HODGEPOD with Rob Fredette

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.
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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
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HODGEPOD can be heard Apple, Spotify, IHEART, Tunein, Audacy and the Podbean App.
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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

Friendship, Family and Faith with Shari Flowers Bruns and her inspirational and powerful message of EPISODE 87

Welcome to another captivating episode of the HODGEPOD Podcast! In this episode, host Rob Fredette sits down with Shari Flowers Bruns  who talks about friendship, family and faith during a life altering period in her life. Shari's message is powerful.
Shari talls about her radio days, recounting her experiences in small-market stations and major cities like Memphis and Baton Rouge. She shares intriguing stories and the evolution of radio through the decades with Rob.
The conversation takes a heartfelt turn as Shari opens up about her late husband Hank Bruns and the impact of his passing on her life. She discusses how her faith and resilience helped her navigate through the loss and find new meaning in life. Quite powerful and inspirational.
Shari also reveals the incredible journey of her son, Mason, from high school football to becoming a preferred walk-on at LSU, leading to a historic national championship season.
This episode is filled with laughter, memories, and inspiring life lessons. Shari's story is a testament to the enduring power of friendship, family, and faith.
RECORED AUGUST 24, 2024
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The Rhythm of Connection: Exploring Reggae's Influence on Modern Music-EPISIODE 86

Join Rob Fredette on this engaging episode of the HODGEPOD podcast as he sits down with special guest Joe Zegarelli to dive deep into the world of music. This episode switches gears to explore the rich history and enduring influence of reggae music. Discover how reggae's syncopated melodies and anti-establishment vibes have shaped genres like rock, pop, and hip-hop.
Listen as Joe Zegarelli, a DJ and music producer from Charlotte, NC, shares his insights on reggae's evolution, its pioneers like Bob Marley and King Tubby, and its unexpected connections to modern-day bands and artists. From the birth of dub music to reggae's therapeutic effects, this episode is a melodic journey through time and sound.
Perfect for music lovers and curious minds alike, tune in to uncover the rhythmic threads that connect past and present, leaving an indelible mark on the music we enjoy today.
RECORDED AUGUST 8, 2024
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HODGEPOD can be heard on Apple, Spotify, IHEART, Audacy, TuneIn and The Podbean App
Joe has a website www.ClassyRhythms.com
Social media websites: Instagram: @Fvngi.wav and Soundcloud is Fvngi.
 

Remembering the King: The Day Elvis Presley Died. Episode 85

Join Rob Fredette on this special encore episode of HodgePod as we revisit the chaotic days following Elvis Presley's death on August 16th, 1977. This episode features original news coverage from Memphis, Tennessee, capturing the pandemonium and the immense outpouring of grief from fans and celebrities alike.
Relive the detailed reports from major news outlets including NBC, CBS, and BBC, and hear personal anecdotes from locals who experienced the event firsthand. Discover fascinating statistics about Elvis's monumental impact on music, and enjoy a trip down memory lane with facts about his record-breaking career.
Don't miss this heartfelt tribute to the King of Rock and Roll, whose legacy continues to captivate the world.
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HODGEPOD can found on Apple, Spotify, IHEART, Audacy, TuneIn and the Podbean App
 

Exploring the Legacy of the Memphis Red Sox with Dr. Keith B. Wood-EPISODE 84

In this episode of the HODGEPOD podcast, host Rob Fredette welcomes back Dr. Keith B. Wood, author of "The Memphis Red Sox, A Negro League's History." As the podcast's first-ever guest, Dr. Wood returns to share fascinating insights into the history of the Memphis Red Sox, a prominent Negro League team in Memphis, Tennessee.
Keith discusses his extensive research process, the significance of the Martin brothers' ownership, and the cultural impact of the Memphis Red Sox on the community. You will learn about legendary players, the team's innovative practices, and the broader context of Negro League baseball during a pivotal era in American history.
Join Rob and Keith as they delve into the rich heritage of the Memphis Red Sox and their lasting influence on the world of baseball. 
HODGEPOD can heard on Apple, Spotify, IHEART, Audacy, Tunein and the Podbean app and all podcast platforms.
The Memphis Red Sox, A Negro League's History." can be purchased on Amazon and on the link below.
 Please check it out.
https://www.keithbwoodauthor.com
 
Recorded July 26, 2024
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From Punchlines to Primetime: A Writer’s Journey with Late Night Legends. EPISODE 83

Welcome to HODGEPOD, hosted by Rob Fredette. In this episode, Rob speaks with Ben Alper, a renowned writer who crafted jokes for late-night icons Jay Leno and David Letterman. Hailing from Boston, Ben shares his journey from freelancing jokes to working with comedic legends, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the world of late-night television.
Discover how Ben's career began with joke newsletters and evolved into writing monologues for some of the biggest names in comedy. Ben also discusses the differences between writing for Leno and Letterman, the challenges of crafting timely jokes, and his experiences working remotely in the entertainment industry.
In addition, Ben talks about his book, "Live from the Beginning of Time: Late Night Comedy Monologues Through the Ages," a unique collection of hypothetical monologues spanning historical events. The episode wraps up with a nostalgic chat about the charm of Boston and its vibrant culture.
Don't miss this insightful and entertaining conversation with one of late-night TV's unsung heroes!
RECORDED JULY 9TH, 2024
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HODGEPOD can heard on Apple, Spotify, IHEART, Audacy , TuneIn Radio App and the Podbean App.

TRUE CRIME: Co-Hosts Dan Szematowicz and Andrew Iden of the True Crime podcast DEVIANT on serial killer Israel Keyes-EPISODE 82

Co-Hosts Dan Szematowicz and Andrew Iden of the True Crime podcast DEVIANT joined me on HODGEPOD to talk about their current series of serial killer Israel Keyes. DEVIANT is one of the top podcasts on Apple in the New and Noteworthy category. This podcast is a seven episode series.
THIS IS A MUST LISTEN PODCAST.
DEVIANT is produced by Cold Open Media.
It is known that Israel Keyes murdered four people there may be many as eleven and could be more. Keyes traveled around the United States which made him hard to find.
Rob, Andrew and Dan discussed:
- How Deviant can look back at the wiring of Keyes and keep it from happening again.
- Serial killer Israel Keyes cross country killing spree and he operated from 2001 to 2012.
- How Keyes was different versus how normal people process right and wrong.
- Law Enforcement arresting Keyes in Lufkin, Texas in 2012.
- Interviews with law enforcement and people who grew up with Keyes.
- Other things that Keyes did that will make you say What The?
- Did Keyes leave clues of more murders he may have committed before he committed suicide
   prior to trial in 2012.
- The interrogation tapes that are an integral part of this fascinating podcast.
- Other facets of this story
RECORDED ON JULY 18, 2024
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HODGEPOD can heard on Apple, Spotify, IHEART, Audacy and the PODBEAN app.