My Most Recent Radio Appearance

Enjoy!

Cruising Around the Internet

As you can see, I haven't been keeping out of trouble; in fact, there are several really cool opportunities where my name's been out in the spotlight.

I'm really proud of this podcast interview for Working Class Creatives.  It's one of the more in-depth interviews I've given as a writer....and I'm really proud that I participated.

I've also hit a semi-hot streak on Chicago Now's One Cause At A Time, and in that spirit, here are two posts that suggest that fear and hope are the same sides of the coin.

Special thanks to pal Brendan for a link to my Amazon page in his review of a pulp-era biography. 

If you follow my writings on I Hear of Sherlock, you have probably read this already...but if you haven't, here's my review of Adam Lance Garcia's Sherlock Holmes/classic pulp pastiche The Heir Apparent. And yes, it's that good.

On the professional front, you can find my Twitter contributions to an earlier edition of Sproutchat 

Oh, did I mention that I was in this collection of academic writing? Twice? Well, now you know...

Finally, if you're looking to see me in a professional capacity, I will be coworking out of Second City tomorrow. Seriously.

Shameless Self-Promotion: WORKING CLASS CREATIVES Podcast

Recently, I was fortunate enough to make a guest appearance on the Working Class Creatives podcast. Here's a snippet:


Want to hear more? Here's the direct link.

If It's Sunday, It Must Be a Blogaround

Well, things are perking up this Fourth of July weekend - I'm gearing up for a one week work assignment while putting another freelance project on hold; working on finishing a comic script and will be starting a short story due in August for later publication....

....not complaining, mind you, but things are keeping me active.

However, I'm not so busy as to avoid my usual monthly summary of other Internet goings on, mostly in an effort to keep my search rankings clean and, more importantly, provide content for the blog.

As you all know, my most recent story for Pro Se Productions was published in their Pulpternative anthology. If you're considering purchasing the book, why not take the time and purchase one of my other writings via Amazon? Or even subscribe to my Facebook author's page?

(You can even read a sample of my story via Smashwords - formatting gets a little glitchy, but worth checking out)

Hey, look - one of my Flickr photos was cited in this recent article. I'm flattered!

Speaking of other writing, I've managed to highlight a great resource for nonprofits for Chicago Now's One Cause At A Time, and my CompleteSet piece made it to Den of Geek. Great to be mastering the art of online content!

Finally, in podcasting news, thanks to both Art Sippo and Matt Peters for featuring me on their podcasts. Listen to my talk with Art here, and my conversation with Matt here; finally, via YouTube, the latest episode of Zone 4: 

This Past Month in Online Shenanigans

One of the disadvantages to running my own freelance marketing consultancy is that I often have less time for blogging/writing/etc. Thankfully, I've been able to complete some long-standing personal projects, meaning more leisure and writing time. But as always, here's my monthly summary of various online appearances.

First, I have been busy blogging for Chicago Now's One Cause At A Time, resulting in a recent appearance at the Chicago State of Innovation Conference. Here are some perspectives from the conference for your reading pleasure.

This past week, I recorded a podcast interview with Art Sippo for his pulp-oriented Art's Reviews podcast. (We focused on many of my pulp writing efforts, including Black Bat Mystery - Volume 3 and Dreamer's Syndrome: New World Navigation). Thanks to my involvement with the Black Bat, I've also discovered a great fan site around the character. 

Speaking of podcasts, I was part of a "Fantasy Draft Crew" panel at DePaul University's Celebration of Star Trek. You can listen to the panel via this episode of The Televerse.

Special thanks to Andrew Salmon for the opportunity to review his Fight Card entry Sherlock Holmes: A Congression of Pallbearers  for I Hear of Sherlock. 

Finally, a new place where I'll be writing - I'm doing to be contributing to CompleteSet thanks to Chuck Moore (formerly of Comic Related, now of CompleteSet and The Charlie Tonic Hour). And of course, my first article....is Doctor Who related. 

Your Pre-Doctor Who Series Premiere Blogaround

Yes, tomorrow I will be hosting a live view of the Doctor Who Series 9 Premiere; but until then, here's a listing of various online shenanigans. (All in an effort to maintain "proper reputation management", as the kids say...

But first, via Sean Taylor's blog, my thoughts on writing great mysteries. And with several projects forthcoming....it's very timely indeed.

And on the Chicago Now front....I'm working on two really big posts, but for now, here's a profile of ChariPick, a really cool Chicago startup.

Things are moving along with the Chicago TARDIS Charity Auction, but in an effort to drive interest and traffic, please check out this recent item for the Chicago Nerd Social Club website. (And if you would like to meet me in person, check out the joint meetup with Chicago Doctor Who Meetup on September 22nd).

Finally, I was proud to have been name-checked on both Reality Bomb and Radio Free Skaro....although aside to RFS host Steven - please tell me where you see a few extra letters in my last name?

Best comment wins a prize.

Are You My MUMMY ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS?

(Warning: This post contains some extremely fannish arguments and pedantry. I'm also going to avoid spoilers, only because I don't think my argument is supported by my revealing plot points. Proceed at your own peril)

To be honest, I'm not quite sure how I feel about Mummy On the Orient Express.

On the one hand, it's a good looking episode, from the set design to the special effects. Even the countdown clock in the lower left corner looks good. Some clever touches - a cigarette case full of jelly babies, the best use of the "Are You My Mummy?" line from 2005 - add to the overall feel. If this were a serious romp, it would be even more enjoyable....

But after Kill the Moon....well, it left a bit of a taste in my mouth. It seemed a little too eager to say "let's-not-explore-the-repercussions-too-closely". I also think - and this is where the fannish pedantry comes in - that I can better explain why I feel the way I do.

In their review of Kill the Moon, the Verity podcast (or more accurately, one host who I happen to kind-of sort-of know in real life), put forth the argument that Capaldi's Doctor is the production team's effort reflects an effort to take on the New Adventures Doctor. For those not in the know - after the original series ended in 1989, Virgin Books released a novel series focused on the Seventh Doctor with "adventures too deep and too broad for the small screen." In this series, the Seventh Doctor was viewed less as benevolent alien fighting monsters and much more of a distant, almost godlike figure. One who continually drifted towards an attitude that the ends justify the means. And the New Adventures Doctor had a frayed relationship with his companions, who would consistenly remind him - a non-human - that people have value. (Yes, this is a very simplified explanation, but you might want to consider listening
to the Doctor Who Book Club podcast as they provide insight into some of the New Adventures).

My experience with the New Adventures is limited - I did read some of the books (and have several as ebooks) and the only one I really enjoyed was Paul Cornell's Human Nature. (Trust me, it's just as good as the Human Nature/Family of Blood two-parter in Series Three). I don't need the Doctor to always be on the side of right - or even on the "right" side - but I think the Doctor works best when making moral choices, including those which the audience might not agree with. Thankfully, Mummy on the Orient Express clarifies it somewhat - although there is a sense that this Doctor is being softened (after all, I still maintain the arc of this series is whether the Doctor determines whether he himself is a "good man"), there were too many bits that felt....well, shoehorned an inappropriate. The end result is a Doctor who says, in essence, "Yes, I'm a jerk, but all that stuff that happened before - doesn't matter, because I'm going to be a jerk until I decide otherwise."

The return of the "soldier theme". The "Is that what you would like to believe?" moment. A lie that is told that really doesn't need to be told. The nod-and-wink "Bechdel test" moment.

I don't mind romps that turn dark - I actually kind of like Dinosaurs On a Spaceship - but Mummy on the Orient Express seems a bit of a cheat. It seems like it's trying to both darken the Doctor and excuse his behavior. I'm willing to stay on - after all, the return of a non-split season means that the overall arc needs to play out fully - but this is going to be one of those "maybe in the future, I'll like this episode a lot more than I do".

Because right now, I don't.

I Know Cool People - Mike Luoma (Update!)

Every once in awhile, I like to give the heads-up on some cool things that my online (and offline) friends are doing. So when fellow Zone 4 colleague Mike Luoma (host of Glow in the Dark Radio) touched base with me recently, I was more than happy to oblige.

Three of his most recent books are now available via the Comixology app, so you can access them via your iPads, Android Tablets, smartphones, and other such devices.

And what books they are! I was fortunate enough to review them in the past (thanks to complimentary review copies - obligatory disclosure), so I can honestly say that these books are definitely worth your time.

First comes Good Samaritan: Unto Dust, an extremely gripping tale of the spiritual and the superheroic, and wouldn't be out of place, say, as part of Image Comics.

Next we have The Adventures of Alibi Jones, featuring Mike's flagship character. It's gripping, smart space opera and quite definitely worth your attention.

Finally, there's Introducing RED HOT!, a really good tale of early superheroics with a great twist.

All three of these books are really good reads....and in my Red Hot review, I dared Mike to actually write a lousy book. This time around, I'm challenging you, dear reader, to drop a book you dislike and pick up one - or all - of these issues.

Now, you have no excuse not to do so.

Too Much To Do, Too Little Time.....

This has been a very busy week - filled with job interviews, applications, continuing outreach for Chicago TARDIS....but I have managed to keep my hand in several extracurricular affairs for your reading and listening pleasure.

First, on the podcast front - not only do you have a new episode of Zone 4, but I also made an appearance on pal JB's Who 37 podcast where we discussed the recently found Troughton episodes, mocked other missing episodes, and well....just give it a listen, will you?

Plus, not only can you read my Chicago Now blog focused on tech & the social good, but you can follow it on Facebook - go ahead and like https://www.facebook.com/OneCauseAtATimeCNow if you wish.
And now, back to the grindstone.....

This Week's Online Shenanigans (With Bonus Pulp Review!)

(Note: as always, a complimentary electronic copy of Shadow Legion was provided for review purposes. My views are my own).

This past week, I had the opportunity to interview Thomas Deja, one of the co-hosts of Better In the Dark (a must-hear movie and pop culture podcast) as part of this week's Zone 4 episode. We focused on his novel Shadow Legion: New Roads to Hell, a great Golden Age-era superhero tale in sparkling prose....

....which I enjoyed immensely. Much like Adventures of Lazarus Gray, this is a very pleasant read and a great alternative to the less-than-stellar work other companies are putting out. It's a great mix of Golden Age superheroics and supernatural elements, and is an outstanding debut. Definitely worth reading.

I also had the opportunity to guest on pal JB's Who 37 podcast and discuss the Chicago TARDIS Charity Auction to benefit the Northern Illinois Food Bank. If you're interested in making a donation, please fill out this convenient online form, and e-mail me at auction@chicagotardis.com if you have questions and/or you would like some help in promoting the auction. (No, I can't hook you up with passes, but you've purchased them already, right?)

Speaking of Who-related goodness, check out both of these posts for Chicago Nerd Social Club. Oh, and I have a job interview on Monday - wish me luck!

For Your Viewing & Listening Pleasure - Zone 4

I've been busy prepping for a big interview next week (as well as various other projects), so this week, thanks to pal Brant - the Zone 4 podcast in YouTube form! Enjoy!

Bagman, Batman, and Books

I love it when things begin coming together: had a couple of really good interviews, possibly leading to paid full time and/or freelance work. (Especially since two phone interviews have now turned into an in-person meet-the-team interview, complete with paperwork!) Not complaining - still in it to win it.

But I am glad that one of the many side projects I worked on is available for purchase. When pal Ron asked me to to assist in editing The Bagman Vs. The World's Fair for Airship 27 Productions, I thought it would be a great chance for me to develop some other professional skills....but I have to admit that it was a challenge, because B. Chris Bell does a great job of writing. So please, click on the title and order this book. (If you approach me with a copy and ask nicely, I'll sign it; if you approach me with it on an Android Tablet, I'll...steal the tablet. Honest).

Also, just a bit of a warning on this week's episode of Zone 4 - there's plenty of offensive discussion, most notably around Ben Affleck. Also, some profanity. But mostly, it's offensive conversation around Ben Affleck, and we also make some pointed remarks towards Mark Waid. Just sayin'.

(And I'm also proud that, even in the midst of my own burgeoning writing career, I have a personal best - I've made the almanac of super networking articles!) And hopefully, my midlife renaissance will be in full bloom, or something.

Gradually Approaching Normal

Right now, my life seems to be moving into a higher gear...and gradually approaching something resembling "normal".

I've seen a slight uptick in job interviews and positive responses - most of the interviews are phone interviews, and the response time is shortening between resume submission and time scheduled. (It's also a nice change to not have minimal response...then get chastised when I follow up). That, plus an editing project for Airship 27 (I'll let you guys know when it's available for sale) has kept me a bit busy.

One side-effect is that, right now, I'm missing Dax, who passed three months ago. It's not the overwhelming grief of losing her, or even a pang of wanting to adopt again to fill the void (collecting cats the way that some of my friends collect spouses) - it's that I want her back, as if she were merely lost and left outside rather than no longer amongst the living. Grief is tricky, and I'm handling it well....but when it comes to another kitty, it's going to be awhile.

You definitely want to check out this week's edition of Zone 4 (as well as a previous edition which received a spotlight this week), as well as another post in One Cause At A Time.

Have plenty to work towards in the next few days - finishing draft one of a story due in October; prepping for a November convention; and general networking/job search activities. But all in all, starting to feel a little more human....and that's a good thing.

Your Award-Winning Moment of Zen

As you can see, this newly-created social media training for non-profits has earned me kudos from Netsquared. Unlike others, I don't hesitate when it comes to building communities - I move boldly forward!

But in other online writing, I recently completed a post for One Cause At A Time focusing on a great organization that....well, I'll let you read for yourself. It's one of the many times that I get to take some pride in writing about - as well as work in - the non-profit sphere.

In other news, here's a double dose of Comic Related/Zone 4 goodness: one focuses on missing episodes of Doctor Who; the other features a nice verbal smackdown of a recent convention. Both are definitely worth checking out.

Gearing Up For A Who-Centric Week

Courtesy BBC Home Entertainment

Here it is, my friends - my weekly summary of various comings and goings in my life, focusing on cool online activities.

I'm gearing up for a big party/screening with the organizers of Geek Bar, which is proving to be a great venue/concept. If you're interested in joining me on Monday night, here are the particulars via Chicago Nerd Social Club.

And speaking of Chicago Nerds, you might want to also check out my recent review of the Green Death: Special Edition DVD release. As always, I would like to thank the great people at BBC Home Entertainment for the opportunity to review some great releases.

And finally, are DC Comics only for 45 year olds? Dan Didio allegedly made this comment to Paul Pope, and Brant, Ron, John and I discuss this deeply profound psychological and philosophical conundrum in the latest episode of the Zone 4 podcast. 

Finally, most of this weekend will be spent avoiding Wizard World, which is somewhat of a shame. Unfortunately, I'm not quite feeling like attending an event that feels like a flea market....but that may be just me.

This Week's Shenaniganisms....

That's right - unlike the guy with my old domain, here are some new, unique, non commercial-type posts focusing on my online activities. (Thankfully, I had an explosion of potential job opportunities, so I've been busy focusing on those rather than...well, goofing off)

First, there's the latest episode of Zone 4, in which we discuss news coming out of San Diego. And if so inclined, please like us on Facebook - we'll not only shout you out, it will give us something more meaningful to talk about.

(And to answer your question - no Wizard World this year. Not due to cost, but if I want to visit a pop culture flea market laced with testosterone, I'll just head to the burbs.)

On a slightly different note, I was recently quoted in this article on Doctor Who fan music. Always good to help out a great show...

...and finally, via Chicago Now, some tips on professional networking. Now that I'm back into the swing of things, it's good to be able to share some hard-earned advice.

What Evil Lurks: Rediscovering the Pulp SHADOW

It's all Barry Reese's fault.

I've been listening quite a bit to his Shadow Fan podcast, focusing on the best known pulp character - possibly, one of the first true multimedia characters....and have been reacquainting myself on pulp reprints of The Shadow.

Now, in all honesty, I know the Shadow mostly through the old radio series - guns a-blazing, discovering all sorts of mystery and intrigue, almost like a traditional superhero. But the pulp Shadow? Knight and day.

The pulp Shadow is more....well, he's more Jim Phelps than Bruce Wayne - organizing a group of operatives who do most of the ground work, and then the Shadow comes out at the end to make sure that the fruit of the weed of crime is most bitter.

(Some of you will take exception to what I have just said - I'm new to the pulp Shadow. Don't judge me)

But the Shadow in pulp form is a wonder to behold....and easily available for purchase.

Trust me, it's a way to learn about the history of pop culture....and gain a different perspective on a well-known character.

Soft End to a Hard Week

Things have been....well, this week started a bit dramatically.

First, there's no more "potential plus one". There had been a candidate (which I left off the blog because, well, you read this blog for snarky comments about comics and popular culture, not romance), but it's not happening.

In addition, Mom's cat Smokey passed on Monday. These things are rarely easy to talk about, but at the very least, he passed with a minimum of pain.

In happier news, had a promising phone screen that led to scheduling a potentially promising phone interview on Monday, so my weekend will be spent prepping for that. But don't let that stop you from participating in the Hire Me, Pal! Initiative - for more information, visit http://bit.ly/HireMePal

Finally, there's this week's Zone 4, where we talk about a variety of news items, and I chew out one of my co-hosts for disrespecting a comic character. Meaning - I'm starting to slowly, but surely, get back to a somewhat normal mode of operating.

But enough of my blogging - I have some DVDs to watch thanks to BBC Home Entertainment. (Which will lead to, obviously, more blogging)

Obligatory Note Excusing Absence

The past week has been a wee bit brutal - fighting off a major cold, being rejected after a great interview for a potential work gig, and....well, you it gets absurd when a recruiter asks you if you would be willing to buy a car so they can fill a position the far suburbs.

Yes, my life is stressful and hectic. Yes, I'm continuing the job search. If you know of a great position in the Chicago area, please let me know via Linked In.

But enough personal drama - I'm really proud that this week, I (along with Brant, Ron, and John) had the opportunity to interview Dirk Manning about his new book Write or Wrong for the Zone 4 podcast. I'm especially proud of the job I've done in interviewing him (and yes, I did take the lead, having thoroughly read the book from cover to cover).

So I'll try to keep you guys updated on all the cool stuff I'm doing, but please understand - I'm not turning this blog into a whine fest about working. I'm sure that someone will take me on, and I'm hoping to hear about some freelance work soon.

But my Linked In profile's there if you're interested.

Zone 4's 200th Episode (In Case You Missed Friday)

Here's the video, courtesy YouTube:


And the audio-only version is here