Billy Dees Podcast

Hosted by Perfect Media Productions, LLC

Marketing News Society Culture PhilosophyInterviews guests

Website RSS feed LinkedIn Facebook Instagram YouTube

Episodes

382

Latest episode

Aug 2026

Language

About the show

The Billy Dees Podcast delivers compelling conversations that go beyond the trending topics. Each episode features engaging interviews with authors, media professionals, filmmakers, television personalities, political figures, and advocates making a difference across a variety of meaningful causes. In addition to in-depth interviews, the podcast offers thoughtful commentary on current events, news, and politics. Rather than relying on outrage or partisan talking points, host Billy Dees emphasizes respectful dialogue, diverse viewpoints, and insightful analysis. A touch of humor—and the occasional dose of well-placed sarcasm—helps keep every episode informative and entertaining.Produced with broadcast-quality audio and a commitment to substantive conversation, The Billy Dees Podcast reflects more than a decade of podcasting experience. Every episode is crafted to inform, challenge perspectives, and spark meaningful discussion. Produced by Perfect Media Productions, LLC in Ohio, USA, the show also utilizes the PodMatch booking service to connect with exceptional guests from around the world. #books #commentary #media #film #television #politics #news #business #radio

Listen to episodes

60 recent

September 16, 202634 min

Stories That Heal with Nneka Oluoha

In this conversation, Billy Dees talks with Nigerian-American physician, novelist, and speaker Dr. Nneka Oluoha about mental health, culture, identity, family expectations, immigration, empathy, and the power of storytelling. As an internal medicine hospitalist, Dr. Oluoha has witnessed firsthand the deeply personal stories people often carry beneath the surface. Those experiences helped inspire her novel Live for Me Nkem, which explores depression, marriage, motherhood, family relationships, and the immigrant experience through the story of a Nigerian woman living in America. Billy and Dr. Oluoha discuss why asking for help can be so difficult, how cultural expectations can influence the way people understand emotional struggles, and why empathy and trust are essential when someone is finally ready to open up. The conversation also explores identity and the idea that we are more than any single label or role. Dr. Oluoha shares her own experience coming to the United States from Nigeria, adapting to a new culture, and finding a balance between her identities as a physician, mother, wife, and Nigerian-American. They also talk about writing with purpose, the difference between statistics and stories, and why fiction can sometimes help us understand mental health in a way that numbers simply cannot. It's a thoughtful conversation about the stories we carry, the expectations that shape us, and what can happen when we finally find the courage to say, "I need help." To learn more about Live for Me, Nkem https://nnekaoluoha.com/ Follow Billy Dees on X https://x.com/BillyDees

September 12, 20261 hr 3 min

Simulcast Episode - Mistrial, Midterms, and Mistrust

This episode is a simulcast of the Shades of Jade Podcast and The Billy Dees Podcast. In this Shades of Jade roundtable, host Sam is joined by author Sidney Pines and longtime podcaster Billy Dees for a wide-ranging conversation about media, the justice system, politics, and America’s readiness for challenging times. Sidney, author of Awakening: A Patriot’s Diary of American Deception and Golden Age Rising, brings the perspective of an everyday American documenting the events and cultural shifts of recent years. Alongside Billy, host of the Billy Dees Podcast, the discussion explores why audiences are increasingly turning away from legacy media and toward independent shows—and whether podcasting risks falling into the same traps of sensationalism and unserious commentary. The conversation also examines the Lindsay Clancy mistrial, including the surge of public support for the accused, concerns about forgotten victims, jury harassment, and what the panel sees as the selective use of hormonal and mental-health explanations in public discourse. From there, the roundtable turns to American preparedness for a genuine crisis, upcoming midterm elections and key governor’s races in Ohio, Iowa, and Illinois, and the question of how quickly public attention has shifted away from the Epstein files. It’s a candid and thought-provoking conversation examining the stories dominating the headlines—and the ones that seem to disappear just as quickly. Follow Billy Dees on X https://x.com/BillyDees Shades of Jade on X https://x.com/ShadesofJadePod Sidney Pines on X https://x.com/Sidney1776

September 11, 202648 min

What If Your Relationship Was a Monument Worth Protecting?

What happens when you’re given a second chance at life—and decide to use it to help other people save their relationships? In this episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, Bill sits down with Gaylen Wilson, a heart transplant survivor, 20-year sober alcoholic, relationship author, erectile dysfunction advocate, and co-founder of the Monument Method Institute. Gaylen shares the remarkable story of his heart failure, including the moment doctors discovered his heart was functioning at only about 5%, the years of declining health that followed, and the unforgettable night in June 2018 when he received a donor heart. But surviving a heart transplant was only the beginning of his story. Gaylen and his wife, Heather, turned their own relationship experiences into a philosophy they call the Monument Method—the idea that a relationship is something we are constantly building or damaging through our words, actions, affection, and willingness to put the relationship ahead of winning an argument. They discuss emotional safety, attachment, conflict, intimacy, and what Gaylen calls the “Sanctuary Bond.” The conversation also takes a turn toward some uncomfortable realities of modern relationships and dating. Bill and Gaylen discuss erectile dysfunction, pornography, declining intimacy among younger people, dating culture, and the rise of AI and other forms of simulated companionship. Gaylen explains his concept of “counterfeit connection” and why he believes technology can sometimes provide the appearance of intimacy without the substance of a real human bond. From a near-death experience to relationship coaching, dozens of books, and an unconventional approach to preserving intimacy, Gaylen's story raises a surprisingly simple question: Are we building our relationships—or slowly taking a hammer and chisel to them? A wide-ranging conversation about second chances, love, intimacy, emotional safety, modern dating, and what it takes to protect the relationships that matter most. As per the request of the guest, if you use Gaylen’s site to purchase services https://www.monumentmethodinstitute.com/ please use the discount code Monument . Disclaimer: The trailer for the Monument Method Institute was produced and provided by Gaylen Wilson. The views, opinions, and claims expressed by guests or contained in guest-provided media are their own. The Billy Dees Podcast and its producers do not independently verify or endorse those statements or claims.

September 5, 202639 min

The Power of Imagination - Christopher Kaufman on Music, Fantasy, Creativity and the Future of the Arts

In this episode of the Billy Dees Podcast, Billy sits down with composer, storyteller, educator, and creator Christopher Kaufman for a fascinating conversation about the power of imagination and the role of the arts in our lives. Kaufman shares the unusual creative journey that began with fantasy stories and illustrations as a child before leading him into classical music, advanced composition studies, and eventually his ambitious Tales of the Ocean City project—a multimedia blend of fantasy storytelling, narration, visual art, and symphonic music. The conversation explores why classical music may be less accessible to today's audiences, the importance of arts education, and how reading, music, and creative activities can strengthen imagination and influence the way we see the world. Kaufman also discusses why fantasy is more than escapism and how fictional characters and imaginary worlds can help us better understand real-life challenges. Billy and Christopher also take a thoughtful look at artificial intelligence and whether our growing reliance on technology could diminish independent thinking and creativity. Is technology simply another tool, or could it eventually begin replacing the very imagination that makes human creativity possible? A wide-ranging conversation about music, fantasy, education, technology, creativity, and what it means to keep the imagination alive. At the end of the podcast Christopher Kaufman presents his audio bio. Here, Christopher has the full physical book series and Audio Albums, Ebooks, and the new Video Books. He offers all kinds of discounts. https://talesoftheoceancity.com Follow Billy Dees on X https://x.com/BillyDees

August 29, 20261 hr 0 min

When Truth Becomes Controversial - Free Speech, Journalism, AI & Iran with George Fontes

Billy Dees sits down with George Fontes , host of the World Ablaze podcast, for a wide-ranging conversation about free speech, citizen journalism, politics, geopolitics, artificial intelligence, and the rapidly changing media landscape. Billy and George begin by discussing one of the frustrations facing independent podcasters and commentators: people reacting to headlines, titles, and short clips without actually listening to the conversation. They examine how shrinking attention spans, social media algorithms, and short-form content can take comments out of context and make meaningful discussion increasingly difficult. The conversation then turns to the controversy surrounding California's so-called Nick Shirley Act and the broader question of what qualifies someone as a journalist. Billy and George discuss citizen journalism, government accountability, the First Amendment, and whether independent investigators should have the same ability to ask questions and document public issues as journalists working for major media organizations. They also tackle the Lindsay Clancy case and the difficult questions surrounding accountability, mental health defenses, violent crime, and society's increasingly complicated attitudes toward heinous acts. From there, the discussion expands into data centers, America's AI race with China, the potential impact of artificial intelligence on national power, and concerns about preserving the character of American communities as technology and development accelerate. The final portion of the conversation turns to Iran , the Strait of Hormuz, U.S. foreign policy, America's relationships with its allies, and the difficult choices surrounding the country's confrontation with the Iranian regime. Billy and George also reflect on the state of independent podcasting itself, including censorship concerns, algorithms, the growing influence of major media companies, and why independent voices still need to keep producing and putting their work into the public square. It's a candid and sometimes provocative conversation about free speech, accountability, technology, geopolitics, and the challenges of trying to make sense of a rapidly changing America. George Fontes https://www.worldablazepodcast.com/ Follow Billy Dees on X https://x.com/BillyDees

August 21, 202653 min

Politics, Trust, and the Search for Common Sense- Billy Dees Talks with Chase Russell

In this episode of The Billy Dees Podcast, Billy sits down with Chase Russell, a political strategist, president of Gray Eagle Strategies, and author of Winning Without Millions for a wide-ranging conversation about the changing landscape of American politics. Russell shares his perspective on Florida politics and Byron Donalds, Ohio politics and Vivek Ramaswamy, and what it takes for candidates to compete without establishment backing or massive campaign budgets. The conversation also explores the growing influence of artificial intelligence, the debate surrounding data centers, political misinformation, free speech, citizen journalism, and the challenges candidates face in an increasingly polarized environment. Billy and Chase also take a deeper look at declining public trust, the appeal of socialism among younger voters, economic frustration, crime and personal responsibility, and the growing tendency to view politics through a tribal lens. Both argue for a return to honesty, accountability, critical thinking, and what Billy calls a little more common sense. It's a candid conversation about politics, technology, trust, and the future of American political discourse—with plenty of disagreement, perspective, and practical insight along the way. Note from the guest: At the official website for Chase Russell, you can find links to pre-order his book "Winning Without Millions" and subscribe to the email newsletter to stay up to date on all things happening in politics within Florida and the nation. https://www.chaserussellofficial.com/

August 21, 20261 hr 4 min

What Italy’s Soccer Struggles Can Teach America About Education, Work and Critical Thinking

Filmmaker and writer Sara Alessandrini returns to The Billy Dees Podcast for a thought-provoking conversation that begins with Italian soccer and expands into a broader discussion about education, work, critical thinking, immigration, and the future of American society. Drawing from her essay, “Italy’s Failure to Qualify for the World Cup Is a Warning to the United States, and It’s Not About Soccer, ” Sara explains how changes in youth sports—from creativity and individual initiative to rigid systems and conformity—mirror challenges facing schools, workplaces, and institutions in both Europe and America. Billy and Sara discuss the value of independent thinking, the shortcomings of modern education, workforce preparedness, higher education costs, immigration policy, healthcare systems, and the impact artificial intelligence may have on future generations. Along the way, they compare Italian and American culture, examine how societies develop talent, and ask an important question: Are we teaching people how to think, or simply what to think? This wide-ranging conversation offers thoughtful commentary, cultural comparisons, and fresh perspectives on some of today’s most important issues. Sara Alessandrini on X https://x.com/diswhatnyerssay Sara's article on Substack https://substack.com/home/post/p-209436428 Billy Dees on X https://x.com/BillyDees

August 14, 20261 hr 29 min

Fauci, Biden, and the DSA - Trust, Decline, and Empty Slogans - Simulcast Podcast

This episode is a simulcast among the Shades of Jade and Billy Dees Podcast. In this episode, host Sam reunites with filmmaker Sara Alessandrini and longtime podcaster Billy Dees for a wide-ranging conversation about the lasting fallout from COVID-era decisions and the growing crisis of public trust. They examine Anthony Fauci’s recent testimony, the controversy surrounding the handling of scientific dissent, and how differing lockdown experiences—from Italy and Los Angeles to Ohio and Iowa—shaped public perceptions. The conversation also explores the erosion of trust in health officials, the media, and public figures, along with the broader consequences of pandemic-era policies and messaging. From there, the discussion turns to Joe Biden’s cognitive decline, how his final campaign was presented to the public, speculation surrounding Hunter Biden’s political future, and the often-complicated relationship between politicians’ personal lives, public image, and actual records in office. You can find Billy Dees on X https://x.com/BillyDees Shades of Jade on X https://x.com/ShadesofJadePod and sara Alessandrini on X https://x.com/diswhatnyerssay

August 8, 202642 min

Truth Under Fire: Joel Rakow on Censorship, Politics & the Constitution

Billy Dees Podcast: Joel Rakow on Free Speech, Censorship, the Constitution, and Life in Woke America Billy Dees talks with author Joel Rakow about his novel Life in Woke America: A Family’s Story of Truth and Betrayal Under Fire , a work of fiction inspired by real events. Their wide-ranging conversation examines free speech, censorship, political polarization, institutional power, the COVID-19 era, and the importance of pursuing truth in a society where competing narratives increasingly collide. Rakow explains how real-world events, including the discovery of a Chinese biological laboratory in California and the subsequent congressional investigation, helped inspire his story. He also discusses what he describes as efforts to suppress or limit the visibility of his book and the broader implications of what is commonly called shadow banning. The conversation moves into a discussion of the U.S. Constitution and whether constitutional principles can provide a framework for evaluating political leaders, institutions, and public policy beyond traditional partisan arguments. Rakow also shares his concept for the Liberty Scorecard, an AI-powered tool intended to evaluate political actions and candidates through a constitutional lens. This is a thoughtful and sometimes provocative conversation about free expression, political movements, censorship, artificial intelligence, and the ongoing struggle to determine what is true in an increasingly fragmented information environment. As always, Billy Dees focuses on conversation rather than confrontation, giving the audience an opportunity to hear Rakow's perspective and consider the larger questions for themselves. Joel Rakow Website: https://www.lifeinwokeamerica.com/

July 30, 202659 min

The Evolution of Hollywood - How Movies Survived Every Revolution

Film history, Hollywood, streaming, and the future of cinema take center stage in this fascinating conversation with filmmaker Mike Scalere. Billy Dees welcomes Mike Scalere, a cinema studies graduate from NYU and former HBO and History Channel producer, for an engaging discussion about the evolution of movies and television. From Hollywood's Golden Age and the rise of television to blockbuster classics like Jaws, Star Wars, and The Godfather, they explore how technology has continually reshaped the film industry. The conversation also examines VHS vs. Beta, streaming services, IMAX, practical effects, Christopher Nolan, Steven Spielberg, Tom Cruise, and the growing influence of artificial intelligence on filmmaking. Along the way, they discuss why storytelling, craftsmanship, and the shared movie-going experience remain essential despite rapid technological change. Whether you're a filmmaker, movie buff, or simply love great conversations about cinema, this episode offers thoughtful insights into where Hollywood has been—and where it's headed next. Find Mike on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@Scalerious and TikTok @Scalerious Follow Billy Dees on X https://x.com/BillyDees