The Bearly Audible Podcast

On the season 2 Premiere Hosts Justin Romine and Bearz welcome Oud Virtuoso Rahim Alhaj. In this compelling episode of The Barely Audible Podcast, hosts Justin Romine and Bearz sit down with world-renowned oud virtuoso Rahim AlHaj for an unforgettable conversation about music, resilience, and cultural identity. Rahim shares his extraordinary journey from Iraq to the United States, recounting how his deep passion for the oud—one of the world’s oldest stringed instruments—became both his refuge and his voice. As an artist who has faced the challenges of creating in a conservative environment, Rahim speaks candidly about the power of music as a tool for resistance and storytelling. He reflects on the struggles of immigration, the responsibility of artists to engage with their audiences, and the profound impact of cultural exchange in shaping his work. The discussion also explores the intersection of music with other art forms, the beauty of collaboration, and Rahim’s upcoming projects that continue to push creative boundaries. Thought-provoking, inspiring, and rich with history, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who believes in the transformative power of art. Rahim's Bio Rahim AlHaj, a virtuoso oud musician and composer from Baghdad, Iraq, began playing at age nine and trained under the legendary Munir Bashir. Forced into exile in 1991 due to his activism against Saddam Hussein’s regime, he eventually resettled in the U.S. in 2000 as a political refugee. Now based in Albuquerque, NM, he was awarded the prestigious NEA National Heritage Fellowship in 2015. Recognized as one of the world’s finest oud players, Rahim has performed globally, earned multiple accolades, and collaborated with diverse artists, including Bill Frisell and Amjad Ali Khan. His compositions blend traditional Iraqi maqams with contemporary influences, reflecting themes of exile and resilience.

In this captivating episode of The Barely Audible Podcast, hosts Justin Romine and Bearz take listeners behind the scenes of their live podcasting adventures. They open up about the exhilarating highs and unexpected technical hurdles of engaging with an audience in real time. The duo shares firsthand stories from their Comic-Con experiences, offering a glimpse into the energy of pop culture’s biggest events. As the conversation unfolds, Justin reflects on his journey in the film industry, revealing insights into his creative process and the projects that have shaped his career. The hosts also take a nostalgic trip back to the podcast’s origins, shedding light on how Barely Audible came to be and the evolution of their dynamic. Beyond the world of entertainment, they explore a variety of fascinating topics, from the invaluable role of their producer to the artistry of photography, unforgettable food experiences, and thought-provoking current events. Rounding out the discussion, things take a mysterious turn as they dive into eerie paranormal encounters—including a deep dive into the legend of Sasquatch. With humor, authenticity, and an infectious passion for storytelling, this episode is a must-listen for fans of film, pop culture, and the unexplained. Tune in for an engaging and unpredictable ride!

Episode 12: Alan Abrams – Writing, Architecture, and the Power of Positivity In this episode of The Bearly Audible Podcast, hosts Justin and Bearz sit down with the multi-talented Alan Abrams—writer, publisher, architect, and seasoned traveler—for a fascinating conversation that blends creativity, philosophy, and personal journey. Alan shares the unexpected detour that led him from a planned move to Alaska to an immersive six-year stay in Santa Fe, New Mexico. He opens up about his passion for architecture, his approach to writing, and the inspiration behind his latest venture, Sligo Creek Publishing—a business he humorously calls a "mistake." Together, the trio explores deep and timely topics, from the importance of the First Amendment to the ways we can counteract war, fear and negativity by fostering love and joy. It's a thought-provoking discussion with a true renaissance man—filled with wisdom and wit. Come for the conversation, stay for the KFC. As with tasty chicken and mashed potatoes, you’ll be left wanting more! Alan Abrams b. Aug. 22, 1949, Washington, DC Without dwelling on the sordid details, his first 12 years of adulthood was characterized by rebelliousness, foolishness, and bad luck. Like Jonah, he fled from the damage he caused and the responsibilities he should have assumed. This took him–on a cobbled together motorcycle–to New Mexico, where he acquired a solid background in construction methods and materials. It was there in the Espanola Valley that he designed and built–almost completely by himself–his first house. With new self confidence and a sense of mastery of the man-made world, he returned to his home town. He made amends with his family, and re-adopted the daughter he had abandoned. He also made a promising marriage, launched a contracting business, and bought a tiny bungalow on a quiet tree lined lane. For the next twenty five years he worked in construction–initially, with his hands, but as his experience and knowledge continued to accumulate–with others’ hands. He designed his own projects, falling in love with the study and practice of architecture. He did his best to not let his lack of credentials and formal training hold him back. Through all this time he read widely. He wrote an occasional book review for his professional association, or news feature for the local monthly. Once in a while a poem sprang from his keyboard. But his marriage was failing. In 2004 he began designing a new house for a local couple. The husband was not invested in the project, but he worked closely with the wife for a year. By the time the house was complete, two marriages collapsed. It was then he began to write more deliberately. It was a way of sorting out the chaos of his young adulthood. He worked in all genres, from poetry, to screenplays, to prose that danced between fiction and memoir. Some of these pieces were published in journals and anthologies, whetting his appetite for greater success. During the summer of 2024, he launched the Sligo Creek Publishing Co., which has already produced four collections of poetry and short stories, plus another that is in the final stages of editing.

Episode Summary: Yoga, Mushrooms, and Mysteries with Tara Butler In this captivating episode of The Bearly Audible Podcast, Justin and Bear welcome the multi-talented Tara Butler—yoga instructor, tarot and oracle card reader, fiber artist, and urban homesteader. Together, they explore the transformative power of yoga, diving into the practices of Kundalini and Hatha yoga and how Tara seamlessly integrates these disciplines into daily life. The conversation takes intriguing turns as they delve into Tara’s adventures in mushroom foraging, her experiences with hallucinogenics, and the rewarding challenges of managing an urban homestead. Tara also shares heartfelt insights from her time as a birth doula, offering a glimpse into the sacred art of supporting new life. Of course, no episode of The Bearly Audible Podcast would be complete without a journey into the unknown, as the trio shares their thoughts on aliens, UFOs, and the mysteries of the cosmos. Tune in for a thought-provoking, inspiring, and thoroughly entertaining episode that’s sure to spark curiosity and leave you wanting more! Tara Butler Bio Tara Butler is a dedicated yoga teacher specializing in Kundalini and Hatha yoga, helping students achieve physical and spiritual well-being. She is also an experienced tarot and oracle card reader, offering profound insights through her work with the mystical arts. Beyond her yoga and spiritual practices, Tara is a talented fiber artist who creates quilts and crochet pieces imbued with love and intention. As a proud mother of four, Tara embraces the joys of parenting while managing an urban homestead, complete with a flourishing garden and a flock of chickens. Her past experience as a birth doula deepened her appreciation for the sacredness of life, and she has facilitated meaningful community events such as women's circles and full moon gatherings to foster connection and mutual support. Passionate about holistic living, Tara strives to integrate mind, body, and spirit in all areas of her life. She also enjoys discussing diverse topics such as mushroom foraging and the mysteries of extraterrestrial life.

Episode 10: Unlocking the Secrets of Travel Hacking with Melanie Brown For our milestone 10th episode, Justin and Bearz are joined by Midwest-based travel hacker Melanie Brown, who’s redefining the way we see the world—without breaking the bank. In this lively and insightful conversation, the trio dives into the highs and lows of travel, from favorite destinations to quirky cultural experiences, including some surprising (and stomach-turning!) culinary practices in Asia. Melanie shares her expertise on how to earn and maximize airline miles, turning them into virtually free flights and luxurious hotel stays. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or someone dreaming of their first big adventure, Melanie’s tips and tricks will show you how to work the system to make your travel dreams a reality. Tune in to discover how you can unlock a world of possibilities through savvy travel hacking! Meet Mel: The Ultimate Travel Hacker and Luxury Jet-Setter Mel is a passionate globetrotter who has mastered the art of traveling in style without breaking the bank. By skillfully earning and maximizing points and miles, she’s unlocked the secrets to experiencing the world’s most extraordinary destinations—often for little to no cost. In 2024 alone, Mel traveled an astonishing 80,392 miles—enough to circle the globe 3.2 times. And she didn’t just travel; she traveled in style. From indulging in bucket-list flight experiences like ANA’s “The Suite” and Etihad’s “The Residence” to unwinding at opulent destinations like the Al Maha Desert Resort in Dubai, the Park Hyatt in Kyoto, and Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort in Abu Dhabi, Mel has redefined luxury travel on a budget. But she’s not stopping there. 2025 promises even more incredible adventures, with plans to explore Oman, Turkey, Thailand, China, Hong Kong, Korea, Taiwan, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and beyond! Through her popular YouTube channel, Mel’s Miles, she demystifies the world of points, miles, and luxury travel. With practical how-to guides, insider tips, and reviews, Mel empowers aspiring travelers to turn their wanderlust dreams into reality. Ready to elevate your travel game? Follow Mel and start living life—one mile at a time! Check out Mel's Miles on YouTube!

In this week's compelling episode, hosts Justin and Bearz engage in an illuminating conversation with acclaimed author and journalist T.J. English, renowned for his penetrating explorations of organized crime and the underworld. With a distinguished career spanning over four decades, English has authored several New York Times bestsellers, including "Havana Nocturne," "Paddy Whacked," and "The Savage City." The discussion delves into English's unique journey into crime writing, tracing back to his early days as a New York City taxi driver—a role he metaphorically likens to his writing process: navigating the streets, engaging with strangers, uncovering hidden narratives, and reporting on the clandestine facets of society. Listeners will gain insights into English's firsthand experiences covering high-profile criminal cases, such as the trial of notorious mobster Whitey Bulger, as detailed in his book "Where the Bodies Were Buried." The conversation also explores his latest work, "The Last Kilo," which examines the rise and fall of Willy Falcon and the cocaine empire that captivated America. This episode offers a rare glimpse into the mind of a writer who has masterfully chronicled the intricate and often perilous world of organized crime. English's storytelling prowess and deep understanding of the underworld promise to captivate both new listeners and long-time followers of the podcast. Tune in for an episode rich with riveting anecdotes and profound reflections on the intersections of crime, culture, and journalism. T.J.'s Bio T. J. English is a noted journalist and author of the New York Times bestsellers Havana Nocturne, Paddy Whacked, The Savage City, and Where the Bodies Were Buried. He also authored The Westies, a national bestseller; Born to Kill, which was nominated for an Edgar Award; and The Corporation. His journalism has appeared in Esquire, Vanity Fair, Playboy, and New York magazine, among other publications. He lives in New York City.

Discover the Magic of Music and Storytelling with Larry Kirwan In this week’s episode, Justin and Bearz invite you on an unforgettable journey with Irish rock legend and cultural pioneer, Larry Kirwan. Best known as the frontman of the groundbreaking band Black 47, Larry opens up about his life, his music, and the incredible stories that have shaped his artistic vision. Explore the rich tapestry of topics, from the roots of his poetry and political activism to the daring decision to leave Ireland for New York City on a work visa—a move that changed everything. Larry also shares an intimate look at the creative process behind his acclaimed Broadway musical Paradise Square, which garnered 10 Tony Award nominations and claimed a win. And that’s not all—get an exclusive preview of Rebel Girl, his upcoming musical that’s already making waves in the theater world. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering Larry Kirwan for the first time, this episode is packed with inspiration, passion, and insights into a life dedicated to breaking boundaries. Perfect for lovers of music, storytelling, and those who enjoy hearing from icons who’ve reshaped their fields. Tune in! Larry Kirwan was born in Wexford and lives in New York City. He is a columnist with the Irish Echo and in 2022 received the Irish American Writers and Artists Eugene O’Neill Lifetime Achievement Award. Larry was leader of Black 47 for 25 years during which the political rock band played 2,500 gigs, released 16 albums and appeared on Leno, Letterman, O’Brien, Fallon and every major US TV show. He has written three novels including Liverpool Fantasy and Rockin' The Bronx, a memoir, Green Suede Shoes, and A History of Irish Music. His latest novel Rockaway Blue was recently published by Cornell U. Press. He has written or collaborated on 19 plays and musicals including Paradise Square which began at the cell in Manhattan as Hard Times (produced by Nancy Manocherian, directed by Kira Simring). He collaborated with Thomas Keneally (Schindler’s List) on the musical Transport for which he wrote music and lyrics. It was produced at The Irish Repertory Theatre (directed by Tony Walton). His political thriller Rebel in the Soul was also produced at “The Rep.” He is currently adapting The Informer for stage. A political activist, he is an Irish Echo columnist and celebrity host of Celtic Crush on SiriusXM Satellite Radio. He was president of Irish American Writers & Artists for five years. In 2022 he received a Tony nomination for co-writing the book for Broadway musical Paradise Square. The play follows the frequenters of a Five Points neighborhood saloon in Manhattan during the American Civil War, including the Black woman who owns it, a conflicted newly arrived Irish immigrant, a freedom seeker, and a once-great songwriter. Larry has written and collaborated on 19 plays and musicals.

What started as a planned mini-episode quickly turned into a full-length adventure as Justin and Bearz dive into the hilarity and chaos of drunken behavior—or at least what they can remember! In this unpredictable and wildly entertaining conversation, the duo goes far beyond the topic at hand, exploring all kinds of funny, unexpected, and downright fascinating stories. With their signature banter and chemistry, Justin and Bearz prove once again that when they’re together, anything can happen—and it usually does. Tune in for laughs, surprises, and plenty of moments you won’t want to miss!

This week Justin and Bearz are visited by Justin's very talented nephew Joshua Brown. Violinist Joshua Brown has been praised by audiences and critics worldwide for his “richness of sound, elegance of reading...commitment of every moment at the service of the work...” (La Libre). Joshua gained international attention after winning the 2nd Prize and both Audience Awards at the 2024 Queen Elisabeth Competition in Brussels. Other international competition successes include the 1st Prize at the inaugural 2023 Global Music Education International Violin Competition in Beijing, China, as well as the 1st Prize and Audience Award at the 2019 International Violin Competition of Leopold Mozart in Augsburg, Germany. Joshua was first recognized for his debut performance with the Cleveland Orchestra, of which ClevelandClassical wrote, “Brilliantly played and expertly paced, Brown’s performance checked into every emotional corner... Brown was spellbinding throughout his entire time on stage.” Joshua has gone on to perform regularly with orchestras around the world, including the Munich Radio Orchestra, MDR Sinfonieorchester, Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, Chicago Civic Orchestra, East Coast Chamber Orchestra, Belgian National Orchestra, and Orchestre Philharmonique Royal de Liege, among others, continually garnering praise from critics. After his performance of Brahms’ Violin Concerto in Beijing with members of the Philadelphia Orchestra, The Strad wrote, “Brown spun out silky, weightless phrases that seemed suspended in time;” in Belgium, Le Soir described him as “a real musician, of great sensitivity...with a real sense of nuance;” and the Indianapolis Star described his sound after a performance of Mozart’s 5th Violin Concerto as “addictive and shimmering, with emotions like dynamic colors that shifted beneath a clear, glassy surface.” A passionate recitalist and chamber musician, Joshua has also appeared regularly in series such as Chicago's Dame Myra Hess Memorial Concert Series, Festival Musiq3 in Brussels, the Tchaikovsky Festival in Moscow, the ProMusica series in Mexico, the Matinée Musicale series in Cincinnati, the Jupiter Chamber Players series in New York City, and the North Shore Chamber Music Festival in Chicago. Joshua received the Kronberg Academy’s 2023 Manfred Grommek Prize, and has been named a Pirastro Artist, Yamaha Young Performing Artist, and Luminarts Fellow, among other awards. Upcoming highlights of the 2024/25 season include a recital tour of Taiwan and South Korea, as well as a series of performances of Beethoven’s Violin Concerto with the Kyoto Symphony Orchestra in Japan. Joshua is currently pursuing his Artist Diploma at the New England Conservatory of Music studying under Donald Weilerstein after also earning his Bachelor and Master of Music there. Before his time at NEC, Joshua studied with Almita and Roland Vamos at the Music Institute of Chicago. Joshua is grateful to be playing an outstanding Nicolo Amati violin from Cremona, circa 1635-1640, on extended loan through the generosity of the Mary B. Galvin Foundation and the efforts of the Stradivari Society, a division of Bein & Fushi, Inc. The Mary B. Galvin Foundation, Inc. and the Stradivari Society support the very highest level of string playing by loaning precious antique Italian instruments to artists of exceptional talent and ability.

This week on the podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Tony Ferguson, a renowned paranormal investigator from the United Kingdom. Tony's fascination with the supernatural began in childhood, sparked by a profound personal experience that shaped his lifelong interest in the paranormal. Over the years, he has developed a unique approach to investigating phenomena that others in the field often overlook. His methods combine open-minded curiosity with a grounded perspective, aiming to uncover deeper truths about the unknown. Tony is also committed to sharing his journey through his ongoing documentation of investigations. His goal is to inspire others to explore the mysteries of the paranormal for themselves, encouraging a personal search for meaning and understanding. In this episode, we delve into a wide range of topics, including the nature of the afterlife, the influence of positive and negative energies, and the mysteries of disembodied voices. Tony also shares insights on what the paranormal might reveal about human nature and our own inner worlds. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, this conversation offers thought-provoking perspectives on the unknown.

This week, Justin and Bear are joined by Susan Grace, an astrologer, intuitive, and life coach dedicated to guiding others toward the end of suffering. With a BA in Psychology and over 18 years of experience as a corporate officer, Susan has spent decades offering grassroots counseling. In her 12 years of private practice, she has read thousands of astrology charts for people from all walks of life around the world. Susan is passionate about using astrology to help people uncover the Truth of who they truly are and navigate their personal journey toward self-realization. During the episode, we dive into topics such as psychology, philosophy, and how Susan integrates these fields with astrology to help unlock the deeper truths of the Self.

This week, Justin and Bear are thrilled to sit down with the incredibly talented and versatile actor Bill Oberst Jr., a true legend in the world of independent film. Known for his powerful performances and unique approach to character work, Bill shares his journey in the industry, discussing the moment he first caught the acting bug and how it set him on a path to becoming one of the most respected names in genre film. We dive into his deep interest in psychology, exploring how understanding the human mind has helped him craft some of his most memorable roles. Bill also opens up about his passion for portraying historical characters, which has become a defining aspect of his career. His portrayal of Abraham Lincoln, in particular, has drawn comparisons to Daniel Day-Lewis’ acclaimed performance, as he brings a raw intensity and authenticity to the role that captivates audiences. In this episode, we also reflect on the influence of the late, great Ray Bradbury, discussing how the iconic author has impacted Bill’s work and continues to inspire him. Join us for a fascinating conversation that spans film, history, literature, and the inner workings of the creative mind.

In this week's episode, hosts Justin R. Romine and Bear sit down with the incredibly versatile Stuart Wahlin, who has made his mark as a filmmaker, ghostwriter, screenwriter, musician, and actor. Stuart shares his experiences across these diverse fields, offering listeners an insider's perspective on the many facets of storytelling and performance. They dive into Stuart's journey in filmmaking, the subtle art of ghostwriting, and his creative process as a musician, while also touching on his experiences as an actor both on and off camera. Stuart’s reflections on balancing these roles, adapting to different creative demands, and finding inspiration in every medium make this an episode packed with insights for anyone interested in the world of entertainment. Don’t miss out on this inspiring conversation with a true creative powerhouse! The Bearly Audible Podcast is a Gadfly Cinema LLC Production. Executive Produced by Lydia Jan Harris , Bear, and Justin R. Romine

In this episode, Justin and Bear cover an eclectic mix of topics that offer both personal insight and a broader look at societal issues. Justin reflects on his experiences in film school, sharing stories from his journey as an independent filmmaker—highlighting the challenges, triumphs, and creative freedom that come with pursuing a career outside the Hollywood system. His passion for storytelling and filmmaking is front and center as he talks about the highs and lows of making movies on his own terms. The conversation then takes a deeper turn as the hosts discuss the pressing issue of homelessness in Albuquerque. They explore the complexities behind the rising number of unhoused individuals, shedding light on the human side of the crisis while offering thoughtful commentary on potential solutions and the role of the community in addressing these challenges. As the episode unfolds, Bear shares his dream of buying a cruise ship, but with an unconventional twist. Rather than a luxury liner, Bear envisions turning it into an innovative alternative housing project in the Pacific Northwest. He dives into the logistics and possibilities of transforming the ship into a floating community that could serve as a creative solution to the housing shortages in the region, blending the ideas of sustainability and communal living in an exciting and ambitious way. This episode is packed with thought-provoking discussions, personal stories, and creative ideas that range from the world of indie filmmaking to solving real-world problems in imaginative ways.