The Tragedy Academy
The Tragedy Academy Podcast is a show that explores the human experience through the lens of tragedy and triumph. We aim to help listeners grow and thrive by sharing stories of real people who have experienced adversity and success. Hosted by Jay Hicks, a veteran, music producer, and multimedia artist, along with co-host Gary DeFranco, an Emmy-nominated executive producer with 20 years of experience producing non-scripted television, The Tragedy Academy Podcast provides a unique perspective on life’s challenges and how to overcome them. Our guests come from all walks of life and share their stories of struggle and triumph. We believe that our past does not define our future and that living authentically and purposefully is the key to a fulfilling life. Through candid and humorous discussions, we explore societal divides and bridge gaps in understanding. We believe that laughter is the best fertilizer for the tree of knowledge, and that’s why we bring you stories that will make you t...
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Episodes
Monday Aug 15, 2022
Monday Aug 15, 2022
SummaryThe Tragedy Academy is excited to present a new regular feature for the show: TA Library. In this episode, TA librarian Jennifer steps out from behind the curtain to talk about what academics can expect from these after-school study sessions. There will be some history, some mystery, and as always we'll be bridging social divides. This time, the guys discuss the last time they were in a public library, and the role of libraries in the digital age. The main thing to take away: libraries are so much more than books, and we're excited to talk about it in this series.Episode Highlights🏛 The power of publishing🏝 Reading as an escape📚 Gary visits the library💻 Digital libraries🤔 Do libraries have a branding problem?ConnectCheck out Jennifer's podcast, Big Book Energy.NEW: Visit the new TA bookstore on Bookshop.org and see what the gang is reading.Visit our website to find links to our YouTube channel, other social media, show notes, and more!Make a beautiful podcast website with Podpage.Explore professional recording options with Riverside.fm.Liked Jay's t-shirt from this episode? Get your own at INTO THE AM.For Tragedy Academy recommended books and authors, visit our Bookshop.*Some of the links above are affiliate links and The Tragedy Academy will receive proceeds from purchases made using them.*Mentioned in this episode:Connect with us!📲 Connect with us!
https://www.thetragedyacademy.com
✨ Resources & Affiliate Links:
💻 Create your own stunning podcast website with PodPage: https://bit.ly/3LSCBh5
🎙️ Elevate your recording game with Riverside.fm: https://bit.ly/3ImjNWD
👕 Love Jay's t-shirt from this episode? Get your own at INTO THE AM: https://bit.ly/431MLD5
📚 For Tragedy Academy-recommended books and authors, visit our Bookshop:
https://bit.ly/42pPHcv
📲 Connect with us!
📺 Don't forget to Subscribe to our YouTube channel! 💥 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEUXqlregig6vcrvuVNGlKg
🙏 If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more enlightening discussions and hilarious moments. Be cool, and keep learning!
📲 Connect with us on socials!
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEUXqlregig6vcrvuVNGlKg
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetragedyacademypodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheTragedyAcademy
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Tragedy_AcademyThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy
Monday Aug 08, 2022
Monday Aug 08, 2022
SummaryGary brings another inspiring guest to the show: Artem Lobov. A former MMA fighter and boxer, Artem is taking the opportunity of an early retirement to not only protect his health, but explore who he is outside of the sport. This includes writing a book about his life, starting a clothing brand, and getting into the whiskey business - which he sees as a way of giving back to Ireland, his home since he was a teenager. Gary and Jay also talk with Artem about the misconceptions and extremes of fighting as a sport. The key takeaway lesson from Artem to our academics? Go all in!Episode Highlights🧬 Fighting is in our DNA💪 MMA vs Bare-knuckle boxing⏰ Early Retirement🥃 Whiskey!👕 Designing a clothing brandConnectKeep up with all of Artem's exciting developments on his Instagram.Visit our website to find links to our YouTube channel, other social media, show notes, and more!Make a beautiful podcast website with Podpage.Explore professional recording options with Riverside.fm.Liked Jay's t-shirt from this episode? Get your own at INTO THE AM.*Some of the links above are affiliate links and The Tragedy Academy will receive proceeds from purchases made using them.*Mentioned in this episode:Connect with us!📲 Connect with us!
https://www.thetragedyacademy.com
✨ Resources & Affiliate Links:
💻 Create your own stunning podcast website with PodPage: https://bit.ly/3LSCBh5
🎙️ Elevate your recording game with Riverside.fm: https://bit.ly/3ImjNWD
👕 Love Jay's t-shirt from this episode? Get your own at INTO THE AM: https://bit.ly/431MLD5
📚 For Tragedy Academy-recommended books and authors, visit our Bookshop:
https://bit.ly/42pPHcv
📲 Connect with us!
📺 Don't forget to Subscribe to our YouTube channel! 💥 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEUXqlregig6vcrvuVNGlKg
🙏 If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more enlightening discussions and hilarious moments. Be cool, and keep learning!
📲 Connect with us on socials!
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEUXqlregig6vcrvuVNGlKg
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetragedyacademypodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheTragedyAcademy
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Tragedy_AcademyThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy
Monday Aug 01, 2022
Monday Aug 01, 2022
Summary
Welcome to the Tragedy Academy's very first detention episode! With the teachers away, Jay and Gary get up to more shenanigans and our favorite delinquents have brought some seriously heavy-hitting topics. From Teddy Ruxpin bumping Wu Tang Clan in church to nightmarish ER visits, they've got it all. Plus special announcements on new ventures for the Tragedy Academy! Don't miss out!
Episode Highlights
🎵 90's Music
💉 ER Visits
🐊 Florida Man
🏎️ Ruining rental cars
🥽 Safety tips
🚀 Welcome to The Tragedy Academy Podcast 🚀
Immerse yourself in the transformative power of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, an extraordinary platform showcasing stories of resilience and redemption. As we unravel the rich tapestry of human experiences, our episodes meld wisdom with wit, enlightening and entertaining. Hosted with profound empathy, we delve into the indomitable spirit of our guests, providing our audience with opportunities to gain insights, share laughter, and experience growth. Become a part of our community that values genuine connections and collective healing through the strength of shared narratives.
📲 Connect with Us!
Explore more about The Tragedy Academy: https://www.thetragedyacademy.com
🌟 Support and Grow With Us 🌟
🎧 Podcasting Made Easy: Build your stunning podcast website with Podpage:
Podpage: https://bit.ly/3LSCBh5.
📲Take your recording to the next level with Riverside.fm
Riverside.FM: https://bit.ly/3ImjNWD
👕 Get the Gear Loved Jay's t-shirt from the latest episode? Grab yours at Into the AM.
Into the AM: https://bit.ly/431MLD5.
📘 Expand Your Mind Dive into our recommended reads at our Bookshop.
Bookshop: https://bit.ly/42pPHcv.
✅ Stay Updated – Subscribe! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and never miss an episode.
📱 Follow Us on Social Media
Instagram: @thetragedyacademypodcast
Facebook:@TheTragedyAcademyPodcast
Twitter: @Tragedy_Academy
TikTok: @thetragedyacademy
💖 Support The Tragedy Academy. Your support helps us keep bringing meaningful content. Consider donating through PayPal or BuyMeACoffee.
PayPal Donate: https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=YMU9L4TBWX6AG
Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/tragedyacademy
Monday Jul 25, 2022
Monday Jul 25, 2022
Summary
This week, tattoo artist and actor Sam Suarez, a.k.a. High Noon, is on the show. A star of Tattoo Nightmares Miami, Sam offers a unique insider perspective into the art of tattooing and how he has translated that experience into acting. Plenty of bad tattoos are discussed, as are the larger themes of transparency and transformation. Make sure you don't miss out on this contribution to our larger discussion of authenticity!
Episode Highlights
🤠 Moving To The Midwest
🎨 Changing Canvases
❌ Bad Tattoos
📚 Superheroes And Literacy
👨🎨 Digital Renaissance
🚀 Welcome to The Tragedy Academy Podcast 🚀
Immerse yourself in the transformative power of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, an extraordinary platform showcasing stories of resilience and redemption. As we unravel the rich tapestry of human experiences, our episodes meld wisdom with wit, enlightening and entertaining. Hosted with profound empathy, we delve into the indomitable spirit of our guests, providing our audience with opportunities to gain insights, share laughter, and experience growth. Become a part of our community that values genuine connections and collective healing through the strength of shared narratives.
📲 Connect with Us!
Explore more about The Tragedy Academy: https://www.thetragedyacademy.com
🌟 Support and Grow With Us 🌟
🎧 Podcasting Made Easy: Build your stunning podcast website with Podpage:
Podpage: https://bit.ly/3LSCBh5.
📲Take your recording to the next level with Riverside.fm
Riverside.FM: https://bit.ly/3ImjNWD
👕 Get the Gear Loved Jay's t-shirt from the latest episode? Grab yours at Into the AM.
Into the AM: https://bit.ly/431MLD5.
📘 Expand Your Mind Dive into our recommended reads at our Bookshop.
Bookshop: https://bit.ly/42pPHcv.
✅ Stay Updated – Subscribe! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and never miss an episode.
📱 Follow Us on Social Media
Instagram: @thetragedyacademypodcast
Facebook:@TheTragedyAcademyPodcast
Twitter: @Tragedy_Academy
TikTok: @thetragedyacademy
💖 Support The Tragedy Academy. Your support helps us keep bringing meaningful content. Consider donating through PayPal or BuyMeACoffee.
PayPal Donate: https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=YMU9L4TBWX6AG
Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/tragedyacademy
Monday Jul 18, 2022
Monday Jul 18, 2022
SummaryThis week we're joined by professional fighter and Moyamoya survivor Vince Murdock. Vince has gone through a lot of setbacks in life:A Moyamoya diagnosis led to brain surgery.Injuries dogged his career.A car accident came out of nowhere.Others may have crumpled, but Vince proved his fighting spirit and returned from it all. You won't want to miss this episode as Vince shares parts of his challenging childhood and how it has affected raising his son. The group discusses the merits of alternative medicines and fighting as a universal language and art form.Episode Highlights👑 Comeback king💯 Leading by example🔗 Breaking the cycle⚔️ The art of fighting🌿 Alternative medicineConnectYou can find Vince on Instagram and Twitter.Donate and learn more about Moyamoya.Visit our website to find links to our YouTube channel, other social media, show notes, and more!Make a beautiful podcast website with Podpage.Explore professional recording options with Riverside.FM.Liked Jay's t-shirt from this episode? Get your own at INTO THE AM.*Some of the links above are affiliate links, and The Tragedy Academy will receive proceeds from purchases made using them.*M1ZduQKFQTTiWGqdx3uQMentioned in this episode:Connect with us!📲 Connect with us!
https://www.thetragedyacademy.com
✨ Resources & Affiliate Links:
💻 Create your own stunning podcast website with PodPage: https://bit.ly/3LSCBh5
🎙️ Elevate your recording game with Riverside.fm: https://bit.ly/3ImjNWD
👕 Love Jay's t-shirt from this episode? Get your own at INTO THE AM: https://bit.ly/431MLD5
📚 For Tragedy Academy-recommended books and authors, visit our Bookshop:
https://bit.ly/42pPHcv
📲 Connect with us!
📺 Don't forget to Subscribe to our YouTube channel! 💥 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEUXqlregig6vcrvuVNGlKg
🙏 If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more enlightening discussions and hilarious moments. Be cool, and keep learning!
📲 Connect with us on socials!
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEUXqlregig6vcrvuVNGlKg
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetragedyacademypodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheTragedyAcademy
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Tragedy_AcademyThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy
Monday Jul 11, 2022
Monday Jul 11, 2022
Summary
In this episode, we welcome professional fighter Bobby Maximus to the show. A long-time friend of Gary's, the two first met on the set of The Ultimate Fighter years ago and discussed their shared experience on the show. Bobby also shares his experience of growing up in a community focused on generosity and acts of service - he credits this upbringing as the source of his philosophy today: kindness makes the world go around. Living out his dreams and pursuing his hobbies - regardless of what other people think - Bobby challenges all of us to live our best and chase our goals without fear.
Episode Highlights
😍 Go after what you want
☀️ Live every day like it is your last
💰 Define your own success
☮️ The opposite of regret is peace
💖 Change the world with kindness
😎 It's cool to be a nerd
🚀 Welcome to The Tragedy Academy Podcast 🚀
Immerse yourself in the transformative power of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, an extraordinary platform showcasing stories of resilience and redemption. As we unravel the rich tapestry of human experiences, our episodes meld wisdom with wit, enlightening and entertaining. Hosted with profound empathy, we delve into the indomitable spirit of our guests, providing our audience with opportunities to gain insights, share laughter, and experience growth. Become a part of our community that values genuine connections and collective healing through the strength of shared narratives.
📲 Connect with Us!
Explore more about The Tragedy Academy: https://www.thetragedyacademy.com
🌟 Support and Grow With Us 🌟
🎧 Podcasting Made Easy: Build your stunning podcast website with Podpage:
Podpage: https://bit.ly/3LSCBh5.
📲Take your recording to the next level with Riverside.fm
Riverside.FM: https://bit.ly/3ImjNWD
👕 Get the Gear Loved Jay's t-shirt from the latest episode? Grab yours at Into the AM.
Into the AM: https://bit.ly/431MLD5.
📘 Expand Your Mind Dive into our recommended reads at our Bookshop.
Bookshop: https://bit.ly/42pPHcv.
✅ Stay Updated – Subscribe! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and never miss an episode.
📱 Follow Us on Social Media
Instagram: @thetragedyacademypodcast
Facebook:@TheTragedyAcademyPodcast
Twitter: @Tragedy_Academy
TikTok: @thetragedyacademy
💖 Support The Tragedy Academy. Your support helps us keep bringing meaningful content. Consider donating through PayPal or BuyMeACoffee.
PayPal Donate: https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=YMU9L4TBWX6AG
Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/tragedyacademy
Monday Jul 04, 2022
Monday Jul 04, 2022
SummaryThis week Jay and Gary are joined by an extra special guest: Jay’s father-in-law, Gabriel Torres…and he’s got quite the story to tell. Gabe grew up in Colombia where as a student he was a basketball star. After graduating high school, Gabe had an opportunity to come to the US and another adventure began. Gabe built a life here: met his wife, had a family, and played street ball in NYC in the 70s. Gabe’s story is an immigrant one, and also an American one.Episode Highlights🏀 Street Ball👣 An Immigrant’s Journey➡️ Be Here, Not There🏡 Finding Home👂 Listen FirstConnectVisit our website to find links to our YouTube channel, other social media, show notes, and more!Make a beautiful podcast website with Podpage.Explore professional recording options with Riverside.fm.Liked Jay's t-shirt from this episode? Get your own at INTO THE AM.*Some of the links above are affiliate links and The Tragedy Academy will receive proceeds from purchases made using them.*Mentioned in this episode:Connect with us!📲 Connect with us!
https://www.thetragedyacademy.com
✨ Resources & Affiliate Links:
💻 Create your own stunning podcast website with PodPage: https://bit.ly/3LSCBh5
🎙️ Elevate your recording game with Riverside.fm: https://bit.ly/3ImjNWD
👕 Love Jay's t-shirt from this episode? Get your own at INTO THE AM: https://bit.ly/431MLD5
📚 For Tragedy Academy-recommended books and authors, visit our Bookshop:
https://bit.ly/42pPHcv
📲 Connect with us!
📺 Don't forget to Subscribe to our YouTube channel! 💥 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEUXqlregig6vcrvuVNGlKg
🙏 If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more enlightening discussions and hilarious moments. Be cool, and keep learning!
📲 Connect with us on socials!
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEUXqlregig6vcrvuVNGlKg
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetragedyacademypodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheTragedyAcademy
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Tragedy_AcademyThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy
Monday Jun 27, 2022
Monday Jun 27, 2022
Summary
Jay and Gary are joined in the studio by musician and rapper, Matthew Scheall. Matthew came to music a little later in the game, not starting his journey until college when he was inspired and encouraged by close friends. Matthew has grown as an artist in the years since embracing his authentic self and staying true to his faith. You won’t want to miss this episode as the gang talks about the ins and outs of artistry, creativity, and music.
Episode Highlights
💡 Discovering your inner artist
🤗 Importance of a Supportive Environment
💯 Artistic Authenticity
💙 Believing In Yourself
🧗 Overcoming Your Implicit Biases
🚀 Welcome to The Tragedy Academy Podcast 🚀
Immerse yourself in the transformative power of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, an extraordinary platform showcasing stories of resilience and redemption. As we unravel the rich tapestry of human experiences, our episodes meld wisdom with wit, enlightening and entertaining. Hosted with profound empathy, we delve into the indomitable spirit of our guests, providing our audience with opportunities to gain insights, share laughter, and experience growth. Become a part of our community that values genuine connections and collective healing through the strength of shared narratives.
📲 Connect with Us!
Explore more about The Tragedy Academy: https://www.thetragedyacademy.com
🌟 Support and Grow With Us 🌟
🎧 Podcasting Made Easy: Build your stunning podcast website with Podpage:
Podpage: https://bit.ly/3LSCBh5.
📲Take your recording to the next level with Riverside.fm
Riverside.FM: https://bit.ly/3ImjNWD
👕 Get the Gear Loved Jay's t-shirt from the latest episode? Grab yours at Into the AM.
Into the AM: https://bit.ly/431MLD5.
📘 Expand Your Mind Dive into our recommended reads at our Bookshop.
Bookshop: https://bit.ly/42pPHcv.
✅ Stay Updated – Subscribe! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and never miss an episode.
📱 Follow Us on Social Media
Instagram: @thetragedyacademypodcast
Facebook:@TheTragedyAcademyPodcast
Twitter: @Tragedy_Academy
TikTok: @thetragedyacademy
💖 Support The Tragedy Academy. Your support helps us keep bringing meaningful content. Consider donating through PayPal or BuyMeACoffee.
PayPal Donate: https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=YMU9L4TBWX6AG
Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/tragedyacademy
Sunday Jun 19, 2022
Sunday Jun 19, 2022
SummaryTo kick off the third season of The Tragedy Academy, Jay and Gary are joined by Ellie Neidhart, the wife of late WWE legend, Jim The Anvil Neidhart. Jay and Gary are able to geek out over their shared childhood experiences of watching wrestling, while Ellie gives us her unique perspective on the sport. Things weren’t always easy: Ellie often functioned as a single mother because Jim had to travel so much for his wrestling career, and the convenience of communication certainly wasn’t what it is today! But throughout the episode, Ellie emphasizes the true love they shared and the special relationship they had.Episode Highlights🎉 Welcome to Our New Co-host!🤼♂️ WWE Legends🏡 Supportive Family💞 Destined Love💪 The Power Of SportConnectFind Ellie on Instagram.Visit our website to find links to our YouTube channel, other social media, show notes, and more!Make a beautiful podcast website with Podpage.Explore professional recording options with Riverside.fm.Liked Jay's t-shirt from this episode? Get your own at INTO THE AM.*Some of the links above are affiliate links and The Tragedy Academy will receive proceeds from purchases made using them.*Mentioned in this episode:Connect with us!📲 Connect with us!
https://www.thetragedyacademy.com
✨ Resources & Affiliate Links:
💻 Create your own stunning podcast website with PodPage: https://bit.ly/3LSCBh5
🎙️ Elevate your recording game with Riverside.fm: https://bit.ly/3ImjNWD
👕 Love Jay's t-shirt from this episode? Get your own at INTO THE AM: https://bit.ly/431MLD5
📚 For Tragedy Academy-recommended books and authors, visit our Bookshop:
https://bit.ly/42pPHcv
📲 Connect with us!
📺 Don't forget to Subscribe to our YouTube channel! 💥 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEUXqlregig6vcrvuVNGlKg
🙏 If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more enlightening discussions and hilarious moments. Be cool, and keep learning!
📲 Connect with us on socials!
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEUXqlregig6vcrvuVNGlKg
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetragedyacademypodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheTragedyAcademy
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Tragedy_AcademyThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy
Sunday Jun 19, 2022
Sunday Jun 19, 2022
SummaryWelcome to The Tragedy Academy... 2.0! In this episode get the scoop on what we have in store for our relaunch. Jay sits down with our new co-host, Gary, to talk about this new era of TA - from new team members to new merch, we've got it all. We also give a huge thank you to everyone who contributed to the re-release, and another huge thank you to all the Academics out there for your continued support ❤️ Episode Highlights👨👩👧👦 Meet the team💪 Preview our awesome guests to kickoff the relaunch🎬 New episode formats🛍 Rundown on our merch🤑 Sponsors and affiliates to support the podConnectVisit our website to find links to our YouTube channel, other social media, show notes, and more!Make a beautiful podcast website with Podpage.Explore professional recording options with Riverside.fm.Liked Jay's t-shirt from this episode? Get your own at INTO THE AM.*Some of the links above are affiliate links and The Tragedy Academy will receive proceeds from purchases made using them.*Mentioned in this episode:Connect with us!📲 Connect with us!
https://www.thetragedyacademy.com
✨ Resources & Affiliate Links:
💻 Create your own stunning podcast website with PodPage: https://bit.ly/3LSCBh5
🎙️ Elevate your recording game with Riverside.fm: https://bit.ly/3ImjNWD
👕 Love Jay's t-shirt from this episode? Get your own at INTO THE AM: https://bit.ly/431MLD5
📚 For Tragedy Academy-recommended books and authors, visit our Bookshop:
https://bit.ly/42pPHcv
📲 Connect with us!
📺 Don't forget to Subscribe to our YouTube channel! 💥 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEUXqlregig6vcrvuVNGlKg
🙏 If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more enlightening discussions and hilarious moments. Be cool, and keep learning!
📲 Connect with us on socials!
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEUXqlregig6vcrvuVNGlKg
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetragedyacademypodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheTragedyAcademy
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Tragedy_AcademyThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy