In this episode of Tom Rhodes Smart Camp, Tom welcomes a special guest—his mother Sara, who is visiting him in LA. It's the once-a-month Smart Books & Movies episode, and they're diving into the lives and legacies of Aretha Franklin and Arnold Schwarzenegger through the lens of literature and documentary.
Starting with Aretha Franklin, Tom recounts his deep appreciation for her music and the impact it has had on him throughout his life. Despite facing challenges, including coming out of a period of depression, Tom finds renewed purpose in his podcast and shares insights into Franklin's struggles and triumphs. He discusses the powerful influence of Franklin's music, touching on her overcoming hardships and drawing strength from her songs.
The conversation shifts to a biography of Franklin, which Tom finds compelling until it delves into her life post-1980s, where his interest wanes. However, the early years of Franklin's career, her groundbreaking albums, and her undeniable talent in transforming the song "Respect" captivate Tom and his mother. They explore Franklin's relationship with her family, her contributions to the civil rights movement, and her encounters with prominent figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Oprah Winfrey.
Tom and his mother also discuss another cultural icon, Arnold Schwarzenegger, through a documentary on Netflix. They admire Schwarzenegger's determination, his journey from Austria to becoming a bodybuilding champion, and his successful transition into acting and politics. The documentary highlights Schwarzenegger's ability to overcome adversity, his impact on environmental policy as the Governor of California, and his personal growth, including acknowledging a child from an extramarital affair.
This episode serves as a rich tapestry of stories about resilience, creativity, and the pursuit of greatness against all odds. Tom and Sara's discussions reflect a deep appreciation for the arts, the complexities of human experiences, and the lessons that can be learned from the lives of those who have left a lasting mark on the world.
Listen to the audio version!
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Qyybimu7PbTNWy9Hh4Xjk
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tom-rhodes-smart-camp/id426881872
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About Smart Camp podcast
Tom Rhodes Smart Camp is a festival of ideas, knowledge, stories, books & adventures.
Join us for Smart Ramble (Tom talks freely), Smart Talk (Tom has a guest), Smart Bestie (Tom & best friend Ashna Rodjan), Smart Books & Movies (Review on Books & Movies).
Tom
I have been a comedian for more than 40 years. I travel the world, performing comedy. Exploring diverse cultures and connecting with people from all walks of life while doing comedy is at the heart of my journey. Whenever I can, I'll share my adventures and a global perspective with you on this podcast.
Ashna
Ashna, Dutch artist, photographer, and my ex-wife,is my best friend and she's an essential part of the Rhodesies production team. We've traveled the world together for 8 years. With her background in cognitive psychology and her passion for philosophy and the arts, Ashna shares her unique European perspective.
399 Smart Talk with Ben Gonzalez
398 Smart Talk with Ric Diez
397 Smart Talk with Andy Andrist
396 Smart Talk with Rudy Tyburczy
395 Smart Bestie with Ashna Rodjan - Tiggers Bouncing
394 Smart Books Joe DiMaggio & Marilyn Monroe
393 Smart Talk with Comedian & Musician Dean Delray
392 Smart Bestie with Ashna - Good Morning Hero!
391 Smart Talk Controversial Musings with Jeff Leach
389 Smart Talk Break-Up Registry with Natasha Pearl Hansen
388 Smart Ramble Mexico Respecto
387 Laughing Through Life's Curveballs with Paul Ogata
386 Comedy, Courage, and Cannabis with Jen Kober
385 Jewish Humor: Rodney Dangerfield & Larry David with Jeffrey Baldinger
384 Secret Lives and Comedy Insights with Drake Nelson
383 Sammy Davis Jr.
382 The Evolution of Comedy with Journalist Julie Seabaugh
381 Orion Levine
380 From Model to Stand-Up Comedian Mario Adrion
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