Les O'Dell

It’s been a busy few weeks with lots of exciting news, including:

— I am co-author of a brand new humor column launching in The Southern Illinoisan newspaper on Sunday, April 25. “He Said, She Said” will be a weekly look at life from the unique perspectives of men and women. The first column will feature my take on shopping. Martha Peebles, a delightful humor writer from Willisville, Ill. will counter the next week, sharing her theory as to how men “just don’t get it” when it comes to shopping.  Martha and I will be alternating Sundays in The Southern.

–Speaking of partnerships with Martha, we’ll be guests on Dee James’ “Just Say It” radio show, Tuesday, May 4 on WINI AM 1420. We’ll be sharing about “He Said, She Said” and about life in general. Catch us beginning at 1 p.m.

–My work has appeared frequently in The Southern during the past week. “Going to the Dogs” is a feature about a Carbondale woman who not only bakes and sells dog treats, but who has also just published a cookbook for dogs. In anticipation of the upcoming season of American Cancer Society Relay for Life events, I was the primary author of a special section about the relays, caregivers and survivors.

–The new issue of Southern Illinois Magazine features a number of articles I wrote including the cover story, “Follow the Signs” (about destinations along the region’s main thoroughfares, an article on the growing tour bus and limo industry and a small piece on river ferries in the area.

–Certified Financial Planner Jeff Rose this week introduced some posts I’m writing for his popular blog, Good Financial Cents. I’ll be sharing my experiences as a student in Financial Peace University, a 13-week program offered by author and radio host Dave Ramsey.

–Finally, Jeff also announced that we are collaborating on a new book project. It’s a personal finance work with Jeff’s unique twist. We’re putting the final touches on the introduction and first chapter. While we can’t release details yet, I can say it is a very interesting project that I am very excited about. Watch for more information!