HODGEPOD with Rob Fredette

Unveiling the Thrills: A Journey Through Crime and Literature with Brian Brady- EPISODE 97

In this captivating episode of HODGEPOD, host Rob Fredette welcomes Brian Brady, a seasoned law enforcement professional and author, to discuss his intriguing career and literary journey. Episode 97 dives into Brian's 40-year career in law enforcement, which spanned across California and New Mexico, culminating as the police chief of Novato and later as a security executive for NBCUniversal.
Brian shares vivid memories from his early days as a young officer, recounting his first call and the impactful cases he encountered, including his involvement in famous investigations like the Zodiac and Zebra cases. He also reflects on his transition to writing, discussing his thriller series, including his latest book, "Hiding in Plain Sight," which draws inspiration from real-life crime events.
The conversation explores the challenges and triumphs of writing, the importance of character development, and the intricacies of crafting a compelling narrative. Brian also gives insight into his experiences in the private sector and his time working in Hollywood. Tune in for an engaging discussion that blends the worlds of crime, literature, and the vibrant cityscape of San Francisco.
HODGEPOD can be heard on Apple, Spotify, IHEART, Audacy, TuneIn and the Podbean App.
Please give a listen, follow, rate and share. Thank you for listening.
Recorded Tuesday November 12, 2024

A Melodic Journey with Emily E. Finke -EPISODE 96

Join host Rob Fredette on this captivating episode of the HODGEPOD as he delves into the world of music with the multi-talented singer and musician, Emily E. Finke. With an impressive resume and a voice that enchants, Emily shares her journey in the music industry, from her early beginnings at the age of six to her evolution into a creative entrepreneur.
Emily discusses her unique approach to music, coining the term "nouveau classic" to describe her genre-defying style. She reveals her passion for singing and songwriting, along with the diverse influences that have shaped her musical path. Listeners will gain insight into her creative process, as Emily shares her experiences of writing, arranging, and performing original songs, including her latest release, "Daddy Was a Soldier."
Discover Emily's inspirations, from the timeless melodies of Bing Crosby and Dean Martin to the rich history of music that informs her artistry. With anecdotes about performing at iconic venues like Carnegie Hall and the Sydney Opera House, Emily offers a glimpse into the life of a dedicated musician striving to make her mark.
Tune in to explore the art of music with Emily E. Finke, as she discusses her projects, collaborations, and the joys of creating music that resonates with audiences worldwide. Whether you're a music enthusiast or simply curious about the creative process, this episode promises a delightful and insightful experience.
RECORDED NOVEMBER 7, 2024
HODGEPOD can be heard on APPLE, SPOTIFY, IHEART, TUNEIN, and the PODBEAN APP.
Please give a listen , follow and share. Email: hodgepodallin@yahoo.com

The Beatles' Transformative Years: Insights from Gene Popa- EPISODE 95

Join host Rob Fredette on HODGEPOD as he welcomes back Gene Popa, the author of a new book exploring a fascinating period in The Beatles' history. In this episode, Rob and Gene dive into the transformative years of The Beatles, from the end of their touring in 1966 to the iconic Summer of Love.
The name of Gene's book is " The Color of Your Dreams" and can be purchased at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, through his publisher baremannermedia.com as both hard cover and paperback.
Gene shares insights from his book, shedding light on lesser-known events and personal transformations of the band members during this pivotal time. Discover how The Beatles evolved musically and personally, moving away from their mop-top image and embracing new artistic expressions. Learn about the significant roles of Brian Epstein and George Martin, often considered the "fifth Beatles," in shaping the band's trajectory.
Explore the challenges and triumphs The Beatles faced, including the infamous 1966 tour and their time in Memphis. Gene also reveals intriguing stories about potential collaborations and missed opportunities, such as the possibility of recording at Stax Records. Delve into the evolution of The Beatles' sound, the internal dynamics within the band, and the cultural impact they left on music history.
Whether you're a die-hard Beatles fan or new to their legacy, this episode offers a captivating look at a transformative era that redefined The Beatles and left an indelible mark on the world. Don't miss this engaging conversation and uncover the untold stories behind one of the greatest bands of all time.
Thank you for listening. :)
HODGEPOD can be heard on APPLE,SPOTIFY, AUDACY, TUNEIN AND PODBEAN APP. 
Please give a listen, follow and share. Email hodgepodallin@yaoo.com.
RECORDED NOVEMBER 7 2024

From the Beat to the Book: A Veteran Officer's Journey-EPISODE 94

Join host Rob Fredette on this insightful episode of the HODGEPOD podcast as he welcomes special guest Bill Geiger, a retired police officer with 25 years of experience in law enforcement in Dayton, Ohio. Bill shares his fascinating journey from an unexpected start in the police force to becoming a seasoned officer, exploring various roles including a canine handler and hostage negotiator.
Bill recounts gripping stories from his career, shedding light on the challenges and rewards of police work, and discusses his transition to becoming an author. Discover how his experiences inspired his book, "The Polygraphist," a novel that weaves real-life polygraph cases into a compelling fictional narrative.
Tune in to hear Bill's reflections on the nature of policing, the impact of drug epidemics, and the critical role of community service, as well as his thoughts on the evolving societal issues like road rage and addiction. This episode offers a candid and engaging look at the life of a dedicated law enforcement officer and his continued passion for storytelling.
RECORDED OCTOBER 14, 2024
Please give a listen , follow and share. Email: hodgepodallin@yahoo.com
HODGEPOD can be heard on Apple, Spotify, IHEART, Audacy, TuneIn and the Podbean App.

From Classical Beginnings to Indie Pop: An Interview with William John Titus Bishop EPISODE 93

Join Rob Fredette on this episode of the HODGEPOD as he sits down with renowned London-based musician, William John Titus Bishop. Discover the captivating journey of William from his classical music roots to becoming an indie pop and folk pop recording artist.
In this engaging conversation, William shares his early musical influences, the transition from classical to popular music, and how iconic artists like Bob Dylan and Joni Mitchell have inspired his work. Learn about his creative process, from writing ten songs a day to collaborating with musicians in the studio.
Dive into the story behind his latest album "Americana," and explore how European and American folk music have shaped his sound. William also discusses the challenges and rewards of being an artist in the digital age, with insights into his growing fanbase across Europe and the United States.
Whether you're a music enthusiast or an aspiring artist, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and career of William John Titus Bishop, as he continues to make waves in the music industry.
William's albums:
Deja Vu                                                            2019
Waves on Fire.                                              2020
Oto Recordings (Live).                             2021
Keeping Some Kind of A Record         2023
Universal Love                                           2023
Americana                                                  2024
RECORDED 10/14/24
HODGEPOD can be found at Apple, Spotify, IHEART, Audacy, TuneIn and the Podbean App.
Please give a listen, follow and share. Email hodgepodallin@yahoo.com
Thank you for listening!! Rob Fredette

Inside the Actor's Studio: An Exclusive with Matt Drago-EPISODE 92

Join Rob Fredette on HODGEPOD as he welcomes his first-ever actor guest, Matt Drago. Matt, an accomplished actor with an exciting new film set to release in January of 2025, dives deep into his journey from community theater in Virginia to starring roles in TV and film.
Discover the intricacies of the acting profession, the emotional and physical demands of the craft, and the collaborative spirit that drives successful film productions. Matt shares personal stories and insights from his latest project, "Somewhere in Montana," a film he passionately believes will resonate with audiences across the country.
Tune in to hear Matt's thoughts on the importance of chemistry on set, the power of storytelling, and the value of listening and respect in our society. Whether you're an aspiring actor or a film enthusiast, this episode offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at the world of acting and filmmaking.
HODGEPOD can be heard on Apple, Spotify, IHEART, Audacy, TuneIn Radio and the Podbean App.
Please listen, follow and share. Thank you for listening.
RECORDED September 26, 2024

Rock and Roll Revolution: The 1950s Unplugged with Becky Hendricks EPISODE 91

Join Rob Fredette on the HODGEPOD podcast as he welcomes special guest Becky Hendricks, a writer, researcher, and explorer with a deep passion for 1950s pop culture and the societal impact of rock and roll. Becky discusses her acclaimed Hound Dog series, which transports readers to the tumultuous 1950s, capturing the essence of a coming-of-age story against a backdrop of societal upheaval and musical revolution.
In this episode, Becky delves into the vibrant decade of the 1950s, touching on significant events like the atomic bomb scare, the Korean War, and the burgeoning women's movement. She also explores the controversy surrounding rock and roll music, dubbed "the devil's music" at the time, and how it transformed the youth culture.
Rob and Becky also discuss Elvis Presley's monumental impact on rock and roll, his iconic performances, and the challenges he faced. They explore the stories behind Becky's books, "Hound Dogged" and "Hard Dog's Night," which chronicle the journey of a rock band navigating the challenges and excitement of the 1950s music scene.
Tune in for an enlightening conversation filled with historical insights, musical anecdotes, and a deep dive into the 1950s rock and roll revolution.
HODGEPOD can be heard on Apple, Spotify, IHEART, Audacy, TuneIn Radio and the Podbean App.
Please give a listen, follow and share. Email hodgepodallin@yahoo.com.
Recorded September 9, 2024

Emmy Award winning Producer Shannon Malone-diBenedictis joined HODGEPOD to talk television. EPISODE 90

Welcome  to HODGEPOD, hosted by Rob Fredette ! In this special episode, Rob sits down with Shannon Malone-deBenedictis, a multi-Emmy winning producer, development executive, public speaker, and workshop facilitator. Shannon shares her incredible journey from starting as a midnight editor to working with top networks like Discovery, Netflix, and National Geographic.
Shannon dives into her fascinating career, highlighting her work on iconic projects like"Shark Week",  "Secrets of the Whales" and "Penguin Town." She also shares behind-the-scenes stories from her time producing Shark Week and collaborating with industry giants like James Cameron and Sigourney Weaver.
In addition to her career in television, Shannon talks about her love for baseball, her experiences as a lifelong Washington Nationals fan, and her new venture, Padlin Creative. This episode is packed with inspiring stories, career insights, and a mutual love for America's favorite pastime. Don't miss it!
HODGEPOD can be heard Apple, Spotify, IHEART, Audacy, Tunein and the Podbean App. Please give a listen, follow and share. 
Email: hodgepodallin@yahoo.com
Recorded September 5, 2024
 

Breaking the Silence: Keeper Catran- Whitney's Journey from Helplessness to Healing EPISODE 89

***There may be content on this episode that may be sensitive to some listeners. I wanted to let you know before hitting play. Keeper is sharing this very important story.***
Welcome to HODGEPOD with your host, Rob Fredette. In this powerful and poignant episode, I was honored to have Keeper Catran-Whitney as my special guest. Episode 89 dives deep into a serious and often overlooked topic—emotional health challenges faced by brothers of sexual abuse survivors.
Catran-Whitney, author of the book "Helplessness," shares his extraordinary story, shedding light on the silent struggles brothers endure. He discusses the immense emotional earthquakes that shook his family, the hidden trauma, and the long journey toward healing. Whitney's background in music, including his family's remarkable rise to fame and the unexpected support from a musical icon, adds another layer of depth to his narrative.
This episode not only highlights the importance of acknowledging and addressing the emotional toll on brothers but also emphasizes the power of family, forgiveness, and the courage to speak out. Join us for an inspiring and eye-opening conversation that aims to elevate the voices of the unseen and the unheard.
RECORDED AUGUST 31, 2024
Thank you for listening!!!
HODGEPOD can be heard Apple, Spotify, IHEART, Tunein, Audacy and the Podbean App.
Please listen, follow and share. Email: hodgepodallin@yahoo.com
 

Rob on as a guest on Back Look Cinema The Podcast talking about Enemy of The State (1998) EPISODE 88

Please give a listen as I joined Zo Richardson on his podcast "Back Look Cinema The Podcast to talk about the action film" Enemy of The State) 1998. Please give this podcast a listen. If you love movies this podcast is for you. This was fun!!
Ep. 154: Enemy of the State (featuring Rob Fredette from HODGEPOD with Rob Fredette
Zo and Rob, from the podcast HodgePod with Rob Fredette,  are checking out the sites in Washington, D.C, and . . . wait . . . are they being followed? in one moment it seems that they are leading normal lives and in the other feels like they are being watched by shadowy figures. In the next moment two men: an older gruff looking man and a younger man are running though the streets being chased by military types, cars and helicopters. What’s really going on? Is it just those men being followed are are we all being watched? Sometimes Zo and Rob feel like they're being treated like an enemy . . . an Enemy of the State.Episode Segment Time Stamps Opening Credits . . . . . . 00:17: 21Favorite Parts . . . . . . . . 00:35:06Trivia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .00:59:03Critics' Thoughts . . . . .  01:10:58 Rob Fredette's Links:Twitter (Rob): https://x.com/fredetter25Twitter (HodgePod): https://x.com/hodgepodrobInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/listentohodgepod/email: listentohodgepodallin@yahoo.com 
Please leave a comment, suggestion or question on our social media: Back Look Cinema: The Podcast Links:Website: www.backlookcinema.comEmail: fanmail@backlookcinema.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@backlookcinemaTwitter: https://twitter.com/backlookcinemaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BackLookCinemaInstagram: https://instagram.com/backlookcinemaThreads: https://www.threads.net/@backlookcinema