Famous Interviews & Neon Jazz with Joe Dimino

Musician & Label Owner Gregory Howe on Daggerboard, Mike Clark & Building Wide Hive Records

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Sun, 13 Sep 2026 06:38:03 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Composer, Multi-Instrumentalist & Founder/Owner of Wide Hive Records Gregory Howe.

We cover the whole range of this fascinating music man who has made a major impact on the world of jazz from both sides of the equation—as a musician and an entrepreneur.

Gregory Howe founded Wide Hive Records in 1996 and has made it his mission to record and showcase veteran jazz masters while creating adventurous, alluring and forward-thinking music. In this conversation, we dig into the new 2026 Daggerboard project, Daggerboard: The Skipper and Mike Clark, and the larger musical vision behind one of Wide Hive's signature projects.

Primarily active as a producer, mixer and composer, Gregory is also a multi-instrumentalist who performs guitar, synthesizer, turntable, voice and percussion across numerous recordings. His work reflects a deep appreciation for jazz history while continually pushing into new territory.

We talk about Wide Hive Records, Daggerboard, Mike Clark, veteran jazz musicians, independent record labels, producing, composing, improvisation, entrepreneurship and Gregory's own evolution as a musician.

It's a conversation about what it takes to preserve the legacy of jazz while continuing to move the music forward—and the story of a man who has spent decades building his own place in that world.

Dig into the whole story with Gregory Howe. Dig this interview.

Get Wide Hive Action: Wide Hive Records

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Award-Winning Mark Isham on At the Carousel Club, Jazz, Film Scores & 40 Years of Music

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Sat, 12 Sep 2026 08:01:50 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with GRAMMY and Emmy Award-Winning Trumpeter, Composer & Synthesist Mark Isham.

We caught up with this accomplished Los Angeles powerhouse to talk about his new 2026 album, At the Carousel Club, and a life dedicated to making music across jazz, electronic music, orchestral composition and cinema.

An Academy Award-nominated composer, Mark Isham has spent decades moving fluidly between musical worlds while helping shape the sound and narrative of some of the most memorable films and recordings of the past four decades. His work includes film scores for A River Runs Through It, Crash, Blade, and more, while his performing career has included collaborations with legendary artists such as Joni Mitchell, Van Morrison and Stanley Clarke.

Now, with At the Carousel Club, Isham returns to his roots with a recombinant musical statement that brings together the many sounds and experiences that have defined his remarkable career. His first solo album in more than 15 years places Mark back at the center of his own musical world.

We get into the new album, his jazz roots, synthesizers, composing for film, collaboration, creativity and the evolution of a career that continues to cross boundaries between jazz, electronic music and cinematic sound.

Dig this interview with Mark Isham.

Get the album & more: Mark Isham Official Website

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Author Pardis Mahdavi on Education, Human Rights, Leadership & the Future of Learning

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 19:39:35 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with Author, Recovering Academic, CEO, Founder & Educator Pardis Mahdavi for a fascinating conversation about education, leadership, human rights, academia and the future of learning.

Pardis Mahdavi has published seven non-fiction books and two edited volumes and holds a BA from Occidental College, along with two master’s degrees and a PhD from Columbia University. An expert on human rights and education policy, she is also widely known as an education futurist.

Before stepping away from academia to found Entheon Journeys, Pardis served as President of the University of La Verne and as Provost and Executive Vice President at the University of Montana. From her base in Arizona, we explore her remarkable journey through scholarship, higher education leadership, writing, entrepreneurship and the evolving landscape of education.

It's a conversation about where education has been, where it's going, and what it means to rethink the systems that shape how we learn, lead and live. Enjoy this interview!

More Pardis Mahdavi: Pardis Mahdavi

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Dr. Alan Bauman on Hair Restoration, Hair Transplants, Innovation & Giving Back | Famous Interviews

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 18:38:55 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with Founder, CEO and Hair Restoration Surgeon Dr. Alan Bauman, a pioneering specialist whose career has been dedicated to helping people protect, enhance and restore the appearance and health of their hair and scalp.

Dr. Bauman founded his medical practice in Boca Raton, Florida, in 1997 and has since treated nearly 36,000 patients and performed more than 14,000 hair transplant surgeries. His compassionate, patient-centered philosophy and individualized artistic approach have helped establish an international reputation that attracts patients from around the world.

In this conversation, we explore Dr. Bauman's journey in hair restoration, his approach to advanced hair transplant surgery, the importance of individualized patient care, and what separates a specialist from a practitioner simply entering the field. We also talk about his philanthropic pursuits and charitable work with the military community, revealing another important side of his professional mission.

This is a conversation about medicine, entrepreneurship, innovation, compassion, service and making a meaningful difference in people's lives. Enjoy this story and interview.

More Dr. Bauman: Bauman Medical

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CEO & Founder Inga Faison Cavitt on the Introvert Advantage, Authentic Leadership & Business Growth

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 16:09:26 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with CEO and Founder of the Introvert Advantage Accelerator Inga Faison Cavitt.

Inga left engineering to pursue a life built around faith, family, freedom, flexibility and fitness—and along the way discovered that business growth doesn't have to mean constant pressure, endless output or sacrificing who you are.

She generated top 5% sales results without high-pressure tactics, using genuine leadership to drive growth, empower teams and build meaningful relationships. Today, she works with female founders and solopreneurs, helping them grow successful businesses while protecting their authenticity, energy and freedom.

Inga challenges the traditional idea that entrepreneurs have to constantly hustle to create consistent income. Instead, she teaches a more strategic, streamlined approach to business growth, helping entrepreneurs focus their time and energy where it can make the greatest impact.

We get into her journey from engineering to entrepreneurship, the Introvert Advantage, authentic selling, leadership, sustainable business growth, female entrepreneurship, solopreneurship, productivity and creating a business that supports the life you actually want.

It's a conversation about working smarter, leading authentically and building success without burning yourself out.

We cover the whole story.

Enjoy this interview with Inga Faison Cavitt.

More Inga: Inga Faison Cavitt Official Website

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John Pachnos on His New 2026 Jazz Album, Bass & His Musical Journey | Neon Jazz Interview

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 11:37:25 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with New Jersey-based Upright & Electric Jazz Bassist John Pachnos.

We dig into John's new self-titled 2026 debut album, his career in music, his development as a bassist, and the many different musical worlds he has explored along the way. The album features seven original compositions and showcases a young bassist and composer with a distinctive musical voice.

Born and raised in a small town in northwest New Jersey, John's first exposure to music came when he was just 3 years old, after hearing his older sister practicing piano. He later experimented with piano and drums before discovering the bass at age 13 — an instrument that ultimately stuck.

John went on to study at Rutgers University's Mason Gross School of the Arts, where he studied with renowned bassist Kenny Davis. After graduation, his career took him in a variety of directions, including jazz clubs, rock bands, musical theatre pit orchestras and cruise ships throughout the northeastern United States.

His new album John Pachnos brings together longtime musical friends and collaborators from his Rutgers years, including Carter Vames, Caleb Heinze, Frankie Midnight and Justin Vedovelli. The record blends jazz with elements of funk, rock, Latin music and Greek musical influences.

In this conversation, we talk about learning the bass, finding his musical identity, growing up in New Jersey, Rutgers, jazz education, cruise-ship gigs, musical theatre, playing rock, composing original music, recording his debut album and building a career as a working musician.

Dig into this conversation with John Pachnos and discover the story behind his new album and his journey as a bassist.

LISTEN TO THE ALBUM:
John Pachnos — Apple Music

MORE JOHN PACHNOS:
John Pachnos Official Website

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I Learned About 9/11 in Venice, Italy: My Journey Home to America | A 2022 Book Essay by Joe Dimino

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 08:31:45 -0700

Welcome to a special new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we take a moment to remember and honor the 25th Anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks in America.

At the time, I was 28 years old and backpacking through Italy and France when I learned about the attacks in the back of a water taxi in Venice, Italy. What followed was an unexpected and unforgettable journey as I tried to make my way back home to America in the aftermath of 9/11.

This is the full story in my own words—the moment I learned what had happened, the experience of being an American overseas during one of the defining moments in modern history, and the long journey home.

In 2002, I also wrote an essay about the experience that was published in the anthology United Against Terrorism: An Anthology for Peace, with proceeds benefiting the 9/11 fund.

Twenty-five years later, I wanted to tell the story again and remember what that moment felt like from thousands of miles away.

This is a personal story about September 11, 2001, America, travel, uncertainty, coming home, memory and the experiences that stay with us forever.

Here’s the full story—in my words.

Get the book: United Against Terrorism: An Anthology for Peace on Amazon

All things Joe Dimino writing: Joe Dimino Writing

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Founder Luke Mickelson on Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Leadership & Making an Impact

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 04:16:57 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with Founder, Motivational Speaker, Entrepreneur & Author Luke Mickelson.

Luke grew up as a hardworking farm kid in the small town of Kimberly, Idaho, where community, character and service were simply a way of life. An avid athlete and lifelong competitor, he poured his energy into youth programs, coaching and mentoring—developing a passion for people and a natural talent for leadership.

That same drive carried into his professional career in business, but Luke eventually realized something was missing. In 2012, driven by a desire to make a deeper impact, he founded Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit built around one simple but powerful mission: “No kid sleeps on the floor in our town.”

What began as a local effort grew into a movement dedicated to building and providing beds for children who don't have one. Luke's story is about entrepreneurship with purpose, servant leadership, community, resilience and turning a simple idea into an organization that has touched countless lives.

We cover the whole story—from growing up in Idaho and learning the values of hard work and service to building a nonprofit movement and discovering what it really means to make a difference.

It’s an inspiring conversation about purpose, leadership, philanthropy, entrepreneurship and helping others.

Enjoy this interview with Luke Mickelson.

More Luke: Luke Mickelson Official Website

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Advocate Jennifer Kaufman on Autism, Grandparenting, First Responders & Neuroinclusive Workplaces

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 04:03:09 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with Speaker, Author, Autism Advocate, Autism School Principal & Autism Grandmother Jennifer Kaufman.

Jennifer brings a truly unique perspective on autism, shaped by nearly 20 years of leading schools for students with autism and special needs and her personal experience as the grandmother of an 8-year-old on the spectrum.

She's the author of Grandparenting on the Spectrum: A Journey from Both Sides of the Desk, presents workshops for grandparents nationwide, and is the founder of First Response Autism, where she trains police departments and first responders to better understand and support individuals with autism in their communities.

Jennifer's work has expanded into the corporate world with the launch of The Kaufman Inclusion Group™, bringing her Kaufman Inclusion Framework to corporate C-suites and HR teams to help organizations build genuinely neuroinclusive workplaces.

In this powerful conversation, we explore autism advocacy, special education, grandparenting an autistic child, autism safety, first-responder training, neurodiversity in the workplace, inclusion, leadership and Jennifer's mission to create better understanding across communities and organizations.

It’s a story you need to hear. Enjoy this interview with Jennifer Kaufman.

More Jennifer: jenkaufman.com

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Simone Basile & Antonio Cerfeda on Perspectives with John Patitucci and Much More

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 04:24:29 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Italy-based Jazz Guitarist Simone Basile and Drummer Antonio Cerfeda.

We dig into their new 2026 album Perspectives, a remarkable trio project featuring acclaimed bassist John Patitucci. Released by Encore Music, the album brings together three musicians in a deeply conversational setting, exploring composition, improvisation, sound and the many perspectives that shape a modern jazz experience. Perspectives was released April 24, 2026.

The album was recorded at the historic Bunker Studio in New York, with Simone Basile writing and conceiving the entire project. The music grew out of a long international journey that took him through China, Japan and the United States, eventually leading to his meeting with John Patitucci during a June 2025 New York stop.

In this tandem interview, we talk about Simone and Antonio's musical roots, how they met, their evolution as musicians, the making of Perspectives, working with John Patitucci, recording in New York, international touring, composition, improvisation and the creative process behind this exciting new jazz project.

The album features eight tracks, including “Back Home,” “Bouncin',” “Federica,” “Is That Real?,” “Yin and Yang,” “Perspectives” and “To Johnny.”

Dig into this conversation with Simone Basile and Antonio Cerfeda and discover the story behind Perspectives.

GET THE ALBUM:
Simone Basile — Perspectives on Bandcamp

Dig the jazz, my friends.

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Peruquois on Music, Healing & Women's Transformation | Famous Interviews & Neon Jazz

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Wed, 9 Sep 2026 16:47:59 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of a hybrid Famous Interviews & Neon Jazz interview with World-Renowned Vocalist, Composer & Women's Transformational Leader Peruquois.

From her base in Moscow, we get into the extraordinary life and work of an artist who has spent more than 35 years exploring the intersection of music, healing, feminine transformation and the human voice.

Born in Australia, Peruquois was conservatory-trained in jazz before embarking on a remarkable musical journey shaped by decades of immersion in Native American, Indian classical and Middle Eastern vocal traditions.

Her work brings together music, voice, consciousness and personal transformation in a way that defies easy categorization. Her voice has been scientifically measured as one of the most powerful healing instruments on the planet, adding another fascinating dimension to her decades-long exploration of sound and transformation.

n this powerful conversation, we explore Peruquois' musical roots, jazz training, world music influences, vocal traditions, healing through music, women's transformational work, the power of the human voice, feminine energy, creativity, spirituality and the journey that has shaped her life's work.

From Australia to the world stage and now based in Moscow, Peruquois has created a body of work that connects cultures, musical traditions and transformational practices.

This is a conversation about sound, healing, the voice, music, women, transformation and the extraordinary journey of one artist who has spent decades exploring what music can truly do.

We cover the whole story and more. Enjoy this interview with Peruquois.

MORE PERUQUOIS:
Peruquois Official Website

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Speaker, Trainer & Founder of JournalingFix Aine Kmen

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Wed, 9 Sep 2026 16:24:54 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with Speaker, Trainer & Founder of JournalingFix Aine Kmen.

From her base in San Diego, Aine helps high-performing people and teams think more clearly under pressure, focus on what actually matters, and get unstuck faster.

To do that, she created JournalingFix, a system of science-backed quick-writing protocols designed to target the specific cognitive states that can slow down high performers — including task avoidance, circling thoughts, scattered attention, difficulty focusing, and staying productive during unstructured time.

Aine has spent the last decade working inside early-stage startup teams across the United States, Europe and Brazil, gaining firsthand experience with the pressure, uncertainty and constant demands that come with high-performance environments.

She founded JournalingFix in late 2025, turning years of experience working with people and teams into a practical system designed to help people use writing as a tool for clearer thinking and better focus.

In this conversation, we explore journaling for productivity, cognitive performance, focus, procrastination, task avoidance, overthinking, mental clarity, high-performance teams, startup culture, workplace productivity and the science behind quick writing protocols.

How can a few minutes of intentional writing help you get unstuck? Why do high performers sometimes struggle with scattered attention and task avoidance? And how can structured journaling help people think more clearly when the pressure is on?

Aine Kmen takes us through the whole journey — from years inside startup environments to creating a new approach to focused thinking with JournalingFix.

We cover the whole journey. Enjoy this interview.

MORE AINE KMEN:
Aine Kmen on LinkedIn

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Former Wildland Firefighter, Master NLP Practitioner & Instructor Thomas Wurm

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Wed, 9 Sep 2026 16:23:58 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with Former Wildland Firefighter, Master NLP Practitioner, Healing Arts Practitioner & Instructor Thomas Wurm.

These days, Thomas helps people who are carrying invisible emotional burdens and feel anxious, unworthy, unlovable, or trapped in repeating patterns they can't seem to think their way out of.

His approach brings together NLP, hypnosis, Mental & Emotional Release®, Qigong, and somatic healing to help clients explore the deeper roots behind the challenges they experience.

We get into NLP and personal development, hypnosis, emotional healing, trauma patterns, nervous-system regulation, somatic healing, Qigong, limiting beliefs, emotional release, mindset and the search for lasting change.

It's a powerful conversation about understanding what may be happening beneath the surface — and finding new ways to move forward.

From wildland firefighting to healing arts, Thomas Wurm has taken an extraordinary path.

We get into a stellar story. Enjoy this interview.

MORE THOMAS WURM:
Mountain Mind Mastery

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Inspiring Swiss Travel Queen, Life Coach, Hypnotherapist, Author & Podcaster Elisabeth Villiger Toufexis

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Wed, 9 Sep 2026 16:16:31 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with Inspiring Swiss Travel Queen, Life Coach, Hypnotherapist, Author, Magazine Editor, Storyteller, Speaker & Podcaster Elisabeth Villiger Toufexis.

From guiding travelers across six continents to interviewing inspiring people from around the world, Elisabeth believes that every journey has the power to change a life.

Swiss-born and Cyprus-based, Elisabeth has spent a lifetime exploring both the world and the human spirit. She speaks six languages, has traveled to more than 100 countries, worked as a worldwide tour guide for 11 years, and later spent 17 years as a conference interpreter across Europe.

Today, she is the host of the Most Memorable Journeys podcast and the author of 1 Suitcase, 1000 Stories, a heartfelt collection of true travel adventures, unforgettable encounters and life lessons gathered from around the world.

In this fascinating conversation, we get into Elisabeth's extraordinary journey through travel, storytelling, personal transformation, coaching, hypnosis, cultural experiences, human connection and the lessons that come from seeing the world.

What happens when a lifetime of travel becomes a roadmap for living? Elisabeth shares the stories, experiences and wisdom behind her remarkable life — and why the journeys we take can sometimes transform us in ways we never expected.

We get into an incredible story.

Enjoy this interview with Elisabeth Villiger Toufexis.

MORE ELISABETH:

The Soul Kit

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Stella Heath: For Billie | Honoring Billie Holiday’s Legacy | Neon Jazz Interview

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Wed, 9 Sep 2026 05:23:31 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Bay Area jazz vocalist Stella Heath.

In this conversation, we explore Stella’s debut album, For Billie, and the remarkable story behind her journey into the world of jazz. Nearly seven decades after Billie Holiday died in 1959, the singular voice and uncompromising artistry of Lady Day continue to resonate—and Stella Heath is bringing that legacy to a new generation.

On For Billie, Stella shines a light on Holiday’s enduring influence with a thoughtfully curated collection of songs connected to one of the most important and revealing artists in jazz history. Her approach is not simply about looking backward. It is about discovering what Billie Holiday’s music still has to say in 2026.

Raised in Petaluma, California, Stella grew up surrounded by music thanks to her mother, a passionate music lover who helped shape her artistic path. Now based in the Bay Area jazz scene, Stella is beginning to make her mark with a distinctive voice, a deep respect for jazz history and a vision that reaches well beyond the traditional boundaries of the music.

As her reputation continues to grow, 2026 could be the year Stella Heath makes her leap onto the global jazz stage.

We talk about Billie Holiday, For Billie, Stella’s musical upbringing, her life as a jazz vocalist, the power of Lady Day’s legacy and what comes next.

Enjoy this conversation with Stella Heath on Neon Jazz.

🎵 Get the album — For Billie:
Stella Heath — For Billie on Bandcamp

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Jeremy Doran on NeuroConversant Leadership, Cognitive Diversity & Better Communication

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Tue, 8 Sep 2026 18:29:52 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with Leadership Coach, Keynote Speaker & Author Jeremy Doran, author of NeuroConversant Leadership.

Jeremy Doran helps leaders connect with people who think, work, communicate, and see the world differently. His work explores how cognitive diversity can move from a communication challenge to a genuine competitive advantage for leaders, teams, and organizations.

In this powerful conversation, Jeremy shares the personal journey that shaped his approach to leadership. For years, he felt like he was speaking a different language than the people around him—not because he wasn't smart or capable, but because his brain genuinely processes the world differently.

That experience, and the frustration that came with it, ultimately led Jeremy to dedicate his career to helping leaders and teams communicate across the very real differences in how people think.

We explore neurodiversity, cognitive diversity, leadership communication, workplace relationships, team dynamics, understanding different perspectives, inclusive leadership, and the journey behind NeuroConversant Leadership.

If you're interested in becoming a better leader, improving communication, building stronger teams, or understanding how different ways of thinking can create an advantage in the workplace, this interview offers plenty to consider.

Enjoy this interview with Jeremy Doran.

More Jeremy Doran:
NeuroConversant Leadership

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Cindy Shaw: When Burnout Becomes Awakening | Psilocybin, Healing & Finding Your True Self

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Tue, 8 Sep 2026 17:33:26 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with Cindy Shaw, Founder of The Awakened Journey, a women-only psychedelic retreat and integration program based in British Columbia.

Cindy works with high-achieving women who have built the career, raised the family, created the identity and seemingly done everything right—yet still feel like something is missing. Her work explores what happens when burnout stops being a badge of honor and becomes a doorway to transformation.

The Awakened Journey combines guided psilocybin experiences with preparation, integration, mindset work, brain health coaching and somatic practices. Cindy describes the program as a deeper journey toward reconnecting with the authentic self rather than simply another weekend retreat.

In this fascinating conversation, we get into Cindy's own journey, the challenges faced by successful women who have spent years taking care of everyone else, the difference between intellectualizing pain and actually experiencing it, and the growing conversation around psychedelics, personal growth, women's healing and transformation.

Cindy brings more than 35 years of experience studying the mind, heart and human behavior. She is a Certified NLP Practitioner, HeartMath Practitioner, Brain Health Coach, Hypnotherapist and trained Psychedelic Guide and Integration Coach.

From British Columbia to the deeper questions of identity, purpose and fulfillment, this is a conversation about what happens when the life you've built no longer feels like the life you're meant to live.

What happens when you stop pushing through—and finally listen to yourself?

We get into it all.

Enjoy this conversation with Cindy Shaw on Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino.

🌎 More Cindy Shaw & The Awakened Journey:
The Awakened Journey

This interview discusses psychedelic experiences and personal transformation. It is intended for informational and conversational purposes and is not medical advice.

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Veronica Reyes: Healing Through the Music of Life | Immigration, Cybersecurity & Resilience

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Tue, 8 Sep 2026 16:40:58 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with Author, Electrical Engineer & Cybersecurity Expert Veronica Reyes, whose extraordinary journey from Brazil to Washington, DC is a story of ambition, resilience, loss, transformation and finding a new sense of purpose.

Veronica moved from Brazil to the United States in 2015 after a professional opportunity brought her to Washington, DC. She went on to build a career spanning more than two decades in technology, electrical engineering and cybersecurity, helping organizations navigate uncertainty in an increasingly complex digital world.

But behind the professional accomplishments was another journey.

Away from the office, Veronica was navigating her own setbacks, losses and personal challenges—experiences that forced her to rethink who she was, where she was going and what truly mattered. Those experiences ultimately became the foundation for her powerful new book, Healing Through the Music of Life.

The memoir explores resilience, self-discovery, adversity and transformation, with music serving as a powerful source of comfort, meaning and healing.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Veronica and Joe Dimino discuss her journey from Brazil to America, building a career in cybersecurity, overcoming personal challenges, finding strength through music and turning difficult experiences into a story that she hopes can inspire others.

This is a conversation about starting over, discovering yourself and learning how the soundtrack of your life can help you find your way forward.

🌎 More Veronica Reyes:
Healing Through the Music of Life

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Dr. Ray Seol: The Prison of Language | Jazz, Korean Shamanism & Much More

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Tue, 8 Sep 2026 14:23:02 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Jazz Musician, Author & Berklee College of Music Associate Professor Dr. Ray Seol.

In this fascinating conversation, we explore The Prison of Language—a deeply personal and unconventional project that exists as both a book and an album. From his career as a musician and educator to his work as one of the most frequently quoted K-pop scholars in the United States, Ray Seol has a story that crosses musical, cultural and academic boundaries.

Recorded during Ray’s Fulbright Scholarship in Korea, the eight-track project grew from interviews with fourteen survivors of suicide loss. The resulting music draws heavily from Korean shamanism and ritual, creating something far beyond what you might traditionally expect from a jazz album.

There is also a deeply personal element. One of the tracks was written on the day Ray’s mother was buried more than twenty years ago, adding another layer of memory, grief, culture and musical expression to this remarkable work.

From his base in Boston, Ray Seol takes us through the making of The Prison of Language, his experiences in Korea, his work at Berklee, his scholarship surrounding K-pop, and the powerful intersection of music, language, ritual, loss and healing.

This is a conversation about much more than jazz. It is about finding a musical language for experiences that words sometimes cannot fully express.

Enjoy this compelling conversation with Dr. Ray Seol on Neon Jazz.

🎵 Get The Prison of Language:
Amazon — The Prison of Language

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Nick Stefanacci Talks New Album Right Here, Right Now & Much More

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Mon, 7 Sep 2026 06:24:50 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with the Prince of Soul Jazz, international saxophonist and producer Nick Stefanacci, discussing his powerful new 2026 album Right Here, Right Now.

We catch up with Nick from his base in New Jersey to talk about this new project, live performances, independent music production, and what it means to make music in America in 2026. This marks our return conversation with Nick after first speaking with him in 2023.

His fifth studio album, Right Here, Right Now, is a deeply personal project that Nick wrote, arranged, mixed, mastered, and produced entirely himself. The record features former Santana frontman Tony Lindsay and Bruce Springsteen trombonist Ozzie Melendez, adding even more soul and musicianship to an already stellar project.

We also talk about the single “Midnight Affair,” where Nick channels some of the magic and spirit associated with legendary producer and arranger Quincy Jones. The song and album serve as a conversation starter about artistry, independence, creativity, and the continuing legacy of soul jazz.

In this interview, we cover Right Here, Right Now, saxophone, soul jazz, Quincy Jones, live shows, music production, independent artists, the state of music in 2026 America, Nick's creative process, his evolution as an artist, and the future of the soul jazz tradition.

From New Jersey to the world, Nick Stefanacci is making music on his own terms. Dig this interview.

Listen to Right Here, Right Now:
Nick Stefanacci – Right Here, Right Now on Apple Music

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Giulio Cuppari & Giosuè Consiglio of Psoas Trio Talks New Album Satori | Italian Contemporary Jazz

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Sun, 6 Sep 2026 06:12:00 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with guitarist Giulio Cuppari and drummer Giosuè Consiglio of the Italy-based Psoas Trio.

We take a deep dive into the trio's new 2026 album Satori, their beginnings, evolution, individual musical journeys, and the creative chemistry that has shaped their sound. Based in Milan, Psoas Trio also features tenor saxophonist Alessio Dal Checco, creating a distinctive contemporary jazz voice built around listening, interaction, risk, and constant musical dialogue.

On Satori, the trio consolidates a musical path rooted in shared experiences while pushing themselves beyond preconceived ideas. Rather than following a fixed formula, Psoas Trio creates an open musical space where improvisation, communication, experimentation, and spontaneity help shape the music in real time.

Rooted in contemporary jazz while incorporating elements of British rock, the trio explores new compositional possibilities and expands its musical language without losing a strong melodic foundation. The result is music that feels adventurous and exploratory while remaining deeply connected to melody, expression, and the chemistry between three musicians.

In this conversation, we discuss Satori, the formation of Psoas Trio, the Milan jazz scene, contemporary European jazz, improvisation, composition, British rock influences, musical risk, ensemble interaction, developing a unique artistic identity, and the individual paths of Giulio Cuppari and Giosuè Consiglio.

We also explore how a band builds trust, how musicians learn to listen to one another, and how continuous dialogue can become the foundation of a distinctive sound.

From their base in Milan, we cover it all. Enjoy this interview.

Get the album:
Psoas Trio - Satori on Bandcamp

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Singer Jennifer Madsen on Girl Talk, Big Band Jazz & the American Songbook

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Sat, 5 Sep 2026 06:55:59 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with acclaimed jazz vocalist Jennifer Madsen, talking about her powerful 2026 album Girl Talk.

This female producer-led big band jazz project reimagines the American Songbook through inventive arrangements, seasoned interpretation, big band storytelling and collaborative musical leadership. Jennifer sits at the center of a richly orchestrated ensemble, bringing classic material to life with contemporary energy and dynamic interplay between voice and band.

A mentor, educator and headliner performing regularly at clubs, concert halls and festivals, Jennifer brings a wealth of experience and perspective to this project.

We caught up with Jennifer initially in 2025, so it's great to reconnect with her in 2026 and dig deeper into Girl Talk, her performances, musical journey, leadership, education and the evolving world of jazz.

🎧 Listen to Girl Talk: Apple Music

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Mandi Feely-Swain on Leadership, Consistency & Mortgage Success

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Fri, 4 Sep 2026 17:56:27 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with Educator, Author, Top Producer, Leader & Speaker Mandi Feely-Swain.

Born and raised in Idaho and a proud graduate of Boise State University, Mandi has a deep appreciation for Idaho’s growth and the families who call it home. She and her husband Cory live in Eagle, where they share a blended family filled with love, energy and plenty of adventures.

Mandi is a nationally recognized mortgage leader and top-producing loan originator. As Senior Executive Vice President at Premier Mortgage Resources, LLC, she has closed more than 2,500 units totaling more than $816 million from 2020 to 2025.

Known for her practical, people-first approach, Mandi helps professionals build consistency, confidence and lasting success. In this conversation, we explore leadership, mortgage lending, professional growth, mindset, family, education, consistency and what it takes to build a meaningful and successful career.

More Mandi - https://originationboost.com/

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DeeAnn Palin: The CEO Whisperer on Business Growth, Leadership & HR

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Fri, 4 Sep 2026 17:46:59 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with Founder & CEO of ONPOINT Business Solutions DeeAnn Palin, known as “the CEO Whisperer.”

DeeAnn helps CEOs and Boards accelerate growth, avoid costly people mistakes, and prepare for strategic transitions. With more than 20 years as a corporate executive and 12 years as a business owner, she brings extensive experience in leadership, business coaching, human resources and organizational transformation.

Through business coaching and fractional HR strategies, DeeAnn helps companies build stronger teams, navigate challenges and create sustainable growth.

From her base in Scottsdale, Arizona, we cover quite a bit of ground, including CEO leadership, business growth, Boards, HR strategy, people management, organizational transformation, strategic transitions, executive coaching and the challenges that come with building a successful company.

It's an insightful conversation about the people and leadership decisions that can make or break a growing business.

More DeeAnn Palin & ONPOINT Business Solutions: https://onptbiz.com/

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Theresa Gale on the Enneagram, Self-Remembering & the Inner Work of Love

neonjazzkc@gmail.com (Joe Dimino) — Fri, 4 Sep 2026 17:38:08 -0700

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with Seasoned Entrepreneur, Author & Executive Coach Theresa Gale.

For more than 30 years, Theresa has worked alongside leaders, teams and individuals, exploring a question many of us quietly carry: What if the life we're living and the life we're capable of living aren't quite the same thing?

Theresa calls this experience self-forgetting — a persistent sense of restlessness and disconnection from who we truly are. Her life's work has focused on understanding why self-forgetting happens and how we can find our way back to self-remembering.

A certified Enneagram trainer, Theresa is the author of The Inner Work of Love and Action — An Embodied Enneagram Path from Self-Forgetting to Self-Remembering.

We get into the whole story, including the Enneagram, personal growth, leadership, self-awareness, inner work, love, action, self-forgetting, self-remembering, transformation and what it means to live a more authentic life.

It's a fascinating conversation about understanding ourselves and finding our way back to the life we're meant to live.

More Theresa Gale: https://www.transforminc.com/

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