The Professional Noticer

On this week’s episode of The Professional Noticer, Andy welcomes Herb Hughes—science fiction novelist, and Steve Woods—AI engineer at General Dynamics, for a fast, funny, and thought-provoking look at where artificial intelligence is really headed. Tune in to hear Herb and Steve join Andy for a fascinating–sometimes unsettling–conversation about how much of today’s technology was first imagined in science fiction. From Asimov’s predictions to real-world AI breakthroughs, the trio explores where artificial intelligence is taking us—touching on machine learning, quantum computing, and the line between imagination and reality—and asks the big question: will AI ever truly become self-aware? Works by Herb Hughes Killing Rhinos (sci-fi with long-term AI/robotic consequences) https://amzn.to/3KRYTmd Conecuh (Civil War historical fiction) https://amzn.to/46TCspk Connect with Steve and Herb Online:  Steve Woods: stevewoods500@gmail.com Herb Hughes: HerbHughes1994@att.net www.herbhughesnovels.us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100040197231582 Order Herb’s books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B001K83DZ0

On this week’s episode of The Professional Noticer, Andy hosts John O’Leary—bestselling author, sought-after speaker, and producer of the new feature film Soul on Fire. Tune in to hear John share the “two chapters” behind his story—the miraculous rescue at age nine and the years of hiding before finally learning to live openly—while honoring the people he says are the true heroes: the nurses, the neighbors, his dad, and his wife, Beth. Listen as he recounts his father’s moving reflection after seeing the film, and explains why Soul on Fire offers a powerful and timely reminder that ordinary courage and grace can still change lives. Soul on Fire Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CslVGLETWps Connect with John online:  Website: https://johnolearyinspires.com/johns-story/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JohnOLearyRisingAbove LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-o-leary-08b2805/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnoleary.inspires/ Twitter: https://x.com/jolearyinspires YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRXJIPZAni0_zakjCFh5VTQ

On this week’s episode of The Professional Noticer, Andy hosts Sean Dietrich—“Sean of the South”—author, musician, humorist, and frequent Grand Ole Opry guest. Tune in to hear Sean share stories behind “Over Yonder”—a tender, funny tale of “found family” set on Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Listen as he and Andy talk about the unlikely duo at the heart of the story, why Sean writes about places as if they’re characters, and how his outline-free process keeps each book full of surprises. Hear him also share a few audiobook mishaps, uncanny Opry moments, and a peanut-butter-Kong lesson from his blind dog Marigold that remind him to keep humility—and joy—at the center of it all. Sean’s brand-new novel "Over Yonder" is officially out today! This heartfelt Southern tale is filled with humor, redemption, and characters you won’t forget. Don’t wait—be among the very first to read it. Order your copy on Amazon right now and start the adventure! https://amzn.to/4h6COfO Connect with Sean Online: Podcast: Sean of the South https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sean-of-the-south/id1296676213  Website: https://seandietrich.com  Newsletter: https://seandietrich.com/subscribe/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/seanofthesouth Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seanofthesouth

On this week’s episode of The Professional Noticer, Andy welcomes his Communications Director, Tami Nantz – author of the brand-new book "This Isn’t the Life I Prayed For: A Study of the Book of Job." Tune in to hear Tami share why she wrote "This Isn’t the Life I Prayed For," the story behind its message, and why Job’s journey—so often misunderstood—is really about relationship and ultimately a book of hope that reminds us God is still faithful, even when life doesn’t look the way we prayed it would. Listen as she and Andy talk about the reality of suffering, the process of writing, the encouragement she hopes readers will take away—and why Andy calls this “the book America needs right now.” Pre-Order the physical book at TamiNantz.com,and you'll also receive a download for the PDF ebook within 24-hours! Connect with Tami Online:  Website: TamiNantz.com Email: TamiNantzWrites@gmail.com 

In this week’s Encore Episode of The Professional Noticer, Andy hosts author Peter Grainger–creator of the bestselling series of crime novels…DC Smith Investigations.  Tune in to hear Peter share details about the multiple series he’s written, why his books are currently offered only in E-book and audio formats, and how and when he started writing. Listen as he reveals how and where he conducts his research, and why Andy believes he’s one of the top five authors he’s ever read! Encore Episode Announcement: The DC Smith Investigation series is coming to paperback! Pre-order from Amazon UK today! https://amzn.eu/d/guAUYee Connect with Peter Online: Website: https://www.petergrainger.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/petergraingerDCSmith/ Pick up the first book from the DC Smith Investigation series: An Accidental Death: https://amzn.eu/d/guAUYee  

In this week’s Encore Episode of The Professional Noticer, Andy hosts Dr. Henry Cloud – a clinical psychologist, pastor to pastors, and New York Times bestselling author.  Tune in to hear Dr. Cloud introduce his latest book, Why I Believe: A Psychologist’s Thoughts on Suffering, Miracles, Science, and Faith. Listen as he discusses the challenge of sharing faith with close friends and recounts a transformative college experience during deep depression, as well as a miraculous childhood event. Hear him address difficult questions about God's role in suffering, the coexistence of science and faith, the pain caused by abuse and hypocrisy within the church, and why free will is necessary for genuine love. Purchase Why I Believe: A Psychologist's Thoughts on Suffering, Miracles, Science, and Faith: https://amzn.to/3VTJKm5 Connect with Dr. Cloud Online:  Website: https://www.drcloud.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrHenryCloud YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/DrHenryCloud Twitter: https://twitter.com/drhenrycloud Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drhenrycloudofficial/

On this week’s episode of The Professional Noticer, Andy shares powerful insights into leadership and culture—through the lens of Alabama football. Tune in to hear Andy unpack Alabama’s struggles since Nick Saban’s retirement and reveal why culture—not talent—drives lasting success. Hear him explain how discipline, retention, and consistency expose the true state of any team or business, and share practical insights for leaders who want to strengthen culture daily rather than rely on past success. To find out more about how I coach entire organizations and change their culture, check out CreatingMeasurableResults.com or YourCMR.com

Buckle up—because this episode is not just about a restaurant chain. Join Andy Andrews as he delivers a cautionary tale for every leader, every business owner, and really, for all of us: you can’t fix a culture problem with white paint and a new logo. And when you try… well, Cracker Barrel just showed the world what happens.” Not many companies can afford to pour almost a billion dollars down the drain with nothing to show for it but embarrassment. Can Cracker Barrel? We’ll see...

In this week’s encore episode of The Professional Noticer, Andy hosts Chris Thomas – Entrepreneur, Podcaster, and Professional Southern Gentleman. Tune in to hear Andy and Chris share a lively conversation about all things southern! Listen as Chris shares the fun details about his company, Made South – how it got started, how it’s going today, the blessings and challenges of entrepreneurship, and much, much more! ✨ And don’t miss your chance to experience Made South in person at the 2025 MADE SOUTH Holiday Market – happening Friday, November 21 and Saturday, November 22, inside Liberty Hall at The Factory in historic Franklin, Tennessee. Do your Christmas shopping with 60+ makers and artisans from around the South, and enjoy what Food & Wine Magazine calls “the best holiday market in the state of Tennessee!” 🎁 Even better – Andy and Austin will be there as vendors! Andy will be selling and signing books, and Austin will be showcasing his Austin Legacy Knives and Mama’s Secret Weapon spoons. It’s the perfect opportunity to shop small, and support small business. Be sure to stop by and say hello! 👉 Grab your tickets now: https://www.madesouthmarket.com/made-south-holiday-market Connect with Chris Online: Website: https://www.madesouth.com/ Stickers: https://goodsoutherner.com/ Cocktail Mixers: https://elimason.com/ Podcast: https://www.madesouth.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/madesouth Twitter: https://twitter.com/christhomas LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherhthomas/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christhomas/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@madesouth AirBnB: https://www.airbnb.com/users/show/450614261

On this week’s episode of The Professional Noticer, Andy welcomes Bryan Chandler – owner of Silverhill Mill in Silverhill, Alabama. Tune in to hear Bryan share the story of how he and his wife, Rhee, built Silverhill Mill from the ground up and how the business has grown since he last appeared on the podcast. Listen as he and Andy swap stories about the types of trees and wood Bryan works with, the beautiful products he creates, and what inspired him to step into this unique line of work. Connect with Bryan Online:  Email: silverhillmill@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/silverhillmill  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silverhill_mill/

On this week’s episode of The Professional Noticer, Andy welcomes Ben Ragsdale – pastor of Worship on the Water at the Flora-Bama in Orange Beach, Alabama. Tune in to hear Andy and his pastor share the story behind Worship on the Water, how Ben and his family became part of it, and what makes attending church in a bar on the beach such a beautifully unique experience. Connect with Ben online:  Website: https://www.worshiponthewater.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/florabamachurch  

On this week’s episode of The Professional Noticer, Andy shares a powerful moment from his personal archives—one he’s never presented anywhere else. Tune in to hear a compelling story that feels even more relevant today than when it was first recorded. Have you felt the tension in conversations lately? The weight of cultural conflict? The weariness of a world full of division? If so, you’re not alone. Listen as Andy revisits a day that changed his life—a powerful example of how a single choice can shift everything. In a time when many are questioning whether we’ve passed the point of no return, this episode offers hope, clarity, and one overlooked truth that could still make a lasting difference for families, communities, and entire generations.

This week on The Professional Noticer, Andy holds a discussion with YOU.   Tune in to hear Andy’s take on an article from one of his favorite writers, “The Honest Broker,” Ted Gioia. The article dissects a dangerous aspect to Artificial Intelligence and Andy seems to agree. When you hear what NPR, The Atlantic, and The Wall Street Journal have reported, will you decide “no big deal?” Or will you be as disturbed as Andy? See if you can discern the truth in this shocking episode. Follow Ted's "The Honest Broker" on Substack: https://www.honest-broker.com/

This week on The Professional Noticer, we’re revisiting one of the most surprising and inspiring episodes in our archive: Songs of the Seven Decisions with Armon J. Newton and Albert Burgos Jr.   Armon and Albert—longtime friends who met in South San Francisco—share the story behind their extraordinary collaboration. From childhood passions and winding career paths to the moment they secretly produced an entire album based on The Seven Decisions (before Andy—or anyone—knew it existed!), this conversation is packed with creativity, vision, and heart.   You’ll hear how their musical journey began, what inspired the project, and why their work continues to resonate today.   🎵 Want to hear the Songs of the Seven Decisions? Watch the Music Videos Here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLh0deUu0Iv2nw8cgs4wcRFccDEQ-EB9Ta   You might recognize Armon as one of our favorite Contributors at WisdomHarbour.com   Whether he’s revealing how military research led to the internet, explaining the surprising history of the potato chip, or unpacking the power of imperfection—Armon delivers engaging, meaningful content that always teaches…and often makes us laugh.   Join today, and get access to wisdom from Armon and our 27 other Contributors!   Dive Deeper Into The Seven Decisions: https://andyandrews.com/product/the-seven-decisions/   More from Armon J. Newton: Website: https://www.armonjnewton.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/armonthehost/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/armon.newton   More from Albert Burgos Jr. / Aburgz Production: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aburgzproduction/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ABurgzMusic/

On this week’s episode of The Professional Noticer, Andy welcomes Joe Pici — #1 Sales Trainer/Training System in the world and Host of the Sales Edge Podcast. Tune in to hear Joe share practical, battle-tested wisdom on how to rebound after a setback and how he got back in the game by plugging into a proven process and rebuilding confidence through the basics. Listen as Andy and Joe also talk about the power of real human connection in an automated world, why sales is the skill every entrepreneur and employee must master, and how consistent, simple actions can turn any setback into a comeback. Want to learn directly from Joe? Text SALESEDGE to 59925 for exclusive offers, including $500 off his top-rated Sales Boot Camp and coaching programs — plus, you’ll even get a complimentary “Cup of Joe!” Connect with Joe Online:  Websites: www.PiciandPici.com and SellMoreVirtually.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PiciandPici/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/joepici YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PiciandpiciInc Twitter (X): https://x.com/piciandpici

On this week’s episode of The Professional Noticer, Andy welcomes the person he has called The Most Interesting Man in the World, Walt Merrell — District Attorney of Covington County, Alabama, and author of the Shepherding Outdoors series. Tune in to hear Walt share a few unforgettable stories that prove hope can show up in the wildest places (sometimes thanks to a pack of feral cats), plus laughs about courtroom pantyhose rules, horseback DUIs, and the scabies incident you’ll wish you could unhear. Listen as he and Andy discuss why restoring families is the real key to fighting crime, how laughter and storytelling help him handle the darkest parts of his job, and how Shepherding Outdoors keeps him grounded when life gets downright messy — socks or no socks. Connect with Walt Online: Website: ShepherdingBook.com  Email: shepherdingoutdoors@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shepherdingoutdoors Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shepherding_outdoors/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ShepherdingOutdoors

On this week’s episode of The Professional Noticer, Andy welcomes Dr. Amanda Vanderheyden — school psychologist, education policy advisor, thought leader, and founder of Spring Math. Tune in to hear Amanda share why better instruction — not just more money — is the real key to improving education outcomes, and why all kids can learn math when given the right tools. Listen as she and Andy talk about her journey from early mental health work to influencing federal law, the story behind Spring Math’s success in classrooms across the U.S. and around the world, and what she’s learned about leadership, culture, and putting resources to work wisely.  Connect with Amanda Online Website: https://www.springmath.org/ Twitter: https://x.com/amandavande1  

On this week’s episode of The Professional Noticer, Andy hosts Rick Burgess — radio host, bestselling author, speaker, and founder of The Man Church. Tune in to hear Rick share stories and lessons from his father’s coaching legacy, his own journey of faith, and the personal challenges of writing Men Don’t Run in the Rain. Hear him reflect on how his father’s coaching shaped his values, the bond between fathers and sons, and how sports, faith, and family build character—as well as the hardest parts of writing, the wisdom that continues to shape his life, and why old-school values still matter. Buy the book: https://amzn.to/44ikuKE Connect with Rick Online  https://www.rickburgessshow.com/ https://www.themanchurch.com/ https://www.burgessministries.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therickburgessshow/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rickburgessshow Twitter: https://x.com/bigvox?lang=en Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rickbigvoxburgess/?hl=en

On this week’s episode of The Professional Noticer, Andy sits down with Wisdom Harbour contributors Emily Isbell Cavaluzzi and Briley Crisafi for a behind-the-scenes conversation about what makes Wisdom Harbour so unique. Tune in to hear them discuss what sets Wisdom Harbour apart — fun, educational, truly family-friendly content you won’t find on YouTube. You’ll get to know Emily and Briley as they share their creative journeys, favorite Wisdom Harbour pieces, and why this work matters to them. It’s a closer look at the heart, humor, and vision behind the platform — and the perfect introduction to two of the many voices helping shape its growing library, whether you're already part of the Wisdom Harbour family or just curious to learn more. Join Wisdom Harbour: https://wisdomharbour.com/plans/ Connect with Emily and Briley Online:  Emily: https://wisdomharbour.com/archive/emily-isbell/ Briley: https://wisdomharbour.com/archive/briley-crisafi/

On this week’s episode of The Professional Noticer, Andy hosts the dynamic husband-and-wife duo Sugarcane Jane — Anthony Crawford and Savana Lee. Tune in to hear Anthony and Savana share stories that span decades of music, marriage, and the unexpected joy of finding harmony—in both. From touring with legends like Neil Young and Steve Winwood to raising a family and building a life on Alabama’s Gulf Coast, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how two extraordinary talents created something beautifully original—complete with favorite songs, road stories, and reflections on what truly matters. Connect with Sugarcane Jane Online:  Website: https://www.sugarcanejane.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sugarcanejanemusic Twitter (X): https://x.com/sugarcanejane YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/sugarcanejane Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sugarcanejane/