Oncetherewasapod - Podcast Details

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Once There Was a PodcastS2Ep6: Storytime- Born and RaisedWelcome to this week’s Storytime episode! On the off weeks from interviews, there are shorter, storytime episodes. These episodes will share one or two stories, along with the stories behind them. This past week, I was blindsided by a small relic that triggered so many memories. Those memories became the basis for this week’s storytime. Where and how we are brought up lays the foundation for who we are today. Special Thanks to: My Parents Alex (my sound guru) Helena and Weston Fantz (of the band Not Jupiter) fo...2025-06-0209 min

Once There Was a PodcastS2Ep5: There Was a LearnerOur next guest is the founder of the Learning Lab, Trevor Ragan! Join us as we discuss how he went from trying out for Duke basketball to making sushi to helping people become better learners. Even more important than all of that, we discuss the role that storytelling has in that process. Join us as we have the most comprehensive discussion about the power of storytelling that Once There Was a Podcast has had yet! Storytime: Quarter Catching Special Thanks to: Trevor Ragan Alex (my sound gu...2025-05-2645 min

Once There Was a PodcastS2Ep4: Storytime- The Tale of Slim PickensWelcome to this week’s Storytime Episode. On the off weeks from interviews, there are shorter, storytime episodes. These episodes will share one or two stories and the story behind them. This week I’m joined by a special guest, Malachi Rothlisberger! Malachi was one of my senior speech students this year and was a 3-time individual All-Stater (the highest honor you can receive in the IHSSA) during his career! This week, we are showcasing the future of storytelling as the accent extraordinaire himself performs and tells “The Tale of Slim Pickens.” Enjoy! Special Thanks to: Mala...2025-05-1918 min

Once There Was a PodcastS2Ep3: There Was a RoleplayerOur next guest is the performer/influencer/roleplayer, Betty Kay Merkle! Join us as we discuss her love of theater and performing, vocal coaching, the joys of playing roleplaying games and using them to tell stories, as well as playing those games for performance on the internet. No matter what the role, she follows the philosophy of creating more than you consume. Storytime: PAX, Rats, and Spenser Starke Special Thanks to: Betty Kay Merkle Alex (my sound guru) Helena and Weston Fantz (of the ba...2025-05-121h 02

Once There Was a PodcastS2Ep2: Storytime- Teacher Appreciation WeekWelcome to our first Storytime Episode of Season 2. On the off weeks from interviews, there are shorter, storytime episodes. These episodes will share one or two stories and the story behind them. This week is Teacher Appreciation Week, and we’re taking time to share stories of those teachers who have inspired us the most! Special Thanks to: Mr. Young Mrs. Rau Teachers Everywhere! Alex (my sound guru) Helena and Weston Fantz (of the band Not Jupiter) for the music My Wife and Daughter...2025-05-0513 min

Once There Was a PodcastS2Ep1: There Was a Sports DirectorOur first guest of Season 2 is WHO TV13 Sports Director, Keith Murphy! Join us as we discuss his path from athlete to sports reporter, covering the Gainesville Ripper, making the move to the great state of Iowa, and what makes a great sports story. Storytime: The Gate Crashing El Camino *After recording, Keith corrected himself and let me know the El Camino shirts were a gift for his father’s 80th birthday. Special Thanks to: Keith Murphy Alex (my sound guru) Helena a...2025-04-2850 min

Once There Was a PodcastS2T1: Season 2 TrailerWelcome to Once There Was a Podcast! It’s almost time for Season 2! Episode 1 will be released on April 28th! We have some exciting guests this season who are looking to share their stories with you. We’re also looking to hear some of your stories! Check the Storytime Submission Link below to find out more information! Otherwise, check us out on Instagram and Facebook for more information! Special Thanks to: Alex (my sound guru) Helena and Weston Fantz (of the band Not Jupiter) for the music My Wife and Daught...2025-04-1402 min

Once There Was a PodcastBonus: Storytime- School Counselor's WeekWelcome to a Bonus Storytime episode! It’s the start of the longest, short month of the year. The days are finally getting longer. We’ve all gone a little stir-crazy from being inside and not getting enough sunlight. In the school systems, we have someone who can help with that: the school counselor. This week is National School Counselor’s Week! We dedicate this episode to those unsung heroes of school who help ALL of us navigate dealing with stressors and their associated emotions while helping guide us into the world after K-12 schooling. This will be th...2025-02-0307 min

Once There Was a PodcastBonus: Storytime- Christmas HeartsWelcome to a Bonus Storytime episode! ‘Twas the day before Christmas and you’ve come for a tale. Sit right there because here’s one I will regale. This week we have one of my favorite memories from Christmas past. This story includes food, family, neighbors, and a “friendly” game of hearts. Special Thanks to: Alex (my sound guru) My Wife and Daughter You Instagram: oncetherewasapod Facebook: Once There Was a Podcast Additional Audio and Music: David L...2024-12-2408 min

Once There Was a PodcastBonus: Storytime- Turkey Trottin'Welcome to a Bonus Storytime episode! It’s the busiest travel day of the year and you’ve come to the right place! Here at Once There Was a Podcast, we have the perfect audio media for your plane, train, or automobile ride as you cross the country. In honor of the holiday, we even have a holiday bonus episode to start up your holiday spirit! Enjoy your Thanksgiving! We’re thankful for all of you! Special Thanks to: Our Listeners Turkey Trot Race Directors Everywhere My Brother for starting my lo...2024-11-2711 min

Once There Was a PodcastBonus Interview: There Was a Season 1 RecapBack in June when I was interviewing Shawn Peterson, he suggested I do a talkback episode at some point where we flip the script and someone else interviews me about the podcast. Well, here it is. Please welcome back guests and friends of the podcast, Shawn Peterson and Isaiah Stansbery. In this special episode, they pick my brain about what I learned and discovered recording the first season of Once There Was a Podcast. Storytime: 3 Dads and a Podcast Special Thanks to: Shawn Peterson Isaiah Stansbery Alex...2024-11-1856 min

Once There Was a PodcastBonus: Storytime- Veteran's DayWelcome to a Bonus Storytime episode! Today 11th day of the 11th month. Here in the U.S., we observe Veteran’s Day. Today is a special day of gratitude and thankfulness. Find a veteran today and thank them for their service. Special Thanks to: All of our Veteran’s My Father My Uncles My Granpa My former students Isaiah Stansbery Alex (my sound guru) My Wife and Daughter (CJ herself) You Instagram: oncether...2024-11-1107 min

Once There Was a PodcastEp24: Storytime- The Invader/People Are ImportantWelcome to the Season 1 finale! We end the first season with a storytime episode. This week’s storytime is a two-parter. We begin with a press conference from an extra-terrestrial invader. Their message is not one of peace but one that forces reflection by the people of Earth. Then, you’ll hear the brief story of the origins of the podcast’s sign-off “Everyone has an important story to tell” and how the two are linked. It’s been an absolutely fantastic first season! Here at Once There Was a Podcast we cannot express our thanks and our gratit...2024-10-2116 min

Once There Was a PodcastEp23: There Was a Table of Friends Rolling DiceThe final interview of Season 1 is upon us! Our guests (PLURAL?!?) this week, are my college buddies and gaming friends: Mike Barkse, Joe Murphree, and Jordan Zumberge! We discuss the joys of tabletop roleplaying games (aka TTRPGs such as Dungeons and Dragons), designing characters, telling stories collectively, and Joe’s notoriously bad dice rolls! TTRPGs are a fantastic way to spend time with your friends and can be shaped into whatever story you want to tell! Storytime: Let’s Roll! Special Thanks to: Mike Barske Joe Murphr...2024-10-141h 14

Once There Was a PodcastEp22: Storytime- The Local LegendWelcome to our next Storytime episode. On the off weeks from interviews, there are shorter, storytime episodes. These episodes will share one or two stories and the story behind them. It’s also cold and flu season in school districts so please forgive my voice as I fought through congestion this past week! This week I share a story about a man and local legend I had the honor of knowing. We bonded over our love of running and teaching. He was well-loved by many and is missed by just as many. Special Thanks to: Alex...2024-10-0710 min

Once There Was a PodcastEp21: There Was a Curator of All Things NerdyWe recorded on location this week so please forgive our audio quality at times! Our guest this week is Rob Rogers the owner of Limited Edition Comics/Salon! Join us as we discuss how he became the owner of the world’s first comics/salon shop, sharing his collection with the world, and the important stories we find in comics. If you’re looking for a good comic book, check out Limited Edition Comics and Collectibles on College Hill in Cedar Falls, IA! Storytime: An Unattended Child at a Convention Special Thanks to...2024-09-3053 min

Once There Was a PodcastEp20: To Destroy the Moon! (A Villain's Monologue)Welcome to our next Storytime episode. On the off weeks from interviews, there are shorter, storytime episodes. These episodes will share one or two stories and the story behind them. This week I share a comedic piece I wrote for a student to perform for their acting category in Speech. It’s one of the most off-the-wall, Month Python-esque things I’ve ever written. I hope it brings a smile to your face. Enjoy! Special Thanks to: James Halverson My Brother for his well-timed, blurry picture of the moon that he sent me tw...2024-09-2309 min

Once There Was a PodcastEp19: There Was a Reminder That Your Story Is Not OverIt’s National Suicide Prevention Month. Our guest this week is Alyssa Cobie-Nuss! Join us as we discuss how she became a passionate advocate for suicide prevention, her work as a 988 crisis counselor, mental health counseling, and how someone can support suicide prevention organizations. Please, if you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, reach out to 988. Check out the links below for more information: 988 Chat Lifeline Link 211 American Foundation for Suicide Prevention National Alliance on Mental Illness QPR Alive and Running Iowa 2024-09-1632 min

Once There Was a PodcastEp18: Storytime- The LetterWelcome to our next Storytime episode. On the off weeks from interviews, there are shorter, storytime episodes. These episodes will share one or two stories and the story behind them. This week I share a letter that is very near and dear to my heart. A letter of wise words and other wisdom that brings a smile to my face any time I read it. Special Thanks to: My Cousin Joyce Alex (my sound guru) My Wife and Daughter You Instagram: oncether...2024-09-0908 min

Once There Was a PodcastEp17: There Was a Fellow PodcasterEp17: There Was a Fellow Podcaster Our guest this week is Jon Francois! Join us as we discuss how he got into radio, shifted into podcasting, and now helps people reminisce about one of their favorite 90s sitcoms. After listening to this episode, check out the Delicious Recap: a Family Matters Rewatch Podcast! Storytime: Making the Best of a Bad Situation Special Thanks to: Jon Francois Alex (my sound guru) My Wife and Daughter You Instagram: once...2024-09-0243 min

Once There Was a PodcastEp16: Storytime- Those Who Can'tWelcome to our next Storytime episode. On the off weeks from interviews, there are shorter, storytime episodes. These episodes will share one or two stories and the story behind them. This week I share a story that is an homage to teachers everywhere. I love teaching and all those who give their time to teach. This is my shoutout to teachers to let them know that their efforts do not go unseen and they are appreciated! Special Thanks to: TEACHERS! Alex (my sound guru) My Wife and Daughter You 2024-08-2609 min

Once There Was a PodcastAnnouncement: Iowa Podcast AwardsHello Listeners! I have a quick but exciting announcement! Once There Was a Podcast was nominated for an honors award from the Iowa Podcast Awards! Once There Was a Podcast is eligible for the Emerging Podcast Award among other awards! The Honors Awards will be voted upon by a panel of Iowa Podcasters. In addition to that, any and all nominees for any of the Iowa Podcast Awards are eligible for the People’s Choice award. If you would like to vote for Once There was a Podcast or any other Iowa podcast that has been nominated, you can go to th...2024-08-2201 min

Once There Was a PodcastEp15: There Was an Emerging New WriterOur guest this week is Mariya Yasinovska! Join us as we discuss how she discovered her love of writing, shifting from Law to English, writing and editing for a paper, and finding stories to tell. Also, as we’ve been discussing for the past month, there might be a little speech talk involved as well. Storytime: A Creation Story Special Thanks to: Mariya Yasinovska Alex (my sound guru) My Wife and Daughter You Instagram: oncetherewasapod mariyaya...2024-08-1950 min

Once There Was a PodcastEp14: Storyview- For the Love of Speech (A Bromance Story)What’s this listeners?!? It’s a storytime week but it sounds like an interview?!? Welcome to the first-ever “Storyview” episode. It was meant to be an interview episode but in hindsight, it’s definitely a story. It is a story of two people developing an enduring friendship (one might even say a bromance) over a shared passion. So, this week we welcome Shawn Peterson back as he and I swap stories about our love of speech and coaching the next generation of storytellers. We also share the story of how our “bromance” came to be. We hope you find th...2024-08-1250 min

Once There Was a PodcastEp13: There Was a Former Professional WrestlerBuckle in Listeners! We’ve got a long one! Our guest this week is Shawn Peterson and he’s got stories to tell! Join us as we discuss how he discovered his love of professional wrestling, found his way into the business, and learned how to tell a story in the ring! If you’ve never watched professional wrestling before, you might just have a new understanding and appreciation for it! Storytime: Adam Saves the Day Special Thanks to: Shawn Peterson Alex (my sound guru) My Wife and D...2024-08-051h 17

Once There Was a PodcastEp12: Storytime- CJSee the Author's Note Below for some extra information: Welcome to our next Storytime episode. On the off weeks from interviews, there are shorter, storytime episodes. These episodes will share one or two stories and the story behind them. This week I have Claire Britt coming back to narrate two stories that are very personal to me: CJ’s Day Gets Ruined and CJ and her Blanket. These stories were inspired by my daughter and were written for Claire to perform during her high school speech career. She is and always will be my narrator for these storie...2024-07-2918 min

Once There Was a PodcastEp11: There Was a Speech KidEp11: There Was a Speech Kid Our guest this week is Claire Britt. Join us as we discuss how she discovered her love of speech, is now studying leadership with a side of leadership, is training in the ROTC, and has found a way to transfer her speech skills to her new pursuits. Over the next month, several interviews will showcase the skills learned in Speech and Debate programs and how they transfer beyond the activity. Storytime: Can I have a Turtle? Special Thanks to: Claire Britt ...2024-07-2239 min

Once There Was a PodcastEp10: Storytime- The LakeWelcome to our next Storytime episode. On the off weeks from interviews, there are shorter, storytime episodes. These episodes will share one or two stories and the story behind them. This week I share a story about my memories of our family cabin. The cabin has been in my mom’s family for decades. It’s been the place of most of my family vacations and a source of many stories. Please enjoy a little rest and relaxation at The Lake. Special Thanks to: Alex (my sound guru) My Wife and Daughter...2024-07-1508 min

Once There Was a PodcastBonus: 1000 Downloads! Thank you!Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! It’s the little things in life that make you smile and Once There Was a Podcast just hit 1000 downloads! So today I say thank you and give you a little preview of what to expect for the rest of SEASON 1! Special Thanks to: ALL OF YOU! ALL OF MY GUESTS! Alex (my sound guru) My Wife and Daughter You Instagram: oncetherewasapod Facebook: Once There Was a Podcast...2024-07-1105 min

Once There Was a PodcastEp9: There Was a FilmmakerEp9: There Was a Filmmaker Our guest this week is Dave Riemer. Join us as we discuss how he discovered his love of film, got into the business, learned the difference between topic and story, found the power of story, and gained an appreciation for the human spirit. Storytime: Human Perseverance Special Thanks to: Dave Riemer Alex (my sound guru) My Wife and Daughter You Instagram: oncetherewasapod localsfilms Facebook: On...2024-07-0844 min

Once There Was a PodcastEp8: Storytime- I'm Sorry For Your LossContent warning below. Welcome to our next Storytime episode. On the off weeks from interviews, there are shorter, storytime episodes. These episodes will share one or two stories and the story behind them. This week we brought back our guest from last week, Mady Ney. This week, we share the piece I wrote for her senior year Acting performance, I’m Sorry for Your Loss. CONTENT WARNING: This story does discuss suicide and bullying. If these are hard topics for you, please listen responsibly. If you or someone you know is struggling...2024-07-0115 min

Once There Was a PodcastEp7: There Was a Future Professional StorytellerOur guest this week is Mady Ney. Join us as we discuss how she discovered her love of theater, Taylor Swift, three-act structure, her theater and speech career, and where she plans to go from there. Storytime: Shoeless Mady Ney Special Thanks to: Mady Ney Geri Ney Alex (my sound guru) My Wife and Daughter You Instagram: oncetherewasapod Facebook: Once There Was a Podcast Additional Audio and Music:2024-06-2441 min

Once There Was a PodcastBonus: Storytime- 339 MilesSurprise! A Bonus Episode! I had a backup story this week, just in case Alyssa and I couldn’t find time to record. Instead of sitting on it, I decided to release the story anyway. For your bonus listening pleasure, I present the story of a bunch of people with questionable sensibilities doing something very questionable for a good cause. Special Thanks to: Relay Iowa TYRU Alex (my sound guru) My Wife and Daughter You Instagram: oncetherewasapod F...2024-06-2013 min

Once There Was a PodcastEp6: Storytime- The ProposalEp6: Storytime- The Proposal Welcome to our third Storytime Episode. On the off weeks from interviews, there are shorter, storytime episodes. These episodes will share one or two stories and the story behind them. This week we have a special guest, my wife Alyssa. It’s our anniversary this month and she joins me this week as we tell the story about how I proposed to her. Spoilers: She said yes. Special Thanks to: Alex (my sound guru) My Wife and Daughter You Instagram...2024-06-1717 min

Once There Was a PodcastEp5: There Was a Change AgentEp5: There Was a Change Agent Our guest this week is Laura Williams. Join us as we discuss her passion for education, her shift to becoming a change agent, the Jabberwocky, her new book, and which butt cheek you lift when… We’ll leave it at that. Storytime: A Birthday for Brennan Special Thanks to: Laura Williams Alex (my sound guru) My Wife and Daughter You Instagram: oncetherewasapod mrswilliams21c Additional...2024-06-1040 min

Once There Was a PodcastEp4: Storytime- A Core MemoryWelcome to our second Storytime Episode. On the off weeks from interviews, there are shorter, storytime episodes. These episodes will share one or two stories and the story behind them. This week is a story pulled from Tracy’s childhood and a morning spent with his father. We will also spend a little time discussing vulnerability. Special Thanks to: Alex (my sound guru) My Wife and Daughter You Instagram: oncetherewasapod Additional Audio and Music: Franz Gordon/Morning Blues/Courte...2024-06-0310 min

Once There Was a PodcastEp3: There Was a Visual ArtistEp3: There Was a Visual Artist Our Guest this week is Sarah Pisney. Join us as we discuss her love of art, teaching art, communicating emotions and experiences through art, and now using art to heal. Check our the Instagram links below to see the artwork we discussed and more of Sarah’s work. Storytime: Marching in D.C. Special Thanks to: Sarah Pisney Alex (my sound guru) My Wife and Daughter You Instagram: oncetherewasapod sara...2024-05-2846 min

Once There Was a PodcastEp2: Storytime- Dodgeball (A War Story)Welcome to our first Storytime Episode. On the off weeks from interviews, there will be shorter, storytime episodes. These episodes will share one or two stories and the story behind them. This week is a story inspired by last week’s guest, Isaiah Stansbery. We will also spend a little time discussing inspiration. Special Thanks to: Alex (my sound guru) My Wife and Daughter You Instagram: oncetherewasapod Additional Audio and Music: Franz Gordon/Morning Blues/Courtesy of Epidemic Sou...2024-05-2011 min

Once There Was a PodcastEp1: There Was a Jack-Of-All-TradesOur guest this week is Isaiah Stansbery. Join us as we discuss his numerous life experiences, his grandfather, his love of the fantasy genre, and why we collect stories. Storytime: A Kinder, Gentler Army Special Thanks to: Isaiah Stansbery Alex (my sound guru) My Wife and Daughter You Instagram: oncetherewasapod Additional Audio and Music: Franz Gordon/Morning Blues/Courtesy of Epidemic Sound High School Crowd 1/Courtesy of Epidemic Sound 2024-05-1336 min

Once There Was a PodcastEp 0: There Was a HostOne final preview before we officially begin. Consider it a prologue to the greater story at hand. Today’s episode is about… me? I suppose we could also call this episode, “There Was a Quest”! A short, little episode about who I am and why I’m starting the show. Episode 1 will officially drop next week! Check us out on Instagram for more information and release dates! Special Thanks to: Alex (my sound guru) My Wife and Daughter You Instagram: oncetherewasapod Additional...2024-05-0906 min

Once There Was a PodcastTrailer: There Was an AnnouncementWelcome to Once There Was a Podcast! It’s time to find out what the show is all about and what to expect in the upcoming weeks! Check us out on Instagram for more information and release dates! Special Thanks to: Alex (my sound guru) My Wife and Daughter You Instagram: oncetherewasapod Additional Audio and Music: Franz Gordon/Morning Blues/Courtesy of Epidemic Sound High School Crowd 1/Courtesy of Epidemic Sound 2024-05-0501 min