In this episode of the HODGEPOD, Rob Fredette welcomes U.S. Foreign policy expert Ronald Bee to discuss pressing global issues. Ronald Bee, with his extensive background in international relations and national security, shares his insights on the Ukraine-Russia conflict, the historical impact of the Cold War, and the complexities of the Middle East crisis.

Listeners gain a deep understanding of how past events shape current international dynamics and the ongoing efforts to maintain peace. Tune in to learn from Ronald's rich experiences and expertise in navigating the intricate landscape of global affairs.

Ronald has worked as a public affairs analyst at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA, Vienna, Austria), as a foreign policy analyst at the Library of Congress Congressional Research Service (CRS, DC), as a Special Assistant for National Security Affairs at Palomar Corporation, with projects conducted for the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the Department of Energy, the DoD Office of International Security Affairs, and the Presidential Commission on Chemical Warfare Review (DC), as a Robert Bosch Foundation Fellow for American Leadership working for the Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the German Parliament (Bonn) and the Governing Mayor of West Berlin the year before the Berlin Wall fell. In addition he served in fellowships at the Princeton Center for Energy and Environmental Studies, the Aspen Institute, Berlin, and the Salzburg Seminar in Salzburg, Austria.

RECORDED JULY 29, 2025

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Join host Rob Fredette as he welcomes actress Kimberley Kim to HODGEPOD for an engaging conversation about her dynamic career in film and television. Originally from Canada, Kimberly shares her journey of rediscovering acting after stepping away for family and a career in finance. Her story highlights the resurgence of roles for seasoned actors, the ever-evolving film industry, and the importance of chemistry on set.

This episode dives into Kimberley's versatile roles, from detectives to mothers, revealing her strategic approach to acting and the wisdom gained with age. Hear her anecdotes about working with Hollywood's elite, including a reunion with Johnny Depp and insights from the set of "21 Jump Street." Kimberley also reflects on the fulfilling opportunities available for older actresses and her experiences of crafting memorable characters.

Explore the significance of film and storytelling, the business side of acting, and the unpredictable yet rewarding nature of booking roles in this candid dialogue. Plus, discover Kimberley's latest projects, including an upcoming thriller and a notable appearance in a music video by Ariana Grande.

RECORDED JULY 18, 2025

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In this engaging episode of HODGEPOD, host Rob Fredette dives into the 1993 classic film The Fugitive with repeat guest Walt Blau, host of the "Be Raw Podcast". Together, they dissect the movie’s memorable characters, pivotal scenes, and the riveting dynamic between Harrison Ford and Tommy Lee Jones. Blau shares his personal connections to the film, including a nostalgic trip back to 1993, offering listeners a chance to rediscover a movie that captivated audiences worldwide.

Listen in as they explore the film's plot twists, notable performances, and even behind-the-scenes tidbits like how certain scenes were filmed during a real St. Patrick’s Day parade in Chicago. Whether you're a fan of the film or new to it, this episode provides a fun and insightful look at a movie that remains a classic 30 years on.

ENJOY!!

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You can reach Walt and find his podcast on Apple and the PODBEAN App.

Instagram: @berawpodcast

www. berawpodcast.com

Recorded June 19, 2025

HODGEPOD can be heard on APPLE, SPOTIFY, IHEART, AUDACY, TUNEIN RADIO AND THE PODBEAN APP.

hodgepodallin@yahoo.com

Join host Rob Fredette as he dives into a musical journey with Dr. B, aka Jonathan Borden, an electronic musician and audiovisual storyteller from Toronto, Canada. This episode explores Dr. B's passion for blending different music genres, from electronic to opera, and uncovering the art of immersive audio films.

Discover the creative process behind Dr. B's latest work, "Echoes Through Time," and the challenges of creating narrative-driven audio experiences without visuals. Also, delve into Dr. B's dual life as a forensic psychology student and the intricate balance of his artistic passions and academic pursuits.

Hear about his personal influences, industry experiences with renowned producers, and the family dynamics that fuel his creative endeavors. A fascinating look at how storytelling transcends mediums to captivate and inspire.

HODGEPOD can be heard on APPLE, SPOTIFY, IHEART, AUDACY, TUNEIN RADIO AND THE PODBEAN APP.

hodgepodallin@yahoo.com

Join host Rob Fredette on this episode of HODGEPOD as he welcomes the multi-talented True Istina, a musician, artist, and singer who has had a remarkable journey in the music industry. True Istina shares how her passion for music began in childhood, evolving from singing and dancing with her family to becoming a songwriter during the isolation of COVID.

True discusses the unique process of songwriting, emphasizing her preference for working at night when creativity strikes. She talks about her inspirations, combining influences across genres from pop to country, and shares stories from her performances at prestigious venues, including the House of Blues and in her native Croatia.

Listeners will learn about True's creative process, the meaning behind her stage name, and her fearless approach to releasing deeply personal music. True highlights the importance of staying authentic and the impact her songs have had on listeners worldwide. Tune in to discover more about True Istina's artistic journey, her latest projects, and her encouraging message of self-confidence and strength.

RECORDED JULY 3, 2025

Instagram: trureistina.official

YOUTUBE: @trueistina

www.trueistina.com

Go to Apple and Spotify for these songs and more:

The Word Is (2025)

Fantasy (2022)

Walkin the Line. (2022)

Nu Life (2022)

For Fun (2021)

HODGEPOD can be heard on APPLE, SPOTIFY, IHEART, AUDACY, TUNEIN RADIO AND THE PODBEAN APP.

hodgepodallin@yahoo.com

In this compelling episode of HODGEPOD, Rob Fredette sits down with Mike Smith, a former U.S. Air Force veteran who has faced significant life challenges, including homelessness, mental illness, and addiction. Despite these hardships, Mike has found strength and purpose through his faith, leading him to help others struggling with similar issues.

If you're looking for a story of resilience and redemption, don't miss this heartfelt conversation where Mike shares his personal journey and the profound impact it has had on his life and community.

RECORDED MARCH 15 , 2025

HODGEPOD can be heard on APPLE, SPOTIFY, IHEART, AUDACY, TUNEIN RADIO AND THE PODBEAN APP.

hodgepodallin@yahoo.com

In this enlightening episode of HODGEPOD, Rob Fredette welcomes Nir Bashan, the acclaimed author of "The Creator Mindset: 92 Tools to Unlock the Secrets to Innovation, Growth, and Sustainability." Together, they delve into the fascinating world of creativity and how it can transform both personal and professional life.

Discover the dichotomy between the analytical and creative sides of our brain, and learn how balancing the two can lead to innovation and growth. Nir shares his journey of writing his influential book and provides insights into how businesses and individuals can break out of the cycle of routine to foster creativity.

This episode emphasizes the importance of positivity, embracing failure as a step towards innovation, and the power of small victories in achieving big dreams. With Nir's second book, "The Solution Mindset," on the horizon, Rob and Nir explore practical ways to reawaken and apply creativity in everyday life.

www.nirbashan.com

Instagram: www.instagram/nirbashan/

Creator Mindset can be purchased on Amazon. This great book will challenge your brain.

HODGEPOD can be heard on APPLE, SPOTIFY, IHEART, AUDACY, TUNEIN RADIO AND THE PODBEAN APP.

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Somehow I deleted this episode. This is a re-run of my first interview with Bernd Haber. Welcome to HODGEPOD with Rob Fredette, featuring an exclusive conversation with Bernd Haber, the grandson of Fritz Haber, an author whose diaries unveil captivating stories from World War II. Born and raised in East Berlin, Bernd recounts his journey to Phoenix, Arizona, and shares insights into his grandfather's experiences as a German soldier captured by American troops during World War II.

Bernd delves into his grandfather's diary, being a POW in an American camp, life in post-war Germany. They also explore family secrets that span generations, including connections to the Spanish Civil War. The conversation paints a vivid picture of Germany's historical changes and the resilience of its people.

RECORDED MARCH 29, 2025

HODGEPOD can be heard on APPLE, SPOTIFY, IHEART, AUDACY, TUNEIN RADIO AND THE PODBEAN APP.

hodgepodallin@yahoo.com