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Stories from Real Life

Melvin E. Edwards

**Honored as the American Writing Awards Male Hosted Podcast of the Year for 2026.** Why should you listen to this podcast? Because "Stories from Real Life" reminds us we’re not alone. In every episode, expert interviewer Melvin E. Edwards dives deep into the moments that shape who we are—messy, moving, sometimes hilarious, sometimes heartbreaking. Whether you're stuck, healing, or just curious about the human experience, these stories help you feel seen, understood, and connected. Want to be a guest on Stories from Real Life? Send Melvin Edwards a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/storiesfromreallife. www.podcastreallife.com

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September 22 · 47 min
Ep. 222 - Rich Dunning: ‘Silence Was My First Language’
Content note: This episode includes discussion of childhood abuse, sexual abuse, addiction, and trauma. What happens when the silence that helped you survive becomes difficult to leave behind? Author Rich Dunning joins Melvin E. Edwards on Stories from Real Life for a deeply personal conversation about memory, identity, survival, accountability, and the decision to finally tell his story. Through his memoir, Silence Was My First Language, Rich reflects on a childhood marked by poverty, abuse and instability; the role alcohol played in helping him cope; and the long journey toward sobriety, healing and understanding the ways his past followed him into adulthood. The conversation also explores the people and places that gave Rich hope, the family he built as an adult, why he chose to take his wife’s last name, and his effort to turn painful experience into something that can help vulnerable children through the First Language Foundation. Topics include: * Why silence became a means of survival. * Childhood abuse, poverty, homelessness and addiction. * The complicated relationship between trauma and achievement. * Baseball as an escape and a path toward opportunity. * Sobriety, accountability and breaking generational patterns. * Writing honestly about memories that are difficult to revisit. * Family, fatherhood and the remarkable story behind the Dunning name. * Supporting vulnerable children through the First Language Foundation. * And the unexpected return of Rich’s teenage rap persona: Sir Rock. CORRECTION: During the interview, Rich refers to a book as 10,000 Hours. The book he was referencing is Malcolm Gladwell’s Outliers, which discusses the idea that extensive deliberate practice—popularized as the “10,000-hour rule”—can contribute to high levels of expertise. Explore Rich’s work: Rich Dunning’s websiteLearn about the memoir: Silence Was My First LanguageLearn about the initiative: The First Language Foundation Stories from Real Life website Media Well Done, LLC Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe
S4 · E221
September 15 · 47 min
Ep. 221 - Sass Schaeffer: Who Are You Now?
What happens when the life you’ve spent years building suddenly no longer fits the person you’ve become? For identity coach Sass Schaeffer, that question isn’t theoretical. Her own journey through major professional and personal upheaval forced her to confront something deeper than how to rebuild her circumstances: she had to reconsider who she was. In this episode of Stories from Real Life, Sass joins Melvin E. Edwards for an intimate conversation about identity, loss, reinvention, and the strange territory between the person you once were and the person you’re becoming. They explore why major transitions—career changes, divorce, empty nesting, retirement, loss, and unexpected disruption—can shake our sense of identity even when everything looks fine from the outside. Sass also challenges one of the most common ideas surrounding difficult transitions: that the goal should always be to “get back to yourself.” What if the person you’re trying to recover isn’t the person you’re meant to be anymore? Melvin and Sass discuss the difference between losing yourself and outgrowing yourself, the role fear can play in our desire for control, the grief that can accompany leaving an old identity behind, and how we begin discovering what we actually want after years of living according to roles, responsibilities, and expectations. In this conversation: • How Sass’s own life disruptions changed her understanding of identity• Why rebuilding your circumstances isn’t necessarily the same as rebuilding yourself• The hidden identity crisis that can accompany major life transitions• Why “getting back to who I used to be” may be the wrong goal• How to recognize when you’ve outgrown an earlier version of yourself• The relationship between fear, control, and uncertainty• Separating what you genuinely want from what others expect of you• Why successful, accomplished people can still lose their sense of self• How small choices can help create a new identity• Finding possibility when life doesn’t unfold according to plan At the heart of the conversation is a deceptively simple question: Who are you when you remove your job title, your relationships, your possessions, and everything else you’ve used to explain yourself? Perhaps starting over isn’t always about finding your way back. Maybe you’re not lost. Maybe you’re becoming. About Sass Schaeffer Sass Schaeffer is a life identity coach who helps women navigate significant transitions and reconnect with who they are and what they want from the next chapter of their lives. Drawing from her own experiences with unexpected change and reinvention, her work focuses on identity, self-discovery, positivity, and creating a life that reflects who a person is becoming rather than simply who they have been. @sass_schaeffer on Instagram YouTube channel About Stories from Real Life Stories from Real Life is an interview podcast hosted by award-winning journalist, author, and publisher Melvin E. Edwards. Through thoughtful conversations with people whose lives have taken extraordinary, unexpected, or meaningful turns, the podcast explores the experiences that shape who we become. Everybody has a story, and every story deserves to be told. Media Well Done, LLC Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe
S4 · E220
September 8 · 48 min
Ep. 220 - Patrick W. Naughton, Jr.: Saving Baker Battery
What would you do if you opened an old binder at an estate sale and realized you were holding a piece of World War II history? Retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel and military historian Patrick W. Naughton Jr. knew almost immediately that he had found something extraordinary. Inside the worn binder was a history created by the soldiers of Baker Battery, 881st Field Artillery Battalion, 69th Infantry Division—typed recollections, original sketches, poems, rosters, jokes and firsthand observations from the men who had fought their way across Europe during the final months of World War II. They hadn’t written it for historians. They had written it for each other. In this episode of Stories from Real Life, Patrick tells the remarkable story of discovering that binder and the research that followed. He also discusses his own 30-year Army career, his work as a military historian, and the deeply personal circumstances under which he completed the project while undergoing cancer treatment. The result is Baker Battery Goes to War: The Wartime Writings and Sketches of a World War II Artillery Unit in the Fighting 69th, coming from Media Well Done on Veterans Day, November 11, 2026. This isn’t simply another history of World War II. It’s an opportunity to hear the war through the voices of the ordinary soldiers who actually lived it. Pre-order the book here: Media Well Done, LLC Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe
S4 · E219
September 1 · 43 min
Ep. 219 - Andre Robertson: Before the Pinstripes: How Andre Robertson Changed Texas Baseball
Andre Robertson on Texas, the Yankees, and the accident that changed everything Former Major League shortstop Andre Robertson joins Melvin E. Edwards to trace a career that moves from Orange, Texas to the University of Texas, the New York Yankees, and the 1981 World Series. He also reflects on the racial barriers he faced, the coaches and teammates who shaped him, and the car accident that reshaped his playing career and life. We discuss: How Andre fell in love with baseball as a kid in Orange, why Texas was the right choice over going pro right out of high school, and what it meant to become the first African American baseball scholarship player at UT. He also shares stories about Yogi Berra, Rickey Henderson, Reggie Jackson, Tommy John, and George Steinbrenner. Key topics * Andre recalls growing up in Orange, Texas, where he started organized baseball at age 8 and played with some of the first Black Little League players in his area. * He tells two clubhouse stories, including Yogi Berra’s strange instruction to “pair up in threes” and Rickey Henderson’s third-person humor. * His father coached him early on and helped shape his approach to competition, discipline, and team-first thinking. * Andre talks about seeing Willie Mays as a kid and realizing he wanted to play at the highest level. * He explains how a state track meet in Austin led to Texas coach Cliff Gustafson recruiting him after seeing his athleticism. * At Texas, he had to switch from shortstop to second base, where assistant coach Bill Bethea helped refine his footwork and turn him into a better pro prospect. * He reflects on the 1979 College World Series, Texas’ dominant run, and the disappointment of being knocked out by Arkansas and a California team. * Andre describes the social reality of being the only Black player on the Texas team for three years and how he responded to racism by focusing on the game. * He talks about leaving after his junior year, later returning to finish his degree in 1992 through correspondence courses. * Andre explains the culture shock of going from Orange, Texas to New York City and how he mentally narrowed his focus to handle Yankee Stadium pressure. * He shares his major league debut in 1981, Reggie Jackson’s advice to “do what you did to get here,” and the confidence boost from getting hits in his first game. * He reflects on the 1981 World Series, his limited role as a pinch runner, and the humility of being part of a championship-caliber roster. * Andre remembers Tommy John as a friendly teammate and as a pitcher whose elbow surgery and long career made an impact on the game. * He discusses George Steinbrenner’s demanding standards and says the owner’s expectations matched the Yankee tradition of winning. * Andre recounts the 1983 car accident that fractured his C2 vertebrae, his long recovery, and the blessing of being able to return to baseball at all. * After playing, he moved into substitute teaching briefly and then spent decades working at DuPont, now Dow. * He closes with a look at his family, including three successful children, and his plans for retirement, golf tournaments, and more time with his wife. * The episode ends with his playful Texas and Texas A&M rivalry story, including the card-signing event where Aggies were reluctant to take UT pictures. Notable quotes “My father always told me, you don’t need to talk about yourself, but let other people tell your stories.” “Do what you did to get here.” “It wasn’t lucky, I was blessed.” Media Well Done, LLC Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe
August 25 · 49 min
Ep. 218 - Margaret Eastman Smith: Faith, Family and Freedom
Margaret Eastman Smith grew up inside Moral Re-Armament (MRA), the international movement that emerged from the Oxford Group and sought to transform society through personal moral and spiritual change. For Margaret, however, MRA wasn’t simply a movement. It was family. In this episode of Stories from Real Life, Margaret joins host Melvin E. Edwards to discuss her memoir, A Spectacular Inheritance: A Memoir of Letting Go, and the extraordinary journey of discovering an identity outside the tightly connected world that shaped her childhood. Their conversation explores growing up in an international communal environment; the history and ideals of Moral Re-Armament; the difficult question of whether MRA constituted a cult; leaving a powerful ideological community; developmental trauma and attachment; history and memory; forgiveness; peacebuilding; and the complicated process of deciding what we keep from the people and institutions that formed us. Margaret Eastman Smith is a writer, historian and peacebuilding scholar whose academic work focuses on history and memory in divided societies and grassroots approaches to peacebuilding. She is also the author of Reckoning with the Past: Teaching History in Northern Ireland. A Spectacular Inheritance is ultimately about more than leaving a movement. It asks a question that belongs to all of us: How much of who we are is inherited—and how much do we get to choose? Learn more about Margaret Eastman Smith:www.margareteastmansmith.com Additional articles:www.weareonehumanity.org Up With People ABOUT STORIES FROM REAL LIFE Stories from Real Life explores the experiences, decisions and defining moments that shape people’s lives. Hosted by Melvin E. Edwards. MEDIA WELL DONE, LLCTurning meaningful stories into lasting legacies. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe
August 18 · 40 min
Ep. 217 - Dr. Michael Brandt: The Future of Facial Plastic Surgery
How do medicine, artistry, and psychology come together to transform lives? In this episode, award-winning journalist Melvin E. Edwards sits down with internationally recognized facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Michael Brandt for a thoughtful conversation about confidence, identity, aging, innovation, and the responsibility that comes with changing someone’s appearance. Dr. Brandt discusses his journey into facial plastic surgery, the ethics behind cosmetic procedures, advances in non-surgical treatments, the influence of social media, and why the most successful procedures often preserve—not replace—a person’s natural identity. As an educator, researcher, and surgeon, he also shares his perspective on the future of facial aesthetics and the importance of mentoring the next generation of physicians. Whether you’re considering cosmetic treatment, work in healthcare, or simply enjoy conversations about leadership and human potential, this episode offers valuable insight into one of medicine’s most fascinating specialties. In This Episode * Dr. Brandt’s path to facial plastic surgery * Why confidence is often more important than perfection * The psychology behind cosmetic procedures * Ethical decision-making in aesthetic medicine * The rise of non-surgical facial rejuvenation * How social media has changed patient expectations * Innovation in facial plastic surgery * Leadership, education, and building a world-class practice * The future of facial aesthetics About Dr. Michael Brandt Dr. Michael Brandt is a Royal College–certified Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgeon who practices exclusively in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. He completed an internationally recognized fellowship at the University of Michigan and is among the few Canadian surgeons certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. In addition to treating patients, he serves as an Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto and is an internationally recognized educator and researcher in facial plastic surgery. Connect with Dr. Michael Brandt FORM Face + Body 🌐 Official Website 👨‍⚕️ Dr. Michael Brandt Bio 💼 LinkedIn 📸 Instagram – Dr. Michael Brandt 📸 Instagram – FORM Face + Body 📸 Instagram – FORM Hair Toronto About the Host Award-winning journalist, author, publisher, and podcast host Melvin E. Edwards is the founder of Media Well Done, LLC and the creator of Stories from Real Life, where he explores the remarkable journeys of leaders, innovators, historians, athletes, entrepreneurs, and everyday people whose experiences inspire others. About Media Well Done, LLC Media Well Done, LLC is an independent publishing and media company dedicated to preserving important stories through books, podcasts, and historical research. Its mission is to illuminate stories that official histories often leave in the shadows. Learn more: 🌐 Media Well Done, LLC Listen & Subscribe Never miss an episode of Stories from Real Life. 🎙️ Stories from Real Life Podcast Books by Melvin E. Edwards * Nuremberg, Mississippi * The Eyes of Texans * The Strength of a Thousand Sons * The Names They Kept (forthcoming) Available through Media Well Done, LLC and major online booksellers. Share This Episode If you enjoyed this conversation, please: * Follow Stories from Real Life * Leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform * Share this episode with friends, colleagues, or anyone interested in medicine, leadership, or personal transformation * Follow Media Well Done and Dr. Michael Brandt on social media for future updates Thank you for listening to Stories from Real Life, where every life has a story worth telling Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe
S4 · E217
August 14 · 1 hr 16 min
Ep. 216 - Clint Hurdle: Take The Long Way Home
Long before Clint Hurdle became one of baseball’s most recognizable managers, he was the kid everyone expected to become a star. A first-round draft pick of the Kansas City Royals in 1975, Hurdle reached the major leagues at 20 and soon found himself on the cover of Sports Illustrated under enormous expectations. His playing career ultimately followed a different path — but the lessons that came with it would shape everything that followed. Hurdle went on to build a remarkable second act as a coach, teacher, and manager. He led the Colorado Rockies to the 2007 World Series and later helped transform the Pittsburgh Pirates, taking them back to the postseason in 2013 after a 20-year absence. But his most important story may be the one beyond wins and losses. In this episode of Stories from Real Life, Melvin E. Edwards talks with Clint Hurdle about being labeled a future star before adulthood, confronting disappointment, learning from failure, sobriety, family, leadership and discovering that sometimes the life you were supposed to have isn’t nearly as meaningful as the life you eventually build. Hurdle-isms book Media Well Done, LLC Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe
August 11 · 40 min
Ep. 215 - Diane Les Becquets: Between Heaven and the Rest of My Life
National bestselling novelist Diane Les Becquets joins Stories from Real Life for an unforgettable conversation about survival, faith, creativity, and the remarkable healing power of nature. Known for literary novels that immerse readers in America’s wild landscapes, Diane has earned acclaim for Breaking Wild, The Last Woman in the Forest, and her newest novel, Where the Water Meets the Sky. Her latest work is a moving coming-of-age story set in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula that explores grief, memory, forgiveness, and the restorative power of community and the natural world. But during the writing of this novel, Diane faced a life-changing challenge of her own. Diagnosed with five brain aneurysms, she underwent complex surgery and emerged with a transformed perspective on writing, faith, family, and purpose. Following her recovery, she returned to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula—traveling to the very locations that inspired her novel—as both a celebration of life and a pilgrimage of gratitude. In this deeply personal episode, Diane shares how beauty, wonder, and wilderness continue to shape both her stories and her life. In This Episode * The inspiration behind Where the Water Meets the Sky * Why Michigan’s Upper Peninsula became the heart of the novel * Surviving five brain aneurysms * Finding peace after trauma * Faith, surrender, and creativity * Nature as a source of healing * Why place can become a character * Living with gratitude after facing mortality * What she hopes readers carry with them long after finishing her books About Diane Les Becquets Diane Les Becquets is the award-winning, national bestselling author of Breaking Wild, The Last Woman in the Forest, and Where the Water Meets the Sky. Her novels have received starred reviews from Publishers Weekly, Booklist, and Kirkus Reviews, been featured on NPR’s Morning Edition, and earned numerous literary honors, including the Colorado Book Award and the New Hampshire Outstanding Work of Fiction. Drawing from years spent exploring wilderness alongside archaeologists, wildlife biologists, conservationists, and foresters, Diane creates stories where landscape becomes as important as the people who inhabit it. She now lives in New Hampshire and continues to write from her backyard writing studio, “Wild Spaces.” Books Mentioned * Where the Water Meets the Sky * Breaking Wild * The Last Woman in the Forest * Nuremberg, Mississippi Connect with Diane Les Becquets 🌐 Official WebsiteDiane Les Becquets 📚 Where the Water Meets the SkySimon & Schuster Book Page 📖 Author Page at Simon & SchusterSimon & Schuster Author Page 📸 Instagram@dianelesbecquets 📚 GoodreadsGoodreads Author Page Learn More If you’re drawn to stories about resilience, healing, wilderness, and the search for meaning, Diane’s novels offer richly imagined worlds where nature becomes both setting and teacher. Her latest novel, Where the Water Meets the Sky, has been praised as “a love letter to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula” and a deeply affecting meditation on memory, forgiveness, and belonging. Follow Stories from Real Life 🎙️ Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts. 🌐 Visit Media Well Done for more episodes, books, and conversations with extraordinary people living extraordinary lives. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who appreciates inspiring stories about courage, creativity, and the enduring power of hope. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe
S4 · E214
August 4 · 59 min
Ep. 214 - Connie Kwan: Building Better Habits Through Better Stories
Key Points Keywords storytelling, habits, identity, product management, entrepreneurship, AI, personal development, childhood influences, curiosity, leadership AI, storytelling, human connection, personal habits, failure, hope, kindness, technology, creativity, identity Summary In this episode of Stories from Real Life, host Melvin E. Edwards speaks with Connie Kwan, CEO of Product Maestro and storytelling coach, about her book ‘Story Habits’ and the importance of identity in habit formation. Connie shares her experiences growing up in Hong Kong and Canada, her early interest in technology, and how storytelling plays a crucial role in product management. They discuss the qualities that make great product leaders, common mistakes founders make, and the impact of AI on entrepreneurship. Connie emphasizes the significance of understanding habits, the misconceptions surrounding them, and how organizations and families can develop effective story habits. In this conversation, Connie Kwan discusses the evolving role of AI in storytelling and human connection, emphasizing that while AI can assist in research and content creation, it cannot replace the essential human skills of empathy and connection. She explores how AI has made storytelling more accessible, allowing individuals to create meaningful narratives, including personal family stories. Connie also shares her personal journey with habits, including her approach to reducing dessert intake and managing her TV watching habits. The discussion touches on the importance of learning from failure and the inherent goodness in humanity, providing a hopeful perspective on the future. Takeaways The identity piece is crucial for habit change.Childhood experiences shape our current identities.Adjusting to new environments can be challenging yet rewarding.Early exposure to technology fosters interest and skills.Storytelling is essential in product management to bridge gaps.Curiosity is a key trait for successful product leaders.Founders often fall into the trap of the ‘if I build it’ mentality.AI has transformed the landscape of entrepreneurship.Understanding the story behind habits is vital for change.Organizations and families can cultivate beneficial story habits. AI helps you make connections with the right folks.AI is not going to replace human skills.AI made storytelling more accessible for every person.You can build a movie about your family.I’m a fancy dessert eater now.TV is my addictive substance.Failure is data that helps you move forward.Keep going. Keep going. Keep going. Don’t give up.Audit your life once in a while.The most important story you’ll ever tell is why you’re here. Connie’s contact links- Website - Substack - LinkedIn Melvin E. Edwards’ contact links: Media Well Done, LLC Stories from Real Life website Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe
S4 · E213
July 28 · 50 min
Ep. 213 - Neil Taylor: Me and My Old Man...and My Son
Neil Taylor’s father, Patrick, died in March 2021. Six days later, Neil’s son was born and given Patrick as his middle name. Caught between grief and new life, Neil realized that his son would never know his grandfather unless Neil found a way to carry Patrick’s voice and story forward. That realization became Me & My Old Man, a 12-week guided storytelling experience that helps families preserve the voices, memories, and life stories of the people they love. In this episode, Neil joins Stories from Real Life to talk about grief, fatherhood, family legacy, and what more than 350 hours of listening to ordinary people’s stories has taught him about love, memory, regret, and the questions families often wait too long to ask. About Neil Taylor Neil Taylor is the founder of Me & My Old Man, a family storytelling project created after the death of his father, Patrick. Through guided conversations, Neil helps families record and preserve the stories of parents, grandparents, and loved ones in their own voices. His work has now reached 32 families across six countries, with more than 350 hours of recorded life stories. In This Episode Melvin and Neil discuss: * Losing a father just days before becoming a father * Why Neil felt responsible for helping his son know the grandfather he would never meet * The difference between remembering someone and truly understanding their life * Why ordinary people often carry extraordinary stories * What families discover when they finally sit down and really listen * The questions people should ask their parents and loved ones before it is too late * How grief can become a bridge between generations * What 350+ hours of family conversations taught Neil about love, regret, and legacy Memorable Themes Most family stories are not lost dramatically. They disappear quietly — through silence, assumptions, and unasked questions. This conversation reminds us that the people closest to us may still be carrying entire lives we have never fully heard. Parents are more than parents. Grandparents are more than family roles. They are people with fears, dreams, disappointments, choices, sacrifices, and stories that deserve to be heard while their voices can still tell them. Listener Challenge After listening to this episode, ask someone you love one meaningful question about their life. Start with one of these: * What is a story from your life you hope our family never forgets? * What was a time when you were scared but kept going? * What do you wish people understood about the life you lived before they knew you? Guest Link Learn more about Neil Taylor and Me & My Old Man:meandmyoldman.co.uk Episode Keywords Neil Taylor, Me & My Old Man, family stories, oral history, fatherhood, grief, legacy, preserving family history, recording parents’ stories, family memory, storytelling, life stories, parent interviews, preserving a loved one’s voice, Stories from Real Life. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe
S4 · E212
July 21 · 50 min
Ep. 212 - Scot Loyd: Nolan Xavier Wells Reminds Me of Roy
Show Notes In this episode of Stories from Real Life, Melvin E. Edwards welcomes writer, historian, and author Scot Loyd for a thoughtful conversation about faith, race, historical memory, and personal transformation. Prompted in part by the national reckoning following the murder of George Floyd, Scot reflects on his late childhood friend Roy and the essay that emerged from those memories: “A Letter to Roy. He’s the Black Guy in My Pictures.” Together, they explore how friendship can expose blind spots, why history often reshapes our understanding of the past, and what it means to pursue truth with humility. The conversation also examines Scot’s journey through religious deconstruction, the ideas behind his book The God I Was Given, and the challenges—and rewards—of asking difficult questions. Topics include: * Scot Loyd’s friendship with Roy * Connection to the Nolan Wells case * Reflections following George Floyd’s murder * Race, memory, and historical perspective * The intersection of history, empathy, and identity * Why honest conversations matter Guest: Scot Loyd — writer, historian, podcast host, and author of The God I Was Given. Follow Stories from Real Life for more conversations with remarkable people whose personal stories illuminate larger truths. Media Well Done, LLC Stories from Real Life Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe
S4 · E211
July 14 · 45 min
Ep. 211 - Jeff Gomez: Why Fans May Save Hollywood
Unmasking the Power of Stories with Jeff Gomez: From Franchises to AI Get ready to dive into a world where storytelling is not just an art, but a force for change. Jeff Gomez, the mastermind behind iconic universes like Halo, Avatar, and Spider-Man, shares his daring insights on building worlds that last, the future of AI as a storytelling medium, and how narratives can reshape our collective consciousness. Buckle up — this episode ignites your passion for stories that matter. In this episode: * Jeff’s journey from unsung hero to legendary storyteller * The core principles that make franchise worlds feel real and enduring * How creators should navigate expansion and fan loyalty * The transformative potential of AI as a narrative medium * Why legacy media and fan communities are vital in the digital age * The importance of systemic narratives to address today’s complex world * Practical tips to uphold integrity in storytelling and avoid the pitfalls of mainstream complacency Resources & Links: * The Ten Commandments of Corporate Narrative * Deep Down - Jeff Gomez’s Crime Thriller * Jeff Gomez on LinkedIn * Starlight Runner Entertainment * Magic: The Gathering Connect with Jeff Gomez: * LinkedIn * Twitter Additional Resources: * The Mythic Field: AI and the Future of Storytelling * Universal Storytelling & Systemic Narratives * Media Well Done, LLC Want to turn your storytelling dreams into reality? Take Jeff’s insights, harness the power of systems, and create tales that endure beyond a lifetime. Your stories can change the world. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe
S4 · E210
July 7 · 44 min
Ep. 210 - Gretchen Hertler: The Kindness That Endures
You won’t want to miss this inspiring episode with Gretchen Hertler, a woman whose life so beautifully exemplifies resilience, compassion, and unwavering dedication to helping others. From her journey through personal trauma to her lifelong mission of caring for newborns and her powerful stories on spiritual encounters, Gretchen’s voice is a beacon of hope and humanity. In this episode: * Gretchen shares her commitment to helping vulnerable babies through her charity, Keep a Baby Warm, and the heartfelt origin story behind it * A candid discussion about her personal journey navigating an abusive marriage and finding strength through faith and faith’s role in healing * Lessons learned from her 18 years teaching kindergarten, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, kindness, and authenticity in early childhood education * Her reflections on travel and how experiences in Ireland transformed her perceptions of kindness and community * The extraordinary story of spiritual activity in her home, including visits from paranormal experts and her encounters with unexplainable phenomena * How Gretchen’s lifelong resilience and faith continue to inspire her and those around her to keep pushing forward Resources & Links: * Keep a Baby Warm — Gretchen’s charity dedicated to providing clothing and essentials to vulnerable newborns * Between the Darkness and the Light Book — Gretchen’s memoir sharing her journey through trauma, faith, and hope * Lorraine Warren — Noted paranormal investigator who assisted Gretchen with her house * The Warrens and Haunted Homes — Resources on spiritual cleansing and paranormal investigations Connect with Gretchen: * Facebook This episode is not just a story of survival but a powerful testament to the human spirit’s capacity to overcome darkness with light. Gretchen’s truth will ignite your compassion, challenge your perceptions, and remind you that even in our hardest moments, hope persists. Tune in now and be inspired to make a difference—starting in your own life! Produced by Media Well Done, LLC. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe
S4 · E209
June 30 · 34 min
Ep. 209 - Kyle Sweetser: Semi-Sweet Home Alabama
Explore the insights of Kyle Sweetser, a recent U.S. Senate candidate from Alabama, as he shares lessons learned from talking to diverse communities, challenging stereotypes, and navigating political divides. Discover how genuine listening and honest conversations can impact community trust and political engagement. Main Topics Covered: * The importance of representing overlooked voices in politics, especially those who work with their hands * Surprising voter engagement levels and misconceptions about Alabama a decade after previous campaigns * How campaigning altered Kyle’s views on issues like minimum wage and immigration * The significance of social issues such as immigration, detention, and the cultural struggles around gender and identity in Alabama * Strategies for reaching Democrats’ primary voters and broadening electoral appeal * The impact of political branding and the need to speak authentically despite backlash * The role of trust and religious influence among Black voters and rural communities * Lessons on listening to understand rather than respond, and the importance of saying “no” to divisive issues * Future opportunities for Alabama’s growth based on infrastructure, port development, and innovation * The necessity for politicians to be transparent, outspoken, and true to their values * Myths about unity and the commonality among Americans regardless of differences * The power of curiosity and humility in bridging divides and fostering community progress Resources & Links: * Alabama’s Port of Mobile * Port Huntsville * Tax Foundation - State & Local Tax Rates * Charles Barkley – Former NBA Player & Community Figure * Media Well Done, LLC Connect with Kyle Sweetzer: * LinkedIn * Twitter Key Frameworks & Notable Quotes: * The importance of authentic listening (”Understanding begins with curiosity”) * “You can’t out Trump Trump” – insights from Democratic Party insiders * “We are more alike than different” – a core lesson in human connection Action Items: * Focus on community issues that transcend party lines, like infrastructure and economic fairness * Engage in honest, issue-based conversations that prioritize understanding * Build your voter base beyond superficial social issues by emphasizing economic and practical concerns Final Reflection: Kyle’s journey underscores that meaningful change requires listening, authenticity, and a willingness to challenge stereotypes. His lessons remind us that bridging divides starts with genuine curiosity and honest dialogue—and that truth and humility can foster trust and progress across communities. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe
S4 · E208
June 23 · 1 hr 8 min
Ep. 208 - Colin Owensby: Beyond the Finish Line
Dive into the compelling story of Colin Owensby as he shares how a severe car accident, personal tragedies, and remarkable sports achievements shaped his outlook on life, resilience, and purpose. This episode explores athletic discipline, overcoming loss, and finding strength through adversity. Main Topics: * The impact of sports on mental resilience and discipline * Personal tragedy: surviving a life-changing car accident * Building a toolkit of resilience and embracing gratitude * The journey from modeling in Europe to Hollywood and beyond * How grief influences life purpose and living with intention In this episode: * Colin recounts his transition from NCAA swimmer to ultramarathon runner and Ironman competitor * Insight into the mental and physical discipline required for elite athletic performance * Emotional recount of surviving a devastating car crash and losing his brother * The concept of the “Map of Resilience” and essential mental tools to overcome setbacks * Reflection on grief, love, and finding omens in everyday life * Stories of modeling in Milan, working on Hollywood sets, and traveling across Europe * Practical advice for building community, cultivating gratitude, and pursuing personal growth Resources & Links: * Racers for Pacers * Veterans Future Foundation * Tony Robbins - Money Master the Game Connect with Colin: * Instagram * TikTok Note: To support Colin’s purpose and endurance journey, check the show notes for direct links to the foundations. Thank you for listening to Stories from Real Life. Be sure to subscribe and share your light wherever you go. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe
S4 · E207
June 16 · 1 hr
Ep. 207 - Amy Hawk: What Would Judas Do? (Encore)
Show Notes: Amy Hawk — Author, Bible Teacher, and Truth-Teller What happens when faithfulness to Jesus begins to put you at odds with the religious community that shaped you? In this episode of Stories from Real Life, I sit down with Amy Hawk, an author, Bible teacher, and writer whose work explores the uncomfortable intersection of Christianity, politics, conscience, and spiritual courage. Amy spent roughly two decades serving in evangelical church life—teaching Bible classes, leading Bible studies, women’s ministry, prayer ministry, and adult discipleship—before a season of deep disillusionment forced her to reexamine what it means to follow Jesus when institutional religion becomes entangled with power. Amy is the author of The Judas Effect: How Evangelicals Betrayed Jesus for Power, a deeply personal and Scripture-centered reflection on the American evangelical church, political allegiance, and the cost of choosing power over the way of Christ. The book is described as part Bible study and part personal faith journey, written out of Amy’s own crisis of faith as she wrestled with what she saw happening inside parts of the church after 2016. She is also the author of Six Years in the Hanoi Hilton, the story of her father, U.S. Air Force pilot James Shively, who was shot down over North Vietnam in 1967 and spent six years as a prisoner of war. That earlier book explored courage, survival, suffering, and hope under extreme circumstances—themes that also echo through Amy’s more recent work. Our conversation moves beyond politics into something more personal and searching: What does Christian integrity require? How do people hold onto faith when the institutions around them disappoint them? And how can Scripture become not a weapon for winning arguments, but a guide back toward humility, compassion, truth, and courage? In This Episode Melvin and Amy discuss: How Amy’s years in evangelical ministry shaped her faith and her writing. Why she felt compelled to write The Judas Effect. The difference between loyalty to Jesus and loyalty to a political movement. What happens when speaking honestly costs you community. How Scripture helped Amy process disillusionment. The role of courage, repentance, humility, and compassion in the life of the church. How her father’s POW story influenced her understanding of endurance and moral clarity. Why some conversations are difficult precisely because they matter. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe
S4 · E206
June 9 · 1 hr 2 min
Ep. 206 - Owen Ó Súilleabháin: Ancient Songs for Modern Lives (Encore Episode)
Irish singer, composer, storyteller, poet, teacher, and leadership guide Owen Ó Súilleabháin brings a rare blend of music, memory, spirituality, and cultural wisdom to the conversation. Raised in one of Ireland’s most respected artistic families, Owen inherited a deep relationship with song, story, poetry, and the ancient traditions of Ireland. His mother, Rev. Nóirín Ní Riain, Ph.D., is a renowned sacred singer, theologian, and spiritual director; his late father, Mícheál Ó Súilleabháin, was a celebrated composer, pianist, musicologist, and founder of the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance at the University of Limerick. Owen’s work lives at the intersection of art and human transformation. With a background in philosophy, Greek and Roman civilization, and Peace and Development Studies, he uses music, poetry, conversation, and Celtic spirituality to help people reconnect with creativity, presence, purpose, and the deeper currents of their own lives. Owen has collaborated with and worked alongside major artistic figures including The Chieftains, Sinéad O’Connor, Steven Spielberg, Russell Crowe, Nigel Kennedy, David Whyte, and John O’Donohue. His current work includes leadership coaching, cultural journeys through Ireland, and creative communities rooted in Celtic spirituality, seasonal ritual, song, and story. In this episode, Owen helps us explore what ancient songs can teach modern people about grief, belonging, listening, creativity, and the human longing to be fully alive. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe
S4 · E205
June 2 · 43 min
Ep. 205 - Nancy Deyo: Mountain High, Valley Low
Episode Summary Nancy Deyo is a former Silicon Valley CEO, Stanford Distinguished Careers Institute Fellow, and author of the forthcoming memoir Perilous Ascent. After a medical crisis on Mount Kilimanjaro, Nancy entered a fifteen-year journey through misdiagnosis, chronic pain, opioid dependence, and identity collapse. In this episode of Stories from Real Life, Nancy shares how the strategies that once defined her success—discipline, endurance, ambition, and pushing through—eventually had to be reexamined. Her story is not about a simple cure or a clean comeback. It is about learning to live differently when life no longer responds to effort in the same way. This conversation explores chronic pain, medical uncertainty, high-performance culture, shame, adaptation, and the deeper meaning of resilience. In This Episode, We Discuss * The medical crisis Nancy experienced on Mount Kilimanjaro * How chronic pain reshaped her identity and daily life * The long road through misdiagnosis and medical uncertainty * Opioid dependence in the context of chronic pain * The emotional cost of high-performance culture * Why “pushing through” can sometimes become harmful * Attending graduate school while unable to sit * Rebuilding a meaningful life without pretending everything is fixed * Her forthcoming memoir, Perilous Ascent * A more honest definition of resilience Memorable Themes One of the most powerful ideas in this conversation is that resilience does not always mean pushing harder. Sometimes resilience means recognizing limits, grieving the life that changed, and adapting with honesty rather than force. Nancy’s story will resonate with anyone living with chronic illness, navigating burnout, facing medical uncertainty, caregiving for someone in pain, or rebuilding after a major life disruption. About Nancy Deyo Nancy Deyo is a former Silicon Valley CEO and Stanford Distinguished Careers Institute Fellow. Her forthcoming memoir, Perilous Ascent, reflects on a fifteen-year journey through chronic pain, misdiagnosis, opioid dependence, and personal transformation after a medical crisis on Mount Kilimanjaro. Through her writing and speaking, Nancy offers a candid look at what it means to live inside pain, question old definitions of strength, and find a new way forward. Connect with Nancy Read Nancy’s Substack: Life Inside Pain with Nancy Deyo Media Well Done, LLC Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe
S4 · E204
May 26 · 40 min
Ep. 204 - Dr. Craig Yorke: I Was Raised to be Perfect
Discover the compelling journey of Dr. Craig Yorke, a Black neurosurgeon, author of Steep, as he reflects on his experiences growing up in Boston, navigating racial identity, and the nuances of success in a demanding profession. This episode offers insights into overcoming societal pressures, the importance of memory and history, and the lessons learned from decades in medicine. In this episode, we discuss: * The distinction between resume virtues and obituary virtues, and how Dr. Yorke shifted his focus midlife * The rarity of Black neurosurgeons and his experience moving from Boston to Kansas * The influence of Dr. Yorke’s parents and their long-term impact on his life and career * The weight of surgical outcomes, grief, and the mental resilience required in neurosurgery * How cultural and social history are woven into his personal narrative and medical journey * The meaning behind the cover art of Steep, inspired by Ramon E. Cajal’s neuroanatomical drawings * The importance of understanding historical context for both Black and white readers * Lessons on humility, control, and compassion for physicians and parents alike * A heartfelt reflection on how his family celebrated his achievements, and the significance of his parents witnessing his success * Dr. Yorke's website * Media Well Done, LLC * Stories from Real Life Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe
S4 · E203
May 19 · 31 min
Ep. 203 - Johnzelle Anderson: Rewriting Your Life’s Mixtape
Release Date: May 19, 2026 Episode: Number 203 Guest: Johnzelle Anderson, LPC, Author of Mixtape: A Memoir ## Episode Summary What if your memories weren’t just chapters in a book, but tracks on a mixtape? In this episode of Stories from Real Life, we sit down with Licensed Professional Counselor and author Johnzelle Anderson to discuss his powerful new memoir, Mixtape. Johnzelle opens up about the “soundtrack of survival”—from navigating the complex “in-between” of identity and race to the profound clinical work of helping others retrieve lost pieces of their own stories. Whether you’re interested in the mechanics of narrative therapy or the deeply personal journey of a man reclaiming his voice, this conversation offers a rhythmic look at what it means to heal. ## Key Discussion Points * The Mixtape Metaphor: Why music and “tracks” provide a better framework for trauma and memory than traditional chronological storytelling. * Sankofa & Retrieval: The West African concept of “reaching back to fetch what was lost” and how it applies to modern mental health. * Identity in the “In-Between”: Johnzelle’s experience being raised in whiteness while living in a Black body, and the realization of racism within “safe” spaces. * Clinical Insight: A look at EMDR and narrative therapy—how we can “re-record” the negative loops playing in our minds. * Lawful Atrocities: How systemic injustices manifest as personal psychological wounds. ## Resources Mentioned * Read: Mixtape: A Memoir by Johnzelle Anderson (Released March 2026) * Connect: Panoramic Counseling – Johnzelle’s clinical practice. ## About the Guest Johnzelle Anderson is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), therapist, and author dedicated to helping individuals navigate trauma through narrative and EMDR therapy. His work bridges the gap between clinical expertise and authentic storytelling, focusing on resilience, identity, and the power of reclaiming one’s narrative. ## Connect with Stories from Real Life * Website: Media Well Done * Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your stories. Listener Challenge: What is one “track” from your past that you’re ready to re-record? Share your thoughts with us on social media using the hashtag #RealLifeMixtape. Get full access to Melvin E. Edwards at storiesfromreallife.substack.com/subscribe

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