Jake's Take with Jacob Elyachar

It is a privilege to welcome Sarah Harralson to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.  Sarah is a Nashville-based country music singer-songwriter known for her honest storytelling, emotional lyrics, and memorable melodies. Music Connection Magazine described her music as “honest, bare-boned recordings that are authentic,” a quality that has helped her build a growing international audience. Originally from Knoxville, Tennessee, Harralson began writing songs at the age of 10, inspired by her bluegrass musician grandfather. Growing up surrounded by country, rock ’n’ roll, soul, and pop influences, she ultimately gravitated toward country music for its storytelling tradition. After moving to Nashville to attend Belmont University, she quickly established herself as both a songwriter and a recording artist.In 2015, she signed her first publishing deal with Raindrop Music, founded by Scotty Schultz (drums, Shooter Jennings), who also produced her country EP Watered Down Whiskey. Harralson later signed with Busy at Play Publishing, the company of Johnny Garcia (guitar, Garth Brooks & Trisha Yearwood), after co-writing the song “Radio Static.” Her releases have included the album Whiskey History (2022) and Outside the Lines (2023), on which she served as a producer on several tracks. Her music has charted 26 times on iTunes and earned nominations from the World Songwriting Awards, Josie Awards, and the International Singer-Songwriters Association.In 2024, Harralson signed a multi-year publishing and label deal with Synapse Publishing & Entertainment, a woman-owned company. She is also collaborating with the company on a documentary project titled Women Behind the Lyrics. As a performer, Sarah Harralson has opened for artists including Aaron Tippin and Bucky Covington and has appeared on festival lineups alongside Jason Aldean and Old Dominion. She has performed at notable Nashville venues such as The Bluebird Cafe, The Listening Room Cafe, and The Analog at Hutton Hotel, as well as the Gibson Stage on Today in Nashville on WSMV4. Her music has also reached audiences through film and television placements, including the Hulu series Living for the Dead, the Norwegian television show Norge Bak Fasaden, and a Google Ireland advertising campaign.In 2023, she toured Eastern Europe, performing with an international symphony in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria, with support from the America for Bulgaria Foundation. Beyond recording and touring, Harralson is an active songwriter for other artists and a passionate advocate for music’s healing power. She volunteers with Musicians On Call, performing for hospital patients, and in 2024, she received the Michael Solomon Volunteer Musician Award after playing for more than 19,000 patients since 2015. Harralson is also a producer, voiceover artist, children’s book author (Turtle Tears), and host of the iHeart Media podcast Takin’ a Walk Nashville, which has reached number two on the Apple Music podcast chart. Whether on stage, in the studio, or writing for others, she continues to build a career defined by authenticity, storytelling, and a belief in music's power to heal.  On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Sarah Harralson shared how Takin’ A Walk Nashville stands out in the podcast world and spoke about the upcoming highly anticipated documentary, Women Behind the Music. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a pleasure to welcome author and musician Ben Barbic to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.  At 5-years-old, Ben was already recording his voice and never stopped. Music gave him peace, a way out of chaos, and a place to build himself. It became his sanctuary early in life, and it is today.  The Reggae and hip-hop artist have released over 100 songs with artists and producers worldwide, building a global catalog over more than a decade. His music is a direct reflection of my inner struggles and the force that drives me forward. It comes from pressure, rebuilding, discipline, and forward motion. This isn’t trend music. It’s life music—music for forward motion and for people refusing to stay down.  Ben Barbic’s work has connected him with collaborators across the global reggae, hip-hop, and soul community, including Craigy T (T.O.K.), Dan Konopka (OK Go), Ras Fraser Jr., E.N. Young, and Bobby Hustle, working alongside producers whose credits include artists such as Mariah Carey, Usher, Chris Brown, Vybz Kartel, and Popcaan.  He also mixes and masters music from my studio, Where Dreams Sail Studios, in San Jose, California.Recently, Ben released his memoir, Rise & Climb: Finding Purpose Through Pain. From wild childhood rides on dirt bikes to nights in jail and the silent heartbreak of watching everything he loved burn to the ground, Ben Barbic has lived a life shaped by trauma, trial, and tenacity. Rise and Climb is his raw, unfiltered memoir of a boy who lost it all—twice—and found purpose through pain. Growing up in the shadow of California redwoods and inside the roar of a motorcycle shop, Ben’s early life was defined by adventure and grit. But after losing his home to a wildfire, living in a trailer without running water, and battling panic attacks and loss, Ben turned to the only things that gave him power—music, movement, and resilience.Through cassette tapes, weight benches scorched by fire, and the soul of hip-hop and reggae, Ben began to rebuild. He became a nationally performing recording artist, an endurance athlete, and a proud father, husband, and entrepreneur. Unflinchingly honest, heart-wrenchingly personal, and ultimately triumphant, Rise and Climb is a memoir and self-help book for anyone who has ever faced the fire and wondered if they could survive it. Ben Barbic shares his journey, tools, and motivations to show readers that they can, too.On this edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Ben Barbic spoke about the stories behind his most-streamed songs, such as “Next Level” and “These Dreams.” Ben also chatted about his memoir, Rise & Climb: Finding Purpose Through Pain. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a thrill to welcome back my friend, singer-songwriter Max Bartos, to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.  Max is New York’s resident motherfolker! His folk and Americana music pairs introspective lyricism with anthemic folk-rock energy. As the frontman of Max Bartos and the Misfit Toys, he crafts songs rooted in storytelling and emotional honesty, with a modern acoustic sound shaped by influences such as Mumford & Sons and Noah Kahan.  His latest release, Waiting At The Crossroads (2025) captures a defining chapter in his artistic evolution, expanding his folk and Americana foundation with richer dynamics and a more confident, fully realized identity.  Fresh off a 30-date U.S. tour with The Misfit Toys, he continues to build momentum on the road. This spring, he joined acclaimed singer-songwriter Brendan James as direct support on a 14-date national tour from March 11 through April 1, further cementing his reputation as a compelling and emotionally resonant live act.   Recently signed with Noble Steed Music, Max is steadily carving out his place in the modern folk landscape through intentional songwriting, immersive performances, and a growing catalog that connects deeply with listeners.  On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Max Bartos shared the band’s origin story, the stories behind his most-streamed Spotify songs, and supporting Branden James.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

Planet Comicon Kansas City has wrapped up its 2026 edition!Thousands of pop culture lovers traveled to the Kansas City Convention Center to meet some of their favorite celebrities, creators, and cosplayers. They also attended panels, fawned at artwork, bought merchandise, and created countless memories.   As always, Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar is my take on the 2026 Planet Comicon Kansas City.  Here was my experience: I also want to give a shoutout to the incredible staff members and volunteers who made the weekend memorable!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It’s the second Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar EXCLUSIVE of 2026!  I am so excited and honored to welcome content creator and entrepreneur Nick Uhas back to the podcast!  Reality TV veterans first met the former professional stunt skater on the polarizing Big Brother 15, where he was the second evicted houseguest of the season. After the show, Nick continued creating science content on his YouTube channel (formerly Nickapedia). Nick gained international prominence after appearing on the Australian version of The Today Show, performing three of his most popular experiments.  He continued to showcase his scientific knowledge on NBC’s The Today Show and The Dr. Oz Show.  In 2017, Nick auditioned for America’s Got Talent: Season 12. He had Simon Cowell, Mel B, Howie Mandel, and former judge Heidi Klum inhale balloons filled with sulfur hexafluoride, recruited both Howie and Mel B to make elephant toothpaste on the Pasadena Civic Center stage, and had the longest-reigning judge mix hot water with dry ice. While he made it to Judge Cuts, Simon buzzed his act, and Nick’s time on the long-running NBC talent competition came to an end. He also spent time as the host of the popular Netflix glassblowing competition Blown Away for three seasons (2019, 2021, and 2022).  Throughout the years, Nick Uhas went viral on social media with his collaborations! From his various world-record elephant toothpaste experiments with David Dobrik and giant nitrogen rockets with Alex Mandel and TKOR, to creating deep-voice beatboxing with 80 Fitz and rocket skates with Steve-O, Nick’s content has accumulated over 109 million TikTok likes and 260 million views on YouTube.  For this Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar exclusive, Nick Uhas spoke about starting Uhas Media Company, climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro and Peak Lenin, and previewed a new product that could change the content creation game.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.This episode includes AI-generated content.

It is the first Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Exclusive of 2026! I am very privileged to welcome two-time Emmy-nominated actress Sydney Mikayla to the podcast!  Sydney began her career in 2011, playing roles in various television shows, including Community, Criminal Minds, Fuller House, Hot in Cleveland, Parenthood, and School of Rock.  In 2019, she joined the cast of the long-running ABC soap opera General Hospital (GH) as Trina Robinson. Throughout her time on the show, she shared scenes with Brook Kerr (Dr. Portia Robinson), Maura West (Ava Jerome), William Lipton (Cameron Webber), Avery Kristen Pohl (Esme Prince), and Emmy winners Nicholas Alexander Chavez (Spencer Cassadine) and Eden McCoy (Josslyn Jacks). She exited the soap in 2022, but not before earning two Emmy Nominations for the defunct Daytime Emmy Award category Outstanding Younger Performer in a Drama Series.  In addition to appearing in live-action roles, Sydney Mikayla lent her voice to various animated series. She voiced Maya in Craig of the Creek, Phoebe Rose in Dew Drop Diaries, Andy Smith in Invincible Fight Girl, and Wolf in Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts.  Recently, Sydney Mikayla starred in Sarah T. Schwab’s haunting psychological thriller Crybaby Bridge. The film focuses on Samantha (Mikayla), a quiet and observant 16-year-old who is pregnant, adopted, and increasingly unmoored after her affluent parents relocate the family from Philadelphia to rural Pennsylvania. Intended to protect her from bullying, the move instead deepens her isolation. As long-buried secrets about her adoption surface, what begins as an intimate family drama spirals into psychological suspense where trauma and the supernatural uneasily collide.   On this exclusive episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Sydney Mikayla spoke about her time on General Hospital, her voice-acting experience, and previewed Crybaby Bridge. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a privilege to welcome back my friend, Jeff Azar, aka Demi the Daredevil, to Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.  Hailing from El Paso, Texas, Demi, went from being the drummer to being a singer after the original lead singer, Jovan Ortiz, suddenly passed away. With this loss and his mental health struggles as catalysts, Jeff reimagined the band’s identity as an evocative blend of theatrical alt-pop, haunting soundscapes, and dark, introspective lyrics, creating anthems for other misfits who feel lost, misunderstood, and searching for their unique voice.  With influences ranging from Tim Burton to Edgar Allan Poe, Demi the Daredevil’s music delves into themes of identity, mental illness, existentialism, and the complexities of the human experience. This gives the listener a deep, relatable sense of meaning, creating a safe space and a sense of community for the underdog. Not only does the brand avatar reflect the audience’s identity, but it also offers a signature allure for collaborations and partnerships.  He has garnered over 25 million Spotify streams and over 1,000 pieces of fan art from the “devilins” (his fanbase). Buzzfeed, CBS, Crank That Frank, and Emo Nite have profiled Demi, while several songs, such as “Call in Dead,” have been featured on Trebel’s homepage and Pandora’s “AMP Fresh Cuts” playlist.  On this edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Demi the Daredevil spoke about his 10th anniversary and the stories behind several songs, including “Cursed House” with AViVA.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a privilege to welcome actor Kevin O’Sullivan to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.  Born in Los Angeles and raised in Potomac, Maryland, he splits his time between New York City and LA.  Kevin has enjoyed a long and lucrative career in the entertainment industry.  His first major role was on the iconic Beverly Hills, 90210, where he shared the screen with Jennie Garth, Jason Priestley, Ian Ziering, and Brian Austin Green. He also guest-starred on NBC/Peacock’s Days of Our Lives.   Kevin also starred in Cop Land, where he shared the screen with iconic actors including Sylvester Stallone, Robert De Niro, Harvey Keitel, Janeane Garofalo, Annabella Sciorra, and the late Ray Liotta. He was awarded Best Supporting Actor at the 2024 Egyptian American Film Festival in New York City for his portrayal of Officer John Nelson in The Deal. In addition, he also starred in Tai, Lord Hear Our Prayer, Unveiling Shadow, and the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival-nominated film Nepotism, Baby!    Throughout this decade, Kevin starred in various vertical series. Recently, he starred in In Love with My Mom’s Boyfriend with Robert Palmer Watkins and The Legal Queen with Ben Schreen.  On this edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Kevin O’Sullivan spoke about Cop Land’s upcoming 30th anniversary, working on numerous vertical series, and previewed Choleric. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a pleasure to welcome singer Dawn Derow to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.   A New Yorker by way of Cape Cod, Dawn has been captivating audiences for more than 17 years with extraordinary versatility, moving seamlessly from Puccini to Brandi Carlile to Broadway and jazz. A graduate of the Boston Conservatory, she has performed on world-class stages including Carnegie Hall, Jazz at Lincoln Center, and London’s The Pheasantry, as well as leading New York City venues such as 54 Below, Birdland, The Green Room 42, and the Laurie Beechman Theatre. Beyond New York, she has headlined nationally at the Dakota Jazz Club, Café Centro, Provincetown’s Post Office Café, and appeared with the Cape Cod Symphony Orchestra.   Dawn Derow’s artistry has earned her three MAC Awards (including Best Female Vocalist and Best Album), a Bistro Award, and glowing reviews for acclaimed shows like Revolution, Legit: A Classical Cabaret, and My Ship: Songs from 1941. Her album My Ship won Best Album at the MAC Awards, with Cabaret Scenes hailing her as “a supremely accomplished artist” with “a remarkable range.” Her acclaimed tribute, Dawn Derow Sings Eydie Gormé (played both at Birdland and 54 below, NYC), was praised for its vocal fireworks and recently played to packed houses, cementing her reputation as one of cabaret’s most versatile performers.Equally at home on the theatrical stage, Dawn has starred as Antonia in Man of La Mancha, Cathy in The Last Five Years, Adele in Die Fledermaus, and most recently Francesca in The Bridges of Madison County at the Delray Beach Playhouse — a performance that earned rave reviews and the award for Outstanding Actress in a Mainstage Production (2025). Internationally, she has brought her cabaret artistry abroad with sold-out runs at London’s Pheasantry (My Ship, 2023; Women’s Work, 2024) and a recent premiere of Because I Can/Porque Yo Puedo in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.Expanding her creative reach, Dawn co-produces Dorothy Dandridge: The Musical and originated the role of gossip columnist Hedda Hopper in its workshop. Offstage, she teaches mobility classes, provides Thai massage, and supports older adults in wellness programs. She divides her time between New York and Florida, returning to Provincetown each summer to perform.   On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Dawn Derow spoke about the feeling of performing on Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center’s hallowed stages and her latest single, “Everything’s Going to Be Alright,” which features a surprise video appearance with Dawn’s collaborator, Sean Harkness.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a thrill to welcome back my friend, Ed Eason, to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast. Reality TV fans first met Ed when he appeared on the inaugural season of Netflix’s The Circle. He competed alongside his mom, Tammy. While they entered the game in the eighth episode, they were eliminated on the eleventh episode.  After The Circle, Ed appeared on The Challenge 37: Spies, Lies and Allies as a replacement for Nam Vo, who was medically disqualified.   He won his first elimination with Survivor Romania alum Emy Alupei and was kept out of eliminations thanks to partners Ashley Mitchell and Tori Deal. However, Ed’s run ran out during the season’s eleventh episode when he lost to fan favorite Kyle Christie in the iconic Pole Wrestle elimination.  He returned to The Challenge 39: Battle for a New Champion. Ed won three daily challenges and survived both the Control and Chaos portions of the game but was eliminated in the middle of the season’s Conquest phase.  Recently, Ed expanded upon his passion for bodybuilding and entered the NPC Pennsylvania Muscle Championship. He came in first place in the novice Men’s Bodybuilding division, second place in the open lightweight-heavyweight division, and third place in classic physique. Ed also co-founded E3 Supplements.  On Ed Eason’s second go-around on Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, he spoke about missing The Challenge 40: Battle of the Eras and The Challenge 41: Vets & New Threats, going on a bodybuilding journey, and how E3 Supplements stand out in the fitness and wellness industries.  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a pleasure to welcome Shruti Sadana as a guest to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.  With a rich background both in front of the camera as an actor and behind the scenes in production, Shruti brings a uniquely holistic perspective to managing talent — one that honors the whole person, not just the career.As Co-Founder of Hey Beauti Magazine, a platform rooted in deep and authentic conversations, Shruti partnered with Nicola Haggins to amplify voices and stories that inspire real connection. She produced compelling cover shoots featuring talents like Sarah Shahi, Steve Howey, and Emmanuelle Chriqui, and conducted intimate interviews with stars including Megan Fox, always drawing out the essence beneath the surface.During the pandemic, Shruti Sadana’s journey took a powerful turn when she became certified in Quantum NLP Coaching and hypnosis. This transformative training awakened her to the profound power of healing subconscious patterns and aligned her with her soul’s true calling. Her purpose deepened further through the Beyond Bulletproof program with Evy Poumpouras, where she embraced a mission to serve artists with fierce intuition, compassion, and integrity.   Known for her intuitive insight, emotional intelligence, and unwavering commitment to her clients, Shruti is a game-changing manager who guides artists to breakthroughs not only professionally but personally — helping them rise as empowered, authentic forces in the industry.  On this edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Shruti Sadana spoke about how she launched Unveild Artist Management and how this organization stands out in the entertainment industry’s performer and creator management space.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

Author’s Note: Because Karen B. Gerson and I discussed serious topics related to mental health on the podcast, if you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, please visit the Mental Health Hotline website or call 9-8-8.  It is a thrill to welcome my longtime mentor, Karen B. Gerson, to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast. Karen is a writer, advocate, and survivor who uses her lived experience with mental illness to break stigma and inspire understanding. Her debut memoir, I Should Not Be Here, explores the ripple effects of OCD, PTSD, and depression—not only on those who live with them, but on the families and communities who love and support them. Through honesty, vulnerability, and hope, Karen’s work reminds readers that survival itself is an act of courage. A lifelong educator and community leader, Karen has dedicated over twenty years to program development and youth engagement within the Jewish community. She has also worked extensively with First Call, an organization that reduces the impact of substance use disorder, where she serves on the Board of Directors.Born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, Karen earned her Bachelor of Science in K–8 Education from The Ohio State University and her Executive Master of Public Administration from the University of Missouri–Kansas City. She has lived in Leawood, Kansas, for more than 25 years with her husband, Jeffry, their two sons, Gilli and Eitan, their dog Skeye, and Stuart the "big" bunny. When she's not writing, Karen can be found watching her boys play soccer, cheering for Sporting Kansas City, practicing yoga, traveling to her favorite places like Israel and Costa Rica, and celebrating life's moments with friends and family.On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Karen B. Gerson spoke about incorporating the voices of her loved ones into her memoir and shared tips to support loved ones’ mental health journeys! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a privilege to welcome actor and author Blake Cooper Griffin to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.  Blake’s story spans extraordinary extremes. Raised in the South, he survived bullying and conversion therapy as a teenager before navigating Hollywood as an openly gay actor long before inclusivity became an industry talking point. Despite being told by top representation that his sexuality made him “unmarketable,” he went on to book nine film and television roles in a single year — launching a career that includes standout performances in HBO’s Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, Ryan Murphy’s Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story on Netflix, Animal Kingdom, Preacher, and most recently Lionsgate’s Scrambled. His critically acclaimed role in Love Is All You Need? sparked an NPR collaboration and national speaking tour, cementing his reputation as a storyteller whose work resonates both on screen and off.  Beyond acting, Blake has built a life defined by authorship and impact. He is the founder and CEO of Brainworks, a premier educational consulting company that has helped hundreds of students reshape their futures and has served as a national surrogate for former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, former President Joe Biden, and former Vice President Kamala Harris, speaking nationwide on leadership, resilience, and LGBTQ+ visibility.  On February 24, Blake Cooper Griffin will release his memoir, The Story of You: A Life Rewritten. The memoir is part cinematic life story, part practical blueprint for reinvention; written for anyone standing at a crossroads between the life they were handed and the one they want to author next. Blending emotional honesty with sharp, actionable frameworks, the book invites readers to stop performing a version of their lives and start rewriting them with intention.  On this edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Blake Cooper Griffin spoke about the lessons he learned on the sets of Animal Kingdom, Preacher, and Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, and from former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton. Plus, he spoke about The Story of You: A Life Rewritten’s writing process.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a privilege to welcome back my friend, Kenyth Mogan, to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.  The Glasgow, Montana, native, now a Los Angeles transplant, released his first full-length studio album, Star Stealer.  The collection paid tribute to some of his favorite singer-songwriters, including Belinda Carlisle (“Live Your Life Be Free”), Tiffany (“I Think We’re Alone Now”), and several top artists from the 1980s and 1990s. Recently, Kenyth Mogan and the illustrator Umi Rage released My Super Fiancé. It is a genre-bending Boys Love drama that fuses superhero action with sizzling romance, mystery, and media intrigue. Set in the electrified sprawl of a futuristic metropolis known as Prism City, the story follows investigative journalist Trevor Prince and his fiancé Cole Carter—better known to the world as the vigilante superhero, MoonShadow. As love and danger collide, the two must navigate corrupt institutions, intergalactic conspiracies, and the fine line between truth and power. Told in twelve serialized episodes, each chapter is released with an original song crafted to amplify the themes, emotions, and tension of that episode—turning each release into a cinematic, multi-sensory experience. My Super Fiancé is equal parts superhero saga, queer love story, and social commentary—where power comes at a price, and passion pulls the trigger.On this edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Kenyth Mogan spoke about releasing his latest book, My Dead Boyfriend, the 20th anniversary of The Phoenix Chronicles, and what fans can expect from My Super Fiancé’s soundtrack.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a privilege to welcome singer, songwriter, and actress Kendra Erika to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.  Kendra’s unmistakable voice, cinematic flair, and fearless creativity have made her one of today’s compelling emerging artists. With five Billboard Top 10 dance hits, including her number one re-imaging of Laura Branigan’s “Self-Control,” Kendra has carved a signature lane in pop, dance, jazz-fusion, and sophisticated theatrical storytelling.   On February 13, Kendra released her new full-length studio album, License to Thrill. Inspired by the timeless world of James Bond glamour, the project blends cinematic jazz, sultry vocals, and modern sophistication—showcasing Kendra’s evolution from dance-floor powerhouse to a multidimensional artist with global appeal.   On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Kendra Erika shared the stories behind her most-streamed Spotify songs, how she overcame being tone-deaf to have a superb recording career, and License to Thrill.  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a privilege to welcome actor, model, and producer Jake Jensen to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.  Jake is a former professional tennis player turned actor, producer, sports psychologist, and mental health performance coach. He brings a rare blend of grit, intellect, and emotional depth to every role he inhabits – on screen and in life. His portrayal of Finn Larsen in Challengers is a profound statement of his ability to channel lived experience into cinematic authenticity. As a trash-talking Scandinavian tennis pro, Jensen’s character embodies the psychological warfare and raw ambition that define the sport’s most competitive tiers.  Yet Jake’s story doesn’t begin—or end—on the court. He holds a PhD in Sport & Performance Psychology and serves as a tenured professor at California State University, Northridge. His work with elite athletes, actors, and creatives focuses on optimizing mental performance through mindfulness, emotional regulation, and strategic mindset training. Whether coaching one-on-one or lecturing in the classroom, Jake’s approach is grounded, intuitive, and transformative.  As a producer and creative collaborator, Jake is currently leading the romantic fantasy drama Believe, where he stars as a war veteran entangled in a mysterious love story with Eve from the Bible. He’s also a gifted pianist and composer, scoring original work while developing new scripts that fuse psychological insight with artistic storytelling.   On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Jake Jensen spoke about the lessons that he learned from the Challengers and King Richard sets, previewed Believe and Power 98.5’s In the Actors and Athletes Studio, where he co-hosts with Steven Cuoco. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a privilege to welcome back my friend, content creator, entrepreneur and podcast host Tony Berardo, to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.  Tony is a content and podcast expert. He offers various services, including sponsorship opportunities for his two successful podcasts and podcast coaching services to help people start a podcast. He also specializes in creating UGC (user-generated content) videos to help customers engage more with their websites and social media channels. Previous clients include AeroTrunk, HighKey, LifePro, Ninja Creami, and Superfat + Whole Foods.  Tony also hosts the show, Humanity & Hashtags (formerly The Berardo Project). The show focuses on what it really means to stay human in a digital age world. From wellness and mindset to social media, parenting, and productivity, he keeps it real with honest conversations, humor, and objective thinking. Previous guests include actors Annie Korzen (Seinfeld) and Whitney Caskey (HBO Max’s Somewhat Familiar), filmmaker Jason Manchester, Emmy-nominated reporter and comedian Garin Flowers, and podcast hosts Jeff Dwoskin and Natalie and Rebecca Davey (Reframeables).  Tony Berardo also launched the Human Dad brand. Human Dad was not born in a group chat looking for laughs. It was born in the quiet moments – when responsibility hits harder than you expected, and there’s no manual, no applause, and no reset button. Tony got tired of seeing fatherhood turned into a punchline – the jokes, the novelty merchandise, and the “Best Dad Ever” energy that disappears the second things get hard. Human Dad exists for the men who take that seriously – the ones breaking cycles, learning in real time, showing up exhausted, and doing the work even when no one’s watching. On this edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Tony Berardo spoke about Humanity & Hashtags and the creation of the Human Dad Club.  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a privilege to welcome Woody Woodbeck to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.  For over 20 years, Woody has been taking the world of entertainment by storm, starting in radio and quickly expanding to TV, entertainment news, and social media. He is an TELLY, EMMY & GLAAD award winning TV producer, former producer for Dr. Phil, former member of President Obama's Leadership Council of 2012, previously a producer for former Vice President Al Gore and CURRENT TV, and has been featured in PEOPLE, OUT magazine, Entertainment Tonight, Huffington Post and The Advocate magazine for his work within the LGBTQ community, high profile events and celeb relationships.Over the past several years, Woody was part of the production teams on projects for Hulu, MTV, OWN, Bravo, and his first feature-length sports documentary. He has worked on shows like Real Housewives of Potomac (BRAVO), Queer Eye (NETFLIX), Southern Hospitality (BRAVO), The Challenge USA: Season 2 (CBS), Beyond the Pole (WEtv), Love after Lockup (WEtv), The Real World (MTV), and more.  Woody Woodbeck spent years dominating the entertainment news world as West Coast Editor-at-Large for LIFE & STYLE Weekly, coordinating producer at E! News Now, and a freelance writer for US Weekly. He hails from upstate New York, where he learned to treat everyone with respect and to wear his heart on his sleeve, allowing him to form genuine connections with anyone he meets. He is currently developing unscripted TV shows and is a producer at NewsNation.   On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Woody Woodbeck spoke about being on the ground floors of iconic Reality TV shows such as America’s Next Top Model, Project Runway, and Top Chef, his time in The Challenge universe, and how working for NewsNation is similar or different to working on Reality TV!  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a privilege to welcome comedian and musician Jeff Richards to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.  Jeff is one of two cast members to have performed on both late-night comedy shows – MADTV and Saturday Night Live (SNL). On January 23, he released a 31-track collection called Don’t Know You (But I Miss You). The collection brings together the best of his music from years of projects, characters, and his alter ego, Ditto Kitto, all released under his own name.  The album swings from lo-fi 80s weird-pop to sharp, funny mini-anthems, several of which also appear in his upcoming horror comedy, Pay to Die, co-starring Robert Carradine. Jeff recently went viral with his Gary Busey impression on his show, The Jeff Richards Show (“Buttered Sausage”), pulling in hundreds of millions of views and introducing a new audience to his signature chaotic brilliance.  On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Jeff Richards talked about working on both MADTV and SNL, the stories behind several songs that are featured on Don’t Know You (But I Miss You), and previewed Pay to Die.  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

A Note from Jacob: Since the recording of our podcast, Israel found and returned the body of Ran Gvilii from Gaza, marking the return of all hostages.  It is a privilege to welcome singer-songwriter Tristan to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast. Tristan is a Generation Z recording artist with a growing social media following thanks to his music and activism. Since the October 7 attacks, he has raised his voice on social media, calling out against the raging antisemitism and anti-Zionism. He also launched the We Are Dancing Again movement, which honors the victims and survivors of the Nova Music Festival who were brutally attacked by the terrorist organization Hamas.  On this edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Tristan gave the stories behind his songs, including “Take You Dancing,” “We Don’t Have to Talk,” and “Some Kind of Way.” He also spoke about the We Are Dancing Again movement and his fight to combat anti-Jewish hate online.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.