The Chat

#49 Once More, With Lorenz

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Mike Lorenz returns for another wide-ranging chat with Robert about all the problems of the day. And there are so many problems.

48 - The Master Debaters

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Chatting about Robert's travels, reading, writing, genre fiction, the debate trainwreck (we couldn't avoid it), Carlos's vacation plans, the death of the pickup game for kids, the brutality of partisan politics, and the shocking lack of wisdom inherent in the perineal suntanning fad.

#47 Lorenz Explains It All

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Friend of the show Mike Lorenz returns! He and Robert chat about the heat of summer, not letting your smart phone run your life, nuclear power, tailwinds of growth, and money, money, money.

#46 - Robyn Haines Q&A with Robert, Part 2

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Friend of the podcast Robyn Haines returns to ask Robert many, many fan questions about Girl in the Box, with a few peppered in about Sanctuary and Southern Watch. Part 2 of 2. SPOILER WARNING! If you're not up to date on Girl in the Box, Sanctuary, and Southern Watch, you should probably sit this one out.

#45 Robyn Haines Q&A with Robert, Part 1

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Friend of the podcast Robyn Haines returns to ask Robert many, many fan questions about Girl in the Box, with a few peppered in about Sanctuary and Southern Watch. Part 1 of 2. SPOILER WARNING! If you're not up to date on Girl in the Box, Sanctuary, and Southern Watch, you should probably sit this one out.

#44 - Carlos Gives Up on Being a Dictator

Fri, 17 May 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Episode #44 - Chatting about Robert's monomaniacal obsession with owning books, why Carlos has given up on being a dictator, why our kids are our greatest joy, Carlos's new AI bestie, and why fans make better Facebook friends than other authors.

#43 Robert Has P-nu-mo-nia

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0500

Robert and Carlos chat about Robert's latest ailment, the benefits of genetic testing, the plethora of AI tools, the ups and downs of book publishing, and interlude with a garage door.

If you're an author looking for a manager/agent (CGC's manager has one, maybe two openings) to take care of ALL writer business stuff so you can focus on WRITING, email Carlos at cgc@cg-cooper.com and he'll whisk your info to his rockstar manager/agent for consideration.

#42 - Matt Davis - Comedy, Wild Dogs, and Justice

Sat, 06 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0500

This week Robert welcomes guest Matt Davis and they chat about stand-up comedy, Matt's dog Cali (yes, that one), the shocking rise of anti-semitism over the last few years, rigged games, the downsides of the justice system, and the gangs of South America.

#41 The Boys Are Back

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Reunited and it feels so good! Carlos and Robert are back with a extra-long conversation that wanders through some of the favorite topics on their minds: AI and how it may save or obliterate us, how Hollywood is constipated, why the kids aren't growing up, and the business of authoring.

#40 - Mike Lorenz - Once More Unto the BTC Breach

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0600

NOTE: This episode was recorded February 18th, when the price of Bitcoin was around $51,000.

Returning guest and friend of the podcast Mike Lorenz returns to discuss AI, money, Bitcoin, and the financial messes we live with.

#39 Face Off

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Chatting about rising chaos, fantasy football drafts, things that bring the TSA down on you, the radicals of the sixties, and how Robert is allergic to his own face.

#38 Mike Lorenz - Bitcoin, Business and Society

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Chatting with guest Mike Lorenz about Bitcoin, how CFOs sped up smartphone adoption, the urban doom loop in San Francisco, 'zombie companies', the abuses of private equity investing, and the implications of eradicating morality from social and business relationships.

#37 High Noon in New York City

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Chatting about writing Westerns, the creative process, maintaining steady success, the trials of parenting during summer, taking inspiration from the Fast and Furious movies, the realities of international relations, solo travel and New York City's reputation through the decades.

#36 The Power of Art and Passion: A Conversation with Brad Warren

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Part 2 of Carlos's conversation with Brad Warren, on half of the hit songwriting duo The Warren Brothers.

Ever wondered what the journey of a song looks like, from the writing room to the radio? Well, my good friend and Grammy-nominated songwriter, Brad Warren, is here to unravel the mystery. Together, we navigate the intricate process and share stories of unexpected breakthroughs in the music industry - like how rapper Connor Price and his wife spun a globe for their next collab decision and powered through electricity outages in Zambia.

As we wade through the world of rhymes and records, we explore the traditional music industry versus the newer, more creative forms of art showcase. Brad and I swap notes on the potential of AI, the power of mentorship, and lessons from the successful young songwriter, Ernest. We also delve into the appreciation of passion as we discuss Elon Musk's achievements and remind ourselves that it's vital to stay curious, not envious.

If you've ever chased success or felt overwhelmed by it, our chat on balancing success and downtime will resonate with you. We stress the importance of having a well-structured day, managing time, and pushing past comfort zones. We cap off with heart-warming stories of finding perspective, inspiration from others, and how small decisions can create significant impacts.

Check out Brad's podcast, The Good Grief Good God Show: https://goodgriefgoodgodshow.com

#35 From Rock Star Dreams to Songwriter Success: A Journey with Brad Warren - Part 1

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Part 1 of Carlos's conversation with Brad Warren, half of the hit-writing duo The Warren Brothers. Get ready to be captivated by the life and journey of none other than Brad Warren, the multi-number one writing and Grammy-nominated songwriter from Nashville. This chat with Brad is nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. Starting from his initial dream of pursuing a rock star career, forged by the powerful chords of classic rock, to his battles with addiction, and his rise as a successful songwriter, Brad's story is an inspiration.

Experience the power of mentorship through the tales of Brad's mentor, Tom Douglas. Learn about Tom's distinctive writing style, his vast vocabulary, and his heart full of dreams. Brad doesn't shy away from discussing the profound influence of young songwriters and how their seemingly rule-less writing often leads to extraordinary work. This conversation also uncovers how Brad incorporates his personal experiences and truth-telling to connect with his audience.

Finally, don't miss out as we journey into Brad's creative process. He stresses the importance of understanding one's writing style and shares how he overcame the pressures of the songwriting industry. From using advice given by friends in shaping his writing to putting words on paper to unlock creativity.

Check out Brad's podcast, The Good Grief Good God Show: https://goodgriefgoodgodshow.com

#34 Robert Considers A Career In Sexy Stand-Up Comedy

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Join us as we unravel the mysteries of creativity, drawing inspiration from Elizabeth Gilbert's book, 'Big Magic'. We dive into the importance of seizing ideas when they occur and the liberating feeling of discarding ones that don't resonate. We also share how we've adapted our writing approach, creating a sticky note system that fosters a vibrant idea pool.

Think back to the last time you accomplished a manual task. Maybe it was mending a broken fence or even baking a loaf of bread. Remember the satisfaction of immediate and tangible results? We bring you the extraordinary tale of a retired corporate executive who traded boardroom meetings for farming in South Dakota. The immediacy and satisfaction of manual labor contrasted with his former corporate life, bringing about a profound perspective change. We further discuss our method of character tracking in writing and the simple joy of crossing items off a checklist.

Our conversation takes us through a variety of subjects, from a retired cardiac surgeon's unexpected journey into cattle farming to the influences of the sexual revolution on stand-up comedy. We share our thoughts on the evolution of Nashville's skyline, our book reading habits, and engage in a spirited debate on the preservation of history versus progress. And of course, we have some light-hearted banter about the mild discomfort of attending the Opry with your father-in-law.

#33 Robert Takes On The Cigarette Butt Baron

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Chatting about Christopher Nolan, the genius behind the films like 'Following', 'Insomnia', and 'Memento', diving into the depth and layers of his narratives. It's not just about the films, we also explore how his creations stand apart from modern cinematic norms.

Shifting gears from Nolan's cinematic world, we delve into the changing landscape of Hollywood. (Carlos wonders what the hell its all about) Ever thought about how streaming services have disrupted traditional compensation models for writers? Or, how the quest for storytelling sometimes ends up in unsatisfying endings? We draw parallels between modern comedic TV shows and the timeless 'I Love Lucy'. Also, come laugh with us as we discuss the unique style of standup comedy and the comedic genius of Nate Bargatze.

Finally, Robert tells us about his family trip along the East Coast. (FAIR WARNING: he's got choice words for Asheville). From exploring the beauty of Asheville, North Carolina, to the culinary delights of Charleston, South Carolina, we share our experiences and reflections. We also tackle some serious issues, addressing addiction and the responsibility that comes with dealing with substance abuse.

#32 Debating Mission Impossible vs Marvel, College Education Value, and Sharing Food Memories

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Carlos & Robert chat: Have you ever wondered how the Mission Impossible series manages to deliver one thrilling installment after another? We unpack this mystery in our latest episode, discussing director Christopher Macquarie's captivating style and Tom Cruise's ability to drive a story. We also draw comparisons between the practical effects of the Mission Impossible series and the CGI of Marvel movies. Plus, get ready to experience the nostalgia as we revisit the legendary Harrison Ford’s varied roles and the iconic DeLorean from Back to the Future.

As we venture further, we address the ongoing debate on the value of a college education. Can you imagine attending college classes without paying or having an AI professor? To lighten the mood, we confess our favorite Taco Bell treats and our cherished taco spots, and even delve into the fascinating world of pies.

We then move on to discuss our football fandom, and the unique spirit of attending high school football games. We also offer an insider's view of the University of Central Florida's growth and how universities attract students. Our conversation about career choices and self-actualization is especially enlightening as we share our thoughts on the importance of choosing a career path that brings joy rather than misery. Lastly, we end on a scrumptious note, reminiscing about our favorite food memories from Taco Bell, tortilla making, and our ultimate pies and crumbles.

#31 Summer Adventures, Hollywood Trends, Economic Insights, and Food Debates

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Robert & Carlos chat: We take you from Orlando, to the green of Alaska, and through riveting tales of family reunions in Michigan and food in Chattanooga. Scenic hikes and gaming events.

Avid film buffs, we don't just stop at travel tales. We venture into Hollywood, dissecting the trend of deconstructed hero tropes and their impact on characters we hold dear. We share our insights on films like Force Awakens and Indiana Jones 5, and mull over Harrison Ford's comeback and the intriguing role of Phoebe Waller-Bridge.

We tackle some serious economic concerns, discussing the challenges tech startups face in a cash-poor environment and the looming economic downturn. We consider its potential impact on the world of streaming services, and share some valuable financial lessons we've learned along the way. As we wrap up our journey, we invite you to join us in debating the merits of turkey legs vs. chicken legs and sharing our favorite food adventures.

#30 Life's Sweet Chaos: Balancing Sugar, Self-Care, and a Side of Humor

Fri, 28 Jul 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Robert and Carlos chat: We've all had those chaotic summers where life feels like a whirlwind, and this year was no exception for us. Amidst dance recitals, in-law visits, and writing struggles, we decided to take a break and have a heart-to-heart about everything from navigating the dangers of sugar addiction to which movie to watch.

#29 Carbo-Loading The Sexual Revolution

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Episode 29: Chatting about the carb-loaded first week of summer, the corrosive effects of reboot/remake culture, Robert, the fantasy author can’t remember Anduril, Flame of the West, a deep discussion into the greatest TV show of the last decade, and the fraught consequences of the sexual revolution.

#28 Ben Middleton - Regional CEO of Centerstone

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Episode 28 - Carlos chats with Ben Middleton, Regional CEO of Centerstone. They talk about the life-changing power of mentors, early years, figuring things out, the compounding effect of doing the right thing, parents having the courage to move the family for a new start, finding your aptitude and personal connection.

For more information on Centerstone and their mental health and addiction services visit https://centerstone.org

#27 Mike Lorenz - Ins & Outs of Bank Failures

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Episode 27 - Robert chats with Mike Lorenz about the affinity of psychopaths for gin, the ins and outs of bank failures, who’s going to buy the US debt, the domino theory of the financial system, revolutions, bad economic theory, the rise of individualism, and who is rewriting the code of society?

#26 Robert Explores The Louvre's Basement

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Episode 26 - Chatting about alligator farm investment opportunities, mortal combat sports, the locus of control theory, the power of military wives, hidden secrets in the basement of the Louvre, Robert’s unquenchable craving for Middle Eastern food, the boys’ longing for brunch, and the taste of poverty.

#25 Living The Teenage Dream

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Episode 25 - Chatting about the plague on the pantry that is teenage boys, sustainable dieting, the explosive growth of health care costs and college administration, and how the American education system is a badly-engineered relic.

#24: Why Are We So Dramatic?

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Episode 24 - Chatting about mystery box storytelling, why a friend will jump in a hole with you, commiserating about the worst part of writing a book, how men develop respect after fist fighting, and why authors are the most dramatic people.

#23 The Boys Mess With AI

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Episode 23 - Robert’s startling confession, naming your AI before it commits suicide, how Carlos got advice from Sigmund Freud without needing a seance, and how driving your enemies before you and hearing the lamentations of their women has become a lost art.

#22 What Do Authors Worry About?

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Episode 22 - Chatting about writing and finishing a series, keeping up with old friends, rediscovering the fundamentals, writing our own biographies, sharing your struggles, and the value of working your @$$ off for success.

#21 Mike Rhodes of Cleerly Health

Fri, 26 May 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Episode 21: Carlos chats with his friend Mike Rhodes of Cleerly Health. They also delve into Red Bull beginnings, the evolution of sales, preventative healthcare, the current state of Atlanta, looking out for goats and embracing AI for a better world.

If you're interested in finding out more about Cleerly Health, or want to share with your primary care provider, visit Cleerly at CleerlyHealth.com

#20 Robert chats w/ Robyn Haines Pt. 2

Fri, 19 May 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Episode 20 - Special guest Robyn Haines asks Robert fan questions about his books, and they chat about his Indiana Jones moment, how Robert’s kid guessed a story secret no one else has, how to plot a book, and the unfortunate trend(?!) of men in yoga pants.

#19 Robert chats w/ Robyn Haines Pt.1

Fri, 12 May 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Episode 19 - Robert chats with special guest Robyn Haines about her career as a veterinary pathologist, what she does, about that time Robert wrestled a bear, the immense casualties of the recent chicken flu, using taxidermy for comedic purposes, and the circuitous route Robyn took to get to where she is.

#18 Overstimulated on AI?

Fri, 05 May 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Episode 18 - Why Carlos is overstimulated, on AI and optimism, raising awareness with Chris Pratt, why Robert believes the Foundation series is a crime against humanity, a meditation on Kevin Smith’s Askewniverse, and a discussion about the merits of the cinema-going experience.

#17 Meth & Bananas

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Episode 17 - Chatting about the SVB Bank run, Monopoly should just be a board game, Tennessee’s electric vehicle future, overthrowing governments for bananas, men’s desire to follow the call to adventure, and musings on meth.

#16: John Wick vs. Mickey Mouse

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Episode 16 - Learning to load and fire a cannon, why Mickey Mouse could be the next porno star, the concept of luxury beliefs, everyone should be punched in the face at least once, what wealth meant to us growing up, on owning a house, not pigeonholding children, a short delve into the book The Devil in the White City, and Robert’s review of John Wick 4.

#15: What's Wrong With Brandon Sanderson?

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Episode 15 - Chatting about vacations, finishing a book series, why the Canadians should make a small change to their otherwise excellent national anthem, the pitfalls of English cuisine, why you should invade an Iraqi restaurant immediately, the ins and outs of patisserie, the guttersnipe press attack on Brandon Sanderson, and South American burglary gangs.

#14: Sports vs. Marvel

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Episode 14: Part 2 of Robert's chat with Dan Prestegaard. Chatting about comedy and character, the downfall of Marvel, modern storytelling, the appeal of sports, Staten Island’s place in the NYC hierarchy, and traveling for research versus using Google Earth.

#13: Forever Intrawebs & Burgers

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Episode 13: Chat with Dan Prestegaard. Chatting about what a Chief Information Officer is, avoiding hackers, how the internet is forever, the New York State of Mind, raising daughters, and the best breakfast and best burger in Nashville.

#12: Robert Chats w/ Mike Lorenz

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Episode 12: Robert chats with his friend Mike Lorenz about knowin’ when to fold ‘em, Robert’s new concept of “intellectual licensing,” their ground zero experience with the 2008 financial crisis, why Mike believes Bitcoin is the future of money and all other cryptocurrencies are sh*tcoins.

Disclaimer: this episode's content is not to be construed as financial advice.

#11: Sniping English Degrees

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 01:00:00 -0500

Episode 11 - Chatting about Roald Dahl’s post-mortem edits, why snipers are the best, how we should deal with objectionable statues, when to quit, having an English degree sucks, and forgiveness.

#10: Power Brokering Fun

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 01:00:00 -0600

Episode 10 - Chatting about finishing books, how learning can be fun, frustrations of writing, pulp fiction, and Robert’s dissertation on the Pulitzer Prize-winning book The Power Broker.

Episode 9: Insomniac's Guide To The Other White Meat

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 01:00:00 -0600

Episode 9 - Chatting about Paris, the other white meat, all things Yellowstone, the miserable lives of rockstars, the science of insomnia, and not exhibiting signs.

Episode 8: Pew Pew Goes The Plane

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 01:00:00 -0600

Episode 8 - Chatting about crime, shooting at planes in Mexico, urban doom loops, and the greatness of New York.

Episode 7: Tom Clancy Says No To Drugs

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 01:00:00 -0600

Episode 7 - Chatting about writing, motivation, why nobody writes like Tom Clancy anymore, tripping balls, and why you shouldn’t do drugs, kids.

Episode 6: Robert Robs A Bank

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 01:00:00 -0600

Episode 6 - Chatting about why we won’t buy Teslas, fan baiting, racism, the time Robert got accused of being a bank robber, and the LOL-worthy demise of Buzzfeed at the hands of ChatGPT.

Episode 5: Is Raw Milk Modern Art?

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Episode 5 - Chatting about Carlos’s family history, places to see in DC, celeb sightings, how raw milk drinkers are a cult, buying a tank, and why Tom Wolfe is right about modern art.

Episode 4: The Problem With Royal Ex-Marines

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 01:00:00 -0600

Episode 4 - Chatting about Charles Murray’s book Coming Apart, the downfall of Marvel and Star Wars, the Spare and the human fascination with royalty, the problem with ex-Marines, and guns.

Episode 3: Wearing Suits to Farmstead

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 13:00:00 -0600

Episode 3 - Chatting about China’s hegemonic plans, corruption around the world, Tiktok, the glories and perils of farmsteading, bingeing Suits and why neither of us became lawyers.

Episode 2: Knives and Redemption

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 13:00:00 -0600

Episode 2 - Chatting about knives, why Asheville, North Carolina is both beautiful and terrible, homelessness in America, kids and marriage, SBF and redemption, and how the news gets made.

Episode 1: Origins and No-Go Zones

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 13:00:00 -0600

Episode 1 - Chatting about business, origin stories, restaurants, the consequences of ChatGPT and fencing off subjects of debate.