HODGEPOD with Rob Fredette

The Superman Wars: Inside the Creator's Fight for Justice- EPISODE 164

Rob Fredette interviews William Bernhardt about his new narrative nonfiction book" The Superman Wars", tracing Jerry Siegel’s creation of Superman, the decades-long legal battles over creator rights, and the injustices faced by comic creators.
They also cover Bernhardt’s writing process, editing tips, the WriterCon community, avoiding publishing scams, and practical advice for aspiring authors.
www.williambernhardt.com
www.writercon.com
 
 

Talking Rick Pitino, UCONN Mens and Women's Basketball and Boston Sports Nostalgia with Author Clayton Trutor- EPISODE 163

Host Rob Fredette welcomes author Clayton Trutor for a conversation about Boston and New England sports, focusing on college basketball—Rick Pitino’s revival at St. John’s, Dan Hurley and UConn’s continued dominance in Mens and Women's basq, and the lasting legacies of Jim Calhoun and Gino Auriemma.
The episode covers tournament highlights, the effects of NIL and the transfer portal, memorable moments from the Garden and NCAA tournaments, and the cultural history of Boston sports including the Beanpot and Patriots Day.
Clayton also discusses his books Boston Ball and Loserville, shares stories from sports history, and points listeners to his Substack and social channels for more writing and projects.
https://claytontrutor.wordpress.com
X- @claytontrutor
https://claytontrutor.substack.com
RECORDED APRIL 17TH, 2026
 
 

From Drill to Director: Param Gill’s Indie Filmmaking Journey- EPSIODE 162

Rob Fredette sits down with Param Gill, a former dentist turned independent filmmaker, to discuss his career and films — from a PTSD-focused community drama to Hotel Hollywood and the political satire Bad President.
They cover the realities of indie filmmaking: financing, casting, distribution, the role of background actors, and how Bad President used real campaign moments to find an audience, plus a look ahead to a sequel and Gill’s advice for aspiring creators.
INSTAGRAM: @paramgill
 

Make the Impossible Possible: Rehan Jalali's Fitness Playbook- EPISODE-161

Rob Fredette talks with Hollywood fitness expert Rehan Jalali about his 30-year career training actors, writing bestselling diet guides, and speaking on health and performance. They cover Jalali’s N.E.S.S. framework (Nutrition, Exercise, Sleep, Supplements), his 80/20 approach to eating, and the importance of customized plans and recovery.
The episode shares practical tips—faster results with fasted morning cardio, hydration guidelines, sleep priorities, supplement basics, and mindset strategies—emphasizing consistency and that it’s never too late to start improving your health.
Rehan Jalali Official Instagram @sixpackdietplan
www.rehanjalali.com
On  X formerly Twitter @sixpackdietplan
Author of the book "Six Pack Diet Plan" can be purchased on Amazon
 
 
 
 
 
 

Skincare Secrets with Chris Gibson: From Acne to Ageless Skin- EPSIODE 160

Rob Fredette hosts Chris Gibson—licensed esthetician, best-selling author, and YouTube influencer—to discuss practical skincare strategies. They cover diet, supplements (collagen), sun protection, topical ingredients (vitamin C, retinoids/bakuchiol), acne causes and treatments, facial exercises, hydration, sleep, and stress management. Chris also shares product and routine recommendations, his skincare line, and simple at-home remedies like chilled tea bags or cucumbers for under-eye puffiness.
This episode blends science-backed tips and everyday advice for healthier skin at any age from an expert with 37 years of experience.
Website-wwwchrisgibsonlive.com
Chris is the author of the book "Acne Free in 3 Days" which has sold over 1 million copies.
Chris can be found on You Tube "Chris Gibson Live" where he has over 500,000 subscribers.

Hunting America's Lost Fortune: A Veteran's Guide to Real Treasure w/ Author Dr. C.V. Pratt -EPISODE 159

Rob Fredette interviews Dr. C.V. Pratt, a retired U.S. Air Force colonel turned treasure hunter and author, about blending deep historical research with modern tools to locate America’s lost and hidden treasures. They discuss notable cases—from a stranded Spanish galleon and Revolutionary War gold to Civil War caches and outlaw hoards—Pratt’s 90% Rule methodology for planning and research, and practical tips on legal and technical considerations for recovery.
C.V. can be found @ 
YOUTUBE @cxvprattbooks
INSTAGRAM: c.v. pratt
WEBSITE:    cvpratt.com

We're All Mad Here: Laughing Through the Mess with Author Marie Kuipers- EPISODE 158

On this episode Rob Fredette welcomes Marie Kuipers, author of the memoir "We're All Mad Here," to discuss women's issues, grief, family dysfunction, and finding healing through humor and community.
They cover Marie's personal experiences—from trauma and roller derby to caregiving and mental health—and explore why messy, honest stories deserve celebration alongside triumphs. The book is available through common retailers including Amazon and Barnes and Noble.
Great and deep interview.
Marie can be found @:
www.mariekuipers.com
INSTAGRAM: @mkuipers
 

Overflowing Bucket: Managing Stress, Addiction & Device Intimacy-EPISODE 157

Licensed counselor Patrick Eilers joins Rob Fredette to discuss anxiety, depression, addiction (including sexual addiction, gambling and substance use), and how modern devices amplify risk. He explains the “overflowing bucket” metaphor for stress and why small triggers can cause big reactions.The episode covers how addictions form, partner betrayal trauma, and the role of intimacy and device boundaries in recovery. Patrick describes assessment tools and treatment approaches used in therapy and specialty programs.Practical coping strategies are shared—grounding exercises, box breathing, cold packs, journaling, accountability groups, and digital blockers—plus guidance for finding a specialist and building healthier habits.Patrick also explains Bloomworks Concepts and Coaching, his work supporting therapist-owners and improving practice culture, and points listeners to resources like Psychology Today and 12-step groups for next steps.

Matchup at Adventure Land Golf: A Wild Rhyme-Filled Journey with Author Gene Walden-EPISODE 156

Author Gene Walden’s Matchup at "Adventure Land Golf " is a rhyming, illustrated children’s book that follows two boys through an 18-hole tournament filled with wild animals, daring rescues, surprise encounters with golfing legends, and even a hole on the moon.
The story blends adventure and humor with lessons about friendship, overcoming obstacles, and inclusion, all inspired by the author’s love of golf and long career as a writer and illustrator.
Rob and Gene also talked about the incredible Indiana University National Championship in football.
You can find more from Gene @ www.GolfCrossFitness.com 
For updates and fun go to : www.MatchUpAtAdventureLandGolf.com
Gene is a former newspaper reporter, columnist, and editor, as well as a contributor to many national publications.
 
 

From Burnout to Balance: Neurodivergent OT Nikki Smit on Everyday Well‑Being- EPISODE 155

Rob Fredette hosts Nikki Smit, a neurodivergent occupational therapist, in a practical conversation about how stress shows up in our bodies and what everyday strategies help us feel safer and more balanced.
They explain the nervous system, the "stress cup" metaphor, and simple, science‑backed tools—movement, deep pressure, breath (long exhale), music, time outdoors, "nothing time," and supportive relationships—to prevent overwhelm and build resilience.
Listeners will leave with clear, usable steps to recognize overwhelm, add small rituals into their day, set boundaries with technology, and proactively protect their well‑being.
RECORDED JANUARY 29, 2026
INSTAGRAM: @nikkismittherapy
Nikki can be found on Linkedin