Shows
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityA Live Chat with Filmmakers at the Austin Revolution Film FestivalOn this very special episode of Excelsior Journeys: The Road to Creativity, host & producer George Sirois sets up a live conversation at the 2025 Austin Revolution Film Festival. On the night of the awards gala where George's "Minus One Plus" was nominated for Best US Short Script - SciFi, George opened the floor to any filmmakers who wanted to share their experiences when it came to putting their films together and enjoying the festival itself. The attending filmmakers (and the films they represented) are as follows:Michael Charron, "The Time Capsule"Darwin Reina, Katie...2025-03-1029 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityPhoenix Online Studios COO Katie Hallahan Reminds Us Every Game Has a StoryOn this week's episode of Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with Katie Hallahan, a writer & marketer who has spent years in the publishing industry in many different roles before becoming the COO of Phoenix Online Studios, an independent video game production company. Katie & George discuss how Katie's love of storytelling pushed her in various directions before bringing it to Phoenix Online, where she has become the co-designer for games such as The Silver Lining and Cognition. Learn more about Phoenix Online Studios by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as...2025-03-0431 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityActor / Writer / Comedian Anand Mahalingam Went from Lying on Futons to Stand-Up on StagesOn this week's episode of Excelsior Journeys: The Road to Creativity, host & producer George Sirois sits down with actor, writer, and stand-up comic Anand Mahalingam. A college dropout who spent his first years in Los Angeles sleeping on friends' couches, Anand pushed himself to get on the stand-up comic stage and not only made a name for himself on the comedy circuit, but also as an actor who can be seen on For All Mankind and How I Met Your Father. He can also be seen as the lead actor in the short film Ronnie California: The King of...2025-02-1853 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityActress, Podcast Host, Physician Janet McMordie is Here to Remind You It's Never Too Late to PivotThis week on Excelsior Journeys: The Road to Creativity, host & producer George Sirois sits down with a fellow podcast host, Janet McMordie. After spending years in sports medicine, Janet decided to pursue her passion, acting, and has kept herself busy in film & television, on the stage honing her craft in improvisation, and even as a stunt performer. The two have a wonderful conversation as Janet shares her history through her podcast "Second Act Actors" and reminds us there's never a wrong time to pivot and go after your dreams. Find out more about Janet by clicking HERE.2025-01-2137 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityCelebrating 35 Years of Let It Ride with The Jockey Club Podcast's Dan DelgadoMerry Christmas! This week on Excelsior Journeys: The Road to Creativity, host & producer George Sirois welcomes fellow podcaster Dan Delgado (host of The Jockey Club Podcast) to celebrate 35 years of the 1989 Richard Dreyfuss / Teri Garr comedy Let It Ride. To listen to more of Dan's podcasts, click HERE.For those who would like to get involved with the Once Upon a Podcast Network, please message onceuponapodcastnetwork@gmail.com with your contact information and the name & description of your show. And if you have an idea for any of the concepts listed below, definitely let us...2024-12-2442 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityAuthor Lindsay Flanagan is Ready to Unleash the Little Red Wraith!On this week's episode of Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with author & editor Lindsay Flanagan. The two discuss Lindsay's history in writing, leading to her not only releasing her latest novel Little Red Wraith, but also joining the staff of Roan & Weatherford Publishing Associates, just as George did earlier this year. For more about Lindsay and her works, click HERE.For those who would like to get involved with the Once Upon a Podcast Network, please message onceuponapodcastnetwork@gmail.com with your contact information and the name & description of your show. And...2024-11-1941 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityGamblers, Brigades, and a Cold Slither: A Conversation with Animation Writer Michael Charles HillThis week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with writer Michael Charles Hill, and the two of them look back at his time as a writer/producer with Sunbow Productions. While there, Michael was responsible for some of the most memorable episodes of 1980s animation. Michael gave us the unforgettable riff of "Cold Slither" on G.I.Joe, the origin story of the Combaticons on TransFormers, Part 2 of the Season 3 episode "The Return of Optimus Prime," and so much more. For those who would like to get involved with the Once Upon a Podcast...2024-09-241h 14Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityStonemaier Games Co-Founder Jamey Stegmaier Wants You to Know It's Your Turn!This week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with Jamey Stegmaier, co-founder of the St. Louis-based tabletop game publisher Stonemaier Games. For over a decade, Jamey and his team have released games such as Expeditions, Scythe, Rolling Realms, and more, while pushing the possibilities of design & execution beyond the typical roll-and-play dynamics we have known for decades. But instead of keeping their winning formula to themselves, Jamey has consistently shared his wisdom on YouTube so others can be inspired to get into game design and avoid the pitfalls discussed in his videos. To learn...2024-09-1725 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityAuthor Nina Schuyler Invites You to Take a Step In This Ravishing WorldThis week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with award-winning author & instructor Nina Schuyler. After presenting various books that focus on many different genres, Nina decided to take a collection of her own short stories and combine them into one large anthology, "In This Ravishing World," which has been released through Regal House Publishing. Nina not only joins us to talk about her history as an author, but also how she's been able to pave the road to personal success behind her so others could follow on a much easier path. To get your...2024-09-1046 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityAuthor Pooneh Sadeghi Has Brought Her Labor of Love to Life!This week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with Pooneh Sadeghi, author of the recently released global thriller Rumi and the Retribution. The two discuss the age-old phrase "write what you know" and how Pooneh wove years of research and knowledge of Persian culture into a story rather than just write a non-fiction book. She dedicated years of writing and rewriting until her labor of love found a home with Roan & Weatherford Publishing Associates, and she wants to make sure that you don't give up on your own passion projects so you can hopefully reach the...2024-09-0230 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityAuthor and Designer Kerrie Legend Has a Big (CENSORED) Question to Ask!THIS EPISODE OF EXCELSIOR JOURNEYS FEATURES LANGUAGE OF A MORE FRANK & EXPLICIT NATURE. LISTENER DISCRETION IS ADVISED.This week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with Kerrie Legend, an author, a designer, an expert at navigating various social media platforms to an author's benefit. She has a lot to share when it comes to helping authors with developing and harnessing those skills, and more often than not, it's those kinds of skills that authors and other creatives tend to lack. With the release of her latest book "What is This Fuckery?" Kerrie not only...2024-08-2750 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityActor and Author David Hern Discusses How NOT to Make It in HollywoodNearly 40 years ago, host & producer George Sirois was introduced to this week's guest when he stumbled upon a movie on HBO called "Summer Camp Nightmare." It featured a brief appearance by actor & author David Hern, and this was not only the starting point to this week's conversation, but it was also the start of David's time in Hollywood. Since then, he appeared in various roles on films & television programs, and he took the time to document his time in Hollywood with his memoir, "How Not to Make it in Hollywood," which is available on Amazon HERE.For...2024-08-1950 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityJazz Musician and Podcaster Miguel Landestoy Has Turned His Passions into His LivelihoodThis week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with accomplished jazz musician, instructor, and podcaster Miguel Landestoy. For nearly twenty years, Miguel has taken his love of music and turned it into a livelihood, and also turned his love of pop culture into the PlayBlack Podcast. Learn more about Miguel by clicking HERE and subscribe to his podcast HERE. For those who would like to get involved with the Once Upon a Podcast Network, please message onceuponapodcastnetwork@gmail.com with your contact information and the name & description of your show. And if...2024-07-3047 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityAuthor, Professor, Advocate Joe Chianakas Has Some Singlets and Secrets to ShareThis week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with author, college professor, and LGBTQ advocate Joe Chianakas. After reaching bestselling status with the Rabbit in Red trilogy, Joe would go on to create a new LGBTQ-focused YA series starting with Singlets & Secrets, inspired by The Karate Kid and its sequel series Cobra Kai. Learn more about Joe Chianakas by clicking HERE.For those who would like to get involved with the Once Upon a Podcast Network, please message onceuponapodcastnetwork@gmail.com with your contact information and the name & description of your show...2024-07-2352 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityJendia Gammon's Journey from Author to PublisherThis week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with author / publisher Jendia Gammon. A Nebula Award finalist, Jendia has had a love and passion for writing since childhood, and that has led to various published works released through different presses around the country. And now, with the development of an anthology filled with works by celebrated authors around the world, Jendia and her husband have taken the next step in their author journeys by opening up their own publishing house, creating new opportunities for those looking to get their stories into the hands of potential readers. 2024-07-1640 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityRolling the Dice for the Season 9 Premiere with Game Designer Lucas ZellersIt's the Season 9 Premiere of the Excelsior Journeys podcast, and host/producer George Sirois is starting this season with multi-game designer Lucas Zellers. In addition to sharing his journey into the world of games, Lucas goes into great detail about the development of his enormously successful crowdfunding campaign for his game "Book of Extinction," and so much more!For those who would like to get involved with the Once Upon a Podcast Network, please message onceuponapodcastnetwork@gmail.com with your contact information and the name & description of your show. And if you have an idea for any...2024-07-0954 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityPerformer, Marketer, Publisher: Rebecca Vickers Brings Storytelling Wherever She GoesThis week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with FMO Media's VP of Operations, Rebecca Vickers. As a marketer, a performer, and now as the head of her own publishing company, Rebecca's primary thrust that she brings to all of her ventures is storytelling. And the lesson she learned during her journey is that fellow creatives don't have to be afraid of marketing, they just have to look at it in the way they already look at the rest of the world. For those who would like to get involved with the Once Upon...2024-06-1153 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityWalking the Trail from Experience to Story with Author Mic LowtherThis week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with author Mic Lowther, who harnessed his decades-long dream of writing into seeking out experiences that can become the basis for later stories. The first major experience came in 1973 when he, his wife, and their 10-year-old child walked the Appalachian Trail, a 200+ day-long adventure that was documented in his book "Walking North." Since completing that journey, Mic has gone on to write a follow-up non-fiction book, as well as several children's books and his fiction trilogy that started with the novel "Seventeen Parcels" and continues with "The Unlikely...2024-06-0434 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativitySearching for the Source of Creativity Itself with Artist and Author Michaell MagrutscheThis week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with multimedia artist & author Michaell Magrutsche. This became a truly fascinating conversation that focused on the one thing that all creatives take for granted: finding out where the ideas came from that sparked the artistic journey we're all on. Learn more about Michaell by following the different links on his website HERE.For those who would like to get involved with the Once Upon a Podcast Network, please message onceuponapodcastnetwork@gmail.com with your contact information and the name & description of your show. And...2024-05-2852 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityThe Incredible Journey of Ceramic Artist and Author Morgan McCarverThis week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with ceramic artist & author Morgan McCarver. From overcoming scoliosis spinal fusion surgery to working with all kinds of clay to start up her business that now resides in Asheville, NC, Morgan never lost sight of her faith, which guides her to the next milestones in her life, which includes when she became an author of the book "God The Artist." Learn more about Morgan by clicking HERE.For those who would like to get involved with the Once Upon a Podcast Network, please message...2024-05-2037 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityAuthor Laura E. Thompson is Ready to Take Her Writing Community on an Elven QuestThis week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with fellow author Laura E. Thompson. She has written several YA & New Adult novels under the pen name Laura LaBarge, and has moved into sci-fi & fantasy with her Elven Quest series, her Witches of Tradbeldam series, and more! And she accomplished this with the help of the writing community she had cultivated over the years, a community that her former agent recommend she not pursue. Learn more about Laura by clicking HERE.For those who would like to get involved with the Once Upon...2024-05-1440 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityFilmmaker and Performer Dan Watt Has a Message for Everybody: Dance!This week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with filmmaker Dan Watt to discuss his latest project, the feature-length documentary "Everybody Dance," which can be found HERE. The two also talk about the various pivots he made in his career in entertainment, from dancing to stage managing to working with icons Carol Burnett & Bea Arthur, to filmmaking. Learn more about Dan by clicking HERE.For those who would like to get involved with the Once Upon a Podcast Network, please message onceuponapodcastnetwork@gmail.com with your contact information and the name & description...2024-05-0737 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityEnding April with an AMAThis week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois goes solo by answering questions provided by different creatives on social media. He discusses his history with voice acting, what led him into audiobook narrating, the mysteries of time management, the future for the Once Upon a Podcast Network, and more!For those who would like to get involved with the Podcast Network, please message onceuponapodcastnetwork@gmail.com with your contact information and the name & description of your show. And if you have an idea for any of the concepts listed below, definitely let us know! We'd like...2024-04-3017 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityAuthor and Community Organizer Sara Burton Has Glitter Ready for Fellow Authors EverywhereWriting is, at its heart, a very solitary profession. No matter how the day unfolds, at some point the writer has to sit down by themselves and get the daily word count finished. Sometimes the words spill out onto the page very easily, most of the time it's agonizing just to put one sentence together. So it's very important for the writer to have a community to lean on, people who know the highs and lows that come with doing this day in and day out. That's where author Sara Burton comes in, and she is the guest this...2024-03-2631 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityHost George Sirois Discusses Getting Into Voice Acting, Audiobook Narrating, and a Podcast NetworkThis week, host & producer George Sirois takes the time to answer some questions about getting into voice acting and audiobook narrating, as well as advice on what to do and what not to do when starting a podcast. Also, if you have an idea for a podcast yourself, the Once Upon a Podcast Network wants to know about it. Send your concept - or some samples of your work - to george@hesgotit.com, and you might be the latest addition to the network's roster. Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by...2024-02-2637 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityVoice Artist, Teacher, Social Media Strategist Chris Woodworth is Moving Ever Upward!For this week's episode of Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with his friend & co-worker, voice artist Chris Woodworth. The two discuss getting to know each other through the 529 Club on the Clubhouse app, working together on Excelsior: The Audio Journey, the animation VO dubbing videos on social media that sparked a sensation and led to Chris gaining well-deserved representation with more than one agency, and much more. For more information, please check out Chris Woodworth's website by clicking HERE.Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking...2024-02-2057 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityActress, Playwright, and Screenwriter Catherine Butterfield Keeps Making Life InterestingFor this week's episode of Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with actress, playwright, and screenwriter Catherine Butterfield. Starting out as an actress performing on stage in various theaters around the country, Catherine took control over her career and started writing plays that she could star in, including a one-woman show. This led to many opportunities and connections that led to Catherine working on network television shows and feature films. And now, in February 2024, she is taking the next big leap in her career by releasing her debut novel, The Serpent and the Rose.For...2024-02-1342 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityMichele DeFilippo and 1106 Design are Ready to Make All Indie Authors Look GoodFor this week's episode of Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with Michele DeFilippo, the founder of 1106 Design. A one-stop shop for everything an indie author needs for their books for over 20 years, 1106 provides formatting, cover design, interior design, eBook production, and even audiobook production that are at the same level of books launched by the top publishers in the country. And Michele is here to share the story of how this service came to be, how so many talented individuals have helped over the years, and how you can use their services to create a finished...2024-02-0635 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityKicking Doors Down with Podcast Producer Reena Friedman WattsFor this week's episode of Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with prolific fellow podcaster Reena Friedman Watts, host & producer of her show Better Call Daddy. Reena has worked behind the scenes in television for years and has taken her experiences and expertise to the world of podcasting. And as 2024 begins, Reena has dedicated herself to kicking doors down and building a community of creatives that support, encourage, and inspire each other. To subscribe to the Better Call Daddy Podcast, click HERE.Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network...2024-01-3054 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityRabbi Ezra Max Wants You to Spend 2024 Awakening the Leader WithinFor this week's episode of Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with Rabbi / Personal & Executive Coach / retired EMS Ezra Max. For years, Rabbi Ezra has been working with men, women, and children to help them unlock their own potential and be the leaders they want to be. And as we begin 2024, he is preparing a special leadership seminar that will be an ideal way to take your new year's resolutions and make them into a reality. For more information, please click HERE.Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network...2024-01-2351 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityCelebrating the Life of Cult Movie King Albert Pyun with Cynthia CurnanOn November 26, 2022, we lost a true Hollywood icon: Albert Pyun, the director of over 30 films who brought a unique style and consistent ability to make the most out of the tiniest budgets. And on December 2, Excelsior Journeys host & producer George Sirois had the honor of speaking with Albert's wife Cynthia Curnan, who was all too happy to share some wonderful stories about the man she stood beside for over 25 years, and who is working with Albert's collaborators to produce the upcoming documentary Albert Pyun: King of Cult Movies. Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a...2023-12-0535 min
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityGive Your Second Draft a Dash of TarantinoFor today's episode of Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois offers you something to think about for your second draft. Put in some ambiguity, find some spots in your draft where you can play with the setting and even play with time. Give your draft a dash of Tarantino and really throw your readers off-balance. Have some fun with it. But remember you got to finish the first draft first.Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as a platform for creatives...2023-11-2610 min
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityDo NOT Hit Delete!On today's episode of Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois has some very important advice for those who are planning to take out chunks of their drafts during the rewriting. Whatever you do, Don't! Hit! Delete! Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as a platform for creatives of all kinds (authors, filmmakers, stand-up comics, musicians, voice artists, painters, podcasters, etc) to share their journeys to personal success. It is very important to celebrate those voices as much as possible to not...2023-11-2514 min
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityThe Gold Mine of FailureIn this episode of Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois not only discusses how you can turn what others may label failures into the early steps of success; he also discusses the several failures of his story now known as From Parts Unknown, and how it became a very unexpected success. Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as a platform for creatives of all kinds (authors, filmmakers, stand-up comics, musicians, voice artists, painters, podcasters, etc) to share their journeys to personal...2023-11-2219 min
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityWhat's Your Book Soundtrack? I Want to Know!What music has been inspiring your National Novel Writing Month draft? What songs did you grab and put into a playlist so you can hear them over and over while the scenes come together in your mind? Host & producer George Sirois wants to know and he wants to share your Spotify playlist. Send it all over to george@hesgotit.com! Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as a platform for creatives of all kinds (authors, filmmakers, stand-up comics, musicians, voice artists...2023-11-2010 min
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityGet Into (and Then Out of) a RoutineIt's the week of Thanksgiving, so what are you going to do to shake up your routine as we're getting to the final days of National Novel Writing Month? Host & producer George Sirois has some ideas and he'd like to discuss them with you.Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as a platform for creatives of all kinds (authors, filmmakers, stand-up comics, musicians, voice artists, painters, podcasters, etc) to share their journeys to personal success. It is very important to celebrate...2023-11-1908 min
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityLet's Get Back to Work!For this very mini-episode of Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois has some very good news about what's been occupying his writing time over the past two weeks.Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as a platform for creatives of all kinds (authors, filmmakers, stand-up comics, musicians, voice artists, painters, podcasters, etc) to share their journeys to personal success. It is very important to celebrate those voices as much as possible to not only provide encouragement to up-and-coming talent, but to...2023-11-1804 min
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityMeanwhile...Now that he's ready to get back into his word count, host & producer George Sirois has a tip for those who are stuck in a specific spot with some of their characters. Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as a platform for creatives of all kinds (authors, filmmakers, stand-up comics, musicians, voice artists, painters, podcasters, etc) to share their journeys to personal success. It is very important to celebrate those voices as much as possible to not only provide encouragement to...2023-11-1809 min
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityYou're Halfway There!Have you been keeping up with your word count for the past 15 days? If so, guess what? You hit the halfway mark and host & producer George Sirois is ready to celebrate with you, even if getting caught up seems like a very difficult goal to accomplish over the next 15 days. Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as a platform for creatives of all kinds (authors, filmmakers, stand-up comics, musicians, voice artists, painters, podcasters, etc) to share their journeys to personal success...2023-11-1607 min
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityLife Finds a Way... to Get in the WayThanks to some unforeseen circumstances, host & producer George Sirois has had to hit pause on his manuscript for Greater Glory: Part Three in The Excelsior Journey, but at least the National Podcast Post Month Challenge is still going strong. Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as a platform for creatives of all kinds (authors, filmmakers, stand-up comics, musicians, voice artists, painters, podcasters, etc) to share their journeys to personal success. It is very important to celebrate those voices as much as...2023-11-1507 min
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityAuthor and Poet Dana Lockhart Wants You to Save the Date for National Poetry MonthDuring the annual trip to Archon in Collinsville, IL, host & producer George Sirois caught up with friend and fellow author Dana Lockhart (The Un-Life of William Moore), who had quite a bit to share about what happens every April: National Poetry Month. Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as a platform for creatives of all kinds (authors, filmmakers, stand-up comics, musicians, voice artists, painters, podcasters, etc) to share their journeys to personal success. It is very important to celebrate those voices...2023-11-1411 min
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityAre You Behind on Your NaNoWriMo Word Count? Stop Beating Yourself Up!We're on Day 13 of the National Novel Writing Month challenge, and by now, there are likely plenty of writers like host & producer George Sirois who have fallen behind on their word counts. Today, George has a very simple solution for the self-doubt they're likely feeling: forgive yourself, stop beating yourself up, calculate your word debt - the amount of words you've missed each day - and add the daily numbers to your word goals so you can reach the 50,000 word goal by November 30!Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.2023-11-1311 min
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityKeep Moving Forward!In this episode of Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois reminds all fellow NaNoWriMo participants that the object of this month is to keep moving forward. Don't look back and try to edit what you've done earlier that day or the day before. Focus on laying out your story from start to finish, and THEN go back and start the editing process.Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as a platform for creatives of all kinds (authors, filmmakers, stand-up comics, musicians...2023-11-1211 min
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityStep Away from Your Computer and Take a Walk!Host & producer George Sirois isn't ready to share his latest word count yet, but he does have a special assignment for all of you fellow NaNoWriMo participants. Step away from the monitor and take a walk around the block with music that's an ideal fit for your story. You never know what scenes or characters or full stories will come to mind once you hear the right piece of music to inspire you.Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as a...2023-11-1108 min
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityCalling All NaNoWriMo'ers!Calling all NaNoWriMo participants! Host & producer George Sirois wants to hear from you! How is your progress going? And what are you currently working on for NaNoWriMo? Tell me at george@hesgotit.com. Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as a platform for creatives of all kinds (authors, filmmakers, stand-up comics, musicians, voice artists, painters, podcasters, etc) to share their journeys to personal success. It is very important to celebrate those voices as much as possible to not only provide encouragement...2023-11-0906 min
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativitySometimes a Mini-Episode HelpsHost & producer George Sirois is sticking with his miniseries of micro-episodes and that's what we currently have available between now and tomorrow, November 10. How are you doing with your word count? Let me know so I can root as loud as possible for you.What are you currently working on for NaNoWriMo? Tell me at george@hesgotit.com. Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as a platform for creatives of all kinds (authors, filmmakers, stand-up comics, musicians, voice artists...2023-11-0805 min
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityBe Like Video Game Designer Anthony Briggs and Tell an Interactive StoryOn September 30, 2023, host & producer George Sirois met with several different creatives at the sci-fi / horror / fantasy convention known as Archon, and one special conversation he had was with Anthony Briggs, CEO of Frozen Dawn Entertainment. The two of them sat down in a fairly crowded room and not only discussed Anthony's career as a creative, but the latest concept that is slowly moving its way toward completion. What are you currently working on for NaNoWriMo? Tell me at george@hesgotit.com. Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.2023-11-0712 min
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityYou Have Homework!This episode of Excelsior Journeys may be the shortest (so far) of its five-year-long run, but to make up for it, host & producer George Sirois is giving you NaNoWriMo participants a little bit of homework. What are you currently working on for NaNoWriMo? Tell me at george@hesgotit.com. Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as a platform for creatives of all kinds (authors, filmmakers, stand-up comics, musicians, voice artists, painters, podcasters, etc) to share their journeys to personal...2023-11-0604 min
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativitySet the Clocks Back Just One Hour, Setting This Episode Back Several HoursIt's posted much later than usual, but host & producer George Sirois is still keeping up to date with his daily podcast posts AND the daily word count for Greater Glory: Part Three in The Excelsior Journey. George is currently up to 8500 words and gets to talk more about the accompanying challenge that's been met by his 6-year-old daughter.What are you currently working on for NaNoWriMo? Tell me at george@hesgotit.com. Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as...2023-11-0511 min
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityI Got Mail!For today's episode of the NaNoWriMo / NaPodPoMo hybrid challenge, host & producer George Sirois not only celebrates passing 6000 words; he also gets to read his first piece of mail from a listener.What are you currently working on for NaNoWriMo? Tell me at george@hesgotit.com. Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as a platform for creatives of all kinds (authors, filmmakers, stand-up comics, musicians, voice artists, painters, podcasters, etc) to share their journeys to personal success. It is very...2023-11-0414 min
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityThank You, Jon Favreau!We're on Day 3 of the National Novel Writing Month / National Podcast Post Month Challenges, and host & producer George Sirois has reached 4058 words after two days. This episode features a look behind the scenes at the support system that everyone needs to accomplish challenges like these, and how a special scene in Jon Favreau's film Chef inspired George to invite his young daughter to join him in the book writing. What are you currently working on for NaNoWriMo? Tell me at george@hesgotit.com. Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by...2023-11-0312 min
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityHow Was Day 1 of NaNoWriMo for You?National Novel Writing Month 2023 started off strong for host & producer (and National Podcast Post Month challenge participant) George Sirois. 2,548 words have been accounted for on Day 1, and I'm always looking for more accountability so just click HERE to join the Buddy List on the NaNoWriMo site. What are you currently working on for NaNoWriMo? Tell me at george@hesgotit.com. Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as a platform for creatives of all kinds (authors, filmmakers, stand-up comics, musicians...2023-11-0211 min
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityThe NaNoWriMo and NaPodPoMo Challenge Officially Begins!Here it is, Wednesday November 1. And this is the start of a miniseries in the Excelsior Journeys podcast called Reaching for Greater Glory. This is a combination of National Novel Writing Month and the National Podcast Post Month challenge, and host & producer George Sirois is here to share a bit of what to expect all month. Yes, Excelsior Journeys is going daily for the month of November and I hope you stick around for the ride!What are you currently working on for NaNoWriMo? Tell me at george@hesgotit.com. Subscribe to all shows in...2023-11-0111 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityAre You Ready for National Novel Writing Month 2023?Wednesday, November 1, is the first day of National Novel Writing Month AND the National Podcast Post Month Challenge. And for this doubly-busy occasion, host and producer George Sirois is taking part in both challenges at once. The next draft of Greater Glory: Part Three in The Excelsior Journey will be written, and the progress will be documented in a series of daily posts on the podcast. What are you currently working on for NaNoWriMo? Tell me at george@hesgotit.com. Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.2023-10-3107 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityPrepare for NaNoWriMo 2023 by Building Your Own Writing Community!This week on Excelsior Journeys, we're taking a step back to one month ago to Archon in Collinsville, IL. Host & producer George Sirois joined fellow authors LaShaunda Hoffman, Jamie Krakover, and St. Louis Writers Guild President Jessica Mathews on a panel discussing community building among writers, which is the perfect topic to present right before National Novel Writing Month begins on November 1. Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as a platform for creatives of all kinds (authors, filmmakers, stand-up comics, musicians...2023-10-241h 01Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityFilmmaker Mark Redfield is Doing His Part to Keep the Audio Drama AliveAs we celebrate the 85th anniversary of Orson Welles' infamous radio dramatization of H.G. Wells' War of the Worlds, Excelsior Journeys host & producer George Sirois welcomes filmmaker and audio drama expert Mark Redfield. The two not only discuss the influence Welles had on this art form, but how excited they are for its future through podcasting. They also discuss Mark's history in filmmaking with a special emphasis on his feature film The Death of Poe and his very personal project Cold Harbor, among others. Subscribe to Mark's YouTube page and get caught up on all of...2023-10-171h 04Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityCelebrating Five Years of Excelsior JourneysOn this very special episode of Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois takes a victory lap to celebrate five years of this weekly interview podcast. He answers listener-submitted questions, plays a few clips from previous episodes, shares some behind-the-scenes stories, and more!Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as a platform for creatives of all kinds (authors, filmmakers, stand-up comics, musicians, voice artists, painters, podcasters, etc) to share their journeys to personal success. It is very important to celebrate those voices...2023-10-1048 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityAuthor and Writing Teacher Lale Davidson is Taking You Beyond Sight!This week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois is starting the month of October in the best possible way: by introducing you to Lale Davidson. Lale is not only an award-winning author of magical realism & fantasy, but this week she is celebrating the launch of her latest novel Beyond Sight. In addition to her books currently for sale, Lale is also preparing the next generation of authors as a writing teacher, which she shares with us this week. Get your copy of Beyond Sight by clicking HERE.Subscribe to all shows in the Once...2023-10-0358 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityAm I Ending International Podcast Month with A Podcast?! Of Course!This week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois wraps up the International Podcast Month trilogy with a visit by the hosts of the new show simply titled, "A Podcast?!" After years of listening to various podcasts, Theresa Stoddard and Mitchell Regan finally started their own, focusing on all aspects of popular culture and bringing their own opinions to different topics each week. Subscribe to A Podcast?! by clicking HERE.Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as a platform...2023-09-2638 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityAuthor and Podcaster LaShaunda Hoffman Wants a Conversation with You, Not an InterviewThis week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois continues his 3-part miniseries celebrating other podcasters, just in time for International Podcasting Month, by sitting down with author & podcaster LaShaunda Hoffman. As the showrunner of the Sormag Writer's Cafe podcast, LaShaunda has spent the past several years maintaining a prime location for independent authors to come on and share who they are and what they write. She has created a wonderfully relaxing atmosphere in all of her episodes by setting each one up as conversations, not interviews. LaShaunda's main page for the Sormag Writer's Cafe can be...2023-09-1959 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityAuthor, Speaker, Podcaster Bob Baker Proves Over 350K Subscribers Can't Be Wrong!This week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois starts a 3-part miniseries celebrating other podcasters, just in time for International Podcasting Month, by sitting down with author, podcaster, improvisation coach, musician, motivational speaker Bob Baker. Bob has been building his brand for several decades now, and has built up a following of over 350,000 subscribers on his YouTube page. The two discuss Bob's time as a stand-up comedian, working with his improv students, making the move to audio and video, and much more!Bob's YouTube page, featuring his daily morning affirmations, is HERE.Subscribe to...2023-09-1250 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityCelebrating 20 Years of Carnivale with Creator Daniel KnaufThis week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois is celebrating the 20th anniversary of HBO's acclaimed series Carnivale with the show's creator Daniel Knauf. George & Daniel discuss the initial inspiration that led to Daniel sitting down and writing a screenplay while working as a health insurance broker, the decision to turn it from a feature film into a television series, the path that led to HBO, the development of the show, and the culmination of this epic collision of good and evil. Daniel's complete archive of his work - both seen and unseen - can be...2023-09-0500 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityAuthor and Hemingway Scholar Ann Putnam Will Leave You Never!This episode of Excelsior Journeys is sponsored by author Mark R Klinger.This week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois wraps up this month of discussions with inspiring professional creatives that want to remind you that you are not alone! Ann Putnam is an ideal choice to complete this miniseries because she's not only a successful author and Hemingway Scholar; she is also a teacher of both high school and college students who has dedicated herself to preparing the latest generation of authors. Purchase your copy of I Will Leave You Never by clicking...2023-08-2943 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityAuthor, Speaker, Life Coach Rachel Lavin is Your Guide on the Path to Personal FitnessThis episode of Excelsior Journeys is sponsored by author Edward Rollins.This week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois welcomes the latest guest to prove that whatever personal journey you are on, it doesn't have to be alone. Certified fitness instructor and public speaker Rachel Lavin has not only helped different people reach the level of personal fitness that makes them truly happy, but she continues to help others with the launch of the book that documents her own journey: The Doughnut Diaries.Purchase your copy of The Doughnut Diaries by clicking HERE.2023-08-2233 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityAuthor, Illustrator, Animator John Celestri Gave Us the First "Book of Boba Fett"This episode of Excelsior Journeys is sponsored by author Michael Beardslee.This week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois continues his month-long celebration of other creatives who are using their personal outlets to show you that you are not alone. Over 40 years ago, author / illustrator / animator John Celestri collaborated with a group of other animators to present a specific portion of one of the most infamous television programs of all time: The Star Wars Holiday Special. While the full special is looked at with either mocking laughter or shock / disgust, the overall opinion of the animated...2023-08-151h 11Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityPoetry was Anastasia Lindsey's Savior and It Can Be Yours Too!This episode of Excelsior Journeys is sponsored by author Katie Spina.This week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois continues his month-long celebration of other creatives who are using their personal outlets to show you that you are not alone. Poet Anastasia Lindsey has felt this ever since she discovered poetry and started writing her own. This has led her to share more work as a public speaker, continue guesting on other podcasts to increase the range of her mission statement, and preparing her first book of poems for purchase at all retailers available. ...2023-08-0845 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityAuthors Rebecca Jaycox and MA Phipps Show How Collaborations Can Be KickstartedThis episode of Excelsior Journeys is sponsored by author Andrew Allen Smith.This week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois starts his month-long miniseries simply titled "You Are Not Alone." This begins with a conversation with one of the most successful collaborations in indie publishing today: authors Rebecca Jaycox & MA (Molly) Phipps. After working as an editor and a cover designer at the now-defunct Aelurus Publishing, Jaycox & Phipps decided to join forces and tell a sweeping epic paranormal young adult trilogy entitled The Origin Prophecy. Once the trilogy was complete, the two decided to take it...2023-08-0139 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityThe Journey of Actor Bishop Stevens from the Squared Circle to the Big Screen and Beyond!This week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with award-winning actor Bishop Stevens. A regular in the midwest creative community, Bishop trained with wrestling legend Harley Race and worked for both World Championship Wrestling and the World Wrestling Federation before making the transition to acting in both television and movies. After working with entertainers such as Gary Busey, Thom Mathews, CM Punk, and Malcolm McDowell, Bishop is now ready to take center stage by leading his biggest and most ambitious project yet: The Baton Rogue Serial Killer, a biopic based on the notorious serial killer Derrick...2023-07-2548 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityIndulge in Some Pop Music and Peanut Butter with Author Ryan K BomanThis week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with fellow author and 411Mania.com alum Ryan K. Boman. The two of them discuss Ryan's history as a journalist, part of which is the time they shared as columnists for the wrestling & pop culture website 411Mania.com, and how the years of writing culminated in Ryan's new book Pop Music & Peanut Butter, available where all retailers are sold. Purchase your copy of Ryan's book Pop Music & Peanut Butter by clicking HERE.Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by...2023-07-181h 14Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityThe Unfettered Journey of Author, Philosopher, Technologist Gary F. BengierThis week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois welcomes award-winning author, philosopher, and technologist Gary F. Bengier. With a background in technology that includes acting as the first CFO of eBay, Gary's knowledge of the field combined with a lifelong love of science-fiction led to him writing the acclaimed novel Unfettered Journey. During their conversation on this episode, George & Gary also discuss the pitfalls and the promises that come with the rise of AI and its use in books, artwork, television, film, and more. Get your copy of Unfettered Journey - available on all formats...2023-07-1035 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativitySeason Seven of the Podcast Comes with Perks You Can Hear AND See!Welcome to Season Seven of the Excelsior Journeys Podcast! In this brief episode, host & producer George Sirois introduces the (as of now) three tiers of membership for those who want to show their support for this podcast and would enjoy some additional content, both audio and video.Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as a platform for creatives of all kinds (authors, filmmakers, stand-up comics, musicians, voice artists, painters, podcasters, etc) to share their journeys to personal success. It is very...2023-07-0420 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityZombies for Kids? Author and Illustrator Holly Michele Made it Happen!This week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois finishes the 6th season of the podcast by sitting down with author & illustrator Holly Michele. With several children's book series to her credit, her subjects of choice go from a series about the life of a narwhal to Edgar Allen Poe adaptations to the Jersey Devil. She even goes far beyond the expectations for a children's book with her series "Zombies for Kids." Read Holly's books by clicking HERE.Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The...2023-06-2741 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityCelebrating Audiobook Month with "Anger is Your Compass" Author Moshe RatsonThis week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois gets to personally thank the man who gave him the chance to narrate his first non-fiction audiobook: Moshe Ratson, the author of "Anger is Your Compass." The two discuss how Moshe dedicated himself to learning all about how anger is not something to be controlled and repressed, but as a guide toward inner balance. Get your copy of "Anger is Your Compass" on audiobook by clicking HERE.Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys...2023-06-2030 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityFrom Trafficked to Triumphant: Author, Speaker, Survivor Amanda BlackwoodTRIGGER WARNING: THIS WEEK'S EPISODE FOCUSES ON TOPICS THAT SOME LISTENERS MAY FEEL ARE TOO INTENSE. LISTENER DISCRETION IS ADVISED.This week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois is proud to welcome author / public speaker Amanda Blackwood. Amanda is open and candid about her life's story that deals with family betrayal, sexual assault, human trafficking, and so much more. Instead of allowing these outside forces to destroy her, she has since taken back her voice and her power and transformed it into over a dozen books, both fiction and non-fiction. She has also become a public...2023-06-1353 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityLighting a Miner's Candle with Author, Songwriter, and Filmmaker Manuela SchneiderThe next 200 episodes of Excelsior Journeys have begun with host & producer George Sirois sitting down with fellow author, songwriter, and filmmaker Manuela Schneider. Ever since childhood, Manuela has had a fascination and love of the Old West, and that has resulted in the writing of several novels that take place in that area, as well as an award-winning short film called "Miner's Candle." Enjoy the short film "Miner's Candle" by clicking HERE.Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as...2023-06-0657 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityTaking a Victory Lap with Episode 200!Over four years have passed since the first three episodes of Excelsior Journeys went live in October 2018, and this week producer & host George Sirois takes his victory lap with Episode 200! Joining him on the show is author, video podcaster, and friend Bethanie DeVors, and highlights from this look back over the previous 199 episodes include questions asked and answered about getting guests for your podcasts (take notes), keeping the enthusiasm going after so many weeks, the joy that comes with an unexpected offer to assist with getting all episodes listed on IMDb, and shout-outs to many of the guests and...2023-05-301h 21Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityGet Ready for Some True Crime Haunted Mayhem with Podcaster Brandy NacoleThis week on Excelsior Journeys, host and producer George Sirois welcomes author Brandy Nacole to discuss her latest venture: joining the Once Upon a Podcast Network with her new show - and the first true crime show on the schedule - Haunted Mayhem. Check out Haunted Mayhem and subscribe by clicking HERE.Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.The Excelsior Journeys podcast exists primarily as a platform for creatives of all kinds (authors, filmmakers, stand-up comics, musicians, voice artists, painters, podcasters, etc) to share their...2023-05-2335 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityEnjoy a Bit-A-Boo with Author and Paranormal Podcaster Rue VolleyThis week on Excelsior Journeys, host and producer George Sirois welcomes the latest addition to the Once Upon a Podcast Network: author, musician, and now podcaster Rue Volley. She has debuted her new show Bit-A-Boo (our first paranormal show) on the podcast network and has been having so much fun recording with her co-host, Stacey Rourke (also of Mimesis). The conversation was quite spirited, to say the least.Check out Bit-A-Boo and subscribe by clicking HERE.Subscribe to all shows in the Once Upon a Podcast Network by clicking HERE.Want to be...2023-05-1641 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityEnjoy a Cup of Starlight Tea with Podcast Hosts Kristie Cook and Belinda BoringOn this week's episode of Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois sits down with authors / podcasters Kristie Cook & Belinda Boring, the co-hosts of Starlight Tea, which is the latest addition to the Once Upon a Podcast Network. Subscribe to their show by clicking HERE. Want to be an in-demand podcast guest? Join the Endless Stages Challenge and you'll become one in less than 100 days. I'm so proud to be an affiliate for this challenge, and I invite you - creatives from all walks of life - to click on this link HERE.Click...2023-04-2547 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityThe Once Upon a Podcast Network Presents Melissa Hurt, Host of The Genuine CreativeThe Once Upon a Podcast Network is alive! With Excelsior Journeys, Mimesis, and Money Over Easy all wearing the OUAPN logo, these are the first shows aimed at inspiring, motivating, educating, celebrating, and - with our new show The Genuine Creative - rejuvenating creatives of all kinds! This week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois welcomes the host & producer of The Genuine Creative, Melissa Hurt.Subscribe to The Genuine Creative by clicking HERE.Want to be an in-demand podcast guest? Join the Endless Stages Challenge and you'll become one in less than 100 days. I'm...2023-04-0431 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityPodcaster and Audio Drama Producer Alex Squires is Fully Aware that Opinions May VaryThis week on Excelsior Journeys, host and producer George Sirois sits down with fellow podcaster and audio drama producer Alex Squires. Alex has been podcasting almost twice as long as George has, and he has built up a catalog of 400 episodes of his show "Opinions May Vary." He has proven himself to be a truly valuable asset for those who want to get into podcasting and beyond, and he has a lot of stories to share about how his podcast started, how it developed after the first year, and how it wrapped up right before Alex decided to shift...2023-03-1459 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityMeet the Founders of the Once Upon a Podcast Network (Part 1)This February, the Once Upon a Podcast Network will officially launch with Excelsior Journeys, Mimesis, and eight other shows - both already established and brand-new. This week on the Excelsior Journeys podcast, host, producer, and network co-founder George Sirois speaks with two of his three partners in this venture: COO Sandra Schaer-Fisackerly and CFO Tricia Daniel. Both are hosting or co-hosting their own shows that will provide resources to creatives everywhere who look to find their own personal Happily Ever Afters.Want to be an in-demand podcast guest? Join the Endless Stages Challenge and you'll become one...2023-01-2425 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityAward-Winning Author Ann Charles is Taking Us All to Deadwood!This week on the Excelsior Journeys podcast, host and producer George Sirois sits down for a long overdue conversation with multi-award-winning author Ann Charles. Ann and George met while part of a Blog Tour de Force event hosted by the Indie Book Collective in January 2011, and both were introduced to each other's writing by reading & reviewing Excelsior and Nearly Departed in Deadwood, the first of Ann's Deadwood Mysteries series. Over ten years later, with the release of Ann's fourth book in her prequel Deadwood Undertaker series, the two have finally met face-to-face so Ann can share her own journey...2023-01-1058 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityCelebrating the Season 5 Finale and 30 Years of Excelsior with Story Editor JeriAnn GellerIt's the season 5 finale of the Excelsior Journeys Podcast, and host & producer George Sirois is celebrating by looking back over 30 years of creating, refining, and ultimately writing about his character Excelsior. Since his creation in 1992, Excelsior has inspired a trilogy of young adult / science-fiction novels, an upcoming audio drama that will be performed on Clubhouse in early 2023, and this very podcast. And it's safe to say that 99 percent of you still haven't heard of him, but that's what this episode is all about. Join George and his long-time friend, story editor, and mentor JeriAnn Geller as they discuss the...2022-12-271h 38Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityHost and Producer George Sirois Has Some Stories and a Big Announcement!It's Part 2 of the 2-part 4-year anniversary special of Excelsior Journeys. Here, host & producer George Sirois answers some questions given to him about how the show got started, about the steepest learning curve that came with starting a podcast, and about what the future holds for Excelsior Journeys. Be sure to listen in as 2023 will be the launch for a brand new venture for this show and nine others.Want to be an in-demand podcast guest? Join the Endless Stages Challenge and you'll become one in less than 100 days. I'm so proud to be an affiliate for...2022-10-1117 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityHost and Producer George Sirois Recalls His 2019 Call to ActionIt's Part 1 of the 2-part 4-year anniversary special of Excelsior Journeys. Here, host & producer George Sirois recalls a special Call to Action episode he recorded in 2019. Hopefully there will be more people listening to it this time, as well as more people hoping to get their creative works out there. Do you have a question to post for the upcoming Q&A to be recorded Monday night 10/11? Let me know by going HERE.Want to be an in-demand podcast guest? Join the Endless Stages Challenge and you'll become one in less than 100 days. I'm so...2022-10-0422 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityWe're Going From Duck Till Dark This Week with Spider-Man!This week on Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois is in his final preparations for a presentation he is giving at Archon this weekend, on October 1 at 6pm, called "How James Bond Saved Spider-Man." So to get everyone in the mood for this, George is presenting a very special episode from his second podcast - "From Duck Till Dark: Outside the Marvel Studios" - which focuses on the 2002 film Spider-Man. Want to be an in-demand podcast guest? Join the Endless Stages Challenge and you'll become one in less than 100 days. I'm so proud to be an affiliate...2022-09-2737 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityHorror Host Ivonna Cadaver Returns with TerrorTalk Host Michael B and Psychic Medium Heather CampbellMacabre Theatre Host Ivonna Cadaver has made her long-awaited return to Excelsior Journeys as she and host & producer George Sirois sit down with Michael B of the TerrorTalk podcast and psychic medium Heather Campbell. The four of them enjoyed a spirited conversation on Facebook Live, discussing some upcoming segments on YTA's Macabre Theatre with Ivonna and Mike sharing the small screen, Heather's experiences as a paranormal investigator, George's news on what to expect for Excelsior Journeys, and more!Want to be an in-demand podcast guest? Join the Endless Stages Challenge and you'll become one in less than 100...2022-06-071h 00Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityThe Legend of Broadcaster Mike SeibertIn 2021, radio personality and podcaster Mike Seibert welcomed George Sirois into a Transformers group on Facebook filled with thousands of fans and a collection of voice actors, writers, showrunners, and more! It set the stage for the TransFormers: The Movie 35th Anniversary Retrospective month on Excelsior Journeys in August 2021. This week, George was finally able to welcome Mike to the podcast so he could share his epic journey through radio broadcasting and podcasting. Sit back and get comfortable, Mike has a truly inspiring tale to share.Want to be an in-demand podcast guest? Join the Endless Stages...2022-04-191h 42Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityAuthor and Podcaster Jason Meuschke Has Some Sample Chapters to Send YouIn 2018, author and podcaster Jason Meuschke became the first host to invite Excelsior Journeys host and producer George Sirois on to talk about his show. Now, George and Jason finally reunite on Excelsior Journeys so Jason could share his journey and his show - The Sample Chapter Podcast - with listeners. They discuss the current books Jason is writing himself, how he started his podcast, some of his favorite guest interactions, and much more!Want to be an in-demand podcast guest? Join the Endless Stages Challenge and you'll become one in less than 100 days. I'm so proud...2022-04-1245 min
Excelsior Journeys: The Road to Creativity”Til All Are One!” - The Legacy of TransFormers: The MovieDonate to the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3fldx2L
It's Part 5 of the Excelsior Journeys 5-part miniseries celebrating the 35th anniversary of TransFormers: The Movie, and host & producer George Sirois has concluded his month - and Season 3 of the podcast - with Hasbro designers Mark Maher and Evan Brooks. They not only share how this film inspired them from childhood, but they provide lots of details about Hasbro's Studio Series line, presenting some of the most detailed and most intricate figures in the entire TransFormers line. George also presents...2021-08-311h 12Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityDebut Author Natalie Cammaratta Tells All About Falling and UprisingSpecial Thanks to Mains Playing Cards for sponsoring Excelsior Journeys throughout the month of July: https://mainsplayingcards.com/
There are so many thriving writing communities around the state of Missouri, and this week, host & producer George Sirois sits down with Kansas City's latest author Natalie Cammaratta to discuss her debut Young Adult novel Falling & Uprising. They discuss Natalie's inspiration, her discovery of the writing community in Kansas City, her path to getting a literary agent (shout-out to George's agent Amy Brewer for putting Natalie on the path to representation at Metamorphosis Literary Agency), her upcoming launch party...2021-07-1337 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityPodcaster and Clubpod Rep Melissa Bright Wants to Celebrate Your Wins on ClubhouseIt's Part 2 of the Excelsior Journeys Clubhouse miniseries, and this week host & producer George Sirois sits down with fellow podcaster Melissa Bright. Melissa tells her story of how she got into podcasting with her show "The Bright Side of Life," how Clubhouse opened the door to being a representative for ClubPod - the best podcast-related group on the app - and much more.
UPDATE: Clubhouse is now available to Android users! So if you would like an invite, please send a screenshot of your subscription to Excelsior Journeys (on Apple Podcasts or any of the other dozen...2021-05-1145 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityVoice Actors Ellie Rodz and Aly Del Vee Have Opened Their Clubhouse to You!It is Part 1 of the Clubhouse mini-series for Excelsior Journeys, and to celebrate this audio-based app - and get the Android users acquainted with it - host & producer George Sirois welcomes voice actors Ellie Rodz and Aly Del Vee. The two share their experiences with getting into VO, discovering Clubhouse and quickly falling in love with it, collaborating on their own club within the app, the 529 Voice Over Competition (where Ellie, Aly, and George made the Top 16 semi-finals after over a hundred competitors), and more!
This episode has been sponsored by the anthology All Things Weird and...2021-05-0452 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityHost and Producer George Sirois Has an Excelsior Journey to ShareIn February of 2021, host & producer George Sirois sat down with bestselling author (and previous guest) Amy Hale on her YouTube show Creative As Hale (Best. Title. Ever.) to discuss his own journey as an international bestselling author, voice actor, audiobook narrator, and podcaster. To celebrate Episode 80, here is the complete audio from that conversation, which included a Q&A from YouTube Live viewers (George's mother and aunt were among the viewers).
Creative As Hale is part of The Rising Tide Broadcast Network: https://www.facebook.com/RisingTideBroadcastNetwork
Amy's show Creative As Hale can be found h...2021-03-221h 42Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityActress Catia Ojeda and Writer/Director Alex Goldberg Gave Us ClosureWith several film festival official selections and awards given to the dark comedy Closure, it's safe to say that actress Catia Ojeda and writer/director Alex Goldberg make a terrific team, both professionally and personally. And this week, they both sat down with host & producer George Sirois to discuss their respective Excelsior Journeys in both theatre and film.
Enjoy their award-winning film Closure for free here:
Amazon Prime: http://bit.ly/ClosureMovie
Roku: https://bit.ly/ClosureRoku
TubiTV: http://bit.ly/ClosureOnTubi
Pay for rental or purchase:
Google Play: http://bit.ly/ClosureGooglePlay
You Tube: http://bit.ly/Closure...2021-03-1655 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityMagical Mindset Coach Tracy StatenThis week, host & producer George Sirois sat down with Tracy Staten, performance coach and founder of Magical Mindset, a program dedicated to tapping into your passions and bringing them out in ways you never thought possible. We discussed how she realized her calling in life, the steps she's taken to making it a reality, what she offers to potential clients, and more!
Stay to the end to hear some more New Year's Resolutions from listeners, and don't forget to send me yours so you can hear your own voice on a podcast. Send an audio recording of...2021-01-1248 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityAuthor, Audiobook Narrator, and Excelsior Journeys Host & Producer George SiroisFor the Season 2 finale of Excelsior Journeys, host & producer George Sirois reached out to listeners and readers for questions to answer about his history as a writer, his experiences as an up-and-coming audiobook narrator, the future of the podcast for 2021 and beyond, and more!
For the applications for both guests and sponsors, please visit www.hesgotit.com/excelsiorjourneys.
For George's direct sales store and to order an Excelsior Journeys t-shirt from Bonfire.com, please visit www.hesgotit.com/store.
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/excelsior-journeys/donations2020-12-221h 01Excelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityQ and A Episode with George Sirois and Previous GuestsFor the 25th episode of Excelsior Journeys, host George Sirois takes a break from the regular format to answer a question from a listener, and share the answers to a question he offered to his previous guests.
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/excelsior-journeys/donations2019-03-1426 minExcelsior Journeys: The Road to CreativityArchon 42 Part 1 - StorytellingOn Sunday, October 14, 2018, host George Sirois moderated a panel at St. Louis' sci-fi & fantasy convention Archon 42 (www.archonstl.org) called "Storytelling: A Modern Take on the Oral Tradition." His fellow authors on the panel were Brad R. Cook (The Iron Chronicles), Camille Faye (Voodoo Butterfly), and Jennifer Stolzer (Threadcaster, Dog Park), and they were gracious to allow the panel to be recorded.
On this first of two year-end bonus episodes of Excelsior Journeys, George Sirois presents the complete panel with Q&A from the attendees.
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/excelsior-journeys/donations2018-12-181h 02