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Descubre un mundo infinito de historias

Escucha y lee

Sean Martin

ITSPmagazine

Marco Ciappelli

Hosted by Marco Ciappelli |
We are all made of stories. Storytelling is at the core of our human experience—how we transmit knowledge, share experiences, and communicate values. Stories are bridges that connect us, shaping our worldview and weaving together our collective consciousness.

In our modern, hybrid analog-digital society, the art of storytelling matters more than ever. Every storyteller—regardless of medium or platform—contributes to the grand narrative of human experience.

I'm focusing this podcast on the storytellers themselves—exploring the craft, passion, and philosophy behind the stories that make us human. Join me for conversations that dive deep into the creative process across all mediums, celebrating the timeless tradition of storytelling in our evolving digital era.

Audio Signals Podcast

Oscar-Nominated Filmmaker Pen Densham on Writing, Cinematography, Photography, Creativity and the Freedom of Breaking the Rules 
There's a particular kind of magic that happens when a storyteller stops trying to please the market and starts listening to their soul. Pen Densham knows this better than most—he's lived it across three different mediums, each time learning to let go a little more.

 

Densham's creative journey spans decades and disciplines: from screenwriting to cinematography to, now, impressionist photography. When I sat down with him for Audio Signals Podcast, we didn't dwell on credits or awards. We talked about the vulnerability of creativity, the courage it takes to break the rules, and the freedom that comes when you stop asking for permission.

 

"Those scripts that I wrote out of passion, even though they didn't seem necessary to fit the market, got made more frequently than the ones I wrote when I was architecting to hit goals for a studio," Densham told me. It's a paradox he's discovered over and over: the work born from genuine emotional need resonates in ways that calculated formulas never can.

 

His thinking has been shaped by extraordinary influences. He studied with Marshall McLuhan, who opened his eyes to the biology of storytelling—how audiences enter a trance state, mirroring the characters on screen, processing strategies through their neurons. He found resonance in Joseph Campbell's work on myth. "We're the shamans of our age," Densham reflects. "We're trying to interpret society in ways that people can learn and change."

 

But what struck me most was how Densham, after mastering the craft of writing and the machinery of cinematography, has circled back to the simplest tool: a camera. Not to capture perfect images, but to create what he calls "visual music." He moves his camera deliberately during long exposures. He shoots koi through blinding sunlight. He photographs waves at dusk until they fragment into impressionistic dances of light and motion.

 

"The biggest effort was letting go of self-criticism," he admitted. "Thinking 'this is stupid, these aren't real photographs.' But I'm making images that blow my mind."

 

This is the thread that runs through Densham's entire creative life: the willingness to unlearn. In writing, he learned to trust his instincts over studio formulas. In cinematography, he learned that visual storytelling could carry emotional weight beyond dialogue. And now, in photography, he's learned that breaking every rule he ever absorbed—holding the camera still, getting the exposure right, capturing a "correct" image—has unlocked something entirely new.

 

There's a lesson here for anyone who creates. We absorb rules unconsciously—what a proper screenplay looks like, how a film should be shot, what makes a "real" photograph. And sometimes those rules serve us. But sometimes they become cages. Densham's journey is proof that the most profound creative freedom comes not from mastering the rules, but from having the courage to abandon them.

 

"I'm not smarter than anybody else," he said. "But like Einstein said, I stay at things longer."

 

We left the door open for more—AI, the creator economy, the future of storytelling. But for now, there's something powerful in Densham's path across writing, cinematography, and photography: a reminder that creativity is not a destination but a continuous act of letting go.

Stay tuned. Subscribe. And remember—we are all made of stories. 

Learn more about Pen Densham: https://pendenshamphotography.com

Learn more about my work and podcasts at marcociappelli.com and audiosignalspodcast.com

 
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Oscar-Nominated Filmmaker Pen Densham on Writing, Cinematography, Photography, Creativity and the Freedom of Breaking the Rules | Audio Signals Podcast With Marco Ciappelli

Spy's Mate: A Conversation with Bradley W. Buchanan About Chess, Cold War Intrigue, and the Stories That Save Us
After a few months away, I couldn't stay silent. Audio Signals is back, and I'm thrilled that this conversation marks the official return.

The truth is, I tried to let it go. I thought maybe I'd hang up the mic and focus solely on my work exploring technology and society. But my passion for storytellers and storytelling—it cannot be tamed. We are made of stories, after all, and some of us choose to write them, sing them, photograph them, or bring them to life on screen. Brad Buchanan writes them, and his story brought me back.

I'll admit something upfront: I'm not particularly good at chess. I love the game—the strategy, the mythology, the beautiful complexity of it all—but I'm no grandmaster. That's what made this conversation so fascinating. Brad has created an entire fictional world where chess isn't just a game; it's a matter of life and death, set against the backdrop of Cold War espionage and Soviet propaganda.

His debut novel, Spy's Mate, weaves together two worlds I find endlessly intriguing: the intellectual battlefield of competitive chess and the shadow games of international espionage. But what makes this book truly compelling isn't just the plot—it's the man behind it.

Brad is a retired English professor from Sacramento State, a two-time blood cancer survivor, and what he calls a "chimera"—someone whose DNA was literally altered by a stem cell transplant from his brother. He was blind for a year and a half. He nearly died multiple times. And through it all, he held onto this story, this passion for chess that manifested in literal dreams where the pieces hunted him across the board.

When we spoke, what struck me most was how deeply personal this novel is beneath its spy thriller exterior. The protagonist, Yasha, is an Armenian chess prodigy whose mother teaches him the game before falling gravely ill. In a moment that breaks your heart, young Yasha asks his mother to promise she'll live long enough to see him become world chess champion—an impossible promise that drives the entire narrative.

Brad wrote Spy's Mate after his own mother's death from blood cancer in 2021. When he told me he was crying while writing the final pages, I understood something essential about storytelling: we write to process what life won't let us finish. He gave Yasha the closure he wished he'd had with his own mother.

But this isn't just a meditation on loss. Brad brings genuine chess expertise and meticulous historical research to create a world where the KGB manipulates tournaments, computers calculate moves at the glacial pace of one per hour, and Soviet chess dominance serves as proof of communist superiority. He recreates famous chess games with diagrams so readers can follow the battlefield. He fictionalizes Soviet leaders (his Gorbachev character is named "Ogar," his Putin figure has "the nose of a proboscis monkey") but keeps the oppressive atmosphere authentic.

What I love about Brad's approach is that he wrote this novel almost like a screenplay—action and dialogue, visual and kinematic, built for the screen. Having taught Virginia Woolf while secretly wanting to write page-turning thrillers tells you everything about the tension between academic life and creative passion. Now, finally free to write full-time after early retirement due to his medical challenges, he's doing what he always wanted.

We talked about the hero's journey, about Joseph Campbell's mythical structure that still works because it mirrors how our minds work. We reminisced about the 1982 World Cup and Marco Tardelli's iconic scream (we're the same generation, watching from different continents). We discussed whether characters should plot their own paths or whether writers should map everything from the beginning.

As someone who writes short, magical stories with my mother, I understand the pull toward something bigger, something that requires more than 1,200 words can contain. Brad waited 55 years to publish his first novel. I'm 56 and still working up to it. There's hope for all of us yet.

Spy's Mate is available now, with an audiobook coming after Thanksgiving. And yes, I can absolutely see this as a Netflix series—chess looks incredibly sexy on screen when the stakes are high and the lighting is good.

Welcome back to Audio Signals. Let's keep telling stories.

Learn more about Bradley and get his book: https://www.bradthechimera.com

Learn more about my work and podcasts at marcociappelli.com and audiosignalspodcast.com

 
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Book: Spy's Mate | A Conversation with Bradley W. Buchanan About Chess, Cold War Espionage, and His Journey Into Writing This Story | Audio Signals Podcast With Marco Ciappelli

Guest: Justin Thompson, Senior Artist at Charles M. Schulz Creative Associates

On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-thompson-91a47339/

On Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/mythtickle/

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Host: Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals Podcast

On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/marco-ciappelli
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This Episode’s Sponsors

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Illustrator and cartoonist Justin Thompson returns to Audio Signals for a creative deep-dive into storytelling, teaching empathy through art, and the mythological mischief behind his comic strip Mythtickle. From working with Peanuts to staging a children’s book play, this is a heartfelt, hilarious, and highly visual journey into the art of emotional storytelling. ⸻ 

🖍️ Drawing from Empathy: Storytelling, Mythology, and Cartooning with Justin Thompson By Marco Ciappelli ⸻ It’s always a good sign when you know a conversation is going to go longer than planned. This is my second time sitting down with the incredibly talented and endlessly creative Justin Thompson, and—just like the first—we could have talked for hours. You may know Justin from his long-standing work with the iconic Peanuts universe. Yes, that Peanuts—Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and the unmistakable world built by Charles Schulz. But what makes this conversation truly special is the other side of Justin’s creative journey. His comic strip, Mythtickle, blends humor, mythology, and heartfelt emotion into something that is both whimsical and quietly profound. From Egyptian underworlds to Norse gods in detention, it’s a storytelling playground built for meaning and mischief. ⸻ 

✍️ From Snoopy to Schulz to Something Personal Justin’s professional path is a story in itself. He spent years as an actor and stuntman before pivoting into illustration and landing at the Schulz Studio in Santa Rosa, California. There, he reviewed merchandise, traveled to Japan as the studio’s liaison, and eventually contributed original creative content for the Peanuts brand—including authoring and illustrating several books. One of those books, If I Gave the World My Blanket, is now being adapted into a musical stage play for children. Yes—his book about empathy, kindness, and Linus’s iconic blanket is literally being brought to life. And somehow that still wasn’t the most exciting thing he had going on. ⸻ 

🎭 Mythtickle and the Mythology of Emotion Justin’s comic strip Mythtickle, published on GoComics since 2007, is what happens when you throw mythological characters from every culture into middle school together—and then ask, “What if they actually had feelings?” There’s Karma, a Japanese girl. Ziva, an African goddess. A mischievous pre-teen version of Thor. A dragon. A knight. All interacting in one bizarre, beautiful mytho-universe that’s as educational as it is hilarious. Justin doesn’t just write jokes—he teaches emotional storytelling through art. Literally. He teaches kids in Brooklyn, in Tanzania, and through The Mentor Project. His method starts not with technique, but with empathy: “What is that character feeling? And how can you show that with no words?” Because, as he says, “A good cartoon can be funny. A great cartoon can speak to anyone—anywhere—without needing translation.” ⸻ 

📚 Paper vs. Pixels: The Emotional Layout We spent part of this episode reflecting on something I think about a lot—the difference between digital and analog storytelling. “I want people to see the whole page,” Justin told me. “Composition, balance, flow—it hits you all at once. On a phone, it’s just frame by frame. You lose something.” He’s right. Comics, like music or visual art, are a full-body experience. You don’t just scroll through them—you step into them. You feel them. And Justin’s work is full of that layered, emotional resonance. ⸻ 

🔄 Teaching Through Comics (Without Saying It Out Loud) Perhaps the most powerful thread in this conversation is how Justin teaches cartooning to middle schoolers—not by focusing on punchlines or technique, but by embedding lessons in emotional intelligence. Empathy. Attunement. Compassion. He doesn’t label it that way, of course—because kids would roll their eyes. But it’s there, in every facial expression they draw. Every emotion they map from observation to page. “It’s humanity training,” he says. “They just think it’s cartooning.” ⸻ 

🎯 The Mythtickle Takeaway If you’ve ever wondered how silly jokes and ancient mythology could collide to form something deeply human, Mythtickle is your answer. And if you’ve ever wanted to see what a creative life looks like when it’s lived with intention, compassion, and more than a few dragons… then spend some time with Justin’s work. You’ll laugh. You might cry. You’ll definitely want to draw something. ⸻ 

RESOURCES
Listen to the episode on Audio Signals 👉 https://www.audiosignalspodcast.com 
Watch the video on Youtube: 👉 https://youtu.be/9Yl4quXCkc8

📚 Explore Justin’s work and order his book 
🔗 https://mythtickle.com 
🔗 https://maddolphin.com 
🔗 https://www.facebook.com/p/MythTickle-100057584344635/ 
🎨 https://www.gocomics.com/mythtickle 

Keywords: Justin Thompson, Peanuts illustrator, Mythtickle comic strip, Charles Schulz Studio, empathy through art, teaching cartooning to kids, GoComics comic artists, mythology and storytelling, emotional storytelling, Linus blanket children’s book, drawing without words, Audio Signals Podcast

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For more podcast stories from Audio Signals: 
https://www.itspmagazine.com/audio-signals

Watch the video version on-demand on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllS0aVY7qlwHxX3uiN7tqqsy

Are you interested in sponsoring an ITSPmagazine Channel?
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Drawing from Empathy: Storytelling, Mythology, and Cartooning with Mythtickle Creator Justin Thompson | Audio Signals Podcast With Marco Ciappelli

Guest:
Sam Foster 

👉 Website: https://www.samfosterbooks.com
👉 Substack: https://samfoster.substack.com
👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-foster-6b45798/
 

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Host: Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals Podcast

👉 Website: https://www.marcociappelli.com

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🎙️ Thy Mother Is A Lioness: Historical Fiction and the Stories That Shape Us — A Conversation with Sam Foster

We’re traveling through time on today’s Audio Signals.

📚✨ Sam Foster is not just a writer of historical fiction—he’s a storyteller who traces the human condition through past lives, layered narratives, and deeply researched characters. In this episode, Sam and I talk about growing up in the Midwest, writing from lived experience, and eventually leaping into the rich, complex worlds of Renaissance Italy and 19th-century America.

🔍 What makes a story authentic? Where’s the line between historical fact and narrative freedom? And how do you tell stories that resonate across generations, languages, and borders? Sam’s latest book Thy Mother Is A Lioness explores powerful women in a male-dominated world—from Florence to France—and it’s all unfolding exclusively on Substack.

But this conversation isn’t just about the past—it’s about the process: What drives a writer to chase the “why”? Why is storytelling a purpose, not just a profession? And how is technology opening new doors for creatives, even those writing about centuries gone by?
 

👁️‍🗨️ This one goes beyond plotlines and timelines. It’s about identity, purpose, creative freedom—and the future of storytelling itself.

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📝 Keywords: historical fiction, storytelling, Renaissance, Medici family, powerful women in history, writing process, Substack publishing, creative freedom, Midwest America, author interview, book launch

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For more podcast stories from Audio Signals: 
https://www.itspmagazine.com/audio-signals

Watch the video version on-demand on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllQvnJ8eHUlVX8AuyhehtexA

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Thy Mother Is A Lioness: Historical Fiction and the Stories That Shape Us — A Conversation with Sam Foster | Audio Signals Podcast With Marco Ciappelli

Guest:
Robin Hamilton

Website: https://www.aroundrobin.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinhamilton123/

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Host: Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals Podcast

Website: https://www.marcociappelli.com

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Episode Title: 🎙️✨ 
From Newsroom to Lens: Robin Hamilton’s Journey Through Documentary Filmmaking and Social Activism

Episode Intro:
Hey everybody, Marco here, and welcome back to another episode of Audio Signals. Today, we're diving deep into the heart of storytelling—but from a compelling perspective that bridges journalism and visual creativity: documentary filmmaking. My guest today is Robin Hamilton, an Emmy-award-winning filmmaker and former journalist who passionately blends her craft with advocacy to inspire meaningful social transformation.

Robin's journey is truly captivating. Her films highlight powerful yet often overlooked figures who have significantly shaped history and society, bringing crucial attention to race, social justice, and women's contributions. Through heartfelt projects like This Little Light of Mine: The Legacy of Fannie Lou Hamer, she sheds light on historical figures whose stories resonate deeply today, reminding us of ongoing battles for civil rights, voting rights, and human dignity.

In our conversation, Robin shares the evolution of her storytelling approach—from quick-hit news reporting to the immersive world of documentaries. We explore how she discovers compelling stories like that of Odessa Madre, dubbed the "Black Al Capone" of 1950s Washington D.C., revealing complexities that challenge societal expectations and question how talent can flourish—or falter—based on opportunities provided. As Robin explains, choosing the right visuals, music, and narrative angles is critical in creating documentaries that truly engage, inspire, and provoke thoughtful reflection.

We'll discuss Robin's meticulous creative process, from initial inspiration to final production, and her bold decision to direct her films independently, driven by passion rather than convention. We’ll also explore why authentic storytelling matters so much to her—and how it can profoundly move audiences.

It's all about stories, storytellers, and using narratives to ignite meaningful change—one compelling film at a time.

Ready to explore the impact of storytelling through documentaries? Let's dive in.

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For more podcast stories from Audio Signals: 
https://www.itspmagazine.com/audio-signals

Watch the video version on-demand on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllQvnJ8eHUlVX8AuyhehtexA

Are you interested in advertising your brand on ITSPmagazine?
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From Newsroom to Lens: Robin Hamilton’s Journey Through Documentary Filmmaking and Social Activism | Audio Signals Podcast With Marco Ciappelli

Guest: Frank Scalise 

Website | https://franksaverio.com 
Website | https://frankscalise.com
Website | https://frankzafiro.com 

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Host: Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals Podcast

Website: https://www.marcociappelli.com

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Episode Title: 🎙️✨ Shifting Realities: Crime, Sci-Fi, and the Art of Storytelling with Frank Scalise

Guest: Frank Scalise 

Short Intro: In this episode of Audio Signals, host Marco Ciappelli sits down with Frank Saverio / Zafiro / Scalise to explore the evolution of his writing career. 

Show Notes:

🎙️✨ Shifting Realities: Crime, Sci-Fi, and the Art of Storytelling with Frank Saverio

📚 From crime-ridden streets to the vast unknown of space, author Frank Scalise (a.k.a. Frank Zafiro a.k.a. Frank Saverio) is no stranger to weaving gripping tales across multiple genres. With a background in law enforcement, he first made his mark writing gritty crime fiction before diving into the speculative realms of sci-fi and fantasy. But what drives a storyteller to switch between such different worlds?

In this episode of Audio Signals, host Marco Ciappelli sits down with Frank to explore the evolution of his writing career. They discuss the importance of keeping reader expectations clear (hence the multiple pen names), the unexpected parallels between crime fiction and sci-fi, and how storytelling serves as a powerful lens to examine society, human nature, and even our own mortality.

🚀 Frank’s latest sci-fi novel, Kemper’s House, is a thought-provoking exploration of space travel, time dilation, and the unsettling feeling of being a "man out of time." Inspired by both historical cycles and the rapid acceleration of technology, the book raises deep philosophical questions about progress, cultural shifts, and what it truly means to belong. In a distant future where humanity has finally unlocked the ability to travel at 87% the speed of light, an interstellar crew embarks on a deep-space mission after intercepting mysterious radio signals from a distant civilization. Captain Adrian Kemper leads the expedition to the Chiron system, but what they find is far different from what they imagined. By the time they arrive, nearly 1,000 years have passed on the distant planet, and civilization has either evolved or vanished entirely. But the real challenge comes when they return to Earth—another 1,500 years later.

🎸 Beyond writing, Frank also shares his passion for music—despite self-proclaimed struggles with guitar and rhythm. Whether it's crafting a novel, strumming a few chords, or reflecting on the changing world around him, one thing remains clear: storytelling is at the heart of it all.

📌 Join us on this conversation to uncover how Frank balances multiple creative identities, why genre-hopping makes for richer storytelling, and what’s next on his ever-expanding horizon.

📌 Discover more storytellers on Audio Signals: https://www.itspmagazine.com/audio-signals

Watch the video version on-demand on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllQvnJ8eHUlVX8AuyhehtexA

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Resources

Kemper's House Kindle Edition
https://www.amazon.com/Kempers-House-Frank-Saverio-ebook/dp/B0CWGC6QGL

by Frank Saverio (Author) Format: Kindle Edition

What if the cost of first contact was leaving behind a world you’d never recognize upon return?

On the heels of discovering interstellar travel, humanity has stumbled upon the first signs of intelligent life in another system. Captain Adrian Kemper is selected to lead the expedition to Kyra-2B in order to make first contact with the Kyrans. He departs a world struggling to deal with overpopulation, knowing that the realities of space travel will mean the Earth he eventually returns to will no longer be home. Even the stone cottage he loves may not remain.

Despite this, Kemper accepts the mission. He leads an elite crew of optimistic scientists on a journey that will traverse hundreds of light years before reaching an alien world.

What they find is truly unexpected.

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For more podcast stories from Audio Signals: 
https://www.itspmagazine.com/audio-signals

Watch the video version on-demand on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllQvnJ8eHUlVX8AuyhehtexA

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Shifting Realities: Crime, Sci-Fi, and the Art of Storytelling with Frank Scalise | Audio Signals Podcast With Marco Ciappelli

Guest: Stephen Jay Schwartz, 

Website | https://www.stephenjayschwartz.com/

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Host: Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals Podcast

Website: https://www.marcociappelli.com

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Episode Title: The Rhythm of Storytelling: From Screenwriting to Novels with Stephen Jay Schwartz

Guest: Stephen Jay Schwartz

Short Intro: How does storytelling change across books, movies, and music? Stephen Jay Schwartz joins Marco to discuss the art of crafting stories that resonate across mediums.

Show Notes:

Storytelling is more than words on a page—it’s rhythm, structure, and emotion. In this episode of Audio Signals, Marco Ciappelli welcomes back Stephen Jay Schwartz, a novelist, screenwriter, and former director of development in Hollywood. Their conversation explores the differences between writing novels and screenplays, the challenge of adapting stories across mediums, and the musicality of language in writing.

What happens when a book becomes a movie? Many argue the book is always better, but is that really the case? Schwartz, having worked closely with directors and screenwriters, explains how the transition from text to film is often a process of distillation—finding the essence of a story and reshaping it to fit a new format. He shares insights from his experience in Hollywood, where screenplays often change hands and visions evolve. Does this creative transformation enhance the original work, or does it strip away its soul?

The discussion then shifts to a more fundamental aspect of storytelling: rhythm. Drawing from his musical background, Schwartz describes how writing, much like composing music, involves an inherent cadence. Sentences have beats, paragraphs flow with momentum, and dialogue needs a natural tempo. Whether consciously or not, every good writer crafts their prose with a certain musicality that enhances readability and engagement.

Marco and Stephen also touch on the way different minds visualize stories. Not everyone ‘sees’ scenes play out in their head while reading—some need visual prompts, while others experience narrative through an auditory lens. How does this affect the way we consume stories? With attention spans shrinking, are we losing the patience for immersive storytelling in books, gravitating instead toward visually driven media?

Before wrapping up, they pose a philosophical question: When is a story truly finished? Da Vinci reportedly never considered the Mona Lisa complete, and writers often feel similarly about their work. Does a story ever really end, or does it just reach a stopping point?

For anyone fascinated by the intersection of storytelling, film, and music, this episode offers thought-provoking insights. Tune in for a conversation that challenges assumptions about creative processes and the evolving landscape of narrative arts.

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Resources

Bio, books, and more: https://www.stephenjayschwartz.com/

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For more podcast stories from Audio Signals: 
https://www.itspmagazine.com/audio-signals

Watch the video version on-demand on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllQvnJ8eHUlVX8AuyhehtexA

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The Rhythm of Storytelling: From Screenwriting to Novels with Stephen Jay Schwartz | Audio Signals Podcast With Marco Ciappelli

Guests: 
Karen Meades, Author 
https://www.amazon.com/My-Limitless-Life-Karen-Meades/dp/1068973102

Barry Finlay, Author 
https://www.barry-finlay.com

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Host: Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society & Technology Podcast & Audio Signals Podcast

On ITSPmagazine | https://www.marcociappelli.com

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This Episode’s Sponsors

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Episode Introduction

Book "My Limitless Life" I Interview with Authors Karen Meades and Barry Finlay

Welcome back, storytellers and story lovers!

A new year, a fresh start, and more stories to share. After an intense 2024 filled with thought-provoking conversations, I took a little time in January to recharge, reflect, and prepare for what promises to be an even bigger and more exciting year of storytelling. Many episodes have already been recorded and are making their way into production, and I can't wait for you to hear them.

So, if you love stories—real or imagined—this is the place to be. Audio Signals is not just about storytelling; it’s about the storytellers, the people who craft, shape, and bring stories to life. And what better way to kick off 2025 than with a conversation about pushing limits, embracing adventure, and turning extraordinary experiences into words on a page?

For this first episode of the year, I’m joined by Karen Meades and Barry Finlay, co-authors of My Limitless Life.

Karen’s story isn’t just about endurance—it’s about the power of saying ‘yes’ to adventure. Years ago, she was a busy professional, a mother, and—by her own admission—far from an athlete. But when she signed up for a simple 5K race, something clicked. That one decision led to another, and then another. Before she knew it, she wasn’t just running local races—she was pushing herself into the most extreme environments on the planet.

From conquering 250-kilometer self-supported ultramarathons through the Amazon jungle, the Sahara Desert, and even Antarctica, to swimming from Alcatraz to San Francisco, Karen has consistently sought out the toughest physical and mental challenges imaginable. But she doesn’t see herself as extraordinary. She believes that anyone can take on big challenges, step by step—just as she did.

Her story is a reminder that limits are often self-imposed. That the difference between the impossible and the achievable is often just a willingness to try. And yet, life has a way of throwing unexpected twists. In recent years, Karen had to confront a new and very different challenge—one that forced her to reimagine adventure in a whole new way. But, as you’ll hear, she didn’t stop moving forward. She simply found a new path.

Barry, an accomplished writer and adventurer himself, helped bring Karen’s journey to life, weaving her experiences into a compelling book that’s as much about personal growth as it is about adventure. In our conversation, we explore what drives someone to take on seemingly impossible feats, how pushing boundaries can change the way we see the world, and what happens when life forces us to redefine our own limits.

Whether you’re looking for motivation, an adrenaline rush, or just a great story, this episode has something for you.

So, let’s jump in. Welcome to 2025, welcome back to Audio Signals, and here’s our first episode of the year—enjoy!

About Karen Meades
Her story is nothing short of inspiring. From joining a running club for some “me time” to becoming the third Canadian woman to conquer the Racing the Planet/4 Deserts Ultramarathon Series, her journey is remarkable. Despite not seeing herself as athletic, Karen's feats in running, swimming, and navigating some of the world's toughest terrains are truly awe-inspiring.

Balancing a successful career as an accountant and executive with her adventurous spirit, Karen's professional achievements are equally impressive. She co-founded a health program in the North, raised an extraordinary daughter, and even married her husband in Antarctica.

After a medical diagnosis, Karen's resilience continued to shine as she embraced new passions like exploring the rugged New Zealand Alps on an e-bike, walking in the woods, and beekeeping. Her story, My Limitless Life, is a captivating read filled with humour, tension, and breathtaking scenes, encouraging readers to embrace challenges with courage and optimism.

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Resources

Get The Book: https://www.amazon.com/My-Limitless-Life-Karen-Meades/dp/1068973102

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For more podcast stories from Audio Signals: 
https://audiosignalspodcast.com

Watch the video version on-demand on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@itspmagazine

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Book "My Limitless Life" I Interview with Authors Karen Meades and Barry Finlay | Audio Signals Podcast With Marco Ciappelli

Guest: Michael Pickard, Author

On LinkedIn | https://linkedin.com/in/mipickard

On Twitter | https://x.com/gerfnitauthor

On Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/gerfnitauthor/

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Host: Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals Podcast

On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/marco-ciappelli

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This Episode’s Sponsors

Are you interested in sponsoring an ITSPmagazine Channel?
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Episode Introduction

Michael's journey into writing began when he started crafting thoughtful letters filled with life lessons and engaging narratives for his daughter. What began as a personal gesture evolved into published works, laying the foundation for a unique voice in storytelling.

Balancing Logic and Creativity

Michael’s background in software development gives him a fascinating ability to blend analytical thinking with creativity. It’s this duality that fuels his intricate detective novels, weaving complex plots, red herrings, and twists that keep readers hooked.

Transitioning Genres: From Sci-Fi to Mystery

We explored Michael’s shift from writing sci-fi to focusing on the mystery and detective genre. He shared how his characters take on lives of their own, sometimes guiding the story in directions he didn’t initially anticipate. It’s this organic growth that gives his novels depth and authenticity.

Meet Nick Chasm: A Detective with Heart

A centerpiece of our conversation was Michael’s detective series featuring Nick Chasm. This isn’t your typical mystery series—it’s character-driven, with Nick’s personal life intricately tied to his cases. For Michael, storytelling is about more than solving mysteries; it’s about making readers reflect on life, choices, and consequences.

The Role of Storytelling in a Modern World

In an age dominated by technology, Michael and I discussed the enduring importance of storytelling in connecting us to our humanity. Through his narratives, Michael crafts bridges between readers and the complex emotions and dilemmas of his characters.

Looking Toward the Future

We wrapped up by discussing how technology, including tools like generative AI, might shape the future of storytelling. With Michael’s background in software, his perspective on this intersection of creativity and tech is sure to be insightful.

This conversation was a true delight, offering a glimpse into the art of crafting stories that entertain, provoke thought, and resonate on a deeper level.

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Resources

Explore Michael's books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Michael-Pickard/author/B000APFNIO?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

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For more podcast stories from Audio Signals: 
https://www.itspmagazine.com/audio-signals

Watch the video version on-demand on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllQvnJ8eHUlVX8AuyhehtexA

Are you interested in sponsoring an ITSPmagazine Channel?
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Nick Chasm, Red Herrings, and Letters That Started It All: Michael Pickard on Writing Mysteries and Storytelling | Audio Signals Podcast With Marco Ciappelli

Guest: Stephen Jay Schwartz, 

Website | https://www.stephenjayschwartz.com/

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Host: Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals Podcast

On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/marco-ciappelli

_____________________________

This Episode’s Sponsors

Are you interested in sponsoring an ITSPmagazine Channel?
👉 https://www.itspmagazine.com/sponsor-the-itspmagazine-podcast-network

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Episode Introduction

Hello, fellow storytellers! I'm excited to bring you another fascinating episode of Audio Signals Podcast. Today, we journey through the layers of storytelling with my good friend and talented author, Stephen Jay Schwartz. Our conversation brings back old memories, revisits his celebrated works like Boulevard, and unpacks the intricate art of writing.

From Coffee Shop Chats to Bestsellers

Reconnecting with Stephen brought a wave of memories from the days we’d meet at a coffee shop in South Bay, Los Angeles, bouncing ideas over countless cups of coffee. Stephen and I share a unique bond, having lived through defining chapters that shaped our creative paths. His journey from a Hollywood story editor and development executive to a bestselling author is nothing short of inspiring.

The Intersection of Music, Film, and Writing

Stephen’s storytelling prowess is intertwined with his love for music and film, which heavily influences his writing style. His approach to rhythm in prose is like composing a symphony. As we explored his craft, Stephen described how writing screenplays refined his ability to tell a story concisely—a skill that transitioned seamlessly into his novels.

A Look into the World of Boulevard

Stephen’s book Boulevard dives deep into the hard-boiled genre, weaving a story-within-a-story. The protagonist’s personal struggles create a resonant narrative, enriched by Stephen's own life experiences, lending authenticity to the story.

Hard-Boiled Noir and the Craft of Plotting

Stephen’s fascination with intense, dark narratives led us to discuss genres like hard-boiled and noir. His skill in balancing intricate plots with nuanced character development shines through. Hearing how he carefully plots each story, likening the process to striking musical notes, was nothing short of captivating.

Rhythm and Melody in Words

A highlight of our conversation was Stephen’s view on the musicality of writing. He explained how sentences carry rhythm, much like a piece of music, infusing a harmonic flow that elevates the reading experience. This glimpse into his process offered an inspiring new perspective on the art of writing.

The Challenges of New Beginnings

Venturing into new creative waters, Stephen shared insights into his upcoming dystopian novel set in 2099. Crafting a fresh protagonist and exploring unfamiliar genres presented new challenges, but his passion for storytelling remains at the forefront as he navigates this terrain.

A Conversation to Remember

I hope this episode leaves you as inspired as I am. Stephen's journey from Hollywood to the world of novels underscores the power of authentic storytelling. I look forward to diving even deeper into his perspective in future episodes, exploring the storytelling nuances that continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

Stay tuned, subscribe for more insightful stories, and remember: every story has a rhythm waiting to be discovered.

About the Book

LAPD detective Hayden Glass has only one vice…the girls who work the streets he’s vowed to protect.

Hayden Glass never had it easy. He fought hard for everything he got, hounded by a shame that he could never quite define or conquer. Now a Los Angeles Police Department Robbery-Homicide detective, Glass is still haunted by the scars that left a permanent void in his soul. He deals with it the only way he can . . . . he cruises Sunset Boulevard, picking up prostitutes. Hayden Glass is a sex addict.

Called to investigate a heinous crime scene involving the niece of a prominent L.A. politician, Glass is quickly overwhelmed by the media spotlight. When new murders arise, Glass sees a link where no one else does, realizing that this is the work of a vicious, sadistic sexual predator.

But the link, seen through Hayden’s eyes, reveals the darkest connection…Hayden himself.

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Resources

Boulevard (Book): khttps://www.stephenjayschwartz.com/boulevard/

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For more podcast stories from Audio Signals: 
https://www.itspmagazine.com/audio-signals

Watch the video version on-demand on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllQvnJ8eHUlVX8AuyhehtexA

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Book | Boulevard and Beyond | Exploring the Art of Storytelling with Best Selling Author Stephen Jay Schwartz | Audio Signals Podcast With Marco Ciappelli

Music holds a special place in most humans' hearts. It makes us feel; makes us think; makes us act; makes us interact. The history and future of music are filled with innovation, technology, and hacking. When you know what the rules are, you can break them. This holds true for the way humans engage with sound and vibration.

What does the future hold for us humans as it relates to music and sound? Have a listen to this Unusual Gathering to get a uniquely-shared, yet interestingly distant view from our guests.

Guest(s)
Seth Cluett | Scott Scheferman (aka Shaggie)

This Episode’s Sponsors:

If you’d like to sponsor this or any other podcast episode on ITSPmagazine, you can learn more here:
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The Future Of Music And Its Impact On Society And Humanity | With Seth Cluett and Scott Scheferman (Shagghie)

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