In this episode of Tola Talks, I reflect on the legacy of First Lady Rosalynn Carter (RIP) and the importance of caregiving, plus the historical significance of Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address (read by me). I also share some practical tips – and pet peeves – about proper gym etiquette, emphasizing respect and consideration for others in shared spaces.
Watch now and discover: → There are only four kinds of people in the world: caregivers. → Caregiving is a tough job, but it’s essential work. → Abraham Lincoln faced multiple failures before becoming president. → The Gettysburg Address is a pivotal moment in American history. → Proper gym etiquette enhances the experience for everyone, so treat it like an operating room, while your daily fitness program is important for overall well-being…so just do it!
In this episode, Tola Talks about the theme of ‘more is bad’ versus ‘less is good’ when it come to losing weight, focusing on good health, nutrition, and lifestyle choices. The show also includes a Birthday shout-out to Danny DeVito while reflecting on the media’s influence through cinema, plus a review of the new Glen Powell film, Running Man. When it comes to dieting and weight loss, Rich debunks the 12 common myths about healthy eating, with practical tips for maintaining a balanced diet. Most importantly, Tola emphasizes the importance of ‘eating less’ while still enjoying your favorite foods, with insights on how to approach healthy eating without feeling deprived.
Watch now and discover: → You can enjoy your favorite foods while eating less. → Eating less is key to managing weight effectively. → It’s okay to feel hungry; it means you’re burning calories. → Healthy eating doesn’t have to be expensive, and can be simple and straightforward. → Debunking myths about gluten-free and vegetarian diets.
As we celebrate Veterans Day, today is the time to honor those who have served in the United States military, dead and alive. It’s also an opportunity to reflect on how each of us can give back to our communities. In this episode of Tola Talks, it’s all about positivity while keeping life simple and giving back to society. I also shares key aspects of my personal development book, How to Drink from the Fountain of Youth: 30 Steps to Everlasting Youth, as well as historical insights and practical steps to inspire everyone to make a positive impact in their lives. We also explore how embracing simplicity and gratitude can transform our lives and the lives of others.
As always, keep it simple and get your workout in! Peace – R
On today’s 200th episode of Tola Talks, we share the Top 10 Lessons Learned from Women’s Volleyball, emphasizing the importance of positivity, teamwork, focus, and resilience. We also discuss the highlights of how these principles can be applied not only in sports but also in everyday life, encouraging everyone to celebrate the small victories in life and to always learn from your defeats – all the while maintaining a commitment to good sportsmanship. We also dive into the 1987 romantic drama, Dirty Dancing, one of my favorites, starring the late (and great) Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey.
In this episode of Tola Talks, we discuss the theme of ‘enough’ in various contexts, including media confidence, the US government shutdown, the Gaza war, plus societal standards. We also highlight the recent Gallup poll titled, “Media Trust Falls Again”, that details how trust and confidence in mass media has declined to a low of 28% (down from 72% in the late 1970’s).
And of course there’s some inspiring talk about the commitment to fitness (and of course my favorite, weightlifting), personal motivation, and the importance of adhering to a daily fitness program. I also reflect on personal heroes like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Joe Dodd, including cool movie nostalgia (Pumping Iron, The Italian Job, The Breakfast Club) as well as encouraging everyone to maintain a positive outlook and to stay active.
Finally, there’s some fun talk about me binging on the 1997 series, Law and Order, plus the 12 Hollywood myths that are totally fake. Check it out and Subscribe to watch us LIVE! Peace – R
In this episode of Tola Talks, we discuss the challenges and opportunities faced by baby boomers, emphasizing the importance of purpose in life. We also explore health concerns, particularly strokes, and share the Top 10 preventive measures. There’s also a quick movie review of the 1997 thriller ‘Con Air’ starring Nicholas Cage, plus a shout-out celebration of Taylor Swift’s new 12th studio album, The Life of a Showgirl, highlighting the impact her of music across generations – especially the Elementary School kids I taught.
Thanks for tuning in, and as always, get your workout in! Peace – R
Hey everyone, hope your 2024 is off to a great start!
As for small victories along the way, on behalf of the very talented cast and crew of my short film, Zen Diaries: The Lockdown, we’re honored to receive a 4-Star Review from Short Films Matter. Here’s what they say:
* * * * A drama that delves into the transformative power of confronting personal weaknesses.
SYNOPSIS: Ten years after his wife was killed in a drive-by shooting gone bad, former hot-shot attorney turned yoga master, Bobby D’Angelo, is dealing with another shooter in his life. This time causing a police lockdown of his Los Angeles studio. A zenful place “where self-doubt goes to die”, but it’s also where tempers start to flare between students and strangers as Bobby vows to ‘protect his family’ while trying hard to inspire and not insult them with his tough love words of wisdom.
REVIEW: Rich Tola’s short sequel to his 2009 feature film ‘Boulevard Zen’ takes center stage during a police lockdown of his yoga studio, prompted by an external situation, yet it skillfully weaves a narrative focused on internal conflicts. The crux of the story revolves around an outsider forced to confront his realities, under the candid guidance of the brutally honest Bobby D’Angelo, portrayed by Tola himself. The ensemble cast navigates the anxieties stemming from external conflict, with A.P. Moses delivering a compelling performance as Mr. Sloan, a character grappling with weightissues and self-esteem.
Tola’s film delves deep into the theme of personal transformation, emphasizing the need to confront and overcome our weaknesses. The societal implications of these individual struggles add depth to the narrative, creating a thought-provoking ensemble piece that resonates with universal themes. The well-acted cast brings authenticity to their roles, complemented by Salvadore Sclafani’s cinematography, which adds visual richness to the storytelling. The sequel stands out as a commendable film, offering a compelling exploration of self-discovery and the potential for positive change within individuals and society at large.
FILM: 20-minute dramedy (completed from start-to-finish in less than 90 days for $2,000) starring Rich Tola, Jonny Haug, Kayla Moore, Romi Valenti, Anita Davenport, Jennifer Cheung, and A.P. Moses.
While driving home from the park today, I was listening to a few economists talk about the current University of Michigan survey measuring consumer sentiment and economic conditions. Basically, it tells us how Americans feel about the economy both today and tomorrow, or more specifically, one year from now.
I’m sure this comes as no surprise, but the overall feelings were bad.
As bad as they were in the 1970’s no less, when inflation was at 13%, unemployment was at 10%, and you had to wait an hour at the pumps to fill up your tank with gas. No kidding, and I know it well because I grew up in the 70’s and specifically remember really long lines in a station wagon with no air conditioning. Albeit, today those inflation and unemployment numbers are much better, to say the least, as mortgage rates just inched below 7% – a good sign for both consumers and the housing market.
The thing is, back when times were much tougher for families and the economy was in a much deeper hole, pervasive feelings of doom and gloom were never rampant like they are today. At least it seems that way when everywhere you turn there’s suffering, death and destruction, not to mention consistent talk about an unavoidable recession (which I disagree). In a viral world with instant connectivity, spreading anything – including bad feelings – is as easy as getting AI to write you a paper. The polar opposite of the groovy, non-viral 70’s. Plus, with Led Zeppelin on the radio and Disco on the rise, life was always about working hard, staying hopeful, living free, and most importantly, living in the moment.
And since every one of us is dealing with our own adversity du jour – mine includes three herniated discs that have annihilated my yoga practice – you gotta stay positive and know that things will get better. And believe that collectively, we can change this sentiment from bad to good.
And we will.
The funny thing is, when I grew tired of listening to those chatty economists talk about our nation’s lousy survey scores, I turned the radio dial a few clicks to the left and what do you think comes on? I Want Your Love, by Chic circa 1978. Talk about a fun and happy and positive song that compels you to sing along forever! I was 15 when that Disco classic came out, and had just started taking lessons at the nearby Arthur Murray Dance Studio..with every other kid in the neighborhood.
So change your negative thoughts everyone, and help me change the consumer sentiment. No doubt I believe change is coming – as it did with the go-go 80’s right after John Travolta lit up the floor in that iconic gem, Saturday Night Fever (1979). Speaking of lighting up the floor, with two measly weeks to go before we leave this rather “bad” 2023 behind us, take heed from yours truly – and get your workout in. Dancing included!
Have an amazing Holiday and even happier New Year! Peace – R
On behalf of the very talented cast and crew of my short film, Skateboard Bandits, we’re excited to receive a 3-Star Review from the industry’s leading review platform, Short Films Matter. Here’s what they say:
* * * A laid-back thriller that delves into a father and daughter’s pursuit of revenge.
SYNOPSIS: A character-driven thriller about a band of skateboarders who conspire to take revenge into their own hands – the second time around – and risk life and limb to rob a bank.
REVIEW: Vengeance, grief, and the unbreakable bond between a daughter and her charismatic widower father take center stage in Rich Tola’s low-budget thriller. With Rich Tola himself leading the cast alongside Anna Christensen and an ensemble of supporting actors, this film takes viewers on a thrilling ride through the gritty streets of Los Angeles. The narrative centers around the preparation for a bank heist. One of the standout elements of this narrative is the inclusion of skateboarding, which adds a cool and edgy vibe to the story. The skateboarding sequences are well-executed and bring an exciting energy to the film. It’s a refreshing addition that sets this movie apart from others in the genre.
While the acting prowess of Rich Tola and Anna Christensen shines through, the supporting cast falls slightly short in comparison. However, their performances don’t detract from the overall enjoyment of the film. Technically, the film is crafted to a respectable standard, considering the limited budget. Although it lacks a cinematic quality, this can be forgiven, as the engaging storyline and well-choreographed sequences make up for it. The short film manages to entertain and keep viewers on the edge of their seats throughout.
However, it must be noted that the ending leaves us wanting more, as the narrative build-up to the bank robbery delivers an anti-climax. Nevertheless, Rich Tola’s low-budget thriller delivers an entertaining experience. With its engaging storyline, impressive skateboarding sequences, and solid performances, it is a film that showcases the director’s creativity and resourcefulness. While it may lack the polish of big-budget productions, it more than makes up for it with its raw energy and bohemia.
FILM: 12-minute drama (completed from start-to-finish in 90 days for $1000) starring Rich Tola, Anna Christensen, Jonny Haug, Jasmine Sim, Anthony Lazcano, Ben Thomas and Anthony Rajanayagam.
Thanks for watching everyone..and get your workout in ! Peace – R
And just like the real life United States Postal Service creed, “Neither rain, nor snow, nor sleet, nor hail shall keep the postman from their appointed rounds“, simply apply this to your daily fitness program and get your workout in…every single day. Like I’ve been doing since the 1970’s.
Now check this out: we’re 2 days shy of halfway through 2023, which means you could have benefited from 180 workouts by now, like me and all the other post-people out there.
Are you in? Do you WANT to be in? Because ANYONE can…just Be Like The Postman. Enjoy the movie everyone, and I’ll see you at the Fountain!
