Shows
The Simple Charity PodcastReflections on Stewardship of Stuff, Food, and WealthWhat do thrifting, composting, and philanthropy have in common? One theme that may tie these three together is the idea of "stewardship." How do we live when we realize that God, not us, is the true owner of all we have? What does it actually mean to steward what we possess?In this episode, we dive deep into thrifting, composting, and philanthropy with Tony Whitter, a Simple Charity philanthropic advisor and the CEO of Compost Collective KC and previous CEO of Blessings Abound, a regional thrift store that granted millions of dollars to local nonprofits.
2026-04-291h 11The Simple Charity PodcastBiblical “Love” Might Not Mean What You Think“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind" and "Love your neighbor as yourself.”These are the commands that Jesus says are most essential. But what does the word "love" mean in the original languages and context of the Bible?Kevin Grasso is a biblical languages scholar and the founder of Biblingo. In this episode, we discuss these two biblical commands in the old and new testaments.Learn more about Biblingo at www.biblingo.com.
2026-04-151h 16The Simple Charity PodcastCan “The Most Racist County in America” Become a County of Love?In 1912, 100% of the black residents of Forsyth County, Georgia were forcibly expelled from their land. Durwood Snead is one of the founders of the Forsyth Descendants Scholarship, which supports descendants of black residents from Forsyth County to get a college education. Join us for a conversation about racism, history, truth, and love.Learn more at the website for the Forsyth Descendants Scholarship: https://forsythscholarship.org/You can also learn more in Patrick Phillips' book Blood at the Root or in the podcast 1912: The Forsyth County Expulsion and Its Aftermath.
2026-04-0857 minThe Simple Charity PodcastThis Ministry is Building the Church in Lebanon During the WarSouzan and Tony Ghareeb started Shining Hope International to minister the gospel, care for physical needs, and serve the people in their home country of Lebanon. Even as war has broken out in the southern portion of the country and the suburbs of Beirut, Shining Hope continues to bring the light of Jesus to Lebanon. Learn more about their ministry here: https://shininghopeinternational.org/And consider making a gift to support their work during this difficult time.
2026-04-0155 minThe Simple Charity PodcastLearning from the Global Church and the Value of Short-term MissionsManna Worldwide has projects in over 40 countries around the world and hosts many short-term mission trips every year. Learn more at: www.mannaworldwide.comCraig Alsup is the Associate Director for Asia for Manna Worldwide. In this wide-ranging conversation, he shares what we can learn from the global church, the value (and limitations) of short-term missions, and how to care well for vulnerable children.
2026-03-261h 01The Simple Charity PodcastThe Story of Camp HighlandLearn more about Highland Ministries: www.highlandministries.comBill Chapman loves camp. For the past 33 years, he's been building Camp Highland and, now, Highland Ministries, creating spaces for thousands of kids to have TAG (Time Alone with God) every year. Listen to the story of how Camp Highland became what it is today and why getting away and spending alone time with God can be transformational.
2026-03-181h 01The Simple Charity PodcastWhy the Stigma from HIV/AIDS is DeadlyLearn more about Untold at www.untold.org.Untold is a global nonprofit that empowers HIV+ people to live a life beyond AIDS. Molly Heacock has worked at Untold for 13 years and will become the next CEO in April 2026. She suggests that because HIV medication is effective and widespread, stigma has become more deadly than the virus itself, as social marginalization discourages medication adherence. She explains the history of the epidemic, the current status of PEPFAR, and what Jesus teaches us about loving people with stigmatized medical conditions.
2026-03-111h 03The Simple Charity PodcastThe Kingdom Impact of Christian Higher EducationDr. Stacy Hall is a business professor at Truett McConnell University, a private baptist college in Georgia. What impact does it have on the Kingdom of God to invest in the Christian formation of the next generation? A significant amount of philanthropy goes to higher education, and some of the most sophisticated fundraising efforts in the country are connected to universities, especially large, wealthy, secular universities. How does giving to Christian higher education make a Kingdom impact?Stacy also shares much of his own faith journey and a parallel journey of generosity. Learn more about...
2026-03-041h 03The Simple Charity PodcastThe Wisdom of GenerosityChris Gabriel is a wealth manager and the author of WISE Generosity. In this episode, Chris shares about the wisdom of wealthy families who choose to give generously and the wisdom of financial advisors who encourage that generosity. But then, the conversation goes deeper, exploring the call to radical generosity and the role of developing virtue to heal what's broken in our world.Purchase Chris's book WISE Generosity here: https://www.amazon.com/WISEgenerosity-Purposeful-Practical-Living-Giving/dp/1637631936
2026-02-251h 04The Simple Charity PodcastA Data-Driven Approach to Preventing Modern SlaveryDid you know that there are 50 million people in modern day slavery today? And this is despite the reality that slavery is illegal in every country in the world.Love Justice claims that every $112 that is donated to the organization prevents a person from becoming a slave. And, as John and Brian discuss on the show, it’s possible that this is a significant underestimate of their impact.Learn more about Love Justices work at www.lovejustice.ngo.
2026-02-1859 min
The Spiritual Speakeasy Show09: Reading Faces, Building Trust, and the Lost Art of Human Connection With Brian GalkeIn this episode of The Spiritual Speakeasy, Brian sits down with Brian Galke, expert in facial recognition, emotional intelligence, and human connection, for a conversation that changes how you see people — literally.From reading facial features to understanding communication styles, this episode explores how subtle cues shape trust, relationships, leadership, and connection in a digital world that’s losing touch with face-to-face humanity.As Brian crafts an old fashioned behind the bar, the conversation unfolds around identity, intuition, sales, leadership, parenting, and why understanding people has never mattered more.This isn’t about manipu...
2026-02-1741 minThe Simple Charity PodcastHow to Form a Covenantal Community of FriendsThere's the self and the other. When we form a deep community of friends, we train ourselves to focus more on others and grow in the generous love of Jesus. In this episode, we learn from Rick Steinberger who has journeyed with a committed group of friends for over 18 years. Maybe God is calling you to be the catalyst for a community like this. Listen to learn more about how to get started.Learn more about NCF Orlando: www.ncfgiving.com/orlando/During the conversation, Rick mentions the books Being with God by AJ Sherrill...
2026-02-121h 04The Spiritual Speakeasy Show08: From Nothing to Options: Discipline, Identity, and Creating Your Own Way With Thax TurnerWhat if the difference between being stuck and moving forward is learning how to create options?In this episode of The Spiritual Speakeasy, Brian sits down with Thax Turner, Vice President at Shamrock Foods, for a grounded conversation about discipline, identity, forgiveness, and building a life when you start with very little.Thax shares his journey from a childhood marked by instability, scarcity, and free lunch lines to leadership in corporate America — not as a highlight reel, but as a study in mindset, daily rituals, and personal responsibility.This episode explores what Thax ca...
2026-02-1040 minThe Spiritual Speakeasy Show07: All In: Why Simple Values Create Extraordinary Lives With Joey DziedzicWhat if clarity didn’t require complexity?In this episode of The Spiritual Speakeasy, Brian sits down with Joey Dziedzic, education coordinator for the Arizona Diamondbacks and former public school teacher, for a grounded conversation about core values, consistency, and what it actually means to be “all in.”Joey shares what it looks like to support young athletes navigating pressure, culture shock, and identity — and why a single, clearly lived value can act as a compass through uncertainty, mistakes, and growth.This episode explores leadership without ego, simplicity without shortcuts, and why most people a...
2026-02-0335 minThe Simple Charity PodcastNonprofit Finance EssentialsPurchase Funding Your Mission to learn more about nonprofit finance.Explore Karen's organization, Infinite Giving.The nonprofit sector is a $1.4 trillion portion of the US economy. That’s 5% of US GDP. How can nonprofit organizations wisely steward their funds? Why are cash reserves important, what are endowments, and is it possible to have too much cash reserves? What are the differences between endowments, foundations, and donor-advised funds?This is a conversation that's essential for nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, and philanthropists about nonprofit finance.Give us your feedback by emailing brian@simplecharity.org.
2026-01-281h 01The Spiritual Speakeasy Show06: Good Leadership Starts With Alignment (Not Force) With Brittany AndersonIn this episode of The Spiritual Speakeasy, Brian welcomes Brittany Anderson - entrepreneur, strategist, and leadership consultant - for a conversation about what leadership looks like when it’s built around people instead of pressure.Brittany explains why most operating systems fail to account for human energy, emotional intelligence, and alignment — and how leaders can stop forcing growth and start building sustainable teams.This conversation explores: • why force-driven leadership burns people out • the difference between effort and force • leadership archetypes and self-awareness • people-first operating systems • why alignment...
2026-01-2736 minThe Simple Charity PodcastBecoming a Non-Anxious PresenceLearn more about Judy's retreat center in Italy: www.villadivorno.com/Judy Nelson Lewis is a spiritual director and writer. She is the author of Exhale, which includes brief meditations to guide you to God's heart. In this wide-ranging conversation, she shares about a retreat center in Italy, the rise of the spiritual formation movement in evangelicalism, and an itinerary for the spiritual journey. Join for a conversation about faith and love with a wise guide.
2026-01-211h 05The Spiritual Speakeasy ShowFinding Your Why (And Why It Changes Everything) With Gary SanchezWhat if nothing is wrong with you — you’re just living out of alignment?In this episode of The Spiritual Speakeasy, Brian sits down with Gary, founder of The WHY Institute, to explore identity, purpose, and what happens when we spend years muting who we really are.From a life-altering medical crisis to discovering the deeper patterns behind human motivation, Gary shares how finding your Why can change everything — from your career and relationships to your energy, mental health, and sense of meaning.This conver...
2026-01-2042 minThe Simple Charity PodcastA Shelter for Sex-Trafficked Minors in NC and Why Relationships Matter in FundraisingLearn more about Flagship Equip: www.flagshipequip.com/This conversation features the origin stories of two impactful organizations: A shelter for sex-trafficked minors in North Carolina and a consulting business that helps faith-based nonprofits raise more money and have a greater impact. Emily Reed shares many insights about nonprofit leadership and fundraising excellence.
2026-01-151h 03The Spiritual Speakeasy Show04: The Right Kind of Hard | Akshay Nanavati on Solitude, Suffering, and Self-MasteryWhat if the thing you’re avoiding is the thing that frees you?In this episode of The Spiritual Speakeasy, Brian sits down with Akshay Nanavati — Marine veteran, explorer, author, and seeker — for a raw conversation about solitude, suffering, and what it means to truly master yourself.Akshay shares his journey from addiction and PTSD to extreme solitude — including darkness retreats, polar expeditions, and voluntary suffering — not as acts of punishment, but as a way to build an honest relationship with himself.This episode isn’t about doing hard things for ego or validation...
2026-01-1348 minThe Simple Charity PodcastDoes Foreign Aid Work? A Deep Dive on Research Methodologies in Monitoring and EvaluationIn this conversation with Amelia Thompson, a professional in international development with a master's from Harvard, we learn about how we know what we know about international development. We discuss RCTs, instrumental variables, focus groups, interviews, and mixed methods approaches. But we also talk about why love leads us to care about outcomes.
2026-01-071h 04The Spiritual Speakeasy Show02: Intent vs Impact: Why Words, Actions, and Behavior Matter More Than Meaning | Featuring Brian BogertIn this episode of The Spiritual Speakeasy, Brian sits down with Brian Bogert for a deep, nuanced conversation about intent, impact, emotional safety, self-protection, and the invisible patterns that shape how we show up in the world.As a custom mocktail is crafted at the bar, the conversation unfolds into territory most people avoid—how past pain creates armor, how performance becomes a defense mechanism, and why being “misunderstood” is often less about intention and more about behavior, energy, and nervous system responses.Brian Bogert shares personal stories from childhood trauma, identity, masculinity, and leadership, offeri...
2026-01-0646 minThe Spiritual Speakeasy Show01: Five Lessons from Cancer, Courage, and Choosing to Build Anyway | Featuring Jeff GroganIn this first episode of The Spiritual Speakeasy, Brian sits down with Jeff Grogan for a raw, honest conversation about cancer, mindset, identity, and what it means to keep building -even in the hardest seasons of life.While undergoing chemotherapy and radiation for a second cancer diagnosis, Jeff chose not to let his circumstances define him. Instead, he built a profitable business, deepened his purpose, and re-wrote the story he was living inside.As Brian crafts a custom cocktail inspired by Jeff’s journey, the two explore fear, faith, identity, and the power of the st...
2026-01-0644 minThe Spiritual Speakeasy Show03: Trust Your Village: Healing, Strength, and Showing Up for Your Future Self Featuring Vanessa MedinaIn this deeply moving episode of The Spiritual Speakeasy, Brian sits down with Vanessa Medina to talk about healing after trauma, the quiet strength required to rebuild a life, and why trusting your village can be the difference between survival and transformation.Vanessa shares her story with honesty, clarity, and wisdom—exploring what it means to show up for your future self even when the present moment feels unbearable. Together, they discuss grief, healing, nervous system regulation, and the permission to experience joy again after pain.This conversation isn’t ab...
2026-01-0642 minThe Simple Charity PodcastLoving Refugees Pt 3: The Politics of Immigration in 2025Learn more about the Forum at www.forumtogether.org.2025 has been a disruptive year for America's immigration system, including the refugee resettlement program. On this episode, Brian interviews Jenny Murray, the CEO of the National Immigration Forum on what has changed this year and why. They also discuss how faith in Jesus should influence our view of immigration policy and why refugee resettlement is one of the most morally unambiguous issues in this complex system.
2025-12-311h 03The Simple Charity PodcastLoving Refugees Pt 2: How Resettlement in America WorksLearn more about Inspiritus: www.weinspirit.orgTo come to America as a refugee is one of the most highly vetted immigration pathways in the world. In this episode, Sarah Burke, who has worked in refugee resettlement for over a decade, shares about this process and the experience of arriving in America as a refugee.This episode is part of a three-part series focusing on loving refugees.
2025-12-291h 14The Simple Charity PodcastLoving Refugees Pt 1: Building Homes in Camps Around the WorldLearn more about Every Shelter: www.everyshelter.org/Follow Moses Sawasawa on Instagram: www.instagram.com/mosessawasawaMost people don't realize that refugees often stay in camps for decades, not years. In this episode, Brian interviews Scott Key, an architect and the founder of Every Shelter, about his nonprofit that builds homes in refugee camps. Learn about life in refugee camps and the shelter options that are available.This episode is part of a three-part series focusing on loving refugees like Jesus. This series follows the journey that refugees take, beginning with life...
2025-12-1754 min
The Spiritual Speakeasy ShowThe Spiritual Speakeasy Show Official TrailerWelcome to The Spiritual Speakeasy Show - where the stories we share become the medicine we didn’t know we needed.Launching January 6, this show brings you into raw, soul-deep conversations about resilience, awakening, healing, intuition, identity, and the moments that change us forever.No gurus. No gatekeeping. Just real people telling the truth about what broke them… and what rebuilt them.If you're craving depth without dogma, wisdom without ego, and connection that feels human — you’re in the right place.🌟 BE THE FIRST TO KNOW WHEN W...
2025-12-1001 minThe Simple Charity PodcastA Jamaican School for Special Needs Kids and a Story of Faith and FastingSupport Adama's school at www.blagrovespecialneedsservices.org. In this episode of the Simple Charity Podcast, host Brian Grasso sits down with Adama Blagrove, founder of a rapidly growing school for special needs children in Jamaica. The conversation touches on the impact of Hurricane Melissa, as well as the resilience of Adama’s community. Adama shares how fasting and prayer have guided her work, including moments of striking spiritual discernment in caring for her students. She tells the story of how her journey began—moving from New York to Jamaica and starting her first special need...
2025-12-101h 01The Simple Charity PodcastA 50-Year Dream for Simple CharityIn this special episode, our CEO and founder Brian Grasso shares Simple Charity's origin story, the problems that we solve (poverty, complexity, and duplicity), and a vision for our organization's future. You can learn more about Simple Charity at www.simplecharity.org.
2025-12-0226 minThe Simple Charity PodcastAuthentic Discipleship and Real Relationships in the ChurchLearn more about Blazing Trees at www.blazingtrees.org.In this episode of The Simple Charity Podcast features a conversation between host Brian Grasso and James Harvey, founder of Blazing Trees, a nonprofit organization that supports fundraising for missionaries by providing prayer, encouragement, and resources. The discussion centers on the importance of authentic discipleship in the church and the key role of the Holy Spirit throughout the process. James Harvey shares his personal story about church planting and working with refugee communities, highlighting a vision for deeper and more genuine discipleship—moving away from fast-paced movement culture an...
2025-11-261h 10The Simple Charity PodcastLoving Like Jesus in PoliticsOn this episode of The Simple Charity Podcast host Brian Grasso interviews Abrm McQuarters of the (&) Campaign, a nonprofit that integrates Christian faith with political engagement. The discussion centers on practicing generous, Christ-like love and explores how faith can shape political involvement and early childhood education as pathways to civic engagement.Learn more about their work at andcampaign.org
2025-11-191h 00The Simple Charity PodcastThe Power of GenerosityIn this episode of The Simple Charity podcast, our host Brian Grasso sits down in person for an interview with Boyd Bailey, president of the National Christian Foundation (NCF) in Georgia and author of The Power of Generosity. The conversation centers on how to cultivate love and generosity inspired by Christian faith. Bailey shares personal stories about his role models of generosity and discusses the importance of consistency in practicing generosity and aligning one’s actions with Christian values. He suggests that while generosity is often associated with money, it also includes time, attention, and love.
2025-11-1250 minThe Simple Charity PodcastThe Only One in Class Who Knew Slavery Still ExistsOn this episode of The Simple Charity Podcast, host Brian Grasso has a conversation with Charlotte George, a passionate advocate against human trafficking. We discuss her experiences as the president of the International Justice Mission (IJM) chapter at Baylor University and how Charlotte connects her Christian faith with her commitment to justice, seeking to inspire others to take action in the fight against human trafficking.
2025-11-0554 minThe Simple Charity PodcastCaring for Vulnerable Moms in AtlantaIn this episode of The Simple Charity Podcast, host Brian Grasso interviews Christy Smucker, founder of The Mom Community, a nonprofit organization in Atlanta dedicated to supporting vulnerable mothers. Christy shares her personal journey of opening her home to help young mothers in difficult situations and how she eventually formalized that work into a structured organization. The Mom Community provides comprehensive support — from housing to emotional and material assistance — for mothers in vulnerable circumstances.
2025-10-2952 minThe Simple Charity PodcastBrighter Days for Young Men in Georgia Foster CareIn the episode of the Simple Charity Podcast, host Brian Grasso talks with Beth Vanderbeck and her team from Morningstar Children and Family Services, a residential home in Brunswick, Georgia, dedicated to serving children in foster care with special needs. Morningstar provides a safe and nurturing environment, with a staff trained to handle the complex needs of the youth in their care.
2025-10-2252 minThe Simple Charity PodcastHelping Without Hurting in GenerosityOn this episode of The Simple Charity Podcast, our conversation with Justin Lonas explores the work of The Chalmers Center, the nonprofit organization that produced the book When Helping Hurts. Learn more about their new class called Helping Without Hurting in Generosity at chalmers.org/generosity.
2025-10-151h 01The Simple Charity PodcastWater, Violence, Attention and HopeOn this episode of The Simple Charity podcast, hosted by Brian Grasso, we explore urgent topics such as the global water crisis, the link between poverty and violence, and the importance of sustainable development through the experiences and insights of Joshua Kurtz, leader of the Ayin Project. We also are treated to more insight on the water crisis from returning guest, Griffin Storm.
2025-10-081h 11The Simple Charity PodcastLearning Healthy Cross-Cultural EngagementOn this episode of the Simple Charity Podcast, the conversation today features an interview with Sarah Beth Fentress, Executive Director of 127 Worldwide, a nonprofit organization focused on forming partnerships with local leaders to implement their visions. The discussion touches on concepts like cultural humility and the importance of creating real, sustainable impact in vulnerable communities. It also highlights aspects of Sarah's personal and professional life, as well as her experience managing these partnerships over 14 years of international work. We hope this episode inspires you to explore what it means to show cultural humility in your own life!
2025-10-0154 minThe Simple Charity PodcastNotes from Giving Away $100 MillionIn this episode of the Simple Charity podcast, host Brian Grasso interviews Steve Steddom, the former executive director of a foundation that chose to "sunset"—that is, to donate all its funds until the principal capital was fully distributed. During the interview, they discuss the experience of giving away over $100 million, the growing trend of foundations choosing to sunset, the importance of building effective relationships between funders and nonprofit organizations, and how to engage in philanthropy with love and commitment. They also highlight the need for effective communication and the idea of fostering collaboration between foundations and organizations. We ho...
2025-09-2444 minThe Simple Charity PodcastA Crisis in a Country No One is Talking AboutThis episode of the Simple Charity podcast features Alex Grant, a member of Venture, a nonprofit organization that brings hope to places that need it. The episode discusses the impact of the March 2025 earthquake in Myanmar within the broader context of long-standing political and economic instability. Alex highlights Venture’s holistic mission, which focuses on sustainable community development and church planting, particularly in unreached and underdeveloped regions of Southeast Asia. The conversation emphasizes humanitarian responses to the earthquake and other challenges, and explores the role of the private sector in filling gaps left by USAID cuts. We hope this ep...
2025-09-1742 minThe Simple Charity PodcastCollege Students at UT Austin and Samford Fight TraffickingIn this episode of the Simple Charity Podcast, hosted by Brian Grasso, we discuss the ongoing work of the college chapters of IJM (International Justice Mission) and are joined by presidents of their respective chapters, Sydney Baker and Bethany Waters, who share their experiences leading initiatives to combat human trafficking and violence against the poor. In addition, the episode explores the benefits of having a Christian community focused on an external purpose beyond the community itself. We hope that this episode inspires you to discover your balance between developing your internal community and commitment to outward acts of service...
2025-09-1056 minThe Simple Charity PodcastWhat Just One (Couple) Can Do to Impact Lives in East AfricaIn this episode we have the pleasure of interviewing Amy and Clay Churchill of Just One Africa, a nonprofit that has been working for the past 13 years to provide access to safe drinking water in Kenya. The organization began by distributing 60 water filters in 2012 and since then has distributed around 14,000 filters and benefited nearly 300,000 people. Through partnerships with local leaders, Just One Africa not only addresses water issues but also supports the education and well-being of children and underserved communities.Amy and Clay talk about the agency each of us has to make a difference as we...
2025-09-031h 12The Simple Charity PodcastThe Power of Education to Empower Kids From Atlanta to the NationsIn this episode, we explore how education can be a powerful force for community transformation. Learn how Edify International is using microfinance to support private Christian schools across Africa and Latin America, creating sustainable impact at a remarkably low cost. We also dive into the inspiring story of Atlanta Youth Academy and discuss whether churches should broaden how they consider their involvement in local service.
2025-08-271h 04The Simple Charity PodcastStudents Give Water to Thousands: The Water Club StoryOn this episode of the Simple Charity Podcast, we got to dive into the inspiring story of Griffin Storm and Nicholas Hathaway, two young men who founded the Norman Water Club at their high school in Oklahoma to raise funds and awareness about the global water crisis. Together, they raised over $60,000 to provide access to clean drinking water for people in need around the world. Throughout the episode, we cover how important leadership, service, and the impact of active empathy in the face of global crises is in today's world. We hope this episode inspires you to make an...
2025-08-2050 minThe Simple Charity PodcastDisability, Belonging, and Hospitality in Durham's Reality MinistriesIn this episode of the Simple Charity Podcast, host Brian Grasso interviews Susan McSwain, Executive Director of Reality Ministries in Durham, North Carolina. The conversation explores some of the challenges faced by adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and how these experiences can teach us about belonging. Susan shares insights on the ministry’s organizational development, the need for authentic inclusion, and the transformative impact of mutual relationships. We hope that the conversations in this episode inspire you to build communities that value unconditional love and belonging from the very beginning!
2025-08-131h 04The Simple Charity PodcastIntroducing the Simple Charity PodcastWelcome to the Simple Charity Podcast, hosted by Brian Grasso. This podcast is about learning to love like Jesus in a crazy and complex world.On this intro episode, we have three special guests: Brian's wife, Savanna, and two of his best friends, Matthew Brague and Chris Kuo.Brian introduces the podcast to his wife and friends, and they give him feedback on what issues to cover and what challenges they experience that hinder them from loving like Jesus.Then, his wife and friends introduce Brian to you. This is your podcast, and...
2025-08-0648 min
Nonprofits TodayNPT 05 - Philanthropy That Works: Evidence-Based Giving with Brian GrassoWant to make sure your charitable donations make a difference? Most donors don’t know if their money is truly impacting the causes they care about. In this episode, we’re diving into evidence-based philanthropy and the power of strategic giving with Brian Grasso, CEO of Simple Charity.Brian shares his journey from raising funds as a high school student to leading a nonprofit that helps donors give wisely through research-backed approaches. We discuss unconditional cash transfers, the importance of community co-creation, and why nonprofits must use evidence-based interventions to succeed. Plus, we tackle a common chal...
2025-06-0333 min
Life's Best Medicine PodcastEpisode 241: The Arizona Low Carb CollaborativeThank you for tuning in for another episode of Life's Best Medicine. The Arizona Low Carb Collaborative is coming soon (March 22-23)! Join us for a day filled with delicious low-carb food, informative talks, and a chance to connect with like-minded individuals. Whether you're a seasoned low-carb pro or just starting your journey, this event is perfect for anyone looking to learn more about the low-carb lifestyle. Coach Bronson Dant is an exercise scientist, sports performance coach, and ketogenic athlete dedicated to helping athletes optimize their performance without sacrificing health. Since 2006, he has coached athletes at all...
2025-03-0727 min
Low Carb MD PodcastEpisode 385: The Arizona Low Carb CollaborativeThank you for joining us for another episode of the Low Carb MD Podcast. The Arizona Low Carb Collaborative is coming soon (March 22-23)! Join us for a day filled with delicious low-carb food, informative talks, and a chance to connect with like-minded individuals. Whether you're a seasoned low-carb pro or just starting your journey, this event is perfect for anyone looking to learn more about the low-carb lifestyle. Coach Bronson Dant is an exercise scientist, sports performance coach, and ketogenic athlete dedicated to helping athletes optimize their performance without sacrificing health. Since 2006, he has coached athletes...
2025-03-0723 min
Trainers Talking TruthsEp.187: Unlocking Leadership Potential: Mindset Strategies for Personal Trainers with Brian GrassoIn this episode Jenny and John chat with Brian Grasso, author of Mindset Matters Most, to talk about leadership and mindset in the fitness industry. From overcoming imposter syndrome to cultivating trust with clients, Brian provides invaluable advice for trainers looking to enhance their leadership skills. Whether you’re just starting out or are an experienced trainer, this episode will guide you in developing the mindset of a leader to influence and inspire those around you
2025-01-0855 min
The Heart of MoneyKeeping Charity Simple: A Conversation with Brian GrassoHave you ever been overwhelmed by the idea of giving? It can be difficult to know which causes to support, how much to give, and who to trust. Join me, Courtney Markley, as I engage in a compelling conversation with Brian Grasso, the insightful co-founder and CEO of Simple Charity. Brian sheds light on the often-overlooked challenges and emotions involved in charitable giving. Brian's inspiring journey from fundraising in high school to confronting a nonprofit that misused donations reveals the complexities of impactful giving. This pivotal experience motivated him to study economics and nonprofit evaluation, bridging the...
2024-11-1931 min
The Dream Architect Life: Where Money and Mindset MeetRewiring Your Brain for Post-Retirement Happiness With Brian Grasso (Ep.62)Understanding the real mechanics behind mindset and how to control it instead of letting it control you can lead to meaningful, lasting change.
Come along as Brittany Anderson is joined by elite performance coach, Brian Grasso. Together they delve into how understanding the mechanics of mindset—beyond just positive thinking—can redefine your approach to life’s transitions like retirement or selling a business.
Learn practical tools for creating a new self-identity, overcoming imposter syndrome, and sustaining your breakthrough moments.
Top takeaways include:
How Mindset is more than just positive thinking; it’s about u...
2024-07-1052 min
The All Access PodcastSimple Charity (feat. Brian Grasso)In this compelling conversation, Lane talks with Brian Grasso, co-founder and CEO of Simple Charity, exploring the origins, mission, and impact of the organization. Simple Charity, initially a high school club aiming to tackle global poverty through a Christian perspective, has evolved into a significant force for philanthropic advising and community education on poverty and injustice. Brian shares insights on the challenges of giving effectively, the importance of aligning philanthropy with Christian teachings on poverty, and the strategies Simple Charity employs to ensure donations make a real difference. The discussion delves into the broader issues of donor-advised funds, foundation...
2024-02-2834 min
Inner Edison Podcast by Ed ParcautMastering the Brain's Response to Failure: Insights from Brian GrassoWelcome back to another episode of the Inner Edison Podcast! I'm your host, Ed Parcaut, and today we have a very special guest joining us. Please welcome Brian Grasso, a renowned expert in brain science and personal development. In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of the brain and its response to failure, success, and change. Brian shares invaluable insights on how our brain's survival mechanisms often work against us, creating fear and self-sabotage. But fear not, because Brian provides practical tools and exercises to manipulate the brain in our favor and unlock our true potential. We e...
2023-09-0541 min
Unconventional MinistryGeneration Z and Their Apologetic of Action with Brian Grasso S4 Ep#118In this episode, hear about the inspiring work of Simple Charity and their mission to inspire Christian college students to live in solidarity with people experiencing poverty and injustice. Words are not enough – Gen Z needs an apologetic of action! Featured in the podcast episode is co-founder Brian Grasso who discusses the organization's approach to living out six practices of trust, gratitude, prayer, fasting, giving, and service.
Learn valuable insights into how to evaluate charity nonprofits that are truly making a difference in serving the poor and advancing God's Kingdom by sharing the criteria that Simple Charity us...
2023-06-0616 min
Apogee StrongThe Mind-Body Connection: How Mindset Coaching is Essential for Achieving Optimal Health and Fitness w/ Brian GrassoFitness has been about exercise, programming, physical evaluation and diet. These factors are naturally necessary for the fitness matrix. Still, we cannot deny that as our education on those four essential components has increased, so has the global epidemic of obesity and inactivity. Exercise and proper nutrition are not the solutions; understanding what drives human behaviour is.
Brian Grasso is a performance coach in Chicago who has trained elite athletes for more than ten years and has consulted for pro sports teams in the United States and Canada. He is the founder and CEO of the International...
2023-06-0149 min
The Finish Line PodcastBrian Grasso, CEO of Simple Charity, on the Impact of Generosity on College Campuses Across the Country (Ep. 68)Brian Grasso is the CEO and founder of Simple Charity. When he was in high school, Brian was drawn to the intersection of the gospel and global poverty. He, along with a number of other high school students, set a goal to raise $100,000 through a variety of fundraisers to fuel organizations working in that space.
That effort continued to grow into the nonprofit that Brian leads today, which operates at college campuses across the country. Simple Charity inspires Christian students to grow in solidarity with people experiencing poverty and injustice through multiple creative programs and initiatives. And...
2023-03-2757 min
Build An Iconic Life: with Kris WhiteheadEpisode 10: Eliminating Limits with Brian GrassoBe sure to catch this week’s episode of Build An Iconic Life Podcast, as I am honored to welcome an extraordinary guest, Brian Grasso.
Brian is the co-founder of Brian & Carrie: Eliminate Your Limits, a successful mindset and lifestyle coaching business that he runs with his amazing wife Carrie. In addition, he spent years as an Athletic Performance Coach and Consultant to elite athletes and Olympians, focusing on their mental and emotional performance and wellbeing. Brian is also an international speaker, author, and successful competitive athlete.
In this episode, Brian and I dive deep in...
2023-01-1849 min
The Strength Connection#122 - Brian & Carrie: Alexa Of MindIn the 122nd episode of The Strength Connection Podcast, Mike and our special guests, Creators of Let’s Eliminate Your Limits Program, Brian Grasso, speaker and author of Mindset Matters Most and Audacity Of Success, and Carrie Campbell, a BFF Pro Athlete, Personal Development Coach, and a Clinical Counselor will talk about the essence of ELI, the truth about depression, generational change, socializing aspect of ELI, and more.Join us in this insightful and captivating talk! In this chapter, you will discover:(1:10) Introducing our special guests, Creators of...
2022-11-2544 min
Success Profiles RadioBrian Grasso Discusses Creating An Elite Level Of Performance And The Power Of MastermindsBrian Grasso was this week’s guest on Success Profiles Radio. He is the author of the book, “Mindset Matters Most”, has written for magazines around the world including Men’s Fitness and Inked, and has spoken on stages worldwide.
He has worked as an Elite Performance Athlete coach for athletes who have competed on national teams, professional teams, and Olympic teams.
We discussed what it means to be elite in your chosen field, as well as increasing performance through hydration, focused breathing, setting powerful intentions, and creating optimal productivity.
Finally, we discussed creating a powerful 30-minute morning routine, as well as...
2022-11-1558 minSuccess Profiles Radio PodcastsBrian Grasso Discusses Creating An Elite Level Of Performance And The Power Of MastermindsBrian Grasso was this week’s guest on Success Profiles Radio. He is the author of the book, “Mindset Matters Most”, has written for magazines around the world including Men’s Fitness and Inked, and has spoken on stages worldwide.
He has worked as an Elite Performance Athlete coach for athletes who have competed on national teams, professional teams, and Olympic teams.
We discussed what it means to be elite in your chosen field, as well as increasing performance through hydration, focused breathing, setting powerful intentions, and creating optimal productivity.
Finally, we discussed creating a powerful 30-minute morning routine, as well as...
2022-11-1500 min
Fire and SoulHow to Bridge the Old Paradigm with the New with Brian GrassoToday's dose #172 is a little different than usual. Entrepreneur and multiple 7-figure master mindset coach Brian Grasso, who was on this podcast with his wife Carrie Campbell in October 2018, asked me to be a guest in his high-end mastermind. The conversation was around courageous leadership, leading with vibration, and the dance between the old paradigm of proving and performing and the New Earth frequency of love and flow. It was so powerful that I decided to share it with you in its entirety. Enjoy! Tune in and learn:Why I decided to share this c...
2022-07-111h 05The Strength Connection#22 - Brian Grasso: Transactional VS TransformationalEPISODE 22Brian Grasso: Transactional VS Transformational ProspectsIn the 22nd Episode of The Strength Connection Podcast, Mike and our special guest speaker and author of Mindset Matters Most and Audacity Of Success, Brian Grasso will talk about people buy how you make them feel, the importance of emotional intelligence for athletes, as you go your business goes, Brian’s business strategy, and the difference between Transactional VS Transformational prospectsJoin us in this insightful and captivating talk!
2021-11-301h 03
Beyond Curious ®#57: Get The Best Wisdom From 5+ Hours Of Interviews In 30 Minutes... w/ Joel Weldon, Andre Norman, Brian Grasso, Joshua B. Lee, and Jewels DuncanWant the best wisdom from 5+ hours of interviews in 30 minutes?That’s exactly what we’re doing in today’s episode!We pulled 5 clips from past episodes that highlight incredible wisdom… and created an entire episode out of it!You’ll get wisdom from:- A master paid advertiser that turned $3M in adspend into $38M of sales…- A gang leader running a $3m/mo heroin, prostitution, & extortion operation… turned Harvard Fellow & motivational speaker…- Someone who ha...
2021-11-2333 min
An Even Better Second HalfMindset Matters Most part 4-6Brian Grasso's book read by me used by permission
2021-08-2711 minAn Even Better Second HalfMindset Matters Most part 1-4The beginning of the book Mindset Matters Most by Brian Grasso used by permission
2021-08-2612 min
Beyond Curious ®#9: This 4-Step Scientifically Validated Process Will Help You ELIMINATE Your Limits w/ Brian Grasso & Carrie CampbellToday we have TWO podcast guests: Brian Grasso and Carrie Campbell.Brian has coached more than 20,000 athletes — including Olympic medalists — and founded one of the largest fitness and sports education organizations in the world.His wife, Carrie, was a clinical counselor for almost two decades... and today she’s an international model training for the LA World Beauty Fitness & Fashion competition. She can squat about 300 lbs. and boasts a bench press in the neighborhood of 185 lbs… at a bodyweight of 127 lbs!Together, Brian and Carrie are a POWER co...
2020-12-2259 min
PTA Global Fitness Leaders Podcast[PTAGlobal Webinar featuring Brian Grasso]There are 4 basic and simple mindset exercises that EVERY SINGLE PERSON on the planet should do every single day (in order to have a success-driven mindset and strong emotional intelligence - including happiness). They are easy to do, easy to explain and simple to understand.
Join PTA Global Executive-Vice-president, Dan Duran, as he interviews mindset and performance expert, and PTA Global contributor Brian Grasso to discuss:
- What the past 20 years can tell you about next-level success as a Personal Trainer/Coach today
- What the 4 pillars are, and how to apply them
2020-07-0759 min
Laptop Empires Podcast4 Exercises for Building a Better Mindset with Brian GrassoMindset plays an integral role in achieving success in every area of your lives, be it business/career, finances, relationships, health, etc. Changing your mindset is not an overnight task— you need an expert to help you go way deeper. On today’s podcast episode, we’re sharing a recording from a live training inside our Laptop Empires coaching community. We brought in a very special guest, Brian Grasso of Brian & Carrie, and we’re SO grateful he shared his time and expertise. Brian has a Ph.D. in pastoral counseling and 25 years as a high-end...
2019-09-1600 min
Quantum Creating PodcastEffortless Action With Brian GrassoI'm joined today, on the podcast's five month anniversary, by the amazing Brian Grasso as we discuss the concept of Wu Wei, why hustle and grind are a fools charter and other spiritual and science based concepts... Don't miss this one!
2018-12-0345 min
The SuperHuman Academy PodcastEp. 199: Diving Deep Into Mindset And Power Couples W/ Brian Grasso & Carrie CampbellGreetings, SuperFriends! Today we are joined by my fellow Genius Network members, Brian Grasso & Carrie Campbell. They are of "Brian & Carrie - In the Morning", a 5-day a week live show that used to offer daily mindset training. Brian & Carrie are considered some of the top experts in mindset training, and they've even developed their own "Eliminate Your Limits" system. They've actually spent decades, together and individually, in the trenches, coaching and working with people and helping them reach their greatest levels of success and happiness, in everything from health, to wealth, to relationships.
2018-11-1357 min
The Kelly O ShowEPISODE 106: The ONE Reason You Aren't Seeing Results in the Gym. Hint: It's Not What You Think. Real Talk with Brian and Carrie Grasso About Goals and How to Smash Them.Brian and Carrie Grasso are the type of personal trainers who help clients have the right mindset to accomplish their goals. Brian has worked alongside professional athletes in the fitness industry for over 20 years and realized most of the work involved mental and emotional stability. Carrie, on the other hand, quit being a personal trainer just three weeks in, finding out personal training has a lot more to do with counselling than actual training. They are now accomplished mindset coaches and considered experts in their field. Their business focus is due to the void in the fitness industry regarding...
2018-09-0942 min
Leave Your Mark#17 - The Dynamic Duo of Brian Grasso and Carrie CampbellSend us Fan MailThis episode features the dynamic duo of Brian Grasso and Carrie Campbell. These eclectic and amazing spirits have massive resumes and careers of their own that have transcended into the combined power of mindset. They've taken the research in mindset combined it with the pragmatic application of their own strategies and created an exceptionally powerful system that is liberating people all over the world from the limits they place on success. They are indeed leaving their mark on the world at large, and this is a can't miss episode!If you lik...
2018-06-0956 min
The Kelly Roach ShowUSR 328: How to Succeed with Live Streaming with Carrie Campbell and Brian GrassoThree. Two. One. ACTION! Whether it’s something as small as a Facebook Live to as big as a live television appearance, there are ways to ensure that your live sessions are a success. It’s not secret that social media favors live video, and today it is one of the best ways to reach more people and create content in less time. Today, you’ll meet Carrie Campbell and Brian Grasso - morning show hosts, live streaming experts, and owners of Brian and Carrie TV. The duo started doing their live str...
2018-01-0327 min
The Whole Shebang: The Minute-by-Minute Velvet Goldmine PodcastThe Whole Shebang Minute 101: Is It Carthur or Arurt? In Minute 101 of The Whole Shebang, Jenny and Mike look at the aftermath of Brian's incognito visit to the Death of Glitter show, Mandy and Curt's continued definition of themselves in terms of Brian, Arthur's reticence about Brian and paralysis in the face of Mandy and Curt and the tantalizing possibility that 1984 is Arthur's fault, Curt and Arthur cruising each other, Arthur's fashion, hair, and makeup and how they stick with the amateurishness of the fans throughout Velvet Goldmine, the various relationship mashup names from the movie, Curt's questions for Arthur and how they betray his need...
2016-11-2813 min
The Whole Shebang: The Minute-by-Minute Velvet Goldmine PodcastThe Whole Shebang Minute 100: Mike's Only-Child Karaoke In Minute 100 of The Whole Shebang, Mike and Jenny take just a brief moment to celebrate their hundredth episode and examine Jenny and Mike's respective singing talents and Mike's taking karaoke entirely too seriously, before cracking into: the crowd reaction to "Gimme Danger," Brian's turning away from Curt's feelings and an opportunity to return to him, our sequel featuring Curt-as-knight-in-shining-armor saving the prince (Brian), the similarities between Brian Slade and Darth Vader (look! 5 and 5 again!), the similarities between Velvet Goldmine and David Foster Wallace's Infinite Jest, how Velvet Goldmine would be a great conversation-after-cinema-over-coffee movie, Arthur's presence...
2016-11-2516 min
The Whole Shebang: The Minute-by-Minute Velvet Goldmine PodcastThe Whole Shebang Minute 99: The Brian Slade Survivors' Club In Minute 99 of The Whole Shebang, Mike and Jenny examine the arrival of Brian Slade in trenchcoated and be-fedora'd disguise at the Death of Glitter show, exactly who if anyone noticed him, how the end of "Gimme Danger" gives the film audience some closure on Brian and Curt, the fact that this is the first time all four main characters in the same place, Curt's questionable belt and our coming around on Ewan's physique in the movie and how no one could healthily look like Iggy Pop, Mandy's emotional reaction to Curt's performance, and our own crackpot...
2016-11-2416 min
The Whole Shebang: The Minute-by-Minute Velvet Goldmine PodcastThe Whole Shebang Minute 95: This Ain't My First Podcast In Minute 95 of The Whole Shebang, Jenny, Mike and special guest Rob MacDougall reveal ALL! Yes, the big twist of Velvet Goldmine is finally revealed for real. And spinning out from that, we talk about: the actor who plays Tommy Stone, the questions of identity swirling around Brian, Tommy, and Jack, Rob's deeper theory on the dramatic poles of the movie and how Brian really is the villain of the piece, and Rob's even deeper theory about fellow cultural chameleon Jane Fonda, some thoughts on both Brian and Arthur getting their wishes, but in horrible, m...
2016-11-1826 min
The Whole Shebang: The Minute-by-Minute Velvet Goldmine PodcastThe Whole Shebang Minute 94: The Big Book of Brian Slade In Minute 94 of The Whole Shebang, Jenny, Mike and guest host Rob go deep into Arthur's research methods, comparing his look through a big periodical index in an earlier minute with his use of cutting-edge 1984 high technology in this one: fax machines and online databases. Then we go SUPER deep into the history of fax machines, 1980s computing and online research, and how this old retrotech evokes an uncanny alternate 1984 very well. We talk about Arthur's sad apartment, and then we talk a little bit about why Rob chose these minutes, how expertly Todd Haynes creates just...
2016-11-1720 min
The Whole Shebang: The Minute-by-Minute Velvet Goldmine PodcastThe Whole Shebang Minute 89: A Divorce Quote-Off In Minute 89 of The Whole Shebang, Mike and Jenny are yet again joined by extra-fancy, Maleficent-hoodie-wearing guest host Jen Melchert, and after a brief detour into talking about late '90s/early '00s Hot Topic hate, we go straight into the Mandy vs. Brian RPG battle using quotes and references: Mandy's opening volley of a combined Rolling Stones/Aleister Crowley quote, then Brian's return to good old Oscar Wilde's post-prison period with a quote about "suffering at the birth of a child as at the birth of a star," Mandy's riposte with Brian's living in terror...
2016-11-1019 min
The Whole Shebang: The Minute-by-Minute Velvet Goldmine PodcastThe Whole Shebang Minute 88: A Three-Dimensional Downfall In Minute 88 of The Whole Shebang, Mike and Jenny are joined by fancy guest Jen Melchert to discuss: the beginning of Brian and Mandy's final argument and the Mystery Moose hovering over this scene, about how in Britain if you run out of tea, you are obligated to offer your guests cocaine, Brian's decision to stage his downfall at the office and not his own home, how this scene with Mandy serving Brian papers is based on a specific incident from Angie and David Bowie's tumultuous marriage, and how Mandy and Brian's split highlights some of the...
2016-11-0913 min
The Whole Shebang: The Minute-by-Minute Velvet Goldmine PodcastThe Whole Shebang Minute 87: A Skirmish of Jens In Minute 87 of The Whole Shebang, Mike and Jenny are yet again joined by fancy guest host Jen Melchert, and we discuss: Mandy's being misled to believe Brian was actually dead after his assassination on stage, what Mandy would've worn to the funeral, how Courtney Love fits into Jenny's "maiden-mother-crone" formulation of rock and roll women, Mandy's being utterly alone and isolated in Brian's circle, and then we turn to Brian's fall into cocaine paranoia and how it echoes Bowie's own cocaine period, and how Bowie's flirtation with the occult came at the very same time, look...
2016-11-0816 min
The Whole Shebang: The Minute-by-Minute Velvet Goldmine PodcastThe Whole Shebang Minute 84: The Biggest Pile of Coke Ever In Minute 84 of The Whole Shebang, Jenny and Mike look at Arthur's abashedness at meeting the Flaming Creatures and being blown a kiss, the proto-goth aesthetic at the Flaming Creatures show, the beginnings of the prehistory of goth in Jim Morrison and the Velvet Underground and the '90s resurgence of a glam-goth look, and then we look at Brian Slade's fans' rebellion against his assassination hoax with the burning of his albums and memorabilia, the burning of records throughout rock history and how it's reflected in Disco Demolition Night, Brian's post-assassination downfall surrounded by groupies, drugs...
2016-11-0313 min
The Whole Shebang: The Minute-by-Minute Velvet Goldmine PodcastThe Whole Shebang Minute 83: No Robot Voices In Minute 83 of The Whole Shebang, Jenny and Mike look at what we've lost in terms of emotional revelation in movies and in real life now that there are no phone receivers to hang up or slam down anymore, Curt's retreat to Berlin and how it's a reference to Bowie's Berlin period and trilogy and to other German retreats like the Beatles in Hamburg, the differences between Brian Slade and David Bowie, especially in how each of them were treated by their managers, the cultural history of the doner kebab in Germany, Britain, and the U.S...
2016-11-0218 min
The Whole Shebang: The Minute-by-Minute Velvet Goldmine PodcastThe Whole Shebang Minute 82: A Complete Metaphor Flush In Minute 82 of The Whole Shebang, Jenny and Mike look at the end of the goodbye scene between Curt and Brian, Curt's frantic smoking of a cigarette, and all the "cigarette business" actors could get up to in movies during the smoking era, Brian's cubey electric-blue jacket and how it hearkens back to Brian and Curt's first business breakfast, Jenny's love of overly literal music videos, Brian's flashbacks to Brian and Curt's "much-needed" getaway and how it reminded Jenny of the 1991 film The Hours and Times about John Lennon and Brian Epstein, Curt's trip to Heathrow and...
2016-11-0114 min
The Whole Shebang: The Minute-by-Minute Velvet Goldmine PodcastThe Whole Shebang Minute 81: Glittery Leopards Are Real In Minute 81 of The Whole Shebang, Jenny and Mike talk about the aftermath of the recording studio blow-up, including Mandy's gradual drift away from Brian (and her fashion choices and hair for hanging around the studio), Mandy's bubble perm as a tribute to Angie Bowie, the changing hairstyles of the main characters and the famous hairstylists of Swinging London, Jenny and Mike's visit to the V&A for their "You Say You Want a Revolution? Records and Rebels 1966-1970" exhibit, the Fall of the Fripperies and Brian's cruelty to Curt in the face of Brian having been h...
2016-10-3115 min
The Whole Shebang: The Minute-by-Minute Velvet Goldmine PodcastThe Whole Shebang Minute 80: You're Just This Weird Nerd In Minute 80 of The Whole Shebang, we continue the uncomfortable time looking at Curt, Brian, and Jerry's conflict in the recording studio, the idea of studio polish vs. raw energy, where Brian's energies are best directed and how Bowie used his time in inadvisable ways early in his career, Curt's insults cutting to the core of Brian's puffed-up space-age persona and coterie of yes-men, and then we look at this behavior through the lens of the fact that these rock stars (and actors) are really young when they're behaving badly, Brian's milquetoast suggestion of having a bit...
2016-10-2812 min
The Whole Shebang: The Minute-by-Minute Velvet Goldmine PodcastThe Whole Shebang Minute 74: Excessively, Guiltily Naked In Minute 74 of The Whole Shebang, Jenny and Mike see Arthur leave home for London, and talk about the '60s and '70s phenomenon of teenagers striking out on their own as embodied by the Beatles' "She's Leaving Home" and the influx of young hippie (and gay) youth heading to San Francisco, and the difference between teenage rebellion in the US and UK. And then it's back to "the morning after the night before," as Shannon and Mandy have a morning-after heart-to-heart about Brian, and we speculate on whether really is emotionally invested in Brian, trying...
2016-10-2013 min
The Whole Shebang: The Minute-by-Minute Velvet Goldmine PodcastThe Whole Shebang Minute 68: Rewriting History In Minute 68 of The Whole Shebang, Mike and Jenny talk about Curt's decision to group Brian with the Loveliest Men in Europe, the history of the concept of natural law in an effort to demonize homosexuality, the parallels between Curt and Brian's kiss in this minute and Mandy and Brian's kiss, the blue backdrop evoking not only Brian's/Maxwell's signature color but also Derek Jarman's Blue and West Side Story, and then the dedication to a letter to Dorian Gray, the comparative chasteness of the kiss and the reasons behind that choice, and the first gay kisses...
2016-10-1213 min
The Whole Shebang: The Minute-by-Minute Velvet Goldmine PodcastThe Whole Shebang Minute 62: Maybe You Could Be My Mainman In Minute 62 of The Whole Shebang, Jenny and Mike look at Curt's place among the Fripperies and whether his wounded soul is just too authentic and sincere for the campy poses inherent in Brian's lifestyle, whether or not Jerry is exploiting Brian and Curt's budding gay romance for publicity and sensation, the phenomenon of gay fanservice in pop music and a modern example of it in K-Pop, and whether this sort of phenomenon will disappear with greater mainstream cultural acceptance of gay desire, and Brian and Curt's ride on the Space Spinner to Lou Reed's "Satellite of...
2016-10-0415 min
The Whole Shebang: The Minute-by-Minute Velvet Goldmine PodcastThe Whole Shebang Minute 54: The Earring of Destiny In Minute 54 of The Whole Shebang, Jenny and Mike look at Brian's theft of Jack's earring of purest green, the raucous press conference that launched Brian Slade's career of outrageousness, the fashion outrage of neon-green leopard print, Mandy and Brian's coordinated outfits and careers, Mandy's rainbow eye makeup and the history of the rainbow flag in the gay lib movement, the rainbow as signifier of the Age of Aquarius, the meaning of all the colors in the gay rainbow (and hanky codes), Jerry's lack of specificity in referring to the reporters at the press conference, our second...
2016-09-2211 min
The Whole Shebang: The Minute-by-Minute Velvet Goldmine PodcastThe Whole Shebang Minute 53: Time, Places, People In Minute 53 of The Whole Shebang, Jenny and Mike look at the perfect symbolism of T. Rex's 1971 track "Cosmic Dancer" and its applicability to both Jack and Brian, how it presents the liminality of Brian's transition from folkie to glam, Mandy's integral role in making Brian's new image, Mandy's philosophy of a mediator to help the world cope with the acceleration of progress, its relation to Bowie's idea of the "homo superior" (swiped by Chris Claremont for the X-Men) and Terence McKenna's Timewave Zero, how Mandy's theories of time and progress reflect the stimulating nature of her...
2016-09-2112 min
The Whole Shebang: The Minute-by-Minute Velvet Goldmine PodcastThe Whole Shebang Minute 52: A Tempest of Identity In Minute 52 of The Whole Shebang, Jenny and Mike continue to take a close look at the sexy sex scene between Brian and Mandy, Mike tries his hand at both his Matt Berry impression and at sex play-by-play commentary, we recall the naughty '70s/'80s sketch movies The Groove Tube, Kentucky Fried Movie, and Amazon Women on the Moon, the literal blurring of identity between Jack Fairy, Mandy, and Brian, Jack's possible metamorphosis into Brian, and Brian's naked attempt to steal something shiny and green from Jack. Find us on the web at...
2016-09-2008 min
The Whole Shebang: The Minute-by-Minute Velvet Goldmine PodcastThe Whole Shebang Minute 51: A Goth Meet-Cute In Minute 51 of The Whole Shebang, Jenny and Mike look at the kind of gothic first date which Mandy and Brian take on a cold New Year's Eve, the Apollonian symbology of the goth raven, and then Mike conclusively links Brian Slade to the immortal legend of the Highgate Vampire. And then we get into our own "goth meet-cute" (really more of a "nerd meet-cute") on teh Livejournals, how our first two guest hosts were instrumental in our long-distance courtship, and how Immigration forced us to have a quickie wedding in the middle of the winter, much...
2016-09-1921 min
The Whole Shebang: The Minute-by-Minute Velvet Goldmine PodcastThe Whole Shebang Minute 50: Do You Jive? In Minute 50 of The Whole Shebang, Mike and Jenny talk about "Ladytron," both Bry(i)ans working at the height of their powers, and Brian Eno's utterly baffling unconfirmed Twitter account, Todd Haynes's continuing expert use of color to signify character, how Jenny has given Mike the vocabulary to speak about musical theater, how Mandy and Brian meet and how the real Angie and David met, Jonathan Rhys Meyers and Toni Collette's real chemistry and how we're going to talk about Brian and Mandy's sex scene over a podcast. Find us on the web at...
2016-09-1613 min
The Whole Shebang: The Minute-by-Minute Velvet Goldmine PodcastThe Whole Shebang Minute 46: When Mandy Met Brian In Minute 46 of The Whole Shebang, Mike and Jenny talk about the many guises of David Bowie and how other artists have succeeded or failed in that kind of compulsive reinvention, our flashback to New Year's Eve 1969 and the exterior of the Sombrero Club, Brian's late hippie look and the secret origin of Mandy's afghan coat, David and Angie's swapping clothes and looks, the ten-shilling cover charge at the Sombrero and Mike's nerding out about the decimalization of British currency in 1971, the post-Christmas interior of the Sombrero and the legacy of its lighted dance floor, the fin-de-déc...
2016-09-1216 min