The Tragedy Academy - podcast cover

The Tragedy Academy

Non Purus Scolam, llcwww.thetragedyacademy.com
The Tragedy Academy Podcast is a show that explores the human experience through the lens of tragedy and triumph. We aim to help listeners grow and thrive by sharing stories of real people who have experienced adversity and success. Hosted by Jay Hicks, a veteran, music producer, and multimedia artist, along with co-host Gary DeFranco, an Emmy-nominated executive producer with 20 years of experience producing non-scripted television, The Tragedy Academy Podcast provides a unique perspective on life’s challenges and how to overcome them. Our guests come from all walks of life and share their stories of struggle and triumph. We believe that our past does not define our future and that living authentically and purposefully is the key to a fulfilling life. Through candid and humorous discussions, we explore societal divides and bridge gaps in understanding. We believe that laughter is the best fertilizer for the tree of knowledge, and that’s why we bring you stories that will make you t...

Episodes

Unlocking the Mind: A Conversation with Memory Champion John Graham

Dive into the depths of the human mind with ”Unlocking the Mind: A Conversation with Memory Champion John Graham,” where host Jay of The Tragedy Academy Podcast engages in a compelling dialogue with three-time USA Memory Champion and Grandmaster of Memory, John Graham. 🎙️ Together, they unravel the mysteries of memory techniques, mindfulness, and authentic living, offering listeners practical insights and inspiration to harness their mental potential and overcome life’s challenges. 🌟

Aug 12, 20241 hr 3 min

Navigating the Immigrant Experience: A Conversation with Krishnni Khanna

In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, host Jay Hicks interviews Krishnni Khanna, a 16-year-old author and TEDx speaker from India, about her immigration to the U.S. in 2017. Krishnni shares the challenges and cultural adjustments she faced as a child, which inspired her book ”I Am Not Who You See.” She discusses the importance of expressing emotions, authenticity, and supportive friendships. Krishnni also talks about her future plans in psychology and neuroscience and her initiative, D...

Aug 05, 202454 min

The Power of Self-Awareness: Being Present and Non-Judgmental with AmiLynne Carroll

In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, Jay engages in a profound conversation with AmiLynne Carroll, a certified Holistic Practitioner and Holistic Life Coach. They explore the complexities of communication, highlighting the importance of understanding cultural contexts and the limitations of direct translations. AmiLynne shares personal anecdotes and insights on overcoming challenges, emphasizing the power of authenticity, self-awareness, and empathy in building meaningful connections....

Jul 30, 20241 hr 21 min

The Healing Arts: Joy Giovanni on Embracing Authenticity

In this episode, Jay and Gary have a captivating discussion with Joy Giovanni, a former WWE Diva who has transitioned into a psychic medium. They delve into her extraordinary journey of embracing her true self and navigating significant personal and professional changes. Joy opens up about her struggles with inauthenticity, the challenges of her WWE career, and the profound process of becoming a medium. The conversation explores the emotional and spiritual aspects of self-discovery, the science ...

Jul 22, 20241 hr 11 min

Harnessing Positive Psychology: A Discussion on Take Two Minutes with Marc S. Fussell

In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, host Jay welcomes Mark Fussell, founder of the nonprofit Take Two Minutes. Together, they delve into mindfulness, gratitude, and mental well-being. Mark shares the origins and features of Take Two Minutes, a web application offering positive psychology activities through text messaging. Their discussion highlights the benefits of a gratitude challenge and proper sleep hygiene for mental health, emphasizing the importance of internal reflection and ...

Jul 15, 202456 min

Enhancing Parental Guidance: Building Strong Identities in Children with M. Aurelias Higgs

In this heartwarming and insightful episode, Jay interviews Aurelius Higgs, a coach focused on mental well-being and character development in children. They delve into the importance of establishing a solid sense of self-worth in preteens before societal pressures take over, parents’ crucial role in nurturing their children’s authentic selves, and the impact of social media on young minds. Aurelius shares his approach to project-based living to bond with children, support their developmental jou...

Jul 08, 20241 hr 8 min

"The Florida Bushman's Journey: Finding Joy in Every Scare"

In this captivating episode, ”The Florida Bushman’s Journey: Finding Joy in Every Scare,” we delve into the inspiring life of Chris Hunt, known as the Florida Bushman. Born with a congenital heart defect and having undergone multiple open-heart surgeries, Chris faced numerous health challenges, including a leukemia diagnosis and a stroke. Despite these obstacles, he embraced life with humor and resilience, creating the Florida Bushman persona to spread laughter and mindfulness. Join us as Chris ...

Jul 01, 202457 min

"The Florida Bushman's Journey: Finding Joy in Every Scare" | Video

In this captivating episode, ”The Florida Bushman’s Journey: Finding Joy in Every Scare,” we delve into the inspiring life of Chris Hunt, known as the Florida Bushman. Born with a congenital heart defect and having undergone multiple open-heart surgeries, Chris faced numerous health challenges, including a leukemia diagnosis and a stroke. Despite these obstacles, he embraced life with humor and resilience, creating the Florida Bushman persona to spread laughter and mindfulness. Join us as Chris ...

Jul 01, 202457 min

Justin Long on Overcoming Trauma, Toxic Masculinity, and Finding Self-Worth

In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, host Jay Hicks sits down with Justin Long, an advocate against toxic masculinity and author of the book The Righteous Rage of a 10-Year-Old Boy. They discuss Justin’s journey through a traumatic childhood, his struggles with alcohol, and the transformative power of therapy, particularly EMDR. They explore emotional health, the impact of toxic masculinity, and the importance of self-acceptance and vulnerability. Join them for a candid and insightful...

Jun 24, 20241 hr 5 min

Finding Calm Amidst Chaos with Ann Swanson

In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, host Jay Hicks welcomes the insightful Ann Swanson, a yoga therapist and author, to discuss the art of finding calm amidst chaos. Ann shares her transformative journey with yoga and meditation, revealing practical tips and the profound benefits of these practices for both body and mind. From a quick guided meditation to hilarious anecdotes, this episode is packed with wisdom and humor, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and self-care in our ...

Jun 17, 202447 min

Finding Calm Amidst Chaos with Ann Swanson | Video

In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, host Jay Hicks welcomes the insightful Ann Swanson, a yoga therapist and author, to discuss the art of finding calm amidst chaos. Ann shares her transformative journey with yoga and meditation, revealing practical tips and the profound benefits of these practices for both body and mind. From a quick guided meditation to hilarious anecdotes, this episode is packed with wisdom and humor, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and self-care in our ...

Jun 17, 202447 min

Embracing Authenticity in Writing with Meg Calvin

In this enlightening episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, Jay sits down with Meg Calvin, a distinguished writing and marketing coach known for helping authors craft, market, and sell Amazon Best-Selling Books. They delve into the essence of authentic writing, highlighting how vulnerability and self-worth can transform one’s creative process and impact readers deeply. Meg shares practical tips to overcome the fear of judgment, revealing how staying true to oneself is essential. Tune in for inv...

Jun 10, 20241 hr 9 min

Capturing True Essence: The Power of Photography with Elizabeth Snyder | Video

In this inspiring episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, master photographer Elizabeth Snyder shares her remarkable journey from trauma to triumph, overcoming poverty, abuse, and neglect to achieve a successful and fulfilling life. Liz discusses how her passion for photography empowers thousands of women by capturing their true essence and helping them embrace their beauty and worth despite societal pressures and personal insecurities. She also delves into her battles with cancer and the import...

Jun 03, 20241 hr 5 min

Capturing True Essence: The Power of Photography with Elizabeth Snyder

In this inspiring episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, master photographer Elizabeth Snyder shares her remarkable journey from trauma to triumph, overcoming poverty, abuse, and neglect to achieve a successful and fulfilling life. Liz discusses how her passion for photography empowers thousands of women by capturing their true essence and helping them embrace their beauty and worth despite societal pressures and personal insecurities. She also delves into her battles with cancer and the import...

Jun 03, 20241 hr 5 min

Sound as a Path to Healing with Jeralyn Glass

In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, Jay and Gary are joined by the remarkable Jeralyn Glass, an acclaimed singer and pioneering figure in Sound Healing. 🌟 Dive into an inspiring conversation about the transformative power of music as a universal language that heals and connects deeply with our emotions. 🎼✨ Jeralyn shares her journey from opera stages worldwide to her groundbreaking work in sound healing, detailing how crystal sound meditation, authenticity in music, and integrating...

May 27, 20241 hr 4 min

Sound as a Path to Healing with Jeralyn Glass | Video

In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, Jay and Gary are joined by the remarkable Jeralyn Glass, an acclaimed singer and pioneering figure in Sound Healing. 🌟 Dive into an inspiring conversation about the transformative power of music as a universal language that heals and connects deeply with our emotions. 🎼✨ Jeralyn shares her journey from opera stages worldwide to her groundbreaking work in sound healing, detailing how crystal sound meditation, authenticity in music, and integrating...

May 27, 20241 hr 4 min

Bonus Live & Uncut! Detention Episode: Unfiltered Conversations and Hilarious Escapades" Part II

In Part 2 of this special ”Detention” episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, Jay, Dre, and cohost Gary continue their uproarious and enlightening journey through life’s absurdities. From Gary’s wild Canadian club fiasco involving coins to Jay’s unique experience at Dre’s bachelor party, complete with stripper rivalries and economic lessons, the laughs keep coming. They also delve into nostalgic reflections on disposable cameras and heated debates about AI’s impact on creativity. This episode ma...

May 20, 202449 min

Bonus Live & Uncut! Detention Episode: Unfiltered Conversations and Hilarious Escapades" Part 1

Get ready for a wild journey with Jay, Gary, Dre, and Niki on The Tragedy Academy’s ’Detention’ episode, where unfiltered fun and candid conversations take center stage. Part 1 of this special two-part series is a rollercoaster of humor, revelations, and heartfelt banter among lifelong friends. From Jay’s bachelor party adventures to debates on AI’s impact on creativity, expect an entertaining ride blended with unexpected insights. Jump into the laughter and wisdom as Jay, Dre, and Niki navigate...

May 10, 202450 min

Empowering Your Authentic Self with Manny Bains

In this riveting episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, hosts Jay and Gary delve into the essence of authenticity, personal growth, and the transformative art of filmmaking with Manny Bains, a visionary from Toronto who transitioned from corporate life to making waves in the entertainment and entrepreneurial world. Manny’s inspiring journey, enriched by personal development and accented with a passion for storytelling, offers invaluable insights into pursuing one’s passions against societal nor...

May 03, 20241 hr 5 min

Empowering Your Authentic Self with Manny Bains | Video

In this riveting episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, hosts Jay and Gary delve into the essence of authenticity, personal growth, and the transformative art of filmmaking with Manny Bains, a visionary from Toronto who transitioned from corporate life to making waves in the entertainment and entrepreneurial world. Manny’s inspiring journey, enriched by personal development and accented with a passion for storytelling, offers invaluable insights into pursuing one’s passions against societal nor...

May 03, 20241 hr 5 min

Unmasking Femininity and Embracing the Present: A Conversation with Leslie Draffin

In this riveting episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, former TV news anchor Leslie Draffin reveals her empowering shift to a somatic psychedelic guide, exploring her past disguised in the facade of on-screen perfection and her subsequent embrace of femininity and vulnerability through the healing experiences with psilocybin. Leslie candidly shares her personal battles with mental health, substance dependence, and the profound impact of spiritual awakening on her journey to self-discovery. The...

Apr 29, 20241 hr 5 min

Unveiling the Masks: An Exploration of Personal Authenticity with Jisun Sunny Fisher, Ph.D.

Unlock the doors to your true self with this captivating episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, where hosts Jay and Gary engage in an evocative dialogue with psychologist and author, Dr. Jisun Sunny Fisher. Delve into an exploration of authenticity, the underlying narratives that dictate our daily lives, and the pathways to curate a life soaked in intention and purpose. This episode will challenge you to contemplate the masks we wear and the importance of living an existence unfettered by socie...

Apr 15, 202458 min

Overcoming Addiction: Bruce W. Brackett's Journey to Positivity

In this profound episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, join hosts Jay Hicks and Gary DeFranco as they engage with the dynamic Bruce W. Brackett, delving into his transformative journey from addiction to becoming a source of inspiration and positivity. Bruce’s raw and genuine story not only reflects his battle and victory over addiction but also emphasizes the significance of authenticity, resilience, and the power of art in recovery. This conversation is an inspirational beacon for anyone navi...

Apr 08, 202458 min

Overcoming Addiction: Bruce W. Brackett's Journey to Positivity | Video

In this profound episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, join hosts Jay Hicks and Gary DeFranco as they engage with the dynamic Bruce W. Brackett, delving into his transformative journey from addiction to becoming a source of inspiration and positivity. Bruce’s raw and genuine story not only reflects his battle and victory over addiction but also emphasizes the significance of authenticity, resilience, and the power of art in recovery. This conversation is an inspirational beacon for anyone navi...

Apr 08, 20241 hr

Scott Edwards - Comedy Club Pioneer & Entrepreneur

In this captivating episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, titled ”Scott Edwards - Comedy Club Pioneer & Entrepreneur,” hosts Jay Hicks and Gary DeFranco take listeners on a journey through the life of Scott Edwards, who carved a niche in the comedy world by launching one of the first comedy clubs in the US. Edwards shares tales from his 40-year career, including working with comedic legends like Jay Leno, Bob Saget, and Robin Williams. He offers a blend of humor and wisdom that enlightens the ...

Apr 01, 20241 hr 11 min

Embracing Vulnerability: A Journey to Self-Love with Furkhan Dandia

In the latest episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, host Jay converses with Furkhan Dandia, an engineer turned therapist and advocate for mental health. This episode delves into Furkhan’s transformative journey towards embracing vulnerability and redefining masculinity. It highlights how therapy propelled him towards profound self-awareness and how he leveraged his personal struggles to inspire and cultivate a support system among men. Listeners will find encouragement in Furkhan’s advocacy fo...

Mar 25, 202459 min

Embracing Vulnerability: A Journey to Self-Love with Furkhan Dandia | Video

In the latest episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, host Jay converses with Furkhan Dandia, an engineer turned therapist and advocate for mental health. This episode delves into Furkhan’s transformative journey towards embracing vulnerability and redefining masculinity. It highlights how therapy propelled him towards profound self-awareness and how he leveraged his personal struggles to inspire and cultivate a support system among men. Listeners will find encouragement in Furkhan’s advocacy fo...

Mar 25, 202459 min

Navigating Creativity and Adversity with Stephen V. Stone

In this thought-provoking episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, hosts Jay Hicks and Gary DeFranco are joined by Stephen V. Stone, an award-winning filmmaker whose journey through Complex Regional Pain Syndrome has led him to remarkable achievements in the film industry. Stone shares his inspirational story of resilience, creativity, and the power of embracing one’s limitations. Listeners will be captivated by his insights into overcoming adversity, the transformative role of technology in art,...

Mar 22, 20241 hr 6 min

Navigating Creativity and Adversity with Stephen V. Stone | Video

In this thought-provoking episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, hosts Jay Hicks and Gary DeFranco are joined by Stephen V. Stone, an award-winning filmmaker whose journey through Complex Regional Pain Syndrome has led him to remarkable achievements in the film industry. Stone shares his inspirational story of resilience, creativity, and the power of embracing one’s limitations. Listeners will be captivated by his insights into overcoming adversity, the transformative role of technology in art,...

Mar 18, 20241 hr 6 min

Unveiling Synesthesia: Heather Eck's Artistic Journey

In ”Unveiling Synesthesia: Heather Eck’s Artistic Journey” on The Tragedy Academy Podcast, host Jay explores the vibrant world of synesthetic artist Heather Eck. This episode delves into Heather’s unique ability to blend color, emotion, and spirituality through her art, highlighting her journey from an army brat to a renowned artist. The discussion covers the transformative power of art, overcoming societal pressures, and the therapeutic potential of creativity, offering insights into the signif...

Mar 11, 20241 hr 3 min