The Heart of the Matter

In this episode, I’m with my co-host, Dr. Vicki Atkinson, and musician, writer, blogger, and retired educator, Todd Fulginiti talking about the great new music he’s recorded and released as Jazz on King, volume 1. Centered on the ongoing gig he has with his two fellow musicians, Dave Winter and Dave Santana, Todd talks about the recording process – the low-stress way they recorded it for themselves. Then the step away they took from the project after recording it, and now the release.

We find out what it’s like to have music as a family affair since Todd’s daughters, Bailey and Ally both contributed to this album and collaborate with him on their yearly music project to raise money for a good cause.

Having an interested curator of our art is always so helpful so we learn about Bill Speakman, the manager of the live venue where the Fulginiti trio plays bi-weekly. And then Bill also comes in as a sort of producer of this album.

Because Todd is multi-talented and can write as well as he plays, we dig into the blog post he wrote about finding his way to the style of music that he likes to play after years of both practicing and teaching music. He’s built on what he learned from his father-in-law to hone a style where less is more. I know you’ll be as fascinated and inspired by Todd, and his less notes and more space style as Vicki and I were.

We talk about the particulars of trying to make money as a musician, especially in the digital streaming era. Todd fills us in on what licensing and formats require and how that dove-tails with performing live.

This is a great episode about great music and the interesting and complex choice creatives have to make when releasing their art to the world. We know you’ll love it!

After you’ve listened, here’s a page on Todd’s site to leave feedback on his music for album reviews

Episode 130: Take Me Back to Chicago with Doug E. Jones – Sharing the Heart of the Matter

In this episode of the podcast, Wynne Leon and Vicki Atkinson engage with novelist Doug E. Jones about Take Me Back to Chicago. Our conversation delves into the rich tapestry of 1974 Chicago, exploring the characters, music, and personal connections that shape the narrative. Doug also shares insights into his transition from TV writing as a writer for the tv show Charmed (and more) to novel writing. We also talk about the thematic elements of his work, and the humor that permeates his storytelling. The episode highlights the importance of character dynamics and the personal experiences that inform Doug's writing, making it a delightful exploration of both the book and the author's journey.TakeawaysDoug E. Jones’s novel is set in 1974 Chicago, rich with cultural references.The protagonist, Rick, faces a significant debt left by his father.The book features strong female characters, including Rick’s daughter Elena.Doug’s writing process involves integrating real Chicago characters and events.The transition from TV writing to novel writing was liberating for Doug.Music plays a crucial role in setting the tone of the story.The character dynamics between Rick and his friend Javi add humor and depth.Historical context is woven into the narrative, enhancing the story’s richness.Doug’s personal experiences influence the characters and settings in his novels.The book is described as a ‘beach read’—entertaining and engaging.Heads up! This is an episode that has already aired on the How to Share podcast so you may have already listened to it.Links for this episode:How to Share1970’s Chicago transcriptTake Me Back to Chicago by Doug E. Jones on Eckhartz PressQ&A with Take Me Back to Chicago author Doug E. JonesFrom the Hosts:Vicki’s book about resilience and love: Surviving Sue; Blog: https://victoriaponders.com/Wynne's book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith; Blog: https://wynneleon.com

1. Episode 130: Take Me Back to Chicago with Doug E. Jones 28:12
2. Episode 129: Wish I Was Here with Ilsa Rey 31:47
3. Episode 128: This is Your Body on Trauma with Meg Bowman 43:10
4. Episode 127: King Copper with Lauren Scott 29:16
5. Episode 126: Cherry Whip with Michael Antman 35:50

Search (and subscribe!) for Sharing the Heart of the Matter on Apple, Amazon, Spotify or Pocket Casts OR Listen on Anchor Episode 38: Jazz on King with Todd Fulginiti

Links for this Episode:

If you want to be on the podcast, or have additional guests to suggest, please email us at sharingtheheartofthematter@gmail.com

Listen on Anchor Episode 38: Jazz on King with Todd Fulginiti

Todd site where you can listen to the album and find out more: Todd Fulginiti Music (You can also listen to the album on Spotify, Amazon Music and Apple)

The album review page: Jazz on King Vol. 1 Album Reviews

Todd’s Wise and Shine post about the album release: My New Album Releases Today!

Todd’s Wise & Shine post about finding his playing style: Why Did I Say That?