Today is my second podcast with David Singer. If you want David's full background please go to Podcast #139. David has had an exceptional musical career playing for decades on world-class stages, but his life's story is one of humble roots, grit and determination, and at one time, he had three jobs to provide for his family. David Singer has performed many times in Carnegie Hall including a chamber music performance, a trio, with the iconic violinist Yehudi Menuhin, and pianist Gyorgy Sandor. He was a principal member and soloist with the Grammy Award-winning Orpheus Chamber Orchestra for 36 years and is featured on many of the group's 70 CDs on Deutsche Grammophon.

He also played at the White House in separate performances for Presidents Carter and Clinton. His story-filled book, "From Cab Driver to Carnegie Hall", is more than a musician's memoir; it is an inspiring narrative that resonates with anyone who has faced life's challenges head-on. An ode to the power of never giving up and giving oneself every chance to succeed. David shares in his book stories of performing with: Yehudi Menuhin, Yo-Yo Ma, Itzhak Perlman, Rudolf Serkin, Andre Previn, actress Stockard Channing, Pablo Casals, Branford Marsalis and more. To learn more about David: https://singerclarinet.com

Today's podcast is all about Davon Patterson. He is a powerful example of transformation, resilience, and the human capacity for change. After being sentenced to 38 years in prison, Da'Von's life took an unexpected and defining turn while incarcerated at the California Institute for Men. Through Canine Support Teams' Prison Pup Program, he became involved in the training of service dogs—an experience that would reshape his sense of purpose, responsibility, and connection. He discovered patience, empathy, trust, and the discipline required to care for another life. The program became a catalyst for personal growth, grounded in faith, mentorship, and accountability, offering Da'Von a path forward when few believed one existed. Today, Da'Von's story reflects the broader mission of Canine Support Teams: changing lives through service, partnership, and second chances. His journey highlights the profound impact that service dogs can have—not only for Veterans and individuals with disabilities, but also for those entrusted to help prepare these dogs for their future roles. Da'Von Patterson's life stands as a reminder that redemption is not defined by where someone begins, but by the choices they make when given the opportunity to grow. His story continues to inspire conversations about rehabilitation, purpose, and the transformative power of compassion. To learn more about Davon: https://caninesupportteams.org/about-us

Today's podcast is all about Henry Jenkins. He is the author or editor of 25 books on popular culture, including "Textual Poachers: Television Fans" and "Participatory Culture, Convergence Culture: Where Old and New Media Collide", "By Any Media Necessary: The New Youth Activism" and the "Frames of Fandom" book series. He is the Provost's Professor of Communication, Journalism, Cinematic Arts, Education, and East Asian Languages and Cultures at the University of Southern California. To learn more about Henry: https://annenberg.usc.edu/faculty/henry-jenkins