Simple Questions Podcast

Episodes 27-39: Highlights features our best moments from the past 13 months with world-class experts—including NYT bestsellers, FBI agents, and Emmy-winning stop-motion animators. Episode Summary: This episode of the Simple Questions Podcast brings you the best moments from the last 13 episodes. We've condensed insightful highlights on topics like the original cowboy boot, memory competitions, and Visual Snow Syndrome. Whether you're a new listener or a loyal fan, this episode offers a perfect snapshot of what our podcast is all about. In this episode we discuss: 00:00 - Introduction 00:29 - Episode 27: Zohr Founder, Komal Choong 04:31 - Episode 28: Threadwood Award-Winning Animators, Alexis Deprey & Scott DaRos 08:25 - Episode 29: Veteran Fighter Pilot, Kurt Dittmer 12:12 - Episode 30: New York Times Bestselling Author, Susan Piver 15:50 - Episode 31: Visual Snow Initiative Co-founder, Paul Domb 20:03 - Episode 32: New York Times Bestselling Author, Erin Jeanne McDowell 22:30 - Episode 33: Retired FBI Special Agent, Donald Albracht 26:20 - Episode 34: Experienced Death Doula, Kacie Gikonyo 30:00 - Episode 35: Hyer Boots CEO, Zach Lawless 32:51 - Episode 36: Retired FBI Section Chief, Tom Nunemaker 37:26 - Episode 37: 5-time USA Memory Champion, Nelson Dellis 39:40 - Episode 38: Author and Book Coach, Jennie Nash 43:53 - Episode 39: World Orienteering Championship Competitor, Tori Borish 45:38 - Conclusion & Closing Remarks This episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here.

Episode 39: What Is Orienteering? - features World Orienteering Championship Competitor, Tori Borish, sharing her orienteering journey.Episode Summary:This episode of the Simple Questions Podcast features a discussion between Dylan Carnahan and Tori Borish, an international orienteering competitor. She has been a regular member of the US National Orienteering Team, participating in the World Cup and North American Orienteering Championships.Listen as Tori explains how orienteering works and her journey to represent our country on the world stage.In this episode we discuss:00:25 - Introducing Tori Borish02:01 - Becoming an Orienteer04:56 - The Basics06:42 - Competition Types13:14 - Markers14:21 - Land Navigation Skills18:35 - Equipment21:23 - Hobbyist to Competitor29:35 - Competition Challenges33:47 - Watching Others37:15 - Advice for New Orienteers39:26 - Learning More41:04 - ConclusionResources:Orienteering USAOrienteering BlogTori's AccoladesThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here.

Episode 38: How Are Books Published? - features Author and Book Coach Jennie Nash, who explains the intricacies of the publishing process.Episode Summary:This episode of the Simple Questions Podcast features a discussion between Dylan Carnahan and Jennie Nash, an author and book coach. Jennie has penned nine books across three genres, including "Blueprint for a Book: Build Your Novel from the Inside Out." She's not only achieved personal success but also excels in guiding others as the Founder and CEO of Author Accelerator. Her coaching prowess has helped clients secure lucrative deals, including projects like "The Chicken Sisters," a New York Times bestseller and a Reese Witherspoon Book Club pick in 2020.Listen as Jennie shares her insights, which have guided numerous authors to success.In this episode we discuss:00:25 - Introducing Jennie Nash02:19 - Being an Author is a "Thing"05:29 - Beginning to Write09:16 - Book Coaching13:11 - A Shift in Publishing23:02 - Allure of Self-Publishing32:12 - Book Launch38:38 - Finding vs. Serving an Audience40:59 - AI in Writing49:32 - Advice for New Writers52:00 - Learning More53:49 - ConclusionResources:Jennie's WebsiteAuthor AcceleratorJennie's BooksThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here.

Nelson Dellis, a 5-time USA Memory Champion and world record holder in various memory categories, shares fascinating insights into memory techniques. He discusses his journey into memory competitions and reveals innovative methods like the memory palace technique. Listeners learn how emotional connections and multisensory associations enhance recall. Nelson also addresses unique strategies for those with aphantasia and highlights the significance of achieving a 'flow state' in training. His passion for improving memory also ties into raising awareness for Alzheimer's research.

Episode 36: How was the Unabomber Investigated? - features Retired FBI Section Chief, Tom Nunemaker, who reveals details about the UNABOM investigation.Episode Summary:This episode of the Simple Questions Podcast features a discussion between Dylan Carnahan and Tom Nunemaker, who retired after serving 23 years in the FBI. He completed his career while selected for the Senior Executive Service and assigned as the Chief of the Violent Crimes Section at FBIHQ. However, in February of 1995, Tom was the headquarters supervisor for the UNABOM investigation.Listen as Tom shares his perspective on how the 17-year-long UNABOM investigation was conducted.In this episode we discuss:00:29 - Introducing Tom Nunemaker02:12 - Initial Assignment06:04 - Investigative Challenges10:55 - Case Details26:47 - Random Victims31:39 - The Feeling at the Time36:10 - Arresting Ted Kaczynski42:03 - Trial & Legal Proceedings50:20 - Applications to Future Investigations55:35 - Learning More59:17 - ConclusionResources:Hunting The American Terrorist by Terry Turchie & Kathleen PuckettThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here.

Episode 35: What’s The Story Behind The Original Cowboy Boot? - features Hyer Boots CEO, Zach Lawless, who shares his family’s legacy.Episode Summary:This episode of the Simple Questions Podcast features a discussion between Dylan Carnahan and Zach Lawless, the great-great-grandson of C.H. Hyer, renowned as the inventor of the original cowboy boot. Currently serving as the CEO of Hyer Boots, Zach Lawless carries on the legacy of his illustrious ancestor, spearheading the family business into modern times.Listen as Zach shares his family's history and the revitalization of their business.In this episode we discuss:01:42 - Introducing Zach Lawless03:46 - History of The Cowboy Boot12:52 - Lesser Known History15:27 - Beginning The Business21:45 - Current Design24:42 - Digital Age26:54 - Future Vision29:10 - Projects30:09 - Personal Importance33:06 - Supporting Hyer Boots34:07 - ConclusionResources:Store LocatorHyer Boots WebsiteThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here.

Episode 34: What Is A Death Doula? - features Experienced Death Doula, Kacie Gikonyo, discussing her role in end-of-life care.Episode Summary:This episode of the Simple Questions Podcast features a discussion between Dylan Carnahan and Kacie Gikonyo, a dedicated death doula who provides support, comfort, and guidance to individuals and their families during the end-of-life process. Kacie shares her insights into the emotional, spiritual, and practical aspects of death doula work, emphasizing the importance of creating a peaceful and dignified end-of-life experience.Listen as Kacie explains the role of a death doula and the impact this service has on those facing the end of life.In this episode we discuss:00:28 - Introducing Kacie Gikonyo01:40 - Becoming a Death Doula07:41 - Services Provided15:26 - Difficult Conversations & Emotions21:37 - Challenges Faced26:10 - Perspective on Life and Death29:10 - Resources32:53 - Supporting Others34:16 - ConclusionResources:Kacie's LinkedInKacie's WebsiteDeath Doula CollectiveThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here.

Episode 33: What’s It Like To Be An FBI Agent? - features Former Special Agent, Donald Albracht, discussing his time in the FBI.Episode Summary:This episode of the Simple Questions Podcast features a discussion between Dylan Carnahan and Donald Albracht, a distinguished former FBI Special Agent with over 28 years of experience in the FBI. Donald's expertise includes handling various federal investigations, SWAT teams, and providing tactical training. His accolades and experience in high-stakes security operations and as a tactical firearms instructor offer a deep insight into the life and responsibilities of an FBI agent.Listen as Don shares his experiences as an FBI Agent.In this episode we discuss:00:00 - Introducing Donald Albracht01:34 - The Beginning of a Career10:36 - Typical Career Progression24:40 - SWAT Team32:44 - FBI Overseas Operations42:19 - Undercover Experiences46:40 - Misconceptions1:01:02 - Advice for the Average Citizen1:03:48 - Closing Remarks1:05:50 - Conclusion and InformationResources:Don's LinkedInFirearm LessonsOther Podcast AppearanceThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here.

Episode 32: How Do You Start Baking? - features New York Times Bestselling Author, Erin Jeanne McDowell, who describes how you can start baking.Episode Summary:This episode of the Simple Questions Podcast features a discussion between Dylan Carnahan and Erin Jeanne McDowell, an accomplished baker and author of three notable books: "The Fearless Baker" (New York Times' Best Baking Book of the Year), "The Book on Pie" (New York Times Bestseller), and "Savory Baking." Beyond her written contributions, Erin hosts the award-winning series "Bake It Up a Notch" on Food 52 and serves as a Baking Coach on Netflix's "The Big Nailed It Baking Challenge."Listen as Erin shares her passion and knowledge of baking.In this episode we discuss:00:00 - Introducing Erin Jeanne McDowell01:42 - Baking Beginnings06:00 - Beginner Friendly Recipes10:14 - Unexpected Issues13:00 - Choosing Ingredients15:48 - Visual Cues19:53 - Equipment24:07 - Favorite Techniques27:40 - Baking Trends32:55 - Advice for Aspiring Bakers39:05 - Erin’s Specialty41:39 - Closing Remarks43:25 - Conclusion and InformationResources:Erin’s WebsiteThe Fearless BakerThe Book On PieSavory BakingBake It Up a Notch on Food52The Big Nailed It Baking ChallengeThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here.

Episode 31: What Is Visual Snow Syndrome? - features VSS Advocate, Paul Domb, explaining the work the Visual Snow Initiative has accomplished.Episode Summary:This episode of the Simple Questions Podcast features a discussion between Dylan Carnahan and Paul Domb, the father of Sierra Domb, a remarkable individual who spearheaded the Visual Snow Initiative, a pioneering endeavor focused on raising awareness and providing invaluable resources for those affected by Visual Snow Syndrome (VSS). His unwavering support and advocacy have played a pivotal role in propelling this initiative forward. Paul's personal journey of having his own child grapple with VSS gives a deeply personal and empathetic dimension to his commitment.Listen as Paul shares his experiences as a father of someone with VSS.In this episode we discuss:00:00 - Introducing Paul Domb01:40 - A Frightened Parent07:08 - Getting a Diagnosis11:09 - Progression of the Foundation13:37 - The Cause25:02 - Gradual or Sudden28:09 - Treatment31:03 - Lifestyle Modifications34:58 - Action to Take37:18 - Closing Remarks38:56 - Conclusion and InformationResources:Visual Snow InitiativeThis episode includes the track 'RSPN' by Blank & Kytt. The song is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. You can find more of Blank & Kytt's music here.