On Mic Podcast

A strange object from deep space, known as 3I/ATLAS is making headlines all over the world. Is it just a big rock or something more? This interstellar “traveler” has come a long way and with its weird trajectory and shape, it has some scientists suggesting it could be a probe of some kind sent by aliens. John Gertz, longtime SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) expert is the author of a fascinating new book entitled, “Reinventing SETI: New Directions in the Search for Extraterrestrial Life.” Learn all about what scientists are saying about 3I/ATLAS, whether it is alien tech, and if so, is the planet earth ready for it.

Jay S. Winuk is co-founder and executive vice president of 9/11 Day, the nonprofit organization that annually organizes the September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance. On September 11, 2001, Jay’s brother Glenn J. Winuk, an attorney, volunteer firefighter and EMT, was killed in the line of duty at the World Trade Center. Inspired by his brother’s devotion to community service and courageous actions, Jay joined David Paine in 2002 as co-founder in helping to build the 9/11 Day Observance initiative. He has become a passionate advocate for volunteering and national service. This day matters and here is a way for all of us to pitch in to commemorate those we lost and loved.

Sarah Gardner is the founder of the non-profit Yoga Reaches Out, which has raised millions for Boston Children’s Hospital. She is a skilled yoga teacher who has inspired thousands with her knowledge and love for yoga. In today’s episode, we chat with her about her book “Daily JAM: 366 Meditations, Daily Enlightenment in Just a Minute.” The “Daily JAM” offers simple words of wisdom that will help you live every day with greater purpose,love, patience and awe in the magic of being human. Take it from me, it works! Namaste…

Meet a man who is on the run, helping to make the world a better place. Dan Alperin is a radio executive who took p running several years back and is now an accomplished marathoner, often raising money for charity. There’s a lot to learn from this running man’s perspective about the rigors of the sport, the physical and mental benefits it provides and the inner drive to keep pushing onward. What makes Dan’s story even more inspiring is that he was recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. Instead of letting PD slow him down, Dan has enhanced his training, staying several steps ahead of the disease, ready to continue his marathoning around the globe!

The devastating Southern California wildfires in early 2025 destroyed hundreds of residences and businesses. Lives were upended with the rebuilding for some still underway. Today’s guest is Rabbi Daniel Sher, who along with his fellow clergy and congregants at Kehillat Israel in Pacific Palisades saw his family destroyed by the flames. Miraculously, the synagogue was spared any damage and has served as an oasis for those in need, both materially and spiritually. Rabbi Sher shares with us the impact of traumatic loss and how resilience and hope is helping his family and so many others cope.

Carl Stevens is an award winning radio journalist and a colleague of mine at WBZ, Boston’s top rated news station. Carl has covered stories small and large, local and international and always with professionalism, integrity and empathy. Carl is also a talented poet whose works are frequently part of his broadcasts, poems that are witty, moving and always in perfect rhyme scheme. Meet a veteran radio personality, a true man of letters, who ranks as one of my favorite storytellers!

Meet Dr. Missy Lahren an environmental lawyer and activist for the past three decades. She now proudly refers to herself and her colleagues as “Earth Lawyers.” All of her education and training in law, philosophy and science has prepared her for the important work she is doing to protect the environment. She is currently chair of the board of an NGO called The Earth Law Center based in Durango, Colorado. Missy is determined to do what she can to defend nature. She brings insight and passion to her mission!

Time for some laughter and insight into the world of standup comedy! Today’s guest is Tom Cotter who took the comedy scene by storm since becoming a breakout star on Season 7 of America’s Got Talent. Tom hails from New England and is constantly on the road entertaining large crowds in clubs and corporate events. Known for his rapid fire delivery and exceptional timing, he is a master craftsman who lets us in on what life is like these days for a top flight comic!

Meet Dr. Kris Verburgh, internationally renowned expert on longevity and the future of medicine. He is a medical doctor, researcher and author of many important books including, “The Longevity Code.” Join us as Dr. Verburgh tackles issues such as why we grow old and offers practical tips on slowing down the biological clock while maximizing wellness.

On today’s episode we take a virtual trip to the moon! Created by Lightroom and Paquin Entertainment Group, The Moonwalkers is debuting in Boston this summer. It is a thrilling an video experience brought to life using rare NASA archival footage, cutting-edge spatial audio, and moving storytelling by the one and only Tom Hanks who also co-wrote the piece. My conversation with CEO Richard Slaney of Lightroom will whet your appetite for adventure! Find out more at www.lightroomexperiences.com.

Meet Stephen Dalton, an accomplished actor and voice-over artist who also happens to be a gifted Irish storyteller. I discovered Stephen quite by accident, while looking for the perfect guided meditation to help me sleep. Finding Stephen Dalton’s “Sleep Stories” on YouTube did the trick! His series has helped me and thousands around the world achieve a more restorative and restful sleep. Stephen modestly states that his goal is to send joy and peace out into the world. Stephen’s podcasts and YouTube channel continue to attract a larger international audience. When you check out his work you will know why. His writing, vocal styling and sincerity shine through every story, making listeners feel safe and relaxed as they drift to sleep. Learn more about this talented artist who uses the power of gentle storytelling to help so many!

For more than twenty-five years, Quantum Health has been defining the field now known as healthcare navigation. Our guest today is Kara Trott, whose goal was to ensure that no patient go through the difficult healthcare journey alone. So she rose to the challenge, established a billion dollar plus business that is now an established leader in the healthcare space. She writes about it in her memoir, “No One Alone: Humanizing Healthcare as an Outsider.” Quantum Health has certainly made a difference in the lives of countless people, with dynamic leader Kara Trott at the helm!

Marschall S. Runge, M.D., Ph.D., is the executive vice president for Medical Affairs at the University of Michigan, dean of the Medical School, and CEO of Michigan Medicine. He earned his doctorate in molecular biology at Vanderbilt University and his medical degree from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, where he also completed a residency in internal medicine. He is the author of more than 250 publications and holds five patents for novel approaches to healthcare. Today we talk about his new novel, “Coded to Kill: A Techno Medical Thriller.” It is a supercharged fictional story about how advancing technology in medicine is exploited with by a power hungry cabal and the offbeat cybersecurity team out to stop them. A tough book to put down!

Today we honor a cultural film icon. We present the story of actor Robert Shaw. His nephew Christopher Shaw Myers shares much about the British artist’s family upbringing, his talents as a novelist and playwright and Robert Shaw’s impact on screen in such films as “Dr. No,” “A Man for All Seasons,” and of course the classic summer blockbuster “Jaws” premiering fifty years ago. Shaw was a complex, often troubled man whose brilliance in limited screen appearances was evident. Learn more about this devoted family man from his nephew who offers up an endearing and fascinating biography!

Boston based filmmaker and screen writer Eric Aronson joins us to talk about his feature directing debut, a comedy thriller heist film called “Any Day Now.” Billed as a “true-ish” story, the movie is inspired by the actual events of March 18,1990, when $500 million worth of priceless art was stolen from the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. The art has never been recovered and there still exists a multi-million dollar reward for its return. Eric is an independent filmmaker with quite the creative spark that extends to how he has been marketing his movie. Get set to go behind-the-scenes with an innovative writer-director!

Today we sit down with Saleema Vellani, who believes in the power and promise of innovation. She has written a fabulous book about it entitled, “Innovation Starts With I: Increase Your Influence. Ignite Your Impact.” Her life mission is to serve entrepreneurs globally and she is well on her way to accomplishing that!

Dr. Otello Stampacchia is a globetrotter of the first order, traveling around the world as the head of investor relations and strategic initiatives for his firm Omega Funds. He is heavily involved in several of Omega’s therapeutic areas of interest, particularly oncology and inflammatory disorders. Omega’s investments have resulted in over 50 life changing drugs, approved and on market. Join us as we talk about various aspects of the ever-changing health care industry with a scientist/investor who is tops in his field!

John Rinaldo is a passionate writer who shares his love for writing through published books and daily inspirational stories on Substack at rinaldoj.substack.com. John uses these platforms to offer insights and experiences about life purpose and intentions. His latest book is entitled, “Dancing Letters: A Boy’s Journey Through Words and Strength.” It’s a semi- autobiographical novel about overcoming the struggles and challenges of dyslexia. John’s story is uplifting and positive, a must-read for anyone touched by dyslexia!

Kim Carrigan, a native of Missouri, has made New England her home for decades, establishing herself as a respected and popular TV news anchor and radio personality. She currently hosts her own podcast, “Carrigan and Company,” as well as a weekly business show on WRKO in Boston. Kim continues to give of her time as a volunteer with numerous non-profits and believes strongly in helping local community organizations thrive. An exceptional talent, Kim understands media and the importance of objectivity in delivering the news!

What a delight welcoming my old friend Harry Castleman, co-author along with Walter J. Podrazik, of “Watching TV: American Television Season by Season, Fourth Edition.” Their book encompasses several eras of American television from the early days of broadcast TV, all the way through cable, and now streaming. Considered the gold standard chronology of American television, it is chock full of fun facts, firsts, insights and exploits. A conversation with Harry is always memorable!