WV Uncommon Place

Season 7 Trailer. A little commentary to get you geared up for this upcoming season . --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wvuncommonplace/message

Jamie stops by and talks about life during Covid 19 . Also a serious topic that shouldn’t be missed . *Early episode from the archive .. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wvuncommonplace/message

Welcome to West Virginia Common Place! Today, J.R. delves into the timeless classic and groundbreaking game, Super Mario 64, placing it at number three in his top ten video games of all time. Game Overview: Super Mario 64, released in 1996, stands as a monumental milestone in gaming history, being the first-ever Super Mario title featuring revolutionary 3D gameplay. J.R. highlights its impact on the gaming landscape, setting new standards for open-world sandbox-style gameplay. Personal Gaming Experience: Reflecting on the game's influence on his gaming skills, J.R. reminisces about his journey collecting all 120 power stars, the main goal being to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser. Super Mario 64 held the honor of being the first game J.R. completed 100%, despite not revisiting it frequently due to the lasting impression it left. Revolutionizing 3D Gaming: Acknowledging the game's revolutionary elements, J.R. underscores its innovative mechanics, from Mario's diverse movements to camera controls. The game's fluidity and the freedom it provided in a 3D environment set the stage for future 3D games. Chasing the Super Mario 64 High: Expressing a sentiment shared by many, J.R. discusses how Super Mario 64 set an impossibly high standard for subsequent Mario games. Despite the series' continued success with games like Odyssey or Sunshine, none managed to capture the unique feeling and excitement that Super Mario 64 evoked. Nostalgic Returns: J.R. briefly touches on the DS version in 2004, which added extra characters, providing a fresh take on the classic. He suggests considering Super Mario 64 DS for a different gameplay experience. Closing Thoughts: Encouraging listeners to explore or revisit the game, J.R. emphasizes the game's reputation as one of the greatest ever made. He expresses gratitude for the continued support and invites engagement from followers on his top ten video games series. Join the Conversation: Share your experiences or thoughts on Super Mario 64 using #SuperMario64 and #GreatestGameOfAllTime on social media. Conclusion: Thank you for tuning in to West Virginia Common Place! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and join us next time as we explore more iconic games. This is J.R. signing off! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wvuncommonplace/message

Tina Davidson, a renowned classical composer with over four decades of experience, embarked on a journey into memoir writing with her deeply moving title, "Let Your Heart Be Broken." Raised in a foster home in Sweden before being adopted by an American mother, Tina's personal odyssey greatly influenced her musical compositions. Her perspective on her memoir is centered around the concept of heartbreak being a transformative experience. Through her own trials with loss, trauma, and major life changes, she urges readers to face their heartbreak head-on. As Davidson sees it, pain can be a catalyst for growth, rebirth, and healing. By sharing her own experiences with composing music and authoring her memoir, she seeks to inspire others to delve into their emotions, connect with their inner selves, and find purpose in their experiences. Ultimately, Davidson's perspective underscores the importance of vulnerability, introspection, and resilience in overcoming adversity. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wvuncommonplace/message

Mega Man Legends[a] is an action-adventure shooter game released by Capcom. It is the first game in the Mega Man Legends sub-series of Mega Man games from Capcom, and the second major 3D polygonal Mega Man title released in the franchise, following Mega Man: Battle & Chase.[1] It was released for PlayStation in 1997 in Japan, and in 1998 in North America. A Nintendo 64 port was released in 2000 with the same title, but it was renamed Mega Man 64 for the English release in 2001. It was also ported to Windows in 2001, and PlayStation Portable in 2005, the latter only in Japan. It was last released as a PS one Classicthrough North American PlayStation Network in 2015. Legends stars a different spiritual incarnation of Mega Man named Mega Man Volnutt, the game's player character. Mega Man Volnutt is a "Digger," a person in charge of investigating ruins from a flooded Earth. During his journey with his friends, their ship crashes on Kattelox Island, where Mega Man confronts pirates attacking it to obtain its hidden treasure. As an action-adventure game, Mega Man Legends's gameplay is vastly different from that of the original series, despite sharing a few elements. Mega Man Legends received a positive critical response due to the series' jump from 2D graphics to 3D. Ports for Nintendo 64 and Windows received negative comments for lacking updates from the PlayStation version, whose graphics were considered outdated by the time the ports were released. Mega Man Legends was followed by the prequel The Misadventures of Tron Bonne and a sequel titled Mega Man Legends 2 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wvuncommonplace/message

Welcome back to West Virginia Common Place! Today, J.R. is delving into the enthralling world of classic video games, spotlighting the unforgettable WCW vs. NWA World Tour, ranking it as his number four game of all time. Game Overview: WCW vs. NWA World Tour, released in 1997, holds a special place in J.R.'s gaming journey. With a heartfelt story behind its acquisition, this game marked the beginning of an era, captivating the essence of classic wrestling games. Nostalgic Memories: J.R. reminisces about the excitement of bringing WCW vs. NWA World Tour home before its official release, becoming the envy of the neighborhood. Fond memories are shared of after-school gaming sessions, with four-player co-op rumble matches setting the stage for incredible wrestling showdowns. Gameplay Experience: Exploring the game's mechanics and character selection, J.R. highlights the fluidity of moves, including exciting maneuvers outside the ring, and shares personal favorites among the character roster, featuring Ultimo Dragon and a custom character, the Black Ninja. Influence & Legacy: This classic game paved the way for professional wrestling games, serving as the precursor to the later wrestling titles. Its influence on subsequent wrestling games, especially on the Nintendo 64, cannot be overstated, setting a high standard for the genre. Impact on Wrestling Games: Reflecting on the impact of WCW vs. NWA World Tour, J.R. discusses how it laid the foundation for future wrestling titles, serving as a cornerstone for games that followed. The game's storyline involving WCW vs. NWA added a unique touch to the gaming experience. Closing Thoughts: J.R. concludes by recommending this game as a must-play for wrestling game enthusiasts. Whether experienced on original hardware or through emulation, WCW vs. NWA World Tour retains its significance and charm, making it a timeless classic in the realm of gaming. Join the Conversation: Share your favorite memories of WCW vs. NWA World Tour or your top wrestling game picks with J.R. on social media using #WCWvsNWAWorldTour and #ClassicGaming. Conclusion: Thanks for tuning in to West Virginia Common Place! Stay tuned for more exciting insights into J.R.'s top ten video games. Until next time, this is J.R. signing off! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wvuncommonplace/message

Phyllis Leavitt, a distinguished psychotherapist and author, has a profound personal connection to the topic of mental health crisis and therapy. Her journey commenced with childhood trauma, which she bravely confronted through therapy, ultimately inspiring her to pursue a career in psychotherapy. Through her own healing process and rediscovery of her intrinsic goodness, Phyllis developed a passion for assisting others in navigating similar challenges. Her book, "American Therapy," not only reflects her personal experiences but also delves into broader societal issues, shedding light on the impact of family systems on individuals. With a comprehensive understanding of the interconnectedness of personal and societal dynamics, Phyllis Leavitt remains a staunch advocate for mental health awareness and holistic healing practices in her professional endeavors. (00:02:16) "After recovering the memories of what had happened to me and starting to recover my connection to my own essential goodness, I decided to become a psychotherapist." - Phyllis Leavitt" - Phyllis Leavitt (00:07:37) "To the extent that I was able to heal myself and sort of recover from the worst impact of what had happened to me, the less the people that I was hurt by mattered in a way." - Phyllis Leavitt" - Phyllis Leavitt (00:15:45) "Psychology is all about reconnecting with ourselves and peacefully and lovingly and safely connecting with the people in our world to the extent that we can do that. It's all about repair of relationship. It's not about somebody beating somebody else at the game." - Phyllis Leavitt" - Phyllis Leavitt (00:23:43) "Because, and one of the things that my, my original coach had said to me, whenever you feel lost, you come back to your, why? Why are you doing this? And I know in my heart that why I do what I do is because I love people and I love this planet. I love the earth, and I have children and I have grandchildren, and I want them to inherit a safe, peaceful, loving world that welcomes them and everyone. And that's why I do what I do. And that's the only reason I do what I do." - Phyllis Leavitt" - Phyllis Leavitt (00:35:47) "You have a power that no one else has, and that is to form mental stability, to make mental stability." - Jr Sparrow --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wvuncommonplace/message

WCW/nWo Revenge is a professional wrestling video game released in 1998 for the Nintendo 64 game console. It is the sequel to 1997's WCW vs. nWo: World Tour. Like its predecessor, Revenge features AKI's revolutionary grappling system as well as heavily improved graphics, a championship mode, and a large roster of wrestlers (real and fictional). Revenge gained critical praise and tremendous commercial success. According to a 1999 article by IGN, Revenge was the best-selling wrestling game for the N64 console,[1] and at the time, was the top selling third-party Nintendo game ever.[2] Revenge was the last AKI-developed WCW game for the Nintendo 64. The next AKI wrestling game released for the console, WWF WrestleMania 2000, sported THQ's newly acquired World Wrestling Federation license. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wvuncommonplace/message

Overview: Street Fighter Alpha Two, known as Street Fighter Zero Two in Japan, holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers. J.R. takes us on a nostalgic journey back to the days when this game hit the CPS2 arcade and later made its mark on the Sega Saturn. Highlights: Sega Saturn Era: J.R. recalls the days of playing Street Fighter Alpha Two on the Sega Saturn, highlighting the smooth gameplay and the impact it had on his gaming experience. Character Roster: Delve into the extensive character lineup, featuring iconic fighters like Akuma, Dan, Zangief, and many more, which contributed to the game's richness and allure. Gaming Impact: Discover the significance of Street Fighter Alpha Two in the gaming landscape, its role in the evolution of Street Fighter, and its lasting legacy. Platform Differences: Unveil the disparities across different versions, including the less-impressive Super Nintendo edition, and the Saturn's knack for executing 2D fighters flawlessly. Personal Reflections: J.R. shares personal anecdotes, discussing his gaming journey and the impact this particular game had during a pivotal time when transitioning between gaming consoles. Closing Thoughts: Street Fighter Alpha Two remains a testament to the charm of classic 2D fighters. J.R. reflects on the Sega Saturn's prowess in delivering an unparalleled gaming experience and shares insights into why this game holds a special spot in his gaming archive. Join the Conversation: Have fond memories of Street Fighter Alpha Two? Share your gaming stories, favorite characters, or experiences with J.R. on social media using #StreetFighterAlpha2 and #GamingNostalgia. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wvuncommonplace/message

Joel Bond, an international traveler, speaker, writer, and educator is renowned for his expertise in navigating cross-cultural systems. Notably, he has an eclectic background encompassing a professional magician, member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians, Italian vineyard worker, London-based flight attendant, and an Iraq-based worker. His worldly experiences have molded his perspective on indie book awards, viewing recognition as a much-needed validation of his work. Being a finalist in the best indie book awards competition, he has experienced firsthand the reassurance and validation such recognition brings, enhancing the joy in the process of creation and serving as motivation to continue exceeding his previous successes. Rather than letting recognition inflate his ego, Bond sees it as an encouragement to continue pursuing his passion for writing. (00:00:53) "So my main goal really is to help people connect with others on a deep level and to go across cultures and see how they can really move and work in this world." - Joel Bond" - Joel Bond (00:05:14) "People don't understand this about education. Once you provide someone with education, you give them the foundation and the groundwork, and the groundwork from there could lead to you, you making the next international president somewhere, or not making, but helping, aiding someone and going further than what they would have done." - JR Sparrow (00:07:33) "Home really is the place where you are known, where you're most connected, where you've created and established a sense of community, and how do you do that?" - Joel Bond" - Joel Bond (00:14:38) "I think just having spent those five months in Greece, on that island, and working with refugees there, and seeing the global migration crisis, basically 1% of the world's population has been displaced due to conflict." - Joel Bond (00:18:37) "Sometimes when you find yourself faced with serious trouble to press into it, to embrace it, because it's only through recognizing your failures that you develop that resilience over time." - Joel Bond" - Joel Bond --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wvuncommonplace/message

Leanne Wolf, a former professor and sexual anthropologist from Palo Alto, California, holds a unique perspective on the sexual revolution of the San Francisco Bay Area, influenced by her decades-long career in academia and her personal experiences. As a native witness to the transformation of the area before the emergence of tech giants, Wolf saw how the accessibility of birth control and the pre-AIDS era nurtured an atmosphere of sexual freedom and experimentation. In her view, the period's shift in morality lessened judgment towards casual relationships and one-night stands. These experiences and observations not only shaped her perspective but also steered her career path. As a sexual anthropologist and counselor, she devoted her later years to fostering a safe space for individuals to investigate and converse about various aspects of sexuality without fear of stigmatization. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wvuncommonplace/message

WCW vs nWo: World Tour is a professional wrestling video gamereleased in 1997 for the Nintendo 64 game console. Released at the peak of World Championship Wrestling's (WCW) dominance in the Monday Night Wars, World Tour was THQ's first foray into the N64 wrestling scene and is a semi sequel to the lesser known WCW vs. the World for the PlayStation. It is the second best-selling wrestling game for the N64 console.[1] Asmik Ace Entertainment and AKI approached the title by producing a wrestling game similar to Puroresu and fighting games. The resulting game was well received for its tight construction and ease of play, especially compared to Acclaim's comparatively more difficult and convoluted game, WWF War Zone. In fact, the playing style of World Tour, namely its revolutionary "grappling system," set a standard for pro wrestling video games to be expanded in future THQ titles for many years following.[2] source wikipedia  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wvuncommonplace/message

Episode Content: Game Background: Introduction of Final Fantasy VII, released in 1997 by Square. Initial development plans and the transition from Super Nintendo to PlayStation. Overview of the revolutionary elements such as full motion videos, 3D graphics, and 2D backgrounds. Personal Impact: J.R.'s experience and the excitement of owning Final Fantasy VII at Christmas '97. The extensive gameplay duration from December '97 to July '98 to complete the game. Notable aspects of the story, character development, betrayals, and deaths in the game. Game's Influence: Exploring the game's lasting impact on RPGs, setting standards for storytelling and character development in games. The influence on subsequent RPGs and its enduring legacy in the gaming community. Soundtrack and Gameplay Mechanics: The significance of the game's soundtrack in setting the tone. The functionalities and significance of mechanics such as the Materia system. J.R.'s thoughts on why it's not higher on his list due to the lack of replay value. Wrap-Up and Sign-off: Summarizing the game's significance and the impact it had during that time in J.R.'s life. A call-to-action for the audience to engage, like, and subscribe to the podcast for more content. Audience Engagement: Encouragement for audience members to share their own experiences and thoughts on Final Fantasy VII. A prompt to reflect on the game's influence on their gaming journey or any specific memories associated with the game. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wvuncommonplace/message

Introduction: Host welcomes listeners to the episode and introduces the guest, Robert Brill. Robert Brill, founder of Brill Media, shares insights from his 20 years of experience in the advertising industry. Differentiating Marketing and Advertising: Robert explains the distinction between marketing and advertising. Marketing encompasses various elements, including advertising, public relations, SEO, etc. Advertising specifically involves paying to reach people with messages, such as social media ads or billboards. Challenges with Digital Advertising: Robert discusses common pitfalls in digital advertising, focusing on platforms like Meta (formerly Facebook). He emphasizes the importance of strategy over simply boosting posts and recommends working with experts for effective advertising. Empowering Businesses with Bro Media: Robert shares the inspiration behind founding Brill Media. The company aims to democratize digital advertising and provide small to mid-sized businesses access to corporate-level insights. Monetizing Podcasts through Advertising: The discussion shifts to podcast monetization strategies, particularly advertising. Robert offers advice on approaching businesses for podcast advertising and maximizing value for both parties. Utilizing Data for Informed Decisions: Robert stresses the significance of leveraging data for better business decisions. Data insights help businesses understand customer behavior, product-market fit, and advertising effectiveness. Sustainable Tactics for Long-term Growth: Robert outlines sustainable tactics for long-term growth in digital advertising. He emphasizes broad targeting on platforms like Meta, creative testing frameworks, and optimizing ads for maximum impact. Case Study: Driving Business Growth with Brill Media: Robert shares a success story of a consumer products brand scaling its advertising from $90,000 to $300,000 per month profitably with Brill Media's approach. Shameless Plug and Conclusion: Robert invites listeners to connect with him on the Brill Media website and learn more about their services. Host thanks Robert for sharing valuable insights and concludes the episode. Outro: Host signs off, thanking listeners for tuning in and encouraging them to reach out with feedback or questions. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wvuncommonplace/message

An episode from the Lost Tapes .. it was a conceptual episode and it didn't make the cut and it is being released now because it has merit to the struggle for us to be successful in podcasting --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wvuncommonplace/message

PODFade 2 . I go a little deeper into this PODFade issue.. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wvuncommonplace/message

Virtual Fighter 2 holds a unique spot in my gaming journey. Unlike its predecessor, this one really struck a chord. Back in '94, this game took the 3D fighting format to a whole new level. I started with Virtual Fighter and it did nothing for me, but its sequel had me hooked! Whether it was in the arcade or on the Sega Saturn, I dived headfirst into this world of martial arts and technique. It taught me nuances in fighting games beyond Street Fighter or Mortal Kombat. Learning the characters, their strengths and weaknesses, discovering cheap moves, and countering them - that was the essence of Virtual Fighter 2. The strategies developed, especially the drunk character with his evasive moves, made it a fun yet challenging experience. Couch co-op was a massive deal back then. I'd invite friends over to engage in endless hours of battles. It was more than just a game; it was a way to bond and settle scores. The mechanics of air juggling, combos, and the satisfaction of evading and striking with a perfect move made it an absolute blast. However, despite being such a pivotal game in my youth, its place on my top ten list isn't higher due to its decline in keeping up with later iterations. Post-Virtual Fighter 2, I found other fighting games like Tekken and Street Fighter surpassing its charm. Yet, the memories and skills I garnered from this game remain etched in my gaming history. Virtual Fighter 2 wasn't just a game; it was a whole era of bonding, learning, and unleashing combo moves against friends. To this day, I still appreciate its influence on my gaming experience. Stay tuned for more insights into my top ten video games list! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wvuncommonplace/message

Kirk McCarley is a well-respected executive career coach with a rich background from his tenure at the Disney corporation's ESPN, spanning over three decades. Kirk's perspective on transitioning careers in one's mid-50s is marked by a firm belief in the endless possibilities life can offer, regardless of one's age. This viewpoint was significantly shaped by his personal experience of shifting careers from human resources to life and career coaching in his mid to late 50s, fueled by a pivotal coaching experience in 2013. Kirk stands as a beacon of continual growth and exploration, encouraging those over 50 to consider different career paths, identify their passions, and take concrete steps towards achieving their goals. His journey serves as an inspiration for many, advocating for the idea that it's never too late to discover and pursue your true calling. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wvuncommonplace/message

ntroduction: Greetings and welcome back to West Virginia Commonplace! Introduce the topic: The captivating story of Working Designs, a video game company that made a significant impact on the industry and on the host's life. Segment 1: The Origins of Working Designs Explore the founding of Working Designs in 1986. Emphasize their mission to bring unique Japanese role-playing games (RPGs) to the Western audience. Discuss their dedication to preserving the integrity of the original content and their commitment to quality. Segment 2: Introduction of Japanese RPGs to the Western Audience Share the personal experience of the host discovering Working Designs through the Sega Saturn console. Highlight the games that captivated gamers, such as the Lunar series and Albert Odyssey. Discuss the attention to detail and exquisite packaging that made Working Designs stand out. Segment 3: Challenges Faced by Working Designs Describe the challenges Working Designs encountered as the industry evolved. Discuss the rise of 3D games and the shift towards mainstream game experiences. Explore the financial difficulties and increasing competition that put pressure on the company. Segment 4: Working Designs' Impact on Gaming Culture Discuss the profound influence of Working Designs on gaming culture and the localization of Japanese games. Highlight the significance of their efforts in introducing Japanese RPGs to the Western market. Mention the lasting impact on popular franchises and genres in the gaming industry. Segment 5: The Closure of Working Designs Detail the eventual closure of Working Designs in 2005. Explain the financial difficulties that led to their demise. Reflect on the legacy of Working Designs and their contributions to the gaming world. Conclusion: Express gratitude for the enduring impact of Working Designs. Encourage listeners to explore their games and experience the unique localization efforts. Tease upcoming episodes and invite listeners to continue uncovering extraordinary stories with West Virginia Commonplace. Outro: Thank listeners for tuning in and remind them to stay curious, keep exploring, and never stop seeking the uncommon. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wvuncommonplace/message

Lolita Guarin, a passionate advocate for mental health awareness hailing from Lithuania, has become a symbol of resilience and strength in countering the lingering impact of childhood trauma. Her personal journey with an alcoholic father has shaped her perspective on the often stigmatized topic of mental health and the ramifications of childhood trauma. Lolita is a firm believer in the power of sharing personal stories to break down societal stigmas, and advocates for individuals to seek support in times of struggle, reinforcing the idea that no one is alone in their adversities, regardless of their background. In her endeavours to support others who have faced similar experiences, she has authored a book on stress management for adult children of alcoholics, providing free resources to those in need. Guarin’s work embodies her commitment to promote mental health awareness and her belief in fostering happiness, acce --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wvuncommonplace/message