Shows
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge PlayersEat Like Gold: David Gold on Bridge, Food, and Playing with LegendsThis is a long anticipated conversation for our host John McAllister as he finally sits down with English star David Gold. David considers himself lucky to play with legends Zia Mahmood for the North American Bridge Championships and Andrew Robson for the English open team. Fresh off competing in the European Bridge Championships in Poznań, Poland, David shares insights into his bridge journey, memorable stories, and his passion for food, highlighted by his new Instagram project, Eat Like Gold. Key Highlights: 🍽️ Food Adventures: The seeds for this episode took place between rounds of the European champi...2025-07-171h 27
The Drunken Odyssey with John King: A Podcast About the Writing Life675: Tom McAllister!On this episode, John speaks with Tom McAllister about writing burnout, writing prompts, revision, and discovery, as well as Tom's wonderful new collection of flash memoirs, It All Felt Impossible.2025-06-141h 06The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge PlayersEp. 98: From Control Room to Card Table: Tracy Brines' Unique Journey in Bridge and Nuclear PowerIn this captivating episode, John McAllister welcomes Tracy Brines, whose extraordinary background spans naval service, nuclear power plant operations, and competitive bridge. Tracy reveals engaging stories from his Navy days, shares intense experiences from his time managing nuclear power plant control rooms, and discusses how these high-stakes roles shaped his bridge-playing strategies. Tune in to explore Tracy's journey—from his introduction to bridge in college, navigating intense military deployments, to competing in national bridge tournaments alongside his wife. Key Highlights: ⚓ From Navy to Nuclear: Tracy explains how rigorous Navy training prepared him for high-pressure roles in n...2025-06-121h 10The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge PlayersEp. 97: From Hearts to Champion: John McAllister’s Personal Bridge OdysseyIn a special solo episode, John McAllister shares his own personal journey into the world of bridge. John takes listeners from his first bridge game with Aunt Kathleen to major tournament wins, highlighting the mentors, friends, and unexpected encounters that shaped his bridge career. Listen in for heartfelt anecdotes, insights into learning bridge, and John’s reflections on pivotal moments and memorable players he met along the way. Key Highlights: 🎲 First Steps in Bridge: Discover how a casual game with family sparked John's lifelong passion for bridge. 🌉 Learning the Ropes: John recalls e...2025-06-0518 minThe Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge PlayersEp. 96: From Underdogs to USA-1: Inside Adam Grossack’s Epic Bridge VictoryIn this unforgettable episode, John McAllister sits down with Adam Grossack, fresh off his team's stunning victory in the US Open Trials. Adam shares candid stories from the tournament, detailing how his four-handed team navigated intense matches, strategic pairings, and unexpected twists to claim the prestigious USA-1 spot in the Bermuda Bowl. Dive into behind-the-scenes insights on the team dynamics, preparation tactics, and pivotal hands that shaped their incredible run. Key Takeaways from This Episode: 🎯 Strategic Team Building: Adam reveals why pairing with veteran Eddie Wold and allowing younger teammates Adam Kaplan and Finn to sor...2025-05-2959 minThe Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge PlayersEp. 95: Cheating, Convictions, and Compassion: Inside the American Contract Bridge League’s Recorder's Office with Jeff EdelsteinEver feel like you have been cheated playing bridge online? Have you taken the time to report the pair by filing a player memo? Join John McAllister as he sits down with Jeff Edelstein, the ACBL recorder and a Grand Life Master, for a revealing conversation about the nuances of cheating detection, ethical prosecution, and the human stories behind bridge's biggest integrity challenges. From Edgar, the cutting-edge cheating detection software, to personal anecdotes and behind-the-scenes insights, this episode unpacks the complexities of keeping bridge fair, and human. Key Takeaways from This Episode: 🎖️ Grand Life Master: Jeff...2025-05-221h 12The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge PlayersEp. 94: From Iceland to Delray: Svenni Eiriksson on Friendship, Risk, and ReinventionWhat happens when a car rental mishap, a spur-of-the-moment bridge partnership, and a life-changing move from Iceland to Florida collide? You get Svenni Eiriksson, a bridge player whose story is equal parts hilarious, heartfelt, and deeply human. John McAllister sits down with his former partner and friend to relive the many twists, laughs, and breakthroughs of Svenni’s journey from Icelandic tournaments to an NABC win in the U.S. More than just a fun loving, lover of laughing, Svenni impressed John, as his partner by pulling off a trump coup without breaking a sweat. Svenni shares how...2025-05-151h 29The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge PlayersEp. 93: John’s Jumbled Auction |It’s Your Call!|2025-05-0846 minThe Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge PlayersEp. 92: Lynn Castoldi – Winning with Joy, Scarves & SpadesIn this episode, John interviews Lynn Castoldi, fresh off two huge wins at the Spring NABC — the 10K Knockout Teams and the Women's Swiss Teams, the latter by a razor-thin margin of just 0.13 VPs. With her signature laugh, Lynn shares the stories behind her victories, her partnership with Ann Karin Fuglestad, and how she went from getting kicked out of bridge lessons at a senior center to becoming a national champion. Along the way, we hear about bridge cruises, recruiting Egyptian pros on BBO, and the stylish team scarves that helped tie it all together. Whether she's pl...2025-05-0132 minThe Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge PlayersEp. 91: Dennis Bilde – The Danish AceIn this episode, John sits down with Dennis Bilde, one of Denmark’s top bridge talents and a player with a reputation for being both formidable at the table and fun to be around. Dennis shares stories of missing flights, winning world championships, and his early card-playing days before discovering bridge. The conversation dives into partnership dynamics, life with two young kids, and how Danish coffee might be the bridge world's best-kept secret. From his time on the Lavazza team to his upcoming appearance at the Bermuda Bowl on home soil, Dennis reflects on what it means to grow, bo...2025-04-241h 23The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge PlayersEp 88: Ami Zamir – From Fishbein Glory to FatherhoodIn this episode of The Setting Trick, John welcomes his friend and bridge phenom Ami Zamir—one half of the ACBL’s top-ranked pair of 2023. From winning major events to missing the final session of a national championship for the birth of his daughter, Ami shares the highs, the heart, and the hustle of life as a rising star in the world of competitive bridge. Ami opens up about his journey from high school sweethearts to fatherhood, his chess obsession, and what it’s like to chase glory across Europe and the U.S. with partner Oren Teloda...2025-04-201h 29
Product Mastery Now for Product Managers, Leaders, and Innovators535: What students at Daemen University learn about innovation that you should know too – with John SperoThe most important takeaways from past episodes of Product Mastery Now
TLDR
Product innovation requires deliberate approaches to teamwork, problem-solving, and customer understanding. John Spero, former senior R&D manager and current innovation professor, highlighted frameworks and methodologies that help product teams work effectively together. These include using tools like DISC assessments to build stronger teams, applying Design Thinking approaches to understand customer needs, and using creative problem-solving techniques to tackle innovation challenges systematically.
Key Topics
Building innovation cultures and effective product teams
Using DISC assessments to improve team dynamics and productivity
Applying Design Thinking frameworks to solve...2025-04-1437 minThe Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge PlayersEpisode 81: Owen Lien Does It All In BridgeJohn McAllister chats with 35-year-old Owen Lien of Oak Park MI about Junior Bridge, directing on BBO, playing professionally and reaching highs and lows in national events. Owen has won two limited NABC events: The 10K Swiss in 2016 and the 0–5000 Mini Spingold in 2009. He was second in those same events in 2014 and 2007. A Platinum Life Master with over 18,000 masterpoints – 10,000 of them gold and 2100 platinum – Owen is a hardworking player who loves the game and still plays for fun at the club. 2024-10-011h 15The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge PlayersEpisode 79: Boss Ladies of Bridge – Ladawna Parham and Bronia JenkinsJust before the Toronto NABC, John sat down with Ladawna Parham, executive director of the ACBL Educational Foundation, and Bronia Jenkins, executive director of the ACBL. Jenkins, “one year in,” still has the energy and vision she started with, if not more. Parham, who took the position in November, has had to start from the ground up, with no bridge experience (although she did do her own research prior to getting the job). She is amazed at the depth and vitality of the bridge world. Listen to how these two women are working together within their organizations to e...2024-08-0254 minThe Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge PlayersEp. 78 - Gavin Wolpert is committed to making you the best bridge player you can be!John welcomes back his first-ever guest, Gavin Wolpert, a seven-time NABC winner, including the 2021 Soloway Knockout and the 2005 Blue Ribbon Pairs with his wife, Jenny, and a two-time bronze medal winner in Open World Championships. Gavin is one of the internet's favorite Bridge teachers, using interactive problems to allow students to make mistakes and learn from them, emphasizing practice as an essential component in becoming a better bridge player, and implementing technology to provide opportunities for targeted practice. Gavin shares his thoughts on the need for more structured and accessible bridge programs for kids and families at...2024-06-301h 14
Broken RulesRhett McAllisterSend us a textJoin us for an interview with singer and songwriter Rhett McAllister. We talk about Rhett's unique background with music from an early age, right on up to his current work with Greensboro, NC band Royal Cab Co. https://www.instagram.com/p/C2sWmw3puUR/Broken Rules is hosted by John Lanier and produced by Chris Ogle. www.brokenrulespod.com2024-05-3152 min
Insurance InsidersCreating a Million Dollar Agency from a Cardboard Sign ft. Chase McAllister | Ep9💎 Join the Waitlist for My Coaching:
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Join the Insurance Insiders podcast as we dive deep into the insurance game and spilling all the beans on how to rake in those millions. From industry insights to killer strategies, this is your ticket to mastering the insurance hustle. Grab a snack and tune in every week for some real talk with your insurance-savvy buddies!
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Ju$t Figure It OutUnshakable Confidence & Kudzu - John MylantIn this insightful podcast episode, Jen interviews John Mylant, a seasoned business and life coach, and owner of J Mylant and Company. John shares his journey of transformation and how he discovered his life's purpose of helping people unleash their full potential.
John's journey began with a profound realization that despite his outward success, he felt like a failure due to an internal battle he kept hidden. Seeking purpose, he embarked on a journey of self-discovery, including volunteering at an orphanage in Jamaica. However, it was a Tony Robbins video that sparked a profound epiphany about the...2024-05-1730 min
Good News from the CornerMay 12, 2024 Senior SundayWilson Bridgforth, John McAllister, Wyatt McAllister, Class of 2024 Seniors, preached on May 12, 2024, for Senior Sunday.
The Order of Service can be found here.
2024-05-1309 minThe Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge PlayersEp 72: John Got Hired!John shares his experience of being hired to play bridge professionally for the first time. He talks about meeting and playing with a new partner and the challenges they faced. He also discusses the pressure and self-consciousness he felt as a bridge pro and how he overcame it to improve his performance and gain confidence.2024-03-0611 minThe Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players69 John Solo - This is the Song About BridgeEver wonder about the theme music that accompanies The Setting Trick and Double Dummy? Listen to this bonus episode, the first of John telling stories about the genesis of his bridge media. 2024-01-1909 minThe Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players68 Game On – The Card Game Bridge Needs More People Like Steve RaineThe Setting Trick Episode 68 Game On – The Card Game Bridge Needs More People Like Steve Raine John McAllister talks with Steve Raine, a bridge player, vlogger and gaming café owner who lives in Nottingham, England. His video blogs about attending bridge tournaments and subsequent board review have earned him fans across the globe. You’re going to want to stick around to hear the new end-of-show question as suggested by Steve’s partner at the Atlanta NABC, Adam Hickman, aka Gizzy. We’re planning on making it a staple of the show goin...2024-01-061h 32The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players67 Bonnie Gellas - The Beginners Bridge TeacherThe North American Bridge Championships are truly an experience that brings people together. Walt Shafer, who runs an eponymous, invitation-only game online, hosted a party for the participants at the Atlanta NABC. John, who plays in the game, attended and met Bonnie Gellas, who was there because her partner, Erez Hendelman, plays in the game. The two hit it off and now Bonnie, who is a bridge teacher, is a guest on the show. Bonnie lives in NYC and is responsible for teaching bridge to hundreds of players. 2023-12-151h 01
Authentic: Conversations with Stock & Hicksy"Double Dummy" is a Compliment in Competitive Bridge: John McAllister, The Setting TrickIt's hard to teach but it's great to play! John McAllister, of the podcast "The Setting Trick", gave up his career to play bridge. John didn't do it just for himself, he wanted to see young people play the game, too. In 2012, he took a film crew to China for an international bridge championship. The documentary, available on PBS.org, follows the USA 1 Under 21 team in the prestigious World Youth Team Championships.
Becoming a fan and eventually a passionate bridge player in this highly competitive sport started after an off-hand remark by his aunt one night. John...2023-08-2434 min
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players62 Patty Tucker: Youthful EnthusiastThe Setting Trick Episode 62: Patty Tucker, Youthful Enthusiast. Patty Tucker might be responsible for creating more new bridge players than anyone on the planet. From developing teaching materials and running a non-profit to her new endeavor - getting bridge to be part of the curriculum in schools - Patty channels her love of the game into energy to keep it alive. How bridge changed Patty’s life at age 11, finding her niche. The origin of Atlanta Junior Bridge, how the camps became the Youth NABC. The challenges of school sy...2023-08-211h 08
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players61 Sartaj Hans Keeps Getting Better at BridgeThe Setting Trick Episode 61: Sartaj Hans Keeps Getting Better This week's guest is many-time Australian national champion Sartaj Hans. Originally from India, Sartaj has several high finishes in NABC events, including making the semifinal of the recent Spingold Knockout Teams in Chicago, where he played four-handed with partner Andy Hung and teammates Nabil Edgtton and Michael Whibley. John had his first big knockout match win in the 2014 Spingold teaming with Sartaj to beat the then 7th- seeded Cayne team. Sartaj’s book, Battling the Best, won the 2107 IBPA Book of the Yea...2023-08-151h 27The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge PlayersEpisode 58: Olivia Schireson - Next GenThe Setting Trick Episode 58 Olivia Schireson - Next Gen Olivia and John talk about how they met and the opportunity to play on a last-minute team together at the Providence NABC. Olivia’s mantra, “the two C’s,” confidence (and competence) – “never play bridge scared.” The Cinderella Mixed Team at the US Team Trials. Bay Area Junior Bridge, the Rosenbergs, Will Watson, rooting for friends. Getting the best out of oneself. John and Olivia discuss having their plays written up on Bridge Winners.2023-06-241h 41The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players55. Greg Humphreys - Charlottesville’s Best - Part 2Greg Humphreys, a talented software engineer and accomplished bridge player features in this episode of The Setting Trick. He is the winner of the Mott-Smith Trophy at the recent spring North American Bridge championships, a three-time North American champion, and the best bridge player in Charlottesville, Virginia. He got hooked on Bridge in 1998 and quickly joined a local club, where he found success playing with Walter Miller's 49er club. Greg studied computer science at Princeton and Stanford before moving to Charlottesville, VA, to teach at the University of Virginia. Also, Greg has since left academia and worked for several...2023-04-201h 07
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players54. Greg Humphreys - Charlottesville’s Best - Part 1Greg Humphreys, a talented software engineer and accomplished bridge player is featured in this episode of The Setting Trick. He is the winner of the Mott-Smith Trophy at the recent spring North American Bridge Championships, a three-time North American champion, and the best bridge player in Charlottesville, Virginia. He got hooked on bridge in 1998 and quickly joined a local club, where he found success playing with Walter Miller's 49er club. Greg studied computer science at Princeton and Stanford before moving to Charlottesville, VA, to teach at the University of Virginia. Also, Greg has since left academia and worked for...2023-04-1351 minThe Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players53. Olin Hubert - Not Just a Director!In this episode of The Setting Trick, you are in for a treat as you get to hear from Olin Hubert, an exceptional American bridge player who has made a mark in the world of bridge. He has achieved the coveted title of American Contract Bridge League Grand Life Master owing to his impressive achievements in the game. Olin's exceptional skills as a North American champion bridge player have earned him accolades and recognition from the bridge community worldwide. His extensive experience in the game has led to some remarkable accomplishments, including winning the Grand National Teams...2023-03-091h 16The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players52. Interview with TST Host John McAllisterThis week’s episode of the Setting Trick: Conversations with World-Class Bridge Players turns the tables and features professional player Greg Hinze interviewing host John McAllister. In this conversation, we cover John’s background, his favorite bridge books, his experiences at the national and world championships, his documentary movie about bridge, the reasons why he started the podcast, and more. [01.29] John’s background – Starting the conversation, John discusses his Virginia roots, where he lives, where he went to college, and why he wants to stay there. [08.40] Books – John and Greg talk about some of the best books ab...2023-03-0247 min
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players50. Kevin Rosenberg - Dream PartnerThis week’s episode of the Setting Trick podcast features Kevin Rosenberg, a professional bridge player, and a full-time software engineer. Kevin comes from a family of professional bridge players, with Debbie and Michael Rosenberg as his mother and father. Kevin won the Soloway Knockout Teams in Phoenix and he also earned second place in the Reisinger at the Fall 2022 Phoenix NABC. He is a multi-time winner of the Youth World Open Championships (2022 Salsomagiorre, 2019 Opatija, 2017 Lyon). In this episode, we discussed getting stars from BBO, teaching bridge for beginners, Kevin’s thoughts on having parents who are world-class bridge play...2023-02-091h 06
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players49. John Kranyak - Better Late than NeverThis episode of The Setting Trick: Conversations with World-Class Bridge Players features John Kranyak. John is a professional Bridge and Poker player from the United States of America. He is a highly accomplished and respected member of the Spectre team, widely considered one of the bridge community's most successful and competitive teams. John's skill and expertise in the bridge are matched only by his exceptional character and integrity. In this episode, we shared several experiences that we had gained from competing in tournaments, playing with a number of other players, and accumulating the most memorable memories, along with the...2023-02-021h 24
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players48. Kitty Cooper - Loves a Good Hand“The secret to winning a world championship is great teammates, a good partnership, and good team spirit.” Kitty Munson Cooper is a bridge blogger, genetic genealogist and world-champion bridge player. She has won eight North American Bridge Championships and the Venice Cup in 1989. She currently lives in San Diego, CA. Today we talked about her background, the secret to winning world championships, sexism in bridge, and more. Kitty has won NABCs with two different husbands. Playing with someone close to you is a different feeling; they see what you don’t see, and you see what the...2023-01-261h 10
The Growing Band DirectorEp 57 - John McAllister Music Part 2In part 2/2 of our conversation with John McAllister of JohnMcAllistermusic.com - we hear the best ways to use his resources to help our students improve in their fundamentals. Wise words from an experienced educator and innovating creator in the music education space!
To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of growingband.com
Our mission is to share practical advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience le...2022-12-0927 minThe Growing Band Director56 - John McAllister-Tools for Making Fundamentals Fun!John McAllister is the man behind the great JohnMcAllistermusic.com where you can find backing tracks and free resources to make your job as a band director easier! From beginner exercises to more advanced music, the play along videos are something that students LOVE!
To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of growingband.com
Our mission is to share practical advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your ex...2022-12-0130 minThe Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge PlayersJoe GrueToday I have an abbreviated conversation with my good friend Joe Grew, who is one of the best bridge players in the world. This is my first in-person conversation and it took place at Congressional Country Club in September. It got cut short because, frankly we had to get on the tee!2022-11-0926 min
Vegas RevealedElton John Plays Final Vegas Concert, Taylor Swift Announces Allegiant Stadium Show, World's Hottest Pizza Now in Las Vegas, Secret Magic Show, Is Vegas Getting Really Expensive, Katy Perry Adds Shows, Rick Springfield Announces Residency | Ep. 142Send us a textElton John played a show at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas and announced that it is his last concert in this city. We were there to capture what he said. Plus, Taylor Swift announces "The Eras Tour" will stop in Las Vegas in March. Katy Perry extends her residency into 2023, Rick Springfield announces shows at The STRAT, and Fortune Feimster announces a stand-up show at The Wynn. Plus, are you ready for a food challenge? Downtown Las Vegas' Evel Pie is delivering the Hottest Pizza in the World! The pizza aims to top...2022-11-0540 minVegas RevealedRemembering Olivia Newton-John, Matt Goss Signs Up for BBC's Strictly Come Dancing in UK, Criss Angel Starts Taping New TV Show in Las Vegas, Travel Numbers Up | Ep. 130Send us a textThe world lost a beautiful and talented icon this week, Olivia Newton-John. She also had a show at the Flamingo Hotel Casino for a few years. We were able to have many special moments with Olivia through the years and we share some of those special stories. Also, longtime Las Vegas headliner, Matt Goss, is now officially a contestant for the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing show! He moved back to the UK and will join the cast for its 20th season. Plus, Criss Angel starts tapings for his new TV show called "Magic with...2022-08-1340 minVegas RevealedRental Car Rival Launches in Las Vegas, JLo and Ben Marry in Vegas, Elton John Tickets, Jonas Family Restaurant Experience, Princess Diana Exhibit to Open, Silverton Casino Hotel Celebrates 25 Years | Ep. 127Send us a textHow about having an electric vehicle delivered to you instead of waiting in line at a rental car shop? Halo.Car launched in Las Vegas with a beta model. You can try it out in the downtown Las Vegas area. We talk to the founder about how it works and go for a ride! Plus, Elton John is coming to Allegiant Stadium for a show and we browse at tickets. Plus, Dayna visits Nellie's Southern Kitchen in MGM Grand and chats with Kevin Jonas, Sr. about the restaurant. A Princess Diana exhibit is...2022-07-2335 minThe Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players47. Susan Morse - Bridge Author ExtraordinaireSusan Morse is my kind of person, well humored and a lover of bridge. In one of her Bridge Bulletin articles she introduced me to the concept of the Bridge Base Online “hamburger”. This conversation came about based on a chance encounter at the Austin NABC. We’ve since gone on to break bread during the Hilton Head regional. In a just completed phone conversation Susan tells me she will talk to her team about playing the Spingold for the first time in Providence. Episode highlights: 1:10- 'Good Evening Memphis' 14:5...2022-03-261h 32The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players46. Milan Macura - Bridge StreamerReturning from my hiatus, I am pleased to welcome Milan Macura to kick off our next season on The Setting Trick. Milan is a professional player and teacher. He is also a Youtube streamer and was previously president of the Czech Bridge Federation.. In 2009, through a series of amazing, fortunate events, Milan won the 1st World Youth Congress. Listen for the full story! Milan Macura's Youtube Channel Episode highlights: 5:06- His pathway in becoming a streamer 13:25- The story behind his improbable win in the 1st World Youth Congress2022-03-161h 11
Thinking Out LoudThe Ukraine Crisis: A Discussion with Stuart McAllisterIn the wake of Putin's attack on Ukraine and the rapidly escalating warfare in that region, we sat down for a discussion with Stuart McAllister to explore the complex history between these two nations, as well as their ongoing sources of conflict. It's a sobering conversation but one that we hope will be helpful to you as you seek to understand this new war and its potential global implications.
Stuart McAllister is the Director of Ministry Projects at Reflections Ministries, as well as the Director of Ministry at Thinking Out Loud. He also holds the job title o...2022-03-041h 00
MC Podcasting#175 - Moonbeam Productions (Ft. John Monahan and Declan Proctor)Very excited to be joined by John Monahan and Declan Proctor, the owners and founders of Moonbeam Productions, a production company based in Belfast. John and Declan tell us how they got started, they're recent release 'Pitbulls' and the latest project 'The Owner of a Lonely Heart'. Enjoy! If you enjoyed the episode feel free to give us a review on any podcast platform. Also, if you have any suggestions on topics you would like to hear us discuss head over to our Instagram page @MCPodcasting and drop us a comment! And if you REALLY...2022-02-281h 06
Coffee and Conversations with LaKishaToday's Special Interview: Dr. John McAllisterJoin us for today's special guest, John McAllister, Associate Professor at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. His wisdom and knowledge is for the ages!
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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/justbeinglmj/support2022-02-1137 minThe Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players45. Jenni Carmichael - Director!We have saved today’s guest to appear once the next in-person Nationals loomed near. Meet Jenni Carmichael, our first tournament director on the show and spouse of TST Guest #24 Tom Carmichael. A fine storyteller, Jenni finds the humor and draws out the drama. Episode Highlights: 1:20- Chances of Austin Nationals happening 5:23- Requirements to become a director 11:15- 3SXX making is clearly an average board 15:00- “I just have four cards left to play” 17:05- How Jenny got into directing 24:00- “The only law we care ab...2021-11-041h 24The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players44. Ola and Mikael Rimstedt - Twins that WinThe Rimstedt family of Sweden is among the strongest bridge-playing families of all-time. Twins Mikael and Ola are the youngest players ever to win the World Pairs, and their sister Cecilia won the 2019 Venice Cup, sadly with their sister Sandra no longer on the team after having emigrated to the US. Today we have the pleasure of speaking to Mikael and Ola. In addition to being my friends and I’ve even been lucky enough to have them on my team on occasion. Watch the video version here: https://john-mcallister-s52b.squarespace.com/episode-44-ola-and-mikael-rimstedt Ep...2021-10-191h 21
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge PlayersDouble Dummy 2.0 - Introduce your Friends to BridgeI am excited to share the new version of Double Dummy with all of you. We created this film in hopes of spreading the word about bridge and inspiring a new generation of bridge-lovers. Please watch it and if so inspired do share it with others in your life who might be curious about bridge. The film features a team of the best American bridge players under age 21, vying for the United States' first ever medal in U21 team play. This is your opportunity to get an inside look at youth bridge at the highest level. 2021-09-1908 minThe Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players43. Susan Bricken - Dedicated to Growing the GameWe are informally designating Susan Bricken as the Chief Enthusiasm Officer for the ACBL Educational Foundation’s new program, BridgeWhiz. We hope she’ll be an inspiration to all who want young people to learn the game. After finishing this episode, make sure to tell three people about BridgeWhiz, and feel free to copy me at john@thesettingtrick.com! To date 1,250+ students have signed up. WATCH THE VIDEO VERSION HERE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kxAmqb_pKWw&t=3s Episode Highlights: 0:50- BridgeWhiz details 6:48- The bridge version of Queen’s Gamb...2021-09-1557 minThe Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players42. Shan Huang - Is Better than You!Shan Huang (technically Huang Shan) is a budding bridge legend. His frequent successes at tournaments earned him multiple Richmond trophies, the Canadian masterpoint race, before he immigrated to the US’ greener bridge pastures. He is in a formidable partnership with Floridian Kevin Dwyer. Link to Video Version: https://youtu.be/yAMvFrjPfp0 Episode Highlights: 1:40- Huang Shan 11:33- Why Shan moved from Canada to USA 19:30- His experience at a Chinese monastery 24:10- Descriptions of Justin Lall (RIP) 28:45- How Shan’s partnership with Kevin...2021-09-031h 32The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players41. Robert Todd - Adventures in TeachingRobert Todd is becoming a force in the bridge teaching world and has been called “the next generation of great bridge instructor and entertainer.” Having taught in 48 States, lectured at countless regionals, nationals, and cruises, Robert is following the path of his mentors Audrey Grant, Larry Cohen, or Barbara Seagram—some of the world’s most renowned bridge teachers. Besides teaching professionally, Robert is heavily involved in promoting youth bridge. Using his knowledge and expertise as a top-tiered educator, Robert is helping spearhead the new ACBL Education Foundation program, Bridge Whiz. If your child is interested in learning...2021-08-191h 19The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players40. Jacek Kalita - The Gentle KillerEver since my conversation with Jeff Meckstroth, I began asking a standard question to Setting Trick guests, “are you better than (Jacek) Kalita?” It was a fun or tough question, depending on the guest, which got a wide variety of responses in spite of Jacek being ranked 2nd in the World Bridge Federation’s rankings. Hailing from Poland, Jacek is our first European based guest. Astute listeners will have noticed that I stopped asking the are you better than question when Jacek’s partner Michal Nowosadzki confessed to self-kibitizing in multiple online events last year. The partner with who...2021-07-311h 07The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players39. Andrew Rowberg and Danning Lu - Collegiate Bowl ChampsIn 2017, there was no bridge club at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Then Andrew Rowberg, a recent PhD graduate in computational material science, came along. Four years later, during which bribery cookies were baked, practice sessions held, and talent developed, the UCSB Overbidders Anonymous emerged victorious in the 2021 Online North American Collegiate Bridge Championships. We’re excited to showcase the journey that this UCSB team took from having nothing to winning it all. Episode Highlights: 2:40- The formation of the UCSB Bridge Club 4:05- How Danning learn...2021-07-0557 minThe Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players38. Mike Levine - Hires the Best!Our first ever sponsor to be featured on The Setting Trick is Mike Levine. As many bridge players know, a match up against the Levine Team should be dreaded, unless one enjoys being demolished. In tow with his ultimate dream team, which includes two partnerships considered by many to be the greatest pairs of all time, Mike recently won the first 3 North American Online Bridge Championships in a row, a feat of absolute dominance. In life, Mike Levine has somehow managed to top his massive successes at the bridge table; he is one of the w...2021-06-081h 16The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players37. Youngest Life Masters: Bill, David, & Doug Hsieh - Passing the BatonWe continue our popular series of “The Youngest Life Master” with long-ago former record holders Bill and Dough Hsieh, along with their older brother and inspiration David Hsieh. In this episode, they taught me just how much our game has changed. From the abolition of smoking at the table to masterpoint inflation, and to the resurgence of youth bridge, bridge has evolved. However, one thing continues to be the same: its power of leaving happy memories that survive over the span of decades. Episode Highlights: 1:50- Be the once in a blue m...2021-05-1549 min
SIP - The Coaches' ViewJohn Pascarella - Head Coach and Technical Director, Oklahoma City EnergyJohn offers incredible insight into being both a head coach and technical director. Also, John talks about breaking out of the “goalkeeper coach” tag and the steps he took to become a head coach.2021-04-2941 minThe Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players36. Michael Xu - Asks a Lot of QuestionsIn June of 2019, I asked now 17 year old Michael Xu to help me prepare for my interview with his bridge mentor/hero, Michael Rosenberg. This sparked his progression from The Setting Trick helper, to The Setting Trick intern, and finally to The Setting Trick guest. One year after I first reached out, Michael co founded the Youth Bridge Association, a nonprofit organization based on the idea of youth teaching youth bridge. As co president, Michael has helped host multiple classes as well as a tournament that drew 140 juniors! Michael has generously agr...2021-04-121h 01The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge PlayersYLM: Joel Wooldridge, Sam & Dan Hirschman, and Steve CochranThe third and possibly final episode of the Youngest Life Master series has touched down! In this episode, we caught up with four former youngest Life Masters: Joel Wooldrige, brothers Sam and Dan Hirschman, and Steven Cochran. Joel is now a world-class expert and is one of the world's best players. Sam and Dan continue to celebrate their former record with the annual “The Party”. Steven was an absolutely wild teenager; he once woke up in the ocean while traveling across the country to play bridge, without his parents. At the age of 14. It really amazes me how different are...2021-04-031h 20The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players34. Andrew Robson - The Formidable EnglishmanAndrew Robson is a giant, in both height and bridge; he is 6 feet 6 inches tall and has won a slew of titles, including back to back Reisingers in 1998 and 1999. On top of all his bridge accolades, he has met the Queen of England, received the prestigious “Other Buggers’ Efforts” award, and survived a 100 foot fall. If you want to learn more about Andrew and his bridge adventures, there is a great page on his website called Andrew’s Life in Bridge, where I learned many of the stories I asked Andrew about today. COVID finally got Andre...2021-03-261h 04The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players33. Albert Bender - Taking the Game to KidsAl Bender is an extraordinarily dedicated teacher for Bridge For Youth, a nonprofit organization that promotes youth bridge in the Seattle area. After the pandemic struck, Bridge For Youth and Al switched from a face-to-face teaching model to solely virtual instruction. He caught my attention through this Bridge Winners article on the benefits of teaching online. To say the article brightened my day would be a massive underbid. Read it! The most important takeaway from Al’s experience is that virtual instruction is an incredibly effective teaching model. We want to see this model duplicated across the cou...2021-03-1951 minMC Podcasting#139 - John Monahan | Writer & DirectorIn this episode we are joined by writer, director and all round film guy, John Monahan. John joins us to talk his latest project PITBULLS. John gives us an insight to world of movie making and the process that comes with writing and directing a movie. ENJOY! If you enjoyed the episode feel free to give us a review on any podcast platform. Also, if you have any suggestions on topics you would like to hear us discuss head over to our Instagram page @MCPodcasting and drop us a comment! And if you REALLY enjoyed...2021-03-1551 minThe Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players32. Greg Hinze - This Dude AbidesMeet Greg Hinze: Three time North American Bridge Champion, world champion and he also has a world class sense of humor! After first hearing there was such a thing as a professional bridge player, Greg made it his five year goal. He played a lot, read lots of books, practically went broke and now is a highly desired pro. Episode Highlights: 1:35- How Greg first decided to pursue his goal of becoming a professional 3:15- How Greg got hooked onto bridge 6:10- Greg and his poker job 7:55- How G...2021-03-1254 minThe Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players31. Youngest Life Master: Adam Kaplan and Richard JengAt the age of 10 years and 43 days Adam Kaplan set the record as the American Contract Bridge League’s youngest ever life master. A subsequent article in the ACBL Bridge Bulletin, commemorating Adam’s achievement, inspired his successor Richard Jeng who broke Adam’s record with ease at the age of 9 years, 6 months, and 12 days. Both Richard and Adam are members of the USA1 Under 21 team whose journey in the 14th World Youth Team Championships we chronicle in Double Dummy. A film which Adam largely inspired. Here are two brief conversations about Richard and Adam’s quest to become...2021-02-2834 minThe Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players30. YLM: Andrew Chen - The Current TitleholderOur latest guest, Andrew Chen, is our youngest ever, by a lot! 8-year old Andrew is the ACBL’s youngest ever Life Master, a feat many spend decades striving for. In May 2020, Andrew, at the age of eight years and three days, smashed the previous record holder’s mark by more than a year. He also was the first to set the record since the requirements for being a Life Master moved from three hundred to five hundred Masterpoints. All four members of Andrew’s immediate family, his mother Sarah, his brother Charlie and his father Steve, are br...2021-02-1831 minThe Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players29. Ron Smith - Has More StoriesDidn’t get enough of Ronnie? He’s back! Ron Smith returns to the show, bringing with him more hilarious stories. Episode Highlights: 6:05- Ron’s opinion on Real Bridge 12:30- When your teammates go for minus 4600 in 4Cxx down 8 so you lose 24 IMPS, but you still win the match 15:35- Ron learns from his teacher who went minus 5800.Twice 16:05- Story of the only person to win the Vanderbilt while also losing two matches in the same tournament 18:30- Never give up during a match 25...2021-02-021h 09
Honest To Pod092 - Religion and Sexuality w/ Our John HenryThis week Ash and Matt are joined by John Henry - a fellow gay rugby player, who is also a man of the cloth. John joins us to talk us through his unique story of growing up in Northern Ireland and secretly going to church. Listen to how his faith then grew to be a vocational aspiration and how he managed to find solace in his faith AND his sexuality. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2021-01-141h 07The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players28. Ron Smith - Is Funny!Among US Juniors, few adults’ names are as well-recognized as Ron Smith. But don’t let his title of “Honorary Junior” fool you; Ron began playing bridge back in the Roth Stone era, when he only would open the bidding with 14 points—3 points more than what he needs to open today. A true perennial all-star, Ron stands out for his work in fostering the rising young stars of our game. He’s also a pretty entertaining and genuinely good natured fellow. Episode Highlights: 1:50- Ron’s mother used to think he was going to hell for pla...2020-12-181h 38The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players27. Scott Hoffer - World's Best Bridge Learning AppWhile Scott Hoffer professes to be the worst player yet to appear on The Setting Trick, he caught my attention as the developer of an iOS app called Tricky Bridge. Presently only available on iPhones and iPads, Tricky Bridge has become my go to destination for anyone who is interested in learning the game. The ACBL Education Foundation helped make the app’s series of 37 beginners lessons free. Hat’s off to both the Ed Foundation and Scott, you’ve answered one of my prayers! Episode Highlights: 2:00- Tricky Bridge and how it came to be...2020-11-2759 minThe Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players26. Nabil Edgtton - Tall, Dark and HandsomeI first saw Nabil Edggton at the 14th World Youth Team Championships in Taicang. I remember being in the Vugraph room and hearing fellow Aussie (Nabil is from Oz) David Stern say something to the effect of, Andy (Hung, Neil’s junior and current partner) likes to bid game and let Nabil play it. It still strikes as the type of compliment on which I would love to be on the receiving end. Nabil and I became friends when we teamed up for the Rosenbloom in 2018. We don’t talk about it here, but Nabil is a total...2020-11-182h 01The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players25. Walt Schafer - The Place to Play OnlineOn March 13th Walt Schafer began organizing bridge games on BridgeBase in response to the global shutdown. Walt continues to organize what has become known as “The Schafer Game,” selflessly out of his love for bridge. I got to play with the legendary for Bob Hamman for the first time in Walt’s game and we went on to win. Beating Episode 23 guests Finn Kolesnik and Jacob Freeman among others. A friendship has developed between the two of us thanks to this podcast conversation and I am delighted to share this conversation with a fine player and fellow...2020-11-142h 23The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players24. Tom Carmichael - Captains the JuniorsIn August of 2012, Tom Carmichael and I spent 12 days together in Taicang, China. Tom as the non-playing captain (NPC) of the USA1 Under 21 team, and me as the executive producer of a documentary film with the working title Lost in the Shuffle. We decided to focus on Tom’s team owing to the appeal of the players on it and their chance to win the first ever medal for the US in the Youngsters (Under 21) Series. This conversation is eight years in the making. As an outside documenter, it’s fascinating to hear Tom talk about the dyna...2020-11-031h 45The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players23. Chris Willenken - Next Level Bridge ThinkingNot all professional bridge players are world class. I will comfortably posit that Chris Willenken is. Having watched a director ask Chris about a bidding problem at an NABC I've been dumbfounded about how much Chris knows with just a few words introduction. Demand for playing lessons with him has skyrocketed during Covid as bridge players seek to improve their games online. I love the role Chris' mother played in helping him find this lifelong pursuit. Find out how she and bridge communities in both the Poconos and New York City's initial nurturing helped turn Chris into...2020-10-221h 19
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players22. Jacob Freeman and Finn Kolesnik - Teens that WinJacob Freeman and Finn Kolesnik are 20 and 16 years old respectively. They first proposed the idea of appearing on The Setting Trick, seemingly as a lark, at the 2019 Fall North American Bridge Championships. As the podcast’s founder and host, I was delighted that it mattered to them, and amused by being asked during a chance run in on a street corner! Find out the amazing story about how these two teenagers put together the “amateur” F Kolesnik team, calling on four hall of famers each of whom are more than twice their age. These two up-and...2020-10-071h 25
The Hard Yarns Podcast#35 - John McAllisterToday we are joined by John McAllister, owner of Perths premier and only comedy specific venue, the Comedy Lounge. We talk everything comedy and his journey from plasterer to owner of the biggest and best comedy venue in Australia 2020-09-081h 39
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players21. Phil Clayton - Online ChampionPhil Clayton is a regular listener. When he recently won the first ever Premier Pairs we decided to invite him to be a guest. Phil wrote this post on Bridgewinners describing his win with his regular partner Andrew Gumperz. The ACBL’s ultimate masterpoint reward is Grand Life Master. Unfortunately for Phil, none of his major wins will qualify him for the distinction. Nonetheless, he says the Premier Pairs is his best result to date. Phil recently moved to Dallas and seems to be greatly enjoying the bridge culture there. Here’s a photo of him a...2020-08-301h 23
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players20. Jack Zhao - Laughs his Face offJack Zhao is a two time world champion in pairs and one of the funniest men in the bridge world. While this is an audio program, when Jack laughs wholeheartedly, it looks like his face is going to explode. I’ve had the pleasure of partnering Jack for a week long regional tournament and visited him in his home city of Tianjin, China. In this conversation we discuss Jack’s improbable journey to living in America, learning bridge as a teenager and the importance of Jack being welcomed into the bridge scene in Rotterdam. In spite...2020-07-241h 55
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players19. Kim Frazer - Represents her Country Kim Frazer is an Olympian, three time Commonwealth Games gold medalist in rifle shooting and author of Gaining the Mental Edge at Bridge. Seeking a hobby in retirement, Kim took up bridge in 2005 and in 2018 made the Australian women’s team in her first attempt. In this episode Kim shares how the mental techniques that brought her such success in shooting are just as applicable in bridge. Kim discusses the path she took in writing her book and explains with simple practices how to improve one’s mental bridge game. Kim is rigorous about improving hers...2020-07-021h 34
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players18. Only the Best : The Setting Trick Seasons One and TwoEqual Justice Initiative Black Lives Matter Bridge is one of my favorite subjects. I love hearing stories about how people got started, a great play or how they approach a hand. The Setting Trick podcast is the forum where I share conversations with world class bridge players and fellow lovers of the game. As the host and founder, it is my pleasure to share highlights from Seasons One and Two in our first ever Best of The Setting Trick. Since we had our initial conversation with Bridgewinners co...2020-06-231h 30
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players17. Anam Tebha - Mixed ChampionAnam Tebha is a professional bridge player, who learned the game during summer school as a teenager and fell in love. Shortly afterwards, her and three classmates went to the junior world championships knowing “only KC.” Afterwards, she returned home and “must have logged like over 50 boards a day” on Bridge Base Online, playing with any and everyone. Her hard work and passion paid off when she won the Mixed Swiss in a spontaneous partnership with Zia Mahmood. In the words of junior star, Finn Kolesnik, Anam “is a beast”. Highlights from Episode:...2020-04-0750 min
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players16. Geoff Hampson - Best in the WorldWhen I invited world champion Geoff Hampson to be a guest on The Setting Trick, he shot back, “What’s the Setting Trick?” Crushed, I sent him a link to our website along with question marks and exclamation points. To which he responded, “I just bust chops, I’m down.” It’s a pleasure to welcome one of the finest bridge players in the world with a sense of humor to match. Highlights from Episode: 2:55- Geoff talks about how he is sick 12:10- Geoff...2020-03-261h 15
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players15. Steve Weinstein - Relentless to WinSteve Weinstein speaks highly of his partners, demands a lot out of his students and plays to win. As a 17 year old, Steve became the youngest ever winner of a North American Bridge Championship, winning the Life Master Pairs with his stepfather Fred Stewart. While Steve is one of the best professional bridge players in the world, he considers himself “lucky that I have gotten to do things that I’ve loved and enjoyed and (I’ve) never had a job.” Today, his regular partner is Bobby Levin whom Steve describes as “without a doubt, unquestionably one of the bes...2020-02-191h 27
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players14. Jeff Meckstroth - All-time GreatJeff Meckstroth needs no introduction. His name is synonymous with winning. When I first laid eyes on him, some eight years ago, at the Williamsburg Regional, I thought, "Wow, there's Jeff Meckstroth!" Now, amazingly, here he is, full of good humor, stories and even some encouragement for my own game on The Setting Trick podcast. In our wide ranging conversation, Jeff shares about meeting Eric Rodwell, how he knew Rod was the partner for him, getting started professionally and getting fired by both George Rosenkrantz and Nick Nickell! One of my favorite parts of...2020-01-031h 55
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players13. Kåre Gjaldbæk - Talks Danish CoffeesOriginating from Denmark, Kare Gjaldbaek is our next guest. Kare is currently pursuing a PhD in mathematics. This coupled with the fact that he has new children to take care of means he is forced to take a hiatus from bridge. But once life calms down for him, he plans on “returning to the bridge scene with a vengeance.” Similarly to our previous guest, Bart Bramley, Kare has interesting stories to share. Unlike Bramley though, Kare has more …. wild stories to tell. One particular narrative involves a combination of alcohol and late-adolescence hormones, leading to a lack o...2019-12-281h 22
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge PlayersBart Bramley - Master StorytellerBeing on our longest interview yet, Bart Bramley, a world-class bridge champion, delivered throughout the entirety of the podcast. This episode was not a typical interview. Indeed, it was Bart who steered the conversation, captaining the exploration of his fruitful life. As a master storyteller, Bart recounted innumerable adventures and provided an incredulous level of detail in each of his stories. At the age of 71, Bramley has lived life. He may be old in terms of the myriad memories he can reminisce about, but he still has the sharp humor of a young man. Bart i...2019-11-222h 15
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge PlayersAmaresh Deshpande - The Future of BridgeBest known for being the inventor of the now famous game, Hool, and other bridge-related apps - like Kida -, Amaresh Deshpande is our next guest to share his thoughts. Originating from India, Deshpande began his career as a math teacher, but he now finds himself mainly teaching bridge. Concerned by the current difficulty in introducing bridge to short-attention-spanned children, Deshpande had set off on a quest to solve the issue of how to teach bridge in a society governed by distractions and immediate pleasures. He ended up designing Hool: a game that could be a stand-alone...2019-11-031h 00
only foreign films.off. Episode 08 - "Superbad" w/ John McNerney & Brandon MizerWe talk jokes, friendship, and growing up with our good friends (and Patrick's roommates) John McNerney & Brandon Mizer.2019-10-2900 min
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge PlayersJames Holzhauer - Jeopardy ChampionJames Holzhauer is, by far, the most famous interviewee we have had on the show. Breaking several records in the game show Jeopardy!, Holzhauer and his massive win streak have astonished the world. During his winning streak Jeopardy! viewership grew from 10.4 million to 13.3 million a week. He is already in the Jeopardy! Hall of Fame. Holzhauer is more than a Jeopardy! champion; he is also a bridge player. James can execute a double squeeze yet prefers to play one way new minor forcing(?). Highlights from Episode: 2:30- James’ first exposure to brid...2019-10-1748 minThe Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players9. Michael Rosenberg - Plays a Different GameBridge came naturally to Michael Rosenberg.2019-06-301h 04
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players8. Dave Caprera - Sleeps on the CouchDave Caprera is the author of the recently published bridge book, Sleeping on the Couch. All proceeds from the sale of Dave's book go towards the USBF Junior Fund. Dave is on the USBF board and serves as a coach for some of the junior teams. Dave's regular partner is his wife of 42 years Anne Brenner. For all those non-bridge players who are thinking of taking up the game with your, spouse listen to this episode. Dave averages about 10 points a day at a tournament which has made him a Platinum Life Master. He has...2019-04-301h 22
The Second Echelon#64 John McAllister & Mario ArroyaveMario Arroyave is a Category 1 cyclist, business owner, a WRA client and family member for more years than we could figure out, and a full-time Coach to boot. John McAllister is co-owner and GM of the UCI Pro Elevate - KHS Continental cycling team, owner of ProTour Camps, and former Domestic Elite road racer. Topics range from qualities needed to turn pro, keeping elite athletes motivated, training efficiently in groups, the benefits of training camps, and a whole lot more...Tell ben@jakroousa.com we sent you! Try it for yourself first-> http://shop.jakroo.com/Williams-Racing-Academy-20192018-12-181h 33
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players7. Samantha Punch - Champions BridgeSamantha Punch started playing bridge as she finished up her PhD in Sociology. Now she is on the Scottish Women's bridge team. Placing 7th in the 54th European Team Championships, allowed her team to qualify for the Venice Cup for the first time. Sam is a sociologist at the University of Stirling and is helping them to start the academic study of the Sociology of Bridge. Sam hosted a screening of Double Dummy at the Macrobert Filmhouse in June. In this episode Sam shares how that screening has led to the creation of a university bridge club...2018-11-191h 35
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players6. Adam Grossack - Sees the Angles + MojoOn the phone with Adam Grossack this May, we started talking about the regional tournaments he plays with Jeff Meckstroth and Eric Rodwell and a husband and wife. It's an unusual pairing because Meckwell never play together. Rather, Adam plays with either Jeff or Eric depending on whether the husband or wife is playing with the other half of the famous partnership. I started to ask Adam questions about what system he plays with each of them and he told me, "let's save this for my podcast episode." I love that Adam thought so far in advance...2018-09-141h 44
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players5. Adam Wildavsky - Listener to Guest + Zia discusses a bidding problemAdam Wildavsky is recognized as a Grand Life Master by the American Contract Bridge League. He has represented the United States finishing as high as third in the Bermuda Bowl and won the Reisinger Board a Match teams partnering Doug Doub with whom he had not even planned on initially playing the event. In addition to my conversation with Adam we have bridge superstar Zia Mahmood discussing a bidding problem shared with me from my friend Anindra Sarkar.2018-06-261h 30
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players4. Zach Grossack - Bridge StarZach Grossack can play. He could do so as a fifteen year old star of Double Dummy Now as a twenty year old, he is developing into one of the world's best. He and older brother Adam Grossack form one of the top young partnerships in the world. In this wide ranging conversation, Zach is both insightful and playful, much like he is at the table. Here are some highlights: 9:18 - Get Zach’s thoughts on Danish starlet Christina Lund Madsen, including playing with her when she almost called the director on him....2018-05-091h 31
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players3. Migry Zur Campanile - My First World Championship PartnerI first met Migry at the Phoenix NABC in the Fall of 2013. Shortly thereafter I received an email from Christina Lund Madsen asking if I wanted to hire her and Dennis Bilde for the 2014 World Mixed Teams Championship. My only concern became finding a female partner. Christina suggested Migry and thus a great friendship born. Migry is no shrinking violet! She has been a best friend, confidante, substitute mother, bridge partner and sounding board ever since we had lunch together on January 27th, 2014, her birthday, in New York City. We agreed to play the Mixed portion of t...2018-04-091h 14
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players2. Bob Hamman - The GOATBob Hamman requires no introduction in bridge circles. His name is synonymous with success at the games highest level. Find out what makes him such a dynamic personality away from the table in this rare conversation.2018-03-101h 13
The Setting Trick: Conversations with World Class Bridge Players1. Gavin Wolpert - Bridge LifeGavin is a top professional bridge player who has represented both the United States and Canada in international competition. He is also the founder of bridgewinners.com a fantastic resource for learning the game. In our wide ranging discussion he talks about psychology at the table, including not underestimating your opponents, conserving energy, great plays and overcoming mistakes. How he changes his strategy when the situation dictates and how he generally plays to avoid making errors. I really appreciate Gavin for sharing so generously of his time and being my first guest.2018-01-181h 16
Offstage at Chinchilla Studio18. Tribute with Ozzie Mancinelli & John McAllisterIn this episode we sat down with Ozzie Mancinelli and John McAllister, from much loved and super successful Tom Petty tribute band, PettyBreakers. We talk about the ins and outs of tribute music, how the word "tribute" differs from the word "cover," and how tribute bands get their adoring audiences all hot and bothered. PettyBreakers' website2017-06-1625 minThe Drunken Odyssey with John King: A Podcast About the Writing Life245: Tom McAllister!In this week’s episode, I talk to the novelist and memoirist Tom McAllister about structuring long-form fiction, the mystery of love, the addictive horrors of football, and other important matters. NOTES Follow Bookmark It on Facebook to learn more about Brave New Book Club, which is led by Vanessa Blakeslee. Save2017-02-041h 09
BBC Radio Ulster TalkbackJohn McAllister tells Wendy about the moment he delivered his own baby son.UUP leadership contender John McAllister tells Wendy how he delivered his own baby son yesterday.2012-03-2904 min