In this week’s 5 Random Questions, Danny chats with Susan Barry, host of the award-winning Top Floor podcast and fonder of Hive Marketing. They discuss everything from why pineapple belongs on pizza, beans that can knit socks, the perfect day, and more.

Answering the questions this week: Susan Barry

Susan Barry is known for connecting ideas across hotel investment, operations, and marketing. As host of the award-winning Top Floor podcast, named a Top 10 Hospitality Podcast by the International Hospitality Institute in 2025, Susan sparks curiosity and conversation by interviewing leaders who are shaping the future of the industry. Her career spans B2B marketing, hotel ownership and management, and start-ups ranging from aviation data to spa products, giving her a unique vantage point on the business of hospitality. Susan founded Hive Marketing, a firm specializing in B2B demand generation for the hospitality industry. In addition to her advisory and thought leadership work, she serves on the steering committee of Female Founders in Hospitality and is a partner at Cayuga Hospitality Consultants. Susan is known for her sharp insights, humor, and ability to push conversations beyond the expected. She lives in Atlanta with her artist husband, Sean.

Susan's Website

@topfloorpod on Instagram

Further reading for this episode

• Susan Barry | LinkedIn
• Taking White Advice as a Black Person, Killer Kimonos, and More with Keisha "TK" Dutes - 5 Random Questions
• We Are the Creators of Hate - Is It Too Late to Undo Who We Have Become? | Danny Brown
• Pizza restaurant | Grant Central Pizza | Atlanta
• Virgin Movie Experiences, Tech Trip Ups, and More with Colin Gray - 5 Random Questions
• The Light Phone
• Focus Friend Productivity App by Hank Green
• Don Shindle has been appointed General Manager at The Westin Verasa in Napa
• Tripman | Your Favourite Driver (@thetripman_)

Products I Use for 5 Random Questions

Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link.

My equipment:

1. RODE NT1-A large diaphragm condenser mic
2. Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio
3. Sony MDR-7506 Studio Monitor Headphones
4. Elgato Wave Mic Arm Low Profile

Recommended resources:

1. Captivate.fm podcast hosting,

In this week’s 5 Random Questions, Danny chats with Emily Williams, a Webby, Signal and Anthem award-winning podcast host, and former Executive Director of the Arcus Center for Social Justice Leadership. They discuss everything from a life-changing loss, cats owning dogs, superhero shenanigans, and more.

Answering the questions this week: Emily Williams

Emily Williams (she/her) is a Webby, Signal and Anthem award-winning podcast host, and former Executive Director of the Arcus Center for Social Justice Leadership. A gender studies scholar and global advocate for social justice, Emily has worked with communities in more than 20 countries and co-founded the Social Justice Initiative at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Her work includes contributing to a global treaty adopted by the United Nations and decades of leadership in advancing equity, gender justice, and human rights in the US and beyond.

Emily's Website

@heyemilyraquel on Instagram

Emily's Facebook page

Further reading for this episode

• Beyond Voting Podcast
• Emily R. Williams | LinkedIn

Become a Patron!

Thanks to the wonderful Question Starter members on Patreon for supporting the show! As a member, you receive producer credits for the show, bonus content, early ad-free access, and more - join today!

Products I Use for 5 Random Questions

Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link.

My equipment:

1. RODE NT1-A large diaphragm condenser mic
2. Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio
3. Sony MDR-7506 Studio Monitor Headphones
4. Elgato Wave Mic Arm Low Profile

Recommended resources:

1. Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization
2. Kit email marketing
3. Boomcaster remote recording and live streaming
4. Hindenburg Pro recording and editing
5. Auphonic AI assistant for...

In this week’s 5 Random Questions, Danny chats with Rob Lynch, author of "Voudon Caliber". They discuss everything from wealth creating toxic people, creativity, why he'd want a melon for a head, and more.

Answering the questions this week: Rob Lynch

I've always been a jack of all trades, but with the common thread of the written word connecting everything together. I've written music reviews, screenplays, short stories, movie reviews, sporting articles and just released my first full length novel Voudon Caliber available on Amazon. With the deaths of many important family members in the last few years, and the complicated presence of addiction in my family, my whole way of thinking and negotiating life has been turned on its head, and I work to understand life a little more day to day. Life is about gratitude and service, and finding out what that looks like to you.

@Official_voudoncaliber on Instagram

Further reading for this episode

• Voudon Caliber, by Rob Lynch
• Little Face | Dick Tracy Wiki | Fandom
• So I Married an Axe Murderer (1993) - IMDb
• Beetlejuice Waiting Room Scene
• DNA Genetic Testing For Health, Ancestry And More - 23andMe

Become a Patron!

Thanks to the wonderful Question Starter members on Patreon for supporting the show! As a member, you receive producer credits for the show, bonus content, early ad-free access, and more - join today!

Products I Use for 5 Random Questions

Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link.

My equipment:

1. RODE NT1-A large diaphragm condenser mic
2. Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio
3. Sony MDR-7506 Studio Monitor Headphones
4. Elgato Wave Mic Arm Low Profile

Recommended resources:

1. Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization
2. Kit email marketing
3. Boomcaster remote recording and live streaming
4. Hindenburg Pro

2025 was a banner year for 5 Random Questions, and so I wanted to pause and say thank you.

In 2025, the show won Best Interview Podcast at the Ear Worthy Podcast Awards, was signed to the Mercury Podcast Network, featured by Apple Podcasts, made the Top 20 Podcasts on Apple, and was even written about in the local press. Every one of those moments felt a little surreal - and all of them happened because people like you kept showing up and sharing the show.

One number that was lovely to see: in 2025, 5 Random Questions welcomed over 5,000 new listeners. Not downloads - actual people who discovered the show, stuck around, and made it part of their routine.

So thank you to you, the listeners, who make the show part of your week, and thank you to the guests who said yes, trusted the format, and leaned into the unexpected. You’re the reason this show works.

Looking ahead to 2026, I’m excited about what’s next, including the very real possibility of live shows and more interactive ways to bring 5 Random Questions even closer to the audience.

Grateful for the year behind - energized for what’s ahead.

Here’s to an amazing 2026.

Further reading for this episode

• Announcing The 2025 Ear Worthy Podcast Awards
• Mercury Podcast Network

Become a Patron!

Thanks to the wonderful Question Starter members on Patreon for supporting the show! As a member, you receive producer credits for the show, bonus content, early ad-free access, and more - join today!

Products I Use for 5 Random Questions

Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link.

My equipment:

1. RODE NT1-A large diaphragm condenser mic
2. Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio
3. Sony MDR-7506 Studio Monitor Headphones
4. Elgato Wave Mic Arm Low Profile

Recommended resources:

1. Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization
2. Kit email marketing
3. Boomcaster remote recording and live streaming
4. Hindenburg Pro recording and editing

Creative conversations rarely go in a straight line.

This week on 5 Random Questions, I chat with independent audio producer and educator Keisha “TK” Dutes. We dive into killer kimonos, advice given with good intentions that can still sting, dream homes, and more.

Funny, strange, and real - just how the best conversations happen. Five unexpected questions, unfiltered answers, no scripts.

If this is your first time here, welcome - this is exactly what the show sounds like.

Answering the questions this week: Keisha "TK" Dutes

About TK Dutes Keisha "TK" Dutes (she/her) is an independent audio producer, educator, host, and reporter with nearly two decades in radio and podcasting. Her production credits include Buzzfeed’s Thirst Aid Kit, Function with Anil Dash, Good Words with Kirk Franklin, and Open World. She has taught at Spotify, PRX Podcast Garage, and BRIC Arts Media, and currently serves on the board of the Association of Independents in Radio (AIR). Through her company Philo’s Future Media, TK helps producers bring their ideas to life. Learn more at tastykeish.com.

Keisha "TK" 's Website

@tastykeish on Instagram

@tastykeish on X

Further reading for this episode

• Talking With My Husband About His Recent Diagnosis - Mental Health and Us
• City of Chicago :: Millennium Park
• The Secret Life of TK Dutes - Podcast - Apple Podcasts
• The Real Live Show | Wonderwheel Recordings
• Visual Art — Keisha TK Dutes
• AIR is a Global Community of Independent Audio Producers
• BRIC Arts Media
• PRX Podcast Garage
• Good Words with Kirk Franklin | Podcast on Spotify
• Function with Anil Dash | Podcast on Spotify
• Thirst Aid Kit - Podcast - Apple Podcasts

Become a Patron!

Thanks to the wonderful Question Starter members on Patreon for supporting the show! As a member, you receive producer credits for the show, bonus content, early ad-free access, and more - join today!

Products I Use for 5 Random Questions

Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link.

My equipment:

1. RODE NT1-A large diaphragm condenser mic
2. Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio
3. Sony MDR-7506 Studio Monitor

On this week's 5 Random Questions, I chat with Deb Brown, author of "From Possibilities to Reality: Save Your Small Town with these Uniquely Do-able Ideas, Projects, and Success Stories". Answers include how she ended up drinking tequila next to Oliver Stone at 3.00am, the secret (and proper) way to drink tequila, small town mindsets, and more.

Answering the questions this week: Deb Brown

Deb Brown is a dynamic small-town advocate and community development expert with extensive experience empowering rural communities. Deb is the author of "From Possibilities to Reality: Save Your Small Town with these Uniquely Do-able Ideas, Projects, and Success Stories," a comprehensive workbook filled with practical strategies and real-world examples for small-town revitalization

Deb's Website

Deb's Facebook page

@Debworks on X

Further reading for this episode

• Building Possibility | Deb Brown - Small Towns & Rural Challenges Expert
• SaveYour.Town – Practical steps to shape a better future for your community, small town, rural or local neighborhood
• Drive by kindness 💗✨(Tiktok Compilation) PART-2 - YouTube
• Russell Westbrook's Wholesome Moment With Reporter - YouTube
• Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey | Get ready to have the most amazing time at The Greatest Show On Earth®!

Become a Patron!

Thanks to the wonderful Question Starter members on Patreon for supporting the show! As a member, you receive producer credits for the show, bonus content, early ad-free access, and more - join today!

Products I Use for 5 Random Questions

Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link.

My equipment:

1. RODE NT1-A large diaphragm condenser mic
2. Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio
3. Sony MDR-7506 Studio Monitor Headphones
4. Elgato Wave Mic Arm Low Profile

Recommended resources:

1. Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization
2. Kit email marketing
3. Boomcaster remote recording and live streaming

This season of 5 Random Questions has been a rollercoaster of creativity and fun, and I can't thank you all enough for being part of it.

The show took home the prestigious Best Interview Podcast award at the 2025 Ear Worthy Podcast Awards, and that recognition is all thanks to you, the amazing listeners.

With 700 new curious minds joining our community this season, it feels like the chaos just keeps expanding, and I'm so excited for what’s to come.

The launch of the 5 Random Questions Patreon has been a game-changer, offering fans exclusive content, a chance to influence future episodes in a big way, and much much more.

I'm truly grateful to each guest who brought their unique stories and humour to the mic, making this season unforgettable.

Season 5 is just around the corner, packed with exciting guests, themes, and maybe even video episodes that you won't want to miss.

Become a Patron!

Thanks to the wonderful Question Starter members on Patreon for supporting the show! As a member, you receive producer credits for the show, bonus content, early ad-free access, and more - join today!

Products I Use for 5 Random Questions

Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link.

My equipment:

1. RODE NT1-A large diaphragm condenser mic
2. Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio
3. Sony MDR-7506 Studio Monitor Headphones
4. Elgato Wave Mic Arm Low Profile

Recommended resources:

1. Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization
2. Kit email marketing
3. Boomcaster remote recording and live streaming
4. Hindenburg Pro recording and editing
5. Auphonic AI assistant for audio post production

5 Random Questions is an entertainment podcast brought to you by Danny Brown.

If you enjoy the show, get the full experience with The 5RQ Companion, where I talk about the question that stayed with me, the one thing you didn't hear, and a question for you, the listener.

Please let

On this week's 5 Random Questions, I chat with Ana Xavier, founder of The Podcast Space. Answers include stereotypes and why they need busting, candy from the past and present, making people smile by just being there, and more.

Answering the questions this week: Ana Xavier

Ana Xavier empowers podcasters to discover their full potential with strategic content that drives business growth, builds trust with ideal audiences online, and creates endless opportunities. As the founder of The Podcast Space, she has coached impact-driven women, minorities, and multilingual businesses to 2x listener engagement, secure sponsorships, and position themselves as industry leaders. Her practical approach and deep expertise, honed over 10+ years in podcasting, radio, and digital marketing across Portugal, London, and the U.S., make her a sought-after coach and consultant. In 2023, Ana’s commitment to advancing diverse voices earned her the American Marketing Association Maverick Award (DFW Chapter). A frequent speaker and collaborator with global organizations, Ana delivers actionable insights to help podcasters turn their shows into powerful tools for influence and success.

Ana's Website

@thepodcastspace on Instagram

Ana on YouTube

Further reading for this episode

• The Podcast Space Podcast
• Language Alchemy Podcast
• Blackpool Rock – The Candy Bar
• Our Online range of Lion Chocolates | Nestlé Family ME
• Unleashing Joy: The Iconic Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwich! - YouTube
• Mathematics Standards | Common Core State Standards Initiative
• Virgin Movie Experiences, Tech Trip Ups, and More with Colin Gray - 5 Random Questions
• Global Day of Unplugging
• LONDON FIELDS (2025) All You MUST Know Before You Go (w/ Reviews)

Become a Patron!

Thanks to the wonderful Question Starter members on Patreon for supporting the show! As a member, you receive producer credits for the show, bonus content, early ad-free access, and more - join today!

Products I Use for 5 Random Questions

Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link.

My equipment:

1. RODE NT1-A large diaphragm condenser mic
2. Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio
3. Sony MDR-7506 Studio Monitor Headphones