Welcome to Poduty and the News for Monday, July 14th, 2025! Hosted by Jeff Revilla, this episode is packed with incredible stories from the world of live podcasting. We’re taking you behind the scenes of six standout events featuring UFC champs, big-name media personalities, podcast comebacks, trailblazing athletes, and Hollywood's movers and shakers. Whether you’re into sports, entertainment, or media, this episode is proof that the future of news and storytelling is LIVE and LOUD on stage!Want to livestream and record podcasts like we do?  Check out these links and build your empire!Transistor FM - for podcast hostinghttps://transistor.fm/?via=podutyCastmagic - to make written content from your audio podcasthttps://get.castmagic.io/ugp958dba02xStreamyard - for livestreaming and recording podcast episodeshttps://streamyard.com/pal/c/6282618417446912Here's what you'll get in today’s episode:How Kayla Harrison brought UFC glory home to Middleton with a live podcast tapingSource: WDTN Newshttps://www.wdtn.com/news/local-news/middletowns-kayla-harrison-to-get-hometown-celebration/The Cascade PBS Ideas Festival shaking up Seattle with bold conversations and big namesSource: Cascade PBShttps://www.cascadepbs.org/news/2025/07/the-newsfeed-a-look-back-at-the-2025-cascade-pbs-ideas-festival/The Big Party Show’s epic return from FM radio to podcasting superstardom in OmahaSource: 3 News Nowhttps://www.3newsnow.com/rebound/positively-the-heartland/radio-to-podcasting-omahas-big-party-and-molly-cavanaugh-thrive-in-new-spaceKeke Palmer’s empowering Essence Festival podcast taping—and her surprise movie reveal!Source: Global Grindhttps://globalgrind.com/6855330/keke-palmer-essence-fest-pickup-teaser/Trail legend Kilian Jornet’s ultra-inspiring TrailCon podcast eventSource: The Freetrail Podcasthttps://thewellwithdylanbowman.libsyn.com/the-three-faces-of-kilian-jornet-trailcon-live-podcastHollywood’s hottest industry secrets unveiled at the NAACP’s Be in the Biz Symposium in CharlotteSource: Q City Metrohttps://qcitymetro.com/2025/07/11/naacp-hollywood-bureau-symposium/Don’t miss these powerful moments, advice for creators, and inspiration for anyone looking to jump into live podcasting!⭐️ For more podcast news and live event coverage, visit: https://news.poduty.comSee upcoming events at our Podcast Theater at:https://poduty.com

In an episode packed with humor, heart, and a dash of Vegas mischief, Andy Dietrich took the spotlight as the featured guest on the popular podcast “My Guest Tonight,” hosted by Jeff Revilla. Dietrich, a self-proclaimed “veteran immigrant storyteller,” shared an extraordinary journey from the small villages of Germany to the icy expanse of Alaska, eventually landing amid the neon glow of Las Vegas—collecting a treasure trove of bizarre adventures and offbeat wisdom along the way.Revilla kicked off the show with a custom-made musical introduction, which set the energetic tone for the conversation. Dietrich, delighted by the personalized theme song, dove into tales of his teenage immigration to the U.S., his years cracking eggs at the northernmost Denny’s in the world, and his time serving as a U.S. Marine with enviably “cushy” postings.No story was too strange for this guest: Dietrich vividly recalled braving swarms of Alaskan mosquitoes, running a booming business forging nightclub stamps for underage partygoers in Vegas, and, in a particularly memorable moment, mistakenly believing he ate a bartender’s dinner while under the influence of THC pills.Beyond the laughs, Dietrich’s candidness also shone through as he discussed the lessons and self-discoveries that came from assembling his memoir, “Play Stupid Games, Win Stupid Prizes.” The book—part wild tales, part introspective advice—encapsulates decades’ worth of misadventures and moments of growth, revealing Dietrich not just as a prankster, but a thinker keen on finding meaning through experience.Revilla and Dietrich’s rapport gave plenty of space for reflections on regret, personal happiness, and the value of embracing life’s unpredictability. For listeners seeking both entertainment and insight, this episode is a rollicking reminder that even the most outrageous stories can come with a dose of wisdom.Copies of Andy Dietrich’s book are available through andysbook.com, with special signed editions offered to podcast listeners.Episode Highlights:Andy’s Background & Immigration StoryBorn in Berlin, Germany; grew up in a small Black Forest villageMoved to Alaska at 14, experiencing a shock of geography and climate (and LOTS of mosquitoes)Joined the US military at 19, searching for adventure and new beginningsLife in AlaskaFrom prepping 50,000 eggs at the world’s northernmost Denny’s to enduring -40°F winters, Andy recounts formative, fish-out-of-water moments adjusting to American life in Fairbanks.Military Service and EnlistmentAmusing recruiter persistence storiesBasic training at MCRD San Diego, office gigs at Camp Pendleton—Andy’s experience moves between obstacle courses, parties, and cultural misperceptions (like thinking Alaska is next to Hawaii!)Vegas Adventures & MischiefTransition to Vegas and college life at UNLVThe “club stamp scam” empire: crafting fake stamps to sneak friends into Vegas clubs, and inadvertently changing club policy citywideOther misadventures: mistaken fraternity lingo (“Are you Russian?”), witnessing awkward family moments in line at Chipotle, and tales of wedding crashingWriting the Book: ‘Play Stupid Games, Win Stupid Prizes’Collection includes silly stories, wild college/military escapades, and thoughtful, sometimes vulnerable, essaysStructured in two halves: comedic misadventures and introspective life lessonsReflections on regret, resilience, and learning from failure—Andy gets candid about stealing “ownership” of your life experiencesPersonal Growth & Moving ForwardAndy uses writing as self-therapy, finding perspective and meaning in past chaosShares advice on turning life’s craziest moments into lessons, and encourages listeners to “answer the call” of life, not let it pass bySays he’s open to future projects if the opportunity comes, but is focused on happiness and living in the momentBook & Contact InfoPlay Stupid Games, Win Stupid Prizes is available on Amazon, or directly via Andy’s site AndysBook.com/gift—listeners can request a signed copy!Closing Laugh: The Pulled Pork Sub StoryAndy relives an unforgettable THC-fueled night, convinced he’d accidentally eaten his bartender’s dinner—pure comedy gold.Connect with Andy Dietrich:Website: AndysBook.comRequest a signed copy: AndysBook.com/giftFollow My Guest Tonight for more inspiring & hilarious real-life stories!Enjoy the show? Leave us a review and tell us your favorite story from Andy’s wild ride!Check out all of our interviews at https://myguesttonight.com/ or follow My Guest Tonight on your favorite podcast app!

In the latest edition of “Poduty and the News,” host Jeff Revilla brings listeners six fresh stories from the evolving world of live podcasting and creator culture. Broadcasting from the Poduty Live Podcast Theater, Revilla launches the episode with the show’s signature musical intro, offering a foreshadowing of the stories ahead.The episode highlights include news on the booming live podcasting economy, as Digiday reports SiriusXM and Vox Media doubling their events and sponsorship revenue. Revilla underscores how live podcast tapings have transformed into immersive marketing experiences, featuring big sponsors and interactive elements.Next, the show turns its spotlight to Bozeman, Montana, where a former grocery store is being reimagined into “Kiln,” a sprawling co-working and creator space. With podcast rooms, a café, and a theater, Kiln aims to become a vibrant hub for creatives and entrepreneurs.Comedy podcast fans receive a treat as the global “Cheerful Earful” festival expands from its London roots to Melbourne and New York City, promising 15 days of live shows and star-powered lineups. Revilla encourages listeners to get involved as live events continue to pop up across the country.The episode also covers unique live podcasting formats, such as the Zarna Garg Family Podcast’s Mumbai taping, which fuses memoir launch, family comedy, and interactive audience engagement into a one-night spectacle.Sports and pop culture collide at Fanatics Fest San Diego, where podcasts are moving to the forefront with live recordings featuring athlete and celebrity guests. Revilla notes the rising trend of podcasts headlining these major fan events, no longer relegated to the sidelines.Finally, listeners get the scoop on Seattle’s Worldcon 2025, where the SFF Addicts podcast hosts a star-studded panel—including George R.R. Martin and Brandon Sanderson—to discuss the evolving landscape of epic fantasy.Revilla wraps up by inviting aspiring podcasters to check out the Poduty Live Podcast Theater outside Pittsburgh and stay tuned for more news on emerging opportunities in the live podcasting scene.Want to livestream and record podcasts like we do?  Check out these links and build your empire!Transistor FM - for podcast hostinghttps://transistor.fm/?via=podutyCastmagic - to make written content from your audio podcasthttps://get.castmagic.io/ugp958dba02xStreamyard - for livestreaming and recording podcast episodeshttps://streamyard.com/pal/c/6282618417446912Filed Under: Live Podcast Economy“Mic Check, Sponsor Check!”Source DIGIDAYhttps://digiday.com/media/podcast-companies-turn-to-live-events-to-capture-growing-advertiser-spend/?utm_campaign=digidaydis&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=general-rssFiled Under: Coworking & Creator Spaces“From Groceries to Great Ideas”SOURCE:  KBZKhttps://www.kbzk.com/news/local-news/kiln-breathes-new-life-into-the-former-town-and-country-buildingFiled Under:  Podcast Festivals & Events“The Giggle Heard ‘Round the World”Source:  Podnews Press Releasehttps://podnews.net/press-release/cheerful-earful-2025 Filed Under:  Live Shows“Mic, Mom, Mayhem”Source:  Deadanthttps://deadant.co/the-zarna-garg-family-podcast-comes-to-mumbai-for-deadant-lives-the-loop/Filed Under: Podcast Crossovers & Pop Culture“Pods, Props, and Playmakers”SOURCE:  San Diego Villehttps://www.sandiegoville.com/2025/07/fanatics-fest-set-to-take-over-san.htmlFiled Under: Live Podcast Panels“Epic Voices, Live Choices”SOURCE:Fan Fi Addicthttps://fanfiaddict.com/sff-addicts-podcast-live-seattle-worldcon-2025/Be Sure to Follow Poduty and the News!Thank you for listening to Poduty and the News—where podcast magic, live events, and wild stories always await. Don’t forget to check out our back episodes at news.poduty.com, and stay tuned for next week’s roundup of even more must-hear stories!

On this episode of My Guest Tonight, host Jeff Revilla sits down with Jeffrey Barnes, better known as Dr. Disneyland, to explore the magic, wisdom, and storytelling power behind Disney parks. Jeffrey shares his captivating journey from his East Coast roots to his move out West, inspired by a fascination with film, TV, and the California dream. He reveals how his early experiences at Disney parks transformed over time, from initial disappointment to a deep appreciation for Walt Disney’s vision of immersive storytelling and resilience.Connect with Jeffrey Barnes:https://thewisdomofwalt.com/The Wisdom of Walt and Beyond the Wisdom of Walthttps://thewisdomofwalt.com/books/Wednesdays with Walthttps://thewisdomofwalt.com/blog/Jeffrey discusses the origins of his popular “Wisdom of Walt” book series and the creation of an accredited college course on Disneyland, all sparked by his curiosity and drive to help others succeed. He opens up about overcoming personal obstacles, including a life-threatening health scare, and how those challenges shaped his approach to writing and teaching.Listeners will also learn about the meticulous design details that make Disney parks so immersive—from the famous berms and sight lines to the intentional storytelling woven into every land and attraction. Jeffrey offers practical advice for first-time park visitors, unique stories from his travels and speaking engagements, and an insider's perspective on discovering new Disney magic every visit.Plus, get a sneak peek at his upcoming relationship book, co-authored with his wife, that draws timeless life lessons from Disney stories.Whether you’re a Disney fanatic or just curious about the man behind “Dr. Disneyland,” this episode is packed with inspiration, behind-the-scenes stories, and a reminder that we’re all the heroes of our own great story.Listen to all episodes of My Guest Tonight at:https://myguesttonight.com

Welcome to another episode of My Guest Tonight with your host, Jeff Revilla. This week, we dive into the world of comedy and virtual performance with the multi-talented Leanne Linsky, founder and CEO of Plauzzable.com. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to build a standup comedy career and an innovative platform that champions virtual comedians and creators, this is an episode you won't want to miss.About Our Guest: Leanne Linsky & Plauzzable.comLeanne Linsky’s comedic journey took root in a quick-witted Illinois household before taking her to improv and the vibrant standup communities of Las Vegas, New York City, and Los Angeles. Leveraging experience in public speaking, theater, sketch, and stand-up, Leanne channeled her entrepreneurial spirit into Plauzzable—a platform she founded to connect, empower, and amplify comedians and creators through online performances.Plauzzable.com offers a virtual stage for comics, podcasters, and hosts of all experience levels. The platform removes traditional barriers by providing accessible ticketing, scheduling, and interactive live-streaming features without subscriptions or upfront costs—just a revenue share model, making it a safe and low-risk option for creators.Episode RecapJeff and Leanne take listeners on a journey through Leanne’s early comedic influences, her impressionable improv days, and her bold leap from the corporate world into performing arts. Leanne shares personal anecdotes about her family's impact on her humor, the humbling learning curves of joke writing and public performance, and the importance of persistence through awkward open mics and small audiences.They discuss the origin story of Plauzzable, which began long before the global pivot to virtual performance during the pandemic. Leanne candidly reveals how her vision to bring comedians together online was born from necessity—adjusting to LA’s sprawling geography and longing for the camaraderie of New York’s lively comedy scene. She describes the opportunities and challenges of building a tech company in a creative space and the heart behind her mission: to make comedy accessible to everyone, everywhere.The conversation rounds out with an exploration of Plauzzable’s technology, how it levels the playing field for performers, and the future of hybrid events and creator-driven entertainment.3 Key Takeaways1. Persistence Breeds SuccessLeanne’s career is a testament to resilience. Whether facing a tough crowd, an empty room, or a failed joke, every attempt is a step closer to mastery. Her advice: “Take those swings, take those chances, do those repetitions, and figure it out—it’s a giant puzzle.”2. Innovation Can Democratize Creative SpacesPlauzzable is more than just a virtual venue—it’s a response to the gatekeeper-laden, fragmented world of live comedy. By offering simple, accessible, and creator-friendly tools, Leanne is helping performers everywhere develop their craft, build communities, and find new audiences.3. The Future is Hybrid—Creativity Will Lead the WayThe line between in-person and virtual performance is blurring. Platforms like Plauzzable, along with the visionaries behind them, are paving the way for comedians and podcasters to reach global audiences, collaborate across borders, and keep raising the bar for what’s possible in live entertainment.Connect with Leanne Linsky & PlauzzableWebsite: Plauzzable.comLinkedIn: Leanne Linsky (she’s the only one!)Final ThoughtsIf you’re an aspiring comedian, podcaster, or anyone looking to break into live performing, this episode offers both inspiration and actionable wisdom. Leanne's journey proves that with tenacity, openness to experimentation, and community focus, you can bridge the gap between creativity and technology.Stay tuned for more creator-driven stories on My Guest Tonight—and don’t forget to check out Plauzzable for your next online comedy experience!Check out all of our interviews at https://myguesttonight.com/ or follow My Guest Tonight on your favorite podcast app!