Jake's Take with Jacob Elyachar

It is an honor to welcome both Weston “Wes” & Amanda Bergmann to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.  Reality TV fans first met Weston Bergmann in 2006’s The Real World: Austin. On the show, he met longtime friends Melinda (Stolp) Collins and Nehemiah Clark, and once filming completed, Weston and the rest of the Austin cast headed off to compete on the long-running MTV competition, The Challenge.  Throughout his time on the show, he appeared on 14 flagship seasons, both Champs vs. Stars seasons, The Challenge USA 2, The Challenge All-Stars: Season Three, and The Challenge: World Championship. He has cumulatively won three championships, 30 eliminations, 44 daily challenges, and $553,000.  Outside of The Challenge, Weston Bergmann also competed on several Reality TV shows. In 2024, he competed on House of Villains and finished second.  Last year, he appeared on the popular Peacock Reality TV series, The Traitors, and made it to the final four on Food Network’s Worst Cooks in America.  When he is not competing on Reality TV, Weston Bergmann is working at his company, BetaBlox. BetaBlox is a business incubator that helps entrepreneurs launch their businesses. Entrepreneurs who work with BetaBlox are statistically twice as likely to stay in business as those who don’t. BetaBlox’s combined annual client revenues have reached over a quarter of a billion US dollars!  BetaBlox also produces The Blox, a gamified, five-day educational bootcamp for entrepreneurs. The Blox is also the most intense, game-changing, community-building experience of their lives and will impact participants’ bank accounts.  In 2016, Weston proposed to Amanda at a Kansas City Royals game, and they married in June 2018.  Amanda Bergmann is a yoga teacher and fitness enthusiast who is always on the hunt for deals. She specializes in fashion, family, and food, and shares those finds with her 40K Instagram followers. Amanda has also been a massive supporter of local and regional Midwest businesses. Durrie Vision, Hy-Vee, Radiant Color Studio, Urban Egg, and Woodhouse Spa Leawood have previously been featured on Amanda’s Instagram (@nomastayinkc).  On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Weston and Amanda spoke about their proposal’s tenth anniversary, Weston celebrating 20 years on Reality TV, his iconic Pole Wrestle battle with Derrick Kosinski, and building their distinguished brands and communities. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

I am so delighted to finally welcome one of my friends and mentors, the incomparable Julie Cortés, to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast!  Julie is a copywriter by day and a freelance rockstar by night. Her journey began in 1998, when she was removed from her job. However, the event lit a fire beneath her. What started as a “What now?” moment turned into a HELL YEAH kind of career – one that she built from the ground up following her natural talent, relentless drive, and rebellious energy.  Today, Julie Cortés helps clients across the globe find their voice, own their brand, and show up like the rockstars they were meant to be.  Julie did not choose the freelance life. It chose her! Fast forward over 25 years, and Julie Cortés founded the Freelance Exchange of Kansas City, a community for solo creatives. She also built and taught a college-level Freelancing 101 course at the Kansas City Art Institute. Julie became a business coach for freelancers and solopreneurs and spoke on stages across the country.  She was also featured on various media platforms, including Clients from Hell, CNN, Great Day KC, The Kansas City Business Journal, and The Kansas City Star.  Julie won numerous awards, ranging from Innovator of the Year from the Stevie Awards for Women in Business and the Women’s Business Advocate of the Year from the Kansas Department of Commerce to being named a Small Business Superstar by the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce.  On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Julie Cortés shared the origin story of Freelance Exchange of Kansas City, the creation of a Freelancing 101 course, and her efforts to combat antisemitism and anti-Zionism on social media.  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 actress and singer Kim Yarbrough back to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar brand (and for the first time on the podcast) for the first time in 14 years!   Many Reality TV fans first saw Kim Yarbrough audition for The Voice USA: Season Two in Spring 2012. Her powerful interpretation of Chaka Khan’s “Tell Me Something Good” turned both founding coaches' chairs, Adam Levine and Christina Aguilera, around.  After joining Team Adam, Kim wowed the audience with her cover of Mary J. Blige’s “No More Drama” and advanced to the Season Two Live Playoffs.  During The Voice: Season Two Live Playoffs, she sang Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep” but fell into the Bottom Three.  After delivering a superb, powerful cover of Jennifer Hudson’s “Spotlight,” the Maroon 5 frontman chose to advance Kim’s then teammate, Katrina Parker, to the Top 16.  After her appearance on the NBC talent competition, Al Roker, Hoda Kotb, and Kathie Lee Gifford interviewed her on Today, and she sang with the Roots on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon. Over the years, Kim dove deep into the entertainment industry. She guest-starred on several television shows, including 2 Broke Girls, 9-1-1, Hollywood Heights, Hot in Cleveland, Kenan, The Mindy Project, New Girl, Shameless, and The Up-Shaws. Kim also had recurring roles in Cherish the Day (Aunt Natalie), The Haunted Hathaways (Madame Labuef), and the animated series Kid Cosmic (Flo (voice)). In addition, Kim lent her voice to the Oscar-winning animated film Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.  She also shared the stage and screen with entertainment industry legends, including Dennis Quaid, Loretta Devine, Octavia Spencer, Cedric the Entertainer, Stevie Wonder, Sheila E, and the late Betty White and her mentor Della Reese, who produced the stage show Della Reese Presents Kim Yarbrough, which allowed Kim to showcase her talents to the Hollywood Entertainment Community.   On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Kim Yarbrough spoke about voice acting, tutoring students in the arts, and if she would ever audition for America’s Got Talent or wait for a future All-Stars season of The Voice USA. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

The Masked Singer is back! America’s favorite celebrity competition has returned for a fourteenth helping. Host Nick Cannon and panelists Ken Jeong, Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg, Robin Thicke, and Rita Ora welcomed a new set of undercover performers to the show. Little do they know that Rita’s Descendants co-star, Kylie Cantrall, infiltrated the competition as the show’s first Masked Singer (MS) Insider.  Last week, she entered the competition as the Cat Witch and, along with fellow competitors Galaxy Girl, Hangman, Pugcasso, Queen Corgi, Scarab, Snow Cone, and Stingray, advanced.  However, her competitors, Googly Eyes and the Croissants, were forced to leave the show. Baseball legend David “Big Papi” Ortiz was behind the Googly Eyes costume, while the Season 14 premiere episode ended with the identity of the Croissants just about to be unmasked.  On the second episode of The Masked Singer: Season 14, fans learned the Croissants’ true identities and experienced Fear Night, where five new costumed performers – Calla Lily, Eggplant, High Voltage, Le Who Who, and Owl – made their debuts along with guest panelist Johnny Knoxville, who hosts the revival of Fear Factor: House of Fear.  Which performers joined Googly Eyes and the Croissants in the Season 14 elimination club?Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

I could not be celebrating my fifteenth anniversary as a content creator and interviewer without welcoming back one of my all-time favorite guests and Reality TV alums, Paulie Calafiore, to Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar.  Paulie first made his way to Reality TV when he was cast on CBS’s Big Brother 18, where he won two HOHs and three Vetoes before being evicted on Day 66. He next made his MTV debut on the inaugural season of Ex on the Beach USA. After the show, Paulie ventured onto The Challenge: Final Reckoning, where he teamed up with Big Brother rival Natalie Negrotti. Despite being eliminated in the second and third episodes, the duo returned to the game near the season’s end, where they ultimately placed third.  He returned for War of the Worlds 1 and partnered with Natalie “Ninja” Duran and (for two episodes) Georgia Harrison. Paulie won seven daily challenges but did not make it to the finale. In War of the Worlds 2, he, along with Cara Maria Sorbello, Ninja, and series veterans Ashley Mitchell, Kam Williams, Leroy Garrett, and Zach Nichols, took command of Team USA and won four daily challenges before gassing out and finishing second.  Four years after War of the Worlds 2, Paulie Calafiore returned to CBS to compete in The Challenge USA: Season 2. Despite reconnecting with allies such as Amanda Garcia, Cory Wharton, and Wes Bergmann, and rebuilding bridges with foes including Johnny Bananas, Josh Martinez, and Tori Deal, Paulie was sent home early after losing to the seven-time Challenge champion in the Fire and Ice arena game.   Paulie returned to compete on the milestone season, The Challenge 40: Battle of the Eras, representing Era Four. Sadly, he was eliminated by his longtime rival, Theo Campbell, in the show’s classic Hall Brawl elimination. Since that appearance, he appeared with Cara Maria Sortbello on Hulu’s Vanderpump Villa and Netflix’s Pop The Balloon.   When he is not on Reality TV, Paulie owns Paulie Calafiore Management and Productions. He leads with a vision to produce original, high-quality content that resonates deeply with audiences. His company focuses on bold storytelling, creative collaboration, and the embrace of emerging technologies to push the boundaries of entertainment across television, film, and digital platforms. He is also the captain of The Soccer Tournament team, the Kingdom FC, with his brother, fellow Big Brother legend Cody Calafiore.     On his fourth go-around, Paulie Calafiore spoke about his brief time on The Challenge 40: Battle of the Eras, The Challenge 41: Vets vs. New Threats’ lackluster veteran representation, rebranding Ten Management into Calafiore Management, adding Calafiore Global and Calafiore Productions to his portfolio, and celebrating his tenth anniversary of being a part of the Reality TV community.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar is beginning our 15th anniversary celebration! To commemorate this milestone, I decided to combine two of my favorite things – podcasting and The Masked Singer! Introducing, Jake’s Masked Singer Take! Like its older brother spin-off, Jake’s AGT Take, this podcast focuses on FOX’s undercover celebrity talent competition!    For the first time in a year, The Masked Singer is back and with its biggest twist ever! Earlier in December, actress and singer (and Rita Ora’s Disney’s Descendants co-star) Kylie Cantrall was revealed to fans as the MS Insider. However, while the panel (Rita, Ken Jeong, Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg, and Robin Thicke) doesn’t know she is competing, viewers don't know her undercover identity.   In addition to Kylie competing, Entertainment Weekly reported that there are 17 additional costumes and that this batch of performers collectively has over 54 million Instagram followers and sold over 94 million records. These performers will compete throughout different theme nights, including Fear Factor (with new host Johnny Knoxville), Star Trek, Clueless, and Ozzfest, which will see Kelly Osbourne (Ladybug in Season Two) return and help the show pay homage to her late father -the incomparable Ozzy Osbourne.  On Wednesday, January 7,  The Masked Singer returned to FOX airwaves for a massive two-hour season premiere!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, three-time Tony-winning producer and investor Evan McGill, to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast!  Evan is also a Drama Desk Award and Drama League Award-winning theatrical and music producer whose work spans Broadway, the West End, and Australia. He is a member of the Broadway League and the founder of Evan McGill Productions, where he has played a pivotal role in shaping some of the most celebrated theatrical productions in recent years. ​ On Broadway, his producing credits include Parade (2023), The Sign in Sidney Brustein’s Window (2023), The Outsiders, and Sunset Blvd (2024), and he has held a stake in numerous other commercial productions. Across the pond, Evan is involved in the West End revivals of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Starlight Express (2024) and Evita (2025), among others. In Australia, he has been involved with Hamilton, MJ, and Beetlejuice.In addition to his work on stage, Evan McGill has produced successful Broadway cast albums, including The Music Man: The 2022 Broadway Cast Recording and Funny Girl: New Broadway Cast Recording—both of which debuted at #1 on the Billboard Cast Albums chart. ​ In the world of entertainment finance, Evan McGill serves as a general partner at Tanninger Fund II, an SEC-registered investment vehicle that supports live entertainment ventures globally. His work has earned him three Tony Awards, including Best Revival of a Musical for Parade at the 76th Tony Awards, Best Musical for The Outsiders at the 77th Tony Awards (in collaboration with Tanninger Entertainment), and Best Revival of a Musical for Sunset Blvd. at the 78th Tony Awards. He also received a Drama Desk Award for Parade and a Drama League Award as part of the producing team behind Sunset Blvd.  On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Evan McGill talked about his success with The Outsiders, why Sunset Blvd was a cultural phenomenon, and previewed both the latest North American tour of Monty Python’s Spamalot and Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York). Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is hard to believe that 2025 is concluding on December 31. This year has come and gone so fast!Professional Milestones:   It has been an incredible year for Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar, as we received our first award – a Silver Stevie for “Best Interview / Talk Show” in the inaugural podcasting division. Million Podcasts placed the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast at number 72 on their Best 100 Celebrity Interview Podcasts in the US. I am honored to be included on this list, joining On Air with Ryan Seacrest (number four), The Drew Barrymore Show (number five), Entertainment Tonight (number 20), Zach Sang Song (number 21), and Vanity Fair’s Little Gold Men (number 49). Finally, I am delighted to announce that I was named a Small Biz Superstar by the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce.   State of the Podcast: It’s time for the annual state of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast! Season Six has ended, and what a year! Our downloads surpassed 2024 and crossed the 15,000- and 16,000-lifetime download milestones. In 2025, the podcast reached its highest listenership to date, with listeners in 76 countries! I want to thank the listeners in the United States, the Philippines, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, India, Germany, France, Brazil, and the Netherlands, who listened to the podcast the most.   Our most downloaded episodes of 2025 were my conversations with Taskmaster UK’s Greg Davies and Alex Horne; my two-part interview with The Challenge 41 champion Yeremi Hykel; Emmy-winning actor Mike Manning; the 375th episode, starring Challenge Mania co-host Scott Yager; and the Reality TV Godfather, Mark Long. Emmy-winning actor and advocate Yuval David, Canada’s Got Talent winner, Jacob Lewis (whose interview is my seventh most viewed YouTube video), actor and Rookie Revolution host Oscar Chark, Tony Mantor, award-winning journalist Jane Eisner, and Men Explained, Finally author Tom Sturges round out the Top 10.  Music Notes:   This year saw a lot of impeccable music! My Top 40 songs playlist features duets from Barbra Streisand and Bob Dylan’s “My Funny Valentine” and Calum Scott and the late Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me),” originals including Morgan Wallen’s “I’m the Problem,” Yuval Raphael’s “A New Day will Rise” and Zac Brown Band’s “The Sum.” There were also exceptional covers such as Adam Lambert’s “Heaven’s on Their Minds” and Cynthia Erivo’s show-stopping “No Good Deed.”  In addition to Ms. Streisand, Mr. Scott, Mr. Wallen, and the Zac Brown Band, 2025 produced impeccable albums from Ciara, Elton John and Brandi Carlile, Lady Gaga, Michael Lazar, Tim Johnson, Jr., Toby Gad, and The Weeknd.  Previewing The 15th Anniversary:   2026 marks the 15th anniversary of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar brand. I never thought when I started jakes-take.com in August 2011, I would still be creating content. 13 episodes of the podcast’s seventh season have been recorded! Reality TV legends Jon Brennan and Beth Stolarczyk will be the guests on the milestone 400th episode. Other returning guests include Demi the Daredevil’s Jeff, three-time Tony-winning producer Evan McGill, Kim Yarbrough (her first appearance on my platform in 14 years), Mike Lewis, and Rookie Revolution host Oscar Chark (in a joint appearance), Paulie Calafiore, and Tony Berardo.  Reality TV icon and three-time Challenge champion Wes Bergmann and his wife, Amanda, freelance rockstar Julie Cortes, actor Jake Jensen, award-winning TV producer Woody Woodbeck, and singers Kendra Erika and Tristan are making their first visits.   In Memoriam: Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar pays homage to several impeccable people who passed away in 2025. Chef Anne Burrell, Anthony Geary, Brian Wilson, Diane Keaton, George Wendt, James Carter Cathcart, Jim Shooter, Leslie Charleson, Malcolm Jamal Warner, Michelle Trachtenberg, Ozzy Osbourne, Peter Yarrow, Rod Reiner, Ruth Buzzi, Sam Moore, Sly Stone, and Val Kilmer all left remarkable imprints on pop culture, and they will be missed.   I also want to acknowledge the tragic deaths and passings of my fellow Kansas Citian, Sarah Milgrim, and her boyfriend, Yaron Lischinsky, who were fatally shot in Washington, D.C. at the Capital Jewish Museum. I am also still reeling from the shooting at a Hanukkah event at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, where 15 people were massacred, and 40 people were injured.   Season’s Greetings:Thank you, everyone, for all your support this year! I want to thank all my guests who took time out of their schedules to visit the podcast, as well as the media teams who trusted my platform to help their clients see and share their stories. I also want to give a special shoutout to my family: mom Gloria, dad Matthew, brother Aaron, sister-in-law Whitney, nephew Nash, and nieces Emory and Kennedy. I love you all to pieces!  Finally, thank you to the readers and listeners who followed me on this journey! I hope 2026 will be a phenomenal year for all of us!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 newly crowned Challenge champion Yeremi Hykel for a special Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast episode.  A veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, Yeremi first appeared on Reality TV on The Amazing Race 35, which aired in 2023. He partnered with his brother, Navy veteran Liam, who had been estranged for years.  The first leg saw the duo start racing from the Hollywood sign and finish in Thailand, where they placed eighth out of 13.  The duo was nearly eliminated in Vietnam, but fortunately, it was a non-elimination leg. Sadly, Yeremi and Liam were sent home after the Race took them to India.  Throughout the competition, Yeremi completed two roadblocks, while his brother completed three challenges.  Two years later, Yeremi headed to The Challenge to compete on the long-running Reality TV competition’s forty-first season, Vets vs. New Threats. Yeremi made a name for himself when he completed the opening challenge – climbing the mountain to get to the Challenge House. Throughout the season, Yeremi showcased his leadership abilities and became one of the New Threats’ strongest leaders in the house. He won both the “Cyclone” daily challenge with fellow New Threat Sydney Segal and the “Running Man” daily challenge with partner Aviv Bruno. He also competed in the “Pull It Together” elimination challenge against two-time Challenge champion Jonna Mannion and New Threat Gabe Wai and won. When Yeremi is not competing, he is a model signed with the Block Agency, a fierce competitor in various fitness competitions, and a world traveler.  In part two of our conversation, Yeremi Hykel discussed the second half of the game, which featured a shocking move: he chose to partner with Olivia Kaiser over Aviv, winning The Challenge 41: Vets vs. New Threats, and which show icons he wants to face off in a future season.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

For the final regular podcast of 2025, I am thrilled to welcome back my friend, eight-time Emmy-winning media personality Michael Mackie, to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast!  Michael Mackie is a proud Midwesterner. Growing up, he always knew he wanted to be in TV. Or on TV. Or watching TV. (He’s not picky.) “I even got my degree in broadcasting from the University of Iowa to prove to the world I was not only educated but well-versed in sitcoms, game shows, and Oprah,” he says. “Also, I got minors in French and acting as well. Someday, that will enable me to write, produce, direct, and star in a straight-to-video project in Quebec.”  Not only is Michael an Aries with a Pisces rising, but he’s also an eight-time Emmy award winner. He’s worked and freelanced for various local television affiliates in Des Moines, Orlando, and Kansas City, and was the co-host of a local daily entertainment show, KC Live.   A prolific travel writer by trade, Michael recently joined the prestigious Society of American Travel Writers. “My parents never could comprehend how I earned my keep stringing words together for the universe to appreciate,” he says. “Frankly, that makes three of us. But I feel like it’s what I was put on this earth to do. I was born to tell people’s stories. Whether you read it—welp, that’s up to you.”  Recently, Michael Mackie released his new book, You Have 4 Minutes: My Life as an Unlikely Celebrity Interviewer. The book, which includes an introduction by Cindy Wilson of the B-52’s, explains why actress Lindsay Wagner (The Bionic Woman) was one of his favorite interview subjects, and why Andrew Dice Clay was his worst interview. You Have 4 Minutes explores the art of interviewing, dishes a bit of gossip about the stars, and dives deep into his navigation throughout his life’s biggest challenges – suffering a major stroke at age 40, the beast that is alcoholism, and a year without all refined sugar.  On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Michael Mackie spoke about his writing process, some of his most memorable entries, including telling Marie Osmond, “Perky! Boobies Up,” and Jennifer Holliday’s presence on the defunct Kansas City Live set, and having Cindy Wilson write the book’s introduction.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is an honor and a privilege to welcome music producer and songwriter Toby Gad to the first Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast Holiday Special!  Toby began his career in the late 1980s, when he and his brother Jens had three of their songs featured on controversial music duo Milli Vanilli’s European debut and multi-platinum album, All or Nothing. Because of the songs’ success, Milli Vanilli’s producer Frank Farian produced the brothers’ 1990 debut album, NRG. That same year, Toby met Jacqueline Nemorin, and a 10-year collaboration began with 1992’s Creole Dance and continued with 1995’s Mission of Love and the title song for Neverending Story III.  Following success in Germany, Toby left for the United States. He opened Strawberrybee studio in Midtown Manhattan and co-wrote “Unspoken” with Madeline Stone and O. Hatch for Christian platinum artist Jaci Velasquez. The song stayed on the Christian Billboard Top 20 Singles chart for half a year.  In 2003, Toby produced and co-wrote “A Toast to Men” for Willa Ford, and two years later, developed, produced, and co-wrote Kaci Brown’s Interscope Records debut, Instigator. He also produced and co-wrote songs for Ricky Martin and the Veronicas.  In 2008, his career shifted into high gear after Fergie released a song they co-wrote, “Big Girls Don’t Cry.” The song went 4x platinum and peaked at the number one position on the US Billboard Hot 100. He also co-wrote and co-produced Beyoncé’s “If I Were A Boy,” which went 2x platinum and peaked at number three on the US Billboard Hot 100. He continued to write massive hits for Calum Scott (“No Matter What”), Demi Lovato (“Skyscraper”), Jessie J (“Who You Are”), Josh Groban (“River”), Leona Lewis (“Fire Under My Feet’), and Madonna (“Bitch, I’m Madonna” and “Living for Love”).  One of his massive hits was John Legend’s “All of Me,” which earned RIAA’s 13x Diamond (Highest Certified RIAA Single in History) and won Grammy, Soul Train, and NAACP Awards.  Recently, Toby Gad released his first holiday studio album, Piano Diaries Christmas. The album features original songs co-written with an all-star group of recording artists. Anthony Gargiula, Gavin James, Huntley, Joelle James, Jordin Sparks, Loren Allred, Marisha Wallace, Sam Ryder, and Victoria Justice are some of the talented vocalists who are featured on the record.    When he is not in the recording studio, Toby is also the host of the Songs You Know Podcast. In each episode, Toby and his guests uncover the tales, creative processes, and moments of magic that brought iconic songs you know and love to life. Previous guests include Billy Steinberg, Jessie J, Josh Groban, Justin Tranter, Lindy Robbins, Loren Allred, and Marisha Wallace.  On the 2025 holiday special, Toby Gad talked about his songwriting sessions with Beyonce and Demi Lovato, writing “All of Me” with John Legend, the moment he swore at the Queen of Pop, and previewed Piano Diaries Christmas. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

Welcome to a special edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast! Today, we welcome D’Andre McKenzie to the podcast!   A Lee’s Summit, Missouri native, D’Andre McKenzie began his career as a Defensive Back (jersey number 29) for the University of Missouri Tigers football team.  After graduating with a double bachelor’s degree in mass communication + Media Studies and English, D’Andre worked as an actor in the Kansas City metropolitan area before relocating to New York City.  In 2023, D’Andre made his Reality TV debut on Netflix’s Squid Game: The Challenge’s first season. He wore the 288 jersey in hopes of beating out 455 other players to win the show’s prize of $4.56 million, the largest prize in TV competition history. While he survived in the inaugural game of “Red Light, Green Light,” he made it into the dormitory.  Sadly, his luck ran out when his group failed to reach a unanimous consensus during the Dalgona challenge.  Also in 2023, D’Andre McKenzie started the Way Network and The D’Andre Way. He covered major events such as the NFL Draft, the WNBA Draft, and the NBA Playoffs. His presence enhanced fan experiences at games and events by inserting them into the conversation surrounding the experience. He created channels on social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, and built a combined total of 20,000 followers and over 5 million engagements.  On this special edition of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, D’Andre McKenzie shared his experience on Squid Game: The Challenge’s first season, going viral on social media, and potentially competing on other Reality TV shows.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 actor Bryan James to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.  A California native, Bryan James grew up all over the state, living everywhere from San Francisco to San Diego. James did a lot of theatre growing up in different areas of the state. When he moved to Hollywood, he joined the Ivana Chubbuck Studio.    Bryan took his first step in the professional acting world when he starred in the Discovery Health Channel’s Mystery ER. From 2012 to 2016, he created, produced, and starred in the popular web series Youthful Daze, in which he portrayed Drew Castle and his split personality, Joshua.  The Calabasas, California-set series also starred Chrishelle Stause, Rick Hearst, Jen Lilley, Eden Riegel, and Mike Manning. He also hosted TMI Hollywood for five episodes, starred as Officer Mark Jenkins in Bloodbath, and guest-starred on General Hospital and AppleTV+’s Palm Royale.    On November 21, Bryan will star in the psychological thriller Reckless. The film is a bold, razor-sharp reimaging of the cult classic Fatal Attraction. The film dives deep into obsession, betrayal, and the dangerous unraveling of desire against the glossy backdrop of California. In the movie, Bryan James portrays Alex Forrest, a magnetic television star whose affair with Dan Gallagher (four-time Emmy-nominee Max Ehrich), spirals into a chilling game of cat and mouse. When passion turns into fixation, Alex’s charm transfigures into manipulation and violence, which threatens Dan’s marriage with Beth (Rachel Fox), career, and sanity in a modern cautionary tale that explores how intimacy, fame, and digital exposure collide.  On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Bryan James reminisced about his time on Youthful Daze, the lessons he learned from being on the sets of General Hospital and Palm Royale. He also previewed his take on one of cinema’s greatest villains.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-songwriter Jennifer Harper as a guest on the latest edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.  Raised in a musical family in Washington, D.C., Jennifer was drawn to the piano from a young age. Her early influences included the sounds of Simon & Garfunkel, Cat Stevens, and Joni Mitchell, which she taught herself to play by ear. This early passion for music set the stage for a lifelong journey of creative expression and healing. Jennifer’s artistry is both contemplative and assured, a blend of her classical training and deep connection to the healing power of music. Her album, Soul Alive, reflects this duality, offering a soothing, mantra-like sound that resonates with listeners on a profound level. Created with the guidance of NY producer Matt Anthony, the album captures Jennifer’s personal transformation during the pandemic and channels themes of hope, healing, and positivity. Over the years, Jennifer’s work has gained recognition in notable outlets such as No Depression, BuzzFeed, and Songwriting Magazine. Her performances have graced legendary venues across the U.S., from Rockwood Music Hall and The Cutting Room in New York to The Mint in Los Angeles. Icon Roquel “Billy” Davis has mentored her, collaborated with and performed alongside world-renowned musicians, and appeared on large stages at March for Our Lives rallies, further solidifying her influence in the music world. But Jennifer’s journey isn’t confined to music alone.After discovering Human Design and the Gene Keys, she spent two years studying them intensively. Now, she blends her musical talents with spiritual guidance to support women worldwide in reaching their full potential. Through her Soul Blueprint Activations and Sacred Frequency Recalibrations, Jennifer offers transformative experiences that merge frequency, sound, and energy work. Her Sacred Frequency Recalibrations are designed to amplify clarity, ground energy at the cellular level, activate DNA, clear ancestral blocks, and magnetize true potential.A proud mother of three grown children, Jennifer finds joy in nature, healthy living, and inspiring others. As she continues to build momentum for Soul Alive, Jennifer remains committed to her mission of healing and empowerment through her music and spiritual work.      On this edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Jennifer Harper revealed her musical influences, Soul Alive, and the stories behind her most-streamed Spotify songs.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar salutes all the veterans who served in the United States Armed Forces. Thank you for your service and sacrifices.  It is a pleasure to welcome Yeremi Hykel to the podcast! A veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, Yeremi first appeared on Reality TV on The Amazing Race 35, which aired in 2023. He partnered with his brother, Navy veteran Liam, who had been estranged for years.  The first leg saw the duo start racing from the Hollywood sign and finish in Thailand, where they placed eighth out of 13.  The duo was nearly eliminated in Vietnam, but fortunately, it was a non-elimination leg. Sadly, Yeremi and Liam were sent home after the Race took them to India.  Throughout the competition, Yeremi completed two roadblocks, while his brother completed three challenges.  Two years later, Yeremi headed to The Challenge to compete on the long-running Reality TV competition’s forty-first season, Vets vs. New Threats. Yeremi made a name for himself when he completed the opening challenge – climbing the mountain to get to the Challenge House. Throughout the season, Yeremi showcased his leadership abilities and became one of the New Threats’ strongest leaders in the house. He won both the “Cyclone” daily challenge with fellow New Threat Sydney Segal and the “Running Man” daily challenge with partner Aviv Bruno. He also competed in the “Pull It Together” elimination challenge against two-time Challenge champion Jonna Mannion and New Threat Gabe Wai, and won. When Yeremi is not competing, he is a model signed with the Block Agency, a fierce competitor in various fitness competitions, and a world traveler.  On this Veterans’ Day edition of the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Yeremi Hykel shared his U.S. Marine Corps journey, why he and Liam were constantly near the bottom of the pack on The Amazing Race, and took us behind the moves during the first weeks of The Challenge 41: Vets vs. New Threats. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

Six years ago, I launched a new venue, The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast. The podcast has welcomed guests across the entertainment and lifestyle industries.   The guests have ranged from Emmy-winning journalists such as Anne Trujillo, Elex Michaelson, and Michael Mackie, and Emmy-winning actor Mike Manning, to Tony-winning producer Evan McGill and Reality TV legends such as Beth Stolarczyk, Derrick Kosinski, Ethan Zohn, Jon Brennan, Mark Long, Rachel Reilly, Rob Cesternino, and Syrus Yarbrough.  I am incredibly grateful to all the publicists and talent management teams who trusted me with their clients.  I am grateful for the friendships that I built along the way with my podcasting colleagues and guests. They include my friends over at AGT Time Pod, Brent Wolgamott (who was my first guest), Challenge Historian’s Jacob, Challenge Mania’s Derrick and Scott Yager, Drew Angelman, Josh Skinner, Matt Cohen, Mike Lewis, Paige of Most Likely & TikTok, Tony Berado, and Wes of Thinking Critical.  I want to thank my dear friends and family who supported my podcasting journey, especially my mom, Gloria, my dad, Matthew, my brother, Aaron, my sister-in-law, Whitney, my nephew, Nash, my nieces, Emory and Kennedy, and my doggy nephew, Maxwell.   Finally—and most importantly—I want to thank you—the listeners from over 80 countries—for taking time out of your schedules to watch and listen to my content! I am grateful for your continuous support.  For my sixth anniversary episode, I am delighted to welcome my longtime friend, Becky Wilson! Becky runs WDS Marketing and Public Relations. WDS is a boutique agency with a unique and proven niche. Their focus is on helping savvy entrepreneurs and clever business owners tell their stories. Results included increased awareness, enhanced credibility, and new relationships in the business community.  Becky leverages media, accolades, events, and other prime opportunities to elevate client brands and help them become known in the most positive, dynamic, and delightful ways.   WDS received honors from the Kansas City Business Marketing Association’s Fountain Awards program and the Kansas City Public Relations Society’s Prism Awards. Becky Wilson has been honored twice by the U.S. Small Business Administration as a regional “Women Business Champion.”She is the co-founder of the Kansas City Council of Women Business Owners (KC-CWBO), which was designated as one of the most outstanding women’s business organizations in the United States by the Stevie Awards for Women in Business.   WDS offers pro bono and discounted services to select nonprofit and business organizations each year. We have recently assisted the Samuel U. Rodgers Health Center, the Center for Spirit at Work, and the KC-CWBO. They also volunteer for committee work and currently serve on the membership committee of the Asian American Chamber of Commerce of Kansas City.  On the latest edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Becky Wilson shared WDS Marketing and Public Relations’ origin story. She also talked about her passion for America’s Got Talent (AGT). Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is an honor and a privilege to welcome two-time Emmy-winning actor, producer, and writer Mike Manning to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.   Television audiences first met Mike when he joined the cast of MTV’s legendary Reality TV series, The Real World: D.C. After completing filming, he dove into the entertainment industry. He appeared on Crash & Bernstein, Hawaii Five-0, Major Crimes, Teen Wolf, The Haves and Have Nots, and This Is Us.  Daytime television fans know Mike from his work on the popular web soap opera The Bay (Caleb McKinnon), Days of Our Lives (Charlie Dale), and the groundbreaking CBS soap opera, Beyond the Gates, where he portrays investigative journalist Bradley “Smitty” Smith.  Mike also started Mannifest Productions to connect audiences with entertainment that matters by developing and producing films, TV, and new media projects that not only aim to change the world but also open hearts and minds through art. He began his producing career with the documentary Kidnapped for Christ alongside Tom DeSanto. The film won several awards before being shown on Showtime and was responsible for legislation in California and other states to protect children from abuse at “camps for troubled youth.”  He also produced Jinn, Son of the South, M.F.A., and Folk Hero & Funny Guy.  His homeless youth documentary Lost in America, starred Oscar-winning actress Halle Berry, Grammy-winning songstress Jewel, Rosario Dawson, and Tiffany Haddish. Meanwhile, The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson, directed by Oscar-nominated David France, was released as a Netflix Original after premiering at the Tribeca Film Festival.  Outside of the entertainment industry, Mike works with nonprofits that advocate for the poor, the environment, and equal rights. In 2010, Mike Manning lobbied Congress in Washington, D.C., on behalf of the Human Rights Campaign. Since then, he has received proclamations from the New York City Council in recognition of his cause-related work.  On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Mike Manning spoke about why he chose acting over The Challenge, being a part of the Beyond the Gates family, and several Mannifest Productions, including The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson and Lost in America. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

Happy Halloween, everyone!   For the first time (and in podcasting history), I will be entering the Pokémon world! All thanks to my friend, Marcus J. Anthony (Elite MJ)!   Marcus has written a phenomenal fan fiction series, Pokémon: Next Generation. The series is set ten years after Ash Ketchum won the Pokémon World Championships.  Inspired by Ash Ketchum, Johto native Marc Masters is on his own journey in the home region of his hero.  Together with his friends Rachel and Anthony, they are currently traveling across Kanto with unique goals.  Along the way, Marc has won four gym badges from Forrest (Brock’s youngest brother), Rain (Misty’s cousin), Sgt. Sara (Lt. Surge’s daughter), and Skorcha (Blaine’s grandfather).  In addition to earning gym badges, Marc uncovered a threat that could destroy the Pokémon world: this threat’s name is Mew-Z.  This Pokémon is unlike any creature that inhabits this world; it is pure evil. This monstrosity was the brainchild of Team Rocket leader Giovanni and brought to life by the sinister Dr. Yung and Evice, using genes from Mew, Mewtwo, Zygarde, and unknown factors.  While it is powerful, Mew-Z has not reached its final form.    According to Looker, for Mew-Z to reach its full potential, it must absorb both Mew and Mewtwo in one hour. The creature has begun hunting down mythical and legendary Pokémon, as well as Zygarde cells, to boost its power. Both Jirachi and Tapu Koko have fallen victim to this monstrosity.  He is also growing a following and assisting him with his misdeeds are Evice and a mysterious, red-haired woman named Commander, who kidnapped both Ash Ketchum and Pikachu at the series’ beginning.  For the first time, Mew-Z broke its silence and is the guest on the 2025 Halloween episode. But how did I get to the Pokémon world? Did I survive my podcast conversation with Mew-Z? Listen to find out!   I want to thank Marcus J. Anthony for voicing Mew-Z and, most importantly, animating this whole episode. Also, shout out to Addison and Kohi for providing the voices of Commander and Evice, respectively. 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 author and journalist Katie Bain to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.  For over 15 years, Katie has covered the global dance and electronic music world scene. Her work has appeared in The Guardian, VICE, RBMA, L.A. Weekly, Flaunt, and many other publications.   She is currently the director of dance and electronic coverage and senior music correspondent at Billboard. Katie wrote more than a dozen cover stories on recording artists, including Justice, Justin Bieber, Peggy Gou, Swedish House Mafia, and the Weeknd. She also reported stories from 13 countries and has done countless interviews with musicians, both legendary and rising. In 2016, Katie received a Cosmic Sister grant to report on traditional plant medicines in the Peruvian Amazon, and earlier this year, she received the first-ever FEMME HOUSE award for music journalist of the year.  On October 21, The Quatro Group published her new book, Desert Dreams: The Music, Style, and Allure of Coachella. The coffee table book features over 150 iconic photographs and insights from music industry veterans. The book also discusses the festival’s fashion trends and viral looks, the legendary performances including Beychella and No Doubt, and iconic stories such as former it-couple Kristin Stewart and Robert Pattinson’s relationship, Harry Styles’ surprising team-up with Shania Twain, and the appearance of a hologram of Tupac Shakur.  On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Katie Bain spoke about her work at The Guardian, L.A. Weekly, and VICE; her high-profile features with Justin Bieber and the Weeknd; and Desert Dreams: The Music, Style, and Allure of Coachella’s writing process.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.