The Volunteer: The Failure of the Death Penalty in America and One Inmate's Quest to Die with Dignity by Gianna Toboni Amazon.com A riveting account of one death row inmate’s quest to die—and a fearless look at how America’s system of punishment has failed the public it claims to serve. When Scott Dozier was sent to Nevada’s death row in 2007, convicted of a pair of grisly murders, he didn’t cry foul or embark upon a protracted innocence campaign. He sought instead to expedite his execution—to hasten his inevitable death. He decided he would rather face his end swiftly than die slowly in solitary confinement. In volunteering for execution, Dozier may have been unusual. But in the tortuous events that led his death date to be scheduled and rescheduled, planned and then stayed, his time on death row was anything but. In The Volunteer, Emmy award–winning investigative reporter Gianna Toboni traces the twists and turns of Dozier’s story, along the way offering a hard look at the history and controversy that surround the death penalty today. Toboni reveals it to be a system rife with black market dealings and supply chain labyrinths, with disputed drugs and botched executions. Today’s death penalty, generally carried out through lethal injection, has proven so cumbersome, ineffective, and potentially harrowing that some states have considered a return to the electric chairs and firing squads of the past, believing those approaches to be not only more effective but more humane. No matter where you stand on the morality of capital punishment, there’s no denying that the death penalty is failing the American public. With costs running into the billions and countless lives kept in limbo, it has proven incapable of achieving its desired end: executing the inmates that fellow Americans have deemed guilty of the most heinous crimes. With The Volunteer, Toboni offers an insightful and profound look at how the death penalty went so terribly wrong. A spellbinding story down to its shocking conclusion, it brings to light the horrifying realities of state-sanctioned killings—realities that many would prefer to ignore.

Overcoming Addiction: Estle Wallace's Journey to Helping Others Cornerstonehealingcenter.com About the Guest(s): Estil Wallace is the CEO and founder of Cornerstone Healing Center, a behavioral healthcare agency that under his leadership has expanded significantly, growing 15 times over in the past seven years. A father, husband, entrepreneur, and investor, Estle’s journey from battling addiction and homelessness to building a successful business has positioned him as a passionate advocate for change and transformation. With over 20 years of sobriety, he leverages both his personal experiences and professional expertise to inspire and guide others towards recovery. Estle is also the host of the "Struggle and Strive" podcast where he explores topics related to addiction recovery, leadership, and personal growth. Episode Summary: In this enlightening episode of The Chris Voss Show, host Chris Voss delves into the inspiring and powerful story of Estle Wallace, CEO of Cornerstone Healing Center. The episode offers an intimate look at Estle’s personal journey from addiction and homelessness to years of sobriety and successful entrepreneurship. Highlighting both his professional achievements and his personal growth, the conversation showcases how life's adversities can be transformed into a passion for helping others. Estle shares insights into the current addiction crisis, emphasizing the need for accessible recovery solutions and the deep human impact of substance use disorders. Throughout the discussion, Estle provides a detailed perspective on the nuances of addiction, the intersection of personal trauma and substance use, and the importance of aligning one's values with actions for lasting change. The episode also sheds light on the wider societal issues related to addiction, with Estle offering suggestions on identifying substance abuse problems, seeking help, and the significant impact of treatment centers like Cornerstone Healing Center. Additionally, the conversation touches upon the opioid crisis, emphasizing the critical role rehabilitation plays in addressing these widespread issues. Through Estle's personal anecdotes and professional insights, the episode paints a realistic yet hopeful picture of recovery and transformation. Key Takeaways: Understanding Addiction: Estle highlights the profound impact of personal and familial trauma on addiction and how fundamental recovery is to navigating life with these complex challenges. Sobriety and Success: A vital part of the conversation is Estle’s narrative of overcoming addiction to lead a fulfilling, productive life, serving as a beacon of hope for those battling similar struggles. Behavioral Health Insights: The episode offers a deep dive into the workings of Cornerstone Healing Center, painting a detailed picture of what comprehensive behavioral health care entails. Fentanyl and Alcohol Addiction: A critical topic discussed is the alarming rate of fatal overdoses from fentanyl and alcohol, showcasing the urgency for better intervention and support systems. Guidelines for Recovery: Estle shares candid insights on the practical steps toward recovery, underscoring the power of community and professional support in fostering long-term sobriety. Notable Quotes: "You do that for a long enough period, you start building a life worth living, worth salvaging, worth having, worth striving for." "If you're asking yourself, 'Am I an alcoholic?' You probably are. It's a good indicator already." "It's the illness that's unique in the respect that the person suffering from it defends it for a long time." "I started making some new friends with people who were trying to fix up their lives as well." "When you're sick and tired of being sick and tired."

Revolutionizing Dating: Endgame App's Intentional Matchmaking Approach Endgame.dating About the Guest(s): Dr. Baxlee Bynum PhD. is a licensed therapist with over a decade of experience focused on enhancing couple relationships using scientifically proven methods. Dr. Bynum offers deep insights into the psychology of relationships and aims to revolutionize online dating through new technologies. Dr. Maegen Renee PhD. is a licensed professional counselor and business owner with extensive experience in mental health. Her expertise includes working with individuals and couples to improve communication and relational dynamics. Both Dr. Bynum and Dr. Renee are instrumental in the development of the innovative dating app, Endgame. Episode Summary: In this episode of The Chris Voss Show, host Chris Voss dives into the intricacies of modern dating with Dr. Baxlee Bynum PhD. and Dr. Maegen Renee PhD., key figures behind the groundbreaking dating app, Endgame. Throughout the episode, they explore the endemic issues plaguing current dating platforms, from superficial connections to ghosting, and introduce a new approach that aims to transform the online dating landscape. This episode promises to deliver insightful discussions on how Endgame is setting a new standard with factors like intentional dating and scientific assessment methodologies. The conversation unveils how Endgame differentiates itself from traditional dating apps by emphasizing values like genuine connection, emotional intelligence, and reduced choice overload. Dr. Bynum and Dr. Renee reveal the psychological science behind Endgame's visual decision-making assessment designed to match users on compatibility rather than superficial traits. The episode also tackles critical issues such as married individuals on dating apps, ghosting, and the pervasive hookup culture, providing listeners with both awareness and strategies for more fulfilling dating experiences. Notably, the hosts and guests examine the transformative potential of intentional dating, offering a fresh and hopeful perspective on building meaningful relationships online. Key Takeaways: Intentional Dating: Endgame focuses on aligning users who are serious about forming genuine, long-lasting connections, contrasting with the more superficial nature of traditional dating apps. Visual Decision-Making: The app uses a unique psychological assessment based on visual choices to match individuals by values and preferences, cutting through superficial criteria. Anti-Ghosting Features: Built-in mechanisms encourage timely communication and substantive interaction between matches, addressing ghosting and decision fatigue. Combatting False Profiles and Bots: Through unique features, Endgame effectively filters out non-serious users and bots, creating a safer, more authentic dating environment. Focus on Quality over Quantity: The app favors fewer, quality matches, reducing choice overload and making the dating process more streamlined and effective. Notable Quotes: "If you're serious about dating and finding a long-lasting relationship, join our app. If not, just don't do it." - Dr. Baxlee Bynum PhD. "Our system is really instinctual, tapping into subconscious choices to understand what people truly value." - Dr. Maegen Renee PhD. "More efficient, more intentional, more purposeful dating—that's our simple goal." - Dr. Baxlee Bynum PhD. "Your time is valuable…we encourage you to date intentionally and put better use of your time on an app." - Dr. Maegen Renee PhD. "We need all the help we can get out there." - Chris Voss

Unlocking the Warrior's Path: Finding Purpose and Balance in Life with Kamran Loghman Riseofgiants.com About the Guest(s): Kamran Loghman is a renowned CEO, inventor of pepper spray, and a professor specializing in business and Eastern philosophy. A leading expert in Enlightened Warriors Philosophy and Discipline, he has advised numerous VIPs and globally recognized brands. For over a decade, Cameron worked closely with Apple Senior Executives on various projects. Currently, he is focused on his new venture and podcast, "Rise of Giants," where he continues to influence and inspire individuals by teaching comprehensive life strategies rooted in the warrior's philosophy. Episode Summary: In this captivating episode of The Chris Voss Show, Chris sits down with Kamran Loghman, a visionary leader and thinker responsible for inventing pepper spray and providing strategic insights to high-profile clients like Apple executives. Kamran Loghman discusses his new initiative, "Rise of Giants," a platform dedicated to exploring the transformative power of the warrior's journey and its modern applications. Discover how his unique insights can provide a roadmap for personal growth and leadership, offering crucial lessons on balancing life's multifaceted challenges. Kamran Loghman delves into the core aspects of the warrior's code, explaining how this ancient philosophy is relevant today. He emphasizes the importance of what he calls the "four legs of life": mental and physical fitness, prosperity, relationships, and personal purpose. Cameron argues that achieving a balance in these areas equips individuals to face life's inherent challenges effectively. He also shares his journey, including his influence on various industries, and how his profound understanding of different philosophies shapes his approach to success and leadership. Tune in to understand why finding one's purpose is critical, especially for men struggling to find their path in today's rapidly changing world. Key Takeaways: The warrior's journey is an ancient and universal framework for personal growth and leadership that is still relevant today. Balance in mental fitness, physical health, prosperity, and relationships is crucial for a well-rounded and fulfilling life. To find purpose, individuals should reflect on their passions, dreams, and childhood interests, aligned with practical data. Cameron Logman's diverse experiences, from inventing pepper spray to advising major corporations, demonstrate the importance of a comprehensive approach to life. Modern societies can draw profound lessons from ancient warrior philosophies to handle contemporary challenges and improve overall well-being. Notable Quotes: "Life is challenging and you need to build that concept of warrior now, take this to modern world now." "The heroic journey is unavoidable. You either start it now or at the age of 65, 70, you start regretting." "Balance of the table. You have to address all four of them." "Each person has to, there is a part in yogi and philosophy and warriors and every culture." "This is the most powerful transformation I have seen about reinventing life and work."

Shannon Weston Transforms Health with Vibe Foods' Organic Offerings Lovevibefoods.com About the Guest(s): Shannon Weston is a former insurance executive and a dedicated mother of four whose journey into the realm of health and wellness was galvanized by a personal challenge. When her son was diagnosed with celiac disease after years of misdiagnosis, Shannon turned her attention to understanding the impact of nutrition on health. This led her to found Vibe Foods in 2017, a company that emphasizes 'food as medicine'. Vibe Foods is dedicated to producing high-quality, natural food products free from chemicals and artificial ingredients. The company now boasts three locations in Colorado and is preparing to expand with an online store. Episode Summary: In this episode of The Chris Voss Show Podcast, we explore an inspiring journey of discovery and entrepreneurship with Shannon Weston, the founder of Vibe Foods. Shannon's personal journey began when her son was diagnosed with celiac disease, a realization that catalyzed her deep dive into the world of nutrition and health-focused eating. Shannon shares how her family transitioned from traditional eating habits to a health-centric lifestyle, underpinning her mission to provide readily accessible clean food options devoid of chemicals and artificial ingredients. Highlighting Vibe Foods' commitment to quality, Shannon discusses overcoming the challenges of entrepreneurship during significant events like the COVID-19 pandemic and her resolute dedication to offering trustworthy, health-promoting food options. Listeners will gain insights into Shannon's passion for holistic health and the transformative power of nutrition with a specific focus on food as medicine. This episode is rich with SEO-optimized content, discussing vital themes such as healthy eating, gluten-free diets, and entrepreneurship in challenging times. Shannon articulates her dedication to clean eating through the lens of Vibe Foods, illustrating the positive impact that dietary changes had not only on her son but on her entire family's well-being. She shares her vision of expanding Vibe Foods’ reach to communities across the nation via a soon-to-launch online store, embodying the phrase "eat to win." Key Takeaways: Shannon Weston turned her son's celiac disease diagnosis into an opportunity to understand the impact of nutrition on health, leading to the establishment of Vibe Foods. Vibe Foods prides itself on providing clean, nutritious, and health-promoting foods without chemicals or artificial ingredients. The company's philosophy is rooted in the concept of 'food as medicine', advocating that diet has a profound impact on both physical and mental health. Vibe Foods navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, maintaining focus on expansion and launching an online store to offer their products nationwide. Shannon’s story exemplifies how personal conviction and a drive for better health can blossom into a successful entrepreneurial journey. Notable Quotes: "Healthy food can actually be delicious." "The human body is amazing; it wants to pull you back towards homeostasis." "Life is such a gift. Every day we're here is a gift." "We do not compromise." "Eat to win is everything." Resources: Vibe Foods Website: lovevibefoods.com Instagram: @vibefoodssuperfoodbar Discover the transformative power of prioritizing health through nutrition with Shannon Weston's insights. Listen to this episode to dive deeper into her entrepreneurial journey and to learn more about the philosophy and products of Vibe Foods. Stay tuned for more enlightening content from The Chris Voss Show Podcast.

Play Stupid Games, Win Stupid Prizes: Short stories about friendship, growth, and social misdemeanors by Andy Dietrich Amazon.com Andysbook.com Ever wonder what happens when you crash the wrong wedding or mistake a fraternity rush for a question about your heritage? How about fashioning a fake nightclub stamp empire in Vegas, or trying (and failing) to pull off a flawless heist for a Super Nintendo game? From laugh-out-loud anecdotes to surprisingly heartfelt reflections, this collection explores themes of friendship, growth, and the chaos that comes with simply trying to be human. Tackling everything from awkward cultural misunderstandings to the wild adventures of military life, this book offers readers a candid, hilarious, and sometimes poignant glimpse into a life lived fully—and occasionally just recklessly enough. Some highlights... “Are You Russian?”: The awkward misunderstanding that kicked off a college fraternity adventure. “That One Time I Witnessed a Divorce”: A Chipotle line, a hair tie, and a (potentially) marriage-ending discovery. “When You Mess It Up for Everyone Else”: How one man’s shenanigans changed Vegas club re-entry policies forever. “Honey Bee Did What Honey Bees Do”: The miraculous conception story that starts with a bottle of Patrón. “The Night I Lost My Damn Mind”: An unforgettable encounter with medical-grade THC and pulled-pork sliders. Play Stupid Games, Win Stupid Prizes is perfect for fans of David Sedaris, Tucker Max, or anyone who has ever made a questionable decision and lived to laugh about it later. With a mix of humor, heart, and the occasional ridiculous life lesson, this book will leave you smiling, shaking your head, and maybe even feeling a little better about your own misadventures. “If you’re gonna do something stupid, be smart about it.”About the author Andy Dietrich was born at an early age and lived a fairly uneventful life in the Black Forest of Germany. At age 14, he and his mom packed their things and moved to Alaska to experience the true meaning of "holy shit, it's cold!" At 19, while on a sugar high, he enlisted and became one of Uncle Sam's Misguided Children. He was released early due to good behavior and moved to Las Vegas where he now spends his time harassing, errr...."welcoming" the tourists and exercising his second-favorite drinking arm. If you come across a wild Andy in his natural habitat, do not feed him attention; he will only come back for more.

False Claims: One Insider's Impossible Battle Against Big Pharma Corruption by Lisa Pratta Amazon.com Lisapratta.com In Big Pharma, lives are secondary to profit margins. But Lisa Pratta stood her ground—risking everything to expose the lies of a billion-dollar pharmaceutical business mired in deception, greed, and the systemic abuse of both patients and employees As a rising star in pharmaceutical sales, Lisa Pratta wanted to believe that she was helping improve the lives of people who suffered from illness. But as she climbed the corporate ladder, she uncovered a sinister world of bribery, fraud, and sexual harassment—all papered over with a thin veneer of corporate respectability. At Questcor Pharmaceuticals, Lisa found herself at a small company with a blockbuster drug that could have been a lifeline for patients suffering from multiple sclerosis—that is, if it was prescribed properly. But instead, Questcor chose profits over patients, training its sales force to push untested treatment regimens with the sole purpose of beating its competition. Lisa recognized this as not only dangerous but highly illegal. In the midst of this controversy, Questcor arbitrarily inflated the drug’s price to a jaw-dropping $28,000 per vial. Torn between her morals and the financial stability the job provided for her special-needs son, Lisa made a decision that would change her life forever: she reported the fraudulent practices of the company to the federal government. For nearly a decade, she led a double life—feeding insider information to the Department of Justice while enduring the relentless demands of her company to sell their drug using illegal marketing tactics. She faced constant fear of exposure, knowing that the government offered her no protection if her secrets were revealed. Nonetheless, Lisa pressed on, determined to hold Questcor accountable for the laws they were breaking and the lives they were endangering. This incredible true story offers a sobering look at the unscrupulous sales methods used by America’s corrupt pharmaceutical industry, spotlights the levers they pull to extract ludicrous profits from the sick and dying, and is a page-turning portrait of one woman’s heroic fight against Big Pharma and a mother’s struggle to protect her family.About the author Lisa Pratta was a top-selling pharmaceutical and biotech sales representative for thirty-two years, helping to pave the way for women in the field, only to see the entire in-dustry corrode with sexual harassment and fraud. Lisa was an honors graduate of Albright College before launching her career at pharma giants such as Astra Zeneca, Serono, and Questcor/Mallinckrodt. In 2012, while still employed at Questcor, Lisa became a whistle-blower reporting off-label prescriptions and Medicare fraud to the United States government and went under-cover for nearly a decade. She is a single mother of two, including a special-needs son.

Corrective Skin: Transforming Skincare with Clean, Effective Solutions with Kelly Brown Correctiveskin.com About the Guest(s): Kelly Brown is a seasoned entrepreneur in the skincare industry, holding the position of Founder and CEO at Corrective Skin. With nearly three decades of experience in aesthetics and skincare formulation, she has been a pivotal force in the development of clean and clinical skincare solutions. Kelly, a second-generation skincare expert, worked closely with her mother, who established Corrective Skin over 30 years ago. She is not only recognized for her success as a businesswoman but also as an educator, helping both professionals and clients navigate result-driven product solutions without harmful pharmaceuticals. Episode Summary: Join Chris Voss on The Chris Voss Show for an enlightening conversation with Kelly Brown, the powerhouse behind Corrective Skin. Brown shares insights from her entrepreneurial journey and how she cultivated a brand that intertwines integrity, education, and effective skincare solutions. Listeners are in for a treat as they delve into the science behind skincare, with discussions ranging from the importance of clean ingredients to understanding product formulations that genuinely work. In this episode, Kelly Brown emphasizes the significance of using non-toxic, paraben-free, and non-comedogenic skincare products. Her dedication to creating a clean and clinical brand without harmful chemicals is evident as she elaborates on Corrective Skin's approach, including their famous epidermal growth factor cream. Brown further discusses her efforts to provide accessible skincare education and her commitment to environmental sustainability through initiatives like the plant-a-tree program. Whether you're an existing skincare enthusiast or just beginning your journey, this conversation promises valuable takeaways on maintaining healthy skin and the long-term benefits of using quality skincare products. Key Takeaways: Importance of Clean Skincare: Kelly Brown discusses how Corrective Skin emphasizes non-toxic, paraben-free products designed not to clog pores. Family Legacy in Skincare: Corrective Skin was founded by Kelly’s mother over three decades ago, and Kelly has continued to evolve the brand by focusing on effective formulations. Science-backed Formulations: Products like the EGF cream use active ingredients that mimic youthful skin behavior, emphasizing the importance of regenerative skincare. Educational Approach: The company prioritizes educating consumers and professionals, ensuring everyone can make informed choices about their skincare routines. Sustainability Initiatives: The brand supports environmental initiatives such as planting a tree for every product sold, highlighting their eco-conscious philosophy. Notable Quotes: "I've rebranded, relaunched, New Look, new Fill, and I'll be bringing out more of those time-tested formulations as time goes on." "Whats really frustrating for me… a lot of labels lie and say they're clean, say they're non-comedogenic, which means that it won't cause breakouts." "Corrective Skin is truly a blend of it all – where you get results, it's clean, it's not going to break you out." "We want you to find what works for you. So, we're here to help you through education." "Prevention is key, and as we age, our skin ages faster with each decade."

A Map to Paradise by Susan Meissner Susanmeissnerauthor.com Amazon.com 1956, Malibu, California: Something is not right on Paradise Circle. With her name on the Hollywood blacklist and her life on hold, starlet Melanie Cole has little choice in company. There is her next-door neighbor, Elwood, but the screenwriter’s agoraphobia allows for just short chats through open windows. He’s her sole confidante, though, as she and her housekeeper, Eva, an immigrant from war-torn Europe, rarely make conversation. Then one early morning Melanie and Eva spot Elwood’s sister-in-law and caretaker, June, digging in his beloved rose garden. After that they don’t see Elwood at all anymore. Where could a man who never leaves the house possibly have gone? As they try to find out if something has happened to him, unexpected secrets are revealed among all three women, leading to an alliance that seems the only way for any of them to hold on to what they can still call their own. But it’s a fragile pact and one little spark could send it all up in smoke…About the author Susan Meissner is the USA Today bestselling author of historical fiction with more than three-quarters of a million books in print in eighteen languages. Her novels include The Nature of Fragile Things, starred review Publishers Weekly; The Last Year of the War, a Library Reads and Real Simple top pick; As Bright as Heaven, starred review from Library Journal; Secrets of a Charmed Life, a 2015 Goodreads Choice award finalist; and A Fall of Marigolds, named to Booklist’s Top Ten women’s fiction titles for 2014. She is also RITA finalist and Christy Award and Carol Award winner. A California native, she attended Point Loma Nazarene University and is also a writing workshop volunteer for Words Alive, a San Diego non-profit dedicated to helping at-risk youth foster a love for reading and writing.

From Burnout to Badass: Flip the Script on Your Work-Life Story by Dana L Cox Danalcox.com Amazon.com From Burnout to Badass: Flip The Script on Your Work-Life Story is a cultural revolution and personal transformation guide that shatters the status quo of how we approach work, life, and success. Dana L. Cox, a seasoned business consultant and dynamic leadership expert, delivers an unapologetically bold and empowering roadmap to help you reclaim your time, energy, and purpose. This isn't just another book filled with fluffy inspiration-it's a no-nonsense, action-packed call to greatness. Cox's electrifying voice resonates with powerful tough love and transparent honesty. She invites you to confront your reality, uncover your hidden blind spots, and challenge limiting beliefs holding you back. With her, it's not about excuses-it's about results. What makes this book stand out is its inclusivity. Cox draws from diverse cultural perspectives, weaving insights from Asian, African-American, Latin American, and Middle Eastern experiences to create a global guide. By honoring these unique viewpoints, Cox ensures every reader finds themselves within its pages. From Burnout to Badass positions you as the hero of your own story, equipping you with tools to reframe challenges as opportunities, realign priorities, and confidently rewrite your work-life narrative. Whether drowning in burnout or simply seeking to elevate your life to badass levels, this book is your wake-up call. Are you ready for radical, lasting transformation? This book is not just a guide-it's a partner on your journey to reclaiming your power, rediscovering your joy, and redesigning your life on your terms. No fluff, no judgment-just real talk, practical strategies, and undeniable results. Your journey from burnout to badass starts now.