ConversationsRadio

(8/18/2021) Award-Winning actress Islie Hirvonen joined Mike and returning cohost, actress Ellee Jo Trowbridge on episode 106. Based in Vancouver, BC, Islie has built a stellar acting and voiceover resume’ and consistently books roles for tv and film. She is well known for her starring role as ‘Grace Gibbons’ in the CW series ‘The Flash’ and can be seen as ‘Cable’s daughter’ in the feature film Deadpool 2. She can also be seen as Madison in ‘Cooking With Love’ and Emma in ‘While You Were Dating’. You can also catch Islie on Fox TV’s ‘Wayward Pines’ and the tv series ‘Rush’.  As a voiceover artist, she has lent her talents to numerous projects for film and tv. Credits include ‘Pup Academy’, ‘Llama Llama’, ‘Nina’s World’, ‘The Willoughby’s’ and Pixar’s animated feature ‘Soul.' Islie is a ‘Joey’ award-winner and has been nominated for multiple awards including a recent Young Artists Academy nomination for her role as Emma in the Hallmark tv movie ‘Christmas With The Darlings.’ Enjoy the Podcast!

On 7/26/17, writer/producer Rockne O'Bannon joined Mike Dowler and co-host actor Mateus Ward to chat about his success with Farscape, Revolution, Cult, Defiance and V. O'Bannon's. sold his first screenpay to Amazing Stories (NBC) and went on to write for CBS' The Twilight Zone. Rockne also created Alien Nation and the spinoff TV show and he continues to write and produce today.

2/19/2020 Episode 66, Mike and returning cohost Isabella Blake-Thomas chatted with actress/musician Nikki Hahn and her father and mentor, Tyson Hahn. Known for her roles in 'Adventures in Babysitting' as well as her early roles in American Horror Story:  Asylum and her latest recurring role as Gina Tuscadero on ABC's 'American Housewife' - Nikki has worked with the best of the best - sharing the spotlight with A-listers Tom Hanks, Ron Howard, Geoffrey Rush, Jessica Lange, Lilly Rabe and more Originally from San Antonio, Texas, Nikki Hahn came to Los Angeles at when she was two. She found success early in print modeling and soon became a working actress booking national ad campaigns for major brands. As a singer and musician, Nikki has been showcasing her music at venues across Southern California. Tyson Hahn is Nikki's mentor and encourages her on her music journey and often called upon to play backup guitar for her. Tyson began studying guitar, music theory and composition in college. He received his Bachelors of Music from UTSA. He has won multiple guitar competitions and played showcases as a classical guitarist in Texas and Mexico. He has also composed and arranged instrumental music for independent films, live theater pieces, bands, and chamber ensembles. This was an amazing conversation! Be sure and check out Nikki's new single 'In My Head' available on download platforms everywhere and her homepage - www.nikkihahn.com Be sure and check out our website and all of our podcasts atwww.conversationspod.wix.com/conversations      

1/22/2020 - Mike and cohost, actress Sarah Elizabeth Withers featured actress and stunt double Jessie Giacomazzi on ConversationsRadio Ep.37! Known for her work on 'Westworld' 'Anabelle:  Creation' 'Captain Marvel' and more, Jessie recently starred opposite Bill Hader as Lily Proxin (aka feral Mongoose) on episode #5 of HBO's 'Barry'  Jessie gave us the 411 on her work on 'Barry' and her previous stellar work both as an actress and stunt double. Her parents, Mickey & Marilyn Giacomazzi are both well estabished in the stunt community and have encouraged Jessie on this journey. A fantastic conversations with a rising star! Enjoy!  

ConversationsRadio is thrilled to welcome back award-winning actress Ava Cantrell. She joined Mike and cohost, actress Abby Donnelly (Malibu Rescue) on 6/26/19 for episode 48. Ava is a returning guest on Conversations. Since her breakthrough role as Penelope Pritchard on Nickelodeon's Haunted Hathaways, Ava has continued to book stellar roles both on film and tv. Her versatility as an actress is unique and has captured the attention of many. In 2016 Ava played ‘Teen Diana’ the antagonist in the feature film Lights Out. Ava also starred as ‘Amelia Voss’ opposite Gene Farber and Pooja Batra in the indie sci-fi feature One Under the Sun (2016). Ava is also known for The Passing , Cam Girls and Above the 101 and will be seen in the feature film Abigail in 2020. Ava Cantrell’s successes have been many and she continues to blaze a trail as an actress, producer, writer and content creator. Ava is actively involved with many charitable organizations like the LA Mission and Paw Works. She loves surfing the waters in her hometown of San Diego! Be sure and checkout our website and all of our podcasts at  www.conversationspod.wix.com/conversations

9/19/18, Mike Dowler and co-host, actress Casey Burke were thrilled to welcome back Savannah Liles. This award winning-actress previously joined us back in November, 2017 for Conversations Episode 8. At just 12 years-old, Savannah has worked hard for her success. Her resume' of projects includes American Horror Story, Henry Danger, Just Jacques, a number of commercials and stage productions. Savannah recently traveled to Europe for a two-month vacation – visiting nine countries. She shared some fond memories and wonderful stories about her journey.   Savannah stars as 'Ellie' in the award-winning film ‘Prodigy’. Released in March, 2018, the film has received multiple nods at film festivals everywhere. 'Prodigy' is currently streaming on Netflix!

Friday, July 27Th, 2018, actress Taylor Hay joined Mike Dowler and cohost, actress Gemma Forbes for Conversations Ep. 23! She’s appeared in numerous web and television projects and several feature films. A cancer diagnosis sidelined Taylor at the age of nine. Everything came to a halt. Once she regained her health, Taylor jumped back in,  excited to be healthy and acting once again. In no time at all, Taylor booked her first voiceover role in the Animated feature ’Yes, Virginia.’ She continued to hone her craft and was cast as ‘Quinn Reynolds’ – the lead role in YouTube’s Original Series, ‘Strings’ then went on to book two network shows.   Next Up, Taylor will star as Vera Castor in the feature film ‘To Avenge’ alongside Zach Galligan, Kelli Maroney, Brooke Lewis, and Lauren Francesca. Shooting will begin in 2019 on the East Coast.   An 8-year cancer survivor, Taylor Hay gives back in a big way. In addition to the many non-profits she supports, she’s the founder and host of ‘Star for a Night’ - an event to celebrate the lives of youth facing life-threatening illnesses. The bi-annual event is a charity fundraiser, supporting a variety of charities dedicated to helping children in need. This year's event happens Novemember 3, 2018 in Los Angeles. Visit https://www.starforanight.org/ to learn more about this event and how you can help.

10/15/2025 Mike and cohost - actress Kayden Tokarski welcomed Actress Presley Richardson to ConversationsRadio Ep.209. Presley Richardson is a rising teen actress most known for her role as Christine on Disney’s Pretty Freekin Scary where her humor and charm quickly made her a fan favorite. Presley has honed her acting craft and her hard work and commitment is reflected in numerous projects including her starring role as ‘Olvia’ in Madison Wolfe’s short film Acorn, Iowa. Equally impressive is Presley’s role as ‘Bennett’ - fighting with rival children to take control of an abandoned theme park after a virus kills all of earths adults ‘The Park’ – written and directed by Shal Ngo. With a natural ability to bring authenticity and emotional depth to her performances, Presley delivers command performances in heartfelt, character-driven stories. In Presley’s latest film ‘Casey Makes a Mixtape’ she plays the lead character ‘Casey’ In this nostalgic coming-of-age feature set in 1980s Texas, before MP3s when cassette tapes were the norm and you had to record your own mix of your favorite music. Filmed entirely in Texas, it’s described as a love letter to small-town summers, mixtapes, and messy growing pains. Casey Makes a Mixtape is available on Amazon, AppleTV, Fandango, YouTube and GooglePlay! View Trailer  Presley Richardson has caught the attention of many. She continues to impress audiences and filmmakers alike with her charisma, versatility, and professionalism. Beyond acting, Presley is passionate about music and storytelling, influences that guide her creative journey as her career continues to grow. She is one to keep on your radar. Follow Presley on Instagram @presley_richardson Enjoy the Podcast!    

10/1/2025 Mike and cohost, Callie Walker welcomed back Canadian actress Madison Brydges to ConversationsRadio! Maddie is a Canadian born actor best known for her role as ‘Paige’ on the Netflix series My Life with the Walter Boys. Madison has been recognized and achieved a Young Artist Award, Young Entertainers Award and a Joey Award for her role as Jo in Love You Like Christmas. In addition to her awards, she has received both a Young Artist Award and Joey Award nomination for her roles in Murdoch Mysteries, Flatliners and Numbers, as well as a Joey Award nomination for her music video Walk the Walk . ​Her early work includes her role as ‘April’ on the Canadian TVOKids series Big Top Academy & Big Top Academy:  School’s Out Edition. Maddie recurred as ‘Vanessa’ in The Hardy Boys series on Hulu. Maddie also appears as ‘Ricklynn’ in The TV sitcom The Parker Andersons. Madison is an award-winning competitive dancer in both Canada and the USA and has received numerous accolades in all genres of dance. ​Always having the love and passion for performance, dance and theatre, Madison is quickly becoming known for the characters she brings to life. Whether lending dramatic authenticity or a natural comedic flair to her roles, she graces the screen and stage with remarkable range and an original captivating style. Follow Madison on Instagram @madisonbrydges Enjoy the Podcast!    

9/17/2025 Mike and cohost, Actress Lexi Janicek welcome back Chicago based actress Stella Grace Fitzgerald. Stella booked her first TV role in 2021 as Becca Clarton - a young girl from a troubled family on NBC's 'Chicago PD .' In early summer of 2022, she was cast as Kassie Hughes - the daughter of a factory worker in' The Dancing Monkey,' directed by Chandler Wild. This feature film, scheduled to be released this summer, is an adaptation of the classic play ‘The Hairy Ape’ by Eugene O'Neill. Stella Grace's is well known for the role of ‘Princess Issa’ in the Netflix 2-part epic space opera 'Rebel Moon,' directed by Zack Snyder. Prior to that role, she was a guest star on Peacock's 'Mrs. Davis' playing a young Betty Gilpin.​ New projects are on the way. Coming September 27th, Stella will play a young 'Courtney Stodden' in the Lifetime movie 'I Was a Child Bride: The Courtney Stodden Story' and look for Stella starring opposite Nate Bargatze and Mandy Moore in 'The Breadwinner' coming to theaters in March, 2026. In addition to her work on TV/Film, Stella has appeared in numerous commercials and has modeled for several clothing brands. When she's not auditioning or modeling, she sings and plays guitar in a pop rock band and is playing flag football. We had a blast catching up with Stella. You can follow Stella on Instagram @stellagracefitzgerald Enjoy the Podcast!    

8/27/2025 Mike and cohost, actress Kayden Tokarski chatted with actress Kariana Karhu on ConversationsRadio Ep.206. Kariana stars as young 'Lauren Lane'  - opposite Sophie Turner in 'TRUST' - now in theaters! Kariana is an American film and television actress. After enjoying early success in commercials with many well-known brands, including a Super Bowl commercial with Children's Health, she seamlessly transitioned to supporting roles in several full-length feature films.  At the age of seven, she booked the pivotal role of Lily Nill in Amazon Prime's 2021 original series 'Panic' - appearing in nine of the ten episodes. In 2023, she starred in the title role of Hope in a short film 'Hope' that won her several best acting awards in the film festival circuit, including a Special Jury award of Outstanding Acting Achievement. Kariana most recently wrapped filming Bethesda, an upcoming thriller directed by the multi-talented Lewis brothers and starring an ensemble cast to include Max Martini, Brianna Hildebrand, James Landry Hebert and Drew Van Acker. Bethesda is set to be released sometime in 2026. Known for her innate ability to bring characters to life in compelling and charismatic ways, along with her talent for enhancing a role while working within both scripted and improvised dialogue that, as others in the industry have said, brings more to the table with her performances, Kariana is establishing herself as a standout actress and one to watch as she continues to develop complex and creative characters in the roles she takes on.  She’s tested for series regular roles with Disney Branded Television two times in the last year. Follow Kariana on Instgagram @KarianaKarhu Enjoy the Podcast!

8/13/2025 Joining Mike and cohost, actress Callie Walker - it's Memphis-based music duo ‘Isabella&Sebastian’ Isabella DeFir and Sebastian Stephens return to CoversationsRadio for Ep.205! Together, Isabella&Sebastian write, record and co-produce their own original music. It’s a successful collaboration that works - featuring what’s described as a “hook-filled retro vibe with a forward-looking feel.” Their humor and stage presence combine to deliver an original fresh take representing the best of indie pop. Isabella&Sebastian’s just released their first album 'Is Anybody Listenting' and we look forward to debuting their new music. Isabella&Sebastian music is available on your favorite download platform and on their hompage Follow Isabella&Sebastian on Instagram @isabellasebastianofficial Enjoy the podcast!  

7/30/2025 Actress/dancer/singer Kinley Cunningham joined Mike and cohost actress Zoe Bernard on ConversationsRadio Ep.204 Kinley stars as 'Kombucha' - a series regular on Nickelodeon's 'The Thundermans Undercover.' Kinley's showbiz career began with dance training in 2018. She quickly started to make a name for herself on the LA dance scene as well as the competition circuit, receiving her first two national titles in the Summer of 2020 at the age of 9. When the Covid-19 pandemic hit, like everyone else, Kinley started taking classes from home, and her parents recognizing her talent started posting the combos on Instagram. She was prolific, posting a new dance every day for months. Her high energy videos started to go viral, quickly growing an audience. KInley decided early on that she wanted to do it all - Not just dance, but she also wanted to act and sing. She signed with a talent agent soon after and started going on auditions.  Kinley continues to hone her skills as an actress and dancer grateful for her success.  In 2024, she released her debut music single and video 'Heart Beats' and has new projects in the works. Thanks to Kinley Cunningham for taking time out to join us on ConversationsRadio! You can follow Kinley on Instagram @Kinleyfullout Enjoy the Podcast  

7/23/25 Mike and cohost, actress Kayden Tokarski featured Ireland Lily Briody on Ep.203. Originally from Detroit, Micigan, Ireland has come a long way in such a short time. At just 6-years-old, Ireland booked her first commercial. Multiple bookings soon followed. In the last 6 years, Ireland has also appeared in over 20 Commercial – including brands such as Spectrum, Mattel, Shopify, Got2Glow and more. Since moving to LA a few years ago, Ireland has worked nonstop! In 2021, Ireland landed a starring role in the award-winning short film ‘New Beginnings’ and appeared with Alfonso Ribeiro in a Ryan Reynolds produced skit in ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live in Front of a Studio Audience’ special. In 2022, she booked an episode of ABC’s ‘Abbott Elementary’ and co-starred as ‘Ruby’ in the Lifetime movie ‘Nanny Dearest’ in 2023. Ireland loves the camera and she grabbed the attention of agents and talent scouts early on. Since moving to California, Ireland has projects in the works and continues to hone her craft. When she’s not in front of a camera, Ireland love spending time at the beach or pool. She enjoys panting and playing Minecraft with friends/family from around the country. Her favorite subjects in school are Math and Theatre. Check out Ireland's homepage https://www.irelandbriody.com Follow Ireland on Instagram @irelandlilyb Enjoy the Podcast!

2/18/2025 Brynn Cummings - Ventriloquist and Magician returns, joining Mike and cohosts Kayden Tokarski and Callie Walker on ConversationsRadio for Episode 202! Brynn is a talented 14-year-old who has been enchanting audiences with her magic and ventriloquism since the age of 8. Her exceptional abilities have propelled her to great heights in the world of performance arts. In 2023, Brynn placed in the Top 5 in the Semi Finals on NBC's America’s Got Talent season 18. She last joined us back in 2023 on Ep.152. Brynn Cummings is an award-winner! She took 1st place at the prestigious 82nd Annual Abbott's Magic Get Together, a renowned magic convention held in Colon, Michigan. Building on her success, Brynn triumphed once again in 2022, claiming the top spot in the Junior Open Mic at VentHaven - an annual ventriloquist convention. Her extraordinary talents have not gone unnoticed, and at 10, she was invited to deliver a captivating TedTalk and showcased her skills on the esteemed Penn and Teller:  ‘Try This At Home Too' television program. Brynn Cummings continues to inspire and captivate audiences with mesmerizing performances, leaving an unforgettable mark on the world of magic and ventriloquism. We want to thank Brynn for taking time out to join us to catch up. Check out Brynn's homepage www.brynncummings.com Follow on Instagram @brynnocummings Enjoy the Podcast! Brynn is a talented 14-year-old who has been enchanting audiences with her magic and ventriloquism since the age of 8. Her exceptional abilities have propelled her to great heights in the world of performance arts. In 2023, Brynn placed in the Top 5 in the Semi Finals on NBC's America’s Got Talent season 18. Brynn is a talented 14-year-old who has been enchanting audiences with her magic and ventriloquism since the age of 8. Her exceptional abilities have propelled her to great heights in the world of performance arts. In 2023, Brynn placed in the Top 5 in the Semi Finals on NBC's America’s Got Talent season 18.

6/5/2025 Episode 201 - NYC actress Gigi Grace joined Mike and cohost, actress Violet Tinnirello on ConversationsRadio! Gigi can be seen in episodes of drama series 'The Better Sister' recurring as a young 'Nicky Taylor' - streaming on Prime Video.  Based in New York and Rhode Island, Gigi is an actress, singer and dancer. Her love of the performing arts began early. At just 6-years, Gigi began her journey performing in musical theatre produtions. It soon became apparent that acting was a path she wanted to follow and has since built a stellar resume' which includes numerous short films, on-stage productions and an Off-Broadway Shakespearian production too. Gigi has stage reading credits as well. In addtion to her work on 'The Better Sister' she portays a soccer girl on S1-E2 of  'Lioness' (Paramount+) and 'Catherine #1' in ep.1 of 'Fleishman is in Trouble' (Hulu) Splitting her time between New York and Rhode Island, Gigi is consistantly honeing her craft. She sings, plays guitar, songwrites, swims, practices mixed martial arts. she is a professional-level dancer. She is a member of the National Honors Society and attends an accredited online school. In her spare moments, Gigi can be found listening to vinyl; watching films/series; writing and playing music; going to live concerts/theater; reading books; and traveling. Gigi is an avid music fan. Creating art is her passion. Follow Gigi on Instagram @_gigigrace_ Enjoy the podcast!

5/21/2025 Actor Jake Getman It’s Episode 200! A very special episode! Mike and ConversationsRadio Alumni cohosts Joey Vieira, Simone Lockhart, Mia Bella, Violet Tinnirello, Kensington Tallman and Callie Walker welcomed actor Jake Getman for our 200th episode. Jake is currently featured in a national Apple commercial (Apple Intelligence – “Big Flex Son”) and voices a character in the new streaming podcast Montecito, now available on YouTube and all podcast platforms. He was also recently cast in a supporting role in Rush Week, an upcoming independent horror feature currently in development. His credits include Cheaper by the Dozen on Disney+, Just Roll With It on Disney Channel, American Dad! on TBS & Hulu, Cars 3 As Told By LEGO Bricks for Disney Consumer Products (with over 365+ million views on YouTube), and a voiceover role as Flounder from The Little Mermaid for a Disney project recorded pre-COVID. Jake recently co-created, co-produced, and starred in FLAGGED, a thriller/suspense ensemble short film made for the 2025 Easterseals Disability Film Challenge. The film’s post-production sound was mixed at Waterman Sound Studio by owner Joe Schultz — a full-circle moment for Jake, who had previously recorded there for Pixar’s animated feature Elio. Schultz generously donated his time and studio to support the project, spending nine hours with Jake, the film’s editor, and producer on the final sound mix. This episode was a blast. It was an honor to have Jake Getman with us for this epic celebration. You can follow Jake on Instagram @jakegetman Thanks everyone for supporting ConversationsRadio. Enjoy this episode!

4/30/2025 Mike, and cohosts, actors Kayden Tokarski and Romyn Smith sat down with award-winning Director, Producer & Cinematographer Rick Bakewell on episode 199. Rick has spent the last 20 years working as a Director, Producer, and Director of Photography for commercials, branded content, narrative films, corporate, music videos, and documentaries. Recently, Bakewell is the Writer and Director of the movie 'Rroswell Delirium' - which has gone on to win more than 100 awards. It's availabe on AppleTV, Amazon Prime.     He is known for a number of projects for LightForcePictures - A production company he founded in 2004. Rick and his Production Team have received over 126 Awards commending their work in Film & Television. A member of the Producers Guild, IATSE, DSC, IDA, Society of Camera Operators, & The Television Academy Rick Bakewell recently filmed and is currently co-producing 'Life After The Goonies' and Life After Grease. Most recently, Bakewell had the honor of  filming the launch of the Blue Origin Rocket which carrried an all female crew into space.   Follow Rick on Instagram @RickBakewell   Enjoy the Podcast!

4/10/2025 Mike and cohost, Wheel of Fortune announcer Jim Thornton welcomed Bruce Scott on ConversationsRadio. With a career spanning some 30 years, Bruce is a familiar voice heard in both Southern California and the Bay Area. From 2012 to 2025, Bruce was the afternoon host on KOST 103.5 FM in Southern California and then moved north to the Bay Area and did morningson KBAY 94.5 FM in San Jose. Bruce worked a couple of jobs outside of radio but eventually made it back to Southern California and in March, 2025 joined the on-air staff at Go Country 105 FM. You can catch him weekday morning on LA's only country music station. Thrilled to be back on LA radio, Bruce is settling in and is excited about this new chapter in his life and career. Mike and Jim enjoyed chatting with him about his new radio gig, his return to Southern California and everything in between. He is also a drummer and played in a band up north. Catch Bruce Scott weekdays mornings on LA's only country radio station Go Country 105 FM Enjoy the Podcast!

(3/26/2025) Actress Emma Rose Smith joined Mike and cohost, actress Kayden Tokarski on ConversationsRadio Ep.197! Best known for her recurring role as 'Florie' on AMC’s Mayfair Witches, Emma Rose has recurred as Sophie 'Atwater' on Max's The Pitt and a supporting role as 'Mackenzie Porter' in Lifetime's The Lies We Bury. Emma also appeared in UpTv’s Something’s Brewing, in the feature film The Road to Galena, and in numerous commercials. She is a two-time ‘Best Child Actress’ award winner for her lead role in the film The Game. Emma is also a singer/dancer who has performed in over 12 musicals. Follow Emma Rose on Instagram @emmarosesmith11 Enjoy the Podcast!