In the Know!

Thank you for listening. Have you been to Cabo Verde?  How was your visit? Do you know anyone who was misdiagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis? Tell us in the comments section. We want hear your stories. Be sure to subscribe and share with your family and friends. Contact me at [email protected] Diann Schindler Editor DiannAbroad.com Life After 50: Aging with grace, style and grit. The Craft of Writing YouTube Playlist Intro and Outgo Music, " The Amelia Island Sun," was written for me by incredible violinist and composer, Rafael Javadov. Interlude music, "Journey," by Rafael Javadov.

Did you know with approximately 260 million native speakers and 35 million second language speakers, Portuguese has approximately 300 million total speakers worldwide? How is it that the Portuguese language is such a worldwide language, given Portugal's size? Did you know with approximately 260 million native speakers and 35 million second language speakers, Portuguese has approximately 300 million total speakers worldwide? How is it that the Portuguese language is such a worldwide language, given Portugal's size? Who were the Portuguese explorers during the Age of Discovery? Listen to this podcast to find out how this language spread all over the world, to this day. Dr. Schindler also discusses the challenges she faced completing a Portuguese language class where the instructor spoke only Portuguese practically the entire grueling eight weeks, five days a week , four hours a day with only a 20 minute lunch break.   Why is Portuguese so difficult for new learners? And, what's Brazil got to do with it? Sources: Portuguese Language History and Wikipedia    Learn about Diann Schindler's latest book: What Lies Beneath the Willow. sequel to Kosovo mystery thriller Claim Denied. And, hear about her experiences recording her first novel, "Just a Girl," (ranked 6th best coming-of-age fiction by Amazon in 2017) for Amazon audible, coming soon .  Links: [email protected] https://www.diannabroad.com/podcast https://www.diannabroad.com [email protected] https://www.DiannSchindlerEditor.com Diann Schindler Editor YOUTUBE Channel: The Craft of Writing Music credits: Rafael Javadov "The Amelia Island Sun" Intro and Outgo Purple Plant Music. Icon: Smile, Icon; and Miracle Music, Icon.             [email protected] https://www.diannabroad.com/podcast https://www.diannabroad.com [email protected] https://www.DiannSchindlerEditor.com Diann Schindler Editor YOUTUBE Channel: The Craft of Writing   Copyright 2024 DiannAbroad All Rights Reserved  

This is a rerelease of the original podcast recorded on February 3, 2002, to celebrate Marla McDaniel's dedication to the Amelia Island Writers. She is retiring and starting a new chapter in her life in Florida. We thank her and wish her well!      Marla grew up between homes in south Florida and an Indiana family farm. She enjoys small towns, country roads, islands, antiques, and history. Amelia Island contains, within its small area, the qualities she and her family enjoy as their residence. Appreciation of historical sites led her to efforts in the preservation of old railroads, bridges and depots. She took part in the nationwide transportation agenda to recycle abandoned railroads into community trails. She likes to write non-fiction and values the camaraderie and support of writers in a vibrant artistic community. Marla retires as the coordinator of Amelia Island Writers (AIW), a chapter of FL Writers Association. AIW hosts monthly programs of interest for established and aspiring writers of all genres. Contact her at: [email protected]   Please contact: [email protected] DiannAbroad.com Music attributes:  "Miracle"  Music by Dream Machine; "Tiny People" Music by Alexei De Bronhe; Smile" Music by Gabriel   Widescreen Episode Artwork attribute:  116245741 © Rawpixel Images | Dreamstime.com  

With my current thriller manuscript ("Claim Denied") in the hands of beta readers, I had time to think about writing another book: a sequel, a thriller set in a small town with fascinating, quirky characters. When I looked back at a community on the Eastern Shore of Virginia I visited a few times in early 2000, I came upon a startling, sweet surprise! I dug deeper! It was clear: I had to write this novel!  I joined J. Thorn's 5-day challenge using his "Three Story Method", outlined the entire story, and uploaded the details in Plottr. I can access it at any time and get cracking! I'll do exactly that as soon as "Claim Denied" is published. Publication release is January 2021. Story and Song Neighborhood Bookstore on Amelia Island, FL has agreed to a book launch.  Please email me at [email protected] to receive publication information and an invitation to the book launch. Thank you for listening!  Please leave a comment and a rating. DiannAbroad.com Music for this podcast was provided by Rafael Javadov ("The Amelia Island Sun"), Ilya Truhanov ("Russian Soap Opera"), and Setuniman (violin sounds).  

Diann Schindler, DiannAbroad, takes us back to her 3rd grade geography class in Hamilton, Ohio, when her first thought of travelling outside the United States burst forth, infiltrating her head and her heart. She was nine years old. But, it wasn't until decades later that she truly acted on that notion, with full conviction, and came to understand that travelling is all about the people...meeting people from all walks of life and lands. Making connections is the true essence of broadening horizons, tolerance, understanding, and love. Diann tells us about two women she met: Marketa in Prague and Milly in Fez, Morocco. They helped her understand women are women, are women, all over the world, often with the same painful experiences.   BLOG: Prague, the City of 100 Bridges with a 1,100 year history.   Get your copy of "Claim Denied" HERE. Intro music is "The Amelia Island Sun" by Rafael Javadov.  Interlude is "Flight" Check out my websites: DiannAbroad.com and DiannSchindlerAuthor.com Write to Diann at [email protected]    

This is my first podcast of 2022! Why? You'll just have to listen. Meanwhile, here is the supporting information.  Here I am in Cascais, PT... my 40 minutes trek once a week from my apartment in Monte Estoril. Below, pics of the Men's International Tennis Tournament. The Estoril Open. That's Gasquet serving. Great day!  Dinner on the ocean with Cidalia and Nelia in Cascais. Below is a photo of my last book, "Claim Denied" published last year. To get your copy, click HERE. I talk about the challenges of writing the sequel, "The Secrets of Selby" (working title) in this podcast.  Thank you so much for listening Diann Schindler   [email protected]. DiannAbroad.com DiannSchindlerAuthor.com Intro and Outgo music by Musician and Composer, Rafael Javadov Other music "Smile" by Gabriel from Cons8

From her new home in Portugal and her last podcast for 2021, Diann Schindler focuses on mind improving meditation; moving from Madeira Island to Monte Estoril; and after 6 years as a solo nomad, her need to find a permanent home - where she can return after traveling.  Deepak Chopra's 21 Days of Abundance meditation podcasts.  Me on the northeast coast of Madeira Island.     Monte Estoril, the Monte Carlo of Portugal - my new community, near Lisbon, on the Iberian Peninsula.  My books: "Claim Denied"  "Just A Girl," and "The Essential Guide to a Life of Travel." My Amazon author page. Music is provided by my friend and incredible artist, Rafael Javadov: "The Amelia Island Sun, and "Journey" Thank you for listening! Diann Schindler, Facebook Author Page Diann Schindler Author Website DiannAbroad.com [email protected]

Diann reports on her first 2 weeks as a resident of Portugal. Starting with Madeira Island, she discusses the village of Machico and how it got its name in 1419, the filming of the 1956 "Moby Dick" movie off the shores of northeastern Madeira Island, and the challenging adjustments to living in a new culture.  Madeira Island Machico Church - listen to those bells! Machico Beach: Whalers of Madeira. Museu da Baleia Streets surfaces on Madeira that Diann discussed: My first apartment in Canico.   "Claim Denied" on Amazon Please comment, rate this podcast, and share with your friends. You can contact me at [email protected]  Be sure to subscribe! Check out my websites, as well:  DiannSchindlerAuthor.com  and DiannAbroad.com  The introduction and conclusion music is by Rafael Javadov, "The Amelia Island Sun." Interlude music is "Tiny People" by Alexei De Bronhe. Thank you for listening!

Dr. Phyllis Kuehnl Walters, aka Dr. K Walters, s is a retired clinical/forensic psychologist from Ohio. She was in private practice for over forty years and taught psychology classes at Sinclair Community College and The University of Dayton. She is married and enjoys being a wife, mother, Yaya, great grandmother, and friend to many!  She and her husband have been on 7 mission trips and are actively involved at Fairway Christian Church in The Villages, Florida. Dr. Kuehnl Walters is now "re-fired" as a published author of Christian inspirational books as well as her soon to be launched crime/romance novel. She served as Academic Dean of Casa Hope, International where she taught men who have mostly served time for alcohol and drug offenses. Dr. Kuehnl-Walters also enjoys playing golf, games, bookstores, beaches, sunsets, gospel and 60's music. She belongs to Florida Writers Association, Word Weavers International, Inc. and previously served as treasurer of the Writers League of The Villages. [email protected]          [email protected] "Wives Who Kill" - Sophie and Hannah: Two women with different backgrounds, different circumstances, and different mindsets. Yet, both are wanted for murder. What made them do it? Court-appointed forensic psychologist Dr. Rosie Klein untangles the web of circumstances surrounding each violent crime . . . and much more! At the recommendation of the judges and attorneys who appoint her to the cases, Dr. Klein first evaluates Sophie's case, then Hannah's state of mind at the time the women committed their separate crimes. Her search for mitigating factors, and her recommendations, will assist the Court during the sentencing phase of each woman's trial. Or should their charges of murder be commuted . . .based on what Dr. Rosie finds? You be the judge after you read the reasons behind Wives Who Kill. Click HERE for the FIRST podcast with Dr. Kuehnl Walters on March 5, 2020. *** "The Christmas Slayings" "Worry, Fret, and Fear... No More!: Covid-19 Edition" "Become a Beacon of Light: Develop the Fruit of the Spirit and Reflect God's Love" "Creating Balance & Purpose in Life: Finding Meaning in All Seasons & Stages of Life" Click HERE for Dr. Phyllis Kuehnl Walters Amazon Author Page.   You, too, can be interviewed on "In the Know!"  More information.      Music: "The Amelia Island Sun" by Rafael Javadov    Thank you for listening.            [email protected]  DiannAbroad.com  

Writers' block is real, and it came at me with a vengeance, cloaked in what I thought was celebratory excitement at the point I released my thriller novel manuscript to beta readers. When I mustered the courage to face the truth, paralysis was poised to take control. I had to change my thoughts, my emotions, my mind. Listen to my strategies to address a personal variety of writer's block. My next novel, a thriller entitled "Claim Denied" is coming soon. Email me at [email protected] for an advanced copy and/or for launching information.   "The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron (Three morning pages.) Note, I reference writing three morning pages but, to be clear, I didn't include it as a strategy for improving tennis ... only for addressing my writer's block.   "Short Tarot-Centered Meditation for Artists to Overcome Writing Fear" by Thea Fiore-Bloom (Scroll down to the middle of the page to find this meditation.) "The War of Art" by Steven Pressfield. Intro and outgo music: "The Amelia Island Sun" by Rafael Javadov Interlude music: "Headache" by Dream Machine Thank you for listening.  [email protected]   DiannAbroad.com

Schindler's latest book, "Claim Denied," is an electrifying international cyber-espionage thriller. It emerged from her experiences as a higher educational consultant at an American University in Kosovo. Publication is late 2020.  Blurb on the back cover:  Feisty and outspoken Margot Evelyn Hart and her fiancé, the charming and wealthy activist Andrey Orlov Stephen, left Minnesota to launch a new life abroad. Their plan: he'd work for the State Department and she'd teach English. Together, they'd make a difference in peoples' lives throughout the world. One country at a time, starting in Prishtina, Kosovo. Within days of their arrival in Prishtina, her world crashed. Margot learned someone had killed Andy,  a single gunshot to the back of his head. She refused to believe it until an ominous stranger banged on her door, and she learned undeniable facts. Andy was dead and she was prey. Margot knew one person in all of Kosovo. Andy's friend, Grey Valentin. She loathed the rotund and awkward know-it-all. But he was her only hope of untangling this traumatic murder. Why would anyone want to kill her beloved Andy? How had she become the hunted? Can she decode the clues in time? Will she survive? --- For more information about her virtual interactive book launching and publication information for "Claim Denied," email her at [email protected]. Music is "Journey" by Rafael Javadov. Click here for his Facebook page. DiannAbroad.com  Thank you for listening. Please be sure to leave a comment and a rating.  Thank you again.

Barbara Rein debuted her first book series in fourth grade, The Adventures of Cassandra McGillicuddy in Outer Space, complete with stick figures drawings. Admonished by her teacher for doing book reports on her own books (and didn't she have chutzpah), she put writing aside for years while stories piled up in her head. One day she opened her laptop and out they poured. She's now an award-winning and Amazon-best-selling author. She lives with her husband and dachshund, traveling with a well-packed suitcase between New York and Florida. Barbara writes strange, fantastical, and downright weird short stories. Darkly brilliant tales that teeter on the edge of reality. Reimagined nightmares concocted from a childhood diet of macabre fairy tales and endless episodes of Twilight Zone. She also writes chuckle-inducing personal essays inspired by the quirks and oddities that bounce her way. Click HERE to purchase "Tales from the EERie Canal." Barbara Rein Facebook Page Barbara Rein Amazon Author Page [email protected] Edward St. John Gorey (February 22, 1925 – April 15, 2000) was an American writer and artist noted for his illustrated books. His characteristic pen-and-ink drawings often depict vaguely unsettling narrative scenes in Victorian and Edwardian settings. DiannAbroad.com    [email protected]  Music by Rafael Javadov "The Amelia Island Sun" and Alexei De Bronhe's "To Take Courage." Thank you for listening.  

Readers love stories that take place in small towns. Everyone has something to hide. The characters are steeped in juicy stuff such as, pure and simple small politics, personal rivalries, hidden agendas, and petty vendettas that often have little to do the broader matters at hand - none the less, engaging drama. Setting is more intimate in a small town. The characters are in a close-knit community. When characters are "close knit" it can be dreadful for the protagonist. Remember old man Potter from the Building and Loan in "It's a Wonderful Life"? The story wouldn't be a story without protagonist Potter.  When well done, we get involved and experience more emotion in the circle of personalities in a small-town story. Diann lists a few classic small-town novels and discusses small-town movies. Her latest novel is  "Claim Denied". DiannAbroad.com [email protected] Intro and out go music is "The Amelia Island Sun" composed and performed by Rafael Javadov. Musical Interludes: "Golden Memories" by Vadim Derepa  

In July 2017, I stayed in The Petite House (Airbnb) in Agde, France, a tiny village of 22,450 pop. a mile north of Cap de Agde, the seaside resort on the Mediterranean Sea. Giving this is the first week of the French Open, I thought it fitting I indulge myself and reminisce  about this lovely village. I mentioned VPNBaron - great way to watch the French Open Tennis Tournament live and free. Take a few minutes to view the Agde, France Photo Gallery.  I also mentioned the video I made while I was there: Agde, France [email protected]  DiannAbroad.com  Intro and outgo music is "The Amelia Island Sun" by Rafael Javadov.  Interlude music is "Golden Memories" by Vadim Derepa. Thank you for listening!  Please leave a comment and review. Also please share with your family and friends. 

DiannAbroad, solo nomad, travel blogger, and travel photographer, captures her experiences working for the American University of Kosovo and facing a series of eye surgeries in Prishtina, the capital city of Kosovo. After a very long 6 months, she escapes to Chiang Mai, Thailand, the Land of Smiles.   There, she finds the zen-like serenity preys on her mind and allows her to see how she has repressed fear of blindness. Diann goes on to illustrate how she managed to face her fears and change her mind.  

Diann interviews Marilyn R. Atlas – Film Producer/Personal Manager, a charismatic and down -to-earth professional with great tips for character development; and creating bold, complex and memorable characters.  She is a delight!    Marilyn R. Atlas is a talent and literary manager, author, and award-winning producer. Among her credits as a film producer are "Real Women Have Curves" for HBO, which won the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival; "A Certain Desire," starring Sam Waterston; and "Echoes," which won the Gold Award at the Texas International Film Festival. In addition to producing a variety of programming for the cable/pay TV market, Marilyn's also produced live theater. She co-produced the West Coast premiere of the musical "God Bless You Mr. Rosewater" by Ashman and Menken (the writers of "Enchanted" and "Tangled"). And, her list of credit goes on! Purchase her book  "Dating Your Character…a Sexy Guide to Screenwriting for im and TV": http://www.stairwaypress.com/bookstore/dating-your-character/   for the hard copy - http://ccwc.papertrell.com/id005100004/    for the e-book   Click here for book flyer and more information:   https://twitter.com/DatingCharacter [email protected] *** Darryl Bollinger is the award-winning author of six novels, all medical thrillers, and is currently working on number seven.  His last novel, The Cure, is set in Western North Carolina. In 2018, The Cure won a gold medal from the Florida Authors and Publishers Association in their President's Book Awards national contest. Kirkus Reviews had this to say about the book: "The author continues his streak of engrossing medical tales with this winner." [email protected]     www.darrylbollinger.com   "The Cure" TAGLINE:   If you already have the cure, all you need is the disease. When the FDA denies approval for a new flu vaccine, Dr. Eric Carter desperately searches for a way to save the drug and the company. Little does he know, others are crafting a man-made virus. When the virus appears, Carter must race to find a solution before it's too late. Buy your copy here: https://cutt.ly/Xr0gL5P  *** Dr.J. Retired Sex Therapist Turned Erotica Writer:  What happens when thirteen erotica authors become tempted with aphrodisiac chocolates? They create bite-sized erotic treats guaranteed to satisfy even the most discerning tastes. From mythic lovers to well-dressed hunks, and breaking down barriers, to taming a beast, each story is delightfully infused with sexy shenanigans. Chemical [se]X 2 delivers the desserts.    [email protected]      http://drjauthor.com     "Chemical [se]X 2"  Buy it here: https://www.amazon.com/Chemical-just-more-Oleander-Plume-ebook/dp/B07RJJ5RGT/ *** Thank you for listening!  [email protected] - www.DiannAbroad.com  Music for this Episode: Rafael Javadov "The Amelia Island Sun." "Sunrise" Music by Ilya Marfin from Fugue "Family Table" Music by Ilya Truhanov from Fugue Tiny People    Music by Alexei De Bronhe from Fugue  

Margaret Best was born in New York, graduated high school in Germany and college in Louisiana. She married in Illinois and moved back to Louisiana. She has two sons born in Texas and one daughter born in New Mexico and eight grandchildren. She lived in several countries, states and territories-Germany, Puerto Rico, Egypt, Japan, Guam, and the United States. She retired from teaching elementary school in Florida before pursuing a career as an author. Her books are available on Amazon and at Barns $ Noble. She has two memoirs: Unsung Hero, and  Dandelion Child: A Soldier's Daughter. Her newest book, a memoir/travel titled Guam: Where America's Day Begins will be available in 2021. Best's books, "Unsung Hero" (memoir/biography) and "Dandelion Child: A Soldier's Daughter," (coming of age memoir), are available on Amazon  http://bit.ly/PeggyBestBooks https://margaretbestauthor.com Facebook pages: http://bit.ly/MBestFacebook [email protected] DiannAbroad  

(This interview was initially released January 3, 2020. ) Diann Schindler interviews awarding winning author Paula Stone Tucker: "Surviving: A Kent State Memoir." Paula Stone Tucker was 30 yards in front of the National Guard when they fired into a crowd of students on May 4, 1970 at Kent State University. A retired clinical psychologist, she worked with families, couples,  and  survivors of trauma and abuse. In her younger days she was a reporter for the Akron Beacon Journal and the Daily Kent Stater. She grew up in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio and graduated from Kent State University.  She splits her time between northeast Ohio and The Villages, Florida where she writes, plays the flute and is learning to play golf. Her first book, Surviving: A Kent State Memoir, is the Silver Medal Award winner in the Memoir and Biography category of the Florida Writers Association 2019 Literary Award Competition. She is available for interviews.  You can contact her at paulastonetucker.com, at [email protected], or on Facebook at Paula Tucker, Author. She looks forward to hearing from you and reading your reviews. Buy Paula's book on Amazon. Would you like to be interviewed on "In the Know!"?  Simply complete this Interview Request Form and forward to [email protected]  Thank you for listening!  Please be sure to leave a comment.  Share share with your family and friends.  Finally, rate this episode.   Midroll music is "Tiny People" by Alexei De Bronhe.   Questions or comments?  [email protected]  DiannAbroad.com

Sharon Snir was born in Sydney, Australia and began her professional life as an early childhood educator. Following the birth of her five children Sharon changed professions and trained as a clinical psychotherapist and worked in that field for over thirty years, while also giving regular local and international workshops and seminars. In her blog, Speed of Light Heartedness, she shares her philosophical and spiritual musings. Over the past ten years she has written three books is now in the process of writing her fourth. To purchase her books, "The Little Book of Everyday Miracles," "The 12 Levels of Being,"  and "Looking for Lionel- How I Lost and Found my Mother Through Dementia",  click HERE. Sharon Snir   The Speed of Light Heartedness [email protected]    DiannAbroad.com  Music: "The Amelia Island Sun" by Rafael Javadov and "Tiny People" by Alexei De Bronhe

A long time Florida resident, J.R. Minard taught in high school and junior college classrooms and raised two teenage daughters.  She later became part of the faculty at the Job Corps in Charles Town, WV and taught the GED program to young men and women who wished to complete their high school diploma and become employed. She spends time as a volunteer with the Patriotic Service Dogs who are trained at Lowell Correctional Institute in Ocala, Florida. A mid-life crisis and a reunion with a dear friend, Rose Imregi, ignited a buried determination to write. A chance encounter with a well- known FSU football quarterback who told of his life changing experiences the following evening, clinched the deal. Together they wrote a passionate novel that sets the story straight about the Florida School for Boys, a boys' reform school now known as the Dozier School for Boys. Links to where people can buy your book(s): coachincottagec.com https://www.amazon.com/Coach-Cottage-inspired-events-Victor/dp/0578555719/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Coach+in+Cottage+C&qid=1571154163&s=books&sr=8-1 [email protected] [email protected].  Jane's website : coachincottagec.com Click here to read the review of "Coach in Cottage C." [email protected]  DiannAbroad.com  Musical intro and outgo is "The Amelia Island Sun" composed and performed by Rafael Javadov.  Also, interludes are from "Dusk" by Dream Machine

This is rerelease of this episode, first released in December, 2018. Listen to Part 2 of Diann's true story of leaving a marriage, her view of romantic relationships, a surprise meeting with the Camera Man, and what happens next. In case you missed it, listen to Part I, here. DiannAbroad.com  [email protected]  Thank you for listening and please subscribe. Copyright 2020 DiannAbroad All rights reserved.  

Listen to Diann's true story of leaving a marriage, her view of romantic relationships, and a surprise meeting: the camera man. (First published in December, 2018.) Copyright  DiannAbroad All rights reserved. https://www.diannabroad.com/podcast [email protected]

Geralyn Vilar Geralyn Vilar was born and raised in Belleville, New Jersey. After high school she married and while raising her children, she  received her A.A.S. degree in nursing from   Essex County College. Later in life she received her BSN. Part of her education for   her BSN included a class in poetry. Her professor was taken by her work and she began to seriously consider writing. Her first novel, "One Spring Day" was published on March 12, 2020 and is available through Amazon. She is a mother and grandmother and lives with her husband David in The Villages, Florida. Amazon Author Page     Buy One Spring Day Write to Geralyn: [email protected]  Find out more about Scrivener HERE.  Find free lance services at Fivver. To interview on "In the Know!" click here for more information.  NOTE:  the fee is reduced to $50 during this time we are all looking to stay safe and healthy with the threat of COVID-19.  Please email me at [email protected] for questions. Music Sources:  "The Amelia Island Sun" by Rafael Javadov and "Smile" by Gabriel. Thank you for listening.  Diann DiannAbroad.com

This is a good time for me to take a moment to list those things for which I am grateful, especially during this lengthy isolation. What are you grateful for?  Please comment. Thank you for listening. [email protected]    DiannAbroad.com  Music is "Miracle Music" written by Dream Machine Intro and Outgo Music:  "The Amelia Island Sun" Rafael Javadov

    Vic DiGenti is the award-winning author of six novels and six works of nonfiction. His novels include the Windrusher trilogy of adventure-fantasies featuring a four-legged feline protagonist, and the Quint Mitchell Mystery series published under the pen name Parker Francis. Vic's also penned biographies for two WWII veterans, and written four other personal biographies plus a family history. As a working author and publisher (Windrusher Hall Press), Vic has taught writing classes at the University of North Florida and workshops at numerous writer's conferences throughout Florida and other states. He's a longtime FWA member and a former Executive VP of the FWA Board. He lives and works in Ponte Vedra Beach with his wife and two cats (at the moment) named Yogi and Olaf. Some great reviews of DiGenti's work:  "Hurricane Island will blow you away. With a murder, a double kidnapping, rising winds, and a pocketful of alligator teeth, this is a perfect storm of a mystery." –      Michael Wiley, Shamus Award-winning author of Blue Avenue "Parker Francis' new thriller starts with a gust and steadily increases to hurricane speeds. You'll want to lash yourself to a palm tree and hang on for dear life."—Lisa Black, New York Times bestselling author "Hurricane Island: It's twenty-four stormy hours … and one living hell of a good time." – Jefferson Bass, New York Times bestselling author And We Were Amateur Soldiers doesn't have any blurbs, but here are a few of the Amazon reader comments: "Unique and absorbing account of one man's journey in the Rainbow Division of WWII." "Story is loaded with interesting and honest personal experiences. War is truly hell! Olsen's success is more than luck."  You can buy his books on Amazon: Vic DiGenti Amazon Author Page   and Parker Frances Amazon Author Page Windrusher Hall Press To contact Vic about your memoir, use this address: [email protected] Music: "The Amelia Island Sun" by Rafael Javadov and "Smile" by Gabriel   Thank you for listening.  Diann DiannAbroad.com        [email protected]   

Retired physician, Larry Martin, has written 22 books in a variety of genres.  When asked why so many and how, he says he loves to write, and he loves to learn.  He learns best by writing, from books and articles about his medical field of pulmonology (disorders of the respiratory system), to history, music, and more!  Listen as he talks about his books and his current project: Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and its effect on memory loss.             Larry Martin's bio: I began writing early in my medical career in Cleveland, starting with a book pulmonary medicine (my specialty) for the lay public. Over the years I wrote several more medical-themed books, some for physicians and others for the general public. I did not tackle fiction until 2011, with a novel about Civil War Savannah. Since then I have self-published several other fictional works, plus two books for children.   My short novel "The Boy Who Dreamed Mount Everest" won 2nd place in the 2016 Florida Writers Association's Royal Palm Awards, category of Middle Grade Fiction. "Liberty Street: A Novel of Late Civil War Savannah" won 2nd place in the 2018 RPLA competition, for Published Historical Fiction. Several short stories have also won RPLA awards. After retiring and moving to the Villages in 2015, I joined several writing clubs, and in 2017 served as president of the Writers League of The Villages (WLOV). I am currently WLOV's Newsletter Editor and Website Manager. In addition, I regularly attend a writing critique group, called Wannabes, here in The Villages. Writing is my main retirement interest, but I have another: music. I never played an instrument and decided retirement is the time to learn, starting with the ukulele. One thing led to another, and I ended up with a 140-page "Uke Syllabus: An Introduction to Basic Music Theory for the Ukulele," which I posted free online. My wife and I are blessed with three wonderful daughters, two in Chicago, one in New York, and 5 grandchildren. Larry's Website: Lakeside Press   Facebook Page.  [email protected] Musical Interlude: Tiny People Intro and Outro music is "The Amelia Island Sun," written for me by Rafael Javadov.      

Dr. Kuehnl Walters is a retired clinical/forensic psychologist from Ohio. She was in private practice for over forty years and taught psychology classes at Sinclair Community College and The University of Dayton. She is married and enjoys being a wife, mother, Yaya, great grandmother, and friend to many!  She and her husband have been on seven mission trips and are actively involved at Fairway Christian Church in The Villages, Florida. Dr. Kuehnl Walters is now "re-fired" as a published author of Christian inspirational books as well as her soon to be launched crime/romance novel. She serves as Academic Dean of Casa Hope, International where she teaches men who have mostly served time for alcohol and drug offenses. Dr. Kuehnl Walters also enjoys playing golf, games, bookstores, beaches, sunsets, gospel and 60's music. She belongs to Florida Writers Association, Word Weavers International, Inc. and serves as treasurer of the Writers League of The Villages. [email protected]          [email protected]   You can buy "The Christmas Slaying" on  Amazon.  Here's a description: "One Week . Six Murders. Based on a True Story. On her 21st birthday, Angel Morgan steps out of Juvenile Detention after serving five years for grand theft auto. The next 12 hours will change the course of her life forever. About to purchase a bus ticket to live on the beaches of Florida, she meets Sam and April. Never having any real friends before, these two offer Angel comfort such as she's never known before. Little does she suspect their dark path will turn her world upside down."   Thank you for listening.  [email protected] DiannAbroad.com   You, too, can be interviewed on "In the Know!"  More information.   Music: Tiny People    Music by Alexei De Bronhe Dusk: Music by Music by Dream Machine

   MARLA J. MCDANIEL Marla grew up between homes in south Florida and an Indiana family farm. She enjoys small towns, country roads, islands, antiques, and history. Amelia Island contains, within its small area, the qualities she and her family enjoy as their residence. Appreciation of historical sites led her to efforts in the preservation of old railroads, bridges and depots. She took part in the nationwide transportation agenda to recycle abandoned railroads into community trails. She likes to write non-fiction and values the camaraderie and support of writers in a vibrant artistic community. Marla is the coordinator of Amelia Island Writers (AIW), a chapter of FL Writers Association. AIW hosts monthly programs of interest for established and aspiring writers of all genres. Contact her at: [email protected]     Please contact: [email protected] DiannAbroad.com Music attributes:  "Miracle"  Music by Dream Machine; "Tiny People" Music by Alexei De Bronhe; Smile" Music by Gabriel  

This episode focuses on "Just A Girl: A coming-of-age novel about innocence, isolation, love, heartbreak, and discernment." Diann reads the back cover of her novel and Chapter Two.  Chapter Two begins with Paula, 5 years old, and her sister, Rachel, 8 years old, putting groceries away.  Paula sneaks off with a bag of oranges. "Just A Girl" was ranked 6th best coming-of-age fiction by Amazon in 2017.   Go HERE to purchase "Just A Girl."                       [email protected]   DiannAbroad.com Music source: SMILE Music by Gabriel MIRACLE Music by Dream Machine INTRO AND OUTGO Music by Rafael Javadov

Do you know the benefits to walking?  Simple walking is incredibly beneficial to your health. Diann talks about how walking alleviated  her muscle stiffness and pain when she walked over 98 miles in 8 days in Paris.  Now, she's walking, biking, and exercising on Amelia Island, Florida. She references her podcast Bike Episode.  You can hear it here:   "The Answer to Aging: Check Your Tires" If you would like to be interviewed on "In the Know!", please complete this Interview Request Form and send to [email protected]. DiannAbroad.com Music for this episode:  MIRACLE - Dream Machine  GOLDEN MEMORIES  Vadim Derepa SMILE  Gabriel  RUSSIAN SOAP OPERA Ilya Truhanov  Thank you for listening.  Click HERE to subscribe.

Think young!!  Diann Schindler tells us about her "new" bike, lovely Amelia Island, and her challenging bike ride in the historic district of Amelia Island, Florida.  Lessons learned! She also explains her new podcasting equipment upgrades. Would like to "appear" on "In the Know!"?  Please complete this Interview Request Form and send to [email protected].   DiannAbroad.com Thank you for listening. "Tiny People"    Music by Alexei De Bronhe from Fugue

Diann shares her thriller novel writing experiences with her first draft, describing the thriller genre and three narrative devices: the MacGuffin, Red Herring and Cuttlefish. She refers to the Story Grid. Use the Story Grid and write a successful novel. Interested in an interview on "In the Know!"?  Please complete the Interview Request Form and send to Diann@DiannAbroadcom   DiannAbroad.com   

I began podcasting in January, 2016, one year after I left the country to travel the world and before I actually named my podcasting the "In the KNOW!" show.  This episode is a rerelease of my very first podcast in which I describe that travel bug, that gadfly-like travel bug that latched on to me until I could no longer ignore it.  I just had to give in to it, embrace it, even nourish it and commence my truly amazing, worldwide adventure. I've been traveling for 4 years, over 45 countries in 5 continents, to date.  It's often a good idea to take a moment to look ...or listen...back when it all began. Note, I mention that I will be recording another podcast with Constance Vlahoulis.  Unfortunately, that didn't happen because I didn't have the proper equipment to conduct an interview podcast. Bummer!  Thank you for listening.  Please write to me at [email protected] and tell me what you would like to hear on "In the KNOW!"  Also, please comment, subscribe and share with your friends. Merry Christmas to you and yours! Copyright 2019 DiannAbroad All Rights Reserved

Everyday, so many people ask me about "In the Know!" as well as podcasting in general.  This episode answers those general questions.  Enjoy!  Thank you so much for your support of 2019...which is quickly coming to an end.  I'm excited about gearing up for 2020 with an expanded mission that includes interviews with writers and authors of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, blogs, and more.  "In the Know!" will help interviewees reach a different audience and enhance their marketing strategies.  If you would like to be interviewed, please complete this Interview Request Form and send to [email protected]. Also, if you would like to support "In the Know!" you can do so by subscribing, forwarding to your family and friends, commenting and leaving a rating.  Thank you so much!

You will enjoy Peggy Best's interview.  See details below. Thank you so much for your support during 2019...which is quickly coming to an end.  I'm excited about gearing up for 2020 with an expanded mission that includes interviews with writers and authors of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, blogs, and more.  "In the Know!" will help interviewees reach a different audience and enhance their marketing strategies.  If you would like to be interviewed, please complete this Interview Request Form and send to [email protected]. Also, if you would like to support "In the Know!" you can do so by subscribing, forwarding to your family and friends, commenting and leaving a rating.  Thank you so much! *** Peggy Best aka Margaret Allyn Greene Best    Born in New York, graduated high school in Germany and college in Louisiana, Peggy married in Illinois and moved back to Louisiana. She has two sons born in Texas and one daughter born in New Mexico, and eight grandchildren. She has lived in several countries, states, and territories—Germany, Puerto Rico, Egypt, Japan, Guam, and the United States. Peggy retired from teaching elementary school in Florida before pursuing a different career as an author. She considers her first book, Unsung Hero, as a tribute to her father containing his memories of being a prisoner of war during WWII, his time in Korea, and in Vietnam.  Her second published work is Dandelion Child: A Soldier's Daughter. It tells her story of life as a child of the military during the Cold War. She is particularly excited about her last chapter which explores ways her reader can help children of today's military. Peggy believes everybody has a story to tell. Her company Peggy Best Memoirs LLC has been created to help others write or record their stories. www.peggybestmemoirs.com   www.peggybest.com   [email protected]   352-753-4030   352-333-3022 You can purchase Peggy's books at the links below. https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Unsung+Hero+by+Margaret+Allyn+Greene+Best&ref=nb_sb_noss https://www.amazon.com/Dandelion-Child-Soldiers-Margaret-Best/dp/1939472326/ Thank you, again, for listening.    

Robert K. Goddard grew up in Georgia and after 4 years in the U.S. Air Force, he earned degrees from Georgia State University and Georgia College.  In 2012, he retired from a career in the long-term care industry, and is now pursuing a writing career.  In addition to 3 novel manuscripts, Bob has also written 2 stage plays and poetry.   He also founded the Black Rose Theatre Company in Brandon, MIssissippi in 1991. Bob is a fascinating prolific writer, in all genres.  He reads 2 of his allegorical poems, written in iambic pentameter in this delightful interview. Find out more about him at his website: RKGoddard The midpoint music for this episode is "Tiny People"  If you like this episode, you can support "In the Know!" by leaving a comment, rating the show, and forwarding it to your friends.   Thank you for listening! [email protected]        https://www.rkgoddard.com/

Diann Schindler is back in Amelia Island, Florida.  Why?  She reveals she contracted a yet-to-be diagnosed illness while in Thailand and needed to return to begin to heal. Listen as Diann talks about this strange illness, her road to recovery, her exciting new goals, and a special partnership with Dr. J., Ph.D., retired sex therapist turned erotica writer.  Together they have created The Di'Na Zing Experience. To learn more about Dr. J., go here: Dr. J., Author.  Her profile photo is included below. Included in every episode is a new vocabulary word.  Today: syzygy! This podcast uses a sound from freesound: Hip Hop drums » Hip Hop Kit beats by bigjoedrummer, https://freesound.org/people/bigjoedrummer/sounds/209456/, attribution https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/ [email protected]        DiannAbroad.com Enjoy!  And thank you for tuning in!

Singing Bowls have been used for centuries for healing and meditation purposes.  It's said that the sounds generated by these bowls can  promote healing, reduce stress, create calm, and address dis-ease.   What an interesting concept.  I'm new     to this, obviously, but totally captured!   I bought 2 singing bowls during my         visit to Myanmar and have been       mesmerized with their sounds. This podcast focuses on what I have learned about my bowls, how I use them to ground myself as I begin my meditation, as well as the ringing connection to musical keys and to our chakras. Of course, this is only my beginning of a deeper understanding of this ancient philosophy and practice.   I reference a blog in this podcast.  The title: The Good News, The Bad News, A Chiang Mai Day. You can access the blog here. Please write to me @ [email protected].  Also, please comment and review this podcast.  Tell me about your experiences with singing bowls.  I look forward to hearing from you. Also, please forward!  Thank you so much for listening. Diann Schindler, DiannAbroad.com   

Among all the crushing images I saw at the Auschwitz-Birdenau Memorial and Museum, it was the hair that had the most immediate and lasting effect. Actual hair sheared  from the heads of every man, woman, and child prisoner; disinfected; wound in balls; and placed in net bags.  I saw a roomful of this hair, discolored by the years, but unmistakably human brown, gray and white hair. My recording, I admit, was very emotional, but important for me to record.   Compassion for those who lost their lives built up in side of me...but, I couldn't do anything .... can't do anything to relieve their suffering. However, I can release this podcast so that, hopefully, you will hear and feel my emotions. Read the rest of the story HERE. For more photos, click HERE.   Please comment at Diann@DiannAbroad.  Thank you for listening. Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved.

This is a meditation is designed for the Charter for Compassion course entitled "Cultivating Compassion through Travel." However, it is useful for anyone interested in receiving and sending compassion from and to loved ones, acquaintances, and people all over the world. This Course and this meditation will assist you in becoming more compassionate. Why choose to act compassionately? Compassion reduces suffering, opens your heart, improves your health, and you become a part of the global compassion movement. The release date for "Cultivating Compassion through Travel" is yet to be determined.  It's a 4-week, non-credit, online course.  Fees $25. For more information, please email me at [email protected] Enjoy and repeat this meditation often. Thank you for listening. Please comment.  Please share.    

This guided meditation is designed for my "Cultivating Compassion through Travel" course offered online by the Charter for Compassion. WHEN THE COURSE IS OFFERED IS YET TO BE DETERMINED. For course participants, be sure to compete the previous activity in the Course so that you will be prepared for the meditation. Please spend some time thinking about your intentions for travel with regard to cultivating compassion.  During this meditation, I will ask you to reflect on your overall intention regarding travel, travel and compassion, that is cultivating compassion through travel.  I will also ask you what your short term intention is for today's guided meditation that supports you in fulfilling your over all intention. Relax and enjoy. IF YOU ARE NOT REGISTERED FOR THIS COURSE, this exercise can be useful to you if you choose to cultivate compassion through travel. Please contact me via email at [email protected] for more information about this Course. Please share.Thank you so much for listening.    

Mindfulness is the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we're doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what's going on around us. This meditation is designed to experience, embrace, and practice mindfulness.  When we are mindful, our mind is fully attending to what is happening, to what we are doing.   The benefits of mindfulness include:  Higher brain functioning A sense of well-being. Increased immune function Lowered blood pressure Lowered heart rate Increased awareness Increased clarity in thinking and perception Lowered anxiety levels Experience of being calm and internally still Experience of feeling connected Self Compassion As with meditation, mindfulness is in our control.  Take a few minutes to in take part in this meditation which is actually an activity for my Chart for Compassion course, entitled "Cultivating Compassion through Travel."    Thank you for listening.  Please comment and share.  

This podcast is one in a series of podcasts designed especially for my "Cultivating Compassion through Travel" online course, which will be offered by the Charter for Compassion.   This is a simple guided meditation for Giving and Receiving Compassion.  It is designed to allow for relaxation and absorption of self-compassion and compassion for others, such as friends, person(s) you know who may be struggling, and/or to more than one person. Compassion is so important in our lives.  It enables the infinite capacity of human kindness and creativity to relieve suffering, connect us to ourselves and to each other, create justice, heal our planet, and protect the natural world with all its inhabitants. Here is a brief introduction to "Cultivating Compassion through Travel":  "Travel isn't always pretty. It isn't always comfortable. Sometimes it hurts, it even breaks your heart. But that's okay. The journey changes you; it should change you. It leaves marks on your memory, on your consciousness, on your heart, and on your body. You take something with you. Hopefully, you leave something good behind."   — Anthony Bourdain Travel, it is well known, is transformative in a variety of ways.  However, for significant, meaningful transformation, the traveler must have an open heart.  That is, a heart receptive to tolerance, empathy, appreciation and, ultimately, compassion for others and the cultures in which they live.  Without this, travel is mere sight seeing...a missed opportunity to embrace our complicated, challenging world and to learn to love one another. This course will take participants through processes that bring awareness to any personal biases regarding practices and ideals of other countries, work through those thoughts to break through fears and/or negative views and see, more clearly, that people and cultures from all over the world, often are very much the same.  They want to be happy, healthy and safe.  All people want to take good care of their children so they also can lead happy lives, now and in the future. "Cultivating Compassion through Travel" will be offered in the fall of 2019.  Fee:  $25 For information, please email me at [email protected] Thank you so much for listening to this podcast.  Please comment and share. 

This episode provides a glimpse of my challenges having faced 4 eye surgeries, which reduced my perfect vision of 20/20 to 80 percent loss of vision. And, my vision deterioration was not over and stress and worry consumed me to the point that my blood pressure skyrocketed into the danger zone.  I HAD to address my brain-screaming fear.  I HAD to get control back before my blood pressure problems seeped over and created havoc in other parts of my body. Of course, the thought of THAT only caused my blood pressure sore even higher.  Meditation was an answer, but I had never, every been successful.  I found an answer. Here is the link I used to acquire meditation success. There are others, of course. I suggest to listen to a previous episode entitled, "The Anatomy of My Eye" to get an understanding of the series of surgeries that I had face.  So many people I know are having eye problems.  Are you?  Tell me about it at [email protected]  Also please comment, review, subscribe and share. Thank you so much for listening. Copyright 2019 DiannAbroad All Rights Reserved

The Mediterranean coastline is known as the Italian Riviera, includes Cinque Terre and Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure, as well as Sanremo.  And then, there is Genoa, birthplace of Christopher Columbus, and gateway to the sea. Twenty-five miles north of Genoa, deep into the Liguria Alps is a small village of a mere 2000 residents: Rossiglione.   I arrived in Rossiglione by bus from Genoa and settled in my Airbnb B&B, housed in a narrow 5 story building, originally built in 1700 in the commercial/industrial area of the village and ultimately abandoned and left vacant for years. In this episode, I talk about this tiny village, my Airbnb hosts, and a typical lost in translation confusion. Enjoy! (For more pictures of this lovely community, click here.) Please comment, review, share and subscribe!  Thank you for listening!  And, happy new year! [email protected] Copyright 2018 DiannAbroad All Rights Reserved.  

This episode is an excerpt from my book, "The Essential Guide to a Life of Travel: the ABC's of International Travel."  While this reading is about my experiences in this lovely Italian city, it is also about compassion.  I meet Bernard at a Puccini concert.  His small, but kind gesture of compassion began our friendship.  We remain friends today.  "Compassion is the greatest form of love humans have to offer." Rachael Joy Scott You may want to read a related blog, capturing our excursion to Barga, Italy. Go HERE for a copy of "The Essential Guide to a Life of Travel: the ABC's of International Travel." Thank you so much for listening. Please comment, review, share and subscribe. [email protected] Facebook: Diann Schindler/Author Twitter: DiannSchindler Copyright 2018 DiannAbroad All Rights Reserved

Listen to this informative podcast about Quito, Ecuador.  I share some confessions and discuss Quito facts, as well as fun personal stories, especially about meeting Lea (above) and her family.   For a pictoral view, access DiannAbroad.com Contact me at [email protected]. Copyright 2019 DiannAbroad All Rights Reserved.

This episode is a RErelease of my second episode that I recorded in Quito, Ecuador in Februay of 2017. But, still useful to travelers everywhere.  I discuss nine items I use every single day when I travel.  I can't do without them. People are always asking me all sorts of questions about my adventures, including what do I use for this, what do I use for that, etc.  My podcast show is an effort to respond to all of those questions. Take a listen to hear some answers.  And, please comment and tell me what YOU would like to hear. And, I would appreciate it if you would subscribe, comments, share and/or forward.   Want more information?  Access my website DiannAbroad and click here to sign up for my newsletter, chockful of information about my adventures, links to my podcasts and blog, as well as excerpt from my soon-to-be-released novel, "Just a Girl." I look forward to hearing from you.  Contact me at [email protected]. Thanks so much!  Diann Copyright 2019 DiannAbroad All Rights Reserved

Diann reads from her women's-literature-genre book, "Just A Girl: A coming-of-age novel about innocence, isolation, love, heartbreak, and discernment.  Chapter 22 marks the middle of the story about Paula.  This chapter tells of the story of Paula's father when he is suddenly taken ill. "Just A Girl" was ranked 6th best coming-of-age fiction by Amazon in 2017. You can purchase on Amazon, both in paperback and ebook formats.  "Just A Girl" is also available at these fine independent bookstores: Story and Song, Amelia Island, FL Phoenix and Dragon, Altanta, GA Diann also discusses her photo ebook that has some of her favorite photos taken as she traveled in 40 countries and 5 continents.  To get your copy, simply email her at [email protected] and type "FREE Ebook" in the subject line. Please subscribe to her "In the KNOW!" podcast show.  Also, please comment and send to your friends.  I hope you enjoyed this episode.  Thank you so much for listening. Copyright 2018 DiannAbroad All Rights Reserved

Do you know about myopia? Do you know it can affect more than just the quality of your eye sight? Do you know it can affect the health of the retina? Do you know a frequent error that occurs during cataract surgery? Do you know that frequent error can serverely affect the health of the retina? I learned from my eye doctor in Prishtina, Kosovo, what my eye doctor in Amelia Island, Florida, failed to tell me about myopia, cataract surgery, and potential retina complications....complications that can cause loss of sight. This informative and dramatic podcast details my experiences from Madrid to Kosovo and...how many times I came close to losing my sight.  And, note, unfortunately, the story continues after this podcast, first released in early 2018. Watch for a follow up podcast on this channel. [email protected] DiannAbroad.com   Copyright 2018 DiannAbroad  All Right Reserved.