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The Audacious Living PodcastAsking for Help Isn't About You!“When you refuse to ask for help, you are robbing those other people of the joy they would have received from helping you..”
Maxwell Ivey
The Blind Blogger | Accessibility Expert
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Maxwell Ivey, also known as the Blind Blogger, is a digital accessibility expert, entrepreneur, author, and podcast host based in Conroe, Texas. Born into a family of Carnival owners, Maxwell's journey into entrepreneurship and advocacy for inclusion and accessibility began after he experienced a gradual loss of vision due to retinitis pigmentosa.
Despite the challenges, Maxwell overcame obstacles, graduated college, worked as an equipment broker in the Carnival industry, and tran...
2024-04-1650 min
Short stories by Maxwell ConroeMind Twisters 14 - 17 CompilationA compilation of Maxwell Conroe's Mind Twisters 14 to 17, narrated by Phil Rowe.
2023-06-1529 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeNightly Recollection 3 – Close Encounter (Mind Twister #17)At some point I smack into the ground – rather forcefully. I briefly lose my sense of orientation and taste dust; I have literally bitten the dust! Then I hear snorting nearby. The snorting just grows more intense. I estimate the beast is only about eight meters away. I hear chewing sounds. May be it is digging up roots? Fuck the hog! There is no way I can fall asleep with this omnivorous monster right next to me.
Narrated by Phil Rowe.
2023-06-1010 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeNightly Recollection 2 – The Apparition (Mind Twister #16)The wind suddenly drops, and I hear the breathing of a person behind me. I can smell a faint apple blossom. “This is Sarah,” says an elderly female voice. The voice does not come from behind me, but from somewhere in front of me. I cannot see anyone but am sure that person is very nearby. What happens next is one of the enigmatic secrets of the night.
Narrated by Phil Rowe.
2023-06-1011 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeNightly Recollection 1 – A Stalking (Mind Twister #15)All of a sudden, someone lights a lantern, a bit further down the path, at may be ninety feet from my position. The lantern swings from left to right and then veers off track, up a gentle slope. What am I to do? Should I follow the person carrying the lantern? Is this real or just an illusion?
Narrated by Phil Rowe.
2023-06-1013 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeNocturnal Adventures (Mind Twister #14)I intended to walk back home for five miles over a dirt track in pitch darkness. A fit person with a good vision can walk the route in about an hour or two. But not until sunrise would I re-emerge from the mountains. The strange thing is that my mind continues to make up stories about what happened to me that memorable night. Let me share with you, in the following three Mind Twisters, the most plausible recollections of events.
Narrated by Phil Rowe.
2023-06-1006 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeAdeline’s Dream (Harlequin story #16)Maxwell, struggling with his own issues, argues with Adeline, who suggests he should talk to his mother about his trauma. Finally, Adeline, the key character of this story, asks Maxwell if he will still love her, as their story draws to a close.
Narrated by Revoicer.
2023-06-0404 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeClytemnestra (Harlequin story #15)Clytemnestra tells her side of the story, accusing Agamemnon of being a selfish monster. She justifies killing him to regain control of her life.
Narrated by Revoicer.
2023-06-0405 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeMount Olympus (Harlequin story #14)Maxwell is invited by Aphrodite to meet Athena on Mount Olympus. Athena provides new information, and Father Demetrius presents Maxwell with a scroll containing his fate.
Narrated by Revoicer.
2023-06-0410 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeSparta (Harlequin story #13)Maxwell intervenes when a group of men taunt a young woman named Hecate in Sparta. He stands up for what is right, believing that his words have the power to influence others.
Narrated by Zoey.
2023-06-0404 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeFather Demetrius (Harlequin story #12)Father Demetrius advises Maxwell to use his writing skills to harmonize Athena's virtues and Aphrodite's passions. Maxwell resolves to incorporate both to help Adeline seek redemption.
Narrated by Phil Rowe.
2023-06-0405 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeWriter's Dilemma (Harlequin story #11)Athena and Aphrodite both seek Maxwell's story to promote their interests in Sparta. Maxwell seeks guidance from Father Demetrius, who advises him to balance the virtues of both goddesses.
Narrated by Phil Rowe.
2023-06-0404 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeArtificial Myths (Harlequin story #10)Maxwell uses an electronic platform to rewrite his story, with Athena and Aphrodite playing larger roles. Athena protects Adeline, while Aphrodite creates a romantic conflict for Maxwell.
Narrated by Phil Rowe.
2023-06-0406 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeAthena's Doubts (Harlequin story #9)Athena, daughter of Zeus, reveals how the Trojan War started with a dispute among goddesses over a Golden Apple. Maxwell learns about Athena and Hera's displeasure with the outcome.
Narrated by Zoey.
2023-06-0411 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeHarlequin's Heart (Harlequin story #6)Adeline questions Maxwell's motives for writing about her family and her tragic past. Maxwell explains his inspiration but begins losing control over his own narrative.
Narrated by Zoey.
2023-06-0412 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeThe Dupin Files: Sherlock Holmes - Part 2 (Mind Twister #32)Applying the method of ratiocination to corroborate with evidence the claims made by Sherlock Holmes in his court filing against Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, private detective Auguste Dupin ‒ who was trained in his craft and the method of ratiocination by no one less than Edgar Allan Poe ‒ uncovers some salient facts concerning Doyle's treatment of his most famous creation.
A short story by Maxwell Conroe where detective Dupin supports Sherlock Holmes' claims against Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, revealing significant information about Doyle's treatment of his renowned character, narrated by Axel.
2023-05-2808 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeThe Dupin Files: Sherlock Holmes - Part 1 (Mind Twister #32)Applying the method of ratiocination to corroborate with evidence the claims made by Sherlock Holmes in his court filing against Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, private detective Auguste Dupin ‒ who was trained in his craft and the method of ratiocination by no one less than Edgar Allan Poe ‒ uncovers some salient facts concerning Doyle's treatment of his most famous creation.
A short story by Maxwell Conroe where detective Dupin supports Sherlock Holmes' claims against Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, revealing significant information about Doyle's treatment of his renowned character, narrated by Axel.
2023-05-2807 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeThe Dupin Files: Hercule Poirot - Part 2 (Mind Twister #31)Recently, detective Chevalier C. Auguste has been retained in the service of his great friends and successors, Mr. Hercule Poirot and Mr. Sherlock Holmes. Dupin's mission is quite simple: lay bare the basis for their claims, uncover any cover-up attempts by third parties, and document in minute detail his findings, applying rigorously the method of ratiocination. Focusing on Poirot's case, detective Dupin uncovers some unsavory details about Agatha Christie's treatment of her legendary creation.
A short story by Maxwell Conroe where detective Dupin investigates the claims made by Hercule Poirot against Agatha Christie, uncovering unsavory details about h...
2023-05-2805 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeThe Dupin Files: Hercule Poirot - Part 1 (Mind Twister #31)Recently, detective Chevalier C. Auguste has been retained in the service of his great friends and successors, Mr. Hercule Poirot and Mr. Sherlock Holmes. Dupin's mission is quite simple: lay bare the basis for their claims, uncover any cover-up attempts by third parties, and document in minute detail his findings, applying rigorously the method of ratiocination. Focusing on Poirot's case, detective Dupin uncovers some unsavory details about Agatha Christie's treatment of her legendary creation.
A short story by Maxwell Conroe where detective Dupin investigates the claims made by Hercule Poirot against Agatha Christie, uncovering unsavory details about h...
2023-05-2811 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeRetaliation by Hercule Poirot and Sherlock Holmes (Mind Twister #30)Fallen out with their original creators, Sherlock Holmes and Hercule Poirot have teamed up to seek retribution for their sufferings. The charges filed against Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Agatha Christie, and their literary estates include coercion into addiction to substance abuse, psychological torture and sustained cruelty, resulting in a range of ailments including suicidal thoughts due to post traumatic stress disorder. The charges are corroborated by the detectives’ respective long-time aides-de-camp, Watson and Hastings.
A short story by Maxwell Conroe where Sherlock Holmes and Hercule Poirot team up to seek revenge against their creators, accusing them of mis...
2023-05-2807 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeWriting for Impact (Mind Twister #1)A short story by Maxwell Conroe emphasizing the importance of writing for the love of words rather than focusing on societal issues.
Some stories succeed to captivate our attention simply by their timeliness. Writing such stories may be fun, but more so is writing purely out of love for words – without confinement to any specific contemporary societal issue. That mindset should awake the poet in any aspiring writer.
2023-05-2700 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeNewtonian Dream (Mind Twister #39)A short story by Maxwell Conroe imaging a chase involving Hooke, Leibniz, and Freeman Dyson pursuing Isaac Newton through the Royal Society, leading to the destruction of Newton's portraits, narrated by Tim.
Hooke and Leibniz were chasing Newton across the corridors of the Royal Society of London (founded in 1660); Newton appeared covered in tar and feathers. In their pursuit, Hooke and Leibniz were joined by Freeman Dyson, who had passed only recently. With great vigor, Dyson raided the premises of the Royal Society. He was pulling down a famous portrait of Newton, one where Isaac is 46 years o...
2023-05-2717 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeBartering with Zeus (Harlequin story #8)Maxwell hears the divine voice of Zeus, who accuses him of neglecting the Greek gods in his previous works. Zeus laughs maniacally while Maxwell plans to ask Athena for help.
Narrated by Phil Rowe.
2023-05-2607 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeLabyrinth of Myths (Harlequin story #7)Maxwell focuses on Athena's role in the House of Agamemnon's tragedy, linking it to the Trojan War. He reflects on the relevance of ancient myths to modern conflicts fought over ideology.
Narrated by Phil Rowe.
2023-05-2604 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeDr. Freud (Harlequin story #5)Maxwell consults Dr. Freud, who suggests Maxwell's obsession with Adeline and her family may stem from suppressed sexual desires and the Elektra Complex, where girls compete with their mothers for their father's attention.
Narrated by Phil Rowe.
2023-05-2620 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeElektra (Harlequin story #4)Adeline reveals that she is Elektra, the daughter of Clytemnestra and Agamemnon. She shares more about the deaths in the House of Agamemnon and implicates Athena in her mother's murder.
Narrated by Jane Speaks.
2023-05-2613 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeGreek Tragedy (Harlequin story #3)Maxwell learns about Clytemnestra's murder by her son Orestes and the involvement of Athena's Furies. He delves into Greek mythology to understand the tragic events.
Narrated by Jane Speaks.
2023-05-2612 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeAdeline's Reappearance (Harlequin story #2)Adeline reappears in Maxwell's life, initially causing confusion. Maxwell apologizes for being rude, and Adeline returns to her old self, continuing to dance, giggle, and tell stories.
Narrated by Jane Speaks.
2023-05-2610 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeA Harlequin's Jest (Harlequin story #1)Maxwell Conroe is visited by a Harlequin named Adeline who challenges his obsession with logical answers and proposes the idea of time reversal. Maxwell questions the purpose of creating illusions and surprise.
Narrated by Jane Speaks.
2023-05-2605 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeConroe on writing Coetzee's story (Mind Twister #36)A short story by Maxwell Conroe exploring John Coetzee's Nobel Laureate lecture and the psychiatrist's defense of Coetzee's reputation, narrated by Tim.
John Coetzee delivered one of the most audacious Nobel Laureate lectures on record. He took his audience all the way back to the romantic times of Daniel Defoe. Coetzee's lecture appears a very taxing piece of writing and to Maxwell seemingly lacks utility; then his psychiatrist steps in to defend Coetzee’s reputation.
2023-05-2602 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeMesmerized by Coetzee - Part 2 (Mind Twister #36)A short story by Maxwell Conroe exploring John Coetzee's Nobel Laureate lecture and the psychiatrist's defense of Coetzee's reputation, narrated by Tim.
John Coetzee delivered one of the most audacious Nobel Laureate lectures on record. He took his audience all the way back to the romantic times of Daniel Defoe. Coetzee's lecture appears a very taxing piece of writing and to Maxwell seemingly lacks utility; then his psychiatrist steps in to defend Coetzee’s reputation.
2023-05-2606 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeMesmerized by Coetzee - Part 1 (Mind Twister #36)A short story by Maxwell Conroe exploring John Coetzee's Nobel Laureate lecture and the psychiatrist's defense of Coetzee's reputation, narrated by Tim.
John Coetzee delivered one of the most audacious Nobel Laureate lectures on record. He took his audience all the way back to the romantic times of Daniel Defoe. Coetzee's lecture appears a very taxing piece of writing and to Maxwell seemingly lacks utility; then his psychiatrist steps in to defend Coetzee’s reputation.
2023-05-2606 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeGrabbing Attention: Jagger's Obituary (Mind Twister #53)A short story by Maxwell Conroe reflecting on Mick Jagger's ability to gain attention and promote visibility for himself and his band, The Rolling Stones, narrated by Jane Speaks.
Getting attention is half the trick, knew Mr. Mick Jagger all along ‒ he never passed an opportunity to promote visibility of both himself and The Stones, his legendary rock band. Behind the poker face of Mick’s stage persona hid a determined and dedicated professional performer, as was observed up-close by a young medical doctor in the 1970s when he took Mr. Jagger in a Volkswagen Beetle to an X...
2023-05-2605 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeHaunted by Apparitions and Looming Insanity (Mind Twister #4)A short story by Maxwell Conroe wherein the protagonist encounters a vision of Albert Einstein, leading to recurring nightmares suggesting their responsibility for Einstein's death, narrated by Samuel L. Jackson.
Albert just happens to be there, in my living room. When I write ‘Albert’, it is not a parrot flying in from the terrace. No, this concerns ‘the’ Albert – Mr. Einstein, who simply appears and states “You know why I am here?” He looks exactly what you’d expect him to look like. When he finally leaves, I suffer from recurrent nightmares with frightening scenes; all suggesting that I am someho...
2023-05-2614 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeGarden Secret (Mind Twister #55)A short story by Maxwell Conroe exploring the hidden secret within the seemingly innocent garden of a reclusive writer named Isaac, narrated by Jane Speaks.
Living alone in his secluded homestead, surrounded by his garden, Isaac (a writer) cares little for socials and generally thrives living the secluded life he had chosen to live. The seemingly innocent garden he dreamily stares into from his writer's den – it actually harbors a dark secret long lost.
2023-05-2611 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeQueen of Hearts in a Hobbit-hole (Mind Twister #29)A short story by Maxwell Conroe exploring how fictional characters like Alice and the Hobbits gain more recognition than their creators and imagines Alice as the Queen of Hearts in a society fighting against global warming, narrated by Stephen Fry.
In the long run, the main characters of classic stories frequently become much better known than their creators. For example, Alice – from Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland – and the Hobbits – from J.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit and its Lord of the Rings-sequel – these characters presently have higher name recognition than their creators. Lately, the retired characters (with the...
2023-05-2606 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeVonnegut's Confetti (Mind Twister #51)A short story by Maxwell Conroe comparing the author's Mind Twisters to Kurt Vonnegut's graphic illustrations called Confetti, narrated by Jane Speaks.
I call my stories Mind Twisters. That is perhaps a very pretentious label, as I realized when stumbling upon the works by Kurt Vonnegut ‒ his graphic illustrations are labeled with a lovely unpretentious name: Confetti. Let me explain first what Kurt wanted to convey to his readers in Confetti, then I’ll come back to what I am after with my Mind Twisters.
2023-05-2607 minShort stories by Maxwell ConroeMartyrs of Azov (Essay XIV)A short story by Maxwell Conroe inspired by Tolstoy's Hadji Murad, highlighting the tragedy of soldiers in a steel plant and the inevitability of human suffering, narrated by Samuel L. Jackson.
Maxwell shares a story where Tolstoy's war-memories of Hadji Murad are updated to highlight the tragedy of dying soldiers in the Hell of Mariupol's steel plant. War struggles never cease to create men tough as thistles. Tolstoy’s description of the thistle, which opens his story, is the tangible object of our suffering as men in life; ending with us sagging in quicksand or sticky mud th...
2023-05-2311 min
Café & Networking PodcastMaxwell Ivey, The Blind Blogger, Conroe, Texas, USAMaxwell Ivey, The Blind Blogger, Inspirational self-help author, founder of What´s Your Excuse Network. Talks about his online training program "On The Air", an 8 week course to help entrepreneurs learn to use podcast interviews to share stories, reach new audiences, and grow their brand. https://theblindblogger.net
2022-05-0920 min
Dark Dark World - A True Crime PodcastEpisode 17: Young Killers from ConroeThe discovery of the body of a local nurse floating in Crater Lake is only the beginning of this harrowing story of murder and execution in Montgomery County, Texas. *Sources: Perry v. State, 158 S.W.3d 438 (Tex.Crim.App. 2004). (Direct Appeal); Texas Department of Criminal Justice; Texas Attorney General media advisory: Thursday, June 24, 2010; Into the Abyss(2011), Directed by Werner Herzog; "Perry Put to Death" by Nancy Flake, Montgomery County Courier.*Music: Jordan Crittenden, Doug Maxwell, Lish Grooves, Silent Partner, The Whole Other.*Promo: The Murder in My Family http://themurderinmyfamily.com/*To support Dark Dark World: htt...
2019-10-2542 min
Texas 10-31: A Texas True Crime PodcastGrace & Tiffany Purnhagen & Diane Maxwell JacksonThis week Hannah and Cassie keep it pretty short and sweet for y'all!
Hannah begins episode 45 with a double homicide in Conroe. Grace and Tiffany Purnhagen were two young sisters who were brutally killed in the woods. Did their killer truly have help or was it all done by one man.. or a bottle..or a broomstick?
Cassie closes the episode with the murder of Diane Maxwell Jackson. Her case had been cold for decades, but in the end her brother's persistence and career change might have been what helped solve her murder.
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2019-02-0858 min