Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino: 2025

Friday, April 11, 2025

Communication Scientist, Entrepreneur & Executive Coach Meaghan Kane Benjamin on Influence, Storytelling & Leadership

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we speak with Communication Scientist, Entrepreneur, and Executive Coach Meaghan Kane Benjamin.

Meaghan empowers leaders to master the art and science of influence, strategic storytelling, and authentic human connection. Drawing from her deep background in neuroscience, systems thinking, and performance communication, she transforms how executives and entrepreneurs show up in high-stakes settings—from boardrooms to pitches.

She is also the co-creator of PitchCraft, a proven methodology designed to help leaders craft powerful, persuasive pitches that resonate, inspire, and drive meaningful action.

We explore Meaghan’s inspiring journey—from the evolution of her career and the birth of her business, to the thought leadership behind her books, podcasts, and coaching practice. It’s a deep dive into the communication skills that elevate modern leadership. Enjoy the conversation.

🔗 More on Meaghan: studioreinvent.com

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A Dream Jazz Journey: Tracey Ostebo on Her Father John McKergow's Trip to Kansas City for International Jazz Day 2025

Welcome to a very special edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. In this moving episode, we talk with Tracey Ostebo, daughter of super jazz fan John McKergow, about their incredible journey to Kansas City for International Jazz Day 2025.

Based in Mountain View, California, Tracey has been streaming our podcast nightly to her father—who lives with dementia in Cedar Park, Texas—using Apple’s “share my screen” feature. Over the last year and a half, this ritual has become a cherished way for them to connect and wind down each day through the power of jazz storytelling.

John, a lifelong Count Basie enthusiast, often shares heartfelt reflections after each episode, expressing wonder, appreciation, and joy. Inspired by a touching fan letter from Tracey, and through the efforts of Anita Dixon of UNESCO Creative City, John’s dream of attending a live Count Basie Orchestra performance is coming true.

🎷 On April 30, 2025, at the Kansas City Music Hall, John will witness a historic celebration of 90 Years of Count Basie's Swing—a night filled with unforgettable music, honors, and community spirit.

🎧 In this episode, we speak with Tracey about her father’s love for jazz, their emotional journey, and what this dream trip means to them both. It’s a story of music, memory, and magic.

🎟️ Get Tickets: countbasieanniversary.com

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Sam Sadigursky – Veteran Jazz Clarinetist on The Solomon Diaries: Volumes IV & V

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. In this episode, we speak with veteran jazz clarinetist and composer Sam Sadigursky about his compelling new release, The Solomon Diaries: Volumes IV & V.

This deeply expressive project blends Jewish spiritual and Klezmer traditions with post-minimalist classical, jazz, and elements of American folk music. Collaborating with multi-instrumentalist Nathan Koci, Sam delivers an evocative soundscape that is both modern and timeless.

With 11 critically acclaimed albums as a bandleader and performances on over 60 recordings—including Grammy-nominated and award-winning projects like David Byrne’s Here Lies Love—Sam is a powerhouse in today’s jazz and contemporary music scene. A member of the Philip Glass Ensemble, he’s also collaborated with Brad Mehldau, Bruce Hornsby, and U.S. Poet Laureate Robert Pinsky.

🎶 Explore his journey, live performance insights, and the story behind The Solomon Diaries.
https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/joe-dimino/episodes/Sam-Sadigursky--Veteran-Jazz-Clarinetist-on-The-Solomon-Diaries-Volumes-IV--V-e31e69r

🔗 Get the albums: samsadigursky.bandcamp.com

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Thursday, April 10, 2025

Author Chancellor Jackson on The Power of Becoming: Seven Pillars of Growth & Empowerment (2025)

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. In this episode, we welcome back author and motivational speaker Chancellor Jackson to discuss his powerful new 2025 release, The Power of Becoming: Seven Pillars of Growth & Empowerment.

This transformative book is a collection of life-affirming quotes, personal insights, and practical wisdom designed to help readers:

Break free from limiting beliefs
Cultivate healthy relationships
Build lasting self-worth and confidence
Navigate adversity with strength

Chancellor’s work is more than just a motivational read—it's a personal blueprint for empowerment, growth, and healing. We explore the inspiration behind the book, his continued evolution as a thought leader, and how his writing is helping people reclaim their power and purpose.

📘 Grab your copy: The Power of Becoming on Amazon

🎧 Tune in for a deep, inspiring discussion on personal development, mindset, and transformation.
https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/famous-interviews/episodes/Author-Chancellor-Jackson-on-The-Power-of-Becoming-Seven-Pillars-of-Growth--Empowerment-2025-e31dlf5

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John Wandzilak – Mixed-Media Illustrator & Creator of Bolt Voltage: Out Of Sync

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. In this episode, we talk with John Wandzilak – also known as JDubs – a mixed-media illustrator, storyteller, and creator of the graphic novel series Bolt Voltage: Out Of Sync.

Launched during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bolt Voltage is a post-apocalyptic sci-fi story that follows a curious robot navigating emotional awakening and rediscovery in a broken world. Through rich visuals and meaningful themes, JDubs uses his art to help creatives, dreamers, and fans of graphic novels reconnect with wonder and imagination.

We dive into John’s artistic journey, the origin and evolution of Bolt Voltage, and how he’s building a community around storytelling, visual art, and emotional depth.

🎨 Listen in for an inspiring conversation about creativity, resilience, and the power of visual storytelling.
https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/famous-interviews/episodes/John-Wandzilak--Mixed-Media-Illustrator--Creator-of-Bolt-Voltage-Out-Of-Sync-e31dldn

🔗 Explore John Wandzilak’s work: jdubsarts.com

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John Hamilton – Author, Musician & Pastor on Creativity, Crisis & Spiritual Awakening

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. In this episode, we talk with John Hamilton – an author, musician, and pastor whose life journey is as powerful as it is unconventional.

Born into a vibrant Irish-American family of singers and storytellers, John broke away from his strict Catholic roots to pursue a music career that led him through the gritty world of rock clubs, addiction, and anxiety. After a severe panic disorder derailed his musical path, he pivoted to the advertising world, rising as a successful creative director.

But despite his achievements, John remained on a spiritual quest—one that eventually led him to seminary and over 20 years in parish ministry. His latest book, Honest to God, explores the collapse of mainstream Christianity, his personal loss of transcendence, and a raw, reflective journey into the spiritual wilderness.

🎙️ Tune in for an extraordinary story of transformation, creativity, faith, and rediscovery.
https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/famous-interviews/episodes/John-Hamilton--Author--Musician--Pastor-on-Creativity--Crisis--Spiritual-Awakening-e31dlcr

🔗 Learn more about John Hamilton: therealjohnhamilton.com

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Paul Tembunde – Business Executive, Transformation Coach & Entrepreneurial Mentor

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. In this powerful episode, we speak with Paul Tembunde – a seasoned business executive, transformation expert, coach, and mentor, based in the Washington, D.C. Metro Area.

With over 20 years of entrepreneurial experience, Paul blends practical business strategies with powerful mindset coaching to help individuals and organizations achieve meaningful, sustainable success. He is the co-founder of both a thriving homecare agency franchise and Premiere Destiny LLC, where he mentors aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders.

From his early days as a credit-card-funded entrepreneur to becoming an industry leader, Paul shares his inspiring journey to America, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and how he empowers others to reach their full potential.

🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation about business growth, mindset mastery, and transformational leadership.
https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/famous-interviews/episodes/Paul-Tembunde--Business-Executive--Transformation-Coach--Entrepreneurial-Mentor-e31dlbt

🔗 Learn more about Paul Tembunde: premieredestiny.com

The Home of Famous Interviews: http://famousinterviewswithjoedimino.blogspot.com/

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Alex McLaughlin | Jazz Bassist, Composer & Program Director on 2025 Album A Brand New State

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. In this episode, we chat with jazz bassist, composer, and educator Alex McLaughlin, as he shares insights into his new 2025 album A Brand New State, his journey in music, and his evolving role as an artist and mentor.

In addition to being a dynamic performer and composer, Alex was recently named Jazz Program Director at Idyllwild Arts Academy, a prestigious international arts boarding high school near Los Angeles. His voice on the double bass reflects a deep foundation in jazz tradition and a refined understanding of the European classical canon, shaped by a unique blend of influences and training.

We explore his creative process, teaching philosophy, and what it means to lead the next generation of jazz musicians.

🎶 Tune in for a rich conversation about music, education, and the spirit of innovation in jazz.
https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/joe-dimino/episodes/Alex-McLaughlin--Jazz-Bassist--Composer--Program-Director-on-2025-Album-A-Brand-New-State-e31djqe

🎧 Get the new album: A Brand New State by Alex McLaughlin

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Wednesday, April 9, 2025

Sonal Kalra – Founder of CONNECT Meditation & Mindfulness Teacher

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. In this enlightening episode, we speak with Sonal Kalra – certified meditation teacher, life coach, and founder of CONNECT Meditation.

Raised in India and now based in Boston, Sonal brings a unique perspective by blending ancient Eastern wisdom with modern science to make mindfulness and meditation more accessible, relatable, and practical for today’s individuals and organizations. With a background in corporate HR, learning and development, and coaching, she deeply understands the stresses of modern life and how meditation can be a transformative solution.

We dive into her journey, the mission behind CONNECT Meditation, and the powerful impact of mindfulness in both personal and professional settings.

🧘 Discover practical mindfulness, inspired teaching, and the power of presence.
https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/famous-interviews/episodes/Sonal-Kalra--Founder-of-CONNECT-Meditation--Mindfulness-Teacher-e31cd0d

🔗 Learn more about Sonal Kalra & CONNECT Meditation: connectmeditation.com

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Brand Strategist & Marketing Expert Ethan Decker on Brand Science & Effective Advertising

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. In this episode, we talk with Ethan Decker – a leading brand strategist, marketing expert, and founder of Applied Brand Science.

With a background in science and two decades of award-winning work in brand strategy, advertising, and market research, Ethan is a global authority on the science of brand growth, consumer behavior, and evidence-based marketing. He teaches marketing leaders and their teams how to break away from fads and misinformation using his proven framework: The Laws & Levers of Brand Science.

Through global workshops and consulting, Ethan helps companies become more effective, efficient, and confident in their branding and advertising strategies. We dive into his unique journey, his scientific approach to marketing, and the tools that drive real brand impact in today’s noisy marketplace.

🎧 Listen in for powerful branding insights and a fresh perspective on what really works in marketing.
https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/famous-interviews/episodes/Brand-Strategist--Marketing-Expert-Ethan-Decker-on-Brand-Science--Effective-Advertising-e31ccvb

🔗 Learn more about Ethan Decker: appliedbrandscience.com

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Alan McLaren – CEO, Founder & Personal Branding Expert

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. In this episode, we speak with Alan McLaren – CEO, founder, and leading personal branding expert. As the Co-Founder of STRATA Originals, Alan helps shape and amplify the public presence of CEOs, executives, entrepreneurs, and legal professionals through strategic and authentic branding.

With over 20 years of leadership experience across public companies, partnerships, and startups, Alan brings a powerful combination of vision, business acumen, and personal insight. In just the past two years, he has coached or trained more than 600 CEOs, helping them build stronger, more intentional personal brands.

We get into his career journey, the mission behind STRATA Originals, and why personal branding is essential for modern leaders.

🎙️ Discover what it takes to stand out, lead authentically, and build a brand that lasts.
https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/famous-interviews/episodes/Alan-McLaren--CEO--Founder--Personal-Branding-Expert-e31cctl

🔗 Learn more about Alan McLaren and STRATA Originals: strataoriginals.com

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Business Owner, Author & Speaker Bob Wendover on Decision-Making, Productivity & Leadership

Welcome to another edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. In this episode, we sit down with Bob Wendover – a veteran business owner, acclaimed author, researcher, and dynamic speaker with over 37 years of workplace expertise.

Bob is the award-winning author of 13 books, including Figure It Out, High Performance Hiring, and Crossing the Generational Divide. His client list spans the Fortune 500, and his insights have helped countless professionals navigate hiring, leadership, and intergenerational collaboration.

We dive deep into his latest book, Overcoming Overwhelm – a practical guide designed to help busy professionals reclaim time, energy, and clarity by making fewer, smarter decisions each day. Beyond his work, Bob shares about life as a husband, father, hiker, cyclist, and traveler, living with intention and balance.

🎧 Tune in for practical advice, real-life stories, and productivity insights from a business veteran.
https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/famous-interviews/episodes/Business-Owner--Author--Speaker-Bob-Wendover-on-Decision-Making--Productivity--Leadership-e31ccsr

🔗 Learn more about Bob Wendover: commonsenseenterprises.net

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Towner Galaher on the New 2025 Album Brothers & Jazz Organ Trio Revival

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series featuring seasoned jazz drummer and composer Towner Galaher. In this episode, we explore his brand-new 2025 album Brothers — his fifth release, and one that brings him back to his roots in Portland, Oregon.

Reuniting with longtime collaborators organist Jimmy Sanders and bassist Randy Monroe, this album marks a soulful return to the musicians who helped shape his early sound on recordings from 1979 and 1980. Brothers rewinds time to the golden era of the 1970s, echoing the gritty, funky vibes of Tower of Power, Herbie Hancock’s Headhunters, and the timeless groove of jazz organ legends like Jimmy Smith and Jack McDuff.

We dive into the making of the album, his creative process, upcoming live shows, and reflections on a career rooted deeply in rhythm, soul, and jazz tradition.

🎧 Experience the sound of a modern jazz organ trio with vintage roots.
https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/joe-dimino/episodes/Towner-Galaher-on-the-New-2025-Album-Brothers--Jazz-Organ-Trio-Revival-e31bv2f

🎶 Get the album here: Brothers by Towner Galaher

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Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Teacher, Author & Peace Corps Veteran Paul Burnore

Welcome to another edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. In this compelling episode, we speak with Paul Burnore – a seasoned teacher, author, and Peace Corps veteran with a global footprint and a remarkable career spanning literature, education, tech, and international development.

Originally from South Bend, Indiana, Paul earned degrees in English Literature from Indiana University and began his journey as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Thailand. His passion for literature and education led him to teaching roles at Indiana University and institutions in Iran and Greece. He later joined IBM, holding various management positions before returning to the Peace Corps as the first Country Director of Kazakhstan.

Paul also served as the USAID Director of Enterprise Restructuring in Russia before returning to IBM as Asia Pacific Director of Software Developers in Jakarta, Indonesia. From his current home in Florida, we talk about his latest book, No Flight Plan (2025), and reflect on his inspiring life story.

📚 Discover a life of adventure, service, and global leadership.
https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/famous-interviews/episodes/Teacher--Author--Peace-Corps-Veteran-Paul-Burnore-e31agnj

🔗 More about Paul Burnore: ulysses48.com

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