A Joyful Rebellion

Episode Summary:
What do coal mines, TikTok, and pizza have in common? In this heartfelt and hunger-inducing episode, James sits down with author and entrepreneur Erica D’Arcangelo to explore the incredible story behind her family's 60-year-old pizzeria in Western Pennsylvania.
Erica shares how a return home during her father’s heart surgery rekindled her purpose in marketing, inspired her to tell her family's immigrant story, and ultimately led to the creation of a children’s book, a coloring book, and a video series celebrating family-owned pizzerias.
From her grandfather’s journey from coal miner to pizzeria founder, to the viral success of their pizza-cutting videos, this conversation is packed with themes of resilience, legacy, and the power of doing work that truly matters.
 
Episode Title:
A Story About Pizza: Erica D’Arcangelo on Legacy, Risk & Reinvention
Chapter Markers:
[00:00] Intro & Pizza Warning – Get a snack first!
[01:00] Coming Home – Erica returns to help her dad after heart surgery.
[03:00] Rebuilding the Family Business – A pizzeria restored and a legacy reignited.
[05:00] TikTok and a Million Views – The moment a pizza video changed everything.
[07:00] The Real Story Begins – A trip to Italy and rediscovering heritage.
[08:30] Coal Mines and Dreams – Her grandfather’s incredible immigration story.
[10:00] Finding Purpose in Marketing Again – From burnout to meaning.
[12:00] Launching the Book and Video Projects – Creativity fueled by connection.
[14:00] The Origin of the Pizzeria – Buying a building and baking a dream.
[17:00] Anchored by Legacy – What the business means to the family.
[20:00] The Pineapple Debate – The DiAngelo stance.
[23:00] The Evolution of Pizza and Crust Talk – Mike’s Pie vs. OG style.
[25:00] Lessons from Writing a Book – What Erica learned in the process.
[27:00] A True Joyful Rebellion – Turning family history into personal purpose.
Links and Resources:
Book Website: AStoryAboutPizza.com
The Pizzeria: Darc’s Pizza – darcspizza.com
Follow on Instagram: @‌astoryaboutpizza
Children’s Book & Coloring Book: Available now on AStoryAboutPizza.com
TikTok: @‌astoryaboutpizza
Recommended Pizza Spot in FL: ROA Pizza, Clearwater/Tampa area

Episode Summary:
Adoption is often seen as a beautiful new beginning, but behind every adoption story is an unspoken layer of loss, identity struggles, and adjustment—for both the child and the adoptive family. In this episode of A Joyful Rebellion, James sits down with author and adoptive mother Anna Maria DiDio to talk about the realities of adoption, the challenges of integrating a child into a new culture, and why every adoption story begins with loss and trauma.
Anna Maria shares her journey of international adoption, the emotional rollercoaster of welcoming her daughter into the family, and how the experience led her to write memoirs and children’s books designed to help families navigate adoption with understanding and compassion.
If you're an adoptive parent, considering adoption, or simply interested in the complexities of family, identity, and belonging, this episode is a must-listen.
 
Show Notes with Chapter Markers:
Episode Title:
"Adoption, Identity, and Healing: A Conversation with Anna Maria DiDio"
 
Chapter Markers:
[00:00] Introduction – Meet Anna Maria DiDio and her journey into adoption.
[02:00] A Life-Changing Decision – How international adoption became part of her family’s story.
[05:30] The Myth of Adoption – Why adoption is more complex than people assume.
[08:00] Facing the Reality of Trauma – How early separation impacts adopted children.
[12:00] Navigating Identity and Culture – Helping adopted children connect with their roots.
[17:00] Parenting Through Challenges – Emotional struggles, school adjustments, and family dynamics.
[22:00] Turning Pain into Purpose – How journaling led to a career as an adoption advocate and author.
[26:00] Advice for Families Considering Adoption – The lessons Anna Maria wishes she had known.
[30:00] Final Thoughts & Where to Connect – Books, resources, and how to stay in touch with Anna Maria.
 
Links and Resources:
Anna Maria DiDio’s Website: amdidio.com
Download the Free Affirmation Sheet for Kids: Click Here
Books by Anna Maria DiDio:
Love at the Border: An Adoption Adventure (Memoir)
The Life Adventure Series (Children’s Books on Adoption)
Follow Anna Maria on Instagram: @‌amdidio_author

Episode Summary:
Filmmaking is more than entertainment—it’s a powerful tool for change. In this episode of A Joyful Rebellion, James sits down with filmmaker and producer Ethan Felizzari-Castillo to talk about the power of storytelling in shaping perspectives and sparking conversations. As the founder of CK Productions, Ethan is dedicated to cause-based storytelling, crafting films that highlight important social issues and inspire action.
Ethan shares the journey behind his latest project, Backyard Desert, a film tackling the realities of immigration and border patrol from a human-centered perspective. They dive into the creative process behind independent filmmaking, the challenges of working outside the Hollywood system, and why supporting independent artists is more crucial than ever.
If you’re passionate about film, activism, or simply the power of storytelling to shape the world, this episode is a must-listen.
Show Notes with Chapter Markers:
Episode Title:
"Filmmaking with a Purpose: Ethan Felizzari-Castillo on Cause-Based Storytelling"
Chapter Markers:
[00:00] Introduction – Meet Ethan Felizzari-Castillo and his mission-driven approach to film.
[04:00] Filmmaking as a Tool for Change – Why stories have the power to shape perspectives.
[07:30] The Journey of Backyard Desert – How a play became a powerful film about immigration.
[12:00] Independent Filmmaking vs. Hollywood – The creative freedom and challenges of working outside the system.
[16:30] The Art of Storytelling in Film – Balancing emotion, perspective, and impact.
[22:00] Behind the Scenes of Indie Film Production – The reality of bringing a film to life.
[27:00] Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers – How to get started in the world of independent film.
[31:00] How to Support Backyard Desert – Where to follow the project and get involved.
 Links and Resources:
Follow Backyard Desert: @‌BackyardDesert on Instagram, Threads, and TikTok
CK Productions Website: https://www.ckproductionsnewyork.com/film 
YouTube Channel for CK Films: CK Productions NY
Ethan Felizzari-Castillo on Instagram: @‌EthanFelizzari
Watch CK Productions’ Short Films: CK Films on Vimeo

What happens when the qualities you spent a lifetime apologizing for suddenly make you famous? That’s the story of Annie Korzen, an actor, writer, and now an accidental influencer who skyrocketed to social media fame in her 80s. You may recognize her from Seinfeld, but today, she’s captivating millions with her unfiltered wisdom, humor, and brutally honest takes on life, aging, and saying “Yeah, why not?” to unexpected opportunities.
In this episode, Annie shares how she went from bit-part actress to viral sensation, the lessons she’s learned about storytelling, rejection, and reinvention, and why she believes embracing your true self is the key to success. We also dig into her new book, The Book of Annie: Humor, Heart, and Chutzpah from an Accidental Influencer, and her thoughts on aging, money, and why everyone needs a little rebellion in their lives.
Whether you’re 25 or 85, this conversation will leave you laughing, inspired, and maybe even rethinking your own next big leap.

Episode Summary
In this episode of A Joyful Rebellion, host James sits down with R.L. Carpentier, a veteran law enforcement officer turned crime fiction writer. Rodney shares his journey from studying English literature to unexpectedly entering law enforcement and how he rekindled his love for storytelling after nearly two decades on the force. His debut novel, Our Lady of the Overlook, is the first in a gripping crime thriller series that merges real-world policing experience with compelling storytelling.
Rodney walks us through the moment of inspiration that led to his novel, how he overcame imposter syndrome, and the writing strategies that helped him bring his book to life. He shares insights on crafting realistic police procedurals, the importance of self-imposed deadlines, and how he balances his creative work with his career. He also discusses his approach to self-publishing, working with editors, and building a writing platform ahead of his upcoming retirement.
If you've ever wanted to write a book but struggled with getting started, this episode is packed with actionable advice and motivation.
 
Show Notes & Timestamps
[00:00:00] Introduction
Welcome to A Joyful Rebellion
James introduces guest R.L. Carpentier
[00:01:00] The Inspiration for Our Lady of the Overlook
Rodney’s background in law enforcement and literature
How a late-night shift sparked the idea for his novel
[00:03:30] From College Writer to Police Officer
Studying English and idolizing the Lost Generation authors
How he drifted away from writing when he started his career
[00:06:00] The Turning Point: Why Writing Had to Happen
Losing his father and reevaluating his life path
The moment he decided: I have to do this for me
[00:09:00] Learning the Craft & Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
Discovering storytelling techniques like Save the Cat
Finding editors and trusting the revision process
[00:12:00] Self-Publishing: The Reality of Making a Book Happen
The step-by-step process of hiring editors, designers, and proofreaders
Attending writing conferences to build confidence and connections
[00:18:00] Realistic Crime Writing: Blending Fact with Fiction
How Rodney balances procedural accuracy with compelling storytelling
Navigating what can and cannot be shared from law enforcement experience
[00:22:00] The Evolution of a Trilogy
How Our Lady of the Overlook expanded into a three-book series
What’s coming in books two and three
[00:26:00] Financing & Marketing a Self-Published Book
How Rodney used overtime work to fund his debut novel
Considering Kickstarter for future projects
[00:30:00] Building a Writing Career Before Retirement
Planning ahead for his post-law enforcement creative career
The importance of having a platform before transitioning careers
[00:34:00] Final Thoughts & Advice
The philosophy that shaped his approach: Early is on time, on time is late, late is not acceptable
Where to find Our Lady of the Overlook and connect with Rodney
Resources & Links
Guest Website & Newsletter Signup: rlcarpentierwriter.comBuy Our Lady of the Overlook: Available on Amazon & Direct from AuthorFollow Rodney on Patreon: (Link to be provided by guest)

 
Podcast Episode Summary
In this insightful episode of A Joyful Rebellion, host James sits down with Kareen Aristide, a human behavior consultant and mental health advocate, to discuss the profound difference between happiness and joy. Kareen shares her personal journey—from a thriving career to a life-altering crash that forced her to reevaluate success, purpose, and well-being.
She introduces the DISC personality model, explaining how self-awareness can help individuals break free from societal expectations, avoid burnout, and make career and life choices that align with their true nature.
They dive deep into why high-achievers often struggle with fulfillment, the dangers of overachievement, and the warning signs that signal an impending crash.
 
Kareen also provides actionable advice on how to cultivate joy, set boundaries, and align personal and professional growth with individual strengths. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a high-performer, or someone feeling stuck, this episode will inspire you to rethink success and embrace a more intentional, fulfilling path.

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https://ajoyfulrebellion.com/
 

Show Notes
Men’s Groups and the New Masculinity: A Conversation with Jason Lange
Episode Summary:
In this episode of A Joyful Rebellion, James sits down with Jason Lange, men’s guide, coach, and founder of Evolutionary Men. Together, they explore the modern challenges men face and why men’s groups are becoming a powerful solution for personal growth. Jason shares his journey from feeling disconnected to becoming a leader in men’s development, offering insights into how cultural shifts have redefined masculinity. From navigating relationships to building better communities, this conversation dives deep into how men can find purpose and thrive.
Chapter Markers:
00:00 – Introduction: Meet Jason Lange and the importance of men’s groups.
05:00 – Redefining Masculinity: How cultural shifts shaped modern manhood.
15:00 – Finding Your Tribe: Why men’s groups matter and how to find one.
25:00 – Breaking the Lone Wolf Myth: The importance of community for men.
35:00 – Actionable Insights: Jason’s advice for men ready to grow.
50:00 – Closing Thoughts: Key takeaways and how to connect with Jason.
Links and Resources:
Jason Lange’s Website: evolutionary.men
Book Mentioned: No More Mr. Nice Guy by Dr. Robert Glover
Jason’s Podcast: Evolutionary Men Podcast
 
men’s groups, modern masculinity, Jason Lange, personal growth for men, mentorship for men, breaking stereotypes, men’s mental health, emotional resilience, nice guy syndrome, community for men, purpose-driven life.

In this episode, James sits down with Tess Callahan, novelist, teacher, and meditation guide, for a deeply inspiring conversation about creativity, writing, and the transformative power of mindfulness. Tess shares the story behind her upcoming novel Dawnland, a rich exploration of family, secrets, and redemption.
Together, they discuss how Tess uses meditation and dreams as part of her creative process, the concept of creative constraints, and her personal journey balancing the demands of life with her passion for storytelling. Whether you’re a writer, a seeker, or someone curious about unlocking your own potential, this episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and practical advice.
Chapter Markers
00:00 – Introduction: Setting the stage for a conversation with Tess Callahan.
02:00 – Meet Tess: Tess introduces herself and her new book, Dawnland.
09:00 – The Writing Process: Insights into the messy yet magical journey of writing.
17:30 – Dreams and Creativity: How Tess uses dreams to spark inspiration.
24:00 – Meditation for Focus: The role of meditation in her creative and personal life.
32:00 – Creative Constraints: How limits can fuel innovation in writing.
42:00 – Journaling for Self-Discovery: Tess’s advice on writing to pursue your questions.
51:00 – Book Promotion Challenges: Tess reflects on transitioning from writing to promoting.
57:00 – Wrapping Up: James and Tess discuss joyful rebellion and embracing life’s challenges.
Links and Resources
Tess Callahan’s Website: http://www.tesscallahan.com
Dawnland (Preorder/Order): http://www.tesscallahan.com/dawnland
Heart Haven Meditations Podcast: Heart Haven Meditations

ajoyfulrebellion.com
 
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