Episodios

  • #289 – Voices of 9/11: Recounting Stories from New Yorkers (Re-release)

    #289 – Voices of 9/11: Recounting Stories from New Yorkers (Re-release)
    Sep 11 2025
    Welcome to Episode 269 of Spun Today, where we dive deep into personal stories of resilience, reflection, and creativity in the face of one of the most transformative events in modern history—the 9/11 attacks. Today, we are honored to have a plethora of voices sharing their firsthand experiences, each providing a unique lens on that tragic day. From David Ortiz witnessing the chaos unfold from his law firm in downtown Manhattan, to Raul Azurdia learning about the attacks from a frantic woman on the street, to Steven Almonte receiving the news during his math class—their stories paint a vivid mosaic of memory, confusion, and eventual understanding. We'll hear from Elaine Almonte, who reflects on the haunting silence of New York City post-9/11, and Janet Velez, who processes her emotions through poetry and faith. Jacey Pascasio recounts the classroom panic and subsequent days filled with fear and uncertainty, while Tony Ortiz examines how these events shaped a generation and altered the cultural landscape forever. Zoila Ortiz recounts being in high school during the attacks while Yudy Azurdia recounts the start to a typical day. Tony’s father reminisces on witnessing the building of the Twin Towers when he first came to the country and sadly seeing them be knocked down. Join us as we explore not only the immediate reactions and long-term impacts of 9/11, but also how these harrowing experiences, foster resilience, and inspire a collective resolve to remember and rebuild. This special episode is a powerful testament to the human spirit's ability to endure and find light, even in the darkest of times. Special thanks to: Jacey Rosa, my Father Segundo Ortiz, David Ortiz, Janet Velez, Yudy Azurdia, Raul Azurdia, Zoila Ortiz, Elaine Almonte & Steven Almonte. The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing & Random Rants, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl. Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/ Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe Links referenced in this episode: 9/11: TIMELINE OF EVENTS: http://www.history.com/topics/9-11-timeline George W. Bush The Night of 9-11-01: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbqCquDl4k4 Angel in the Rubble: The Miraculous Rescue of 9/11's Last Survivor: https://www.amazon.com/Angel-Rubble-Miraculous-Rescue-Survivor/dp/1451635206/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1504562087&sr=8-1&keywords=angel+in+the+rubble Elaine Almonte’s Facebook Post: https://m.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10100795821199994&id=26304929&set=a.836445090434.2248017.26304929 Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN (Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!) Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support Check out my Books Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback & Hardcover are now available). Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you’re passionate about your craft. I’ll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/ Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: https://amzn.to/4km592l Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10 Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, Notebooks, T-Shirts and more: https://spuntoday-shop.fourthwall.com/ Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/ Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk Listen on: ApplePodcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | YouTube | Website
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    2 h y 24 m
  • #288 - Daredevil’s Gray Morality and Emotional Hooks: Storytelling Insights for Writers

    #288 - Daredevil’s Gray Morality and Emotional Hooks: Storytelling Insights for Writers
    Aug 20 2025
    Welcome to Episode 288 of the Spun Today Podcast with Tony Ortiz, where creativity takes the spotlight and storytelling is always at the heart of the conversation. In this episode, Tony dives deep into the writing brilliance of the Daredevil TV series, exploring seasons one through four and unearthing valuable insights every writer and creative can appreciate. From the artful mirroring of hero and villain to the series’ thoughtful examination of moral ambiguity, Tony unpacks the narrative craft that elevates Daredevil beyond the typical superhero genre. But that’s not all—Tony also shares his experience attending Jeff Ross’s one-man Broadway show, offering a peek behind the curtain into comedy, resilience, and the importance of seizing the moment. And in his ongoing segment “Goats Doing Goat Shit,” he pays tribute to trailblazers Matt Stone and Trey Parker for their game-changing moves with South Park. Tune in for practical writing takeaways, reflections on character, layered backstories, and the power of authentic detail—all through an inspiring, creative lens. Whether you’re a writer, a lover of great stories, or just someone chasing the next spark of inspiration, this episode is packed with gems to fuel your craft. The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl. Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spuntoday Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe Links referenced in this episode Daredevil: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3322312/?ref_=ttfc_ov_bk Daredevil Born Again: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt18923754/?ref_=ttfc_ov_bk Jeff Ross’s one-man show: https://jeffrossbroadway.com/ Broadway Lottery Site: https://lottery.broadwaydirect.com/ How to get discounted Broadway tickets: https://youtu.be/LAObU8cNceo?si=NaXg1h8Hnh474hJR Matt Stone & Trey Parker deal: https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/business/story/2025-07-21/south-park-creators-reach-breakthrough-in-paramount-deal-talks Wealth Explained Post: https://www.instagram.com/p/DMp9lmBIAhC/?igsh=MXM3aHY3N2tuNGhqdg== Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN (Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!) Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support Check out my Books Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback & Hardcover are now available). Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you’re passionate about your craft. I’ll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/ Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: https://amzn.to/4km592l Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10 Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, Notebooks, T-Shirts and more: https://spuntoday-shop.fourthwall.com/ Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/ Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk Listen on: ApplePodcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | YouTube | Website
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    1 h y 4 m
  • #287 – Creative Accountability, AI Tools for Writers, Insights from Ta-Nehisi Coates and More! (Free Writing Session)

    #287 – Creative Accountability, AI Tools for Writers, Insights from Ta-Nehisi Coates and More! (Free Writing Session)
    Aug 4 2025
    Welcome back to the Spun Today podcast! In this episode, Tony Ortiz dives deep into the creative process, taking you behind the scenes of his own writing journey. This is a special “free writing session” episode, where Tony shares his candid writing stats—celebrating the progress, confronting the setbacks, and reflecting on what it really takes to pursue your creative goals. Tony opens up about the challenges of working on his second novel, the importance of letting go of perfectionism, and the power of the so-called “zero-th draft” approach, inspired by N.K. Jemisin’s masterclass on writing. You’ll hear about his ongoing project of translating his book "Make Way for You" into Spanish with a little help from AI, and how tracking writing habits can be both humbling and motivating. This episode also highlights a practical writing tip from Naomi Kanakia, explores key takeaways from his recent read—Ta-Nehisi Coates’ "Between the World and Me"—and offers concrete strategies for building worlds and characters in your own fiction. As always, Tony wraps up with an honest, unfiltered free writing piece from his personal notebooks, inviting you to reflect on missed opportunities and the importance of showing up for your craft. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, this episode is packed with real talk, motivational gems, and creative fuel to help you push past self-doubt and get those words on the page. Stick around—you're bound to leave feeling inspired and ready to tackle your next writing session. Check out all free-writing pieces at: spuntoday.com/freewriting. The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl. Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@spuntoday Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe Links referenced in this episode: Writing advice from Naomi Kanakia: The future of fiction | https://post.substack.com/p/the-future-of-fiction?utm_source=post-email-title&publication_id=737237&post_id=163677104&utm_campaign=email-post-title&isFreemail=true&r=z2d6v&triedRedirect=true Ta-Nehisi Coates Between the world and Me: https://amzn.to/4fkVmYz N.K. Jemisin’s Masterclass: https://www.masterclass.com/classes/n-k-jemisin-teaches-fantasy-and-science-fiction-writing Have you Squandered Opportunities? https://www.spuntoday.com/freewriting/squanderedopportunities Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN (Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!) Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support Check out my Books Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback & Hardcover are now available). Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you’re passionate about your craft. I’ll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/ Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: https://amzn.to/4km592l Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10 Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, Notebooks, T-Shirts and more: https://spuntoday-shop.fourthwall.com/ Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/ Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk Listen on: ApplePodcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | YouTube | Website
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    52 m
  • #286 - Finding Inspiration Through Loss, Pandemic Reflections and Honoring Pablo

    #286 - Finding Inspiration Through Loss, Pandemic Reflections and Honoring Pablo
    Jul 11 2025
    Welcome to Episode 286 of the Spun Today Podcast, the show anchored in writing but truly unlimited in its scope. I’m your host, Tony Ortiz, and today we’re diving into something both personal and nostalgic: a throwback tribute episode to my good friend and Spun Today alum, the late, great, Pablo Mosquera Jr. In this heartfelt installment, we revisit one of our annual beach day recordings—this one taking place on Coney Island during that odd window in the summer of 2020, right in the midst of the COVID pandemic. Pablo and I reflect on everything from the challenges and isolation of lockdown, the mental health impact of working from home, and our predictions about the ever-evolving work landscape, to our perennial struggles getting to Governor’s Island for a bike ride and, of course, our shared love of breaking the monotony with a little weekday hooky at the beach. Expect a conversation that ranges far and wide, just like the show itself. We cover road trips, favorite drinks, and the transformative power of routine escapes—plus the creative, life-affirming benefits of unplugging from work and leaning into tradition, even during uncertain times. There’s even a story about a real-life lifeguard rescue and a heap of pop culture moments, from The Sopranos to Patrick Swayze classics, all through the unique lens of creativity, inspiration, and the everyday writer’s perspective. So whether you’re here for the writing talk, the laughs, or some much-needed motivation, this episode invites you to reminisce, recharge, and most of all, keep spinning creativity into your life—no matter what the world throws your way. Let’s get into it. The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing & Random Rants, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl. Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/ Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe Links referenced in this episode: Follow Pablo on Instagram: @pabs711 Fu*k , That's Delicious S04E10 With Action Bronson - Bronx To Farm Cuisine | MUNCHIES & VICE TV: https://youtu.be/cwEjj6dALlk?t=420 Lillo Brancato Jr on 'Bronx Tale', Drug Addiction, Cop Getting Killed, Prison (Full Interview): https://youtu.be/-oqFY7vTEIM Atlanta: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4288182/ Red Dawn: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0087985/ Toy Soldiers: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0103112/ The Movies That Made Us: https://www.netflix.com/title/80990849 Point Break: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0102685/ Talking Sopranos: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDUH23ccuK5a2rhKqE1HcEw Two dope scenes from True Romance: 1. The Sicilian Scene: https://youtu.be/S3yon2GyoiM 2. Fight scene Part 1: https://youtu.be/VxRpMphMmXM & Part 2: https://youtu.be/2l1hDC34gTc Listen to episode #283 (re-release of #107 – Beach Day with Pablo): Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/283-cycles-of-life-loss-and-stories-honoring/id924328532?i=1000709665351 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/44wHccKC8Jpuu3eYLd1fO5?si=R7EH9dQZSAKFutXeSF80YQ&nd=1&dlsi=e830def4b0bd401c YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7lfWTjGP2JY Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN (Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!) Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support Check out my Books Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback & Hardcover are now available). Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you’re passionate about your craft. I’ll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/ Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: http://www.amazon.com//ref=as_sl_pc_tf_lc?&tag=sputod0c-20&camp=216797&creative=446321&linkCode=ur1&adid=104DDN7SG8A2HXW52TFB&&ref-refURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.spuntoday.com%2Fcontact%2F Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10 Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, T-Shirts and more: https://viralstyle.com/store/spuntoday/tonyortiz Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/ Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk Listen on: iTunes | Spotify| Pocket Casts| YouTube | Website
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    1 h y 40 m
  • #285 – Turning Real Life into Art: Writing Takeaways from Standup, Storytelling, and Politics

    #285 – Turning Real Life into Art: Writing Takeaways from Standup, Storytelling, and Politics
    Jun 22 2025
    Welcome to another episode of the Spun Today Podcast with your host, Tony Ortiz—the show anchored in writing and limitless in scope. In this episode, Tony dives deep into the creative process and storytelling power behind Andrew Schulz's latest Netflix comedy special, "Life." You'll hear how Schulz's masterful blend of vulnerability, humor, and innovative production offers rich lessons for writers and creatives alike. Tony also takes us behind the scenes at Ari Shaffir's final live storytelling show, celebrating artistic integrity, perseverance, and the unbreakable bond of creative community—even in the face of industry setbacks. From learning how to mine personal struggles for resonant stories, to understanding the importance of owning your creative work, Tony distills profound inspiration from comedy, current events, and personal experience. Plus, he shares his perspective on the upcoming New York City mayoral election, breaks down the legendary Warner Bros deal by Ryan Coogler in the latest "Goats Doing Goat Shit" segment, and, as always, serves up actionable insights for fellow writers, storytellers, and dream-chasers. So, whether you're looking for writing motivation, creative strategies, or just a fresh take on culture through a storyteller’s lens, you’ve come to the right place. Let's get started! The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing & Random Rants, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl. Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/ Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe Links referenced in this episode The LIFE Tour Comedy Special: https://www.netflix.com/title/81741999 Check out he Flagrant Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@OfficialFlagrant Check out the Brilliant Idiots Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@BrilliantIdiotsPod Ryan Coogler on Democracy now speaking about his deal: https://youtube.com/shorts/lebChsax1aQ?si=ODBmHu9Tyqj039rW Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN (Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!) Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support Check out my Books Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback & Hardcover are now available). Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you’re passionate about your craft. I’ll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/ Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: https://amzn.to/4km592l Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10 Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, Notebooks, T-Shirts and more: https://spuntoday-shop.fourthwall.com/ Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/ Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk Listen on: ApplePodcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | YouTube | Website
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    1 h y 3 m
  • #284 - Sinners: Creativity, Symbolism, and Storytelling Insights from Ryan Coogler’s Latest Film

    #284 - Sinners: Creativity, Symbolism, and Storytelling Insights from Ryan Coogler’s Latest Film
    Jun 7 2025
    Welcome back to another episode of Spun Today. In this episode, I dive into a creative review and breakdown of the film Sinners, written and directed by Ryan Coogler. I pull out writing insights, character craft, and the power of blending personal history with big genre themes—sharing lessons any writer or creative can use to fuel their own work. But that’s just the beginning. I also recount the unforgettable experience of seeing comedian, writer, and director Mo Amer live in New York City, and what it meant to meet a creative whose storytelling is as universal as it is personal. Plus, I touch on big podcast news, including Marc Maron’s announcement that the legendary WTF podcast is coming to an end after over 1600 episodes and 16 years. Whether you’re a writer seeking inspiration, a fan of genre-bending stories, or just someone looking to stay in the loop with creative culture, this episode is for you. So settle in—let’s explore the art of storytelling, the magic of live comedy, and the evolving world of podcasts, all through the ever-creative lens of Spun Today. The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing & Random Rants, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl. Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/ Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe Links referenced in this episode: SINNERS BREAKDOWN! Easter Eggs & Details You Missed! https://youtu.be/O80E59y2KOY?si=qcdF_aQbaRNAVYy0 SINNERS Breakdown and Ending Explained! https://youtu.be/9joTyJfKjEU?si=tLAdApNimQxUZflK Every Sinners Easter Egg EXPLAINED in 6 Minutes! https://youtu.be/2MO08i6sm08?si=s0DcEeqtObT7Q7a4 JAY-Z - 4:44 https://youtu.be/zSkA61esq_c?si=Iztsm9SKpcgdHtwi Ryan Coogler & Ludwig Göransson | Friends Like These https://youtu.be/Rz3xHhOLK6M?si=7Tr09vS4CWeglMX5 “Sinners”: Director Ryan Coogler on His Latest Hit, Delta Blues, His Mississippi Roots & Vampires https://youtu.be/Pjb_eH0C_vQ?si=wJDgMtwybI2hIfrM Marc Maron is ending WTF: https://www.theguardian.com/media/2025/jun/03/marc-maron-wtf-podcast-ending-five-best-interviews https://www.nbcnews.com/pop-culture/pop-culture-news/marc-maron-wtf-podcast-ending-fall-rcna210372 Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN (Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!) Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support Check out my Books Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback & Hardcover are now available). Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you’re passionate about your craft. I’ll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/ Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: https://amzn.to/4km592l Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10 Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, Notebooks, T-Shirts and more: https://spuntoday-shop.fourthwall.com/ Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/ Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk Listen on: ApplePodcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | YouTube | Website
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    1 h y 1 m
  • #283 – Cycles of Life, Loss, and Stories: Honoring Friendship and Remembering Pablo Mosquera Jr.

    #283 – Cycles of Life, Loss, and Stories: Honoring Friendship and Remembering Pablo Mosquera Jr.
    May 24 2025
    Welcome to Episode 283 of the Spun Today podcast—the only podcast anchored in writing, but unlimited in scope. I’m your host, Tony Ortiz, and in this deeply personal and heartfelt episode, I invite you to join me as I honor the memory of my dear friend and Spun Today alumni, Pablo Mosquera Jr., who tragically passed away earlier this year. This episode is a special re-release of one of my favorite beachside conversations with Pablo, originally recorded on a traditional day off in Coney Island—a ritual we created to escape the grind, share stories, and reflect on life while soaking up the summer sun. It’s an episode filled with laughter, nostalgia, and the kind of meaningful storytelling that makes the Spun Today podcast what it is. Throughout this episode, I touch on everything from cherished friendship catchphrases and cycling marathons, to our first jobs and the profound impact travel can have on creativity and perspective. We reminisce about coming-of-age moments, family reunions, and the small rituals that inspire us. As you listen, I hope you’ll appreciate the raw emotion and candid storytelling as much as I did revisiting it. Whether you’re tuning in as a writer looking for inspiration, or as someone seeking comfort in community, this episode is a reminder to cherish every moment, tell your stories, and put pen to paper while you still can. So pull up a chair (or a spot on the sand), and get ready for an episode that’s as much a tribute as it is a celebration of creative living. Rest in peace, Pablo—you are missed, and your story lives on through the words and memories we share. Let’s get into it. The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing & Random Rants, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl. Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/ Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe Links referenced in this episode: Follow Pablo on Twitter: @pabs711 & Instagram: @pabs711 Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN (Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!) Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support Check out my Books Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback & Hardcover are now available). Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you’re passionate about your craft. I’ll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/ Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: http://www.amazon.com//ref=as_sl_pc_tf_lc?&tag=sputod0c-20&camp=216797&creative=446321&linkCode=ur1&adid=104DDN7SG8A2HXW52TFB&&ref-refURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.spuntoday.com%2Fcontact%2F Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10 Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, T-Shirts and more: https://viralstyle.com/store/spuntoday/tonyortiz Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/ Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk Listen on: iTunes | Spotify| Pocket Casts| YouTube | Website
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    1 h y 34 m
  • #282 – Journey from Freelance Writing to Teaching: Insights from Amanda Lucas

    #282 – Journey from Freelance Writing to Teaching: Insights from Amanda Lucas
    Apr 1 2025
    Welcome to another episode of the Spun Today podcast! In this captivating session, host Tony Ortiz sits down with Amanda Lucas, a middle school ELA teacher with a rich tapestry of experiences in both education and writing. Amanda shares her journey from being an aspiring writer and journalist to embracing her role as an educator. As an insightful storyteller, she dives deep into the nuances of teaching different grade levels, from dealing with classroom management to confronting bullying. Amanda also opens up about the challenges of adjusting to digital teaching in a post-Covid world. As a co-host of the Che podcast, she shares her insights on how educators navigate the intricacies of teaching, while still finding room to nurture young minds creatively. Tune in to explore Amanda's unique experiences and discover more about her impactful journey in shaping and inspiring future generations. The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing & Random Rants, but unlimited in scope. Give it a whirl. Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/ Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe Links referenced in this episode: I Need An Idea! (A Leli and Emmi Book) https://amzn.to/4hSvjYs Check out Amanda’s Podcast: Ch! Wherever you listen to podcasts. iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ch/id1443818572 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/3HLRAzQJiplVcsv68Ce0W0?si=YgEBWrKZSfeGK8nnA11dBw Follow the Podcast on IG: @chcast Follow Amanda on IG: @itzmeamandalee Gotham Writers: https://www.writingclasses.com/ Parents Magazine: https://www.parents.com/parents-magazine/ Meredith Corporation: https://www.meredith.com/national-media/brands Check out Leli’s Magical Stitches: https://vimeo.com/80441330 Articles by Amanda: https://www.smilesforall.com/first-grade-first-love/ https://www.parents.com/baby/gear/sling/how-to-buy-a-backpack-carrier1/ https://www.parents.com/baby/gear/sling/14-baby-carriers/ Check out Elizabeth Acevedo’s website: http://www.acevedowrites.com/ Some of the books referenced in this episode: I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter: https://www.amazon.com/Not-Your-Perfect-Mexican-Daughter/dp/1524700517/ref=sr_1_1?crid=7SGY6YEGY648&dchild=1&keywords=i%27m+not+your+perfect+mexican+daughter&qid=1592881345&sprefix=i%27m+not+your+per%2Caps%2C155&sr=8-1 How Tia Lola Came to (Visit) Stay (The Tia Lola Stories): https://www.amazon.com/Lola-Came-Visit-Stay-Stories/dp/0440418704/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=tia+lola&qid=1592881392&sr=8-1 Fever 1793: https://www.amazon.com/Fever-1793-Laurie-Halse-Anderson/dp/0689848919/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=Fever+1793&qid=1592881188&sr=8-1 Night: https://www.amazon.com/Night-Elie-Wiesel/dp/0374500010/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1CF64KYF0BMZM&dchild=1&keywords=night+by+elie+wiesel&qid=1592883611&sprefix=night+by+%2Caps%2C157&sr=8-1 Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN (Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!) Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support Check out my Books Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback & Hardcover are now available). Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you’re passionate about your craft. I’ll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/ Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: http://www.amazon.com//ref=as_sl_pc_tf_lc?&tag=sputod0c-20&camp=216797&creative=446321&linkCode=ur1&adid=104DDN7SG8A2HXW52TFB&&ref-refURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.spuntoday.com%2Fcontact%2F Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10 Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, T-Shirts and more: https://viralstyle.com/store/spuntoday/tonyortiz Music: https://www.purple-planet.com Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/ Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk Listen on: iTunes | Spotify| Pocket Casts| YouTube | Website
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