A Mick A Mook and A Mic

Billy O'Connor and Frank Pace
  • 5.0 (7)
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Billy O'Connor Vietnam Veteran, retired New York City Firefighter and Frank Pace (TV producer) who has produced more than 700 episodes of network television, discuss their fascinating journeys through life with combined experience of over 140 years. Both have Co-Authored 3 Books together with the first publication of their collaboration "If These Lips Could Talk" released in September 2020. Billy and Frank take you through their vast knowledge of the world and the people they have encountered. Join them in a weekly jaunt through the past while analyzing current events while solving the worlds problems with comedic banter and wise insight.

  1. JAN 28

    Faith Ford - 5x Emmy Award Nominee for her role on Murphy Brown, co-star Hope & Faith - Episode #65

    The October 13th episode of A Mick A Mook and A Mic will feature multi-talented actress, Faith Ford. Faith is a recipient of five Emmy Award nominations and two Golden Globe Award nominations for eleven season portrayal of reporter ‘Corky Sherwood’ on the CBS series “Murphy Brown.”  She also starred in the ABC hit comedy series “Hope & Faith” with Kelly Ripa for three seasons and later on “Norn” opposite Norm Mc Donald and Laurie Metcalf.   Ford has a wide range of guest starring roles, from “My Name is Earl”, “Criminal Minds” to “The Middle” and also co-starred opposite Vin Diesel in Touchstone Pictures’ “The Pacifier,” and “Prom.”  Faith has also starred in several TV movies, ABC Family’s “Mom’s on Strike”, NBC/Walmart movie “Field of Vision”, Hallmark movies, “A Kiss at Midnight”, “Trading Christmas” and “The Bridge 1 and 2” along with Lifetime movies, “Sorority Wars” and 2017′ “Christmas in Mississippi.”  In addition to her highly successful acting career, Ford made her writing debut in 2004 with an exciting cookbook, “Cooking With Faith”, co-written with Melissa Clark. This ‘southern cookbook’ draws on Ford’s childhood in Louisiana. Faith was raised in Pineville, Louisiana. In high school, she acted in school plays, and in her senior year she was a finalist in Teen Magazine’s annual model search. Faith moved to New York City when she was 17, where she worked in commercials, took acting classes, and did some modeling. At the age of 18, she landed a role on the soap “Another World,” and later “One Life to Live.”  This is an episode you won’t want to miss, so be sure to join Mick and Mook on 13-October and meet the talented Faith Ford.

    1h 26m

  2. 12/31/2025

    Reflections on 2025 (Movie Industry, Politics, Fighting) - What's to Come in 2026 Ep. #191

    In this conversation, the hosts reflect on the past year, discuss the potential impacts of the Warner Brothers merger, and explore the evolution of the entertainment industry towards streaming. They touch on the possibility of strikes in the industry, the influence of their podcast, and delve into current events, including the Epstein files and political commentary. The discussion also covers the state of movie scripts, family dynamics, and upcoming movies, providing a comprehensive overview of the entertainment landscape. In this engaging conversation, the hosts delve into various topics ranging from the changing landscape of movie deals and the impact of streaming on residuals, to personal reflections on sobriety and the controversies surrounding the Baseball Hall of Fame. They also discuss the influence of gambling in sports, political accomplishments, and the evolving state of modern television and film. The dialogue is filled with humor, personal anecdotes, and critical insights, making it a rich exploration of contemporary issues in entertainment and society. Takeaways The year has been challenging, and there's hope for a better future. The Warner Brothers merger may not have immediate effects on employees. Television is shifting towards smaller screens and streaming platforms. The movie industry is facing significant changes and challenges. Potential strikes in the entertainment industry could arise soon. The podcast has a significant influence and a large audience. The Epstein files reveal ongoing political corruption. Cultural commentary often blends humor with serious topics. The entertainment industry is experiencing a dumbing down of scripts. Upcoming movies reflect changing tastes and industry dynamics. Back-end deals in movies are declining due to streaming. Streamers often do not pay residuals to creators. Public companies can keep actor salaries private. Modern cars have complex technology that can be overwhelming. Personal experiences with alcohol can lead to sobriety. The Baseball Hall of Fame has ongoing controversies regarding eligibility. Gambling is increasingly influencing sports outcomes. Political discussions can highlight both achievements and failures. Television shows reflect current societal issues and trends. The entertainment industry is evolving with new technologies. Chapters 00:00 The Future of Television and Streaming 04:57 Strikes and Industry Changes 07:11 The Epstein Files and Public Perception 10:01 The Nature of Scandals and Corruption 12:07 Financial Implications of Scandals 13:38 The Drug Crisis and Political Narratives 18:35 The Dumbing Down of Cinema 21:09 The Tragedy of Family Dynamics 30:14 Upcoming Movies and Industry Insights 30:57 The Legacy of the ABA 32:58 The Evolution of Cinema and Technology 36:59 The Changing Landscape of Movie Salaries 39:53 The Impact of Technology on Daily Life 45:46 Reflections on Alcohol and Personal Stories 51:53 Controversies in Sports Hall of Fame Inductions 54:21 Baseball Hall of Fame Controversies 54:52 Gambling in Sports: A Double-Edged Sword 56:37 The Impact of Money on Player Integrity 57:59 Steroids and Their Legacy in Baseball 59:17 Cultural References and Humor in Sports 59:55 Television Shows and Their Influence 01:04:00 Political Discussions: Trump’s Accomplishments 01:05:36 The Entertainment Industry: Movies and Politics

    1h 15m

  3. 12/10/2025

    Actor and Professional Baker - Paul Cassell Ep. #190

    In this engaging conversation, Paul Cassell, an actor and professional baker, shares insights into his dual career, the impact of the economy and COVID-19 on small businesses, and the importance of having alternate sources of income. The discussion also touches on the changing landscape of the entertainment industry, celebrity endorsements, and the significance of creative outlets for artists.

    55 min

  4. 11/19/2025

    TONY CONZA; Founder of Blimpie's Sandwich's. Ep. # 189

    TONY CONZA;  Founder of Blimpie's Sandwich's.  Founded in 1964 in Hoboken, NJ, company grew to 2,000 stores before Tony sold Blimpie in 2002. Summary In this engaging conversation, the hosts discuss a variety of topics ranging from political sentiments surrounding recent elections to the entrepreneurial journey of Tony Conza, founder of Blimpie. The discussion highlights the importance of passion in business, the challenges of managing franchises, and personal anecdotes that reflect on success and life lessons. Tony shares insights from his early career, the growth of Blimpie, and the significance of maintaining quality and consistency in the food industry.

    57 min

  5. 10/08/2025

    Behind the Plate with Joe West: Umpiring Insights Ep. #188

    The Future of Umpiring: Technology and TraditionSummary In this engaging conversation, Joe West, a legendary baseball umpire, shares his experiences and insights on the role of umpires in baseball, the impact of technology, and the future of the game. The discussion covers various topics, including the introduction of automatic umpires, memorable moments in umpiring history, and the relationship between players and umpires. The conversation also touches on the growing concern of gambling in sports and the recent Ryder Cup controversy, providing a comprehensive look at the current state of baseball and its evolving dynamics. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Banter 02:05 Joe West's Golfing Experience and Humor 04:57 The Role of Umpires and Automatic Strike Zones 07:57 Debate on Umpire Accuracy and Technology 10:59 Playoff Rules and Historical Context 13:44 Reflections on Umpiring and Career Highlights 28:09 Humorous Anecdotes in Sports 29:17 The Impact of Shohei Ohtani 33:59 World Series Predictions and Team Dynamics 35:44 The Gambling Culture in Sports 46:26 Joe West's Career Highlights and Memorable Moments 51:17 Baseball Insights: Pitching and Strategy 54:08 The Evolution of the DH Rule 57:52 Umpiring Techniques and Observations 01:00:31 Cheating in Baseball: Scuffing and Strategy 01:04:17 The Value of Game Balls and Fan Engagement 01:08:26 Golf and Sportsmanship: Reflections on the Ryder Cup

    1h 11m

  6. 09/10/2025

    Djordje Mihailovic – 2024 US Olympic Team Soccer Star. Has made 11 appearances for US National Nat’l Team. Dynamic starting CMF for Toronto FC. Ep# 187

    Djordje Mihailovic: (pron- Georgie) – 2024 US Olympic Team Soccer Star. Has made 11 appearances for US National Nat’l Team. Dynamic starting CMF for Toronto FC.Summary This conversation features a blend of light-hearted banter and deep insights into the world of soccer, particularly focusing on Georgie Mihailovic's journey as a professional athlete. The discussion touches on personal stories, the importance of mentorship, and the emotional weight of representing one's country in sports. The hosts share anecdotes, technical aspects of soccer, and the challenges faced by athletes, creating a rich tapestry of experiences that resonate with both sports enthusiasts and casual listeners. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the journey of a professional soccer player, exploring themes of transition, personal growth, and the physical and mental demands of the sport. They discuss the cultural differences in soccer between the U.S. and other countries, the future of American soccer, and the importance of resilience and competitive spirit in achieving success. The conversation is enriched with personal anecdotes and reflections on the challenges faced by players both on and off the field. Chapters 00:00 Technical Difficulties and Introductions 00:25 Anticipation for Georgie Mihailovic's Appearance 07:47 Introduction of Georgie 09:01 Understanding Designated Players in MLS 10:32 Georgie's Upbringing and Family Influence 16:02 Overcoming Injuries and Finding Confidence 22:01 Learning from Legends: Bastian Schweinsteiger 27:55 Olympic Dreams and National Pride 31:56 The Pressure of Scoring in High-Stakes Situations 37:32 Intuitive Play and Transitioning Teams 38:28 Life in Toronto: A New Chapter 39:58 Preparing for the Off-Season 42:54 The Physical Toll of Soccer 44:48 The Journey of a Player: From Academy to Pro 49:21 Mental Resilience in Competitive Sports 55:22 Cultural Differences in Soccer Development 58:21 The Impact of Organized Play on Talent 01:02:30 The Competitive Spirit: Beyond the Field 01:07:13 Future Plans and Personal Connections 01:07:45 Reflections on Life and Aging 01:08:55 Humor and Life Lessons 01:11:51 Networking and Opportunities 01:13:18 Creative Fundraising Ideas 01:14:14 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

    1h 23m

  7. 07/02/2025

    LAURA ROCKWOOD: Retired Gen. Counsel for Vienna’s International Atomic Energy Agency. Expert on Iranian nuclear capabilities.

    LAURA ROCKWOOD: Retired Gen. Counsel for Vienna’s International Atomic Energy Agency. Expert on Iranian nuclear capabilities.Summary In this conversation, Laura Rockwood, a former senior legal advisor at the IAEA, shares her extensive experience in nuclear nonproliferation, particularly in relation to Iran and Iraq. The discussion covers the complexities of negotiating in the Middle East, the challenges of verifying nuclear capabilities, and the impact of false intelligence on the Iraq War. Rockwood emphasizes the importance of diplomacy in addressing nuclear threats and the need for a collective approach to global stability. The conversation also touches on the moral implications of military actions against nuclear facilities and the role of leadership in shaping public sentiment and international relations. Takeaways Laura Rockwood has over 40 years of experience in nuclear nonproliferation. Negotiating in the Middle East can be challenging, but gender does not hinder respect. The IAEA's role is to verify, not prevent, nuclear weapons development. False intelligence significantly impacted the justification for the Iraq War. Iran's nuclear program is complex and requires careful monitoring. Diplomacy is essential for resolving nuclear tensions and conflicts. Military actions against nuclear facilities raise moral and legal questions. The Non-Proliferation Treaty aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons. Public sentiment can be influenced by leadership decisions and actions. Addressing root causes of instability is crucial for global peace. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setup 01:06 The Aftermath of the Iraq War and Intelligence Failures 02:29 Navigating Nuclear Inspections in Iraq 04:56 The IAEA's Role and False Intelligence 06:28 Technical Challenges and Communication Issues 06:46 Revisiting Iraq: Inspections and Cooperation 08:29 The U.S. Justification for War 10:29 The Impact of Forgeries on Intelligence 12:06 Understanding Enrichment and Transportation 12:41 Historical Context of Iran's Nuclear Ambitions 14:29 The Role of the JCPOA in Iran's Nuclear Strategy 16:39 Diplomatic Solutions and Future Negotiations 18:24 The Morality of Military Action 20:33 The Global Nuclear Landscape 22:20 The Influence of Domestic Politics on Foreign Policy 24:20 The Threat of Non-State Actors 26:31 The Future of Nuclear Proliferation 28:22 The Role of the NPT and Global Governance 30:23 The Impact of U.S. Foreign Policy on Global Stability 32:38 The Complexity of International Relations 34:28 The Role of Leadership in Nuclear Decisions 36:18 The Importance of Diplomacy 38:28 The Human Cost of War 40:24 The Technical Aspects of Nuclear Weapons 42:25 The Future of U.S.-Iran Relations 44:22 The Role of Public Perception in Policy 46:19 The Intersection of Politics and Nuclear Strategy 48:11 The Human Element in Nuclear Proliferation 50:16 The Legacy of Nuclear Weapons 52:29 The Future of Global Security 54:11 The Path Forward for Nuclear Non-Proliferation Sound Bites "I have never felt disrespected by..." "We reported that to the Security Council..." "Iraq never reached that stage."

    1h 16m

  8. 06/18/2025

    Behind the Plate with Joe West - Ep. #185

    Summary In this engaging conversation, Joe West, a retired MLB umpire, shares his experiences and insights on various topics, including the impact of media on public perception, the complexities of immigration policies, and the integrity of sports. The discussion also touches on personal anecdotes from military service, the role of law enforcement, and reflections on leadership and governance. Joe's unique perspective as a public figure provides a thought-provoking exploration of contemporary issues. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into various topics ranging from the intersection of business and crime, particularly in the context of sports and gambling, to the ongoing mystery surrounding Jimmy Hoffa. They discuss the evolution of umpiring in Major League Baseball, the impact of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals on college sports, and the future of minor league baseball. Personal anecdotes and humorous exchanges add a light-hearted touch to the serious discussions, making for an entertaining and insightful dialogue. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Light Banter 00:24 Military Stories and Personal Experiences 03:09 Immigration and the American Dream 06:12 Media Narratives and Public Perception 09:15 Political Commentary and Current Events 12:18 The Role of Law Enforcement and Community Safety 15:04 Reflections on Citizenship and Military Service 18:13 Sports, Fame, and Legacy 21:07 Humor and Personal Anecdotes 26:47 Ego and Leadership: The Case of Trump 28:10 Political Genius or Tragic Flaw? 29:41 The Role of Media in Politics 32:56 The American Dream: From Poverty to Wealth 38:22 COVID-19 and Political Accountability 41:23 The Military Industrial Complex and Regime Change 42:14 Reflections on Umpiring and Labor Relations 52:41 The Faceless Umpire: Joe West's Legacy 54:29 Record-Breaking Performances and College Sports 56:36 The Changing Landscape of College Athletics 59:06 NIL Deals and Player Rights 01:02:52 The Future of Minor League Baseball 01:05:30 Travel Tales and Personal Stories 01:14:45 The Journey of Joe West: From Umpire to Musician 01:14:46 Behind the Plate: Umpiring in Major League Baseball

    1h 16m
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Billy O'Connor Vietnam Veteran, retired New York City Firefighter and Frank Pace (TV producer) who has produced more than 700 episodes of network television, discuss their fascinating journeys through life with combined experience of over 140 years. Both have Co-Authored 3 Books together with the first publication of their collaboration "If These Lips Could Talk" released in September 2020. Billy and Frank take you through their vast knowledge of the world and the people they have encountered. Join them in a weekly jaunt through the past while analyzing current events while solving the worlds problems with comedic banter and wise insight.

Information

  • Creator
    Billy O'Connor and Frank Pace
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    197
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 A Mick A Mook and A Mic
  • Show Website
    A Mick A Mook and A Mic