Better To... Podcast with D. M. Needom D. M. Needom

I had the pleasure of sitting down with Chris to discuss some of his iconic photos and the stories behind them. 

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Over the past 50 years, Chris’ signature work with a galaxy of A-List actors, models, athletes and musicians has helped them define their public image while establishing his reputation as one of the most respected photographers in the entertainment industry.  Drawn to the excitement of music as a teenager growing up in Northern California, Chris began his career by shooting local rock shows for fun. He quickly graduated to headlining acts and, since moving to Los Angeles in the early 1980’s, has worked with a massive catalog of performers in the music and entertainment industry.  
He has shot the best of the best in the music world including ground-breaking bands like Jane’s Addiction, Pearl Jam, the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Nirvana, George Michael, Iggy Pop, No Doubt, Henry Rollins, Elvis Costello, Fiona Apple, Scott Weiland and Soundgarden.  These images have regularly appeared in Rolling Stone, Spin, RayGun, Vibe, Musician as well as on the covers of more than 300 record albums and CDs.
Along with his significant commercial and editorial contributions as a music photographer, Chris’ portfolio also includes an equally impressive group of A-list actors from Johnny Depp to Dustin Hoffman, sports icons from Kobe Bryant to Wayne Gretzky, and television shows from American Idol to So You Think You Can Dance.  His images have been in Entertainment Weekly, US, Stuff, Maxim, Premiere, British Elle and W. 
In the last few years Chris has presented multiple exhibitions celebrating his iconic music photography.  He started with Greatest Hits: Los Angeles and then followed up with GH: Martini Ranch, GH: George Michael, GH: Grunge, GH: Pearl Jam and GH: Michael Hutchence.  He is currently working on his Greatest Hits documentary and expanding the exhibition worldwide.
His natural talent, versatility and tireless pursuit of artistic expression continue to grow no matter the medium.  “Regardless of what I’ve been able to accomplish in the past, there are always new mountains to climb and new borders to cross,” Chris explains. “I’m excited by where I’m going and what lies ahead… by the journey as well as the destination.”

Website: https://www.chriscuffaro.com/
Photo Website: https://cuffarophoto.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecuffarophoto/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZ6qTnhssn2OgCKcQb9J8ww

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If you would like to contact the show about being a guest please email us at Dauna@betertopodcast.com
This episode is on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VZhkYCBBkko
Follow us on Social Media
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Have a question or want to be a guest on the podcast email: dauna@bettertopodcast.com

Have a question for our producer Rich Zei contact him at rich.zei@thirdearaudio.com
Intro and Outro music compliments of Fast Suzi
To see upcoming guests click here: https://www.dmneedom.com/better-topodcast

©2024 Better To...Podcast with D. M.Needom




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Mick sits down to discuss his latest release Ian Hunter on Track as well as his fiction book, Burning America: In The Best Interest of the Children?  We also discuss the music business as well as radio.
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Dive into the musical universe of solo Ian Hunter songs like never before with "Ian Hunter On Track"! Calling all rock aficionados and die-hard fans of Mott The Hoople's legendary frontman. This is the ultimate backstage pass you've been waiting for. Unlock the secrets behind every lyric, riff, and melody in this one-of-a-kind musical journey. From the soul-stirring anthems that defined an era to the hidden gems that eluded the spotlight, "Ian Hunter On Track" leaves no chord unheard. Immerse yourself in the evolution of a songwriter extraordinaire, as you explore the stories, inspirations, and creative genius that brought these songs to life. With a mix of anecdotes, in-depth analyses, and a touch of rockstar charisma, this book isn't just a collection of pages, it's a front-row seat to Hunter's musical legacy. Whether you've been inspired by "All The Young Dudes" since its debut, “Once Bitten Twice Shy,” “Cleveland Rocks” or you're just discovering the magic of "Defiance Part 1" this masterpiece is a must-have addition to your collection. Crank up the volume to a sonic journey through the soundtrack of your life. Dive deeply into the heart and soul of Hunter's unparalleled musical voyage.
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If you would like to contact the show about being a guest please email us at Dauna@betertopodcast.com
Follow us on Social Media
This episode is on YouTube:https://youtu.be/LBhW0Rq26PY
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_d.m.needom/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom
Have a question or want to be a guest on the podcast email: dauna@bettertopodcast.com

Have a question for our producer Rich Zei contact him at rich.zei@thirdearaudio.com
Intro and Outro music compliments of Fast Suzi
To see upcoming guests click here: https://www.dmneedom.com/better-topodcast

©2024 Better To...Podcast with D. M.Needom






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JD and I sit down and talk about music, dance, modeling, and even acting.

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JD Reynolds is an artist in the truest sense of the word.

The world of country music is paying attention to Australian country music artist JD Reynolds. Her latest release '8 Seconds' hit the highly coveted #1 spot on Australian Country Radio during 2023 Grammy week. For a 100% independent artist, that's truly something. Just wait until the world hears her upcoming release called ‘A Little Piece of Your Heart’.
 
The incredible singer, songwriter, producer, and award-winning choreographer has achieved international acclaim with her fresh twist on country music. The world of Professional Bull Riding all around the globe from Australia, USA, and Canada to Brazil embraced her powerful song ‘8 Seconds’. So much so, within 24 hours of The Australian PBR announcing JD was performing LIVE at the PBR Monster Energy K Ranch Invitational, the event SOLD OUT with fans clamoring to get a ticket, some fans paid $400 for a scalpers ticket just to see JD Reynolds. It was the only PBR SOLD OUT event in 2022.
 
JD has graced the cover of Nashville Country Music Magazine and the glossy pages of Cowboys & Indians Magazine, being labeled “Country’s new ‘it’ girl”. For a new artist, JD has millions of combined song streams with smash hits such as 'Whatever' and 'Rebound'. JD's girl-power anthem 'WHATEVER' hit #5 on KIX Hottest 20 and #8 on the Australian Country Music Charts AND made the Hottest 50 songs of 2021. ‘Whatever’ caused such a stir that the music video premiered on Country Rebel to over 8 million viewers.
 
JD Reynolds creates a buzz in country music that has the likes of the biggest US media outlets such as NEWSMAX, Country Rebel, and Guitar Girl Magazine all wanting to know who the country’s new ‘it’ girl is and what inspires her fresh twist on the country which already has its own country genre, “The JD Sound”. Speaking with JD LIVE with over 3 million viewers in New York, NEWSMAX told JD she has “a lot of folk’s attention” and congratulated her on being a "major player in terms of music”. And they are spot on.​

As a trained dancer and award-winning choreographer, JD needs to dance her own moves as well as sing her own words and melodies. “Dance is a part of who I am, for me, dance is an expression of the soul, expressing what words simply cannot”. The three together have been described as “cutting-edge visual poetry.”

Captivating those who hear her and mesmerizing those who see her, JD knows how to make Country sound great and look even better.
 
Website: https://www.jdreynoldsofficial.com
If you would like to contact the show about being a guest please email us at Dauna@betertopodcast.com
Follow us on Social Media
This episode is on YouTube: https://youtu.be/tVGIcbz7DXQ
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_d.m.needom/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom
Have a question or want to be a guest on the podcast email: dauna@bettertopodcast.com

Have a question for our producer Rich Zei contact him at rich.zei@thirdearaudio.com
Intro and Outro music compliments of Fast Suzi
To see upcoming guests click here: https://www.dmneedom.com/better-topodcast

©2024 Better To...Podcast with D. M.Needom
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Edward joins the show to discuss his novel, his experience in the Space Shuttle Simulator, and what would really happen if some of our fears came to light.

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Before taking the plunge in 2004 into full-time writing, technologist turned author Edward M. Lerner spent thirty years in high tech at every level from engineer to senior vice president. Many novels later, he’s glad (and still just slightly surprised) that he leaped.
He worked at such techie havens as Bell Labs, Hughes Aircraft, and Northrop Grumman—and at a long-gone start-up of which you’ve likely never heard. He delivered high-tech products and systems to government agencies (including NASA, the FBI, and the Defense Department) and commercial customers as varied as AT&T and McDonald’s. Along the way, he visited a satellite factory, flew the space shuttle training simulator, wandered about the space station trainer, and watched a space shuttle launch. Sooner or later, all that experience shows up in his fiction.
Lerner’s novels run the gamut from technothrillers like Energized (solar-power satellites), Small Miracles (medical nanotech), and Fools’ Experiments (AI) to traditional science fiction, like Dark Secret and his InterstellarNet series, to (with NY Times bestselling author Larry Niven) the space epic Fleet of Worlds series. Ed’s fiction has been nominated for Hugo, Prometheus, and Locus awards, and won the inaugural Canopus Award.
Ed’s short fiction has appeared in major science fiction magazines, anthologies, and collections. His short story “Grandpa?” became the award-winning short film “The Grandfather Paradox.”
He also writes nonfiction, most notably Trope-ing the Light Fantastic: The Science Behind the Fiction. He also teaches the occasional writing class, blogs regularly on the state of science and SF. He has spoken at, among venues, the Library of Congress and the US Naval Academy. His fiction has been translated into ten languages.
The varied career(s) didn’t just happen: Ed’s education is almost as eclectic, with degrees in physics, computer science, and business.
Lerner is a member of the Science-fiction and Fantasy Writers of America (SFWA), the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), and  SIGMA (not an acronym, and sometimes known as “The Science Fiction Think Tank”).
Lerner was born in Chicago and has lived in Illinois, New Jersey, and New York. He now resides in Virginia.
His blog, SF and Nonsense, can be found at https://blog.edwardmlerner.com/
website: https://edwardmlerner.com

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If you would like to contact the show about being a guest please email us at Dauna@betertopodcast.com
Follow us on Social Media
This episode is on YouTube: https://youtu.be/DHKlniUkT8g
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_d.m.needom/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom
Have a question or want to be a guest on the podcast email: dauna@bettertopodcast.com

Have a question for our producer Rich Zei contact him at rich.zei@thirdearaudio.com
Intro and Outro music compliments of Fast Suzi
To see upcoming guests click here: https://www.dmneedom.com/better-topodcast

©2024 Better To...Podcast with D. M.Needom
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John stops by the podcast to discuss his latest release to talk about his new movie, Ebony Hustle 2: Ballistic Protection, but we discuss so much more. 
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John Wayne S. III (JW) is a consummate storyteller, producer, and director, boasting an illustrious career in the entertainment industry over two decades. His unique blend of film and music expertise has endowed him with an exceptional ability to craft narratives that captivate audiences.
JW's venture into the entertainment world began modestly as a production assistant on George Tillman's debut film, "Scenes for the Soul." This early exposure ignited his passion for filmmaking, setting the foundation for a remarkable career path.
Fueled by relentless ambition, JW seized an opportunity to collaborate with Grammy-nominated producer Steve "Silk" Hurley. Initially serving as a publicist, JW's unwavering commitment and innate talent quickly elevated him to Director of International A&R. In this capacity, he managed agent teams across the United Kingdom and Japan, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the global music landscape.
Returning to his roots in media production, JW founded his production company, channeling his wisdom and expertise into bringing compelling narratives to life. His portfolio includes an impressive collection of 200 music videos for esteemed domestic and international artists. Furthermore, JW's success extends to the production of five feature films: "Red All Over," "Ebony Hustle," "Plugged," "False Profit," and "Ebony Hustle Ballistic Protection," solidifying his position as a commanding force in the industry.
With a wealth of experience, unwavering passion, and an uncompromising dedication to excellence, JW continuously pushes creative boundaries, consistently delivering top-tier storytelling with universal resonance. 
Website: https://beacons.ai/londyntownpictures
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If you would like to contact the show about being a guest please email us at Dauna@betertopodcast.com
Follow us on Social Media
This episode is on YouTube: https://youtu.be/cxhvmux3z0I
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_d.m.needom/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom
Have a question or want to be a guest on the podcast email: dauna@bettertopodcast.com

Have a question for our producer Rich Zei contact him at rich.zei@thirdearaudio.com
Intro and Outro music compliments of Fast Suzi
To see upcoming guests click here: https://www.dmneedom.com/better-topodcast

©2024 Better To...Podcast with D. M.Needom
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Presley discusses her musical journey, the importance of loyalty in her relationships, and so much more.
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Radiant and fearless, Presley Tennant is the result of unequivocal talent and California ease. Dubbed a “vocal powerhouse” by Taste of Country, People Magazine states Presley is “quickly proving that she is a wild card in the country music industry.”

Rooted in the classics, the Horsetown, USA (aka Norco, CA) native immersed herself in Country Music following her national appearance on The Voice at just 16 years old. Determined to make her own way in the industry, Tennant teamed up with some of the industry’s top creatives to produce her own version of California-Country, melding together Western lifestyle, her unparalleled powerhouse vocals, traditional roots, and modern energy.

Filled with uncompromising integrity, the ‘it’ factor, and a dream, it’s no surprise Presley has shared the stage with musical heroes Tim Mcgraw, Kelly Clarkson, Carly Pearce, Blake Shelton, and more. Not only is she immensely talented. She has a heart of gold, donating her time to animal organizations through her Riffs & Rescues virtual charity tour, where she performs live and raises awareness and funds for various animal initiatives.

Website: https://www.presleytennant.com
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If you would like to contact the show about being a guest please email us at Dauna@betertopodcast.com
Follow us on Social Media
This episode is on YouTube:https://youtu.be/eH0Bv096zjQ
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_d.m.needom/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom
Have a question or want to be a guest on the podcast email: dauna@bettertopodcast.com

Have a question for our producer Rich Zei contact him at rich.zei@thirdearaudio.com
Intro and Outro music compliments of Fast Suzi
To see upcoming guests click here: https://www.dmneedom.com/better-topodcast

©2024 Better To...Podcast with D. M.Needom



Support the Show.