. A secret to choosing the right theme is making the guests the center of the event, determining what they will likely enjoy, and striving to meet their expectations. With the needs of your guests in mind, you can easily get quality wines that best fit your event.

 

2. Curate a Diverse Selection of Wines

 

Wine tasting involves guests sampling diverse wine collections and comparing aroma and taste. Therefore, the event can only be successful if you provide a variety of wines, preferably from different sources. Ideally, you need to have a few bottles of expensive wines so that the guest can have a chance to compare and contrast the affordable alternatives to the premium ones. Besides, you should include white, red, and sparkling options. Remember that some guests attending your event will search for wines they can use at home or for an upcoming party or celebration. It is, therefore, essential to provide diverse wine collections.

 

3. Provide Adequate Glassware and Accessories

 

A wine-tasting is an elegant activity that should make guests feel like royalty. However, to achieve this, you must consider the type of glassware and accessories they will use; these will be the first things your guests see. The accessories should ooze elegance and royalty, giving the event a positive vibe. Remember that everything you will be using counts, from the glasses and the corkscrew to the aerator, decanter, and wine stopper. Therefore, consider the quality and visual appeal when choosing these accessories.

 

4. Offer Guidance and Education

 

While many people have heard of wine and have tasted it, very few are knowledgeable on this subject. Therefore, you should enlighten your guests about wines and make your event educational. You can provide informative wine-tasting notes briefly describing each wine and its origin. If you are up for it, you can take your event a notch higher by inviting a professional in a live video call to guide you and your guests through the various wine selections. Create an atmosphere where the guests can ask questions without feeling awkward or out of place.

 

5. Pair With Complementary Foods

 

A common dilemma people hosting a wine-tasting party face is whether to serve a full-sit-down meal. Most guests at a wine-tasting event do not plan to eat, but the event might seem odd without something for the guests to eat. Consider serving small appetizers or complementary foods such as cheese, charcuterie, deviled eggs, and bruschetta. An important reminder when selecting complementary food is to pick the ones that pair well with the variety of wines you plan to serve.

 

A perfect wine-tasting party requires you to pay attention to details and plan carefully. You should also consider the needs and expectations of your guests and use these simple tips to improve their experience. A great wine event will make guests appreciate wine and want to explore further.

 

We’re diving into a conversation with the adventurous Doug Kari, a true-crime investigator who doesn’t just stick to the archives. Whether he’s laying in a shallow grave to connect with past tragedies, uncovering clues in Death Valley’s expanses, or navigating Mexico’s tough terrains to tell the stories of migrant refugees, Doug’s method is anything but conventional. Join us as we uncover the stories and motivations of this unique explorer and writer as his new book, The Berman Murders.

If your book was turned into a film/TV show, who would you tap to play the lead(s)? Why? 

Having my book The Berman Murders turned into a film isn’t something I dream about. But if I had to cast the leads, I’d pick Jesse Eisenberg and Jessica Chastain as the victims Barry & Louise Berman; Shia LaBeouf as the suspect Michael Pepe; and Bradley Cooper as the dogged deputy Leon Boyer. Their looks and vibes would fit the parts. 

What is the core message you want to deliver to the world through your writing/books/stories?

That sometimes – maybe even most of the time? – justice prevails. 

 What makes your book unputdownable? 

Because the plot twists are fantastical, yet real. 

 When did you decide to write this story and why? 

The case came calling on me in 2014. I was at my desk, thinking about Saline Valley, and how I’d like to write a story in that extraordinary setting. At that precise moment, a bird landed on the window screen, only a couple of feet away, gripping the mesh. As the bird stared in at me, I thought of Barry and Louise, who’d disappeared in Saline Valley many years earlier. 

What is something you learned while writing this book? 

That there are people in this world – Barry Berman being one of them – who have genuine disregard for wealth and its trappings. 

What has been your favorite comment/review so far about your book? 

Publisher’s Weekly called the book “a stirring account of [a] nine-year quest to crack an unsolved double murder in California’s Mojave Desert.” 

 If you were given a one-minute ad slot during the Super Bowl, what would you fill it with?  

 Video (G-rated, of course) of the clothing-optional hot springs in Saline Valley – there’s nowhere like it. 

 What would be your superpower?   

The ability to absorb and process information like a super-computer, but with human emotions and sensibilities. 

 If you had 3 wishes, what would you wish for? 

I wish for outcomes that perhaps I can help achieve, such as: justice for the victims in the cases I write about; meaningful lives for my children; positive outcomes for the people to whom I provide legal advice. 

What is your dream vacation?   

A lonely desert wherein lies a gripping tale of love, adventure, murder, and justice. 

 Rapid Fire Questions 

1. Long walk or long car ride?
2. A long walk to saturate my brain with oxygen.

 

1. Comedy or Drama?
2. Drama of course – after all, I’m a true-crime writer.

 

1. The city or the country?
2. The country because I scour the deserts of California and Nevada for stories to tell.

 

1. Baking or Cooking?
2. The elusive quest to bake the perfect loaf of sourdough bread.

 

1. Margarita or Cosmo?
2. A. Margarita, because I became friends with Roy Parodi, the husband of Margarita Henkel, who was the daughter of the German ambassador to Mexico. Roy and Margarita owned Hamilton Ranch, a large guest ranch near Ensenada. In October 1941, Roy and Margarita walked into to Hussong’s Cantina in Ensenada. In honor of his VIP guests, the bartender, Don Carlos Orozco, named his new drink after Margarita. Noe: After Roy passed away, his family gifted me some of his vintage clothing, including an embroidered tuxedo that I still wear on special occasions. https://eighteeneight.com/blog/the-tale-of-the-margarita/

 

1. Holding a Puppy or Holding a Baby?
2. A puppy – I’m head-over-heels in love with dogs.

 

1. invisibility cloak or sparkling skin?
2. Invisibility assuming my pad and pen are invisible too, so I can jot notes about what I’m seeing.

 

1. Coffee or tea?
2. Coffee, strong, at least twice a day.

 

1. Dinosaurs or princesses? 
2. Princesses abound, but dinosaurs in real life would be cool.

 

1. Laptop or phone?
2. Phone for photos, laptop for writing.

Make sure to check out The Berman Murders. For another author interview, click here.

Join us for an enlightening interview with Dr. Paul D. Corona, a trailblazer in psychiatry and family medicine from Southern California. Dr. Corona introduces “Mind and Body Healing” in his groundbreaking book, “The Corona Protocol,” challenging traditional mental health treatments and offering innovative solutions for complex societal issues.

Q. What is the core message you want to deliver to the world through your writing/books/stories in your self-help series? 

I want to convey that there is hope. There is a scientific basis for why people suffer with mental and physical illness. These reasons can be easily diagnosed and treated in safe and effective ways that are holistic and get to the core of the problem and cure the person from within. This leads to the feeling of self and feeling of health and wholeness. 

More information is that I want patients and doctors to read my books and to be able to not only help themselves but also others that they know need help, which is an exponential amount of people. There is so much suffering in our society and in the world that can be relieved by applying The Corona Protocol to their lives. 

 

Q. What makes your book unique?  

My book is unique because The Corona Protocol is my methods and ways of diagnosing and treating. I learned these methods through years of studying and treating patients in order to develop a protocol that works better than any other methods that I have come across. The Corona Protocol has been developed through over 30 years of practice with well over 50,000 hours and well over 150,000 patients’ visits. 

Expanding on what I said a bit further, what makes my protocol different than other methods is that I learned it differently. I learned it as a family doctor studying psychiatry on my own further than what we learned in training about mental illness. Those trained in psychiatry don’t appreciate the role that the physical body plays, thus the term Mind-Body Medicine. During the first 10 years or so of my practice I realized that I was doing things differently than what I was reading about. I decided that I could make a bigger difference in my patients’ lives by branching into this field of medicine rather than being a typical family doctor. Since I did not see other providers offering the same methods, I knew early on that I not only needed to do it but also to teach it, thus leading to the books. The impact that this protocol has on people’s lives is nothing short of astonishing. I have had many patients over the years who have seen many different providers, including psychiatrists, who never provided the results that I am able to provide within a relatively short period of time such as one to three visits. More complex patients may take 4 to 6 visits but that is still much quicker and with more complete results than with other providers who treat based on old paradigms. I love what I do since I see people’s lives changing dramatically in front of my eyes and many have told me that their lives have been saved because of my treatments. As a doctor there is no greater joy than making a difference in so many people’s lives. 

Q. Who/What is your biggest inspiration in your writing?  

My biggest inspiration is my patients. Seeing them suffer and then helping them to turn their lives around gives me great joy and satisfaction. Being aware that there is so much suffering which can be helped drives me to keep writing and to keep in active practice. Since I have also written two books intended to train doctors and other prescribers my greatest desire after this book is released is to put together a training program and release my next two books which are already written. 

 

Q. When did you decide to write the book and why?  

I decided to write this sixth book since I had already released my first three books’ series years ago and have finished my to teaching books, but then I realized that I needed to write another book and started about five years ago. I set out to write a book of stories. I love fiction and fantasy novels are my favorite genres. I have always wanted to write fiction, and this was my opportunity to share stories of people who struggle, some of them succeeding and some not. The harsh reality is that not all of the stories in this book and in life in general have a happy ending. 

  

Q. What has been your favorite comment/review so far about your book?  

I have had many positive comments about the book but the one that comes foremost to mind is that this book is a paradigm shift. My book introduces a completely different way of looking at things and doing things. What I write and teach is not found in any other book, whether textbook or otherwise. The paradigm shift introduced in this book is the ability to change the lives of countless people. 

 

1. If your book were turned into a film/TV show, who would you tap to play the lead(s)? Why? 

This is a tough question. Then Affleck or Vince Vaughn for me, Jennifer Lopez, or Phoebe Cates for my wife. 

 

Q. What is something you learned while writing the book?  

What I learned while writing this book is how much I enjoy writing fiction. I enjoy using my imagination, while also drawing on material from real patients that I have seen. I have continued to learn over the last 20 years of writing how much work goes into writing a book. 

 

Q. Give us the scoop about your next upcoming book.

After writing six books I don’t see myself writing another medical book for a while. I started writing a fantasy novel when I was in middle school, then several years ago I wrote more of it but then put it aside. I wanted to wait until the other books were written before going back to it. I have thought about the story for many years and know what I want to write but have not found the time and energy to devote to it. It will probably become a trilogy. I would like to ideally write it with another author such as a ghostwriter, someone who is better at writing than I am. 

 

Rapid Fire Questions 

Running or Hiking? – Hiking 

What is your favorite shower song? – When Doves Cry by Prince 

Red Meat or White Meat? – Tough questions since I love both, but I will have to go with red meat, white meat a close second. On further reflection white meat wins. I love chicken, pork and fish which includes my favorite King crab legs as well as lobster. I love steak and hamburgers, but white meat wins. 

Broccoli or Brussel Sprouts? –   Brussell Sprouts 

Tomatoes or Potatoes? – Potatoes  

Baked or Fried? – Fried 

Wine or Beer? – Beer. Easy answer. I have a.keg in a refrigerator in my backyard at my Tiki Bar 

Sky diving or Scuba diving? – Sky Diving though I have never done it either. I have always wanted to skydive. 

Fame or Fortune? – Fame, since I would be able to reach and affect more people in a positive way if me and my protocol were widely known. I want to make as big of a difference as I can and to help as many people as possible. 

Invisibility cloak or sparkling skin? – Invisibility cloak 

 Check out another author interview here.