Wisdom Shared with Carole Blueweiss

Episode Summary

In this conversation with filmmaker and self-described Renaissance Man Stewart Schulman, we discuss his multifaceted career and his collaborations with John Bayless, highlighting projects like One Hand One Heart and the award-winning feature documentary Left Alone Rhapsody: The Musical Memoir of Pianist John Bayless. Schulman shares Bayless' life from childhood illness and genius piano playing at age four to Julliard as Leonard Bernstein's protege; from his Baptist upbringing to conversion to Judaism; and from playing the piano around the world as a Steinway then Yamaha artist with two hands to his re-invented life post-stroke re-learning to play the piano with his non-dominant left hand. Stewart's stories about his life and the filmmaking process are delightfully accented by John's music and one-man show, One Hand One Heart. I hope this episode (and John Bayless episode!) inspires you to see the fabulous film, Left Alone Rhapsody.

About Stewart Schulman

I love stories. Watching them. Telling them. They’re journeys that open our minds—our hearts—and show us new ways of thinking.

I aim for my work to be entertaining and socially relevant—challenging perceptions and inspiring ‘change’. It’s how we grow.

People I work with have called me a “Renaissance Man”—because I’ve explored many different creative mediums to broaden my skills as a writer, director and producer. They also tell me I bring an even-keeled temperament to the table, keep my work environments professional and enjoyable, and get the job done right.

Contact me with questions. I look forward to working with you in the future.

https://www.stewartschulman.com/

Act Two MediaWorks

From This Episode

Left Alone Rhapsody: The Musical Memoir of Pianist John Bayless

• Watch the trailer for Left Alone Rhapsody.
• Watch at Reel Abilities Film Festival in New York City on April 4th, with a live performance by John Bayless on April 8th Free Tickets Here
• Watch at the Sarasota Film Festival on April 10th Tickets Here
• Watch at the Jewish Film Festival of Pittsburgh on May 2nd, with a live performance by John Bayless Tickets Here
• Watch the Long Island Premiere on May 9th at the Jeanne Rimsky Theater , with a live performance by John Bayless

John Bayless – One Hand One Heart: My Life & My Music This new ‘one-man-one-hand only’ play—with music by Gershwin, Bernstein, Puccini, Mancini, Rachmaninoff, Rodgers, Legrand and theworld-renowned concert pianist, John Bayless, himself—takes audiences on the journey of John’s remarkable life. John talks openly about his highs and lows, and his determination to create a second act for himself as an artist.

The play begins with a 4-year-old John becoming a musical prodigy in his hometown of Borger, Texas, which sets him on a life-long adventure and a 30-year career as a concert pianist, which is suddenly halted by a debilitating stroke. John shares the "hell" he faced, post-stroke, trying desperately to journey back to life to be an artist in a new way. His spiritual awakening led him to his unbelievable comeback, concertizing with his left hand all alone! This inspiring one-man show evokes laughter and tears, showcasing John’s astonishing musicianship, as he shares his amazing life-story.

Music featured in the episode:

• That's It! composed by John Bayless with Robert Freedman, featured in One Hand One Heart
• Winter Tableau composed by John Bayless, used in collaboration with choreographer Heidi Latsky
• Rhapsody in Blue by George Gershwin, reimagined for one hand by John Bayless

Heidi Latsky Dance

Find and Follow Carole and Wisdom Shared:

• https://www.caroleblueweiss.com/
• Subscribe to my YouTube channel
• Follow me and send me a message on Facebook
• Follow me and send me a message on LinkedIn
• Follow me on Instagram
• Follow me on TikTok
• Follow me on Threads

The Wisdom Shared Team

• Audio Engineering by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works
• Co-Producer and Marketing Coordinator: Kayla Nelson
• Production Assistant: Becki Leigh

Episode Summary

My special guest for this episode is pianist John Bayless, whose story is featured in the incredible documentary Left Alone Rhapsody: The Musical Memoir of Pianist John Bayless. In our conversation, John reflects on life before and after his stroke. Post-stroke, John's resilience shines through as he embarks on a remarkable path of self-recovery and discovery. Teaching himself to play with just his left hand, he defied the odds and embraced a new chapter. John's story and music make this episode a must-listen, just as the documentary is a must-watch.

About John Bayless

John Bayless is an internationally renowned concert pianist, composer, improviser, and prolific recording artist. A protégé of Leonard Bernstein and a Yamaha artist, John is a crossover artist known for how he blends classical training and piano technique with popular music in imaginative improvisations. Despite a debilitating stroke halting his illustrious 30-year career, John refused to surrender. Instead, he embarked on a second act, teaching himself to play with just his left hand. This story is brilliantly shared in Stewart Schulman's documentary Left Alone Rhapsody: The Musical Memoir of Pianist John Bayless.

From This Episode

Left Alone Rhapsody: The Musical Memoir of Pianist John Bayless

• Watch the trailer for Left Alone Rhapsody.
• Watch at Reel Abilities Film Festival in New York City on April 4th, with a live performance by John Bayless on April 8th Free Tickets Here
• Watch at the Sarasota Film Festival on April 10th Tickets Here
• Watch at the Jewish Film Festival of Pittsburgh on May 2nd, with a live performance by John Bayless Tickets Here
• Watch the Long Island Premiere on May 9th at the Jeanne Rimsky Theater , with a live performance by John Bayless

The John Bayless Fund for Brain Research

Yamaha's Disklavier

Music featured in the episode:

• Circle of Life, from the album "Circle of Life: The Music of Elton John in the Style of Bach"
• Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, from the album "Circle of Life: The Music of Elton John in the Style of Bach"

Find and Follow Carole and Wisdom Shared:

• https://www.caroleblueweiss.com/
• Subscribe to my YouTube channel
• Follow me and send me a message on Facebook
• Follow me and send me a message on LinkedIn
• Follow me on Instagram
• Follow me on TikTok
• Follow me on Threads

The Wisdom Shared Team

• Audio Engineering by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works
• Production Assistant and Marketing Coordinator: Kayla Nelson
• Production Assistant: Becki Leigh

Episode Summary

In this poignant episode, Jacob Moench shares the challenges and joys of parenting his son Samuel, who has epilepsy and autism. The episode explores how Jacob and his wife support each other and prioritize time for their other children. Jacob also talks about his company, which offers genetic testing for preventative illness, and we discuss the ethical considerations surrounding the use of DNA analysis for family planning. Despite the challenges, Jacob reflects on the profound impact Samuel has had on their lives, considering him an enormous blessing. This episode offers a powerful exploration of the unique challenges and love that characterize Jacob's journey as a parent of a child with special needs.

About Jacob Moench

Jacob Moench is an entrepreneur in the medical industry devoted to preventative genetic testing. He is a devoted husband to his wife of 12 years. He and his wife have four beautiful children, including their oldest, Samuel, who has Autism and Epilepsy. Jacob enjoys playing with his children, basketball, hiking, piano, cooking, and creative writing.

Jacob's blog: https://fathertospecialneeds.blogspot.com/

Jacob's business: https://physiogenomic.com/

Contact Jacob

From This Episode

Finding Cooper's Voice

Forever Boy: A Mother's Memoir of Autism and Finding Joy

Mark Rober's Video about his autistic son

Steele's Army - Facebook page of an epilepsy family that Jacob recommends

Find and Follow Carole and Wisdom Shared:

• https://www.caroleblueweiss.com/
• Subscribe to my YouTube channel
• Follow me and send me a message on Facebook
• Follow me and send me a message on LinkedIn
• Follow me on Instagram
• Follow me on TikTok
• Follow me on Threads

The Wisdom Shared Team

• Audio Engineering by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works
• Production Assistant and Marketing Coordinator: Kayla Nelson
• Production Assistant: Becki Leigh

Episode Summary

In this episode, Lynn Greenberg and her son Jonathan, co-authors of Robby the Dyslexic Taxi and the Airport Adventure, share insights into Jon's journey with dyslexia. Emphasizing the transformative impact of education post-diagnosis, they discuss the power of creativity and the hidden gifts of neurodiversity. Jon, who views dyslexia as a superpower, aims, along with his mother, to inspire and empower neurodiverse children through their storytelling. This episode is a valuable resource for parents and teachers, offering insights and guidance for a more inclusive and understanding approach.

For the visually-minded who prefer to listen and read or for those who need closed captioning, watch the transcript video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/qYBVQJqdfo8

From This Episode

• Defining terms:
  • dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia
  • neurodiversity
• The Windward School
• The Orton Gillingham Approach

About Lynn and Jonathan

Lynn Greenberg is the happiest wife, mom, and grandma. A very retired attorney who loves to cook, exercise, and read, she has seen how positivity with feelings and differences can allow children to grow into happy, productive adults. During COVID-19, when many families were living together with an abundance of unscheduled free time, Lynn and her son Jonathan, who has dyslexia, began to work on the concepts and ideas for Robby. As ideas developed, they became increasingly invested in the character, his story, and the impact this endeavor could have on others.

Born with dyslexia, Jonathan Greenberg could not read and write like many other children his age. So, instead of giving in to frustration, Jonathan used his struggle as a catalyst for creativity, expressing his ideas through art. Having overcome his learning difficulty, Jonathan has fallen in love with reading. Robby the Dyslexic Taxi And The Airport Adventure exemplify Jonathan’s passion for writing and illustration. Together with Lynn, his mother, and his writing partner, they are already thinking of other stories featuring neurodiverse characters that complement this book.

Facebook: Creative Cab Co.

Instagram: @creativecabcompany

Website: robbythetaxi.com

Buy the Book:

Robby the Dyslexic Taxi and the Airport Adventure on Amazon

Robby the Dyslexic Taxi and the Airport Adventure on Bookshop.org

Find and Follow Carole and Wisdom Shared:

• https://www.caroleblueweiss.com/
• Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WisdomSharedCaroleBlueweiss
• Follow me and send me a message on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/caroleblueweiss
• Follow me and send me a message on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carole-blueweiss-pt-dpt-23970279/
• Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carole_blueweiss/

The Wisdom Shared Team

• Audio Engineering by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works
• Production Assistant and Marketing Coordinator: Kayla Nelson
• Production Assistant: Becki Leigh

Episode Summary

Join me as I welcome back Amy and her daughter, Lizzie, for an insightful discussion. In this episode, we delve into Lizzie's harrowing encounter with toxic shock syndrome (TSS), exploring the severe implications and her journey to recovery. Amy shares the critical moments that led to her life-saving discovery of Lizzie's condition and her quick response. We also discuss Lizzie's candid reflections on managing her menstrual health post-TSS, the challenges she faced during her recovery, and the significant changes in her life post-illness, including the recommendation to avoid tampon use. This episode serves as an eye-opener on the crucial aspects of TSS and menstrual health awareness.

For the visually-minded who prefer to listen and read or for those who need closed captioning, watch the transcript video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/F_rYxdV3Qwc

Resources

• WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT TOXIC SHOCK SYNDROME
• Removing the shame and stigma from menstruation
• 5 Things You Need to Know About Common Tampon Ingredients
• THE TAMPON: A HISTORY
• Sisters nearly die within days of each other after using 'super plus' tampons
• 5 Tampon Myths You Should NOT Believe
• https://www.twitch.tv/mamadoctorjones

Days for Girls

• Days for Girls
• Days for Girls Holiday Gift Guide
• Days for Girls NYC Chapter Instagram

Find and Follow Carole and Wisdom Shared:

• https://www.caroleblueweiss.com/
• Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WisdomSharedCaroleBlueweiss
• Follow me and send me a message on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/caroleblueweiss
• Follow me and send me a message on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carole-blueweiss-pt-dpt-23970279/
• Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carole_blueweiss/

The Wisdom Shared Team

• Audio Engineering by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works
• Production Assistant and Marketing Coordinator: Kayla Nelson

Episode Summary

Join us in a touching conversation with Amy and her daughter Lizzie as they share their experiences with 18-year-old Mathew, who was diagnosed with autism. Amy discusses the challenges of raising Mathew, including how eliminating certain food dyes helped reduce his aggressive behavior. Lizzie shares insights on being an older sister to a sibling with autism, highlighting the unique bond they share. This episode offers a candid look into a family's journey with autism, filled with challenges, love, and resilience.

For the visually-minded who prefer to listen and read or for those who need closed captioning, watch the transcript video here: https://youtu.be/NLxFbGl-0vY

Resources

• Dye-Free Kids Facebook Group
• Hidden Talents ABA
• Marcus.org
• Food Color and Autism: A Meta-Analysis
• Autism Spectrum Disorder: What Every Parent Needs to Know book
• The Impact of Artificial Food Dyes on Autism & ADHD
• Contact Amy: [email protected]

Find and Follow Carole and Wisdom Shared:

• https://www.caroleblueweiss.com/
• Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WisdomSharedCaroleBlueweiss
• Follow me and send me a message on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/caroleblueweiss
• Follow me and send me a message on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carole-blueweiss-pt-dpt-23970279/
• Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carole_blueweiss/

The Wisdom Shared Team

• Audio Engineering by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works
• Production Assistant and Marketing Coordinator: Kayla Nelson

EPISODE SUMMARY

This is a replay of a previously released episode, for Blindness Awareness Month. In this episode, we meet Josh Burch, a 48-year-old man who was born with Optic Nerve Hypoplasia. Josh talks about the challenges of growing up blind and shares how he navigates a world built for sighted people with the help of technology and his guide dog, Lou. We also hear more from Josh's stepmother, Julie Burch, and learn how they inspired and learned from each other, and how their relationship has changed over time.

Some learning gems from this episode: Don't pet a guide dog, (he or she needs to focus on guiding). Once out of harness, you can pet the dog; iPhones have an option called "VoiceOver" which anyone can use; If you meet a blind person, don't assume they need help, ask first; Do not spoon-feed or coddle people who are blind, they are like sighted people and just need more assistance; Support groups are great like Lighthouses for the Blind; Encourage independence and build confidence; Good manners, awareness of posture and exercise matters; Tough love sometimes requires patience but it beats sympathy.

For the visually-minded who prefer to listen and read or for those who need closed captioning, watch the transcript video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIy4DpLWE94

RESOURCES:

• Guiding Eyes for the Blind
• Rehabilitation Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired in Daytona, Florida
• JAWS, JobAccessWithSpeech screen reader tool
• Lighthouses for the Blind - local chapters can be found across the country
• iPhone accessibility features
• Optic Nerve Hypoplasia
• 8 Everyday Items Originally Invented for People With Disabilities

PEOPLE MENTIONED:

• Anne Sullivan

FIND AND FOLLOW JOSH:

• Josh Burch: [email protected]

FIND AND FOLLOW JULIE:

• Julie's Mindfulness Art Facebook Page
• Julie's Author Facebook page
• Julie's Author Website
• Subscribe to Julie's mailing list for information about upcoming books, nature, recipes, and life with Josh

EPISODE SUMMARY

This is a replay of a previously released episode, for Blindness Awareness Month. Julie Burch is an accomplished author (pen name: Juliet Brilee) and stepmother to Josh, who was born blind. Now 48 years old, he lives independently with his seeing-eye dog, Lou. In this episode, Julie shares what it was like to raise a blind child. She introduces us to how she helped Josh spatially map his environment, and talks about how the brain's map differs for people who have vision versus people with no vision. Julie is a mindfulness coach, and she emphasizes the importance of patience, embracing "failure," using tough love to support independence, and enhancing the senses through mindful practice.

For the visually-minded who prefer to listen and read or for those who need closed captioning, watch the transcript video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8PNWizDEn30

In the next episode, Dr. Blueweiss interviews Josh, who shares his perspective on life in a world built by sighted people.

FIND AND FOLLOW JULIE

Julie's Mindfulness Art Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/julieburch4art

Julie's Author Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/Jbrileeauthor

Julie's Author Website
https://julietbrilee.com/

Subscribe to Julie's mailing list for information about upcoming books, nature, recipes, and life with Josh.

Episode Summary

In part 2 of my conversation with retired FBI Special Agent Aaron Weeter, we learn more about life as an FBI agent. Aaron explains how he got started, what it was like to work on high-profile cases like 9/11, the DC Sniper, and January 6th, and how he ultimately specialized in drug-related crimes for most of his career. It was fascinating to learn about how Aaron and his colleagues used informants and undercover officers to take down doctors in the opioid epidemic.

Be sure to listen to the previous episode with Aaron to learn how the opioid epidemic of the 90s spread to become the fentanyl epidemic we have today: Retired FBI Agent Reflects On Opioid Crisis

For the visually-minded who prefer to listen and read or for those who need closed captioning, watch the transcript video here: https://youtu.be/sDVbaz9FHbM

Related Episodes

Retired FBI Agent Reflects On Opioid Crisis

Overdose Awareness: A Sister's Tribute

Addiction to Sobriety: A Mother's Journey

Anonymous Sister

Find and Follow Carole and Wisdom Shared:

• https://www.caroleblueweiss.com/
• Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WisdomSharedCaroleBlueweiss
• Follow me and send me a message on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/caroleblueweiss
• Follow me and send me a message on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroleblueweiss/
• Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carole_blueweiss/
• Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wisdom_shared

The Wisdom Shared Team

• Audio Engineering by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works
• Social Media and Marketing Coordinator: Kayla Nelson
• Production Intern: Cassidy Rozencwaig

Episode Summary

Since 1999, more than one million people have died from a drug overdose in the United States. On International Overdose Awareness Day, we reflect on these senseless preventable deaths. Today, we hear from previous Wisdom Shared guest Anne Pratt on the loss of her brother Daniel from an accidental overdose. May this powerful personal story help spread awareness and compassion for all those affected by the devastating impact of today's out of control epidemic.

Resources

How to use Narcan training video: https://www.anonymoussister.com/resources

Find Naloxone near you

Fentanyl Test Strips

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder, SAMHSA's (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP (4357), (also known as the Treatment Referral Routing Service) or TTY: 1-800-487-4889 is a confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year, information service, in English and Spanish, for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders. This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations. Callers can also order free publications and other information. You can also visit https://www.samhsa.gov.

Related Episodes

Addiction to Sobriety: A Mother's Journey

Anonymous Sister

Retired FBI Agent Reflects On Opioid Crisis

Anne's previous episode: A Mother Shares Her Journey of the Joys and Challenges of Raising a Child with Cerebral Palsy

The Wisdom Shared Team

• Audio Engineering by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works
• Social Media and Marketing Coordinator: Kayla Nelson
• Production Intern: Cassidy Rozencwaig

Find and Follow Carole and Wisdom Shared:

• https://www.caroleblueweiss.com/
• Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WisdomSharedCaroleBlueweiss
• Follow me and send me a message on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/caroleblueweiss
• Follow me and send me a message on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroleblueweiss/
• Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carole_blueweiss/
• Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wisdom_shared