Billy Dees

On this episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, Billy welcomes Stacy Rogers, Republican candidate for Governor of Kansas, for a wide-ranging conversation about the issues shaping the future of Kansas and the nation. Topics include the rapid expansion of AI-driven data centers, property taxes, education reform, government transparency, economic development, and the challenges facing rural communities.Rogers shares why she entered the gubernatorial race, discusses her grassroots campaign that has taken her to nearly every county in Kansas, and explains why she believes voters are looking for servant leadership over career politics. Billy also explores the national impact of artificial intelligence, infrastructure demands, housing affordability, and the importance of preparing students for the future.Whether you're interested in state politics, public policy, AI, or the changing political landscape in America, this thoughtful, long-form interview offers insight into the ideas and debates influencing communities acros

Discover the surprising story behind one of America's oldest—and most misunderstood—forms of entertainment. Billy Dees welcomes author, comedian, actress, and professional ventriloquist April Brucker to discuss her new book, 250 Years of American Ventriloquism: How Ventriloquism Influenced American Culture. Together they explore how ventriloquism shaped radio, television, comedy, politics, and pop culture while uncovering fascinating stories about legendary performers and forgotten pioneers.The conversation also dives into the future of the art form, examining artificial intelligence, digital avatars, and why live performance continues to resonate with audiences. Plus, April's hilarious puppet Mae Wilson joins the fun, proving that a wisecracking dummy can still steal the show. Whether you're interested in entertainment history, comedy, or the evolution of media, this episode delivers plenty of laughs and surprising insights.April Brucker official website http://aprilbrucker.tv/Follow Billy Dees on X https://

On this episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, Billy welcomes author and retired aerospace engineer Jeff Kildow for a fascinating conversation about World War II aviation, military history, and the art of writing historical fiction. Drawing on his career with Lockheed Martin and his passion for preserving history, Kildow shares insights into the remarkable engineering breakthroughs of the era and the inspiration behind his Joel Knight Menace series.The discussion explores iconic wartime aircraft, alternate history, the challenges of accurately portraying the technology of the 1940s, and thoughtful perspectives on some of World War II's most debated events. Whether you're interested in aviation, military history, engineering, or compelling historical thrillers, this episode offers an engaging and thought-provoking conversation.You can find Jeff Kildow on his Amazon Author Page. Jeff's website https://www.jeffkildow.com/More about the episode and links to Jeff on our webiste. https://perfectmediaprods.com/You can f

In this engaging episode, Billy Dees joins host Samantha Wooldrik for a wide-ranging conversation about the evolution of podcasting, the changing media landscape, and the growing challenges facing public discourse. Drawing on decades of experience in audio production, broadcasting, and podcasting, Billy shares his journey from the era of reel-to-reel tape machines and radio commercials to becoming the creator and host of the long-running Billy Dees Podcast.The discussion explores how podcasting transformed from a niche hobby embraced by early internet enthusiasts into one of the most influential forms of modern media. Billy reflects on the rise of independent creators, the arrival of major media personalities in the podcast space, and the opportunities and challenges that came with podcasting's explosive growth. He also emphasizes the importance of production quality, noting that strong audio remains essential as audiences increasingly consume content through high-quality home and automobile sound systems.As

Documentary filmmaker Andrew Linn joins Billy Dees to discuss his film Church and State: Roger Williams and the Founding of Freedom of Religion.The conversation explores the often-misunderstood concept of separation of church and state, the remarkable legacy of Roger Williams, and the historical roots of religious liberty in America. Billy and Andrew also examine the role of faith in public life, the beliefs of the Founding Fathers, free speech, cancel culture, and the challenges of civil discourse in today's polarized society.A thought-provoking discussion on history, religion, and the principles that continue to shape the American experience.This is the link to the Church and State Documentary Website where people can find several different ways to stream the Documentary and learn more info about the film.https://churchandstatedoc.com/You can find Billy Dees on X https://x.com/BillyDees and Substack https://substack.com/@billydees

Victoria Pelletier joins Billy Dees for an inspiring conversation about resilience, leadership, and turning adversity into opportunity. From overcoming a difficult childhood to becoming a successful corporate executive, bestselling author, and renowned speaker, Victoria shares the experiences that shaped her approach to business and life.The discussion explores authentic leadership, personal branding, diversity of thought, the impact of AI on the workplace, and why discipline and intentional action matter more than empty positivity. An insightful episode filled with practical wisdom for leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone striving to reach their full potential.Victoria is an in demand public speaker on a variety of business, culture and motivational topics - please head over to her website to read her articles, order a copy of her books or book her for speaking engagements. https://victoria-pelletier.com/You can follow Billy Dees on X https://x.com/BillyDees

In this episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, Billy sits down with author Sidney Pines, whose journey from political disengagement to conservative commentator inspired her bestselling Patriot Diary series. Pines describes herself as an "everyday American" who began noticing what she believed were inconsistencies in news coverage and government narratives during 2020. What started as personal research and journal entries for future generations eventually evolved into a published book series, beginning with Awakening: A Patriot's Diary of American Deception and continuing with the recently released Golden Age Rising.Throughout the conversation, Pines reflects on her political awakening and discusses how many Americans who previously paid little attention to politics found themselves drawn into national debates over the past several years. She argues that growing distrust in traditional institutions, media organizations, and government agencies has fueled interest in topics often labeled as conspiracy theories. Pin

Retired Air Force veteran, former political commentator, and author Kat Anderson joins Billy Dees for a wide-ranging conversation about storytelling, creativity, and the mysteries that captivate us. Anderson discusses her debut paranormal noir novel, No Rest for the Wicked, and how her military experiences, fascination with mythology, and interest in the unexplained helped shape its unique blend of detective fiction, conspiracy, and supernatural intrigue.The conversation explores everything from UFOs and conspiracy theories to time, memory, and the challenges of reinventing yourself after a major life transition. Anderson also shares insights from her years in political commentary and offers her perspective on today's rapidly changing media landscape.If you enjoy thoughtful discussions about writing, politics, mystery, and the human search for answers, this is an episode you won't want to miss.Visit Kat Anderson's website https://www.katandersonwrites.com/Follow her on X @KatAWriter https://x.com/KatAWriterFo

On this episode of the Billy Dees Podcast, Billy welcomes filmmaker and frequent co-host Sara Alessandrini for a wide-ranging conversation about life in Los Angeles, the city’s mayoral race, homelessness, crime, political polarization, and the changing culture of America’s major cities.Drawing from her firsthand experience living and working in Los Angeles for more than a decade, Sara offers an on-the-ground perspective rarely heard in mainstream political commentary. From managing historic Hollywood properties to navigating homelessness encampments, public safety concerns, and the realities of city life, she shares stories that paint a vivid picture of a city struggling with identity, infrastructure, and leadership.Billy and Sara also explore the broader political climate surrounding California and New York, discussing figures like Gavin Newsom, Karen Bass, and Los Angeles mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt. Their conversation examines how progressive politics, public policy, and cultural shifts are shaping Ame

On this episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, Billy sits down with Dr. Albert Bramante, author of Rise Above the Script, for a compelling conversation about self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and the psychology of performance. Drawing from his unique background as both a talent agent and psychologist, Bramante explains why so many creative people unknowingly sabotage their own success and how they can overcome those mental roadblocks.The discussion also explores toxic positivity, fear, discipline, confidence-building, and the growing influence of AI on creativity and human connection. Whether you’re a performer, entrepreneur, public speaker, or simply someone trying to push past fear and uncertainty, this episode offers practical insight and thought-provoking commentary.Dr. Albert Bramante’s book, Rise Above the Script: Confronting Self-Doubt and Mastering Self-Sabotage for Performing Artists, is available on Amazon in print, ebook, and audiobook formats. You can also connect with him through his website and LinkedI

Originally released October 26, 2025. In this commentary-driven episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, host Billy Dees takes a practical and entertaining look at one of the most persistent conspiracy theories of modern times: the claim that the Apollo moon landings were faked. Rather than relying on overly technical explanations or dense scientific arguments, Billy approaches the topic from a common-sense perspective, speaking directly to listeners who may be exhausted by the growing popularity of moon landing skepticism on social media and in everyday conversation. The episode blends history, humor, cultural commentary, and straightforward reasoning into an accessible discussion designed for everyday listeners.Throughout the podcast, Billy explores why certain achievements in human history — from the Egyptian pyramids to the Apollo missions — tend to attract myths, speculation, and supernatural explanations. He argues that society often transforms extraordinary accomplishments into legends that seem “too incredi

In this episode, Billy Dees welcomes author and hospice specialist Nancy Jasin Ensley for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation. Nancy shares how her experiences in healthcare and end-of-life care have shaped her perspective on life, storytelling, and human connection.The discussion explores her journey as a multi-genre writer, the inspiration behind her books like The Tire Swing, and how real-life moments—both difficult and uplifting—inform her work. Nancy also offers insight into the creative process, discipline in writing, and the deeper themes of resilience, forgiveness, and meaning that run through her stories.It’s an engaging episode that blends personal experience, creativity, and reflection on what truly matters.Find out more about Nancy on her website https://nancyjasinensley.com/Follow Billy Dees on X https://x.com/BillyDees

Billy Dees sits down with Nicole Nathern-Hedrick, a growing voice on TikTok known for her commentary on faith, culture, and current events. Drawing from her background in the U.S. Army, Nicole shares how her experiences shaped her worldview and led her to speak out on today’s most pressing issues.The conversation explores the power of language, media influence, and the increasing polarization in society. Nicole also discusses her concept of “thought reform” and how emotional messaging can shape public perception and behavior.Blending insight with practical advice, this episode challenges listeners to think critically, stay grounded in heated discussions, and engage more thoughtfully in an ever-changing cultural landscape.Follow Nicole Nathern-Hedrick on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@nicole_nathern_hedrickFollow Billy Dees on X https://x.com/BillyDees

What’s it really like working behind the scenes in Hollywood? In this episode, Billy Dees is joined by Marsha Scarbrough, a former assistant director with nearly 20 years of experience in the film industry. From long days on set to managing logistics for major productions, Marsha shares what it takes to keep a movie running—and what audiences never see.She also reflects on working with well-known actors and directors, offering candid insight into the personalities, pressures, and professionalism that shape life on set. Along the way, Marsha shares stories from both the highlights and challenges of her career, giving listeners an honest look at the realities of Hollywood.The conversation also explores how the industry is changing—from the rise of global filming locations and streaming platforms to the growing influence of AI. If you’re curious about filmmaking, storytelling, or the future of entertainment, this episode delivers a compelling behind-the-scenes perspective.Subscribe to Marsha here on Substack htt

In this thought-provoking episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, Billy welcomes speculative fiction author Diana Colleen for a wide-ranging discussion that blends storytelling, philosophy, and current social issues. At the heart of the conversation is Colleen’s debut novel, They Could Be Saviors, a book built on a bold and provocative premise: what if saving the planet required confronting the immense power of billionaires? From the outset, the episode sets the tone for an open dialogue—one where differing viewpoints are not only acknowledged but explored with curiosity and respect.A central theme of the discussion is the role of speculative fiction as more than just entertainment. Colleen explains that the genre—encompassing science fiction, dystopian narratives, and climate fiction (“cli-fi”)—is rooted in “what if” questions that challenge readers to reimagine the future. Rather than focusing solely on bleak, dystopian outcomes, she advocates for stories that offer hope and agency. In her view, the narratives w

In this episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, host Billy Dees sits down with Tom Joseph, founder of America’s Main Street Party, to explore an ambitious and unconventional idea: a “moneyless” nominating system for congressional candidates. At a time when public trust in political institutions is strained and campaign spending continues to dominate elections, Joseph presents a model designed to shift power away from wealthy donors and party elites, placing it directly into the hands of voters.At the core of Joseph’s proposal is a competition-style primary process that eliminates campaign spending altogether. Candidates enter by earning grassroots support from constituents rather than financial backing, and they advance through multiple rounds based on public approval. The system relies on equal access to a shared digital platform, where candidates present their positions using the same amount of space, time, and visibility. By standardizing exposure and removing financial advantages, Joseph argues that voters can

This episode of the podcast features a lively and wide-ranging conversation between Billy Dees and fantasy author, martial artist, and cosplayer Danielle M. Orsino. The discussion begins with Orsino’s unconventional journey into writing, sparked by storytelling sessions with a patient undergoing medical treatment. From those humble beginnings, she developed her Legacies of Light and Dark series, building a creative career that blends instinctive storytelling with immersive character development. Her path highlights a recurring theme throughout the episode: creativity doesn’t always follow a traditional or “trained” route, and sometimes the most compelling stories emerge organically.As the conversation unfolds, Orsino shares how her background in martial arts and cosplay deeply influences her writing process. She describes storytelling as a physical and emotional experience—often acting out scenes, embodying characters, and even using cosplay to better understand their personalities. This multidisciplinary app

This episode of The Billy Dees Podcast featuring Billy Dees and Lorie Kleiner Eckert centers on personal growth, resilience, and redefining what it means to live a fulfilling life. The conversation is anchored around Eckert’s book Chai on Life, which blends storytelling with practical life lessons drawn from her own experiences. Rather than offering abstract theories, she emphasizes “everyday wisdom”—simple, relatable insights that encourage listeners to find meaning in ordinary moments, embrace gratitude, and let go of the pressure to be perfect.  A major theme throughout the discussion is the rejection of perfectionism in favor of a more balanced, compassionate approach to life. Eckert introduces the idea that “good enough” can often be exactly what’s needed, depending on the situation. Through examples ranging from parenting to creative work, she argues that constantly striving for perfection can lead to burnout and missed opportunities, while accepting limitations can lead to greater productivity and peac

This live episode (Mar 19, 2026, 8:00pm EST) of The Billy Dees Podcast brings together host Billy Dees, filmmaker and commentator Sara Alessandrini, and podcaster Sam Wooldrik for a wide-ranging, unscripted discussion that reflects the fast-moving and often chaotic nature of today’s media and political landscape. The conversation moves fluidly across major global and domestic issues—including tensions with Iran, immigration policy, and the ongoing intrigue surrounding the Epstein case—while also examining how these topics are shaped, distorted, and amplified by modern media and the podcasting space itself. At its core, the episode explores how public discourse has become increasingly polarized, emotional, and, at times, disconnected from nuance or reality. Throughout the discussion, each guest brings a distinct perspective shaped by their background and experience. Alessandrini offers an international lens, emphasizing the complexity of global events and the importance of understanding cultural context, while

In this episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, host Billy Dees welcomes returning guest Sara Alessandrini for a wide-ranging discussion that blends media analysis, politics, and cultural perspective. Alessandrini—an accomplished commentator and filmmaker—joins the program to discuss her work and recent writing, including a Substack essay examining the political messaging and policy contradictions surrounding New York City politics. The conversation offers listeners both analysis and context, particularly for those trying to understand the intersection of media narratives and political branding.A key focus of the discussion is Alessandrini’s documentary, This Is What New Yorkers Say, a multi-part project that explores the intense media cycle surrounding former New York governor Andrew Cuomo. The series examines how the media helped elevate Cuomo during the early days of the pandemic before later turning sharply critical. Dees and Alessandrini reflect on how this rise-and-fall dynamic mirrors broader trends in mode