🔊 Episode Summary:

On this powerful episode of WV UncommonPlace, J.R. is joined by licensed psychologist Dr. Stephanie Maser for an in-depth conversation about digital overstimulation, emotional boundaries, and reclaiming presence in a tech-driven world.

From the nostalgic simplicity of growing up in the pre-internet era to the current age of algorithms, scrolling, and digital addiction, this episode gets real about what it means to stay mentally grounded. J.R. reflects on turning 40 and how long it took to develop healthy boundaries—sparking a raw and honest discussion about why boundaries are often learned late, and how we can start building them now.

Dr. Maser brings years of experience working with anxiety, relationships, identity, and burnout, offering both a clinical and deeply human perspective. She dives into:

• 🔐 How to recognize the signs that you need boundaries

• 🧠 The psychology of dopamine, habits, and screen addiction

• 💔 How digital behavior disrupts intimacy and relationships

• 💬 The dangers of confusing attention with connection

• 🧘‍♀️ Strategies for reclaiming mental clarity and emotional control

• 🐾 The importance of sensory grounding, pets, and daily joy

And in a heartfelt turn, J.R. flips the mic back to Dr. Maser in a “2020-style” interview inspired by Barbara Walters, exploring how she practices self-care, maintains her joy, and structures her life with the same boundaries she encourages in others.

"We are now motivated by an algorithm." – Dr. Maser
"Digital behavior is hijacking our dopamine—and most people don’t even know it."
"Presence is the antidote to overstimulation."
"Sometimes we confuse a dopamine hit with emotional intimacy."
"It took me until my 30s to learn boundaries—and I’m still learning them." – J.R.

• Why digital fog and emotional fatigue hit hardest at night

• How technology impacts romantic and platonic relationships

• The difference between overstimulation and overwhelm

• How clinicians protect themselves from emotional exhaustion

• Practical grounding exercises for daily digital detoxing

Whether you’re navigating burnout, a phone addiction, or just trying to find a sense of self in a hyper-connected world, this episode offers clear guidance, human connection, and hope.

Boundaries aren’t about shutting people out. They’re about letting the right people in—and making space for yourself first.

🌐 Website: https://www.drstephaniemaser.com
📝 Services available via telehealth in 42 states
📍Specialties: Relationships, Anxiety, Identity, Burnout, Athletes, Equine Therapy

🧭 Key Quotes:💬 What You'll Learn:💡 Final Takeaway:🔗 Connect with Dr. Stephanie Maser:

In this episode of WV Uncommonplace, Jr welcomes the distinguished Lady Dhyana Ziegler, DCJ, Ph.D. — President & CEO of Z/Creators, LLC, Professor Emerita at Florida A&M University, award-winning multimedia creator, and one of the most accomplished voices in higher education and technology.

With more than 35 years of experience as a professor, administrator, producer, writer, and digital innovator, Dr. Ziegler shares her remarkable journey across academia, media, and global leadership. She has authored four books, published over 60 scholarly works, and produced more than 100 multimedia projects. Her contributions span education, technology, creativity, and cultural impact.

• Dr. Ziegler’s early career and path into higher education

• How she became a pioneering figure in technology and digital media

• The evolution of academic leadership and digital transformation

• Her work as a multimedia writer, producer, and songwriter

• What drives her creativity after decades of accomplishments

• Insights from her global conference presentations and professional service

• The mission behind Z/Creators, LLC

• Advice for creators, educators, and leaders seeking longevity in their careers

• Her reflections and message to the WV Uncommonplace audience

Lady Dhyana Ziegler, DCJ, Ph.D., is a scholar, creator, and visionary leader whose work spans education, media, and digital culture. She serves on numerous boards, continues to mentor rising professionals, and remains dedicated to expanding creative spaces for future generations.

Alan L. Katz, more widely recognized as Al Katz, played an instrumental role in transforming the comic book series "Tales from the Crypt" into a successful television show that seamlessly blended horror and dark humor. Despite arriving in Los Angeles in 1985 without traditional credentials, Katz drew upon his background in comedy and drama from Vassar College to infuse the series with a unique perspective, particularly in crafting the memorable Crypt Keeper character. His deep personal connection to comic books and horror allowed Katz to navigate the adaptation process with creativity and authenticity, ensuring the show's success and leaving a lasting impact on the horror genre with projects like the 1995 movie "Demon Knight." Beyond television, Katz has embraced podcasting as a way to continue his storytelling journey, demonstrating a commitment to overcoming traditional industry barriers and directly engaging with audiences.

(00:06:34) Unconventional Journey: Tales from the Crypt

(00:10:42) Crypt Keeper's Creation and Development in Show

(00:11:41) "Creating the Unique Crypt Keeper Persona"

(00:22:35) "Appreciating Practical Effects in Demon Knight Movie"

(00:24:34) DreamWorks Deal Alters Film Production Plans

(00:33:24) Influential Casting Decisions in Bordello of Blood

(00:39:38) Unique Lighting Challenges in Vancouver Productions

(00:48:50) Navigating Challenges in Script Development for Film and TV

(00:50:14) Podcasts Revolutionize Creative Industry Power Dynamics

(00:53:30) Intense Relationships Among Genetically Related Individuals

Barna Donovan, a professor of communication and media studies at St. Peter's University, offers a compelling perspective on the evolving landscape of cinema, firmly rejecting the notion that the art form is dead. With a rich background in film studies from the University of Miami, Donovan delves into how interconnected cinematic universes, such as Marvel, have reshaped storytelling and audience engagement, reflecting a significant shift rather than a decline. As a staunch advocate for independent cinemas and original content, he emphasizes the role of neighborhood theaters in celebrating film as an art form and creating vibrant community events that draw audiences in. Through his teaching, Donovan equips the next generation of filmmakers and media professionals with the tools to navigate this dynamic industry, encouraging them to embrace innovation while preserving the essence of cinematic storytelling.

00:06:16) The Rise of Cinematic Universes and Theaters

(00:08:31) Rise of Streaming Platforms among Young Audiences

(00:12:00) Influence of Streaming on Filmmaking Autonomy

(00:21:47) Interconnected Universe Concept Shapes Audience Engagement Trends

(00:23:45) Interconnected Superhero Film Overload

(00:26:37) Marvel's Gimmicks: A Threat to Storytelling

(00:31:44) Creative Downturn in Film Industry

(00:51:54) Socially Engaging Movie Theaters for Generation Z

(00:57:46) Community Events and Original Content Advocacy

Anky Cyriaque, a filmmaker originally from Haiti who grew up in New York, brings a unique perspective to the cinema industry, deeply rooted in his belief that storytelling reigns supreme. Influenced by early childhood experiences with American TV shows like Sesame Street, Cyriaque emphasizes that "story is king," a philosophy he upholds in his directorial pursuits. He expresses concern over the cinema industry's current trajectory, where financial considerations often overshadow the narrative, diminishing the traditional theatrical experience and leading to what he views as a decline in storytelling quality. Cyriaque also critiques the rapid shift from theatrical releases to video on demand, arguing that this quick transition erodes the value of the cinematic experience, urging a return to prioritizing engaging narratives that captivate audiences.

(00:02:45) Short Films: Directors' Personal Storytelling Investments

(00:05:57) Film Influence on Career Paths

(00:10:23) "Showcasing Director's Storytelling Skills Through Shorts"

(00:19:11) Streaming Services' Influence on Independent Filmmakers' Visibility

(00:29:34) Dynamic Landscape of Modern Visual Narratives

(00:34:52) Media Consumption Shift: Streaming vs. Physical Ownership

(00:44:02) Influencer-Driven Marketing in Movie Promotion

(00:47:01) Evolution of Independent Film Distribution Strategies

(00:52:19) Spielberg's Influence on Film Appreciation

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3977697/

✨ Episode Summary:
In this uncommonly creative episode, J.R. sits down with Dylan Coburn, a powerhouse in animation, illustration, directing, and storytelling whose journey spans nearly three decades. From drawing Donald Duck for Disney's Quack Pack in 1995 to directing Superman: Red Son and influencing The Rings of Power, Dylan shares a detailed behind-the-scenes look at how animation evolved — and how he stayed ahead of the curve.

Dylan unpacks his early days in animation, the industry’s shift to digital in the late '90s, and what it took to launch his own studio from scratch. We dive into the philosophy of storyboarding, the nuance of visual effects art direction, and how he brings massive properties like Percy Jackson, Minecraft: The Movie, and The Meg to life through visual storytelling.

Plus: Dylan talks about becoming an author of Pocket Screenplays, collaborating with AEW wrestling stars The Young Bucks, and how he balances creativity in an AI-driven world.

🎯 Key Topics Covered:

• Dylan’s first steps at Disney Animation and his training on Quack Pack

• His “I made it” moment: directing Superman: Red Son

• Founding his own studio in 2002 and surviving the digital animation revolution

• The importance of storyboards and his transition into directing and writing

• Behind the scenes of The Rings of Power, The Meg, and Adrift

• His role in AEW’s book launch with The Young Bucks

• The launch of his screenwriting trilogy: Johnny Whisper, Killer Bee, and The Punishing Night

• Deep dive into Minecraft: The Movie and its cultural impact

• Dylan’s take on AI in the creative process

• Why DC animation trumps live-action (and his work proves it)

📚 Dylan’s Pocket Screenplays:
Available at: https://pocketscreenplays.com
Titles:

• Johnny Whisper (Supernatural Horror)

• Killer Bee (Action Thriller)

• The Punishing Night (Psychological Thriller)

📌 Notable Quotes:

“When I saw my first stack of drawings come to life… I was seduced. That’s the magic of animation.”
“If you're dull, AI can beat you. But if you’re pushing yourself creatively, it never will.”
“Storyboarding is where filmmaking begins — everything else builds on top of it.”

📣 Connect with Dylan Coburn:
Website: https://pocketscreenplays.com
Instagram: [Insert IG if available]
Twitter/X: [Insert handle if available]
LinkedIn: [Insert link if public]

🔗 Related Links:

• Watch Superman: Red Son on Max

• Stream The Meg on Netflix

• Catch AEW events and find The Young Bucks' book online

• Learn more about The Rings of Power (Amazon Prime)

• Keep an eye out for Minecraft: The Movie (coming soon)

💬 Final Thoughts from J.R.:
Dylan’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless creativity. Whether it’s sketching orcs for The Rings of Power or writing horror in his own voice, he’s a master of many crafts—and an inspiration to anyone navigating the evolving world of art and tech.

in this episode of WV Uncommon Place, host JR Sparrow welcomes the illustrious Rodes from Chicago for an impromptu, wide-ranging conversation. They discuss Rodes’ new podcast with his wife, the art of podcasting, balancing multiple shows, and the evolution of the indie podcast scene. The duo dives into food debates, music favorites, and the importance of fun and collaboration in creative work. Plus, they challenge each other with movie reviews and share classic “shameless plugs” for their online presence.

Show Notes & Timestamps:

• 00:00 – Introduction to WV Uncommon Place and hosts

• 00:27 – What WV stands for and the show’s mission

• 00:39 – Special guest: Rodes from Chicago joins the show

• 01:25 – Rodes’ new podcast with his wife: “What’s Popping Podcast”

• 02:24 – Behind the scenes: How the show comes together, batching episodes, and family dynamics

• 04:29 – Food debates: Preparation, pinto beans, and cornbread

• 07:46 – Regional food differences: Chili dogs, hot dog sauce, and household favorites

• 09:06 – Rodes’ creative journey: From rap to podcasting and film projects

• 10:08 – The evolution of indie podcasting: Community, business, and keeping it fun

• 11:34 – Favorite episodes, Michael Jackson album debate, and Taylor Swift shoutout

• 13:14 – Gaming talk: Red Dead Redemption, PlayStation vs. Xbox

• 14:19 – Managing multiple podcasts and promoting shows

• 15:29 – The “shameless plug”: Where to find Rodes online

• 16:00 – Closing remarks and sign-off

Aaron Henry is the Founder and Managing Director of Foundeast Asia, an award-winning integrated marketing communications agency bridging Southeast Asia and North America. With over two decades of experience in PR, branding, film production, and global marketing, Aaron has helped Fortune 100 companies and startups alike craft compelling stories that resonate across cultures.

His career includes leadership roles at Warner Bros., where he helped expand Rotten Tomatoes, and co-founding two Los Angeles agencies before relocating to Southeast Asia. Drawing on his MFA from the USC School of Cinematic Arts and BA in Cultural Anthropology, Aaron blends creative vision with cultural insight to deliver campaigns that connect.

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🏆 Areas of Expertise

• Cross-cultural marketing strategy (Asia ↔ North America)

• Brand storytelling & media relations

• Public relations for entertainment, tech, and consumer brands

• Digital marketing & influencer campaigns

• Film, television, and video production

• Event management & experiential marketing