Southern Gothic Productions Start-Up Reminder of My Humble Beginnings

Now, when I started my One Tree Hill Podcast last May, I didn't have inspirations of changing the world or an industry. I just had things to say and loved technology so much, I used this crazy thing called podcasting as a way to get it out there. I never imagined that less then a year later I would have done and seen the things I have.

As I watch the process of Southern Gothic Productions, as those involved, try to find their feet, it reminds me of my process with the One Tree Hill Podcast. Now, on many levels, the two are like comparing apples and oranges. These people, Hilarie Burton, Kelly Tenney and Nick Gray, are awash with knowledge in the business they are pursuing. I was a wild eyed novice that had to have a towl beside my desk to wipe the sweat from my hands as I recorded my first podcast.

But there is on similarity that drives us all - passion. The willingness to pursue a dream because there is something deep inside that drives us. And the knowledge that if that passion isn't feed the soul would starve.

I find it a bit ironic to be writing this blog and offering words of encouragement to Hilarie Burton and her entourage. I am a just a Tennessee native who finds herself working in a small town in North Carolina. But I am offering it anyway. I kind of feel a kinship to them. Working the day job that pays for a higher pursuit. That is what I do as well. My job pays the bills but this podcast, what i have seen and who I have meet, touches me - makes me see life differently.

I have talked to actors and artists and poets in the last year. I have been inspired by words and by music and I have felt lucky to be on the ride. But it was a ride I started. I wasn't just a hapless passenger. I started on the journey with one foot moving forward and willing the second to follow.

I became brave. I learned to ask and didn't take it personal when those I asked said no. I learned how to research and that anyone can be found if you look hard enough. And I learned the art of name dropping, but doing it because you have built a bond with them, and they are willing to assist you.

Last week I interviewed Andrew McMahon from Jack's Mannequin because I formed friendships and bonds. In two weeks I will interview The Fray - my biggest interview to date - because of building contacts.

Never would I have dreamed when I nervously posted my first podcast on May 20, 2008 that less then a year later I would be interviewing one of the hottest acts right now - The Fray. But I was challenged, told to step up my efforts, and if I have learned anything about myself , it is that I love a good challenge.

So, I challenge all of you at Southern Gothic Productions. Keep pursuing that dream and doing what you want to do. Don't listen to others and keep pace with the course. It will lead you to places you will have never imagined, and look at all of those you are taking along.

Believe me I know about the journey, my bags are still packed and I am still amazed at where it is taking me.

The One Tree Hill Podcast No. 46

An “Artist Alley” segment with Kate York and a review of the 19th episode of season six, “Letting Go,” highlights the 46th edition of the One Tree Hill Podcast. Kate’s song “Harley Sunday” was featured on this week’s episode.

NEXT WEEK: An exclusive interview with Andrew McMahon from JACK’S MANNEQUIN. He talks bout his new album The Glass Passenger and working with Twilight author Stephanie Meyer on the video for his song “The Resolution.”

http://www.onetreehillpodcast.net/2009/03/31/the-one-tree-hill-connection-no-46/

Jack's Mannequin Interview - Recap for April 6

As most have heard, I secured an interview last week with Andrew McMahon from Jack's Mannequin. First off, he is AWESOME!!!!

Second, that interview proves it never hurts to ask and name dropping is KEY. I knew there would be a two week break from One Tree Hill to start the month of April, and I always like to provide fun interviews and content to help everyone get over the break.

On a whim, I sent out a feeler email to see about getting Andrew on the podcast. Well, it went through the channels until it got to Rick Gerhshon from Warner Brother's Records. I had worked with Rick over the summer when I interviewed his new artist Jason Reeves.

I got a call from Rick when I was in Greensboro, N.C. with my women's basketball team. I will never forget. It was a Friday evening and we were having dinner at a player's family's home when he called. At first Rick was telling me the interview may not be possible, until I reminded him we had worked together with Jason over the summer. His whole mood changed and he told me they would make this happen.

Six weeks later, it happened. One of the most iconic bands for One Tree Hill, Jack's Mannequin, will be on my One Tree Hill Podcast April 6. We talked about Andrew's new album "The Glass Passenger," his song from the album "The Resolution," and his connection to Stephanie Meyer who wrote the Twilight series.

The interview is 30 minutes long and I as I interviewed Andrew I didn't really think about the length. I didn't realize how huge it was to get that long with Andrew until a friend of mine in the radio industry put it in perspective for me. He said you rarely get that long with an artist and that was big-time for me.

I don't know if it is big time, but it is cool I am going to be able to offer up this interview to everyone next week. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did doing the interview.

Review of Indie Film "The Cake Eaters"

Earlier in the week, I blogged about the film "The Cake Eaters," which featured new Twilight mega-star Kristen Stewart. The film was kind of lost until Kristen became huge and now it is being released, and I am glad it did.

The Cake Eaters is directed by former teen 80s star Mary Stuart Masterson and it was an amazing freshman effort. The film has interwoven stories of loss, wanting and hope. Two brothers and a father deal with the loss of their mother and a wife. And a young girl named Georgia, played by Kristen Stewart, must deal with the fact that a dibilitating illness while cause her to loose her life before she turns 18.

It sounds depressing, I know. But there is such a sense of hope that permeates throughout the film. Georgia makes you realize that life truly is short and you have to make the most of your life. You have to seize it with both fists and dare anyone to pry it from your hands.

Watch this film. If you had doubts about Kristen Stewart's acting you won't doubt after seeing her in this film.

And as I said in the chat last night, watching this indie film, I had a different perspective for it. As I have seen the slow process of Hilarie Burton's company Southern Gothic Productions in its infancy. I know any film in SGP's hands will be just as poignant and beautiful.

Me Ambitious? No, Can't Be

I had some serious moments of self-discovery this week. I have been called out as being ambitioius. I say, well, I don't think of myself as ambitious, I just go after what I want. A friend of mine told me, hello, that is the definition.

So, maybe I am ambitious. Most of the time I am easy going. Now, there are some things that get me fired up. Some other friends of mine claim I have this list, and if you get on it, you are toast.

But, if I see something I want, or get something in my head, I go after it. You know, I live my life trying to avoid regret. I have seen others wallow in their regrets, and I live my life on the basis that if I don't do something will I regret it. If the answer is yes, then I do it. Life is too short for regrets.

And maybe that mentality makes me a bit agressive in my pursuits. I know I was called out on it today. It can be a tad overwhelming. But it is true. The squeaky wheel gets the oil.

I don't know. I really don't know where my life is leading me. Most days I have a plan and I follow it. But in the last year, my desires, my pursuits, have opened so many doors for me. I was told I have drive and dedication this week - and it is true like I have been saying all along. One word or comment could just be that to someone - words. But to others it could mean so much more.

Even if my current pursuits don't come to fruition I think I will be okay with it, I won't like it, but I will accept it. Because someone noticed what I had to offer. That doesn't happen every day, and you should grab it with both fists when it happens.

Independent Film "The Cake Eaters"

I just saw previews of an independent film called "The Cake Eaters." The movie was made a couple of years ago, but is just now getting a dvd release because it stars Kristen Stewart, who rose to HUGE star status with her turn as Bella Swan in the mega-hit "Twilight."

The preview of the movie intrigued me. I am renting it on iTunes for my trip to Charleston this weekend. I am kind of excited to see it. I will let everyone know what I think of it.

The movie kind of raised my attention because of all the stuff I have been following with Southern Gothic Productions. They are trying to raise funds for their indie film as well, and I truly believe, sometimes the independet route allows for the true art of filmmaking to be shown.

When you don't have a host of people "in the know" telling you what you should and shouldn't do, when you can just produce your vision, I think you show a truer form of your art.

It is kind of like the show I used to watch, Farscape. It was filmed in Australia and I think most of the time people didn't even know what they were doing. But creator Rockne S. O'Bannon and Brian Henson had a vision and they stuck to it, and WOW did they tell an epic story.

And most of all I loved that Farscape had all the SciFi tangents, but in the end, it was a love story about a boy and a girl who find themselves in a place they never dreamed. And their inner conflicts was what kept them apart.

But back on topic, The Cake Eaters. Watching it this weekend.

Civil Twilight's New Album Comes out March 31 - BUY!

I have been waiting on Civil Twilight's debut album "Human" since I interviewed them for the One Tree Hill Podcast last fall. I knew it was a must buy when the guys in the band invited me to see them play a fall festival in Greenville, S.C. last October. They totally rocked it. Completely amazing.

The trio that makes up Civil Twilight is from South Africa. They are currently residing in Nashville, Tenn. which I found kind of strange. But there is a sect of singer/songwriters in Nashville that, if you can believe it, don't play country music. Shocker, I know.

Well, I felt privledged to be invited by the boys to see them play and then chat with them for a while. These guys are very talented. I mean, they are awesome. Did I say they are awesome?

Mark my words, they are going to be HUGE.

Check out their myspace page: www.myspace.com/civiltwilightband

And buy their album "Human" on iTunes or CD March 31.

One Tree Hill Podcast No. 45 - Sons of William Interview

An “Artist Alley” segment with Joe and David Stark from Sons of William highlight the 45th edition of the One Tree Hill Podcast. Sons of William song “Easy to Love” was featured on the 18th episode of season six. Also included in the podcast is a mini-review of 617 and a full review of episode 18 of season six.

Winners of the One Tree Hill Script Giveaway Contest
Jo Murray
Alyssa Malcorps
Keith Indovino

Next Week: An “Artist Alley” segment with Kate York and a review of episode 19 of season six.

http://www.onetreehillpodcast.net/2009/03/24/the-one-tree-hill-connection-no-45/

New Mexico Bound and Things Upcoming

I leave for New Mexico in the morning. My Western Carolina women's basketball team is playing Vanderbilt on Friday. This is it. We lose, the season is over and the three seniors season ends. We win, we make school history, moving to the second round of the NCAA Tournament for the first time ever.

My life is so fractured right now I don't know where I am and where I am going. Well, I know I am leaving for New Mexico in the morning. My fulltime job that pays the bills and my One Tree Hill Podcast drags me in many different directions.

One day I am writing a game story, the next day I am securing an interview with a band or a One Tree Hill actor. I guess you can say I am versatile.

Like next Thursday when I get back from New Mexico. It is back to podcast mode as I am interviewing Andrew McMahon from Jack's Mannequin.

But I have learned something about myself in the last few months. I work better promoting a single entity. Focusing soley on my women's basketball team or locking in on a certain player and promoting her.

I have hopes of one day moving on and finding something that really inspires me. If something inspires me then I latch on to it. I want everyone to know about it and in the end, they do.

No one knew who Western Carolina women's basketball player Brooke Johnson was two years ago before I took the job. Now they do.

I can promote. I am not boasting. Just stating a fact.

And no one better never tell me I can't do something because I will move mountains to prove you wrong.

That is why I like my women's basketball team's odds this weekend. They are a No. 13 seed facing a 4 seed. But don't tell them they are underdogs. They are already champions and they know they are made of win and they believe they can beat Vanderbilt and to them it wouldn't be an upset.

And again, as you all know, I don't back losers. Why start now?

Matthew Caws From Nada Surf on One Tree Hill Podcast No. 44

Matthew Caws from Nada Surf highlights the 44th edition of the One Tree Hill Podcast. Matthew gives exclusive commentary on composing the music for the 17th episode of season six. There is also a clip from Barbara Alyn Woods about the return of Deb and her intense scenes with Paul Johansson as Dan.

NEXT WEEK: An “Artist Alley” segment with Sons of William and a review of the 18th episode of season six.

One Tree Hill Script Giveaway Details
Now what everyone has been waiting for, details on how to win one of three signed copies of the script from the 12th episode of season six penned my Mark Schwahn. The scripts are signed by Chad Michael Murray, Hilarie Burton, James Lafferty, Bethany Joy Galeotti and Sophia Bush and to win, answer the following trivia questions. Send answers to blueaeryn@gmail.com. Correct answers will be placed in a pool of names and three winners will be chosen.

Brooke and Peyton have had a birthday tradition since what age?
What was the name of the book Lucas’ mom, Karen, gave him in the Pilot?
What is Nathan’s middle name?
The first artist to appear on an “Artist Alley” segment on the One Tree Hill Podcast?
Whe was the first One Tree Hill actor to appear on the One Tree Hill Podcast?

http://www.onetreehillpodcast.net/2009/03/17/the-one-tree-hill-connection-no-44/

Hilarie Burton and Austin Nichols as Nick and Nora Charles?

I grew up in a house full of old movies. Both of my parents are old movie buffs. So many of my friends shake their head when I throw out names like Maureen O'Hara, Gene Tiereny, Joseph Cotten,Carol Lombard, Loretta Young, Clark Gable, William Powell and Myrna Loy just to name a few. Wait, William Powell and Myrna Loy. I am sure many of you are shaking your head on these two.

William Powell and Myrna Loy, to me, will always be Nick and Nora Charles from the 30's and into 40s Thin Man movies based on novels by Daschel Hammett. Nick is a former detective who married into money, Nora's money, and drops out of that lifestlye. But a man of leisure with a somewhat sordid past is hard to shake, not to mention his wife, Nora, kind of likes his shady at times past.

And of course Nick likes to drink - ALOT.

With all the remakes as of late, I have always thought a remake of the Thin Man would be awesome. Of course in these PC times I guess Nick couldn't enjoy his "beverages" so much. But the big question is who would play Nick and Nora Charles.

After watching the small vlog Hilarie Burton and Austin Nichols posted today, I am thinking I have found Nick and Nora. Set to some really great ragtime music, the duo had a chemistry that spoke slapstick and quick wit and they didn't even have to say a word.

So, could it be in the future that Miss Hilarie Burton, who is destined to take Wilmington and then the world by storm, and Austin Nichols with that "grin" could possibly play one of the most beloved husband and wife on-screen duos of the heyday of Hollywood.

If it was up to me, the answer would be YES!!!!

But I guess first they have to make that film Pedestrian for Southern Gothic Productions. So hurry up and do that.

Closing the Deal and Setting the Bar Higher and Higher

Life can be linear or a twisting turning road that leads you down paths you would never expect.

I never dreamed two years ago I would be where I am today. I was stuck in a dead-end job with little to no respect for what I did. I was faced with a hard choice and decided, if I didn't leave there, then whatever spirit I had left would leave me forever.

My path was linear until I found a turn in the road. It lead me to where I am now. I found a place that healed me. I found people that respected me, and most importantly, I found peace.

I once never really thought of myself as ambitious. I just got the job done. But life is funny sometimes. You find the advice of one person, even if it is someone you kind of despise in general, can give you a different perspective on life.

The one thing I took away from my dead-end job was a sense of tenacity. Of going after something and keeping after it until I achieve it. Setting a goal and doing anything to see it through.

That aspect of myself is also thanks in part, as well, to my professor in my master's program at the University of Tennessee. Thank you Dr. Buck Jones for instilling in my the belief that you have to close a deal. To finish what you start.

I was scared as hell to start my One Tree Hill Podcast. I mean, I was putting myself out there, though, I was convinced hardly anyone would listen. But then people started listening and I have to admit it is daunting sometimes.

But then it took on a life of its own. It went from a fan-made dalliance to a business. Now I have contacts with so many people it blows me away.

I have another goal now. I can't really talk about it, but it has been in the back of my mind since this fall. It seems like maybe that goal may be coming to fruition as well. But understand this, if it does come to pass, it wasn't because I sat on the sidelines.

My knees still shake sometimes, though I hide it well, when I prepare for an interview. I have actors, actresses and musical artists on my resume now but I always hope and pray I won't screw up or say something stupid.

And I still feel honored that, hopefully, my small voicemail project I did for Hilarie Burton and Kelly Tenney assisted them in their dreams with Southern Gothic Productions.

But I am not satisfied. You can never be satisfied and be successful. I have goals still for my One Tree Hill podcast and for other endeavors I hope to be involved in. And I continue to set the bar higher and higer.

I just need to close the deal.

I Finally Get to Go Home and Hello Hilarie Burton

First off, I only back winners. We know that, right? I found One Tree Hill a little over a year ago, it inspired me, I started the One Tree Hill Podcast and the rest, as they say, is history. Then a few weeks ago I started following the Southern Gothic Productions blog and we all know THEY are winners. Enough said on that.

But now some of you have also heard about my Western Carolina women's basketball team - yes they are winners too. The Lady Catamounts are 2009 Southern Conference Tournament Champions - again WINNERS!!!

Winning takes a lot of work but has its rewards as well. My reward? Well, besides working for winners. I got to go home this weekend. Home, that means to me, where I grew up. Home to my parents house to see my mom, my dad, my sister, my bro-in-law and my niece.

College athletics is a hectic crazy business and you sometimes find yourself working 20 or more days in a row. I hadn't been home in three months and that is saying something since I only live about two hours away.

So, this weekend I am enjoying dinner out with family and friends, lazy Saturday afternoon watching SEC Men's College Basketball Tournament and going shopping for a new outfit for NCAA Tournament next weekend and a trip to Best Buy.

It is like I am living three lives, really. My family life, my life with my job in college athletics, and the life I lead with my One Tree Hill Podcast and the people I know there.

I have a quick story before I close. Amy from One Tree Hill Blog texted me Thursday evening and shared a story with me. She is in Wilmington, N.C. this weekend watching filming and got to meet and get her picture taken with Hilarie Burton.

She then informed me she named dropped me. Amy said "oh, Hilarie "Podcaster Denise" wanted me to say hello to you. At first I called Amy a liar and then told her to shut-up when she told me Hilarie's response but now I guess I believe her. She said Hilarie's eyes lit up and she got all excited and said "please tell Denise I said hello."

That is pretty cool I guess. Thanks Hilarie. You are the best. Can't wait to get you on the One Tree Hill Podcast - now THAT should be fun and interesting. Because as you know, again, I only back winners. And Hilarie, you are made of win.

Sons of William (Band) Great Interview for OTH Podcast

Today I interviewed the band Sons of William. I talked to brothers Joe and David Stark. Before the interview I admit I was unsure how it would go. They were a band I was just introduced to, and though I did my research, I felt a bit out of sorts.

The funny thing is, though, it is these very same interivews that always turn out to be the best. Like my interview with Matthew Caws, from Nada Surf, that will be airing on the One Tree Hill Podcast on March 10. I was unsure how that one would play out as well, but it was awesome.

Joe and David are great guys. Singer/songwriters, the brothers travel with a third band member, Jen. They really love the music and infuse their background of music, from the Southern Louisiana area, into their style.

It was their first time doing a podcast interview and I told them I felt honored to be the first to host them. But I truly believe I won't be the last. Great band and some awesome music.

They are currently touring and I suggest everyone hit up their myspace page or their website, check if they will be your area, and go see them.

And look for the interview on the One Tree Hill Podcast beginning March 24.

Jack's Mannequin Coming to One Tree Hill Podcast

It is all about persistence and patience. And finally it pays off. Next week I will be interviewing Andrew McMahon from Jack's Mannequin. I feel this is a HUGE interview for me. Jack's Mannequin so embodies the essence of One Tree Hill.

It is funny. Just when I think I won't have content to fill a podcast or an open week something comes through.

So, I hope everyone looks forward to the interview with Andrew the first week of April.

I Got Mentioned on ESPN.com Along with My Team

I passed along the story below to espn.com feature writer Graham Hayes. He posted a story on the heroics and saavy coaching by Kellie Harper. And to my surprise, he refrenced me in the article as well.

http://insider.espn.go.com/espn/blog/index?entryID=3966804&name=ncwexperts&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fespn%2fblog%2findex%3fentryID%3d3966804%26name%3dncwexperts

No. 3 seed Western Carolina women's basketball captured the 2009 Southern Conference Tournament crown in triple overtime, longest in SoCon Tournament history, 101-87 against No. 4 seed College of Charleston.

The title looked in question numerous times for Western Carolina, including being down by as much as 15 in the second half, but nothing held more doubt then when the Lady Catamounts were down by two points with 1.8 seconds remaining in the first overtime.

College of Charleston had just made a bucket to take the lead at 76 and WCU was preparing to in-bounds the ball under the basket. Kellie [Jolly] Harper called a quick timeout, set up the play and the team went back on the court. Sophomore Emily Clarke ran the baseline and as she did, Cougar forward Brooke Kotcella followed Clarke with the ball. The only thing is, she didn't see senior WCU guard Lauren Powell slip in front of her, gain her position, and force Kotcella to run into her and Powell drew the charge foul.

It was a play run by Dean Smith years ago, it was also a play ran by Head Coach Pat Summitt, in the very gym Harper won the 2009 SoCon title - McKenzie Arena in Chattanooga, when Harper was a player for Tennessee and the Lady Vols were playing in the SEC Tournament. More notable, it was Harper who was asked to execute the play against Auburn (when her future husband Jon Harper was on the bench as a manager for Auburn). The ref didn't call the foul - but this time, with Harper the coach and Powell the player, the play was orchestrated beautifully.

Powell drained the free throws and sent the game into a second OT. And then in the second OT, it was Powell again drawing a foul against Cougar Jade Huges, with 53 seconds left, and AGAIN hit a pair of free throws to tie the game.

It was just a wealth of stories for this team to win the title. The club was 11-11 and on a three-game losing streak. I put in my notes that a third straight 20-win season was improbable. They would have needed to win out and have two wins in the SoCon Tournament just to get to 20. Well, they reeled off 10-straight wins, knocked off the two top teams Chattanooga and Samford on the road to close out the regular season, and then got the two wins in the tourney and a third for good measure and the title, to sit at 21-11.

Senior Brooke Johnson broke the career record for blocks at the tournament, needing seven to capture the record, she got nine in the tournament and now has 130 in her career - in under 70 game played as a Lady Catamount after transferring her sophomore year, sitting out half a year as sophomore and then only playing 11 games as a junior after suffering a knee injury.

Fellow seniors Powell and Kendra Eaton were the first four-year recruits for Harper and now every memeber on the team, in the last four out of five years, has either made it to the finals or won a conference tournament title.

Witnessing this play out was like watching a perfectly scripted film. It ran the gambit of emotions and there were so many storylines. This is why it is called MARCH MADNESS!!!

Barbara Alyn Woods on New One Tree Hill Podcast

Barbara Alyn Woods, who plays Deb Scott, highlights the 43rd edition of the One Tree Hill Podcast. In this exclusive “Behind the Scenes of One Tree Hill” interview Barbara talks about living in Wilmington, meeting people in the grocery store and playing the role of Deb. And she also mentions Hilarie and her Southern Gothic Productions endeavor.

Also, a comment from Kelly Tenney from Southern Gothic Productions about the fan messages played last week.

And leave your favorite Deb Scott moment in the comment section, of the podcast blog site (link below) for your chance to win a signed photo by Barbara Alyn Woods.

NEXT WEEK: An exclusive “Behind the Scenes of One Tree Hill” interview with Matthew Caws of Nada Surf who composed the music for the 17th episode of season six. And a comment by Barbara Alyn Woods about her explosive scenes with Paul Johansson as Dan Scott.

http://www.onetreehillpodcast.net/2009/03/09/the-one-tree-hill-connection-no-43/

So I Wait

I hate waiting. And what is so funny is so much of my daily life, especially work-releated parts of my life, is about waiting. The worst is basketball game day. We eat pregame four hours before the game, come back and get dressed, and then head to the arena. And then, I wait. And I wait and I wait.

Then after a good hour of waiting, I have to wait agan for the national anthem and then team introductions. By the way, I have probably heard the national anthem about 500 times and counting. Just an FYI.

I don't know, I am the kind of person who wants to get things started. I have this nervous twitch when I am excited or anexious. My leg starts to shake and I am sure those around me believe it is an earthquake.

But I am always moving, my motor is always running. Ideas run through my head 24/7. Whether it is work related or new ideas for my One Tree Hill Podcast, I am always hustling.

Right now I am waiting in the hotel room for tomorrow. My women's basketball team, the Lady Catamounts of Western Carolina, will play in the Southern Conference Tournament Finals. What is on the line? A conference title and a bid to the NCAA Tournament.

On the other side of my life, my podcast life, I am waiting to hear back about four interviews. I check back from time to time and they tell me to be patient. So I am.

And I wait.

The Origin of PD - Or What We Do on Long Road Trips

The origin of PD - aka Podcaster Denise. Or maybe you could just say what we do on basketball road trips when we get bored. But it is still a funny story.

Southern Gothic Productions Connects the Dots

There is an idea, the idea starts slow, then it grows, people find the idea, adopt the idea, make it their own and the idea grows to something more. It becomes and ideal, a dream and then a promise.

Last time I spoke of lyrics and what they can mean to someone. They are so much like words in a novel that create a story. The author creates a world and characters and gives it to the others. Readers of the book take in the story and make it their own. Creating their own world from the author's creation and bringing the characters into their lives.

Today, I heard the company born of an ideal, Southern Gothic Productions, amassed over 500 followers on their blog site - just over a month after launching the site. A blog site that introduced an idea and have been asking others to follow.

But just like lyrics from a song, or pages in a novel, followers of Southern Gothic Productions have taken the ideal of the company and created something more. Most would admit they found the site because of their admiration of Hilarie Burton but have stayed for other reasons.

I have said before I believe this site has grown from a fan base to a community. People have found others on the site live in their same city. Others have bonded over books, music and like-minded ideals.

Myself? I have found an instant friend in Becca and we have already planned a trip together to see The Fray in Georgia this summer. This is someone I had never met before beginning to chat on the SGP blog site.

People come on and talk about their day, their amazment of the new ideals of Southern Gothic Productions, or talk about the blog site's latest blog submission. It truly is amazing.

Southern Gothic Productions is connecting the dots - from the ideas of an author about a script, to the characters in the script, to presenting the script to a young woman who so desperately wants to create quality in the town she has adopted as her own, to passing the script and her ideals to someone she considers a confidante, to deciding to turn a script into a movie, to turning an actor named Austin to a character named Lincoln, to introudcing the process from its infancy to a fanbase that turns into a community, to a community that becomes a family, and then back to a company called Southern Gothic Productions - who are doing things in innovative ways.

And asking everyone to help finish the portrait.

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Have You Ever Heard the Lyrics?

Come Back to Me - Sarah Borges and the Broken Singles

Gifts and flowers lay upon the lid
The pink silk above your face
Tears make a ribbon of diamonds in the dark
My daddy breaks down at the funeral home
Friends and relations make an annoying sound
We sit and wander around the room
Ribbons are folded on the rose bouquet
And I hear a voice that sounds so much like yours

Please, please come back to me
I cry soft to you through the bedroom wall
Oh, please come back to me

Playing in Cleveland on a Wednesday Night
Recovering from the night before
Well, I am broken and crying in the ladies room
The opening band is playing out their song

Please, please come back to me
I cry soft to you through the bedroom wall
Oh, please come back to me

I made a shrine for you on the kitchen wall
With flowers that and surrounded with souvenirs
You were walking through the house last night
I knew it was you from the space in your step

Please, please come back to me
I cry soft to you through the bedroom wall
Oh, please come back to me

Last night while I was sititng in the stands watching basketball, we are playing in our conference tournament this weekend, I finally HEARD the lyrics in the song above. I tend to have a short attention span where new music is concerned. At least twice a month I have a new musical obsession. It is a good thing I have an "artist alley" segment in my One Tree Hill podcast to feed my need.

Well, last week I was introduced to Sarah Borges and the Broken Singles. I even used a clip of their song "Modern Trick" in my One Tree Hill Podcast this week.

But most of the time, and you know it's true, we listen to a song but never really hear it. I did that with the song "Come Back to Me." It is so haunting. The person is torn apart. Death has taken her love from her and she goes through the sureal moments of the funeral and then how daily life almost seems unbearable. It is so powerful.

Music and lyrics, together they can touch you in ways you would never have imagined. And for a few minutes take you somwhere you never believed you could go.

They Call Me "Bulldog" - I am Tenacious

Well, today is the “and more” part of the blog. I love to promote something. Find that special part of someone or something and show it to the world.

Tenacious – I guess that is good word for me. Again I bring out the “unofficial” nickname for myself “bulldog.” I latch on to something and don’t let go.

Outwardly all of you who follow my One Tree Hill podcast have seen how it has grown. Or, I hope it has grown. That is a testament to all of you, by the way. But if I am going to do something – I am going to do it with full force.

And when I tell you I am going to do something, or get something for you, I will move mountains to do it.

Example?

Last year one of my women’s basketball players, who is an amazing student-athlete - successful on and off the court, suffered a devastating knee injury 11 games into the year. It is one of those things where you know it will be a detriment to the team, because she is such an impact player, but also you just feel sick for the player. She was destined for a HUGE year. She tried to come back but had a setback and had to have surgery.

I came to her a few weeks after her surgery and said “you get better and I will get you everything you deserve.” She is very humble, so she slowly dipped her head, smiled and said okay. I told her I didn’t back losers, she was a winner, and everyone will see it.

Now to the present. I sit her with a huge smile on my face because that player has had this amazing season. She is seven blocked shots away from breaking the school record for blocks in a career and leads the team in scoring. Which means she took care of her business on the court and in the classroom – so I could have the chance to fulfill my promise.

She is winding up the season as a candidate for the Lowe’s Senior Class Award (making her one of the top 30 seniors in the nation, an ESPN The Magazine District 3 First Team Academic All-American, an All-Conference selection and was just announced as a finalist for the Jimmy V Comeback of the Year Award.

Yeah, she is special. And it just makes me so happy. To see everything going her way and knowing I had just a small hand in it.

People ask how I got her with my One Tree Hill Podcast. Well, see it is easy for me – it is kind of my job to promote people or things. It was a small endeavor that grew to something that has taken on a life of its own. It is kind of crazy if you sit and think about it – if I had time to think about it.

I feel sometimes like I am living two lives. Working the job in college athletics to pay the bills and doing this podcast to feed my soul.

But how can I complain? I can’t. I won’t. Because I love doing it so much and it has afforded me the chance to meet so many amazing people. And do some great things for others – like collecting fan messages for Hilarie and Kelly at Southern Gothic Productions.

Again people it is the small gestures. Make sure you do one for someone today. You don’t know what it will mean.

Sometimes they say a name can define you. “Podcaster Denise”, “Bulldog”, “promoter”, “insane”. Maybe I am all those things. I’ll answer to any of them because maybe they define me. And I am okay with that.

Hilarie Burton and Kelly Tenney - You Rock

Today I had the full intention of talking about "and more" as the name of my blog states. But a couple of amazing things happened, and I knew I had to talk about that instead.

First, I got something really cool in the mail today. A couple of weeks ago I was joking with one of my One Tree Hill contacts. We were talking about how I got Fox Home Entertainment to send me some copies of of The Secret Life of Bees to give away on my podcast. He said, oh I have never seen that, you should send me one. I said, well I will send you one of if I send you mine as well and you get Hilarie Burton to sign it for me.

Well, today he earned his "superstar" status. Because I got it in the mail today. I think it makes it more special since Hilarie herself gave me my new nickname "Podcaster Denise." LOL Check it out.

It was very sweet of Hilarie to sign it and give it a personal touch. Hilarie, it is another one of those moments were it was just some moment out of your day, but to someone else it means so much more. Thank you.

And then later in the day, I got an amazing email from Kelly Tenney thanking me for me efforts with the voicemail messages projects. He said he was speechless.

I told him I don't back losers and Southern Gothic Productions was made of win.

I also told him if he ever needs assitance with a podcasting project for Southern Gothic Productions I am their girl. After all I am "Podcaster Denise." :)

I'm Amazed - What More Can I Say?

First, the title of this blog is from my favorite My Morning Jacket song "I'm Amazed." Still think it should make an appearance on a One Tree Hill episode. Working on wearing OTH Music Supervisor Lindsay Wolfingto down to find a place for it. :)

So, why am I amazed? Have you ever had one of THOSE days???? Just one of those days that you wonder how anyone could or would take drugs, because you are just on this emotional high.

That is me.

These last two days I got confirmation on four amazing interviews for upcoming One Tree Hill Podcasts. I really don't want to mention which ones, so I don't jinx it. But I can say they are two actors from One Tree Hill and two amazing musical artists.

This is it. This is big, HUGE, tremendous.

I asked Lindsay Wolfington if the musical ones would assure that I was in. She said I already was IN. LOL Don't know about that Lindsay, but it is nice of you to say.

So that is my update. Today, I am amazed.

Oh, and want to add a new musical find for me - The Pat McGee Band. Check them out.

BTW, I have decided on the contest to give away the three signed 612 One Tree Hill scripts. It will be One Tree Hill and One Tree Hill Podcast trivia. So, get those brains working.

Contest will begin March 16.

Podcaster Denise
(had to add that)

How Did I Get Here? How Did I Do it?

I don't know how many emails I have gotten in the last two weeks or so asking me how i got here. Here? Where is here?

Oh, you mean my One Tree Hill Podcast? What? How I got started? How I get the interviews? What?

One word comes to mind. PERSISTENCE!!!!!!!

If you tell me I can't do something then I want to prove to you that I can. If you tell me no, then I wait a few weeks and ask you again. Don't take no for an answer - take it as a maybe.

I look around sometimes and wonder how I got here. Each week collecting interviews and putting together these podcasts. Making fast friendships with people I didn't even know a year ago, and now I can't imagine not talking to them at least once a week.

But I think they saw my passion and how I don't do something I enjoy half-way.

It doesn't hurt to ask. All people can say is no.

I have heard no a lot in the last year. But I keep asking.

And most of time the no turns to yes.

Thanks to everyone who has been with me on this journey so far. From my humble beginnings, reading a script to my first podcast, to my first artist interview with Jarrod Gorbel from The Honorary Title, till now.

I do it for all One Tree Hill fans, I have said that all along. And you will never know what all your support has meant to me.

This week I debuted messages from fans for Hilarie Burton and Kelly Tenney for their company Southern Gothic Productions. It was a lot of work but afterwards I felt a sense of accomplishment. My small gesture brought people together and maybe, just maybe, it helped Hilarie and Kelly to move one step closer to their goal. And that feels pretty good.

New One Tree Hill Podcast Posted - with messages for Hilarie and SGP

WOW, this podcast took a while to put together. I included the messages I compiled for Hilarie Burton and all her crew at Southern Gothic Productions from fans. It took a while to go through all them and edit them, but I think it was worth it.

I really hope everyone enjoys hearing from, well, everyone else. And Hilarie and Kelly and everyone else also has fun listening to the diverse messages.

And also excited to debut my interview with Antwon Tanner who plays skills. :)

http://www.onetreehillpodcast.net/2009/03/01/the-one-tree-hill-connection-no-42/