Jack McMahon is an insightful author acclaimed for his book "Atrophy and Asymptotes," which intertwines philosophical ideas with personal narratives to explore themes of decline and limits. Drawing from his experiences, especially the loss of his brother and the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, McMahon uses the book as a means to confront his fears and strained family relationships, particularly with his daughter. Motivated by a desire to create a lasting legacy, he delves into topics such as the decay of American values, the rise of authoritarianism, and the importance of emotional responsibility in maintaining open communication and empathy. Through his narrative, McMahon also addresses societal issues like censorship, government overreach, and the strategic design of public spaces, using his platform to advocate for personal accountability and the preservation of fundamental freedoms.

Star Wars: Shadows of the Empire is a video game developed and published by LucasArts. Primarily a third-person shooter, the game also utilizes multiple types of vehicular combat sequences. It was released for the Nintendo 64 on December 3, 1996, and a version for Microsoft Windows was released on September 17, 1997.

💥 In this mind-bending episode of WV Uncommon Place, JR sits down with retired teacher, author, and financial truth-teller Tommy Kilpatrick, who claims your "credit card debt" might not be debt at all.

💳 Tommy shares his wild journey of running up $85,000 in credit card charges based on a radio infomercial deal that collapsed — and how that financial hit led to an eye-opening discovery about bank-issued credit cards, loans, and the law.

📜 He explains the difference between a real invoice and a statement, why banks can’t legally claim you owe them without a promissory note, and how he got multiple credit accounts wiped clean — not through bankruptcy, but by understanding the system.

🔍 You’ll hear:

• Why Modern Money Mechanics (yes, the Federal Reserve’s own publication) says your “loan” might be an illusion

• The legal difference between alleged debt and verified debt

• How language is law, and how using the word “alleged” changes the game

• The real reason banks send you those low-limit credit cards at 18

🧠 This episode will challenge everything you think you know about credit cards, banking, and financial responsibility. Is it conspiracy? Is it truth? We’re not here to tell you what to think — but we are here to help you start asking better questions.

📌 Connect with Tommy Kilpatrick
📧 Email + Facebook links in the show notes
📘 Get his book Forgive and Forget: How to Make Your Credit Card Debt Disappear — FREE with a 15-minute consult

🔗 SHOW NOTES INCLUDE:

• Reference documents + legal definitions

• Info on LegalShield for attorney access

• Modern Money Mechanics (Federal Reserve PDF)

• Letter templates and next steps for challenging alleged debt

🎯 Mission statement from JR: Evolution in life comes from a challenge — and this episode challenges us to rethink the systems we’ve blindly trusted.

📣 Don’t forget to:
👉 Follow the podcast
👉 Rate and review if this blew your mind
👉 Share with someone buried under credit card “debt”

🔊 Episode Summary:

On this powerful episode of WV UncommonPlace, J.R. is joined by licensed psychologist Dr. Stephanie Maser for an in-depth conversation about digital overstimulation, emotional boundaries, and reclaiming presence in a tech-driven world.

From the nostalgic simplicity of growing up in the pre-internet era to the current age of algorithms, scrolling, and digital addiction, this episode gets real about what it means to stay mentally grounded. J.R. reflects on turning 40 and how long it took to develop healthy boundaries—sparking a raw and honest discussion about why boundaries are often learned late, and how we can start building them now.

Dr. Maser brings years of experience working with anxiety, relationships, identity, and burnout, offering both a clinical and deeply human perspective. She dives into:

• 🔐 How to recognize the signs that you need boundaries

• 🧠 The psychology of dopamine, habits, and screen addiction

• 💔 How digital behavior disrupts intimacy and relationships

• 💬 The dangers of confusing attention with connection

• 🧘‍♀️ Strategies for reclaiming mental clarity and emotional control

• 🐾 The importance of sensory grounding, pets, and daily joy

And in a heartfelt turn, J.R. flips the mic back to Dr. Maser in a “2020-style” interview inspired by Barbara Walters, exploring how she practices self-care, maintains her joy, and structures her life with the same boundaries she encourages in others.

"We are now motivated by an algorithm." – Dr. Maser
"Digital behavior is hijacking our dopamine—and most people don’t even know it."
"Presence is the antidote to overstimulation."
"Sometimes we confuse a dopamine hit with emotional intimacy."
"It took me until my 30s to learn boundaries—and I’m still learning them." – J.R.

• Why digital fog and emotional fatigue hit hardest at night

• How technology impacts romantic and platonic relationships

• The difference between overstimulation and overwhelm

• How clinicians protect themselves from emotional exhaustion

• Practical grounding exercises for daily digital detoxing

Whether you’re navigating burnout, a phone addiction, or just trying to find a sense of self in a hyper-connected world, this episode offers clear guidance, human connection, and hope.

Boundaries aren’t about shutting people out. They’re about letting the right people in—and making space for yourself first.

🌐 Website: https://www.drstephaniemaser.com
📝 Services available via telehealth in 42 states
📍Specialties: Relationships, Anxiety, Identity, Burnout, Athletes, Equine Therapy

🧭 Key Quotes:💬 What You'll Learn:💡 Final Takeaway:🔗 Connect with Dr. Stephanie Maser:

In this episode of WV Uncommonplace, Jr welcomes the distinguished Lady Dhyana Ziegler, DCJ, Ph.D. — President & CEO of Z/Creators, LLC, Professor Emerita at Florida A&M University, award-winning multimedia creator, and one of the most accomplished voices in higher education and technology.

With more than 35 years of experience as a professor, administrator, producer, writer, and digital innovator, Dr. Ziegler shares her remarkable journey across academia, media, and global leadership. She has authored four books, published over 60 scholarly works, and produced more than 100 multimedia projects. Her contributions span education, technology, creativity, and cultural impact.

• Dr. Ziegler’s early career and path into higher education

• How she became a pioneering figure in technology and digital media

• The evolution of academic leadership and digital transformation

• Her work as a multimedia writer, producer, and songwriter

• What drives her creativity after decades of accomplishments

• Insights from her global conference presentations and professional service

• The mission behind Z/Creators, LLC

• Advice for creators, educators, and leaders seeking longevity in their careers

• Her reflections and message to the WV Uncommonplace audience

Lady Dhyana Ziegler, DCJ, Ph.D., is a scholar, creator, and visionary leader whose work spans education, media, and digital culture. She serves on numerous boards, continues to mentor rising professionals, and remains dedicated to expanding creative spaces for future generations.

Alan L. Katz, more widely recognized as Al Katz, played an instrumental role in transforming the comic book series "Tales from the Crypt" into a successful television show that seamlessly blended horror and dark humor. Despite arriving in Los Angeles in 1985 without traditional credentials, Katz drew upon his background in comedy and drama from Vassar College to infuse the series with a unique perspective, particularly in crafting the memorable Crypt Keeper character. His deep personal connection to comic books and horror allowed Katz to navigate the adaptation process with creativity and authenticity, ensuring the show's success and leaving a lasting impact on the horror genre with projects like the 1995 movie "Demon Knight." Beyond television, Katz has embraced podcasting as a way to continue his storytelling journey, demonstrating a commitment to overcoming traditional industry barriers and directly engaging with audiences.

(00:06:34) Unconventional Journey: Tales from the Crypt

(00:10:42) Crypt Keeper's Creation and Development in Show

(00:11:41) "Creating the Unique Crypt Keeper Persona"

(00:22:35) "Appreciating Practical Effects in Demon Knight Movie"

(00:24:34) DreamWorks Deal Alters Film Production Plans

(00:33:24) Influential Casting Decisions in Bordello of Blood

(00:39:38) Unique Lighting Challenges in Vancouver Productions

(00:48:50) Navigating Challenges in Script Development for Film and TV

(00:50:14) Podcasts Revolutionize Creative Industry Power Dynamics

(00:53:30) Intense Relationships Among Genetically Related Individuals

Barna Donovan, a professor of communication and media studies at St. Peter's University, offers a compelling perspective on the evolving landscape of cinema, firmly rejecting the notion that the art form is dead. With a rich background in film studies from the University of Miami, Donovan delves into how interconnected cinematic universes, such as Marvel, have reshaped storytelling and audience engagement, reflecting a significant shift rather than a decline. As a staunch advocate for independent cinemas and original content, he emphasizes the role of neighborhood theaters in celebrating film as an art form and creating vibrant community events that draw audiences in. Through his teaching, Donovan equips the next generation of filmmakers and media professionals with the tools to navigate this dynamic industry, encouraging them to embrace innovation while preserving the essence of cinematic storytelling.

00:06:16) The Rise of Cinematic Universes and Theaters

(00:08:31) Rise of Streaming Platforms among Young Audiences

(00:12:00) Influence of Streaming on Filmmaking Autonomy

(00:21:47) Interconnected Universe Concept Shapes Audience Engagement Trends

(00:23:45) Interconnected Superhero Film Overload

(00:26:37) Marvel's Gimmicks: A Threat to Storytelling

(00:31:44) Creative Downturn in Film Industry

(00:51:54) Socially Engaging Movie Theaters for Generation Z

(00:57:46) Community Events and Original Content Advocacy

Anky Cyriaque, a filmmaker originally from Haiti who grew up in New York, brings a unique perspective to the cinema industry, deeply rooted in his belief that storytelling reigns supreme. Influenced by early childhood experiences with American TV shows like Sesame Street, Cyriaque emphasizes that "story is king," a philosophy he upholds in his directorial pursuits. He expresses concern over the cinema industry's current trajectory, where financial considerations often overshadow the narrative, diminishing the traditional theatrical experience and leading to what he views as a decline in storytelling quality. Cyriaque also critiques the rapid shift from theatrical releases to video on demand, arguing that this quick transition erodes the value of the cinematic experience, urging a return to prioritizing engaging narratives that captivate audiences.

(00:02:45) Short Films: Directors' Personal Storytelling Investments

(00:05:57) Film Influence on Career Paths

(00:10:23) "Showcasing Director's Storytelling Skills Through Shorts"

(00:19:11) Streaming Services' Influence on Independent Filmmakers' Visibility

(00:29:34) Dynamic Landscape of Modern Visual Narratives

(00:34:52) Media Consumption Shift: Streaming vs. Physical Ownership

(00:44:02) Influencer-Driven Marketing in Movie Promotion

(00:47:01) Evolution of Independent Film Distribution Strategies

(00:52:19) Spielberg's Influence on Film Appreciation

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3977697/