In this episode of the David Watson Podcast, Rusty Austin shares how he rode the early reality-TV wave from Survivor to 16 seasons on Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen, then reinvented himself as a children’s author and poet. We get into what really happens behind the scenes on long shoot days, why casting drives reality TV, how editing compresses 400 hours into 60 minutes, and the difference between Ramsay the on-camera character and the chef. Rusty also talks through his simple, repeatable writing process, the power of first drafts, and a brilliant classroom collaboration where 40+ students illustrated one of his books. We finish with his baseball history project, his memoir “Dave and Me,” and a fun time-machine question. Former reality-TV producer/post producer (Survivor, Hell’s Kitchen) • Children’s author and poet focused on short, memorable, rhyming pieces • Classroom collaborator: students illustrated “An Awesome Bird: The Pelican” • Also co-authored a baseball history volume and wrote the memoir “Dave and Me” Guest site: https://rustyaustin.com

Today’s guest is Dr. Chris Koutures, a dual-board-certified paediatric and sports-medicine physician who has supported USA Volleyball at the Olympic level and treats everyone from new-borns to elite athletes. We dig into what separates top performers, how pros actually warm up, the realities of injury prevention, and how to train smarter at any age. What you’ll learn • The team behind elite athletes: medical, technical, logistics, and psychology • Mental skills that separate final-roster athletes: consistency, flexibility, handling failure • The evolution of injury prevention and why rest and variability matter • How a good diagnosis starts with the whole person, not just the body part • Smarter training after injuries and as you get older • Dynamic warm-ups that actually prepare you to train • Youth sport realities: growth spurts, single-sport risks, and talking with parents • Life inside the Olympic Village, camaraderie, and focus between sessions Guest Dr. Chris Koutures, MD, FAAP, Sports Medicine and Paediatrics. Team physician experience with USA Volleyball and extensive work with youth through professional athletes. Active Kid MD - OC Pediatric and Sports Medicine Practice

Kevin Hall shares how he sells books every month without paying for ads, and why saying yes beats perfection. We also dive into Kodak/Xerox history, impostor syndrome, and practical podcasting tips that improve your on-camera presence today. In this David Watson Podcast episode, Kevin breaks down the steps behind his memoirs, his spiritual book, and his new guide “Book Marketing on a Budget: Simple Steps for New Authors.” If you’re an author or podcaster trying to grow without big spend, this conversation is a blueprint. Guest Kevin Hall — author of Ilion: My Childhood, My Memories; My Rosemount MN Memories; Signs – The Veil is Thinner Than We Imagine; and Book Marketing on a Budget (forthcoming). Website: https://www.kevin-hall.com What you’ll learn • A simple glasses fix to remove on-camera glare • Why perfection kills momentum (and why the answer is “yes”) • Local media, libraries, and alumni networks as free marketing channels • Podcasting basics that boost presence: eye line, lighting, pacing • A Xerox/Kodak crash course: what empires teach about innovation • How to pitch without being salesy, and handle rejection easily • Turning family stories into memoirs that actually get read • Why feedback isn’t criticism — it’s your growth engine Timestamps 00:00 Intro and a quick tip to kill glasses glare on camera 01:05 Small talk to confidence: saying yes, not perfect 02:29 Where Kevin grew up and why place matters to story 03:36 Moving states, friendship, marriage, and life lessons07:05 Kodak and Xerox: toner, film, and the cost of missed pivots 12:16 The office copier era, queues, and culture we’ve lost 18:10 From corporate lessons to author mindset 24:06 New authors: why local press, libraries, and alumni lists work 27:06 Book Marketing on a Budget: staircase strategy overview 33:10 Podcasting tips: eye contact, lighting, voice, and presence 40:14 Impostor syndrome and building confidence through action 47:20 The books: memoirs, spiritual stories, and the new marketing guide 1:04:00 Leaving a legacy for grandkids and your future readers 1:18:45 Viral moments happen to the consistent 1:23:06 Final question: time machine, songs, and perspective 1:26:00 Wrap-up and takeaways Calls to action • If this helped, like, comment with your biggest takeaway, and subscribe for weekly conversations. • Are you an author or podcaster with a story to share? Get in touch to be a guest. • Check Kevin’s books and say hi: https://www.kevin-hall.com

In this episode of The David Watson Podcast, I talk with Liz Entin, creator of WTF Just Happened?! — a project exploring the possibility of an afterlife through evidence, data, and first hand investigation. After losing her father, Liz set out to uncover whether consciousness continues after death, combining science, mediumship research, and a sceptical but open mindset. We discuss: • What inspired WTF Just Happened?! • How science and spirituality can overlap • Mediums, psychic research, and critical thinking • Grief, loss, and the search for meaning • What evidence (if any) points to life after death If you’re interested in the intersection of science, spirituality, and the afterlife, this episode offers a grounded look at a subject often dismissed or misunderstood. Watch, subscribe, and share your thoughts below — do you believe consciousness continues? Links Liz Entin’s website: https://www.wtfjusthappened.net

In this episode of the David Watson Podcast, betrayal-trauma practitioner Mr Jay breaks down what really happens to your brain and body after infidelity or a breakup, why the pain can feel worse than grief, and the practical steps to move from shock to stability to rebuilding. We talk about • Why betrayal trauma is different: it feels personal, it’s a “secret society,” and it even rewrites your past • The brain on betrayal: amygdala overdrive, prefrontal cortex shutdown, hippocampus and time/place distortions• Triggers and “emotional flashbacks,” and how to calm the system so you can think again• The early rule: don’t make major decisions in the first 3–6 months; choose from empowerment, not fear • Needs assessment 101: what you actually need in week 1 vs. week 12 • Betrayal blindness and the thousand micro-justifications that precede an affair• Reframing the inner dialogue: separating your worth from someone else’s choices• Pebbles and raindrops: tiny promises that rebuild self-trust and self-esteem• Practical tools: journaling, simple meditations, walking, “gratitude with reasons,” and everyday follow-through • Staying vs leaving in long relationships: finances, family systems, resentment, and compassion without excusing • The “dash” on the tombstone, bridge-and-volcano analogy, and other mindsets that help you keep going Key takeaways • Healing time beats time alone. Numbing and avoiding stretch the pain; gentle daily work releases it. • You are 0% responsible for someone else’s decision to betray. You’re 100% responsible for how you show up next. • Self-esteem returns through kept promises to yourself. Start very small and be consistent. • If you stay, rebuild from safety and transparency; if you leave, leave when you feel grounded and resourced. Resources and mentions • Mr Jay, betrayal-trauma practitioner and relationship coach • Gratitude journal exercise: list 3 things you’re grateful for, with 3 reasons each • Music mention: The Lady of Shalott by Loreena McKennitt If you’re in the thick of it Please don’t do anything rash. Give yourself days and weeks to settle your nervous system. Talk to someone trained in betrayal/trauma. Being heard and guided changes everything.  Where to find Mr Jay https://mrjayrelationshipcoach.com

n this episode of The David Watson Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Jimmy Moley, MD — a leading sports psychiatrist specializing in the mental health and performance of athletes. We discuss the unseen psychological battles behind elite competition, the neuroscience of motivation, and practical strategies athletes can use to stay mentally strong under pressure. Dr. Moley shares insights from his work with top performers, his background in sports psychiatry, and how mental training can be just as crucial as physical conditioning. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or simply interested in mindset and resilience, this conversation delivers practical, science-based takeaways you can apply today. Topics discussed: The psychology of elite athletic performance How to manage pressure, burnout, and competition anxiety The role of psychiatry and therapy in sports Mental health stigma in professional athletics Building mental resilience and recovery habits What separates the mindset of good athletes from great ones Guest links: Website: https://www.jimmymoleymd.com

In this powerful episode of The David Watson Podcast, world-renowned cardiologist and author Dr. Peter R. Kowey exposes the truth behind the growing crisis in American healthcare. Drawing from his new book, Failure to Treat: How a Broken Healthcare System Puts Patients and Practitioners at Risk, Dr. Kowey reveals how decades of political lobbying, pharmaceutical greed, and insurance control have created a system that harms both patients and doctors. We break down the key reasons why U.S. healthcare is failing — and what must change to fix it. In this episode: How lobbyists and politicians shaped today’s broken system The hidden influence of pharmaceutical companies on doctors and prescriptions. How health insurance companies limit care and increase costs. Why lawsuits and corporate pressure drive doctors out of medicine. The systemic failures built into the U.S. healthcare model since its creation Real stories from Dr. Kowey’s experience treating patients inside a flawed system. Practical insights on how to protect yourself and advocate for better care. About Dr. Peter Kowey: Dr. Kowey is an internationally recognized cardiologist, medical researcher, and author. He currently serves as Professor of Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology at Thomas Jefferson University and holds the William Wikoff Smith Chair in Cardiovascular Research at the Lankenau Institute for Medical Research. His decades of experience have made him one of the most respected voices in modern medicine. About the book: Failure to Treat is a revealing exploration of how money, politics, and bureaucracy have corrupted American medicine — and what can be done to restore trust and integrity in healthcare. Listen to this episode if you’re interested in: Healthcare reform and policy Big Pharma and political lobbying The U.S. medical system’s hidden costs Doctor burnout and malpractice issues Patient advocacy and healthcare ethics Guest: Dr. Peter R. KoweyHome | Peter Kowey Author Host: David Watson Podcast: The David Watson Podcast

In this episode of the David Watson Podcast, I sit down with Jessica K. Foster, author of Andy and the Extroverts and other funny, heartfelt Young Adult Contemporary romances. Jessica shares her journey from middle school Language Arts teacher to published YA author, and we talk about balancing creativity, teaching, and family life in West Michigan. We dive into what makes YA romance so powerful, the emotional truths behind her stories, and how she finds humour and heart in the everyday lives of teens. Jessica also offers insight into the writing process, her love for romantic beach reads, and how her students inspire her characters. Whether you’re a writer, teacher, or YA fiction lover, you’ll find this conversation full of warmth, laughter, and inspiration. Website: https://jessicakfoster.comInstagram:   / jessicakfosterauthor   Goodreads:   / 24289158.jessica_k_foster  

Julian Raven joins the David Watson Podcast for a deep and thought-provoking conversation about art, politics, and free expression. Known for his powerful pro-Trump painting “Unafraid and Unashamed” and his high-profile legal battle with the Smithsonian Institution, Raven shares his personal story as an artist, activist, and outspoken defender of artistic freedom. In this episode, we explore how art and politics collide, the meaning behind his most controversial works, and what drives him to keep creating despite censorship and criticism. Julian Raven offers insight into his journey from the United Kingdom to the United States, his creative process, and his experiences navigating the modern art world. Topics discussed include: The inspiration behind “Unafraid and Unashamed” Julian Raven’s lawsuit against the Smithsonian and the National Portrait Gallery Art, free speech, and political expression in modern America Julian Substack https://substack.com/@julianraven Art Gallery https://ravenartstudiomarbella.com/

Stephen is a spokesperson for Guns of America, an advocate of the 2nd Amendment and a man who believes in Gods work. As someone who has faced real life danger, and thanks to the 2nd amendment he was able to protect himself and his community, Stephen probably knows better than most why it is so important he and the GOA continue to fight to protect the Right To Bear Arms. Stephen Willeford https://www.thebarefootdefender.com/

What if you're writing a book series about espionage, dangerous governments and you have worked at the forefront defending your country from all of these threats. Steinke has spent a lifetime in US national security roles, including twenty-eight years in the US Army and fourteen in the Department of Defence. His official duties have taken him from the US Military Academy at West Point to over thirty countries on the Eurasian landmass, including Afghanistan and Ukraine. Steinke holds master’s degrees in West European studies and diplomacy from Indiana and Norwich Universities, respectively, as well as post-graduation certificates in national and international security affairs from Harvard and Stanford Universities. His passions include faith, family, fly fishing, and travel. Rick https://ricksteinke.com/

Every so often, a story walks into your life which reminds you of the power of never saying never. Jane Fischer’s is that kind of story. Jane’s life started like many others. A bright college graduate, she stepped into the classroom as a teacher, fuelled by a passion to shape young minds. Then came marriage and children. The first few chapters of her life read as expected until the arrival of Suzy, her second child. Suzy was born with severe medical and developmental challenges, and the prognosis was grim. Jane, then just 24 years old, was handed a laundry list of nevers: Suzy would never walk, never talk, never learn. But Jane wasn’t interested in anyone else’s script. Instead, she rolled up her sleeves, wiped away the tears and wrote her own. And now Jane, a resident of New Jersey in the United States, has written a book about the story of her fight and journey for Suzy. If You Knew Suzy: Pushing Past the Boundaries of Never. (September 2024, G&D Media) “At 24, I had no idea where to start,” Jane says. “But I knew I had to start somewhere.” Suzy’s early years were a whirlwind of hospital visits, therapies and sleepless nights. Jane plunged into the world of special needs, armed with nothing more than fierce maternal love and a refusal to accept limitations. She became an advocate for Suzy, eventually earning her certification as a teacher of special needs children and later working as a learning consultant. Jane’s advocacy did not stop at her daughter’s needs. She spearheaded socialization programs, founded special education PTAs and fought tirelessly to ensure children like Suzy weren’t just present but truly represented. Website https://www.janemfischer.com/

Dana Sutton is a tutor, coach, and parent with decades of experience working with children and young people. She currently provides consulting and accounting services for businesses. A keen athlete while growing up, Dana enjoyed fastball, ringette, volleyball, hockey, martial arts and skiing (both in water and downhill). These days, when she isn’t busy with work or grandchildren, Dana can be found reading a book or riding her motorcycle through Kelowna, B.C., where she lives with her husband and dogs. If you look closely you might even see her dogs in her books! When I was raising my children I always focused on being open with them. I don't believe there are any "off-limit subjects". If my children were asking about something, or had been exposed to something, then I worked hard to help them understand using age-appropriate language; even when the topic was uncomfortable for me. When I started writing children's books, and especially with the topic in Maddie Finds Her Place, I really focused on that strategy. My experience is that, if the language is framed well, then children at each age level receive exactly what they need and are capable of understanding the conversation. Dana https://www.danasuttonbooks.com/home  

Today I spoke with returning guest Dr Ran Anbar about how Hypnosis Really Works For You. Your inner voice, how you use you imagination, how your outlook affects your reality. We go deep into what reality really is and how you can use it to manifest the life you want. The world you're living today is a reflection of your thinking and the more you practise how you think, the more you visualise, the more you can create your reality. Dr Ran Anbar discusses how to do this and gives you the tools so you can do it for yourself. Dr Ran Anbar https://www.centerpointmedicine.com/p...

Today I spoke with Cevin Solvin about "The War on Kids: Why This Filmmaker Wants to End Compulsory Schooling" Cevin has made documentary's and written the book The Student Resistance Handbook. Cevin Soling stands as a pioneering force in American literature and filmmaking, seamlessly weaving profound narratives across both mediums. Renowned for his innovative storytelling, Soling’s literary works and cinematic creations redefine artistic boundaries, earning him acclaim as a visionary in the realm of creative expression. With a unique blend of intellect and imagination, he continues to shape and inspire the landscape of contemporary literature and film. Cevin Soiling https://amzn.eu/d/3WCrGLU The Student Resistance Handbook https://amzn.eu/d/3WCrGLU

Mathematical Genius Provides Formula For Living In a Better World. Keith Robins explain to me how he came to write his thought provoking book and the compelling case he makes for finding your bubble to build a better life for yourself. The Fourth Coming https://amzn.eu/d/7YzLgmV  

Today I caught up with Tenderbastard and we discussed the progress since I last spoke to him, the new songs he has written and what his plans are to license his name and get into the Marijuana business and possible grow his own. And we finished with one of his new songs.

Madelyn Simon can only be described as an original go getter. In 2020 when the world was locked down, Madelyn started to think about the stories she once told, and inspired by her own life and art, she put ideas to paper and through her art teacher, pictures filled the words on the page and Poppy came to life. Seven books later we have a wonderful series which helps children understand the world around them, how to find courage and how to find kindness, and the most important of all, how to love yourself enough to have boundaries. Madelyn Simon https://www.madelynsimon.com

Katherine Davis Gibbon has written has written her own unique books to help children learn words is a way only the visual mind can understand. Words children can learn, and the way they can learn is an amazing process where the word is a character a thoughtful process which brings a word into a 3D concept, a person, an analogy, a metaphor, so much more than a one dimensional space. This process of illustration not only helps a child remember the word, but they can play with the word which helps understand it's meaning. Katherine Davis Gibbon https://www.riverletpress.com  

Annie Fox is an author of books for children and teens. Annie loves making art, baking, gardening, photography, hiking in the San Francisco Bay Area, traveling, and, most of all, being with her husband David and her family, including Gracie the Dog. The Little Things That Kill: A Teen Friendship Afterlife Apology Tour was her debut novel and Leeta Simtar: A Life on Two Planets is her latest. Every author has a journey. Mine began in childhood with the gift of a diary and the discovery that magic happens when one puts pen to paper. The magic of whole worlds conjured out of nothing, populated by characters real enough to command their own destiny. My love of stories and my need to create them led to the publication of my first book People Are Like Lollipops. That simple picture book for young children, written while I was still a college student, celebrated diversity. Many years and thirteen books later, I’m still motivated by the tremendous power of stories to help young readers develop empathy, compassion and resilience. Through my public events for kids, teens, parents, I continue the joyful work of empowering young people through increased self-awareness and emotional intelligence skill-building. Annie Fox https://anniefox.com/