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Citywide Blackout

citywideblackout

Citywide Blackout is the home for artists of all kinds, from filmmakers to musicians to authors and everything in between. The show also covers comic-cons, book expos, and film festivals.

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25 episodes
a few times a week
Avg 34 min
English

Episodes 25

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#553
Monday · 19 min
Dr. Candicee Childs shares the ‘Sweet & Sour’ of medical school
Dr. Candicee (pronounced Can-dee-see) Childs joins us to talk about her newest children’s book, “Cece's Sour & Sweet Journey to Medical School,” which encourages young readers to embrace perseverance, dream boldly, and see themselves in STEM and medicine. We talk about the unexpected origin of this book and the lengthy process as she shaped the story. The book is a children’s version of her Christian memoir “Lemons, Lemonade, and the Lemonade Stand: My Bittersweet Journey to Medical School,” and she shares how she adapted the tale for younger readers. We also learn about how she met the artist Setiawan and their collaborated for the illustrations. Dr. Childs also shares some advice for those looking to write their own children’s books and some of the guidance she received along the way. Like what you saw? Then check out https://www.candicee-childs.com.
#552
Friday · 27 min
A visit from Sisters of Black Mountain
Since I heard their recent single “Spirits of the Dead,” I have become a huge fan of Sisters of Black Mountain, so of course we had to have the band on the show. Cecilia Enriquez joins us to share how this amazing musical project got its start and the story of the aforementioned single and it’s amazing music video. Cecilia also talks about the perils of AI in music and offers her thoughts on the best ways to kick off a music project, grow it and make your mark. Wrapping up this episode is “Spirits of the Dead,” and you should definitely check out the music video. Like what you heard? Then head to https://linktr.ee/sistersofblackmountain for more!
#551
August 24 · 33 min
Taking to the streets with DB Stewart
DB Stewart has been songwriting since he got his first guitar at age 12, started volunteering at local shows at 14 and started his first band at 15. Today, he’s got a new single called “Love is Funny,” and the story behind it is amazing! We talk all about this, the folks he worked with and some unexpected surprises that happened. Back in April, DB released, “Take to the Streets,” a call to action inspired by the events of 2024. He also shares his take on the role that artists can play when it comes to speaking out about what matters to them. Closing out this interview is “Take to the Streets,” and the message is a powerful one. Like what you heard? Check out more at https://www.dbstewart.com.
#550
August 21 · 32 min
Mikel Wisler offers some first steps in film and writing
In the third part of our interview series with Mikel Wisler, we dive into the business of writing books and making movies. Mikel’s been doing this for awhile and there’s a lot to learn, especially for those just jumping in. Mikel and Max talk first steps for film and books, going from the idea stage to seeing your concept come to life. Mikel shares some mistakes to avoid and gives his take on the indie film industry in 2026. We also go over some insights into the many ways you can take your passion project and make it your new job. Visit http://www.mikelwisler.com/ for more. Episode 1– https://citywideblackout.podbean.com/e/mikel-wisler-returns-ai-and-human-trafficking-combine-in-proxy/ Episode 2– https://citywideblackout.podbean.com/e/mikel-wisler-talks-time-travel-thrillers-in-stop/
#549
August 14 · 23 min
Mikel Wisler talks time travel thrillers in "Stop"
We hope you enjoyed our last episode with filmmaker and novelist Mikel Wisler, because that was just the beginning. In this episode, we talk about his recently-released time thriller, “Stop.” Here’s a look at what’s in store: When Jake Howell returns to his childhood home after his mother's death, he finds a trove of his late father's research into six locations in rural Maine where time parts ways with our conventional understanding of physics. Among the notebooks and reels of 16mm film his father used to document in work is a twenty-year-old reel of film that Jake was never supposed to see. On the film: Jake—as he is now—attacking his own father the day he vanished. Determined to uncover the truth, Jake inadvertently draws the attention of local police. Now Jake must prove his innocence while trying to understand this radical breakthrough in physics. The deeper he goes, the more the real question surfaces: if the past is real and observable, can it be changed? And if it can, should it be? Mikel and I are a couple science nerds and we dive into the time travel that is used here and how it came to be. Mikel talks about the creation of Jake Howell and the paradox he finds himself stuck in. We also share how Mikel approaches the “big questions” and what has come from this exploration. Check out the last episode at https://tinyurl.com/ad7evynu. There’s more to come, so be sure to keep it here for Part 3, and visit http://www.mikelwisler.com/ for more!
#548
August 10 · 28 min
Jon Mullane shares stories from ‘The Road’
Canadian singer-songwriter Jon Mullane recently released his new five-song EP, “The Road,” a collection of music inspired in part from his trips to Nashville. Jon joins the show to talk all about that journey and the amazing artists he worked with, including Michael Delaney and Michael Jay. Jon also talks about his growth as an artist, in part from his many years working with musician and producer Creighton Doane. He shares some insight into starting out as a musician and how to overcome the many obstacles that come up. Closing out the interview is “Remember in November,” one of the tracks from “The Road.” And if you want to see more, visit www.jonmullane.com.
#547
August 7 · 34 min
Mikel Wisler returns! AI and human trafficking combine in “Proxy”
For longtime fans, Mikel Wisler is a real blast from the past. He was last on the show in 2019 and this time, we talked for so long, we decided to release it in three parts! This interview focuses on his soon-to-be-released short sci-fi thriller “Proxy,” released through Elzaon Films and debuting at Flickers Rhode Island International Film Festival on Aug. 8. Here’s a look at the story: “When an AI companion discovers that the woman whose body she now occupies is a victim of human trafficking, she fights to free the body surrogate before the man she was programmed to love destroys them both.” Mikel talks about the origins of the short film, which is being released as a proof-of-concept for a full-length feature. He shares his experience working with the cast and how they all adapted to their roles. We also shine a light on Diana Porter, who Mikel worked with as a co-writer and co-director for the film. There’s a lot more to come, so be sure to keep it here for Parts 2 and 3, and visit http://www.mikelwisler.com/ for more!
#546
August 3 · 27 min
Citywide Bytes—Catherine Marshall-Smith talks complex characters and book launches
Catherine Marshall-Smith (author of "American Family") recently released her second novel, “The Resilience of Red Thread” (She Writes Press), which follows a young mother fighting to save herself when her would-be rescuer proves to be as dangerous as the man she escaped. We talk about what first inspired the book, and how a lengthy period of research led to a significant re-write. Catherine shares the creation of Emily, Lee and Jake and how an abusive husband and would-be-rescuer have more in common than you might think. On July 26, Catherine had her big debut party and offers some tips for those about host their own launch party and really connect with the audience. Want to know more? Visit https://catherinemarshallsmith.com.
#545
August 1 · 36 min
Launching a new band? The Sirens offer some first steps
Kicking off a new musical venture has a lot of steps, and in this episode, we talk with Seattle/Tacoma artists Jody Ellen and Tara Chugh of the band The Sirens about some of the key first parts in the process. We also go into the different ways to grow this into a career, and how you balance the various aspects that can make it up. Jody and Tara share the story behind the band’s recent single, “Reverberations” and the themes found within the notes. They talk about how they first met and what happened to kick off this collaboration. We also get a sneak peek at a soon-to-be-released single later this summer. “Reverberations” wraps up this interview, and we hope you check out their other releases. Want to know more? Check out http://thesirensband.com/. Photo Credit: Skye Warden
#544
July 27 · 30 min
Linda Viens on music debuts….all over again
A longtime veteran of the music industry, Linda Viens of Girl With A Hawk joins me to talk about the band’s debut album, “Regenesis,” which was released back in June. Linda talked about how it felt to put out the album, done through Rum Bar Records. We also go into the sound of the album, as well as some of the songs and what they mean to her. Part of the album reflects on a life lived in bands, and Linda share some stories of her many years in music and how she and the band distilled those memories into “Regenesis.” There’s also a bit of a trip down memory lane to our past years in the local music scene, including that time she was putting up flyers…you gotta hear this! Linda also shares some advice for those about to embark on their own music debut journey, and how to get their message out for everyone to hear. Wrapping this up is "Share It All" from the debut album. Check out more at https://girlwithahawk.bandcamp.com/.
#543
July 24 · 37 min
Cleve Sylcox on writing 40-plus books
To say that Cleve Sylcox is an experienced writer is putting it mildly. Over the years, he’s penned 42 books, ranging from poetry to science fiction to mystery thrillers, and will soon release “The Weight of Nothing,” a collection of short stories on the topic of, well…nothingness. In this episode, Cleve and I talk about how he got his start as a writer and his early years learning the craft and the people who helped him. He goes into the story behind the story of “The Weight of Nothing” and the many tales contained within. We also talk a little business, and Cleve talks about the realities of making writing into a paying career and some ways to make it happen. He shares some tips on promotion and what keeps him going after all these years. Want to learn more? Visit www.clevesbooks.org for much more, and big thanks to Jeff Royds for making this happen!
#542
July 17 · 25 min
Staci Layne Wilson shares paths to making writing into a career
Turning writing from something you do after work to a full-time job can be a long and difficult journey, and in this episode, author Staci Lynn Wilson shares some insight into how fellow writers can make this happen. She also talks promotion options and the benefits of working with an editor or book group. Staci has a new book out now called “Murder in the House of Mirrors” through Crystal Lake Publishing. Here’s a look at the story: In the late 1970s, Los Angeles is gripped by terror as a shadowy figure known as The Looking Glass Killer unleashes a wave of brutal and enigmatic murders. Leaving antique hand mirrors with each victim, this relentless predator pursues a dark and twisted agenda, evading capture at every turn. Staci goes into the origin of the book and how it ties into her own upbringing, as well as creating a new world of serial killers. Get your own copy of the new book and her other titles at https://www.stacilaynewilson.com.
#541
July 10 · 1 hr 3 min
Book deals, movie deals, and writing advice with Jonathan Janz
In this episode, I welcome back author Jonathan Janz, and do we have a lot to talk about! It begins with a recent three-book deal that he signed with Weird Tales and Blackstone Publishing for his three upcoming titles—“Marla,” “The Stars Have Left The Skies” and “Panopticon.” We dive into all three books, what they’re about and the possibility of a connection between them. If that wasn’t enough, the audiobook for “Marla” is set to be released on Aug. 18, by the wife-and-husband team of Patricia Santomasso and Sean Patrick Hopkins. Jonathan and I talk about what makes a really good audiobook, particularly for the horror genre. And there’s more! “Marla” is in development for television, while both “The Stars Have Left The Skies” and “Panopticon” are headed for the big screen. We can’t share all the details now, but do talk a bit about where they are in the process. Jonathan also shares some business insight, including the importance of just writing, regardless of whether it’s your best, and a realistic look about making writing into a career. You can learn more about Jonathan and get his books at https://jonathanjanz.com.
#540
July 3 · 36 min
Want to jump into comics? Hear what Adam Tierney has to say
We’re talking all things comics on this episode, featuring “13 Demons Dead” by Adam Tierney and set to be released by IDW Publishing on Aug. 4. Here’s a peek at what lies within its pages: “Fourteen-year-old Everly “Ev” Espada was walking home one night when she spotted her favorite teacher, Father Serrano, suspended in midair, choking and being ripped apart by something she couldn’t see. Acting on pure instinct, Ev swings a nearby pipe and shatters the illusion, exposing a monstrous demon in the middle of her school. With one lucky shot, the creature is dead. And so is Ev’s normal life. By killing one of Earth’s Thirteen Hidden Demons, Ev has unknowingly triggered an ancient covenant. She’s been marked as the latest demon hunter, and the remaining twelve demons are already coming for her. The rules are simple and merciless: slay all thirteen within one year… or they will return more powerful, more vicious, and utterly unstoppable.” Adam, Max and Curtis talk about what went into developing the story, which was among Adam’s early forays into the world of comics. Adam shares what it was like working with the title’s artist Saspy, and how they brought his idea to life. From there, it’s all business, as Adam speaks honestly about the comics industry, imparts some advice on how to get started, and addresses the notion of it being “too late.” You can learn more at http://adamctierney.com
#539
June 29 · 24 min
Launching your music? Twayn has something to say about that
Getting your foot in the door of the music industry is a challenge, and in this episode, the musical duo of Twayn — twin sisters Hannah and Grace —share their advice, which includes taking the opportunities when they arrive. We talk their new single, “Wouldn’t It Be Better?” and the very personal experience that inspired it. Hannah and Grace recount their early years and how they came to be a band, and the many lessons learned on the road, particularly from the legendary Jools Holland. Wrapping this up is their new single, “Wouldn’t It Be Better?” Like the episode? Be sure to check out https://twayn.co.uk for new music, tour dates, and more.
#538
June 27 · 45 min
Finding your voice in writing with Darlene Koldenhoven
GRAMMY® Winner and three-time nominee Darlene Koldenhoven’s memoir, “Put Your Dress Down and Sing” (Sibylline Press), shows how a shy, introverted, Calvinist girl from the South Side of Chicago became known globally as the tambourine-waving choir nun in both “Sister Act” movies with Whoopi Goldberg and the featured soprano soloist in “Yanni, Live at the Acropolis,” the most popular PBS-TV Special and video seen by over 1.5 billion worldwide. And believe it or not, that’s just a portion of the amazing tales in this book. Darlene talks about the book’s origins and how she came to work with Sibylline Press. We go into the writing process, which took only a handful of months, and how she wound up needing to cut around 100,000 words from the manuscript! Darlene shares a few stories in the book, such as how the title came to be, her many years in music and the message she hopes to impart to readers. Want to pre-order your copy? Then head over to www.darlenekoldenhoven.com!
#537
June 22 · 31 min
Music and the state of the world with ChiodoSupply
Following his time with the legendary American punk band Model Citizen, ChiodoSupply has a new venture, but with the same vibe and message. In this episode, we’re going to talk about art and speaking to the state of the world, which is captured in his new single, “Homeland.” Chiodo and I also share the hard truths of the music industry, the use of artificial intelligence in making art, and give a few tips on getting your foot in the door. Wrapping up this episode is the single that got this all started, “Wandering and Wanting.” Like the episode? Then check out more of Chido at https://chiodosupply.com/.
#536
June 19 · 45 min
Mima Tipper connects with a legend in “Channeling Marilyn”
Just in time for the anniversary of Marilyn Monroe’s birthday, author Mima Tipper has released a new book, “Channeling Marilyn.” Here’s a look at what’s in store: High school senior Lexa Donovan longs to be more than a bit player in her own drab life—and when she’s chosen to be part of her school’s spring production of Bus Stop, she thinks her wish has come true. But her thrill turns to panic when she’s tapped to play the leading role, sexy showgirl Cherie. One thing tall, plus-size Lexa knows for sure is that she is the exact opposite of the most famous Cherie ever: sex-goddess Marilyn Monroe. Lexa wants out before she makes a fool of herself in front of everyone. But then something entirely unexpected happens: The spirit of Marilyn Monroe appears—ready and willing to be Lexa’s personal acting coach. Before the curtain rises on opening night, Lexa and Marilyn will have to learn to trust their own hearts and act on what each truly needs to move forward—in life and in death. Curtis and I talk all about the inspiration for this book, Mima’s second (so far!). She shares her interest in the legendary Marilyn and what she learned about her during the writing process. She talks about the creation of her protagonist, Lexa Donovan, and how the two interact. Mima also talks about the business of writing, offering her advice for taking feedback and the value of having someone to critique your work. She goes into the challenges of making writing into a business and the importance of really knowing the genre. If you like this episode, please check out www.mimatipper.com.
#535
June 15 · 29 min
Citywide Bytes—From the American West to outer space
Author Perrin Pring joins me to talk about her recently-released book, “Cash and Gravity” (Diversion Books), set in a world where everyone’s trying to get off it as quickly as possible. In this book, Chevy Cole is a female Launch Tech Marine who lives in a world where mega corporations battle each other for Earthly metals in the pursuit of one day getting humans permanently off planet. During a battle, Chevy comes across a crash site containing a super soldier, an Ace, who has the world's first mobile fusion device. Chevy knows her corporation stole it from their rival. She is forced to partner with Dolon, a phantom, a man so analogue he can use cash and navigate by paper map, to get them to a safe house, thrusting them on a low-tech, high-stakes road trip across the American West. We’re going to talk all about the worldbuilding and character creation that went into this as well as the many re-writes and how this changed the story. Perrin also talks a little shop and shares some advice for fellow debut writers. Like what you heard? Then check out www.psquaredbooks.com for more!
#534
June 12 · 34 min
Making money and being flexible in music
Following our talk about new music and the New England Americana Fest, Boston-based musician Kier Byrnes of Kier Byrnes & The Kettle Burners stuck around to talk a little business—specifically, the music business. In this episode, we go into the things he thinks musicians should stop doing, as well as the different ways that they can make a living—and it’s more than just selling merch or tickets. Kier shares some really important advice, such as not waiting for things to be perfect, because that’s never going to happen. We talk a little gear talk, and Kier gives some ideas as to what an aspiring musician could buy with $100. We also look ahead to what new opportunities lie ahead for musicians and examine the notion of it being “too late” to get your start. Closing this episode out is “Goin’ Down in Style,” one of songs from the band’s new EP, ““Moonshine & Other Spirits.” Want to know more? Visit https://www.kierbyrnes.com to check it all out!

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