Celebrating the Life of Jerry Herman with Jane Dorian

Introduction

Dr. Allen Lycka hosts Jane Dorian, goddaughter and dedicated manager of the works of Jerry Herman, the iconic composer and lyricist behind Broadway classics such as Hello Dolly, La Cage Aux Folles, and Mame. Together, they explore the life, career, and everlasting legacy of Herman, whose music continues to inspire generations.

Key Topics Discussed

1. The Legacy of Jerry Herman

• Jerry Herman’s enduring influence on Broadway and the LGBTQ+ community through his work on shows like La Cage Aux Folles and songs like I Am What I Am.
• Highlights of Herman's notable songs from Hello Dolly and other productions, such as We Need a Little Christmas and Before the Parade Passes By.

2. The Little-Known Facts

• Jerry Herman's unexpected involvement in writing the theme song for Barney the Dinosaur. Jane shares a heartwarming story about how Herman, as her daughter’s godfather, was inspired by her love for Barney.
• Louis Armstrong’s spontaneous recording of Hello Dolly, which unexpectedly became a massive hit, even surpassing The Beatles on the charts.

3. Hello Dolly and Its Significance

• The impact of Hello Dolly in the U.S. after President Kennedy's assassination, serving as a symbol of hope and second chances.
• The iconic role of Dolly was originally offered to Broadway legends like Ethel Merman and Mary Martin before Carol Channing made it legendary.

4. La Cage Aux Folles and Breaking Boundaries

• La Cage Aux Folles broke new ground by depicting gay families and advocating for acceptance during the early 1980s. The show's influence went beyond entertainment, addressing deep societal issues and promoting the visibility of LGBTQ+ families.

5. Jerry Herman’s Memorial and His Final Wishes

• Jane recalls the bittersweet experience of organizing Jerry Herman’s memorial, which featured Broadway stars such as Bernadette Peters, Leslie Uggams, and Betty Buckley.
• Herman's decision to be buried next to his mother and Jane's mother, leading to the auctioning of his crypt next to Marilyn Monroe and Hugh Hefner.

Notable Stories

• Jerry Herman’s unique approach to songwriting: Herman, along with Irving Berlin, was one of the few renowned composer-lyricists who couldn't read music.
• Herman's sense of humor and how it influenced his life and work, including lighthearted moments spent renaming paintings in New York museums with Jane.
• The relationship between Herman and Angela Lansbury, where Herman coached Lansbury for her role in Mame, sneaking into the audition to play her songs.

Actionable Advice or Tips

• Jerry Herman’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of resilience in the face of challenges, such as his ability to persevere after several Broadway failures.
• Young musicians and creatives can be inspired by Herman’s commitment to nurturing talent through the Jerry Herman/ASCAP Foundation Musical Theater Scholarship Program.

Guest Information

• Jane Dorian is the goddaughter of Jerry Herman and has made it her mission to keep his legacy alive through revivals of his work and managing his estate. She shares touching anecdotes and previously unknown stories about Herman’s life.

Conclusion

Jerry Herman’s life and work continue to resonate with people around the world. His musicals, full of joy, optimism, and deeper meaning, endure through constant revivals. For more information on his works and legacy, listeners can visit:

• JerryHerman.com
• Studio Auctions for Jerry Herman's Crypt
• Doyle Auctions for Memorabilia

Dr. Allen Lycka's Final Thoughts

For more episodes like this and to learn about living a fantastic life, visit Dr. Allen Lycka's website and sign up for the Golden Pearls newsletter.

• Host: Dr. Allen Lycka
• Guest: Robert Manolson, mental health advocate and creator of Powerful Play Experiences
• Topic: Overcoming depression and anxiety through play and positivity

Robert Manolson’s Approach to Mental Health

• Emphasis on Mental Health, Not Illness: Focus on managing depression and anxiety through positive experiences.
• Living with and Managing Mental Health: Understanding that mental health challenges are ongoing and part of daily life.

Overcoming Depression and Anxiety

• Play as a Healing Strategy: Robert uses play to manage his mental health positively.
• Mental Health as a Journey: Depression and anxiety don't have a clear beginning, middle, or end.

The Role of Play in Mental Health

• Play as Self-Care: Essential for positive mental health and being human.
• Workplace Play: Integrating fun and play into the work environment improves happiness and productivity.

Positive Mental Health at Work

• Definition: A space of well-being where everyone achieves their potential and can cope with normal stressors.
• Impact of Play: Enhances productivity, reduces sick days, and improves overall job satisfaction.

Strategies for Incorporating Play in the Workplace

• Customized Workshops: Robert designs play-based workshops tailored to the specific intentions of workplace leaders.
• Engaging Activities: Workshops involve interactive and playful activities, fostering joy and collaboration.

Benefits of Play in Organizations

• Happy Employees: More productive, fewer sick days, better recruitment, and retention.
• Positive Work Culture: Play promotes relationship building and a supportive work environment.

Robert’s Personal Insights and Definitions

• Mental Health Optimism: A term Robert uses to describe a positive outlook on mental health.
• Play as a Remedy: Play frees the soul from pain and creates space for joy and energy.

Conclusion

• Contact Information for Robert Manolson: Visit www.powerfulplay.ca for more information and to get in touch with Robert.
• Dr. Allen Lycka’s Speaking Services: For speaking engagements, visit www.drallenlycka.com and www.dralenspeaks.com.

Final Thoughts

• Embracing Play and Positivity: Shifting the focus from mental illness to mental health and optimism can lead to a more fulfilling life.
• Living a Fantastic Life: By integrating play and positive mental health strategies, we can achieve our best selves and lead happier lives.

Dr. Allen Lycka and Linda Young on Bicycle Security and Entrepreneurship

Introduction

Host: Dr. Allen Lycka

Guest: Linda Young, Founder of Pinhead Locks

Dr. Allen Lycka introduces fellow Edmontonian Linda Young, the leading expert on wheel and seat security for bicycles in North America and Europe. Inspired by the theft of her bike's front wheel in the ninth grade, Linda invented and brought to market innovative bicycle security solutions through her company, Pinhead Locks.

The Inspiration Behind Pinhead Locks

• Linda’s Story: In grade nine, Linda's new bike's front wheel was stolen, which motivated her to create a security lock.
• Parental Influence: Despite her mother’s skepticism and focus on academics, Linda persisted with her idea throughout her schooling.
• Development Process: After completing school, Linda created a business plan, developed prototypes, and worked with engineers to bring her invention to market.

Challenges and Rewards of Inventing

• Time and Effort: Inventing and bringing a product to market is time-consuming but rewarding, with only 1% of patents reaching the market.
• Industry Statistics: Many inventions end up in a "graveyard," but Pinhead Locks has found success.

The Problem with Quick Releases

• Safety Concerns: Linda argues that quick releases, though standard on many bikes, are unsafe for the average user.
• Personal Modifications: Linda replaced her bike's quick releases with Allen keys to prevent tampering.
• Education: Emphasizes the need to educate consumers, especially children, about bicycle security.

The Emotional Impact of Bicycle Theft

• Dr. Lycka's Experience: Recalls his childhood bicycle and the independence it provided.
• Financial Impact: Replacing stolen bicycle parts can be costly, with high-end parts ranging from hundreds to over a thousand dollars.
• Emotional Toll: The devastation and loss of peace of mind when a bike is stolen.

Pinhead Locks Solutions

• Comprehensive Protection: Pinhead Locks offers systems to secure all parts of a bike, including wheels, seats, and handlebars.
• Tracking Technology: Incorporates Apple AirTag and Samsung tags for tracking stolen bikes.
• One-Key System: A single key can secure all parts of a bike, simplifying security.

Market and Business Insights

• Global Presence: Pinhead Locks is sold in North America, Europe, and soon in Australia.
• Customer Loyalty: Pinhead Locks has built a loyal customer base over 25 years.
• Support for Local Bike Shops: Advocates for supporting local bike shops for their essential services and expertise.

Pricing and Accessibility

• Cost of Security Kits: The ultimate kit, which includes locks for all bike parts, costs about $150 USD. The tracking security box is an additional $49.99 USD.
• Value Proposition: Emphasizes the cost-effectiveness of investing in bike security compared to the cost and hassle of replacing stolen parts.

Final Thoughts and Resources

• Education and Support: Encourages consumers to educate themselves about bike security through Pinhead’s resources.
• Contact and Purchase Information:
• Local bike shops and Pinhead Locks’ website: www.pinheadlocks.com
• Dr. Lycka’s Website: For more resources on living a fantastic life, visit www.drallenlycka.com

Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/pinheadlocks/

https://www.facebook.com/officialpinheadlocks/