Q&A with the Author

If you mean, what was I trying to accomplish, then I would say the book was written with several goals in mind. The first was to be entertaining and funny. I’ve found most people take themselves too seriously and I attempted to “strike a nerve” in as many people as possible by giving them the opportunity to laugh at themselves through Bob, the main character. The second goal was to give women an insight into how men process their thoughts. The third goal was to provide both sexes some tools to incorporate change into their lives, should they be open to do so. If not, the lessons the main character learns adds to the entertainment process. If you mean “What in the Hell was I thinking?” in a derogatory way, the interview is over. What was your name again? Just bleep that part out will ya?

Of course. The concept of having a “Committee” in one’s head could lead people into thinking the main character is schizophrenic. What would you say to that statement?

Most people will admit to an inner voice that guides them. If we take an honest look at our own inner voice, we will admit it is influenced by many different factors. Some will admit to a “good voice” that leads them down the right path, while having a “bad voice” that leads them astray. The inner voices inside the main character’s head are his emotions and belief systems. They are all Bob, just different parts of his make-up. When we feel guilty or afraid, our inner voice may guide us in a different way than when we are full of ourselves or feeling frisky. Ego and Sex may guide us down totally different paths. It’s about which one is most influential at a given time on a specific subject. You may hear only one recognizable voice, but trust me there are different parts of the mind from which answers come. Now those who imbibe will admit that under the influence, Fear and Guilt are usually the first to succumb to the affects of alcohol, as their behavior may attest to. If you’ve ever said or done something you wouldn’t normally do sober, you’ll agree. I would suggest that if your own “Committee” consists of dozens of members, professional help is called for. As soon as you put my book down, get real help.

According to the recent reviews, you seem to have accomplished all three of your goals. What have you found to be the most surprising comment you have received?

I have been amazed by the responses from women readers. Men feel we are simple creatures and easy to understand. I believe women are looking for a more complex side to the men in their lives and resist believing there isn’t one. They think we're good at hiding that side of us that should, but doesn't exist. Women who read my book claim they have a better understanding of how men operate, and why. Thankfully they didn’t shoot the messenger. Can we pause for a minute? Speaking of shooting the messenger, I noticed that’s a very short skirt you have on. Would you mind adjusting it a little? Yes, that’s better…I like it but it was just too distracting while I’m trying to come up with serious answers that will make sense. Bleep this part out too, Ok? Thanks.

One of the reviewers, a female, suggested your book should become a standard gift for every bridal shower. How do feel about that?

Of course I’m all for it. I think the most important part of the book that everyone can learn from, and use in both their personal and professionals lives, is to understand the concept of the four personality types. I can honestly say that once I mastered this concept, it saved my marriage and is something I use daily in all aspects of my life. Especially young people getting ready to walk down the aisle can benefit from understanding themselves and their new partner better. I wish I had come up with that concept on my own, but I didn’t, it was stolen from someone else. Oh damn, I shouldn’t say that…bleep that out too.

Many people have said that Sex was their favorite Committee member. Was he yours, and do men really think about sex every six seconds?

I'll answer the second part first. Yes, every six seconds, but after the age of forty, it changes to every ten seconds. Sex represents the adventurous side of Bob, and he is one of the most honest members of the Committee. He has only one job and that is to think about, plan for, and initiate sex. As with most men, Sex can be an influential part of the committee. Of course if Sex becomes too powerful, it can create havoc, as some of our politicians would attest to. I would venture to say that because our views on sex, and our sex drive, remain very private matters, having them “exposed” as The Committee does can result in people wishing they also could be that honest. Although if you ever eavesdrop on a woman’s “toy” party, they are that honest. I had a lot of fun creating the voice of Sex, and yes he was one of my favorites. I must admit that the voice of Sex made me nervous when those who know me well first read my book. Remember its fiction!

Bob, the main character, begins a process of change, reluctantly I might add, in order to save his marriage. Where did those lessons come from?

Over the years I have spent thousands of dollars doing personal development work to incorporate positive change in my own life. The ideas to help Bob came from real life experiences, my own and others. Hopefully, I learned some of those things a little easier than Bob did. You’ll have to ask my wife Stacy about that, but only when she’s in a good mood. Not that she’s moody mind you. I didn’t say that. Can you turn that damn recorder off? Just write this stuff down.

While there are similarities between the main character Bob and myself, the book is fiction and only under a great deal of alcohol will I ever divulge which parts are true. It's not that I drink alot mind you. This is the first glass of wine I've had in a while. Why are you looking at me like that?

I’ve just completed the sequel which was previewed at the end of the first book. Also entitled The Committee: Mid-Life Crisis and Bubble Troubles. A man’s mid-life crisis is a time equally misunderstood by both sexes, and one I had a lot of fun writing. It is in the editing process right now and hopefully will be released later this year. Much depends on when the sales for the first book peaks. You’ll have to ask my publisher about that.

Did you turn that off like I asked? We’re done right? Hell, I don’t know yet. I’m thinking about doing the screenplay for The Committee and might give it a shot. I will get to edit this, won't I?