David McClam shares a deeply personal and moving account of his struggles over the past year, touching on themes of resilience, mental health, and the importance of community support. He reflects on a significant moment involving his son, who faced a serious mental health crisis, prompting David to reevaluate his purpose in podcasting and the impact of his voice. Throughout the episode, David emphasizes the relentless battle between good and evil in the world, asserting that truth and compassion will ultimately prevail. He also recounts a serendipitous encounter with actor Tico Wells, which reignited his passion for storytelling and reaffirmed the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. As he prepares for a return to the podcast, David expresses gratitude for the support of friends, family, and listeners, reminding everyone of the extraordinary potential within each person to make a difference.

Takeaways:

• David McClam emphasizes the importance of recognizing our worth and the impact of mental health.
• The staggering statistic of one person lost to suicide every 40 seconds highlights urgency.
• Listeners are encouraged to reach out to the suicide prevention hotline if needed.
• David shares personal stories of struggle, emphasizing the need for community support.
• The episode explores the challenges faced by individuals in the face of adversity.

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Cover Art and Logo created by Diana of Other Worldly

Sound Mixing and editing by David McClam

Intro script by Sophie Wild From Fiverr & David McClam

Intro and outro jingle by Jacqueline G. (JacquieVoice) From Fiverr

Stephen Terrell, a novelist and retired attorney, shares the gripping story of his great-uncle John Terrell, who became notorious for a murder that shocked Indiana in 1903. Terrell's book, "The Madness of John Terrell: Revenge and Insanity on Trial in the Heartland," delves into the complexities of family history and the dark legacy that can emerge from it. As Stephen recounts the intriguing details of John’s life, including his rise to wealth through oil discovery and the tragic events that led to the fatal confrontation with his son-in-law Melvin Wolf, listeners gain insight into the societal issues of the time, such as bullying and mental health struggles. The discussion also touches upon the legal proceedings that followed, highlighting the stark contrasts in public perception of John Terrell as both a respected businessman and a man driven to violence. This episode not only uncovers a captivating true crime narrative but also invites reflection on enduring social challenges that echo through history.

Get your Copy of The Madness Of John Terrell Revenge and Insanity on trial in the heartland HERE

Takeaways:

• The podcast discusses the complex history of the Terrell family, including a notorious murder case from the early 1900s.
• Stephen Terrell's book, 'The Madness of John Terrell,' explores themes of family, violence, and societal perceptions of morality.
• The trial of John Terrell revealed deep community divisions regarding his character and actions, influenced by his atheism.
• Throughout the episode, the importance of sharing stories and understanding our family histories is underscored.
• Listeners are encouraged to reach out for help if they or someone they know is struggling with suicidal thoughts.
• 
  

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Sound Mixing and editing by David McClam

Intro script by Sophie Wild From Fiverr & David McClam

Intro and outro jingle by Jacqueline G. (JacquieVoice) From Fiverr

Sharon Virts, a New York Times bestselling author, joins David McClam to discuss her latest book, "Graves of Truth," which was released just before Halloween on October 29, 2024. This atmospheric historical mystery thriller delves into a series of suspicious deaths among Baltimore's elite during the Reconstruction era, exploring themes of deceit, mental health, and the societal constraints faced by women of the time. Sharon shares her unique writing process, emphasizing the importance of character development and the balance between historical accuracy and narrative engagement. The conversation also touches on her passion for historical preservation, her love for graveyards, and the inspiration she draws from the past. Join them for an enlightening discussion that blends true crime, history, and the art of storytelling.

Takeaways:

• Sharon Virts discusses her passion for writing and how it serves as therapy.
• David McClam emphasizes the importance of mental health and resources like Dial 988.
• The historical context of Sharon's book, Grays of Truth, reflects societal issues from the 1870s.
• Sharon shares her unique connection to graveyards and how they inspire her writing.
• The podcast highlights the significance of capturing personal stories for future generations.
• Sharon's approach to character development involves deep research and understanding their backgrounds.

Get your Copy of The Grays Of Truth HERE

Chapters:

• 00:10 - Introduction to The Grays of Truth
• 09:18 - Restoration of Selma Mansion: A Labor of Love
• 17:42 - The Spirit of the House
• 21:02 - The Making of a Mystery: Unveiling the Characters
• 32:51 - Jane's Journey and Inner Demons

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Sound Mixing and editing by David McClam

Intro script by Sophie Wild From Fiverr & David McClam

Intro and outro jingle by Jacqueline G. (JacquieVoice) From Fiverr

The podcast episode delves into the profound complexities of fatherhood as David McClam engages in a heartfelt conversation with his son, DaVonte. The discussion opens with a poignant acknowledgment of mental health awareness, emphasizing the importance of recognizing one’s worth and the devastating impact of suicide. This sets a serious tone that resonates throughout the episode, as the duo navigates the challenges and triumphs of parenting across generations. DaVonte shares his personal experiences as a father, reflecting on how his upbringing shapes his parenting style today. He candidly discusses the lessons learned from his own childhood, especially the feelings of being misunderstood and the pressure to conform, which ultimately led him to make choices that placed him in difficult situations. The dialogue showcases how DaVonte’s role as a father to his three boys informs his understanding of what it means to offer love, support, and structure while also allowing for autonomy.

As the conversation progresses, the complexities of co-parenting emerge, particularly the struggles DaVonte faces in maintaining a positive relationship with his children amidst challenges with their mother. His commitment to shielding his children from negative perceptions of their mother highlights the lengths he is willing to go to protect their emotional well-being. The episode underscores the theme of communication within families, advocating for open dialogues that foster understanding and healing. David and DaVonte’s candid exchanges reflect not only their personal journey but also serve as a reminder of the universal challenges parents face, inviting listeners to reflect on their experiences and the essential bonds that define familial relationships.

Takeaways:

• DaVonte shares how becoming a father transformed his perspective on childhood experiences.
• The importance of being present in a child's early years cannot be overstated.
• Parenting is not a linear journey; each child requires a unique approach.
• Communication between parents and children is crucial for emotional development and understanding.
• DaVonte emphasizes the need for grace and understanding in the parent-child relationship.
• Childhood experiences shape our adult selves, making reflection and growth essential.

Chapters:

• 00:09 - Changing the Statistics on Suicide
• 05:21 - A Conversation on Fatherhood
• 12:25 - Navigating Parenthood and Divorce
• 21:40 - Navigating Parenting Challenges
• 29:26 - Navigating Middle School Challenges
• 37:47 - The Changing Landscape of Education
• 43:09 - The Challenges of Parenting Across Generations

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Sound Mixing and editing by David McClam

Intro script by Sophie Wild From Fiverr & David McClam

Intro and outro...

A riveting dialogue unfolds as LA Starks joins David McClam on the podcast, where she delves into the intricate worlds of energy politics and thrilling fiction. The episode begins with a heartfelt message from the host, addressing mental health awareness, which sets a compassionate tone for the conversation. Starks, known for her gripping thrillers, shares her journey from engineering to writing, highlighting her academic achievements and the unique perspective they lend to her storytelling. The discussion pivots to her latest work, 'Winner's Curse', which follows the formidable Lynn Dayton as she navigates a treacherous landscape of corporate sabotage and high-stakes energy dealings.

Starks elaborates on the character of Lynn Dayton, portraying her as a strong, multifaceted woman fighting against the odds in a male-dominated industry. This character is not just a representation of strength but also embodies the complexities of navigating power dynamics within corporate environments. The conversation further explores the thematic connections between Starks's fictional narratives and current global energy issues, showcasing how her real-world expertise informs her writing. The episode emphasizes the importance of representation in literature, especially strong female characters who challenge societal norms and expectations.

As the dialogue progresses, listeners are introduced to the broader implications of energy politics, with Starks drawing on her professional experiences to illustrate the challenges and triumphs faced by women in the field. The episode culminates in a compelling invitation for listeners to engage with 'Winner's Curse', framing it as not only an entertaining read but also a reflection of the pressing issues facing the energy sector today. McClam’s closing remarks reinforce the significance of storytelling in understanding complex societal issues, encouraging an appreciation for the narratives that shape our world.

Takeaways:

• The podcast emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness and encourages listeners to reach out for help.
• Lynn Dayton, the protagonist in LA Starks's book, embodies a strong female character in a male-dominated industry.
• The energy sector is depicted as high-stakes, providing a compelling backdrop for thrillers.
• LA Starks combines her engineering background with her passion for writing to create engaging thrillers.
• The conversation highlights how current political issues around energy are reflected in Starks's writing.
• Listeners are reminded of the significance of supporting authors by purchasing and reading their works.

Get your Copy of Winners Cures HERE

Chapters:

• 00:00 - Introduction to the Podcast
• 00:02 - Awareness and Support for Mental Health
• 00:20 - Welcome to True Crime Authors and Extraordinary People
• 00:39 - Meet the Host, David McClam
• 01:49 - Introducing LA Starks, Author and Engineer
• 06:55 - The Journey of Lynn Dayton: A Strong Protagonist
• 04:19 - Insights on the Energy Industry from LA Starks
• 04:46 - Exploring the Plot of Winner's Curse
• 05:47 - The Politics of Energy in Today's World
• 16:42 - LA Starks' Personal Experience in the Energy Field
• 26:23 - The Impact of the Pandemic on Energy and Environment
• 31:37 - Conclusion and Final...

What happens when your personal trials become public battles? We're diving deep into the drama that unfolded over the summer, involving alleged harassment and shocking legal disputes. Names like Anthony Christopher and Javier Leiva have become part of a narrative filled with accusations and attempts to undermine my work. Drawing strength from adversity, I liken this struggle to the "Eminem effect," where challenges only serve to strengthen the show's foundation. I also share insights into the evolving dynamics of my personal life and work, including the role of cutting-edge technology like the iPhone 15 in shaping my upcoming book on podcasting. Despite the chaos, rest assured I'm back, invigorated, and ready to roll out new and thrilling content.

As we look towards the political horizon, the significance of the vice presidency and the power of voting come under the spotlight. This episode underscores the crucial role of the vice president, highlighting the importance of being informed and strategic as voters. The influence of the black vote, alongside key issues like reproductive rights and education, forms the backbone of our political discourse. Engaging with our true crime community on social media, we invite you to be part of the conversation, embracing the creativity behind our show—from Dianna's stunning artwork to David McClam’s expert sound editing. With atmospheric music by New Alchemist setting the tone, we promise more captivating narratives and discussions in the episodes to come.

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Cover Art and Logo created by Diana of Other Worldly

Sound Mixing and editing by David McClam

Intro script by Sophie Wild From Fiverr & David McClam

Intro and outro jingle by Jacqueline G. (JacquieVoice) From Fiverr

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Cover Art and Logo created by Diana of Other Worldly

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Intro script by Sophie Wild From Fiverr & David McClam

Intro and outro jingle by Jacqueline G. (JacquieVoice) From...

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Cover Art and Logo created by Diana of Other Worldly

Sound Mixing and editing by David McClam

Intro script by Sophie Wild From Fiverr & David McClam

Intro and outro jingle by Jacqueline G. (JacquieVoice) From Fiverr