GoodEnough

Sam & Mark

Mark & Sam talk to interesting people who have a story to tell.
Focus on art, lifestyle, entrepreneurship.

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33 episodes
Updated Yesterday

Episodes33

Newest first

Yesterday · 50 min
Herman Johansen
In this episode, Mark and Sam talk to Herman Johansen about his new book, Las Cruces: Blood Relative. When he is not writing he is an avid hiker, Herman has trekked up several of Colorado's Fourteeners and has done significant hikes in several states. Traveling is another passion, and he has visited parts of Asia, South and Central America, Mexico, and many countries in Europe. He is a sucker for anything that flies and has been airborne in everything from a vintage open-cockpit canvas plane to a hot air balloon, a glider over the Pacific, and under a parachute. In addition to acting, he has extensive directing, writing, and casting credits in theatre and film. Herman's training, intensity, and dry humor have led to highly praised performances of richly flawed and complex characters. In 2019, he was given the 'best actor' award at the Chesapeake (Baltimore) Film Festival for his work in The Land. Herman is originally from Billings, Missouri, and now lives in Albuquerque, NM, having spent several years in Kansas City and Los Angeles. And he's always ready to talk about his grandchildren...
January 10 · 40 min
Jordan O'Halloran, Author of "This Is Not A Novel"
In this episode, Mark and Sam have Jordan back on the GE to talk about her new book, "This Is Not A Novel". It is a collection of short stories. Think Roald Dahl meets Steven King. We talk about where ideas come from. We discuss how she developed her characters. And what may be next for her.
Oct 3, 2025 · 45 min
Tom Lincoln
In this episode, Mark and Sam talk with Tom Lincoln. Tom Lincoln was born in Pasadena, California, in 1950 and was raised in Glendale. He graduated high school and attended the College of Idaho until 1971 when he enlisted in the U.S. Army. He completed army basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and then received advance training at the Defense Information School at Fort Benjamin Harris near Indianapolis. Upon graduation he was assigned to the military newspaper, Pacific Stars and Stripes, in Tokyo in November of 1971. While there he became a special assignment reporter and traveled throughout Asia for most of his time at the paper. He worked as the paper’s South Korea bureau chief and did additional reporting from the Philippines, Thailand and Okinawa. After leaving the army in 1974, Tom moved to San Francisco and worked as a freight delivery driver. In July of 1975 he moved to Lake County and took a job as reporter/photographer for the Lake County Record-Bee. In November of 1977 he was invited into the insurance business and made a 42-year career, retiring in February of 2019. Along the way he also spent several years as an on-call fixed wing air ambulance pilot and charter pilot. He and his wife Ruth live in Lakeport and now enjoy watching their nine grandchildren and two great grandchildren grow and enjoy life.
Sep 11, 2025 · 51 min
Patti Diene, Author of "Wild Flower"
Mark and Sam talk with author Pattie Diener about the craft of writing a novel and getting it publishing. She has a new book out called, "Wild Flower". Here is what Amazon has to say about it. A captivating story about a young woman's tenacious journey on finding love, acceptance, and a sense of home, in a world that constantly tries to tear her down. She’s smart, talented, and remarkably beautiful…but utterly alone. Charlie Kane desperately wants to leave her turbulent home. An intellectual outcast, her only outlet is creating illegal street art, when she’s not busy cleaning up her drunken mother’s messes. With dreams of freedom, and painting, she’s tough, but wants to feel safe, to belong, and maybe even loved. But hope is a dangerous thing. Jack Connors left a dead-end job working for a tabloid magazine in Los Angeles. While housesitting in Northern California, he’s deciding on his next career move, dreaming of writing. Before taking a short-term job, Jack is acquainting himself with the small town, and meets a beautiful girl on the coastal streets. When Charlie and Jack meet, they have instant chemistry, but Charlie is spooked by how much she likes him, and bolts before they exchange names. When they later discover a disheartening truth— that she’s a high school senior, and he’s her substitute teacher— they are crushed. They can’t be together. Forging through heartbreaks, loneliness, and her mother’s bad choices, Charlie struggles to find her worth. And through years of bad timing, career aspirations, and geographical distance, Charlie and Jack share a powerful, but often strenuous relationship. In this coming-of-age story, about mothers and daughters, about addiction and redemption, and forbidden love and romance, is the evolution of a girl blossoming into a woman, who will stop at nothing to build a better life
Aug 22, 2025 · 51 min
Jackie Balestra, author of "The Rockaway Chronicles"
In this episode, we have a returning guest. Jackie Balestra was on the 5th episode of GoodEnough. At that time she shared with us her adventures in RVing during COVID. This time Jackie is talking about her wonderful new book, "The Rockaway Chronicles". This is a year by year collections of memories and the characters she encountered as a child and teenager during her families' summer vacations. Maybe this ends up as a TV series?
Jun 19, 2025 · 48 min
David Rosenfeld, Author and Substack Journalist
This week Mark and Sam talk with journalist and author, David Rosenfeld. We talk about the craft and process of writing. Is it pen or keyboard? Where inspirations come from. Who are his journalistic/literary heroes. David teases his his new novel he is working.
Apr 24, 2025 · 49 min
AJ Humphreys, Author of "Trip" and owner of Dark Journeys Publishing
In this episode, Mark and Sam discuss AJ Humpreys' new novel, "Trip" and his new publishing company, Dark Journeys Press. This one is not for the squeamish. And the word "fuck" is used liberally. AJ Humphreys is an emerging author of thrillers, horrors, and mysteries and a 2024 addition to the Horror Writer's Association. The four-part Season of The Monster saga has served as his debut within the publishing world. Not one to fear going against the grain, Humphreys ditched the corporate world in 2021 for the food service industry, permitting him more time to focus on the haunting tales his mind conjures. When AJ isn't writing, it’s a safe bet he’s outdoors and his best pal, Kobe The Husky, is somewhere nearby.
Mar 6, 2025 · 48 min
Chris Lawler, Author of , "The Strand Between Us"
In this episode, Mark and Sam talk with author Chris Lawler about his new book, "The Strand Between Us". The discussion cover the art and craft of writing a novel with some local South Bay stories thrown in. From Amazon: Kel Robinson graduated from High School without a clue of what comes next. His parents have sold the house he grew up in and are moving to Idaho. Kel is determined to stay in the beach towns he loves. All he has to work with is a small financial stake from his father, a best friend to mooch from and the lingering agnst for a girl he loved but never spoke to for all four years of school. The quest to connect to this high school crush takes him on the ride of a lifetime through the streets of the South Bay and the underbelly of a reality show production. If you ever lived in the South Bay you will know every street and landmark. All your memories will be stirred with emotion as you follow Kel to his destiny. Peppered with characters you will never forget and situations that will have you in stiches, The Strand Between Us will keep you up at night turning pages.
Feb 6, 2025 · 46 min
Julie Navickas, Author of "I loved you Yesterday"
In this episode, Mark and Sam talk with Julie Kavickas about what it takes to write a romance novel. Julie Navickas is a best-selling and award-winning, nationally recognized contemporary romance novelist, known for her keen ability to tell heart-wrenching, second-chance love stories through relatable characters with humility, humor, and heroism. She is also an award-winning university instructor in the School of Communication at Illinois State University and serves as the executive director of The Writing Champions Project. Julie earned master’s degrees in both organizational communication and English studies with an emphasis in book history, as well as a bachelor’s degree in public relations, graduating cum laude from Illinois State University. She is a mom of three, a dog mom of two, and has been happily married to her high school sweetheart for eleven years.
Jan 16, 2025 · 50 min
Jordan O'Halloran
In this episode, Mark and Sam talk to Mark's friend Jordan O'Halloran the author of "Clean Up In Aisle Three". Jordan lives in Northern California with her partner, cat, and roommate. She is addicted to the smell of books, bright colors, and caffeine. A huge advocate for mental health and kindness, she spends every waking moment thinking of the perfect first line. When not writing, you can find her eating cheese, painting, or sleeping. Find Jordan's book here. https://a.co/d/100Q9U6
Dec 16, 2024 · 40 min
Vivian Kong-Doctora, Entrepreneur, Restaurateur, Author.
In this episode, Mark and Sam talk with Vivian Kong-Doctora. She is an entrepreneur, restaurateur, and author of "Life of Bao". Her new restaurant is the Kobe Revolving Sushi Bar.
Oct 10, 2024 · 52 min
Good Enough: Sara Schulting Kranz, Author, Life and Trauma Coach
In this episode, Mark and Sam talk with Sara Schulting Kranz. Sara is an authority in resiliency and leadership. She is the founder and guide of life-changing wilderness retreats in the Grand Canyon and Alaska. As a motivational speaker, workshop facilitator, TedX speaker on forgiveness, author, and executive producer of a documentary in production, Sara found herself "starting again" at age 40 after experiencing multiple traumas. At 49, she's built a thriving business, sharing her story while inspiring others to live on purpose. Link to her book: Walk Through This https://www.amazon.com/Walk-Through-This-Harness-Forgiveness/dp/0785238654/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2JFAERC9X1XKG&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.zAP1OlaQ6BWS_tn8LaeCIg.Gg_-jbDja2P5xUOCr8T4Vhg4mtQzzbUg8klKuokJHbA&dib_tag=se&keywords=Sara+Schulting+Kranz&qid=1728596215&sprefix=sara+schulting+kranz%2Caps%2C138&sr=8-1
Sep 12, 2024 · 53 min
Derek Story, HR Evangelist, AI Thought Leader
In this episode, Mark and Sam ask Derek Story if AI will kill us all. Derek is a thought leader on the use of AI in HR. He is currently the Director of HR Systems, Training, and Communication at Illinois State University. During his time at ISU he has been responsible for continuity of HR technology, learning and development for campus, and staff recruiting and orientation. Before joining Illinois State University, Derek had experience as a professional recruiter at the global staffing firm TEKSystems. He is a two-time Illinois State University alum, having received both his Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees from ISU. He teaches courses at Illinois State University and Illinois Central College in message design, public speaking, and business information systems. He is also a board member of the Bloomington/Normal Human Resources Council and an active member of the Higher Education User Group for Oracle Technologies and the College and University Professionals Association.
Aug 15, 2024 · 52 min
Jen Ruiz, Author of "12 Trips in 12 Months"
In this episode, Mark and Sam talk with best selling author, Jen Ruiz. Jen Ruiz is a lawyer turned full-time travel blogger and author. She is a 3-time TEDx speaker, 6-time bestselling author, and multi award winning travel journalist. Jen has been featured in Forbes, The Washington Post, and ABC News and is the solo female traveler behind Jen on a Jet Plane. You can find her blog here: https://jenonajetplane.com/ Buy her book here: 12 Trips in 12 Months https://www.amazon.com/12-Trips-Month...
Jul 25, 2024 · 47 min
Professor Jim Jawahar, Author of "Thrive!: The Psychology Behind Achieving Professional Success"
In this episode, Mark and Sam talk to professor Jim Jawahar about his new bool "Thrive!: The Phycology Behind Achieving Professional Success." If you want to jump start your career, you need to read this book. Dr. Jim Jawahar (jimjawahar1@unm.edu) received his Ph.D. degree from Oklahoma State University in Human Resource Management and Organizational Behavior. Jim served in several administrative leadership positions including as Associate Provost at Illinois State University. He is currently serving as Chair of the Department of Management at the University of New Mexico. He served as the Editor of Career Development International (2007-2022) for fifteen years and continues to serve on editorial boards of several journals. He has received several awards (e.g., SHRM Research Award) and Professorships (e.g., University Professor, Jack & Donna Rust Professor) for his accomplishments. Jim’s research interest areas include performance appraisal, job performance, and career issues. Jawahar has published nearly 100 peer-reviewed journal articles and some of his research has appeared in journals, such as the Academy of Management Review, Journal of Applied Psychology. Personnel Psychology, Journal of Management, Journal of Business and Psychology, Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology, Human Relations, Group and Organization Management, Journal of Managerial Psychology. Career Development International, and Journal of Vocational Behavior. You can contact Dr. Jawahar at: Department of Management, Anderson School of Management, 3070 MCM, The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, USA.
May 13, 2024 · 52 min
Matt George, Author of "Nonprofit Game Plan
In this episode, Mark and Sam talk with the CEO of the Children's Home Association of Illinois and the author of Nonprofit Game Plan. In Nonprofit Game Plan, Matt reveals the real story of nonprofits, the one no one talks about: they are the world's best defense against the gnawing grind of social decay, poverty, homelessness and crime. Whether he's breaking tennis world records, partnering with star athletes or making deals with Fortune 500 companies, George demystifies nonprofit management while inspiring a new generation to take up the mantle of social service. What emerges is a strong case that non-profits ought to run like businesses, not charities. Though it might ruffle some feathers, the message is a wake-up call that's sure to radicalize the nonprofit world.
Apr 12, 2024 · 46 min
Dave Moravec, author of "Echoes Across the Tracks"
In this episode, Mark and Sam talk to Sam's friend Dave Moravec who has just published a new book called Echoes Across the Track. Dave Moravec is an accomplished business leader with over 40 years of experience in a variety of industries, including educational technology and printing. A Chicago native transplanted in Cincinnati, Dave’s consultative approach to fractional sales management and chamber of commerce growth has him in high demand as a respected speaker, storyteller, and entrepreneurial therapist. Dave currently serves as President and CEO of the Colerain Chamber of Commerce and consults with clients as Sales Manager for Rent. Link to Dave's book. https://www.amazon.com/Echoes-Across-Tracks-Unexpected-Connections/dp/1506911870/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3SS80HRCPE9U6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.7BEojK7gLQREuDVlbv1Kja4CgQy11I6KnJk8-hzPJjBy14GJjv-NFlYTbni5SagiUZRsABNsl0W5d0q1Od-dVAHjWSZMVebR-c3bT-yN2MBUehbM7_MMHqe2ZR7UmuQRlYhvbnxFC_bOwEv9wbnqnYizaYOjvZNZdQnxOubtEtQRIWX3EPZ5A2oszR_6HIvt978-KYlT48RH5s1SCahTwsGwo7J9n01pP_RoQXQLeOs.rncKiBehLGZzsM_On899_0umVjf-iwWrDGPBnkJCmuM&dib_tag=se&keywords=echoes+across+the+tracks+moravec&qid=1712955877&sprefix=echoes+ac%2Caps%2C104&sr=8-1
Mar 23, 2024 · 45 min
Paul Allman author of "The Journal: Memories of Addis"
In this episode, Sam and Mark talk to Paul Allman about his book, The Journal: Memories of Addis. Based on a True Story from the journal Paul kept while on his adventures. The Journal begins in the caves of Matala on the Island of Crete, made famous by Joni Mitchell's song Carey from her Blue album. Paul's cave was three caves down from hers. The story details his quest to visit the churches of Lalibela in the Gondor region of Northern Ethiopia. He journeyed, alone, up the Nile River and across the Nubian Desert to Khartoum where he faced unexpected challenges entering Ethiopia from Sudan. He finally, with luck, arrives in Addis Ababa only to be involved with the Mengistu Coup on February 3, 1977 - the beginning of the Red Terror. The Journal explores the political landscape of Eastern Africa which was dramatically changing. And Paul found myself in the heart of those transitions, finally escaping Ethiopia on a dried-up riverbed into Kenya.
Feb 12, 2024 · 41 min
James Laing, Author of "Circumstance"
In this episode, Mark and Sam interview James Laing the author of Circumstance. James H. Laing was born in Toronto, Canada on 1965. He found a passion for reading and writing creative literature early in life and took his artistic journey to Los Angeles in the early 90s. in 2015 he moved to Washington state where he and his wife started a CBD business and experienced first hand the prevalence of mental illness, PTSD and addiction among their clients and recognized their widespread occurrence weaved into the fabric of society. This and the rugged beauty of the PNW became the inspiration for this story. James and his wife now live in Scottsdale AZ. Here is the Amazon description of his book: Two young boys living on a military base in the Pacific Northwest become friends and forever partners in crime. After joining the Navy Seal program and being deployed in Iraq, the boys become separated through circumstances out of their control. From crooked cops to illegal drug manufacturing in the mountains of the small coastal town of Aberdeen, WA, Circumstance takes you on a journey of unforeseen hurdles and the dedication and perseverance to overcoming staggering adversity that binds true friendship. Link to the book: https://www.amazon.com/Circumstance-James-H-Laing/dp/B0CSXL4Z35/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1R6GKZ0HMAH5X&keywords=James+Laing&qid=1707755473&sprefix=james+laing%2Caps%2C307&sr=8-1
Jan 18, 2024 · 36 min
Tara Desmond, Shades of Comedy
In this episode, Mark and Sam start the year off right with a visit from their friend Tara Desmond. They try to answer the comic question: Will AI kill us all?