Jim Spruell - Divine Inspiration: Messages From My Son Across The Threshold

Sandy & Chuck's Venice Pulse: Episode 16

In this week’s episode Sandy & Chuck sat down with raconteur, filmmaker, painter and singer/songwriter Jim Spruell. Jim’s son Dakota transitioned in 2021, yet Jim still connects and communicates with Dakota. Indeed, messages from Dakota were a major part of inspiration for Jim when he was directing the award-winning film “Wolf’s Message” - which was released to great acclaim last year.

In this heartfelt and engaging discussion Jim offers valuable life lessons and shares his journey from playing guitar in a college rock band with Mike Mills from REM, to a successful career in advertising, to his work today making films. Whether it be film, music or simple conversation, Jim reflects on the power of storytelling and how it offers hope and healing to those navigating their own voyages of love, connection and grief.

Chapters:
Zuza: 00:01:00
Dakota: 00:02:36
Suzanne Giesemann: 00:10:10
Wolf’s Message: 00:24:25
Wolf’s Song: 00:43:21
Wolf’s Message Legacy: 00:45:21
Jim’s Upbringing: 00:50:18
Jim’s Musical Beginnings: 00:54:48
Mike Mills: 00:59:45
Harvesting Seeds with Dakota: 01:06:26
Future Projects: 01:11:07
Fatherly Advice: 01:12:55
Look For The Signs: 01:14:45
Five Black Angels: 01:19:30

You can connect with Jim here:
Film: https://www.zuzafilms.com/
Music: https://www.youtube.com/@jimspruell
Art: https://www.jimspruell.art/
Social: https://www.instagram.com/jimspruell/

Venice Pulse is a podcast focusing on Venice Beach and beyond. It is hosted by Venice residents Sandy Clark and Chuck Whobrey. Sandy has been on the cutting edge of both written and televised journalism for the last 30 years. Her credits include NHK, CBC, ABC, BBC, AMI (various publications), the Daily Mail and the Westside Current.

Originally from the UK, Chuck was once on the BBC's Newsnight talking about "Ecstasy". Besides that he has no experience whatsoever when it comes to hosting a current affairs type show! He enjoys creating though, and pasting things together.

Intro Music: "Trip" by DJ Nick "Feesch" Wilson

You can also watch "Venice Pulse" on YouTube.

Is L.A. The Worst Place To Celebrate New Year’s Eve? + The Palisades Fire One Year On. Venice Pulse Episode 14.

Hello: 00:01:15
They Let Us Burn Protest: 00:10:50
Cat Cafe: 00:14:28
New Year's Eve in California: 00:18:43

A somewhat unhinged episode of Venice Pulse begins with Chuck venting his frustration with EBAY, before Sandy recounts her morning at the “They Let Us Burn” protest held on the first anniversary of the Pacific Palisades fire. The dynamic duo then discuss a large dead sea-bird found hanging in their garden tree - which L.A. City sanitation failed initially to collect – before then talking about a new Cat Café which is about to open in Venice. The podcast closes with a rant about how feeble the coverage of New Year’s Eve is in California, and particularly Los Angeles.

Venice Pulse is a podcast focusing on Venice Beach and beyond. It is hosted by Venice residents Sandy Clark and Chuck Whobrey. Sandy has been on the cutting edge of both written and televised journalism for the last 30 years. Her credits include NHK, CBC, ABC, BBC, AMI (various publications), the Daily Mail and the Westside Current.

Originally from the UK, Chuck was once on the BBC's Newsnight talking about "Ecstasy". Besides that he has no experience whatsoever when it comes to hosting a current affairs type show!

Intro Music: "Trip" by DJ Nick "Feesch" Wilson

You can also listen to "Venice Pulse" on Apple, Amazon, Spotify and all the other main podcast platforms.

Adam Topol: Day Dream Man - Reflections On Venice, Life and Drumming For Jack Johnson

In this episode Sandy & Chuck have an engaging conversation with Adam Topol who shares his multifaceted journey as a musician and his experiences of living in Venice Beach. Adam recalls his time spent at the Berklee College of Music, studying drumming in Cuba, his early career on the East then West coast music scenes, and his 25+ year collaboration with multi-platinum recording artist Jack Johnson. Adam discusses his various solo music projects over the years and how these creative endeavors have made him a better musician and band mate. Adam also talks about his favorite bits of Venice, catching early morning waves and the importance of community.

For more info on Adam please visit him at: https://www.adamtopol.com/
Or on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/topeywan/

Venice Pulse is a podcast focusing on Venice Beach and beyond. It is hosted by Venice residents Sandy Clark and Chuck Whobrey. Sandy has been on the cutting edge of both written and televised journalism for the last 30 years. Her credits include NHK, CBC, ABC, BBC, AMI (various publications), the Daily Mail and the Westside Current.

Originally from the UK, Chuck was once on the BBC's Newsnight talking about "Ecstasy". Besides that he has no experience whatsoever when it comes to hosting a current affairs type show!

Intro Music: "Trip" by DJ Nick "Feesch" Wilson

You can also listen to "Venice Pulse" on Apple, Amazon, Spotify and all the other main podcast platforms.

Massacre Murder & Mayhem On The Edge Of The Pacific; Venice Pulse Episode 13 with Jim Buck

In what was meant to be their joyful “Holiday” episode, Sandy and Chuck actually engage in a candid discussion with political analyst, writer and returnee guest Jim Buck about the murder of Rob Reiner and the tragic massacre on Bondi Beach in Australia. They delve into controversial statements made by Donald Trump, the implications of mental health issues, and the dynamics within families dealing with addiction. The trio express hope for change and a deeper societal understanding of these complex issues. The hosts also talk about how frustrating local politics in Los Angeles is and can be. Finally, Jim discusses his upcoming book: “A Smattering of White Lives Mattering”. He touches upon misinterpretations of historical narratives - particularly those regarding white servitude and slavery. Happy Holidays everybody!

Venice Pulse is a podcast focusing on Venice Beach and beyond. It is hosted by Venice residents Sandy Clark and Chuck Whobrey. Sandy has been on the cutting edge of both written and televised journalism for the last 30 years. Her credits include NHK, CBC, ABC, BBC, AMI (various publications), the Daily Mail and the Westside Current.

Originally from the UK, Chuck was once on the BBC's Newsnight talking about "Ecstasy". Besides that he has no qualifications whatsoever when it comes to hosting a current affairs type show!

Intro Music: "Trip" by DJ Nick "Feesch" Wilson

You can also listen to "Venice Pulse" on Apple, Amazon, Spotify and all the other main podcast platforms.

A Conversation with Harry Perry, the Kama Kosmic Krusader: Music Meditations & Marathons; Venice Pulse Episode 12

This week Sandy & Chuck ride a stream of consciousness with the Kama Kosmic Krusader himself, Venice Beach icon: Harry Perry! Harry has been performing on the Venice Boardwalk for the last 50 years, has appeared in numerous films & TV shows, and continues to record and gig with his band. The conversation delves into his rich history - from his early days in Detroit to his experiences in Hollywood and Venice. He shares anecdotes about his involvement in the play "Hair," his entry into the entertainment unions, and his unique journey as a street performer. The conversation also touches on his spiritual practices, including Kundalini yoga, Sikhism and his passion for long distance running. Harry reflects on the changes in Venice over the years, his legal battles for street performance rights, and his interactions with famous musicians. The discussion concludes with Harry's ongoing musical projects and his connection to the Grateful Dead community.

Venice Pulse is a podcast focusing on Venice Beach and beyond. It is hosted by Venice residents Sandy Clark and Chuck Whobrey. Sandy has been on the cutting edge of both written and televised journalism for the last 30 years. Her credits include NHK, CBC, ABC, BBC, AMI (various publications), the Daily Mail and the Westside Current.

Originally from the UK, Chuck was once on the BBC's Newsnight talking about "Ecstasy". Besides that he has no qualifications whatsoever when it comes to hosting a current affairs type show!

Intro Music: "Trip" by DJ Nick "Feesch" Wilson

My Path to US Citizenship in Trump’s America. Venice Pulse Episode 11 with Sandy & Chuck.

In this episode, Sandy shares her journey to becoming an American citizen, discussing the challenges and experiences she faced throughout the process. The dialogue explores the significance of voting, the preparation for the citizenship test, and the impact of current US immigration policies on this sometimes tense journey. Sandy and Chuck also reflect on the emotional aspects of identity and cultural heritage and share personal anecdotes - culminating in a celebration of citizenship and community engagement.

Venice Pulse is a podcast focusing on Venice Beach and beyond. It is hosted by Venice residents Sandy Clark and Chuck Whobrey. Sandy has been on the cutting edge of both written and televised journalism for the last 30 years. Her credits include NHK, CBC, ABC, BBC, AMI (various publications), the Daily Mail and the Westside Current.

Originally from the UK, Chuck was once on the BBC's Newsnight talking about "Ecstasy". Besides that he has no qualifications whatsoever when it comes to hosting a current affairs type show!

Intro Music: "Trip" by DJ Nick "Feesch" Wilson

Christian Nationalism and the Rise & Fall of Free Speech: Jim Buck's Open Letter to America; Venice Pulse Episode 10

In this episode, Sandy & Chuck chat with writer and former radio host Jim Buck. They discuss a range of topics including political dynamics, the assassination of Charlie Kirk, the implications of Christian Nationalism and the societal impact of current events. The conversation then delves into the complexities of free speech versus hate speech, the right to vote and the socio-economic challenges faced by different communities today. Jim shares insights from his forthcoming book: "A Smattering of White Lives Mattering" - exploring themes of class and race. The episode emphasizes the importance of dialogue and understanding in addressing America's need for healing and unity.

Venice Pulse is a podcast focusing on Venice Beach and beyond. It is hosted by Venice residents Sandy Clark and Chuck Whobrey.

Sandy has been on the cutting edge of both written and televised journalism for the last 30 years. Her credits include NHK, CBC, ABC, BBC, AMI (various publications), the Daily Mail and the Westside Current.

Originally from the UK, Chuck was once on the BBC's Newsnight talking about "Ecstasy". Besides that he has no qualifications whatsoever when it comes to hosting a current affairs type show!

Intro Music: "Trip" by DJ Nick "Feesch" Wilson

Californian vs British Wildlife / L.A. vs UK Homelessness; Venice Pulse Ep 9

In this engaging conversation, Sandy and Chuck compare the fascinating worlds of British and Californian wildlife with expert Sara Weaver. The trio delve into the spiritual connections humans have with animals and the challenges facing urban wildlife. The discussion also touches on the social issues surrounding homelessness and how this intersects with wildlife conservation. Through humor and personal anecdotes, the hosts reflect on the interconnectedness of life and the importance of understanding and protecting our animal companions.

Venice Pulse is a podcast focusing on Venice Beach and beyond. It is hosted by Venice residents Sandy Clark and Chuck Whobrey. Sandy has been on the cutting edge of both written and televised journalism for the last 30 years. Her credits include NHK, CBC, ABC, BBC, AMI (various publications), the Daily Mail and the Westside Current.

Originally from the UK, Chuck was once on the BBC's Newsnight talking about "Ecstasy". Besides that he has no qualifications whatsoever when it comes to hosting a current affairs type show!

Intro Music: "Trip" by DJ Nick "Feesch" Wilson