I’m Jon, and I love nothing more than listening to someone with an interesting or unusual job talk about the ins and outs of that job. So I created a weekly podcast that features interviews with people from all across the employment spectrum. You’ve likely heard the figure of speech “Jack of all trades” referring to someone who is versatile and adaptable to a wide variety of tasks. That’s what I hope to become by interviewing people with as many different jobs as possible. Except, I’m Jon, not Jack. Welcome to Jon of All Trades. New episodes post every Wednesday.
Ep. 357: Sun Roesslein – President of the Sports Field Management Association
Sun Roesslein is the newly appointed President of the Sports Field Management Association (SFMA), based right here in the Denver metropolitan area. SFMA is a non-profit dedicated to empowering and providing resources for the professionals who oversee sports fields at pro stadiums, universities, K-12 schools, and local parks and recreation facilities. These are the highly-trained individuals who ensure that...
12/6/2023 • 48 minutes, 19 seconds
Ep. 356: Jon Eks Solo – Let’s Catch Up!
Hi there! It’s been a hot minute since I’ve been on this page. Where have I been? I’m glad you asked! I left one show I was doing back in July and decided I needed some anonymous downtime. I had some surgery. I’ve been focusing on client work. Mostly I’ve just enjoyed laying low and...
11/15/2023 • 21 minutes, 17 seconds
Ep. 355: Douglas Derrick – 100 Mile Race Finisher
Douglas Derrick is one of the coolest guys I know. He’s the inspiration for Negroni Week, which just happened. He has a Portlandia sketch that parodies his mixology chops from his time as a bartender. He’s a champion angler. Above all that, he’s just really fun to hang out with when I go to Portland...
10/4/2023 • 1 hour, 14 minutes, 28 seconds
Ep. 354: Ed Gazvoda – Creator of Fireless Cremation
After doing this show for 9+ years, I thought I’d pretty much covered it all. Buddy, the fact that this show can still surprise me is a gift. Ed Gazvoda is the creator of Fireless Cremation, which is an alternative to the traditional, petrochemical cremation we’re probably all more familiar with. So, how is it...
9/7/2023 • 49 minutes, 47 seconds
Ep. 353: Brenden Kumarasamy – Creator of MasterTalk
Brenden Kumarasamy is the Creator of MasterTalk, where he has speaking engagements, leads workshops, and offers individual coaching. Here he is in his own words from his YouTube channel: After coaching many business students on how to give amazing presentations for 2 years, I quickly realized that public speaking is a very difficult subject to...
8/10/2023 • 53 minutes, 28 seconds
Ep. 352: Josh Martin – Former NFL Player, Smoothie King Entrepreneur
Josh Martin played seven seasons in the NFL and got an Ivy League education at Columbia University. He’s returned to Denver to open a Smoothie King franchise in the Central Park neighborhood. He joins me to discuss his NFL career as we discuss a multitude of facets of it. What was his first day like?...
7/26/2023 • 43 minutes, 49 seconds
Ep. 351: Stacey Dee, Lead Singer of Bad Cop / Bad Cop
Stacey Dee (the one on the right in that picture, seen with her bandmate Linh Le), is the lead singer of Bad Cop / Bad Cop, one of my favorite bands. She joins me in advance of the Punk Rock Saves Lives Fest coming up on Saturday, July 22 at Ratio Beerworks in Denver. We...
7/19/2023 • 52 minutes, 26 seconds
Ep. 350: Adrienne Ash, Lead Singer of Plasma Canvas
Plasma Canvas is the self-professed “LOUDEST, GAYEST BAND IN THE WORLD.” And I can tell you personally that their new album DUSK is fantastic. I welcome their lead singer Adrienne Ash to the show to discuss it, what was in store for Plasma Canvas before the pandemic hit (it’s crushing), how existing as a lead...
6/7/2023 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 43 seconds
Ep. 349: Ryan Nanni – Professional Podcast Guest
I only know Ryan Nanni from Twitter – he’s @celebrityhottub – and I don’t really know him. I only know that his tweets consistently make me laugh and he’s someone I’m happy exists in my feed. So one night I happened to check out his full profile, and found this pinned tweet: Pay dirt! I...
5/24/2023 • 59 minutes, 40 seconds
Ep. 348: Peaches ‘n Diesel – Instagram Famous
I work out at the same time and same gym as Peaches ‘n Diesel. Of course, that’s not how I know her, but one of our instructors (thank you, Jackie!) hipped me to her Instagram page. I was instantly taken with it. I then found out her dog, Jolene the Dolly Doodle was even more...
4/26/2023 • 52 minutes, 15 seconds
Ep. 347: Drew Francis – Attempting to Break Colorado 14er Record
According to Drew Francis, “The state of Colorado has 58 peaks that rise over 14,000 ft in elevation. The current record to climb all the peaks is 9 days, 21 hours, and 51 minutes. My goal for the summer of 2023 is to break this speed record, climbing more than 150,000 ft of elevation, 300...
4/5/2023 • 50 minutes, 6 seconds
Ep. 346: Vic Lombardi – 9 Year Anniversary Spectacular!
The Jon of All Trades Podcast is officially 9 years old! If you had asked me when I started if I would still be doing this show 9 years later, I don’t think I would have said yes. But the truth is, while this show didn’t achieve the heights I wished for it when I...
3/15/2023 • 54 minutes, 52 seconds
Ep. 345: Kip Wilson – Stoned Appetit
Kip Wilson is one of the creators and co-hosts of Stoned Appetit, a podcast where he and his co-host learn something new every episode, but “cover food, booze, weed and live music.” Sounds like a damn good time! He’s also my compadre at Mile High Life where he blogs and makes video content, and I,...
2/8/2023 • 55 minutes, 18 seconds
Ep. 344: Tom Breihan, Author of The Number Ones
When Tom Breihan was my guest two and a half years ago on Episode 253, we talked primarily about movies and how PR people can stand out in an endless swirling sea of crappy pitches. It was an incredibly fun chat, and although I had been a weekly reader of his prior to that, after...
1/25/2023 • 50 minutes, 41 seconds
Ep. 343: Joe Vostrejs – Partner and Principal at City Street Investors
Joe Vostrejs is Principal, Partner, and Founder of City Street Investors, whose “custom crafting philosophy” means the firm creates projects that synchronize the needs and desires of the community with investment in under-appreciated assets. It also means, the places they create, in particular the restaurants in their portfolio, are unique, tailored toward the local community,...
12/28/2022 • 52 minutes, 41 seconds
Ep. 342: Solo – The Joy Is In The Grind
On this solo episode of the show, I talk about how true creative freedom and fulfillment comes from the grind. It’s counterintuitive, but we all have hours to fill in a day. If we fill those hours with work that we find meaningful, challenging, and enjoyable, our lives are thereby much more fulfilling. This is...
11/30/2022 • 29 minutes, 18 seconds
Ep. 341: Palmer Parent Roundtable About Proposed DPS Closures
On October 25, we, the parents of students at Palmer Elementary, received an email titled “Declining Enrollment.” I imagine parents of students at the other 9 schools proposed for closure or consolidation received a similar email on Denver Public Schools (DPS) letterhead. The DPS Board has been tasked with voting on this plan November 17....
11/9/2022 • 47 minutes, 11 seconds
Ep. 340: Gogo Germaine – Author of “Glory Guitars: Memoir of a ’90s Teenage Punk Rock Grrrl”
I don’t remember how I came upon Gogo Germaine’s book the first time, but as soon as I became aware of Glory Guitars: Memoir of a ’90s Teenage Punk Rock Grrrl I knew I had to read it. So I ordered my copy, devoured it, and then reached out to Gogo directly. We sat down...
11/9/2022 • 54 minutes, 31 seconds
Ep. 339: Julian Rubinstein, Director of The Holly
Julian Rubinstein is the author of The Holly: Five Bullets, One Gun, and the Struggle to Save an American Neighborhood, a book that has earned widespread acclaim since its release. Here’s the synopsis from the website. In The Holly, the award-winning journalist Julian Rubinstein, who grew up in Denver, reconstructs the events leading up to the...
11/2/2022 • 36 minutes, 8 seconds
Ep. 338: Bruce Lambert – Owner of Dog House Denver
Bruce Lambert is the owner of Dog House Denver, Denver’s premiere doggy day care. From their website: “At Doghouse Denver your dog will enjoy constant care and supervision from our loving, skilled, and knowledgeable handlers. Our team is passionate and experienced in interacting and engaging with dogs of all temperaments. Dog House Denver is not...
10/12/2022 • 37 minutes, 1 second
Ep. 337: Kersti Bryan – Director of Egg Party, Actor, Longtime Friend
Kersti Bryan has appeared on this show before. In fact, it was exactly 300 episodes ago when she was my guest on Episode 37. Weird, right? She’s back again and this time we talk about her recent role on Tales of the Walking Dead largely opposite Terry Crews and her short film Egg Party, which...
9/28/2022 • 57 minutes, 29 seconds
Ep. 336: David Roth – Editor at Defector
David Roth is an Editor at Defector.com, one of my absolute favorite websites (and, by their own tagline “The last good website), and he’s in that photo showing me a baseball card for Lastings Milledge, who is a definitely a guy some of us remember. David is a superlative writer and while the bulk of...
9/21/2022 • 1 hour, 15 minutes, 54 seconds
Ep. 335: Jon Eks Solo – An Ode to Summer
Summer is my favorite season by far. And it’s this time of year that I start to feel a tinge of melancholy because I know this magical time is ending, which also happens to coincide with my birthday. Why do I love summer so much? I answer that question from as many angles as possible...
8/17/2022 • 30 minutes, 21 seconds
Ep. 334: Kyle Krueger – Co-Founder of Kru Creative
Kyle Krueger is the Co-Founder of Kru Creative. When you visit their website, you’re greeted with this: “CREATIVITY IS FUNDAMENTAL TO HUMAN CONNECTION. It is not about standing out anymore, it is about connecting. We curiously explore your problems and why they matter. And deliver impactful graphic and motion design solutions.” I like that, and it’s...
8/3/2022 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 39 seconds
Ep. 333: Ryan Estes – Co-Founder of Kitcaster
Ryan Estes is the Co-Founder of Kitcaster, the world’s premier podcast booking agency. He’s also a podcasting OG whose podcasting origin story goes back to 2008, so he’s been through virtually this entire industry’s evolution. More importantly, Ryan is someone I consider both a professional friend and role model. I can go months or even...
7/20/2022 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 8 seconds
Ep. 332: Stacey and Josh Davis – Co-Founders of JAD’s Mile High Smoke
Stacey and Josh Davis (pictured) are the Co-Founders of JAD’s Mile High Smoke, the first Cannabis Bar in Colorado. What is that? It’s just like any other bar, except you order cannabis products instead of alcohol products. Cool, right? Josh and Stacey certainly think so as they’re the very first ones to establish such a...
7/13/2022 • 53 minutes, 25 seconds
Ep. 331: Conor McGahey – Radio Broadcaster for the Colorado Avalanche
Conor McGahey is the radio voice of the 2022 Stanley Cup Champion Colorado Avalanche for Altitude Sports. I talked to him the day after the celebratory parade that brought 500,000 people into the city (and no arrests!) about this insane Cup run, his career, and our mutual friend Reed Saunders (who is directly responsible for...
7/6/2022 • 29 minutes, 29 seconds
Ep. 330: Jon Eks Solo – 40 Is a Mindf*ck
I’m not going to bore you with a lot of text here. I’ve been 40 years old for about 10 months and it’s a total mindfuck for two reasons: Ideally you have the freedom to be who you most want to be and the resources to achieve that; You are out of excuses for your...
6/15/2022 • 35 minutes, 2 seconds
Ep. 329: Justin Duran – Lead Singer of The Frickashinas and Center Scenes
I first met Justin Duran in like 2002 when he was fronting a band called Dysarranged. He was a guest on my college radio show in preparation for a big, all-day punk rock festival one of my colleagues was putting on. We hit it off immediately. When Dysarranged broke up, Justin (and his co-lead Brian,...
6/8/2022 • 49 minutes, 7 seconds
Ep. 328: Megan Carvajal – Executive Director of The Blue Bench
Megan Carvajal is the Executive Director of The Blue Bench, the Denver Metro Area’s comprehensive sexual assault prevention and support center, and an organization to which I have given money for many years. If you’d like to give money yourself, you can do that through this link. On this week’s episode, we discuss how Megan...
5/25/2022 • 57 minutes, 35 seconds
Ep. 327: Joe O’Dea – Republican Candidate for U.S. Senate from Colorado
Joe O’Dea is currently running for a seat in the United States Senate representing Colorado and seeking to defeat incumbent Democrat Michael Bennet. Here are the first few sentences from his “Meet Joe” page on his campaign website: Joe’s a political outsider, and a conservative. Joe O’Dea is the CEO of a Colorado construction company...
5/18/2022 • 39 minutes, 7 seconds
Ep. 326: Kyle Ryan – Creator of Band Name Bureau
If you were a fan of The AV Club, as I was and largely still am, then it’s safe to assume one of the features you looked forward to at the end of each year was The Year in Band Names. The creator of that delightful and staggering annual piece of work was Kyle Ryan....
5/11/2022 • 55 minutes, 48 seconds
Ep. 325: Julio Trujillo – Co-Founder of Colorado Trivia League
Julio Trujillo made his first appearance on this show more than 7 years ago on Episode 42 as part of pub quiz juggernaut team The Slumpbusters. Since then, he’s gone on to be a runner-up on Jeopardy! and a winner of the ABC game show The Chase, while still kicking ass at pub quiz all...
5/4/2022 • 50 minutes, 8 seconds
Ep. 324: Sean Rueter – Wrestling Blogger and Manager of Cageside Seats
Sean Rueter is a blogger and Manger of CagesideSeats.com, a daily stop (multiple times, actually) for me on the internet, and one of the best professional wrestling blog sites around. I’ve read Cageside Seats for years, and I can’t believe it took me this long to consider inviting one of their writers onto my show....
3/30/2022 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 14 seconds
Ep. 323: The 8th Anniversary Mailbag Spectacular!
I’d say it’s hard to believe it’s been 8 years since I started this show, but that’s a complete lie. I think about this show constantly, and anyone who’s ever produced content regularly for any extended length of time knows it lives in your head to whatever degree pretty much all the time. That photo...
3/16/2022 • 45 minutes, 55 seconds
Ep. 322: Ed Vincent – CEO of FestivalPass
Ed Vincent is CEO of FestivalPass, a new startup that offers subscriptions to live event ticketing. Here’s how they describe themselves on their website: festival Pass believes you deserve transparency. We will never add fees at the end of your purchase. Price you see is the price you pay. No added fees AND up to...
3/2/2022 • 36 minutes, 18 seconds
Ep. 321: Dr. Soum Rakshit – Founder and CEO of MysteryVibe
Dr. Soum Rakshit is the Co-Founder & CEO of award-winning sexual health company, MysteryVibe. Their mission is to make sexual health accessible to all – across all ages, genders & orientations. In his role as CEO of MysteryVibe, he focuses on pushing the boundaries on R&D, customer experience and supporting their long-term goal of making...
2/23/2022 • 54 minutes, 31 seconds
Ep. 320: Jenny Cavnar – Broadcaster for the Colorado Rockies
Jenny Cavnar first caught my attention when I watched her do “Sportsfest” with my friend Chris Dittmer on CTV at Colorado State University. She has since gone on to a professional career in sports broadcasting that’s taken her to Los Angeles, Flint, MI, San Diego, and back home to Denver where she’s currently a broadcaster...
2/16/2022 • 46 minutes, 36 seconds
Ep. 319: Andrew Novick Returns!
When I interviewed Andrew Novick a little more than 4 years ago, I described him this way: Andrew Novick is the director of JonBenet’s Tricycle, a documentary premiering at Denver Film Festival 40. Intrigued? I certainly was. Here’s the synopsis: “Andrew Novick – a Mile-High legend as the man who collects almost everything – forges all sorts of...
2/9/2022 • 1 hour, 15 minutes, 39 seconds
Ep. 318: Matt Whitesides – Frontman for No Bueno!
The very first time I saw Matt Whitesides, I couldn’t take my eyes off of him. It was the middle of the afternoon, my girlfriend, my buddy and myself were in the crowd at the Bluebird Theatre waiting to see Yellowcard and Home Grown, he was fronting local punk band Step Short, and I was...
1/26/2022 • 53 minutes, 19 seconds
Ep. 317: Laurie Gilbertson – CEO of Tribeca Blue Consulting
Laurie Gilbertson is a former New York City sex crimes, organized crime, and homicide prosecutor, television legal analyst, educator, and entrepreneur. As the owner of Tribeca Blue Consulting, she helps professionals communicate with clarity, confidence, and creativity in their public speaking, presentations, trial work, and media appearances. On this week’s show Laurie and I talk...
1/19/2022 • 56 minutes, 57 seconds
Ep. 316: Jon Eks Solo – Death to Snark
As we roll into 2022 in earnest, the cultural mood seems to be pure shit. Beloved celebrities are dying, a huge chunk of our state turned into a damn tinderbox, grocery workers are on strike, and this godforsaken virus continues to hang around like a party guest that just won’t fucking leave even though we’ve...
1/12/2022 • 27 minutes, 22 seconds
SPECIAL EP: Karate Kid III Commentary featuring Brad Haag of Reel Nerds Podcast
Greetings fans of the Jon of All Trades Podcast, Reel Nerds Podcast, incredibly weird tone deaf second sequels to beloved classics, villainous ponytails, and whatever other signifiers brought you to this bizarre ass shit we’re here to give you! Welcome all! For years, Brad Haag (two-time guest on this show here and here) and I...
12/27/2021 • 2 hours, 2 minutes, 24 seconds
Ep. 314: Brian Raftery – Movie and Pop Culture Journalist and Author
Brian Raftery is the author of Best. Movie. Year. Ever. How 1999 Blew Up the Big Screen, which was one of my absolute favorite reads from this year. Here’s a couple of snippets from the description from Brian’s website: In 1999, Hollywood as we know it exploded: Fight Club. The Matrix. Office Space. Election. The Blair...
12/22/2021 • 59 minutes, 40 seconds
Ep. 313: Jeff Kass – Author, Private Investigator, Former Journalist
Jeff Kass is a former journalist at the Rocky Mountain News and other outlets, wrote the definitive book about the Columbine tragedy, and is now a private investigator and head of Kass Research Group. I was introduced to him by my friend and guest on Episode 306 Jonathan Stine. On this week’s show we discuss...
12/15/2021 • 45 minutes, 23 seconds
Ep. 312: Molly Smith – Professional Copywriter, Host of “Did That Age Well?”
Molly Smith is the Creator and Host of Did That Age Well? a show I was privileged enough to guest on a few short weeks ago talking about the hilariously droll 1999 comedy Office Space. I was introduced to Molly by my good friends at Discussion Combustion and it was during my delightful chat with...
12/8/2021 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 42 seconds
Ep. 311: Kaycee Heid – Registered Endocrinology Nurse, Former Punk Show Co-Host
Kaycee Heid is one of my best friends. I met her when I was 12, and our paths have crisscrossed ever since. We were in our middle school’s improv club together, we stayed pals throughout high school, we got into punk and ska music at the same time, we co-hosted The Bi-Polar Show on KCSU...
12/1/2021 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 25 seconds
Ep. 310: Pete White and Brandon Kramer from The First Step
Brandon Kramer (pictured center) is the Director of, and Pete White is a participant in, The First Step, a documentary that follows CNN correspondent/progressive Van Jones, as he controversially crosses party lines to fight for bipartisan support for criminal justice reform and a more humane response to the addiction crisis during a divisive administration. The film...
11/17/2021 • 1 hour, 6 minutes, 55 seconds
Ep. 309: Elias Plagianos – Creator of Hudson Falls, Champion of Independent TV
My coverage of Denver Film Festival 44 kicks off with Elias Plagianos, Creator of Hudson Falls, and a champion of Independent Television. What is Hudson Falls? Here’s the pitch from their website: The secrets of a small upstate town that revolve around an eccentric scientist (William Sadler) begin to unravel when a private eye from...
11/10/2021 • 53 minutes, 37 seconds
Ep. 308: Andy Thomas – Musician, Deputy Director of Levitt Pavilion
Andy Thomas is Deputy Director of Levitt Pavilion Denver, a non-profit music venue established with the purpose of building community through music. Levitt Pavilion Denver operates on a mission to bridge cultural gaps and to find ways to erase divisions and embrace differences in our community. Andy has been playing music professionally since 2003, and...
10/27/2021 • 1 hour, 10 minutes, 14 seconds
Ep. 307: Zach Eastman – Podcaster, Filmmaker, Old Time Hollywood Enthusiast
Zach Eastman is my good buddy. Chief among the reasons he’s a good buddy of mine is that he’s just about the only person I’ve ever known (besides my own father) who can talk about W.C. Fields for three hours with me. Which we did on his show! You can find that right here. Zach...
10/20/2021 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 38 seconds
Ep. 306: Jonathan Stine – Managing Partner at The Paul Wilkinson Law Firm
Jonathan Stine is someone I met because our kids became friends in preschool. Turned out we had a lot in common, and the two of us and our two wives hit it off pretty much immediately. When we’d have parties, he’d ask my friends weird questions like, “Which insurance company do you have?” For the...
10/13/2021 • 56 minutes, 38 seconds
Ep. 305: Andrew Orvedahl – Comedian, TV Star, Game Designer
Andrew Orvedahl is the first comedian I was ever close to getting on the show. Seven and a half years ago after I interviewed Brandi Shigley, she asked me if I was interested in interviewing Andrew Overdahl. Of course! was my reply. She called him, left him a voicemail, and then nothing materialized. We were...
10/6/2021 • 59 minutes, 43 seconds
Ep. 304: Jon Eks Solo and in a Creative Funk
This show has grinded to a halt. Literally, I’m having a hard time generating any momentum with potential guests, my writing process is laborious and tortured, and while I have plenty of TIME, the ideas simply ain’t coming. So, this week is an attempted exorcism. I turned on the mics before I could mentally set...
9/22/2021 • 26 minutes, 23 seconds
Ep. 303: Dana Shierstone – Chemical Engineer, Geochemist, Cannabis Entrepreneur
I reconnected with Dana Shierstone at my 21st high school reunion and I’m glad I did because this is a conversation with a delightful surprise around every corner. When Dana and I started talking, I knew she worked in the cannabis space, but I had no idea she had a background as chemical engineer for...
9/9/2021 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 18 seconds
Ep. 302: Adam Salzman – Founder and CEO of AdventureEXP
Adam Salzman is the Founder and CEO of AdventureEXP, a company that offers destination work experiences customizable to an individual’s life and career goals. Here’s a bit about their programs from their website: At AdventureEXP, we believe in the power of meaningful travel. We believe in individual potential and how it is empowered when you...
9/2/2021 • 56 minutes, 3 seconds
Ep. 301: Peter Moore – Attorney at Robinson, Waters & O’Dorisio
Peter Moore is someone I respect, enjoy, and deeply admire. I worked with him on what was undoubtedly my favorite client of all-time, Vital for Colorado, and I produced more than 70 hours of radio content with him. Peter not only has an uncanny work ethic, but a sharp sense of humor and the ability...
8/18/2021 • 54 minutes, 22 seconds
Ep. 300: Jon Eks Solo – Celebrating a (Quasi) Milestone
Since we’re sort of at a milestone, I thought it a good time to pause and reflect on where we are and where we’ve been. In truth, this is my 351st episode which doesn’t usually warrant any kind of notable extra action. But since we’re at 300 in terms of the ones I’ve numbered, let’s...
8/11/2021 • 36 minutes, 50 seconds
Ep. 299: Ashley Garrison – Co-Owner of The Hop Handcrafted Ice Cream
Ashley Garrison is one of my absolute favorite people on this planet. We became pals when I lived in The Woodlands, TX for my junior year of high school through a love of punk and ska music. We would go to shows, drive around listening to our music way too loud like all bored high...
8/4/2021 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 43 seconds
Ep. 298: Courtney Brewer – Huntington’s Disease Advocate
Courtney Brewer is a fellow alumnus from my same class and high school. As our reunion approached, we reconnected and I’m so happy we did because I feel privileged to get to bring this show to you. Instead of talking about Courtney’s career journey – which, admittedly, we do a very little bit – we...
7/14/2021 • 43 minutes, 38 seconds
Ep. 297: Carson Bartsch – A Perfect Line Painting and One of My Best Friends
Carson Bartsch is Head Honcho at A Perfect Line Painting, which provides headache-free painting services in the Denver, CO area. They’ve been in business for more than three years and their crew has over a decade of experience under their belts. They’re masters in their trade and have all of the resources needed to paint...
7/8/2021 • 1 hour, 57 seconds
Ep. 296: Michael Trundle (aka Boyhollow) – Creator of Lipgloss
Michael Trundle and two others created Lipgloss 20 years ago. He’s still there getting everyone to dance, and it’s still one of the absolute best parties in Denver. Here’s their description from the website: Lipgloss is the USA’s longest running indie dance party and takes place every Friday night at Milk Bar in Denver, CO....
6/30/2021 • 59 minutes, 41 seconds
Ep. 295: Tyler Marshall – Global Entrepreneur
Tyler Marshall is a fellow classmate of mine, and he’s had a remarkable journey since we parted ways in high school. Here’s a bit about him: Tyler is Founder & CEO of EYC Labs, which engineers highly innovative solutions which combine progressive & sustainable agriculture practices, with bleeding edge IoT- Internet of Things technologies for...
6/23/2021 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 4 seconds
Ep. 294: Clint Latham – Founder of Lucca Veterinary Data Security
Clint (or CJ, as I know him) Latham returns to the podcast for a second almost exactly 3 years after his first appearance on Episode 178. This time we’re talking about something brand new – Lucca Veterinary Data Security! Here’s a little bit about Lucca from their website: Clint’s goal is to help veterinarians realize...
6/16/2021 • 59 minutes, 13 seconds
Ep. 293: Jackie Fouchia – Oh, She Healthy
What’s the first thing Jackie Fouchia might like you to think after looking at or talking to her? Oh, she healthy. That just so happens to be the name of her health coaching business, which you can find at her website. What will you learn when you work with Jackie? In her own words: You’ll...
6/9/2021 • 59 minutes, 33 seconds
Ep. 292: Damien Zouaoui and Jessica French – Co-Founders of The Beer Spa
Jessica French and Damien Zouaoui are the husband and wife team who created The Beer Spa, and seem to have given their lives over to it entirely based on their incredible dedication to getting it off the ground and ensuring everyone has an optimal experience. What is The Beer Spa? Here’s how they describe it...
6/2/2021 • 53 minutes, 16 seconds
Ep. 291: Peyton Garcia – Newsletter Editor at City Cast Denver
Peyton Garcia is the Newsletter Editor of City Cast Denver, one of my new favorite things in this city I love. What is City Cast Denver? I’ll let their own words explain it: City Cast Denver is Denver’s first daily news podcast, celebrating and challenging the city’s news breakers and culture makers; activists and artists; neighbors and...
5/19/2021 • 53 minutes, 18 seconds
Ep. 290: Crystal Egli and Parker McMullen Bushman – Co-Founders of Inclusive Journeys
Crystal Egli and Parker McMullen Bushman are the women behind Inclusive Journeys and the Digital Green Book Project. From their website, here’s a bit more about Inclusive Journeys and the Digital Green Book: Inclusive Journeys is a tech company founded by two Black women with a mission to create data-driven, economic incentives for businesses to...
5/12/2021 • 49 minutes, 40 seconds
Ep. 289: Solo Episode – Mailbag, Conspiracies & Competition
It’s been a hot second since last we did a Mailbag episode, so I figured it was time for one. And I was wrong! I only got one question! Usually I get a nice deluge of them, but apparently you’re all busy living your lives, and I don’t begrudge you that. Hell, I’m vaccinated, the...
5/5/2021 • 31 minutes, 55 seconds
Ep. 288: Rachel and Natasha Pepperl of the Just As Special Podcast
Rachel and Natasha Pepperl are the co-founders of Just As Special, a podcast that shares insights and learnings about foster care from a diverse perspective. In their own words, here’s how Natasha and Rachel describe it: When it comes to foster care, many stories aren’t being told. It’s not very often that we get to...
4/28/2021 • 54 minutes, 8 seconds
Ep. 287: Shawn Marek Returns – WWE Podcast Engineer
Shawn Marek was on this show in late 2018 back when he was a Producer for PodcastOne. At the time, we were both huge professional wrestling dweebs and I thought it was boss that he produced Stone Cold Steve Austin’s Podcast. Well, here we are two and a half years later and Shawn works for...
4/21/2021 • 52 minutes, 13 seconds
Ep. 286: Terrell Lamont – Multi-hyphenate Artist
Terrell Lamont is a multi-hyphenate artist. What does that mean? It means he’s a rapper-producer-filmmaker-cinematograhper-writer whose drive frequently gets him up at 4 o’clock in the morning to relentlessly pursue his creative passions. I was directed his way by Katie Jenkins at Tyler, The Creative Publicity because Terrell recently dropped two new singles, which you...
4/14/2021 • 50 minutes, 49 seconds
Ep. 285: Jason Taylor – Best Friend, Writing Partner, Muse (7-Year Anniversary)
To mark the occasion of the show’s 7-year anniversary, I decided to coax my best friend, my writing partner, and my greatest muse, Jason Taylor onto the show. He’s private by nature and doesn’t say a lot, but he’s my favorite person to collaborate with creatively and someone who makes me laugh harder than just...
3/24/2021 • 1 hour, 8 minutes, 8 seconds
Ep. 284: Felicia Hernandez – Head Coach at Orangetheory Fitness Lowry
Felicia Hernandez is Head Coach at Orangetheory Fitness Lowry, and she’s also the very first person I talked to when I arrived for my first session back in November 2020. Her energy and her positive attitude were infectious, and the worked out kicked my ass in a way I hadn’t experienced in probably 20 years....
Michele Borba, Ed.D. is an internationally renowned educator, award-winning author, and parenting child expert recognized for her solution-based strategies to strengthen children’s character, resilience, and reduce peer cruelty. A sought-after motivational speaker, she has spoken in 19 countries and five continents, and served as a consultant to hundreds of schools and corporations. Clients include Sesame Street,...
3/10/2021 • 44 minutes, 47 seconds
Ep. 282: Susie Wargin – Realtor, Radio and TV Personality
Susie Wargin is someone I’ve been listening to since I was 16 years old when I first heard her doing middays on KBPI. She hooked me. She was my favorite DJ, and she was a definite bright spot as I slogged through some shitty jobs during the summers. After going to college (and harboring a...
This episode debuts on February 24, 2021. As of that date, roughly 65 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered in the United States, with an average of 1.28 million doses administered every day. There are those with fears and concerns about the vaccine, some of them totally justified and normal, some that...
2/24/2021 • 57 minutes, 52 seconds
Ep. 280: Tammy from Spirit Forest
Tammy is the curator of Spirit Forest. She’s a vlogger making videos about the outdoors. Here’s the description from her YouTube page: Building a cabin on my own land and teach my daughters survival skills, camping techniques, building fundamentals, and respect for outdoor life and adventures. I am an active backpacker and have had training...
2/10/2021 • 49 minutes, 23 seconds
Ep. 279: Josh Penry on the Future of the Republican Party
Josh Penry is a former state legislator, former State Senate Minority Leader, former candidate for Colorado Governor, and currently Principal at 76 Group, an award-winning public affairs group. Here’s what they do (taken from their website): Caught in a complex public policy battle or public relations dispute? Need compelling advertising that cuts through clutter? Need 500,000 signatures...
2/3/2021 • 53 minutes, 31 seconds
Ep. 278: Chris DeMakes of Less Than Jake
Dude, it’s Chris DeMakes! He’s the co-lead singer and guitarist for Less Than Jake! He’s host of the wildly entertaining podcast Chris DeMakes a Podcast. He’ll write you a custom song or do video consultations for you and your band at ChrisDeMakes.com. He ’s got a new book called Blast From the Past. If you’re here,...
1/27/2021 • 53 minutes, 19 seconds
Ep. 277: Solo Episode – Cautious Optimism
I recorded this episode on the afternoon of January 20, 2021. I am cautiously optimistic about the coming year and the change in federal leadership. I recorded my unscripted thoughts stream-of-consciousness style for 25 minutes or so. Here’s what came out about the most recent former President, our new President, our new Vice President, and...
1/21/2021 • 26 minutes, 1 second
Ep. 276: Tiffany Charles – Chief Growth Officer of Entrepreneur Aligned
Tiffany Charles is the Chief Growth Officer of Entrepreneur Aligned, a wealth management firm specifically for entrepreneurs. From their website: Our business solely focuses on the mindset and journey of entrepreneurship, so our clients can ensure that their business has our full knowledge and attention. We arrive every day inspired to make a long-lasting impact....
1/13/2021 • 58 minutes, 28 seconds
Ep. 275: Discussion Combustion Returns
A year ago last September I welcomed Kevin Batstone (left) and Arthur Rawe to the show. At the time, they were still fairly new to podcasting and I gave insight and counsel best I could. What a difference a year makes! These guys have grown their show remarkably, and were recently nominated for three Hoppy...
12/23/2020 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 17 seconds
Ep. 274: Tony Zezas – Renaissance Man
Tony Zezas can converse with you on any subject for, I imagine, any length of time. He’s got incredible wit, insight, and charm. He’s one passed test away from earning his Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 4 Diploma in Wines. He’s helped launch James Beard recognized restaurants. He’s traveled all over and accumulated...
12/16/2020 • 1 hour, 5 minutes, 54 seconds
Ep. 273: John Connelly – Co-Author of Beyond Kuiper, Aerospace Engineer
John Connelly is the co-author of Beyond Kuiper: The Galactic Star Alliance. Here’s a teaser of what you can expect from it, taken from THE B.K.U: There is no Drake equation. There is no question on sentience. The galaxy is alive, filled with life, the only issue, us humans aren’t invited. The Galactic Star Alliance...
12/2/2020 • 52 minutes
Ep. 272: Jose Prieto – Lead Singer and Guitarist of MakeWar
Jose Prieto is the lead singer and guitarist of MakeWar, one of my new favorite bands. I became hip to MakeWar thanks to NERF, who curates KTCL’s HD Radio Station Punk Tacos. He loved their sound, and when I heard them the first time, I was immediately hooked. After my interview with Jake Kiley from...
11/25/2020 • 48 minutes, 16 seconds
Ep. 271: Noah Hutton – Writer & Director of Lapsis
Noah Hutton is the Writer and Director of Lapsis, a science fiction movie I had the privilege of seeing at Denver Film Festival 2020 (#DFF43). It’s described thusly on the film’s website: In a parallel present, delivery man Ray Tincelli is struggling to support himself and his ailing younger brother. After a series of two-bit...
11/11/2020 • 47 minutes, 14 seconds
Ep. 270: Mark Berzins – Executive Producer of Most Guys Are Losers
Mark Berzins is the Lead Dog at Little Pub Company, the largest independent pub and restaurant company in the state, under whose umbrella are several establishments I’ve spent a great deal of time in. Shoutout to The Spot, which was, well, my spot when I lived in West Wash Park, and the College Inn, which...
11/4/2020 • 56 minutes, 23 seconds
Ep. 269: Major Glen – Denver Rock Band
Major Glen makes rock music that feels like it could fit in virtually any era. That’s a tribute to the talent of its members, and also just how kickass their tunes are. Barrett Ward plays rhythm guitar and sings, Ben Brich plays drums, and they comprise half of this quartet formed in Glendale, CO. On...
10/28/2020 • 56 minutes, 10 seconds
Ep. 268: Christie Buchele – Comedian
Christie Buchele is a Denver-based standup comic, former host of the Empty Girlfriend Podcast, member of the Pussy Bros, teacher, and all-around cool chick. Big thanks to our mutual friend Cecile for hooking the two of us up! On this week’s show we talk about bridging the political gap between liberals and conservatives, how to...
10/14/2020 • 59 minutes, 40 seconds
Ep. 267: Kyle Bell – Former CSU Running Back
“I’ve got a fever… and the only prescription is more Kyle Bell.” You likely remember the Saturday Night Live skit with Christopher Walken as Bruce Dickinson coaching Blue Oyster Cult on how to punch up their song “Don’t Fear the Reaper” with more cowbell. Well, if you were in the stands at Hughes Stadium, you...
10/7/2020 • 1 hour, 6 minutes, 43 seconds
Ep. 266: Rob Rector – Podcaster OG, Film Buff
Rob Rector is responsible for my first ever podcast appearance. He ran a site called Natsukashi, and on May 1, 2009, he released our conversation with Stu Charno as the three of us discussed the 1985 gender-swapping farce Just One of the Guys. Rob’s structure of the show was impeccable, his hosting style amiable, and...
9/23/2020 • 1 hour, 23 minutes, 56 seconds
Ep. 265: Kitty Vincent – Owner, Revolver Salon; Lead Guitarist, Zealot
Kitty Vincent was introduced to me by a mutual friend (Hi, Cecile!), and she’s the owner of Revolver: A Salon in Denver, and the lead ripping guitarist for Denver band Zealot. It’s always a thrill to meet parents of young children that aren’t dorky ciphers and who actually continue to engage in other pursuits beyond...
9/16/2020 • 59 minutes, 13 seconds
Ep. 264: Ryan Mehaffey – Founder and CEO of Feast Over Famine
Ryan Mehaffey is the Founder and CEO of Feast Over Famine, which “helps servant hearted organizations to scale effectively & navigate the tension where mission and profit collide.” From their website: Our deepest desire as an organization is to see the global challenges that our world faces (poverty, hunger, incarceration, homelessness, addiction, etc) relieved and...
9/9/2020 • 1 hour, 1 second
Ep. 263: Dr. Jamie Bovay – Movement Jedi, Physical Therapist, Entrepreneur
Dr. Jamie Bovay is a Denver-based physical therapist who helps people recover from injury so they can stay active in their favorite sport/hobby, exercising, and fully enjoying life. He founded KinetikChain Denver when he wanted to create a different way to provide patient care and rehabilitation. Frustrated with the models of clinics seeing 3 or...
8/26/2020 • 48 minutes, 35 seconds
Jon’s Audio Resume Vol. 14: Public Relations Representative
Welcome to Jon’s Audio Resume, the Jon of All Trades solo exploration of all the weird ass jobs I’ve had in my life. This series runs in chronological order and here is my 14th job. Job: Public Relations Representative, Noble EnergyDuration: December 2010 – April 2015Pay: $72,000/yr. + bonus (starting)Did I get along with my boss(es)? How the hell...
8/19/2020 • 45 minutes, 42 seconds
Ep. 261: The Mazlows – Denver Punk Band
If the year 2020 has proven one thing to me – well, one thing that’s positive anyway – it’s that punk rock is what soothes my soul more than anything else. So, when I became aware of The Mazlows, a pop punk band out of Lakewood, CO – just next door to my hometown of...
Travis Volz and I have 33 mutual friends on Facebook. I don’t remember exactly when we connected, but that’s a lot for a dude prior to friending me that I’d never met, nor ever heard of. But I friended him anyway, and I’m glad I did because his Facebook game is ON POINT. Seriously, he’s...
7/29/2020 • 48 minutes, 22 seconds
Ep. 259: Dr. Brian Ott – Academic, Author, Professor
Dr. Brian Ott is the Head of the Department of Communication at Missouri State University. He is a scholar and public intellectual who has been studying rhetoric, media, and their intersection for more than 20 years. He has authored numerous books and essays on the changing nature of communication in the digital era, and he has...
7/22/2020 • 59 minutes, 48 seconds
Ep. 258: Betsy Wiersma – Serial Entrepreneur
Dude. Here’s who we’ve got today. Check out this body of work as listed on BetsyWiersma.com: Betsy Wiersma is a serial entrepreneur, author, global professional speaker and founder of the CampExperience Network, 5000+ women she has gathered for good. In her 20 years in Denver, she has started and led numerous creative charity support projects...
7/15/2020 • 59 minutes, 54 seconds
Ep. 257: Jake Kiley -Strung Out Lead Guitarist
Jake Kiley is the lead guitarist, and chief facemelter, for one of my all-time favorite bands: Strung Out. I’m almost loath to do a full writeup here because if you’re here, you’re likely well-acquainted with Strung Out’s work, but because he gave me some insights I wasn’t necessarily expecting, here are a few bullets of...
7/8/2020 • 57 minutes, 39 seconds
Ep. 256: Nick Gossert Returns, Creator of Lucha Libre & Laughs
Disclaimer: This was recorded on June 24. As of July 1, the State of Colorado has shut down bars and venues. Any references to the event taking place on July 17 and 18 should be amended to August 21 and 22. Nick Gossert was my guest on Ep. 121 of the show three and a...
7/1/2020 • 1 hour, 5 minutes, 28 seconds
Ep. 255: Dr. Lawrence Grossberg – Morris Davis Distinguished Professor of Communication and Cultural Studies, University of North Carolina
Dr. Lawrence Grossberg is Morris Davis Distinguished Professor,of Communication and Cultural Studies at University of North Carolina. He’s also the author of an article called “Another Boring Day in Paradise: Rock and Roll and the Empowerment of Everyday Life” which was one of the primary pieces of inspiration and foundation for my master’s thesis. He’s...
6/10/2020 • 1 hour, 9 minutes, 18 seconds
Ep. 254: The Murder of George Floyd, Protesting, Activism featuring R. Alan Brooks
As protests about the murder of George Floyd emerged and grew across the country, around the world, and in my hometown of Denver, Colorado, I hoped to use this platform, this privilege, and this communications channel to do my part in working to end white supremacy, amplify the message the Black Lives Matter, and in...
6/4/2020 • 1 hour, 8 minutes, 8 seconds
Ep. 253: Tom Breihan – Pop Culture Writer, Stereogum, AV Club, elsewhere
It was right about the third paragraph of his review of Total Recall in his superlative “A History of Violence” series on The A.V. Club, that Tom Breihan became my current favorite pop culture writer. Here’s that paragraph: Judged as a straight-up ’80s action movie, Total Recall is, quite simply, one of the best. It...
5/27/2020 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 45 seconds
Ep. 252: Sam Tallent – Stand-Up Comic, Author, Fine Gent
I met Sam Tallent the first time several years ago when I was a judge at Open Screen Night. He and two other members of The Fine Gentleman’s Club were hosts, and I was the only one – judge or host – who wasn’t a professional comedian. I was but a lowly blogger at the...
5/20/2020 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 54 seconds
Ep. 251: Ben Roy – The Grawlix, Musician, Comedian
Ben Roy is a founding member of The Grawlix, lead singer of the band SPELLS, a standup comedian, and co-creator of the TruTV show Those Who Can’t. He’s also an incredible intense dude, a complete chatterbox, and one of the nicest people I’ve ever interviewed on this show. He’s a force of nature onstage, and...
5/13/2020 • 1 hour, 21 minutes, 28 seconds
Ep. 250: Drew Magary Returns!
Drew Magary was nice enough to be on my show once already when he was promoting The Hike. That was Episode 139 in July of 2017. Kind of a lot has happened since then. Drew suffered an incredible brush with death when his brain hemorrhaged spontaneously after hosting The Deadspin Awards, went into a coma...
5/6/2020 • 50 minutes, 54 seconds
Ep. 249: Jonathan Shikes – Beer Writer, Author
Jonathan Shikes is a freelance writer for Denver Westword, author of Denver Beer: A History of Mile High Brewing, and one of my favorite beer nerds in the city. I first met him while doing publicity for the rollout of Old 121 Brewhouse, and have wanted to have him on the show ever since. During...
4/29/2020 • 42 minutes, 42 seconds
Ep. 248: Scott Keith – Professional Wrestling Writer
What do I say about Scott Keith here? I’ve probably read more of this man’s words on the internet than anyone else. (For the record, second and third place probably belong to Drew Magary and Roger Ebert.) On one of his old websites, he had a feature called “The Rant Crew” that allowed pretty much...
4/22/2020 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 45 seconds
Ep. 247: Ryan Spilborghs – Former MLB Outfielder, Current Colorado Rockies Broadcaster
Dude, it’s SPILLY! Ryan Spilborghs is one of my all-time Top 3 favorite Rockies (the other two, since you’re likely wondering, are Todd Helton and Nolan Arenado). The reason is that I loved his play, and more importantly, I loved his personality. He was a a big part of the huge beating heart of this...
4/15/2020 • 35 minutes, 45 seconds
Ep. 246: Eric Nusbaum – Author of Stealing Home
Eric Nusbaum is the author of Stealing Home: Los Angeles, he Dodgers, and the Lives Caught in Between. Here’s a brief description of the book from the website linked above to whet your appetite: Dodger Stadium is an American icon. But the story of how it came to be goes far beyond baseball. The hills...
4/8/2020 • 52 minutes, 25 seconds
Ep. 245: James Lane – Musician, Host, Traveler, Storyteller
Here’s James Lane’s original Facebook message to me on March 18: My name is James Lane and I am a Colorado creative and am interested in sharing my stories on your show. I’m an FM radio host at 92.9FM Denver, podcaster, musician that performed The Underground Music Showcase, travel blogger that just visited my 50th...
4/1/2020 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 9 seconds
Ep. 244: NERF from 93.3 KTCL and Punk Tacos (6-Year Anniversary!)
What are three of the things I love most? Punk rock. Radio. Denver. So, if I’m celebrating my 6-year anniversary of being a show, I’m doing it in style with a dude hugely responsible for Denver being such an amazing music town. I’ve got NERF from 93.3 KTCL talking with me (remotely, of course) about...
3/27/2020 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 25 seconds
Ep. 243: Uri Bulow – PhD and MD Student Studying Viral Entry #Coronavirus Spectacular!
Welp, I live in Denver, so I’m not going anywhere for awhile! As long as we’re here, why not create some great content? That’s right, the show is back on and I’m planning on having some amazing guests for you in the coming weeks. We’re going to get through this together, and I’m grateful for...
3/23/2020 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 48 seconds
Ep. 242: Mailbag March 2020
The Mailbag returns to the podcast. I take your questions in a fun, lively, sort of unhinged half hour. Anytime I do a solo episode, I choose intentionally not to edit it. So, if you’ve ever been curious what it’s like inside my brain, here it is – circuitous thinking, lots of profanity, strange opinions,...
3/4/2020 • 32 minutes, 40 seconds
Ep. 241: R. Alan Brooks Returns!
R. Alan Brooks appeared on this show 101 episodes ago (Episode 140, to be exact) talking about his graphic novel The Burning Metronome. He returns to talk about his newest graphic novel, a post-apocalyptic Western called Anguish Garden. Please check out his Kickstarter, which I have personally donated to, here. This is a dynamite show...
2/19/2020 • 1 hour, 11 minutes, 52 seconds
First Job: R. Alan Brooks
R. Alan Brooks was on this show two and a half years ago talking about his outstanding work The Burning Metronome, in addition to the multitude of other projects he’s always got his hands in. He returns Wednesday, February 19 to discuss his new project Anguish Garden and a ton more. Be sure to support...
2/17/2020 • 3 minutes, 32 seconds
Ep. 240: Liam Keegan – Owner, 24/7 Networks
Liam Keegan is the Founder and Owner of 24/7 Networks, a Denver-based IT services company offering innovative solutions backed by a team that is highly skilled, empowered and honest. He’s also the older brother of one of my oldest friends, and a great dude teeming with insights about the evolution of IT over the last...
2/5/2020 • 51 minutes, 55 seconds
First Job: Liam Keegan
Liam Keegan is the Owner of 24/7 Networks, which provides information technology services offering innovative solutions backed by a team that is highly skilled, empowered and honest. He’s the guest on Ep. 240 of the Jon of All Trades Podcast, airing Wednesday, February 5. But first, Liam tells me about his first job working for...
2/3/2020 • 4 minutes, 29 seconds
Ep. 239: Reyna Bryan Returns – Creator of RCD Packaging
Reyna Bryan was here nearly 5 years ago touting Recycling Is Sexy on Ep. 49 of the podcast. So, what’s she been up to since then? Lots! For starters, she’s created RCD Packaging, which is a packaging innovation and supply company that helps brands transition into leading-edge sustainable materials and formats (compostable, bio-based and recyclable)....
1/22/2020 • 48 minutes, 41 seconds
First Job: Reyna Bryan
Reyna Bryan makes her triumphant return to the show on Wednesday, January 22nd. You can check out her first episode from nearly five years ago (!) right here. In that time, Reyna has moved from social movement and consulting, to creating her own line of sustainable packaging solutions through RCD Packaging. But first, Reyna tells...
1/20/2020 • 3 minutes, 15 seconds
Ep. 238: Ramesh Madakasira – Creator of Urban Village Eat & Sip
Ramesh Madakasira is the creator of Urban Village Eat & Sip, located at 9234 Park Meadows Drive, Suite 700 in Lone Tree, CO. He’s also an IT professional who manages teams in the US and India. I sat down inside Urban Village with Ramesh and he bestowed upon me a pot of chai and an...
1/15/2020 • 58 minutes, 30 seconds
First Job: Ramesh Madakasira
Ramesh Madakasira is the creator of Urban Village Restaurant in Lone Tree and an IT developer with teams in the US and India. He’s the guest on Ep. 238 of the Jon of All Trades Podcast, which debuts Wednesday, January 15 in a fascinating and far-reaching chat. But first, Ramesh tells the story of opening...
1/13/2020 • 7 minutes, 57 seconds
Ep. 237: Monalicious – Artist, Musician, Community Leader
Mona Magno, better known as Monalicious, is a musical momma, video queen and community leader from Denver, CO. Currently she writes and performs with her band (formerly known as Twin Flame Medicine). Her sound has been defined as sweet nectar soul juice. Aside from creating music, Mona is the founder and executive director of a...
1/8/2020 • 52 minutes, 40 seconds
First Job: Monalicious
Mona Magno, better known as Monalicious, is a musical momma, video queen and community leader from Denver, CO. She’s got an incredible amount of projects going, and we spend nearly an hour talking about them in an absolutely fascinating chat. That episode drops on Wednesday, January 8. But first, Mona shares with me the story...
1/6/2020 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
Ep. 236: Gerald Rivers – Pro Football Player, Business Development at Bulow Jewelers
Gerald Rivers is new to the team at Bulow Jewelers, but being new to an organization has never been a challenge for him. When you’re a professional athlete, you find yourself integrating yourself into new cultures frequently, and, in his case, learning a brand new playbook every time you change teams. Gerald’s good at this,...
12/4/2019 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 15 seconds
First Job: Gerald Rivers
Gerald Rivers is a professional football player (formerly of the NFL, currently of the XFL), and serves in business development for Bulow Jewelers. We talk jewelry, football, career transitions, and a ton more on his full episode that drops on Wednesday, December 4. But first, Gerald shares with me his first job digging fence post...
12/2/2019 • 4 minutes, 25 seconds
Ep. 235: The First Jobs of Denver Film Festival 42
Happy Thanksgiving week! In honor of most people having a few days off (save for the poor retail people who get to see certain subsets of humanity at their absolute worst), let’s spend some time talking about First Jobs. While covering Denver Film Festival 2019 (#DFF42), I actually remembered to ask each guest about their...
11/27/2019 • 22 minutes, 58 seconds
Ep. 234: Trey Edward Shults – Director of Waves
My last interview from Denver Film Festival 42 is an exciting one. I’ve got Trey Edward Shults, Director of Waves, a movie I’ve scarcely stopped thinking about since I saw it about two weeks ago. Here’s what I wrote after watching it: “This film is visceral and thrilling and harrowing, but also quiet and contemplative...
11/20/2019 • 30 minutes, 36 seconds
Ep. 233: Jeffrey McHale – Director of You Don’t Nomi
Jeffrey McHale is the Director, Writer, Editor and Producer of You Don’t Nomi, a film described thusly: “A chorus of film critics and fervent devotees explore the complicated afterlife of 1995’s biggest film flop, Paul Verhoeven’s Showgirls, from disastrous release to cult adoration and extraordinary redemption.” In many ways, this documentary felt like it was...
11/13/2019 • 52 minutes, 21 seconds
Ep. 232: Nate Bakke, Pete Gardner and Dan Cummings – Man Camp
Coming to you from Denver Film Festival 2019 (DFF42), is Man Camp, directed by Nate Bakke, written by Daniel Cummings (who also stars), and starring Pete Gardner (who is best known for his work on Crazy Ex-Girlfriend). The movie is a comedy about three brothers who commemorate their dad each year at their cabin, but...
11/8/2019 • 55 minutes, 2 seconds
Ep. 231: Jack Sim and Lily Zepeda – Mr. Toilet
Jack Sim and Lily Zepeda are the subject and director (respectively) of Mr. Toilet: The World’s #2 Man, a documentary that I had the privilege of seeing at Denver Film Festival 42. Jack has dedicated the last 22 years to helping bring toilets to parts of the world that don’t have them. It’s easy to...
11/6/2019 • 48 minutes, 44 seconds
Ep. 230: Mailbag!
Time for a long overdue mailbag episode! I take your questions and answer them. I love nothing more than a good riff, and having a bunch of inane shit to play off of makes this a really fun, short listen. In this week’s mailbag, we tackle whether I’d rather be Anna or Elsa from Frozen,...
10/30/2019 • 35 minutes, 2 seconds
Ep. 229: Dax Hunter Jordan – Musician, Producer, Teacher
Dax Hunter Jordan is someone I’ve been friends with since I was 12, but that I haven’t talked to in probably 20 years. He’s a musician, a producer, and a music teacher who’s had a remarkable career. You can find more of him at his official website. All the ways of keeping up with Dax...
10/23/2019 • 1 hour, 24 minutes, 44 seconds
First Job: Dax Hunter Jordan
Dax Hunter Jordan is a musician, producer and music teacher and you can find his impressive body of work at his website. He joins me for a long and thoroughly fascinating chat on Wednesday, October 23. But first, he shares with me his first job at 16 years-old working as a lifeguard at Water World....
10/21/2019 • 4 minutes, 34 seconds
Ep. 228: Sydney Kjerstad – Leader of Smart Game Piano
Sydney Kjerstad is the creator and leader of Smart Game Piano, an online education platform that helps you learn your favorite video game songs on the piano in minutes. As someone who hasn’t played video games regularly in probably a decade+, I had no idea there was such affinity for video game music. But after talking...
10/9/2019 • 53 minutes, 3 seconds
First Job: Sydney Kjerstad
Sydney Kjerstad is the creator of Smart Game Piano, an online education platform that helps you learn your favorite video game songs on the piano in minutes. Her full episode drops on Wednesday, October 9. But first, she shares with me her first job at the age of 15 teaching younger kids how to play...
10/7/2019 • 4 minutes, 22 seconds
Ep. 227: Risa Scott – Creative Entrepreneur, Nomad
The first time I ever saw Risa Scott, she was materializing seemingly out of thin air to blow away some ninjas in Jean Claude Van Damme’s Damn Van directed by my good friend, and constant artistic inspiration Brad Haag. So when Brad suggested I talk to Risa on this show, I jumped at the chance....
10/1/2019 • 59 minutes, 58 seconds
First Job: Risa Scott
Risa Scott is an entrepreneur traveling the country in her custom built RV, and is currently focused on her photography business. She’s had a fascinating journey and we touch on everything from climbing gyms to her time on American Ninja Warrior to living that van life and much more. Her full episode drops Wednesday, October...
9/30/2019 • 4 minutes, 54 seconds
Ep. 226: Arthur Rawe and Kevin Batstone – Discussion Combustion Podcast
Arthur Rawe and Kevin Batstone are the creators and hosts of the Discussion Combustion Podcast, a new(ish) podcast on the Denver scene featuring two hardworking guys from different backgrounds, and the conversations they have a broad assortment of guests. They reached out to me through friend of the show Paul Karolyi (who you can now...
9/25/2019 • 52 minutes, 20 seconds
First Job: Kevin Batstone
Kevin Batstone (pictured left), is one of the creators of the Discussion Combustion Podcast, a new-ish podcast on the Denver scene. I sit down with them and talk all things podcasting this Wednesday, September 25. But first, I ask Kevin about his first job and he tells me about his first gig bagging groceries, how...
9/23/2019 • 3 minutes, 56 seconds
Ep. 225: Jason Price – Select Communications, Former EMT
Jason Price is one of the head honchos of Select Communications, a firm where tell them your technology needs and they’ll do all the heavy lifting. Their team of product engineers brings you quotes from the top carriers and provides you with behind-the-scenes product comparisons and information that you will not get from any direct...
9/18/2019 • 1 hour, 25 seconds
First Job: Jason Price
Jason Price is one of the head honchos of Select Communications, a firm where tell them your technology needs and they’ll do all the heavy lifting. Their team of product engineers brings you quotes from the top carriers and provides you with behind-the-scenes product comparisons and information that you will not get from any direct...
9/16/2019 • 5 minutes, 15 seconds
Ep. 224: Dustin Wendling – Global Citizen
I’ve known Dustin Wendling since I was 12 years old. I joined Ralston Elementary School in 6th grade, and we hit it off pretty quickly. In one of the only projects I remember from that year, he and I (along with another kid) formed a company called “Syco, Inc.” that sold stress balls (balloons filled...
8/28/2019 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 20 seconds
First Job – Dustin Wendling
Dustin Wendling is an old friend of mine doing a complex and important job as an ex-pat living in Mexico City. Honestly, though, we don’t spend that much time talking about it on this week’s show airing Wednesday, August 28. We end up talking about big ideas because he’s one of the most fascinating people...
8/26/2019 • 3 minutes, 37 seconds
Ep. 223: Noah, Evan and Taylor – Snowman Films
Noah Mittman, Evan Fries, and Taylor Oxley are three creative professionals associated with Snowman Films and The Unfinished Degree Podcast. Snowman Films is an award-winning video production company, and content marketing subscription service based in Golden, Colorado. We specialize in all forms of video production; small and growing business, commercial/advertisement, 360° VR video, promotional, weddings,...
8/21/2019 • 1 hour, 8 minutes, 25 seconds
First Job: Noah Mittman
Noah Mittman is the head honcho at Snowman Films, an award-winning video production company, and content marketing subscription service based in Golden, Colorado. His full episode, in which he appears with his cohorts Evan Fries and Taylor Oxley, debuts Wednesday, August 21. But first, Evan tells me about his first job screwing off at a...
8/19/2019 • 3 minutes, 49 seconds
Ep. 222: Solo Ep – Mental Health Check-In
“But I’m telling you the truth… I mean it. I’m okay! Trust me.” – I’m Not Okay (I Promise) by My Chemical Romance. Here’s the thing. I actually am okay! But when I opened up about some of my mental health issues three months ago, many of you reached out to me to tell you how much that episode meant to you. So I figured it prudent to do a check-in with you. Once again...
8/14/2019 • 28 minutes, 56 seconds
Ep. 221: Shahara Jagrati Mattingly – Transformational Health Coach
Shahara Jagrati Mattingly is the Chief Excitement Officer (CEO) at Delicious Awakening Transformational Health Coaching. Shahara uses “a blend of ancient wisdom and modern science to empower clients with strategies and mindful practices that will transform their health and confidence.” In her own words: After spending years trying to manage alcohol and drug abuse with...
7/31/2019 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 10 seconds
First Job: Shahara Jagrati Mattingly
Shahara Jagrati Mattingly is the Chief Excitement Officer at Delicious Awakening: Transformational Health Coaching, where she uses a blend of ancient wisdom and modern science to empower clients with strategies and mindful practices that will transform their health and confidence. Her full episode debuts Wednesday, July 31. But first, she shares with me her first...
7/29/2019 • 3 minutes, 39 seconds
Ep. 220: Adam Johnston – CEO, Last Call Trivia
Adam Johnston is the CEO of Last Call Trivia, which began in the Fall of 2007 when Adam and his co-founder Drew saw a niche for great Trivia Nights in the Cincinnati market. The 10 years that followed bootstrapped their love of Trivia into the seats of hundreds of bars across the country. His team...
7/24/2019 • 56 minutes, 55 seconds
First Job: Adam Johnston
Adam Johnston (second from left) is the CEO of Last Call Trivia, providing entertaining nights out for thousands of people all across the country. He’s the guest on Ep. 220 of the podcast debuting this Wednesday, July 24. (I say July 27 in my intro and outro here, but I’m clearly an idiot) But first,...
7/22/2019 • 5 minutes, 33 seconds
Ep. 219: McLernon & Co – #KeepSocialMediaSocial
Amanda McLernon and Emily Klipp are the CEO and COO, respectively, of McLernon & Co, whose social media obsession is to #KeepSocialMediaSocial. What does that mean? In their words, it means “we focus on building real, honest connections with people through innovative social media strategy. We create and encourage conversations that build engagement among your...
7/17/2019 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 26 seconds
First Job: Emily Klipp
Emily Klipp is the Chief Operating Officer at McLernon & Co, a company attempting to #KeepSocialMediaSocial. What’s that mean? It means they “focus on building real, honest connections with people through innovative social media strategy.” She and Amanda McLernon are the guests on Ep. 219 of the podcast debuting on July 17, 2019. But first,...
7/15/2019 • 5 minutes, 22 seconds
Ep. 218: Gin Walker – Copy Genie
Gin Walker is the Copy Genie, and since words are her business, I’ll cede the floor to her and let her tell you about her work in her own words: I help superstars like you fire up your true audience and make the impact (and money) you crave. Using my actor-brain, I write conversion copy...
7/10/2019 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 35 seconds
First Job: Gin Walker
Gin Walker is the Copy Genie, and she writes words that sell big-hearted brands at scale, allowing them to make the impact (AND MONEY) they crave. Our full conversation airs on Wednesday, July 10, and it’s damn fun. But first, Gin tells me about her first job slinging shoes at Freeman Hardy Willis in Kingston Upon Thames,...
7/8/2019 • 5 minutes, 35 seconds
Ep. 217: Nick McQuik – Comedian, Entrepreneur
Dude, this show is one of the most fun shows I’ve done in a very long time! Nick McQuik reached out to me a week ago, and I didn’t know what to expect. Little did I know this guy has done what seems like EVERYTHING. Here’s a list of some of the things we talked...
6/25/2019 • 1 hour, 5 minutes
First Job: Nick McQuik
Nick McQuik is a comedian, podcaster, TV producer, on-air personality, former mechanic, and all-around fascinating dude. He sits down with me this Wednesday, June 26 for a full chat. But before we get there, he tells me the most harrowing story I think I’ve ever had on First Jobs. Let Nick tell you about moving...
6/24/2019 • 5 minutes, 4 seconds
Ep. 216: Kent Frazier – Leadership Coach, HR Executive, Fellow Dad
Kent Frazier is a seasoned and wise HR Executive, catalyst and steward of Conscious Capitalism, Ironman Finisher, musician, athlete, father, and transformational coach. Kent is also an advocate for ending stigma related to mental health in the workplace, sharing his experience with depression and anxiety on the Silent Superheroes podcast. He’s also my buddy, as...
6/19/2019 • 59 minutes, 45 seconds
First Job: Kent Frazier
Kent Frazier is a seasoned and wise HR Executive, catalyst and steward of Conscious Capitalism, Ironman Finisher, musician, athlete, father, and transformational coach. You can find him at his website. He’s also the guest on Ep. 216 of the podcast, debuting June 19. But first, Kent shares his first job delivering newspapers in Quakertown, PA....
6/17/2019 • 3 minutes, 55 seconds
Ep. 215: Erin Parisi – Founder of TranSending
Erin Parisi is the Founder of TranSending, a 501c3 designated non-profit dedicated to the advancement of transgender rights throughout all aspects of society by promoting athletics as a platform of transgender awareness and inclusion. Their Inaugural Challenge of “The 7 Summits” takes on a goal never before accomplished: we are placing Erin Parisi, a transgender athlete,...
6/12/2019 • 55 minutes, 26 seconds
First Job: Erin Parisi
Erin Parisi is the founder of TranSending 7, and she’s the guest on Ep. 215 of the Jon of All Trades Podcast this Wednesday, June 12. She’s got a story to tell, and you definitely don’t want to miss this one. But first, Erin shares with us the story of working at a car wash...
6/10/2019 • 3 minutes, 25 seconds
Ep. 214: Old 121 Brewhouse
Jason Bailey and Brett Zahrte are two of the founders of Old 121 Brewhouse in Lakewood, CO. Their doors have been open for just over two months, so they sat down with me to discuss what they’ve learned, what’s been most surprising, and what’s next. Through my company, I helped them with their rollout and...
6/5/2019 • 58 minutes, 24 seconds
First Job: Jason Bailey
Jason Bailey is the head brewer at Old 121 Brewhouse, and he, along with fellow co-founder Brett Zahrte, will be the guest on Ep. 214 of the Jon of All Trades Podcast debuting Wednesday, June 5. It’s a great chat you won’t want to miss. But first, he shares with me his first job busing...
6/3/2019 • 4 minutes, 46 seconds
Ep. 213: I’m Back, Baby!
Straight from the heart, stream-of-consciousness to my mouth, and into your ears, here’s the episode where I re-launch the podcast. I talk what led to the show going on hiatus, my struggles with depression, my philosophy on business, toss in a few outdated pop culture references, use a ton of profanity (because that’s how my...
5/29/2019 • 27 minutes, 51 seconds
Ep. 212: Ryzin – Professional Wrestler
(Rob) Ryzin is an independent professional wrestler who I talked to on Episode 59 of this show. A lot has changed in the nearly four years since he appeared last, and we get into all of it here on this week’s show. For starters, Ryzin earned himself an official WWE tryout, which, as he explains...
4/4/2019 • 58 minutes, 40 seconds
First Job: Ryzin
Rob Ryzin (now just going by the name Ryzin) is an independent professional wrestler who last year earned a tryout with the WWE. He was a guest on this show four years ago, and a lot has happened since then including the aforementioned tryout, a complete reinvention of his character, and a new book! You’ll...
4/2/2019 • 3 minutes, 54 seconds
Ep. 211: Michael Roberts – Denver Westword
Michael Roberts has been writing for the Denver Westword since 1990. He began as a Music Editor, but has written about pretty much everything ever since. He’s a dynamite (and incredibly prolific) reporter, but I’d argue one of his finest qualities is his long form interviews. As an interviewer myself, I’m always fascinated by others...
3/27/2019 • 54 minutes, 40 seconds
First Job: Michael Roberts
Michael Roberts has been a reporter for the Westword for nearly 29 years. He’s a journalist I admire greatly, and he is the new speed record holder for responding to me. His full episode goes live Wednesday, March 27. But before we get there, I asked him about his first job and he doesn’t disappoint....
3/25/2019 • 3 minutes, 58 seconds
Jon’s Audio Resume Vol. 13: Marketing Manager, Energy Drink
Welcome to Jon’s Audio Resume, the Jon of All Trades solo exploration of all the weird ass jobs I’ve had in my life. This series runs in chronological order and here is my 13th job. Job: Marketing Manager, Energy Drink Company (will remain unnamed)Duration: March 2010 – May 2010Pay: $45,000/yr.Did I get along with my boss(es)? Fuck and...
Shalisa Pouw is someone I met when I was 12. We were pals, and then she went to a different high school and we didn’t reconnect again until a few weeks ago. I’m so glad we did, because she’s got a fascinating work history. Thanks to Ginna Santy and Mel Ulle for bringing Shalisa back...
2/27/2019 • 52 minutes, 33 seconds
First Job: Shalisa Pouw
Shalisa Pouw is someone I first met when I was 12, and I’m thrilled to reconnect with her now. The best place to keep up with her multitude of ventures on her Instagram account @Shalisa_P, but I’ll also call out her work with DiningOut Events and The Wedding Event. More about her multiple ventures this...
2/25/2019 • 3 minutes, 37 seconds
Ep. 208: Dan Grant – Author, Electrical Engineer
Dan Grant is the author of The Singularity Witness and the upcoming Thirteen Across. I met him at an event hosted by the Colorado Independent Publishers Association last summer, which is the event that keeps on giving. On this week’s episode, we talk a great deal about the craft and process of writing, something I always love...
2/20/2019 • 54 minutes, 4 seconds
First Job: Dan Grant
Dan Grant (right), is an author and an electrical engineer. His first novel, The Singularity Witness, is available on a variety of platforms, all of which you can find right here. He’s the guest on Ep. 208 of the Jon of All Trades Podcast debuting this Wednesday, February 20. But first, he tells me all about his...
2/18/2019 • 3 minutes, 56 seconds
Ep. 207: Will Spilo – Co-founder of CBD Luxe
Will Spilo is the Co-founder of CBD Luxe, which sells CBD inhalers, tinctures, vape pens and CBD sublingual sprays. He’s had a fascinating journey leading up to the founding of this company, which includes a career as a big mountain snowboarder, an international heli-ski guide, owner of a construction business, and a stint in private...
2/13/2019 • 49 minutes, 3 seconds
First Job: Will Spilo
Will Spilo is the Co-Founder of CBD Luxe, which sells CBD inhalers, tinctures, vape pens and CBD sublingual sprays. He’s the guest on Ep. 207 of the Jon of All Trades Podcast, debuting February 13. We talk about the company, his career as a big mountain snowboarder and International Heli Ski guide, and a ton...
2/11/2019 • 3 minutes, 17 seconds
Ep. 206: Ed Sealover – Reporter, Denver Business Journal
Ed Sealover covers government, economic development, transportation, hospitality and brewing for the Denver Business Journal. He’s someone I’ve worked with professionally on behalf of my clients, and someone I’ve bumped into more than a few times at beer festivals and enjoy a fun personal rapport with on account of our affinity for craft beer. This...
2/6/2019 • 58 minutes, 57 seconds
First Job: Ed Sealover
Ed Sealover is a journalist with the Denver Business Journal and he covers government, economic development, transportation, hospitality and brewing. It’s an absolute ton of beats, which means our chat on Ep. 206 that debuts on February 6 has no shortage of things to discuss. It’s terrific. But first, he tells me about selling subscriptions...
2/4/2019 • 4 minutes, 9 seconds
Ep. 205: Joan Rogliano – Founder of Wildflower Group, Realtor
Joan Rogliano is the founder of the Wildflower Group, which, for more than a decade, has empowered women by providing education, resources, connections to trustworthy professionals, fun events, and a community of emotional support. From their website: Women experiencing divorce often feel alone, find a lack of resources, and don’t know where to turn or whom to...
1/30/2019 • 50 minutes, 31 seconds
First Job: Joan Rogliano
Joan Rogliano is the Founder of the Wildflower Group, and Principal at Rogliano Real Estate Group. She has dedicated the last 13+ years to helping women write the next chapter of their lives after divorce by providing all sorts of resources to them. Her full episode debuts on Wednesday, January 30. But first, I ask...
1/28/2019 • 4 minutes, 49 seconds
Ep. 204: Jake Browne Returns – Co-Founder of The Grow-Off
Jake Browne first appeared on this show in October of 2015. At that point, we discussed his job as pot critic at The Denver Post, his role as host of Uncalled Four, a comedy game show, and co-host of the Whiskey & Cigarettes Podcast. He’s not doing any of those things anymore. He’s now the...
1/16/2019 • 1 hour, 28 seconds
First Job: Jake Browne
Jake Browne first appeared on the show more than three years ago on Episode 75. And considering he’s no longer doing any of the three things I ostensibly interviewed him for, I thought it time to invite him back. That episode is coming up on Wednesday, January 16. But first, Jake shares with me his...
1/14/2019 • 5 minutes, 10 seconds
Ep. 203: Dr. Martin Carcasson – CSU Professor, Director of Center for Public Deliberation
Martín Carcasson, Ph.D., is a professor in the Communication Studies department of Colorado State University, and the founder and director of the CSU Center for Public Deliberation (CPD). The CPD is dedicated to enhancing local democracy through improved public communication and community problem-solving. From their website: “Our aim is to improve the way our community...
1/9/2019 • 0
First Job: Dr. Martin Carcasson
Martín Carcasson, Ph.D., is a professor in the Communication Studies department of Colorado State University, and the founder and director of the CSU Center for Public Deliberation (CPD). He’s also the first guest of 2019 on the Jon of All Trades Podcast, and his episode (Ep. 203) debuts Wednesday, January 9. But first, he shares...
1/7/2019 • 0
First Job: Peter Moore
It’s First Jobs week here at the Jon of All Trades Podcast! In lieu of doing a long form episode this week, I’m highlighting some of my favorite professional people as they tell me all about their first jobs. Peter Moore (left), pictured above with Rich Coolidge (another one of my favorite colleagues) is the...
12/21/2018 • 0
First Job: Lynn Granger
It’s First Jobs week here at the Jon of All Trades Podcast! In lieu of doing a long form episode this week, I’m highlighting some of my favorite professional people as they tell me all about their first jobs. Lynn Granger, seen above in a screengrab doing Vital for Colorado Radio with me last month,...
12/20/2018 • 0
First Job: Debbie Brown
It’s First Jobs week here at the Jon of All Trades Podcast! In lieu of doing a long form episode this week, I’m highlighting some of my favorite professional people as they tell me all about their first jobs. Today I’ve got Debbie Brown (pictured above with her son Trevor at an energy industry rally),...
12/18/2018 • 0
First Job: Braden Dick
It’s First Jobs week here at the Jon of All Trades Podcast! In lieu of doing a long form episode this week, I’m highlighting some of my favorite professional people as they tell me all about their first jobs. Today I’ve got Braden Dick, my co-founder of Mile High 100 (also linked on Facebook here),...
12/17/2018 • 0
Ep. 202: Shawn Marek – Producer for PodcastOne, Wrestling Nerd
Shawn Marek is a producer for PodcastOne, the largest advertiser-supported, on-demand digital audio network. Of the eight or so shows he produces, by far and away my favorite one is The Steve Austin Show. Turns out, Shawn and I exist in just about perfect parallel dimensions considering we both began our love of professional wrestling in...
12/12/2018 • 0
Ep. 200: Kristin Crites – My Wife, Friend, Consigliere, and Inspiration
As I approached Episode 200, a crazy milestone I never envisioned hitting when I started this show four and a half years ago, I knew I wanted to give you something I never had before. Because once you hit 200 episodes, you’ve necessarily covered a lot of ground. I’ve had filmmakers, restauranteurs, rock stars, drag...
11/28/2018 • 0
Ep. 199: Jello Biafra, Groovie Mann, Julia Nash & Mark Skillicorn – Wax Trax!
Here’s the synopsis of Industrial Accident: The Story of Wax Trax! Records: From humble beginnings in Denver, Colorado, Jim Nash and Dannie Flesher built one of the most influential American independent record labels. In 1978 they opened Wax Trax! Records in Chicago, Illinois, which would evolve into a record store and music label like no...
11/15/2018 • 55 minutes, 42 seconds
Ep. 198: Breaking the Bee Filmmakers
“Since 1999, 19 of the last 23 winners of the Scripps National Spelling Bee have been Indian-American, and an Indian-American has won for 11 straight years making the incredible trend one of the longest in sports history. “Breaking the Bee” is a feature-length documentary that explores and celebrates this new dynasty while following four students, ages...
11/13/2018 • 0
Ep. 197: Isa Mazzei and Daniel Goldhaber – Filmmakers of Cam
In the film Cam, an erotic webcam performer seeks success, but one day finds her online identity hijacked and seems bent on destroying her life. It’s a movie that works both as a thriller, and as a commentary of how we construct our digital identity and where and how that identity intersects with our real lives. It’s...
11/8/2018 • 0
Ep. 196: Meow Wolf Origin Story Filmmakers
When Denver Film Festival 41 was announced, one of the films I was most excited to see was the Meow Wolf Origin Story. If you’re at all interested in art, culture, and live in the American Southwest, you’ve probably heard a ton about Meow Wolf and how it’s changing the art world for the better....
11/6/2018 • 52 minutes, 18 seconds
Ep. 195: Britta Erickson – Festival Director of Denver Film Festival
Britta Erickson is Director of the Denver Film Festival, and has been for the last 11 years. She got her start at the Denver Film Festival in 1999, as part of a two-month contract. 20 years later, here she is running things. On this week’s show we go behind the scenes of the Festival talking...
10/31/2018 • 0
First Job: Britta Erickson
Britta Erickson is the Festival Director for the Denver Film Festival. She’s also my guest on Episode 195 of the Jon of All Trades Podcast debuting October 31, 2018. But first, she shares with stories from her first job working as a caddy at Cherry Hills Country Club. Working outside, playing cards with cute boys,...
10/29/2018 • 0
Ep. 194: Anthony Pigliacampo – Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Modern Market
Anthony Pigliacampo is the Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Modern Market Eatery, featuring 29 stores in 5 states. From their website: At Modern Market Eatery we serve fresh-crafted eats from the heart of the market. Our ingredients are pure, simple, and grown to make you feel good. Our fresh and vibrant dishes are passionately crafted from...
10/24/2018 • 53 minutes, 10 seconds
First Job: Anthony Pigliacampo
Anthony Pigliacampo is the Founder and Co-CEO of Modern Market Farm Fresh Eatery. He’s also my guest on Ep. 194 of the Jon of All Trades Podcast, debuting October 24, 2018. But first, he shares with me his first foray into the food service business, as he discusses his first job, at a mere 8...
10/22/2018 • 0
Ep. 193: Lindsey & Tyler Mintz – Co Founders of Arcanum
Lindsey and Tyler Mintz are the co-founders of Arcanum, a company specializing in activated hemp. Working with Mary’s Nutritionals, Arcanum creates performance and recovery products that will transform your body from the inside out. Lindsey and Tyler have an interesting story as neither of them were particularly interested in the cannabis industry, but an autoimmune disease...
10/17/2018 • 0
First Job – Tyler Mintz
Tyler Mintz, pictured far left, is the Managing Partner at Arcanum Sports Performance, and he, along with his wife Lindsey, are the guests on Ep. 193 of the Jon of All Trades Podcast debuting on Wednesday, October 17, 2018. But first, he shares with me his experience working as a “sewer inspector’s bitch” as his...
10/15/2018 • 0
First Job: Tiffany Couch
Tiffany Couch is the producer of the Monkey Tooth Podcast, which recently interviewed ME (and you can find that right here). She was good enough to share with me her first job working in a bowling alley behind the snack bar, which had the added benefit of being right next to the actual bar where...
10/12/2018 • 0
First Job: Andrew Couch
Andrew Couch is the host of the Monkey Tooth Podcast, where he recently interviewed ME (you can find that right here). While I didn’t do a full interview with him, listen in as he describes his hilarious first job at an all-you-can-eat catfish restaurant in Tennessippi.
10/11/2018 • 0
Ep. 192: Dr. Clare Ennis DVM, Owner of Canyon View Animal Hospital
Dr. Clare Ennis, DVM, is a practicing veterinarian and the owner of Canyon View Animal Hospital, a small, locally-owned veterinary clinic serving Littleton and the Ken Caryl area. From their website: “We take pride in knowing our clients and their pets by name. Here at Canyon View, you can always see the same veterinarian, allowing...
10/10/2018 • 53 minutes, 13 seconds
First Job: Dr. Clare Ennis
Dr. Clare Ennis, a veterinarian and owner of Canyon View Animal Hospital, joins me on Wednesday, October 10 to talk all things veterinary medicine and small business ownership. Think you know what it’s like to be a veterinarian? Think again. But first, listen to Dr. Ennis share with me her first job in a lab...
10/8/2018 • 0
Ep. 191: Sandra Murphy – Voice Mama (Voiceover Artist)
Sandra Murphy, also known as the Voice Mama, is a Denver-based voiceover artist who works on commercials, e-learning courses, and audio books. She reached out to me before my appearance at the Colorado Independent Publishers Association thing I did a couple of weeks ago and asked me if I’d featured voiceover work on the show....
10/3/2018 • 0
Ep. 190: Chuck Robertson – Lead Singer of Mad Caddies
Chuck Robertson is the lead singer of the Mad Caddies, one of my favorite bands of all-time. They played here last Friday and Saturday as part of Scallywag Fest, which marked somewhere it the neighborhood of 20 times I’ve seen them live. Chuck shares the story of how the Caddies got started in high school,...
9/26/2018 • 0
First Job: Chuck Robertson
Chuck Robertson (second from right) is the lead singer of the Mad Caddies and he joins me Wednesday, September 26 for a full episode talking about the history of the band, where they’re going from here, and a ton more. But first, Chuck tells me about his very first job mowing lawns in his neighborhood...
9/24/2018 • 0
Ep. 189: Justin Thomson – Drag Queen Culture, Food Industry, Weight Loss Surgery
Justin Thomson has been a good friend of my wife since middle school, and I’ve had the privilege of knowing him for the last few years. Every time we got together, he always had the best and most interesting stories to tell, so when I saw him again after a bit at my wife’s high...
9/19/2018 • 0
Ep. 188: Ari Hoffman – Psychotherapist, Outdoor Guide
Ari Hoffman is a psychotherapist who recently fully went out on his own. You can find his website here. He cares about shifting the paradigm not only for how we address, understand and treat mental health, but also healthcare in general. That’s why he founded the Integrated Care Institute, which you can also learn more...
9/12/2018 • 0
First Job: Ari Hoffman
Ari Hoffman, pictured left, joins me this Wednesday, September 12 for Episode 188 of the podcast and talks about his work as a psychotherapist, an outdoor guide and more. But first, he’s here to tell us all about his first job. And it’s a good one! Tune in to hear about how Ari came to...
9/10/2018 • 0
Ep. 187: Eric Yochim – Two Rivers Coffee
Eric Yochim is the founder and head honcho of Two Rivers Coffee, Arvada’s most highly recognized coffee shop for service and coffee excellence. He was referred to me by CJ Latham, guest on Episode 178 of the show, and with whom he collaborated on CJ’s Pre-Ride Cold Brew. On this week’s show, Eric tells me the...
9/5/2018 • 0
First Job: Eric Yochim
In honor of Labor Day, I launch a new feature: First Jobs. On Mondays of each week, I’ll ask my guests what their first job was (or maybe it’ll be a different question, who knows!), and share with you their answers in a brief audio clip hyping this week’s show. It’s a fun way of...
9/3/2018 • 0
Ep. 186: Jay Mays – Entrepreneur, Comic, Founder of Pitch Lab
Better storytelling. Better delivery. Better room command. If you’re interested in leveling up any of these skills, then you’ve got to check out Pitch Lab. Founded by Jay Mays after he ended his stand-up comedy career, he’s honed the skills he learned behind a mic and is helping others apply them to their own jobs....
8/22/2018 • 0
Ep. 185: Liz Marasco – Linguist, Program Manager for 4Degre.es
Liz Marasco is a linguist, having earned her MA in Linguistics from CU Boulder, and currently serves as Program Manager at 4Degre.es. Yes, 4Degre.es is my sponsor, but they did not pay me to do this show. Zach Knaus is the head honcho at 4Degre.es, and a longtime friend. So he approached me about having...
Kathy Walker is the News Director at 850 KOA NewsRadio in Denver. She has worked there since 1990. Any time I get to talk journalism, and radio in particular, I’m excited. Kathy’s had a fascinating career path having left college early to work as Marketing Director for a shopping mall in San Jose, winding through...
8/1/2018 • 0
Ep. 183: Tucker Gumber – The Festival Guy
I know him as Tucker Gumber, a good buddy from my days working at KCSU fm during college. If you know Tucker these days, it’s probably as The Festival Guy. You see, Tucker has gone to 137 festivals across seven years (seven in 2018 alone as of this writing in July), and participated from basically...
7/25/2018 • 0
Jon’s Audio Resume Vol. 11 – Lobbying and Public Policy
Welcome to Jon’s Audio Resume, the Jon of All Trades solo exploration of all the weird ass jobs I’ve had in my life. This series runs in chronological order and here is my 11th job. Job: Communications Specialist, Policy Communications, Inc. Duration: October 2006 – April 2007 Pay: $35,000/yr. Did I get along with my boss(es)? Well enough, but...
7/18/2018 • 0
Ep. 181: Solo – Customer Service Spectacular!
Since I’ve been up to my ass in moving hell, and considering the subject of this week’s episode, I think it appropriate to drop a solo episode on you all. When you move, you end up working with a whole slew of subcontractors and I suppose it’s to be expected that your experience with them...
7/11/2018 • 0
Ep. 180: Younger Than Neil – Denver Ska Band
I saw Denver ska band Younger Than Neil open for Mustard Plug and the Bouncing Souls. They put on a killer set. Then my friend Jason put one of their songs on a road trip mix, and from there I downloaded their EP. The morning I listened to it, I couldn’t stop. I loved it so...
No, I didn’t actually talk to Peggy Olson, but I got the next best thing. I talk to my new friend Caitlin about her history of work in the advertising industry. As a business marketing major, and having gone to college near a lot of ad agencies, Caitlin decided to give advertising a try. She...
6/13/2018 • 0
Ep. 178: CJ Latham – Founder of Bike A Latte
CJ Latham is the founder Bike A Latte. From their website: “Fueling athletes with the highest quality coffee the world has to offer. You take pride in your coffee. We exist to provide you with that high quality coffee experience any where your bike takes you. #CoffeePedalRepeat” He’s also my friend from way back, a...
6/6/2018 • 58 minutes, 9 seconds
Ep. 177: Evan Weissman – Founder, Warm Cookies of the Revolution
What is Warm Cookies of the Revolution? According to their founder Evan Weissman, it’s a “civic health club.” And what’s that? According to their website, “Well, you go to a gym to exercise your physical health, a religious institution to exercise your spiritual health, and a therapist to exercise your mental health. Warm Cookies of...
5/30/2018 • 0
Ep. 175: Cat Jaffee – Founder, House of Pod
Catherine de Medici Jaffee is a producer and founder of House of Pod. She spent many years as a National Geographic Explorer on the Turkish/Armenian/Georgian/Azerbaijani borders, she’s produced and consulted for Radiotopia and Gimlet, and she loves giving people chicken eggs. While the only part of that I cannot verify personally is her love of giving...
5/23/2018 • 0
Ep. 175: Vinnie Fiorello – Drummer and Lyricist, Less Than Jake
Vinnie Fiorello is the drummer and chief lyricist of Less Than Jake, which is, to put it mildly, only one of my absolute favorite bands of my entire freaking life. I’ve enthusiastically consumed Less Than Jake’s music for more than 20 years. I’ve seen them live more than 10 times. And I still can’t believe...
Justin Finesilver has been on my show before. He was Episode 70 where we talked about his 3-D Printing Store. He’s also presented at my nonprofit venture Mile High 100 on behalf of his nonprofit Pawsthetics. We knew each other in college and worked together at the radio station. Yet, in all that time I...
5/9/2018 • 59 minutes, 36 seconds
Ep. 173: Bob Bell – Co-Founder of Food For Thought Denver
Bob Bell is the Co-Founder of Food For Thought Denver, which strives to eliminate weekend hunger for children in the Denver area by providing food PowerSacks, because they believe that no child should go hungry. I had the pleasure of meeting Bob at the second Mile High 100 meeting last November and was immediately thrilled...
5/2/2018 • 49 minutes, 27 seconds
Ep. 172: Dr. Becky Takeda-Tinker – President, CSU Global
Dr. Becky Takeda-Tinker is the President of CSU Global. And she also happens to be one of my favorite people that I’ve met professionally. She was a board member of an organization I served as staff for, and we’ve always had an easy rapport, a similar view of the world, and a similar way of...
4/18/2018 • 0
Ep. 171: Chad Hadersbeck – Co-Frontman of Goodnight Freeman
Chad Hadersbeck is the Co-Frontman of Denver indie rock band Goodnight Freeman. He’s also someone I met in my professional life with whom I immediately hit it off because we’re both working side hustles while building successful careers. It’s strange the way the world will bring you together with folks you didn’t know you needed...
4/11/2018 • 54 minutes, 29 seconds
Ep. 170: Saira Rao – Candidate for Colorado’s 1st Congressional District
Saira Rao is a Democrat candidate for Colorado’s 1st Congressional District. She and her husband Shiv live in Denver with their two children, Lila and Dar, and their dog, Hector. You can find her website, Saira Rao for Congress, here. This is the first time on the podcast I’ve interviewed someone actively running for office,...
Dave Sevick is the Vice President of Marketing & Development for Firefly Autism, Colorado’s premiere autism therapy and behavioral support program. Featuring Applied Behavior Analysis techniques, in the classroom, and in your home. And this is the 4-Year Anniversary of the Jon of All Trades Podcast! Dave is a special guest because we met only about...
3/21/2018 • 59 minutes, 27 seconds
Ep. 168: Capt. Greg Pixley – Denver Fire Department
Captain Greg Pixley is the Public Information Officer and Chief Recruitment Officer for the Denver Fire Department. He’s also worked as a firefighter for the last 25+ years. I’ve actually wanted to talk with a firefighter since before the inception of this show, but kept waiting for a connection to emerge. It wasn’t until I...
3/14/2018 • 0
Ep. 167: Savannah King – Savannah the Balloon Twister
“My dad’s a clown.” – probably everyone at some point in their life, thinking about their own father. Savannah King can tell you what it’s like to grow up when your dad is a literal and professional clown. Owners of Zany Entertainments, the overarching company of which Savannah the Balloon Twister is a part, Savannah’s family has been in the...
Welcome to Jon’s Audio Resume, the Jon of All Trades solo exploration of all the weird ass jobs I’ve had in my life. This series runs in chronological order and here is my tenth job. Job: Administrative Assistant, Colorado Oil & Gas Association Duration: August 2006 – November 2006 Pay: $15/hr Did I get along with my boss? Yes!...
2/21/2018 • 0
Jon’s Audio Resume Vol. 9: Public Speaking Teacher
Welcome to Jon’s Audio Resume, the Jon of All Trades solo exploration of all the weird ass jobs I’ve had in my life. This series runs in chronological order and here is my ninth job. Job: Public Speaking Teacher at Colorado State University Duration: 2004-2006 Pay: Full graduate school tuition, ~$1,100 per month stipend Did I get along...
2/14/2018 • 0
Ep. 119: Patrick Sheridan – SPECIAL RE-POST
This is not the post I wanted to write. This is not the episode I wanted to do. But here we are. Patrick Sheridan passed away yesterday. Here is his memorial fund. Please donate to it. I had interviewed Patrick on December 22, 2016, two days before what he referred to as his “expiration date.”...
2/2/2018 • 0
Jon’s Audio Resume Vol. 8: Lifeguard
Welcome to Jon’s Audio Resume, the Jon of All Trades solo exploration of all the weird ass jobs I’ve had in my life. This series runs in chronological order and here is my eighth job. Job: Lifeguard Duration: Summer of 2004 Pay: $8/hr (I honestly can’t remember, but what I can remember is the pay was pretty crappy)...
1/31/2018 • 0
Jon’s Audio Resume Vol. 7: Alaska
Welcome to Jon’s Audio Resume, the Jon of All Trades solo exploration of all the weird ass jobs I’ve had in my life. This series runs in chronological order and here is my seventh job. Job: Alaska State Fair booth construction and staffer Duration: One week in August 2003 Pay: $1,000 Did I get along with my boss? This...
1/24/2018 • 0
Jon’s Audio Resume Vol. 6: Retail
Welcome to Jon’s Audio Resume, the Jon of All Trades solo exploration of all the weird ass jobs I’ve had in my life. This series runs in chronological order and here is my sixth job. Job: Vehicle accessories salesman and installer Duration: College breaks from summer 2001 – summer 2002 Pay: $8.50/hr. + commission Did I get along...
1/17/2018 • 0
Jon’s Audio Resume Vol. 5: Property Maintenance
Welcome to Jon’s Audio Resume, the Jon of All Trades solo exploration of all the weird ass jobs I’ve had in my life. This series runs in chronological order and here is my fifth job. Job: Property Maintenance Grunt Duration: June – July, 2001 Pay: $10.00/hour Did I get along with my boss? No, he was a fucking...
1/10/2018 • 0
Jon’s Audio Resume Vol. 4: City of Golden
Welcome to Jon’s Audio Resume, the Jon of All Trades solo exploration of all the weird ass jobs I’ve had in my life. This series runs in chronological order and here is my fourth job. Job: Ballfield Worker, City of Golden Duration: May – August, 2000 Pay: $9.00/hour Did I get along with my boss? Yes!...
1/3/2018 • 0
Jon’s Audio Resume Vol. 3: Food Service
Welcome to Jon’s Audio Resume, the Jon of All Trades solo exploration of all the weird ass jobs I’ve had in my life. This series runs in chronological order and here is my third job. Job: Salad Bar Worker, Chart House Duration: November – Decemberr 1999 Pay: $6.50/hour (I think, I honestly can’t remember) Did I...
12/20/2017 • 0
Jon’s Audio Resume Vol. 2: Door-to-door Salesman
Welcome to Jon’s Audio Resume, the Jon of All Trades solo exploration of all the weird ass jobs I’ve had in my life. This series runs in chronological order and here is my second job. Job: Door-to-door salesman Duration: September 1999 Pay: $5/lead Did I get along with my boss? Surprisingly, yes! (An old swim team buddy.) After one...
12/13/2017 • 0
Jon’s Audio Resume Vol. 1: Bindery
Welcome to Jon’s Audio Resume, the Jon of All Trades solo exploration of all the weird ass jobs I’ve had in my life. This series runs in chronological order and we start with my very first job. Job: Bindery worker Duration: May 1998 – August 1998 Pay: $6.50/hr. Did I get along with my boss? No! He was a...
12/6/2017 • 0
Ep. 155: Adam J. Minnick – Director of Photography
Adam J. Minnick is a cinematographer who served as a juror for the 2017 Denver Film Festival. He was also the Director of Photography for Actor Martinez, a movie I first became aware of when I interviewed the film’s directors, Mike Ott and Nathan Silver, two years ago at Denver Film Festival. Adam is a...
11/15/2017 • 0
Ep. 154: Kyle Gass of Tenacious D
It’s Kyle Gass! From Tenacious D! What else do you need me to write here? Just click on the episode and listen to it! Alright, I suppose I should mention that Kyle is here at Denver Film Festival 40 supporting his excellent movie Gnaw, in which he’s terrific. Here’s a brief synopsis: “Jennifer Conrad is...
11/10/2017 • 0
Ep. 153: Andrew Novick – Director, JonBenet’s Tricycle
Andrew Novick is the director of JonBenet’s Tricycle, a documentary premiering at Denver Film Festival 40. Intrigued? I certainly was. Here’s the synopsis: “Andrew Novick – a Mile-High legend as the man who collects almost everything – forges all sorts of emotional connections to the objects he acquires: either memories, curiosity or interest in the...
11/8/2017 • 59 minutes, 34 seconds
Ep. 152: John Brackney – Man About Town
John Brackney is Director of Public Policy & Community Engagement at Webolutions. He’s also the former President & CEO of the South Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce, Arapahoe County Commissioner (Chair in 2000), a veteran of the Army National Guard, and on more boards and a part of more organizations that I can realistically list...
11/1/2017 • 0
Ep. 151: Megan Ranegar – Yelp Denver Community Manager
[toggle title=””]…[/toggle][highlight color=”eg. yellow, black”]…[/highlight] Megan Ranegar is the Community Manager for Yelp Denver. Yelp is one of those weird companies that you use all the time, but whose employees are rarely seen to the average consumer. They have something like 5,000 employees worldwide, but I’m willing to bet before today, most of you had...
10/25/2017 • 0
Ep. 150: Denver Podcast Network Live Launch Showcase
For those of you who missed it on Sunday, October 8 [shakes fist at you], here is the live recording featuring all the shows from the Denver Podcast Network as we discuss everything from pizza to movies to music to comedy and more. You get a nice sample of everyone’s shows, including mine, where I...
10/18/2017 • 0
Ep. 149: JD Lopez – Comedian, Host of Left Hand Right Brain
JD Lopez is a comedian, the host of Left Hand Right Brain, and proud fellow member of the Denver Podcast Network. We met for the first time a few months ago when Paul Karolyi from Changing Denver (which kicked off a new season this week!) decided to round up fellow Denver podcasters and see how...
10/4/2017 • 0
Ep. 148: Ginna Santy and Melanie Ulle – Co-Founders of Women In Kind
Women in Kind focuses on women, their needs in business and in the business of life. As a co-working space located in Northeast Denver, Women in Kind works to identify, to anticipate what women need to be successful at work and integrate those things into the workplace. That means thinking about how to make women’s...
9/27/2017 • 0
Ep. 147: Imam Abdur Rahim Ali – Northeast Denver Islamic Center
Imam Abdur Rahim Ali is the leader of the Northeast Denver Islamic Center. I was introduced to him by Rabbi Adam Morris, whom I had on less than a month ago. These interviews are part of an ongoing periodic examination I do exploring different faith communities, and serve the overall mission of this show by...
9/20/2017 • 0
Ep. 146: Jack Ekstrom – Founder of PolicyWorks America, My Dad
Jack Ekstrom has had an extraordinarily impressive career working in public and government for the oil and natural gas industry. He retired in January of this year, and, like the relentless advocate with an inexhaustible work ethic he is, immediately founded PolicyWorks America. He also happens to be my dad. This show is a real...
9/13/2017 • 0
Ep. 145: Erica Hoffman – Speech Pathologist
Erica Hoffman came into our lives to work with our oldest daughter Grace. She’s a speech pathologist, and right around her second birthday we were worried that she wasn’t talking much, didn’t have many words, and wasn’t progressing properly. So we had her evaluated, it turned out we qualified for services, and Erica started coming...
9/6/2017 • 0
Ep. 144: Gabe Schirm Returns – Writer, Entrepreneur
Gabe Schirm is my longtime buddy dating back to our time together in college radio, and this isn’t the first I’ve had him on the show. He first appeared on Ep. 13 when he was working a normal 8-5 job, and so was I. On that episode, we talked about his founding of Global Gabe...
8/30/2017 • 0
Ep. 143: Rabbi Adam Morris – Temple Micah Denver
Rabbi Adam Morris – Rabbi Mo – has been a rabbi for 23 years, and he’s currently at Temple Micah in Denver. On this week’s show, we talk about how he came to be a rabbi, how the public speaking butterflies have become his friends, what it means to be a part of some of...
8/23/2017 • 0
Ep. 142: Paul Karolyi – Host of Changing Denver Podcast
Paul Karolyi is the host of Changing Denver, The Denver Pizza Podcast, Denverite Now, and the winner of Westword’s 2017 Best Denver Podcast (staff choice). He’s an incredibly talented podcaster, an unparalleled interviewer, and someone I’m proud to have in my orbit as a fellow Denver podcaster. He’s good enough to sit down with me...
8/16/2017 • 0
Ep. 141: Braden Dick – Co-Founder of Mile High 100, Founder of Global Meeting Technologies
Braden Dick is the co-founder of Mile High 100 (along with yours truly), the founder of Global Meeting Technologies, and one of my favorite people and best friends. His career has taken him all over the world, which means I only got to see him once in a blue moon, but he has recently re-located...
8/9/2017 • 0
Ep. 140: R. Alan Brooks – Writer, Podcast Host, Creator of The Burning Metronome
R. Alan Brooks is the creator of The Burning Metronome, a hardcover graphic novel, a supernatural murder mystery where six courageous explorers find themselves trapped in another world, populated by the strangest creatures they’ve ever seen: human beings. He’s also host of MotherF**ker In A Cape, a podcast series featuring informal chats with comic book...
7/26/2017 • 0
Ep. 139: Drew Magary – Author, Columnist for Deadspin and GQ
Drew Magary is the author of The Hike, a book I devoured obscenely quickly given that I was caring for a newborn baby at the time. He’s swinging through Denver during his book tour, and I was lucky enough to chat with him in advance of that. Let’s get that out of the way first:...
7/5/2017 • 55 minutes, 18 seconds
Ep. 138: Brock Berry – Co-Founder and CEO of Adcellerant
Brock Berry is the co-founder and CEO of AdCellerant, a digital advertising and technology company focused on making quality digital marketing accessible to every business. On this week’s show, Brock shares with me the origin story of AdCellerant, his perspective on the progression of digital advertising during his impressive career, the continued evolution of journalism...
6/28/2017 • 0
Ep. 137: Dr. Patty Limerick – Colorado State Historian, Chair, Center for the American West
Dr. Patty Limerick is the Faculty Director and Chair of the Board of the Center of the American West at the University of Colorado, where she is also a Professor of History. Limerick has dedicated her career to bridging the gap between academics and the general public and to demonstrating the benefits of applying historical...
6/21/2017 • 0
Ep. 136: Robin Jennings Palmer – Parenting Extravaganza
Robin Jennings Palmer is the mother of five boys. Yes, five. And yes, she’s probably heard whatever you’re currently thinking about that. So, just for posterity, and because I had originally targeted this episode for Mother’s Day which got derailed because my back decided to stage a revolt against my body (and life), we had...
6/14/2017 • 0
Ep. 135: Grape Expectations – Park Hill Liquor Store
Grape Expectations is my neighborhood liquor store. I’m there more frequently than I’d probably like to admit, but why wouldn’t I be? This store has cultivated an incredibly selection of craft beer, craft spirits, and wines from around the world, all of which is very helpfully provided to you by their extremely knowledgeable and friendly...
6/7/2017 • 0
Ep. 134: Jon Eks Solo – Pain
It’s been a damn month since last I put up an episode. Why? Well, in a word, PAIN. Four Saturdays ago I made the cardinal mistake of lifting my daughter out of her crib and felt something tweak in my back. From there, hot pain knives shot down my sciatic nerves and I ended up...
5/24/2017 • 0
Ep. 133: Eileen Agosta – Independent Filmmaker, TMD Films
Eileen Agosta is an independent filmmaker, the creative force behind TMD Films, works at the Emerging Filmmakers Project and Colorado Independent Women of Film, and is my guest on Ep. 133 of the podcast. On this week’s show we talk about the life of an independent filmmaker, how early dreams of selling her first feature...
4/26/2017 • 0
Ep. 132: Rusty Butler – Reverend, United Methodist Church
Rusty Butler is the Reverend at Arvada United Methodist Church. He’s been a pastor for 22 years, and on this week’s show we talk about how he “got the call” to leave his job as a statistician and go into ministry full time. It’s not as glamorous or as mystic a story as pop culture...
4/19/2017 • 0
Ep. 131: Scott Yates – Entrepreneur, Time Change Abolitionist
Scott Yates is a former journalist, founder of MyTrafficNews.com, Legislative Database, and BlogMutt. He’s also the guy you can thank when he succeeds in ending the stupid time change in this country that screws up your circadian rhythm, messes up your kids, and ultimately has deadly consequences. That’s right… DEADLY! Where can you find out...
4/12/2017 • 53 minutes, 21 seconds
Ep. 130: Brad Swartzwelter – Train Conductor, Union President, Author
Brad Swartzwelter is a train conductor, President of the Sheet Metal, Air, Rail Transit Workers Local 166, and author of Faster Than Jets, a book dedicated to examining high speed travel via maglev trains. On this week’s show, Brad shares with me a charming story of how, while skiing at Winter Park, he saw the...
4/5/2017 • 0
Ep. 129: Jason “Bird” Calloway – Three-Year Anniversary Pt. 3
Jon of All Trades is celebrating its 3-Year Anniversary by re-visiting our first 3 guests and seeing how their lives have changed since this show launched! Our final installment of the 3-Year Anniversary features Jason “Bird” Calloway, who first appeared on Episode 3 of the Jon of All Trades Podcast. I’ve written at length about...
3/15/2017 • 0
Ep. 128: Cindy Sovine-Miller – Three-Year Anniversary Pt. 2
Jon of All Trades is celebrating its 3-Year Anniversary by re-visiting our first 3 guests and seeing how their lives have changed since this show launched! Our second of three episodes features Cindy Sovine-Miller, who first appeared on Episode 2 of the podcast. Cindy spent a good chunk of her career lobbying for the healthcare...
3/15/2017 • 0
Ep. 127: Jeff Julin – Three-Year Anniversary Pt. 1
Jon of All Trades is celebrating its 3-Year Anniversary by re-visiting our first 3 guests and seeing how their lives have changed since this show launched! First up is Jeff Julin, who is the partner of Episode 1 guest Mike Gaughan, both in life and in business. Sadly, Mike passed away in August of 2015,...
3/15/2017 • 0
Ep. 126: Jon Eks Solo – Westword Best of Denver 2017
This week it’s just me once again, and I go completely unfiltered. In a profanity-filled and expletive-laden 30+ minutes, I make the case not only for why you should vote for me in the Westword Readers’ Choice 2017 Best of Denver Awards, but why you should listen to my show at all. Why does this...
3/8/2017 • 0
Ep. 125: Midian Crosby – Monster Makeup FX
Midian Crosby is the founder of Monster Makeup FX, whose mission statement you can find below: “We believe that special effects makeup and in-camera special FX are experiencing a powerful renaissance. We passionately support independent film and video-content production by creating super-realistic practical special FX and special effects makeup for movies, TV shows, commercials, and a...
2/22/2017 • 0
Ep. 124: Tarek Chacra – Founder of Media Dynamics
Tarek Chacra is the founder of Media Dynamics, a Denver-based creative services agency he founded in 1991. Anyone who can start their own business and remain successful for more than 25 years is someone I’m extremely interested in talking to both because that’s impressive on its own, and I want to unlock the secret of...
2/15/2017 • 0
Ep. 123.5: Candid Beer Nerdery
If you’ve ever asked me about my show, you’ll know one of the most common things I’ll tell you about it is that some of the best things I hear happen once the microphones are turned off. So, since Episode 123 ran long anyway, and since we still had a buttload of beer to drink,...
2/10/2017 • 0
Ep. 123: Patrick Combs and Josh Clauss – Certified Cicerones
Patrick Combs is Mad Sensory Scientist for Avery Brewing and is a Certified Cicerone. He’s a self-taught expert in beer’s off-flavors, styles and tasting and began his career by designing an educational program for bars, restaurants and others in the history, service, and nuance of beer. Josh Clauss is also a Certified Cicerone, a beer...
2/8/2017 • 0
Ep. 122: Mia Klosterman – Lead Singer of The Hits
Mia Klosterman is lead singer of the badass all-female Denver rock band The Hits. She’s also an actor, a graduate in theater and psychology from UNC, aspiring National Anthem singer at a Denver Broncos game, and an all-around ray of sunshine. And she’s bringing me back to my interviewing roots! I got my start interviewing...
1/25/2017 • 0
Ep. 121: Nick Gossert – Creator, Booker and Referee at Lucha Libre & Laughs
Nick Gossert is the creator, booker and head referee for Lucha Libre & Laughs. If you’re a fan of both Mexican style lucha libre wrestling and stand-up comedy, this is the show for you. Winner of two prestigious Westword Best of Denver Awards for Best Comedy Night – here’s the writeup for their 2016 award...
1/18/2017 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 2 seconds
Ep. 120: Tony Pigford and Nick Jackson – Boys School of Denver
Nick Jackson and Tony Pigford are the Head of School and Dean of Students, respectively, of The Boys School of Denver. Based on the highly successful instructional model of the GIRLS ATHLETIC LEADERSHIP SCHOOL (GALS) in Denver, The Boys School will provide a small-school learning environment predicated on best practices in gender-based and active learning...
1/11/2017 • 0
Ep. 119: Patrick Sheridan – Filmmaker, Acting Teacher, Cancer Fighter
Patrick Sheridan is the Executive Director and Host of the Emerging Filmmakers Project. He also works with young actors and prepares them for how to act on film. Patrick has also served as a script doctor and done punch up for a number of projects. He’s a prolific, talented and engaged artist. But his primary...
1/4/2017 • 0
Ep. 118: Brad Lucero – Chief Operating Officer, Stout Street Foundation
Brad Lucero is the Chief Operating Officer of The Stout Street Foundation, which provides the necessary services and support in a totally structured therapeutic community environment to assist addicts and alcoholics to help themselves in rehabilitation, recovery, and transition in returning to society as productive and responsible citizens. On this week’s show, Brad shares with...
12/21/2016 • 0
Special Solo Ep: Deft Wins, Cubs Win, Trump Wins
Check out that episode title… 2/3 ain’t bad? Nah, too easy a joke. But that’s what you can expect from this week’s special solo episode. It’s a big week around here for our parent company Deft Communications as we preview a very special happening for the company here on the podcast. I’m not going to...
12/14/2016 • 0
Ep. 117: Avi Bulow – Founder, Bulow Jewelers
(At the time of this recording, Avi worked for Jay Feder Jewelers. He has now founded and opened Bulow Jewelers, which you can find at 910 16th St. Suite 1223, Denver, CO 80202 and on the web at BulowJewelers.com or on Facebook here.) Avi Bulow has grown up around the jewelry business. And although he swore...
11/30/2016 • 58 minutes, 21 seconds
Ep. 116: Jim O’Heir – Actor, Parks and Recreation, Middle Man
Jim O’Heir brought life to Jerry Gergich on Parks and Recreation which ran for 7 seasons and 125 episodes. Since Parks and Recreation is one of my all-time favorite things in the history of the universe, the opportunity to sit down with Jim O’Heir for an hour was an enormous thrill. Just like Jerry, Jim...
11/23/2016 • 58 minutes, 40 seconds
Ep. 115: Lalo Molina and Gregg Barbanell – Director and Subject of Actors of Sound
If you’ve ever watched a movie, a television show, or played a video game, you’ve consumed the art of foley. You may not have appreciated it, but you experienced it nevertheless. Actors of Sound is a documentary about the art of foley. What is that? From footsteps to bone cracks, Foley artists bring films to...
11/17/2016 • 51 minutes, 59 seconds
Ep. 114: Jeremy Stulberg – Producer and Editor of Growing Up Coy
Jeremy Stulberg is the producer and editor of Growing Up Coy, a feature-length documentary about a young Colorado family who engages in a highly publicized legal battle and landmark civil rights case, as they fight for their 6-year-old transgender daughter’s right to use the girls’ bathroom at her elementary school. The film asks a universal...
11/15/2016 • 47 minutes, 39 seconds
Ep. 113: Jeff Grace – Writer and Director of Folk Hero & Funny Guy
Jeff Grace is the writer and director of Folk Hero & Funny Guy, and he kicks off our coverage of the 2016 Denver Film Festival. Here ’s a rundown of the film: “Paul (Alex Karpovsky) and Jason (Wyatt Russell) are old friends who have drifted apart as they’ve reached their 30s. Jason is a good-looking and...
11/9/2016 • 0
Ep. 112: Daniel Ramos – Executive Director of One Colorado, LGBTQ Advocacy Group
Daniel Ramos is the Executive Director of One Colorado. One Colorado is a statewide advocacy organization committed to creating a fair and just Colorado for all people, especially lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) Coloradans and their families. On this week’s show, Daniel shares with me what One Colorado is working on, the progress...
11/2/2016 • 51 minutes, 32 seconds
Ep. 111: Lynn Bartels – CO Secretary of State’s Office, Former Political Reporter Denver Post
Lynn Bartels is one of the most respected political reporters in Colorado. It was a sad day for many of us more than a year ago when she accepted a buyout from the Denver Post and went to work for Colorado Secretary of State Wayne Williams. Fortunately she’s still writing frequently on her blog at...
Jake Gamsky is not a rocket scientist. “I’m actually an aerospace engineer,” he corrected me when I asked if he could be called a rocket scientist. I both appreciated his nuance in the nomenclature of his job, and chuckled at the idea of someone smart enough to turn down the opportunity to be classified as...
10/12/2016 • 0
Ep. 109: Suzi Q. Smith – Slam Poet, Artist, Activist
Suzi Q. Smith is a slam poet, an artist, an activist, the Executive Director of Poetry Slam, Inc., and yet another escapee from the corporate world. And this episode is once again loaded with fascinating insights from across Suzi’s life, her work, her achievement of her childhood dream of becoming “a superstar poet,” her former...
10/5/2016 • 0
Ep. 108: DJ Erin Stereo – DJ, Turntablist, Former 911 Dispatcher
I intended to talk to DJ Erin Stereo about her career and work as a DJ and turntablist – which I did, at quite length too – but I ended up asking her a ton of questions about her former career as a 911 dispatcher. So this episode is like a double shot – you...
9/28/2016 • 0
Special Ep: Jon Eks Solo – Parenting
It’s been awhile since I’ve forced myself to talk into a mic and talk stream-of-consciousness for half an hour, so let’s do that. I went into this week’s episode with only one pre-determined question I wanted to address. It’s a question I get frequently both from parents and norms alike – “Is it harder going...
9/14/2016 • 0
Ep. 107: Scoop Siemsen – KBPI Morning Show Host and Producer
Scoop Siemsen is producer and co-host of Your Morning Show on 106.7 KBPI fm in Denver. He’s also an alumnus of Colorado State University, and former radio star at KCSU fm. And that’s how I met him. Radio is near and dear to my heart. I don’t know what it is about this medium, but...
9/7/2016 • 0
Ep. 106: John Wenzel – Denver Post Reporter, Journalist, Entertainment Columnist
John Wenzel has worked for the Denver Post for 16 years. That’s a long time to be in any one job, and fairly extraordinary in terms of writing for one newspaper. As is standard practice with most journalists, you can find him with bylines at Esquire, Splitsider, Vice, Rolling Stone, and a ton of other...
8/31/2016 • 1 hour, 54 seconds
Ep. 105: Michelle Gutschick – Creator of Shelly Homemaker, Entrepreneur, Craft and DIY Guru
Michelle Gutschick is an entrepreneur who’s created too many small businesses to list here. Her current venture is Shelly Homemaker, featuring “Handcrafted items for homes, and the homemakers that run them.” On this week’s show, Michelle talks not only about the formation of Shelly Homemaker, but an almost unquenchable entrepreneurial spirit – or “itch” as...
8/17/2016 • 0
Ep. 104: Adam St. Pierre – Endurance Athlete and Coach
Adam St. Pierre is the founder of ASTP Coaching, which aims to provide the ultimate experience for athletes looking to improve performance in endurance sports. Adam has over a decade of experience coaching a wide variety of endurance athletes. He has worked with junior athletes, NCAA Division I collegiate athletes, elite professionals, recreational masters, and...
8/10/2016 • 0
Ep. 103: Dr. Jim Gunderson – Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Expert, Founder of GunderFish
Dr. Jim Gunderson, is the founder of Gunderfish, and also serves as its Chief Cognitive Systems Architect (a great title, and one he created for himself). He has a PhD in computer science, and has worked for the last 20+ years in the fields of artificial intelligence and robotics. His newest venture, Gunderfish, aims to...
8/3/2016 • 0
Ep. 102: Justin Baccary – Founder and CEO, Station 26 Brewing
Justin Baccary is the founder and CEO of Station 26 Brewing. This is an episode I’ve been looking forward to because I get to highlight one of my absolute favorite Denver breweries, which just so happens to be situated neatly in my ‘hood. That’s right, let’s go to the Park Hill neighborhood of Denver, and...
7/20/2016 • 58 minutes, 9 seconds
Ep. 101: Holland Darcy – Former Star of MTV’s Road Rules and The Challenge
Holland Darcy, if you were watching MTV as incessantly as I was in the late-90s and early-2000s, you might remember better as Holly Shand. She was a cast member on Road Rules: Latin America, and later came back to compete on three separate challenges. She (and her team) destroyed the Real World team on Real...
7/13/2016 • 0
Ep. 100: Jon Ekstrom – Host and Creator of the Jon of All Trades Podcast
Jon Ekstrom is the host and creator of the Jon of All Trades Podcast. He’s also this week’s guest, as he enlists former guest Simon Lomax, to turn the tables on him and answer questions about himself. Simon was a guest two years ago (Episode 18) and talked about his career as a journalist, an...
7/6/2016 • 0
Ep. 99: Keenan – A Sales Guy
Keenan is A Sales Guy. Enjoy the show! Ok, maybe I should elaborate. Keenan is actually Jim Keenan, who through recognizing the natural tendencies of his friends and identification of a brand opportunity, came to go by just Keenan. He refers to himself as “A Sales Guy Inc’s CEO/President and Chief Antagonist.” Why antagonize your...
