The Off The Wall Improv Comedy Group has been entertaining audiences for 50 years! Blossoming, in 1975 out of a dance studio next to a West Hollywood hamburger stand, the group has worked with Robin Williams, John Ritter, George Wendt, Chevy Chase, Garry Shandling, and Jim Belushi, with Michael Feinstein at the piano! Original members, Andy Goldberg, Wendy Cutler, and Paul Willson join us to share their unique history and regale us with backstage lore and intrigue. These three became go-to Hollywood players, appearing on Laverne and Shirley, Mork and Mindy, The Golden Girls, Cheers, Hill Street Blues, The Larry Sanders Show, Columbo and so many more! Their improv gifts also suit them perfectly for looping sessions where they fill in the background voices in TV and movie scenes. Listen carefully and you will hear them in Meet The Parents, Monster’s Ball, The X Files, Justice League, and How To Train Your Dragon. Paul, Wendy and Andy take us through the proud history of improv comedy which was born out of theater games taught to children, and has gone on to train and launch countless stellar careers. Plus, Andrew Jameson joins us to talk about his doc series, Faces Of The City which is now streaming on Roku.And in current media -- Weezy: The Runarounds on PrimeFritz: Task on HBO Path Points of Interest:The Runarounds TrailerTask - HBOFaces of the CityOff The WallOff The Wall on YoutubeImprov Comedy by Andy Goldberg Off The Wall on FacebookFanatic Salon Theater
We welcome Moosie Drier, one of the most familiar young faces of 70s and 80s TV and film! Moosie takes us back to a time when child actors were a tight crew who worked and auditioned for roles together, forging friendships, supportive rivalries and shared memories.Alongside fellow child actors like Lance Kerwin, Brad Savage, Ike Eisenmann, and Matthew Layborteaux, Moosie carved out a place in show biz history, beginning with his very first job at age five: dubbing the voice of a tiny actor who was not quite nailing the line in an ice cream commercial. Armed with that professional gravitas, Moosie went on to play Jack Lemmon’s step-son in The War Between Men and Women and John Denver’s kid in Oh, God! starring George Burns. He then delivered the Kid News For Kids on Laugh-In (as young staff writer Lorne Michaels tucked away the whole fake news idea for what would become Weekend Update!)Moosie spills tea on working with Henry Fonda (Hank liked the View-Master. Hated the kids.) Moosie shares how Barbra Streisand hand picked him for a bit part in Up The Sandbox, and evidently, Moosie is gifted with a face you’d want to serenade. Both John Denver and Reba McEntire picked up guitars and sang to him between scenes.Plus we get some Drier family lore. How his family struck out from Chicago for California in search of industry opportunities. About the tax hole that welcomed Moosie into adulting. And the strange baby name saga that resulted in a boy named “Moosie.” Today, Moosie continues to connect with his peers through his podcast Pop Culture Retro, where conversations are a blend of interviews, fellow child-actor therapy and catching up over lunch.All that, plus a round of IMDB Roulette which takes us from Kids Incorporated to Family Ties to Judy Garland to The Bob Newhart Show to American Hot Wax! It’s a life and career chock full of charm, challenges, and timeless Hollywood moments.And in current media -- Weezy: Sullivan's Crossing on NetflixFritz: The Mark Twain book by Ron ChernowPath Points of Interest:Moosie Drier on WikipediaMoosie Drier on IMDBMoosie Drier on InstagramPop Culture Retro on Apple PodcastsPop Culture Retro on InstagramPop Culture Retro on XPop Culture Retro on YouTubeSullivan's CrossingMark Twain by Ron ChernowMedia PathMedia Path on FacebookMedia Path on InstagramMedia Path on XMedia Path on Bluesky
What happens when a big time movie star gets popped for speeding while rolling through Mayberry? He just may learn the value of connection and community, that’s what!Mayberry Man… first a movie, then a series… was inspired by the reverent fervor that is the annual Mayberry Days Festival which takes place annually in Andy Griffith’s hometown of Mount Airy, North Carolina. Producer Gregory Schell and Writer/Director Stark Howell are both second generation Mayberry progeny and their experiences at the festival inspired them to crate the Mayberry Man franchise.Greg and Stark both have dads who made two Andy Griffith Show appearances, Hoke Howell and Ronnie Schell. Ronnie then went on to co-star with Mayberry’s own Gomer Pyle on Gomer Pyle USMC.Greg and Stark join us in-studio to help us welcome Zoom guests, Allan Newsome who plays the Floyd the Barber re-enactor and Chris Bauman, who brings Gomer to life. They share their histories of falling in love with those characters, stepping into their shoes and clothing, meeting festival fans and now sharing their portrayals onscreen in Mayberry Man.Stark’s Dad Hoke was besties with Rance Howard. Together, they pursued their acting and writing careers while Rance’s kids Ron and Clint played little league and created early films with the Howell boys.Stark’s brother, producer Cort Howell, shares how he used crowdfunding, targeted marketing and fan community building to bring Mayberry Man to life. Plus, Greg reflects on growing up in the shadow of an actor/comedian father and Stark shares his earliest screen role, co-starring with Clint Howard, in a 14-year-old Ron Howard’s third Super 8 film classic, Cards, Cads, Guns, Gore & Death.And in current media, Weezy enlightens Fritz as to the internet outrage regarding Big Brother's Rylie and Katharine showmance and Fritz shares his enthusiasm for the new Spike Lee 'joint' Highest 2 Lowest, now in theatersPath Points of Interest:Mayberry Manhttps://www.amazon.com/Mayberry-Man-Brett-Varvel/dp/B0B8NNSYR9https://www.mayberryman.com/home-zMayberry Man The Serieshttps://www.primevideo.com/detail/Mayberry-Man-The-Series/0OW0MU66B6JJM52GUUWO3CQQ8Khttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt24222046/?ref_=nm_ov_bio_lkGregory Schell on InstagramStark Howell on IMDBCort HowellAllan NewsomeTwo Chairs No Waiting PodcastChris Bauman Big BrotherHighest 2 LowestMedia Path PodcastMedia Path on FacebookMedia Path on InstagramMedia Path on XMedia Path on BlueskyLouise Palanker on TiktokFritz Coleman on Tiktok
For 33 1/3 years, Paul Rappaport made history as a rock promotions kingpin at Columbia Records, shaping pathways for the biggest artists of the ’70s, 80s and ’90s to find their audience. Paul has penned 'Gliders Over Hollywood: Airships, Airplay, and the Art of Rock Promotion', a memoir that captures the creative fun and the rich, human connection at the heart of the record business in its golden era.Paul shares stories of big-budget, wildly innovative stunts, like painting a radio station pink for Pink Floyd, sending a terrifying “alien invasion like” laser beam across Los Angeles skies for Blue Oyster Cult and jumping through every station relationship hoop to land Mick Jagger, out of the box, at number one on the charts! Paul reports that in the records and radio world, it was friendships and reciprocity that made the engines hum.Paul shares stories of his heart-to-hearts with Bob Dylan, Billy Joel, Bruce Springsteen, and Mick Jagger and of his one-of-a-king thank you gift from Pink Floyd… an opportunity to join them on stage in London to shred and trade guitar licks with David Gilmour on Run Like Hell!With a deep reverence for music and the artists who shaped his world view, Paul reflects on the chance he was given to be a part of the effort alongside his boyhood heroes and to help them share their work with the world.Music is ever-evolving and to get radio stations on board with new sounds, Paul would often grab everyone from neighborhood radio stations and record stores and personally initiate them to the glory that is Billy Joel or Bruce Springsteen live and in concert. It worked! He arranged one-on-one interviews, including the time Philadelphia radio personality Helen Leicht looked into the eyes of Paul McCartney and broke into tears. Sir Paul jumped up and pulled her into a hug. Beatles up close are sob inducing. He gets it.Co-host Weezy, also a radio/records veteran, talks shop with Paul, remembering warmly the kooky and collaborative crusade to celebrate and share the music. They also discuss the future of terrestrial radio. Is there one?In our current media segment, Fritz and Weezy discuss The Law According To Lidia Poet and Titans: The Rise of Hollywood, both on Netflix.Path Points of Interest:Gliders Over HollywoodPaul Rappaport on FacebookThe Law According To Lidia Poet on NetflixTitans: The Rise of Hollywood on NetflixMedia PathMedia Path on FacebookMedia Path on InstagramMedia Path on XMedia Path on BlueskyHelen Leicht Interviews Sir Paul McCartney On WXPN - 8/29/13
We stand in gratitude to Bruce Vilanch for Peak Hollywood’s most treasured and iconic entertainment history moments. Bruce is an EGOT Award Show Writer and he’s penned warehouses and server farms full of TV Variety shows and specials with lingering legacies. As infamous Youtube gems were mined, during lockdown, by intrepid Millennial podcasters, Bruce bravely opened wounds to spill toxic details.Yes, we are talking Star Wars Holiday & Paul Lynde Halloween Specials. The hot tea is on tap in Bruce’s new book, It Seemed Like A Bad Idea At The Time.As a child, Bruce was not just your garden variety funny fat kid. His mother recognized his unique potential and submitted young Bruce as a Lane Bryant Charming Chub print model. His journalism career took off at summer camp where Bruce successfully avoided outdoor activities by writing a popular and dishy camp newspaper. During college he went pro as a cub reporter for The Chicago Tribune, watching the films Gene Siskel elected to skip. A review of Bette Midler’s cabaret show led to a collaborative lifelong friendship.The pattern has continued with Whoopi Goldberg, Billy Crystal, Dolly Parton and beyond. Bruce’s comedic charms are so potent, he can take stinkers like Can’t Stop The Music and Ice Pirates (featuring Bruce as a court jesting body-less head) and churn hilarity. Wherever the comedy leaned towards tragedy, Bruce mined the gold that is his new book.Bruce also tells us how Donny Osmond’s pull with Mormon elders got a Utah affiliate to broadcast Bette Midler’s HBO special. Bruce then boldly addresses the Jo Koy Golden Globes fiasco. He imparts the famous legend of Beethoven (the dog’s) Oscar movement, and tells of his daring journey in search of a look at Milton Berle’s alleged equipment.But, Bruce’s glories will not be outshined by his duds because we are ringing in a round of IMDB Roulette in which we celebrate: Ray Charles, Dolly Parton Elizabeth Taylor and The Constitution! Plus, Bruce hints at an upcoming special with Whoopi Goldberg!In recommendations --Weezy: Shiny Happy People: A Teenage Holy War on PrimeFritz: The Documentary, Billy Joel: And So It Goes on HBO MaxPath Points of Interest:It Seemed Like A Bad Idea At The Time: The Worst TV Shows In History And Other Things I Wrote by Bruce VilanchBruce Vilanch on WikipediaBruce Vilanch on IMDBBruce Vilanch on FacebookWe Got Bruce - Fan SiteStar Wars Holiday SpecialPaul Lynde Halloween SpecialBrady Bunch Variety Hour - First EpisodeShiny Happy People - Season 2 - Teenage Holy WarBilly Joel And So It GoesMedia PathMedia Path on FacebookMedia Path on InstagramMedia Path on XMedia Path on Bluesky
We’re joined by actress/singer/dancer Ann Jillian who takes us on an extraordinary journey which begins as her parents escape Soviet-Occupied Lithuania and continues into the Hollywood soundstages that launch Ann’s career as a child star in Gypsy and Babes in Toyland and then winds towards her adult career as a beloved Hollywood icon.Ann shares the powerful story of her family's flight across war-torn Europe on bicycles, aided by her mother’s multilingual savvy, which helped them dodge bullets and bombs and navigate a perilous path to safety. Settling in America was more than a fresh start, it was a dream realized. Ann recalls the deep pride her parents felt the day they became U.S. citizens and she reflects on her show biz beginnings, first in commercials (she was a Chevrolet girl!), then, playing Bo Peep in Babes in Toyland, leading to the stage name bestowed upon her by Mr. Walt Disney! and landing the role of Dainty June in Gypsy, where she gained an even deeper appreciation of her own mother who was NOT a Mama Rose. Ann tells us how education was valued for Disney child stars, she shares her mother’s wisdom on dealing with jealousies and she tells us about the treasured momento she received from her dear friend in Natalie Wood.She also discusses her battle with breast cancer, her triumphant return to work, the joy in becoming a mother and the fabulously funny and romantic 'how we met story' featuring herself and her husband of 50 years, Andy.And IMDB Roulette this week takes us on a journey around Mayfield, into the Twilight Zone and through a time when TV movies tackled important social issues.In recommendations --Fritz: Britbox Mini Series, OutrageousWeezy: Netflix Series, Son of a CritchPath Points of Interest:Ann Jillian on WikipediaAnn Jillian on IMDBAnn Jillian on Amazon OutrageousSon of a CritchMedia Path PodcastMedia Path on FacebookMedia Path on InstagramMedia Path on XMedia Path on Bluesky
We’re joined by award-winning Actor/Producer Blair Underwood and Director/Producer/Author Joe McClean to talk about their new novel, Sins of Survivors, written by Joe and presented by Blair. The book brings Black Bottom back to beautiful and sweeping life through the story of The Carter family. Fictional brothers Jasper and Ben whose heart wrenching journey brings them north to Detroit during the Great Migration. The Carters take root, raise families and bloom into neighborhood kingpins in a once vibrant, but redlined area that was bulldozed in the 1950s to put in a freeway.Joe unpacks how his deep research and a love of overlooked history shaped the Carter dynasty story in which two very different but fiercely loyal brothers face a shifting landscape and the rippling impact of their shared trauma on the next generation. Black Bottom, once a hub of Black resilience and ingenuity under strict and brutal segregation becomes the perfect backdrop for a sweeping saga of survival and criminal enterprise.Blair shares how he chooses which projects to champion, he reflects on his own remarkable career (L.A. Law, Gattaca, Deep Impact, Sex and the City), and shares his Obama related history! Joe ponders his personal approach when writing screenplays vs. novels and shares a powerful story connecting the haunting legacy of “Strange Fruit” to our current political moment.We also explore the hidden history of Detroit’s underworld, from its prohibition-era bootlegging routes to the layered decades of Black Bottom’s rise and fall under so-called “urban renewal.”Crime, family bonds and cultural touchstones coalesce in this tightly written work of fiction that reflects the real struggles of black experiences, painting a vivid portrait of a unique time and place in our shared American history.In recommendations--Weezy: Stick, Apple TV+ SeriesFritz: Movie, Sunday Best on NetflixPath Points of Interest:Sins of Survivors by Joe McClean and Blair UnderwoodSins of Survivors Audiobook PreviewJoe McClean on WikipediaJoe McClean on InstagramBlair Underwood on WikipediaBlair Underwood on IMDBBlair Underwood on InstagramStickSunday Best - NetflixMedia Path Podcast
Improv is so much more than hilarious. It’s a comedy writing tool, a key to unlocking our truest selves and a valuable collection of life lessons. Whose Line’s Colin Mochrie is here to enlighten and entertain!He starred in the British and American versions of Whose Line Is It Anyway for over 30 years while also making hundreds of TV, film and stage appearances. Colin is an author, an actor, a touring performer and an activist. His stage shows include Asking For Trouble with fellow Whose Liner Brad Sherwood, and Hyprov… a unique blend of hypnosis and improv with noted hypnotist, Asad Mecci. Joining us on the panel to learn from Colin is Chicago’s 13-year-old Lane Tech Improv Team Member Rowan Keel. His first question? “What do you do when you get a bad audience suggestion?” Colin is not stumped. We did, however, him a curve when we requested too much intel about his appearance in the first American Girl Doll movie, Kitt Kittredge in a rousing round of IMDB Roulette. But Colin was able to provide details about his time spent on the sets of: The Paul Anka Show, Goosebumps, The Drew Carey Show, The Tonight Show, Ted Lasso and his newest film, Magnetosphere! Plus, Colin shares improv wisdom as it applies to real life, his intriguing connection to Animutation and the powerful lessons he is learning from his trans daughter, Kinley. In recommendations--Weezy: Building The Band on NetflixFritz: Apple TV+ Documentary Series: The Long Way Home Path Points of Interest:The Long Way Home - Apple +Building The BandColin Mochrie on WikipediaColin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood - Asking For TroubleHyprov: Comedy Under HypnosisColin Mochrie on FacebookColin Mochrie on InstagramNot Quite The Classics by Colin MochrieMagnetosphereMagnetosphere Trailer
Can disinformation really take down a democracy from the inside? This week’s guest, Barbara McQuade, thinks so — and she’s here to show us exactly how it’s happening and what we can do about it.Barbara is a former U.S. Attorney, a law professor, an MSNBC legal analyst and the author of Attack From Within: How Disinformation Is Sabotaging America, now out in paperback.We begin with breaking news that could directly affect our political landscape. A big chunk of the MAGA faithful are suddenly side-eyeing Trump over his failure to drop the long-promised Epstein file (does the public have a right to see it? Barbara has thoughts). She breaks down how our American system relies on the good faith of three branches — and what happens when any one of them stops playing by the rules.Barbara explains the Squid Strategy: imagine a squid firing ink at a predator to obfuscate and slip away: that’s Trump making wild statements to change the subject when the heat is on. We talk about the liar’s dividend, that neat trick where so much fake news is swirling that important facts get waved away.She pulls back the curtain on how Trump built the coalition that resulted in the Big Harmful Bill. It consists of: a working-class MAGA base, the evangelical right, and billionaires. Trump does the bidding of big business while kissing up to Christian Extremists and feeding his base conspiracy theories that keep them eating their rage right out of his hand.Barbara does find hope in history: other countries have seen strongmen rise and fall when the promises ran dry and the citizens remained vigilant. She gives us her best advice for cracking Trump’s hold on friends and family (it involves empathetic listening, not doomscrolling).We also get into Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act — mend it, don’t end it — and why unregulated social media is the Wild West. We talk spon-con, paywalls, knowledge gaps, and how your news feed might be failing you.A cautionary tale, a civics lesson, and a pep talk all rolled into one, strap in, there’s still time to fight the ink cloud!In recommendations--Weezy: The series Outrageous on BritboxFritz: Apple TV+ Documentary, Bono: Stories of Surrender Path Points of Interest:Barbara McQuadeAttack From Within by Barbara McQuadeSisters-In-Law Podcastwith Barbara McQuade, Jill Wine Banks, Joyce Vance and Kimberly Atkins StohrBarbara McQuade on WikipediaBarbara McQuade on InstagramBarbara McQuade on XOutrageous on BritboxBono: Stories of Surrender on Apple TV+
Carol Leifer entered comedy when a woman stand-up was considered a novelty or a niche, but even then she knew "things would eventually change." And change has come, due in no small part to Carol's own stelar show biz contributions. Carol joins us this week to talk about her formative years, her early standup, giving voice to iconic characters like Elaine Benes and Deborah Vance, and her new book, How to Write a Funny Speech!Carol's relationship with her father, an optometrist with an ear for comedy and a quick wit that delighted both patients and family, laid the foundation for her career trajectory. Her supportive parents encouraged her to pursue stand-up when the opportunity struck, and very soon, she was right at home at The Improv and on The Tonight Show.Even within the male-dominated comedy space, Carol found herself buoyed by peers and colleagues, in the clubs and on the sets of seminal sitcoms such as Seinfeld, The Larry Sanders Show and Curb Your Enthusiasm.Carol’s Seinfeld contributions tapped into women’s lived experiences and brought us the skinny mirror, the marble rye and the nail salon, but she reveals which of Elaine's iconic storylines was not her brainchild - 'sponge-worthy' was actually coined by male writer, Peter Mehlman!Enjoy an exciting spin on your favorite podcast showbiz trivia game as we invite Carol to play IMDB Roulette: Writer's Edition, where she dives into the intricacies of writing for: Seinfeld, Curb, Hacks, SNL and Ellen, plus traveling the globe with Henry Winkler, George Foreman, Terry Bradshaw and William Shatner! (She now calls him Bill.)Carol also shares her SNL writing regrets. (If she could only have gotten in better with Lorne.) We talk about her latest runaway hit book How To Write a Funny Speech and close the show with Fritz's favorite new Carol Leifer joke!In recommendations -- Weezy: The HBO original, My Mom Jayne: A Film By Mariska HargitayFritz: Netflix documentary, Trainwreck: The Cult Of American ApparelCarol LeiferHow To Write A Funny Speech: for a Wedding, Bar Mitzvah, Graduation & Every Other Event You Didn't Want to Go to in the First Place by Carol Leifer and Rick MitchellCarol Leifer on WikiCarol Leifer on InstagramCarol Leifer on FacebookCarol Leifer Amazon Author PageMy Mom Jayne from Mariska HargitayTrainwreck: The Cult Of American ApparelMedia Path PodcastMedia Path on Buy Me a Coffee
Our guests exemplify the power of passion, mastery and skill blending in creating a lasting legacy. We begin with the co-authors of The Creative Leader: What Every Leader Should Know About The Art & Science of Creative Intelligence. Bob Boden and Dr. Robert Carpenter share how we can all better merge and apply our left and right brain thinking. We then welcome a 70s sensation who walks into the studio with the show-and-tell masterpiece that is his authentic Nudie Suit, Bo Donaldson! For their book, The Creative Leader, Bob Boden and Dr. Rob Carpenter interviewed top entertainment industry figures who impart critical insight on how to seamlessly and effectively combine imagination with management, while motivating a team to reach its fullest potential.Bob and Dr. Rob share the wisdom of producers, Jonathan Murray, Stephanie Drachkovitch, Lloyd Schwartz and more, learning that whatever your field, curiosity, innovation, and optimism are keys to success.Cincinnati’s own Bo Donaldson began his music career, mastering the trumpet in fourth grade. He formed The Heywoods at 14, and they were opening for The Rascals, Paul Revere & The Raiders and The Osmonds by the time he was in college.Bo's career was managed by his business-savvy mom, who ran her own record label and was the driving force behind the band's biggest hit Billy-Don't Be a Hero. Bo tells us how that chart-topping single carved a path to stardom for his band and he shares his '70s teen idol memories, including lessons learned from Mark Lindsey, Donny Osmond and Dick Clark.Brace yourself for shady music industry lore as Bo recalls how the VP of his record label threatened his Mom and him with a mob hit, inspiring Bo to heed the lyrics of his own song and keep his head low. Bo shares news about The Heywood’s latest recordings and explains how he shapes his band’s sound. We also learn how to set sea with The Heywoods and a boat full of your favorite artists on a 70s Rock and Romance Cruise! Plus, how well does Bo remember what he confessed to the Teen Magazines!? We play a round of Fan Mag Grab Bag!In recommendations--Fritz: Netflix Series, Department QWeezy, Apple TV+ Series, The Buccaneers Path Points of Interest:The Creative Leader by Bob Boden and Dr. Robert CarpenterBob BodenBob Boden on IGDr. Rob Carpenter Amazon Author PageBo Donaldson and The HeywoodsBo Donaldson on WikipediaBo Donaldson on InstagramBo Donaldson & The Heywoods Fan SiteBo Donaldson on FacebookBo Donaldson & The Heywoods Facebook GroupRock and Romance cruise 2026Magic by Bo Donaldson & The HeywoodsBubble Gum Mania at Riviera TheatreDepartment Q on NetflixThe Buccaneers on Apple TV+
Can your keyboard produce enough hyphens to define Hal Sparks? He is a Comedian-Actor-Musician-Magician-Podcaster-Political Commentator-TV and Radio Personality-Host-Podcast Guest, and beyond. We are hoping his mother keeps a scrapbook.Hal has brought us such memorable characters as “Zoltan” in Dude, Where’s My Car, “Elevator Passenger” in Spiderman 2, Michael in Queer as Folk and he proved too much of an improv master for Talk Soup to contain, which freed him up to host his own podcast empire, to tour with his band, Nerd Halen and with the Sexy Liberals Comedy Show and to guest with us on Media Path Podcast. Hal began sharing his wickedly sharp political observations on video platforms during the pandemic’s early days. He had just left China and lost dozens of friends to Covid. He fully understood the impending danger and devastation. So he hunkered and bunkered and began fact-checking Trump live on Youtube and Twitch. An outlet that released tension for himself and for his politically informed and engaged audience. He calls them “Sparklers!”Hal’s show, Megaworldwide streams daily on his website infotainmentwars.com. Here, he reacts in real time to breaking news and the current political landscape. Hal's strong belief in the power of the electorate to enact real change inspires his work and he endeavors to be a part of the conversation shaping the narrative of the Democratic party.We ask Hal to tackle today's top headlines, the targeted attacks on Iran's nuclear missile sites ordered by Trump and the schism it's causing within the MAGA movement, as exemplified by prominent figures who find themselves at odds on the issue, like Ted Cruz and Tucker Carlson.We also discuss how traumatic childhoods and a lack of empathy underpin the mindset of the current administration. We follow the money that funds right wing influencers. We explore Elon Musk's technocratic family legacy. And we are front and center for the latest from Hal’s comedy cover band, Nerd Halen. Then, we take a tour through Hal's scene-stealing film and TV moments with a round of IMDB Roulette which includes Chopper Chicks in Zombie Town, Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman and, of course, Dude, Where’s My Car!In recommendations-- Fritz: History Channel series, Kevin Costner's The WestWeezy: HBO Max documentary, Surviving Ohio StatePath Points of Interest:Hal SparksInfotainmentWarsHal Sparks on InstagramHal Sparks on FacebookHal Sparks on BlueskyHal Sparks on YoutubeHal Sparks on WikiNerd HalenThe West - History ChannelSurviving Ohio State
You may know Kathy Garver from Family Affair but her career before and since “Cissy” is expansive! She is still extraordinarily prolific with a calendar full of film dates, audio book recordings, and event appearances!Kathy began’ singing and dancing at age three and had already racked up 12 screen credits when she was cast as an extra in The Ten Commandments. From high atop his director crane, Cecile B. DeMille spotted her carrying a lamb and jumped down to write her a larger role as “Rachel the Slave Girl,” a part that brought her face to face with Charlton Heston as he parted The Red Sea! At age 20, she was whisked from her UCLA sorority house to a sitcom set when she landed the role of big-sister “Cissy Davis” in one of CBS’s first color shows, Family Affair!Kathy tells us how her mother employed Streaks N' Tips to match her dark locks to those of her TV siblings. The resulting greenish hue did not detract Ed Hartmann from casting the perfect sibling for Buffy and Jody.Kathy shares her thoughts on why her younger co-stars struggled to adjust into their adult lives. She credits her smooth transition to her supportive family and spending her high school years in San Bernardino, away from the judgement of Hollywood.In IMDB Roulette, Kathy talks about sharing credits with Fred Astaire, Bing Crosby, Kurt Russell, Chuck Connors, Patty Duke, Julie Andrews and Andy Griffith.Kathy has amassed an impressive body of voice work, which includes playing Firestar in Spider-Man and His Amazing Friends. She has also mastered the craft of audio-book narration with her most recent work being, Elvis, Rocky & Me: The Carol Connors Story, coming in July.We hear about Kathy’s, many books, her slew of upcoming projects and appearances, her unrelenting optimism and her belief in the 'divine threads' of people and events which are creating the fabric of her life.In recommendations--Weezy: HBO Max Documentary, Pee Wee As HimselfFritz: Netflix Series, American Manhunt - Osama Bin Laden Path Points of Interest:Kathy GarverKathy Garver - WikiKathy Garver - IMDBKathy Garver - InstagramKathy Garver on FacebookKathy Garver Facebook Fan PageKathy Garver's Photos and BooksKathy's Jun/July 2025 NewsletterWhittier Comic Con on June 22Elvis, Rocky & Me: The Carol Connors Story AudiobookGusPee Wee As HimselfAmerican Manhunt - Osama Bin Laden
You may know him best as the voice of Salem The Cat or Norbert from Sabrina The Teenage Witch and Angry Beavers but Nick Bakay is also the Writer/Producer who brought you Mom, King Of Queens, Paul Blart Mall Cop and Bookie. What does it take to sustain a multi-decade entertainment industry career? Versatility. Nick takes us deep into Sabrina lore with tales of the old-school imagineering of Salem Saberhagen, brought to us via several cats, puppeteers, animatronics, trainers and cat treats. A Buffalo, NY native, Nick’s facility at performing, writing, and producing allowed him to create opportunities for himself that were both entertaining and rewarding. He’s heard from a generation of young women who felt empowered by Sabrina to take on adult life, even without the benefit of witchcraft. Along with his pal Keven James, Nick went from writing on King Of Queens to creating Paul Blart: Mall Cops One and Two, and Zookeeper. And it was his writing chops that forged a connection with Chuck Lorre, providing Nick with an opportunity to write for Two And A Half Men and go on to helm nine seasons of Mom, HBO’s Bookie and an upcoming Netflix sitcom, Leanne. Nick is also a household name to sports fan who see his work on ESPN. He was recently inducted into the Buffalo Broadcasting Hall Of Fame and, a Quick Buffalo Indulgence Warning: Nick and Weezy do get a little carried away waxing sentimental about their shared Buffalo roots. Fritz is using one of his sick days and his seat is kept warm by Weezy’s radio buddies, Tom Murphy and Scott Paton. (They did occupy separate chairs, but you get the idea.) In recommendations--Weezy: Sirens on NetflixNick Bakay: Mr. Inbetween on FX and HuluPath Points of Interest:SirensMr. InbetweenNick Bakay - WikiNick Bakay - IMDBSabrina The Teenage WitchThe Angry BeaversBookieMomPaul Blart: Mall Cop 1Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2Salem SaberhagenWorld Famous Tom Murphy
He has entertained tens of millions of people over the course of four decades with iconic film and TV appearances, yet he remains humble and modest - He is Mystic Pizza, Falcon Crest and Perry Mason (to name a few!) actor, William R. Moses!His Mom, Marian McCargo and big brothers, Rick and Harry Moses were in the business and, although his step-dad, Congressman, Alphonso E. Bell did not entirely approve, Billy, a high school and college athlete found himself pulled towards acting. A typical Take-Your-Kid-To-Work day found young Billy on the set with Leonard Nimoy, Fess Parker and John Wayne! Or on Capitol Hill with Ted Kennedy, Gerry Ford and Bob Dole. Ample inspiration to dream big! Billy’s resume includes the iconic prime time soaps Falcon Crest and Melrose Place, the role of Marc Christian, Rock Hudson's boyfriend, in a groundbreaking film about the legendary Hollywood and LGBTQ history figure, and he has the distinct honor of sharing his feature film debut, in the movie Choices, with fellow newby, Demi Moore!As attorney and P.I. Ken Malansky in NBC's Perry Mason TV film series, Billy worked closely with Raymond Burr and, as it turns out, our own Fritz Coleman who guest starred on an episode entitled, The Case of the Telltale Talk Show Host.From a Mystery Cruise Ship with the Olsen twins to Perry Mason’s Colorado courtroom, to the magical setting of Mystic, Connecticut, to his first Negroni on The Love Boat set with Eddie Albert to valiantly attempting to keep Viola Davis from Getting Away With Murder, Billy’s stories provide a front row seat to the show biz of the glorious final few decades of the 20th century and journeying on into the aughts and beyond.In recommendations--Weezy: The Lost Passenger by Frances QuinnFritz: Mobland on Paramount+Path Points of Interest:William R. Moses on WikiWilliam R. Moses on IMDBPerry Mason TV MoviesMystic PizzaMystic Pizza RestaurantMobland - Paramount+The Lost Passenger by Frances QuinnThe Case of the Telltale Talkshow HostMedia Path Podcast
It's a return trip down the Media Path for Vicki and John and this time Bob is along for fun, games and Cowsill family lore! We welcome back Vicki Peterson and John Cowsill, who recently joined us to talk about their collaboration on a new album of songs written by John's late brothers, Billy and Barry Cowsill, 'Long After the Fire', plus fellow founding Cowsills member, Bob Cowsill joins the conversation.We start at the dawn of Vicki’s Cowsills journey, as a fan who became a friend who became a spouse. A seven-year-old, Vicki’s big sister Debbi said, “You know, there’s a girl your age in this band.” Vicki was instantly sold and she spent her allowance savings on the We Can Fly album. In 1977, when Vicki learned that a friend of a friend knew Bob’s Cowsill, Vicki gave him a call to talk vocal harmonies. Vicki and Debbi were still bubbling under as The Bangs and they went to see The Cowsills perform at a local club. Just a few years later, Bob found himself invited to The Bangles Platinum party and John recounts his meet-cute with Vicki, right before his marriage to someone else!We test the Cowsill/Peterson crew on self-knowledge with a game we like to call 'Are You Better Informed Than Google?', Vicki and John share what took them two married decades to work together and Bob gives his perspective on John and Vicki's new album of Billy and Barry Cowsill covers.Bob and John share how their generational split affected their musical influences and experiences within the band and we hear about the earliest days of the Cowsills, their father Bud's early clash with brother Richard, performing at Brown frat parties as young kids and their first demo song recordings. And the games continue as everyone takes on some Cowsills Trivia Roulette from Becky Presley's Cowsills site!In recommendations--Fritz: Book, Miss May Does Not Exist by Carrie CourogenWeezy: Hulu Series, Devil in the FamilyPath Points of Interest:The CowsillsBecky Presley’s Cowsills PageVicki Peterson and John CowsillVicki and John on InstagramVicki and John on FacebookJohn CowsillJohn Cowsill on FacebookJohn Cowsill on InstagramJohn Cowsill on WikiVicki Peterson on WikiThe BanglesVicki Peterson on FacebookBecky Presley TriviaMiss May Does Not Exist: The Live And Work Of Elaine May, Hollywood's Hidden Genius by Carrie CourogenDevil in the Family
The whole world knows Rick Springfield, the performer, songwriter, idol, rock star, actor, hitmaker....but the real Rick is an introspective deep thinker who has overcome wrenching personal and professional obstacles while remaining true to his purpose and authentic self. Rick joins us this week to talk about a remarkable career trajectory, a new album, a coffee table book and an upcoming national tour!Rick realized at an early age that he was destined to make art, setting off on a unique journey which began in the suburbs of Sydney, then took him to England during the early days of the legendary British rock scene, back to Australia where he launched his music career and then deep into Vietnam to perform for the troops during the height of the Southeast Asia conflict in the late '60s.Rick shares astonishing recollections of playing live in an active war zone, ducking for cover in the middle of a set, flying in an Apache helicopter and his nearly fatal encounter with a grenade. Rick was able to secure a record deal that brought him to America, but while his first single, Speak To The Sky, landed with a flash, he quickly fell into a personal and career rut that lasted 8 years. Rick spent the disco era sticking true to his hook heavy power pop sound and eventually came up swinging with the instant classic Jessie’s Girl, followed by 16 more top forty hits! Simultaneously, Rick’s side hustle landed him on the soap that was addicting millions, General Hospital. Rick played Noah Drake who he describes as a better kisser than doctor.Rick’s autobiography, Late, Late at Night is raw and honest about his struggles with bouts of deep depression. Therapy and medication have helped him and he’s gratified that sharing his truth has been a beacon to others but he feels that music is the greatest comfort. That and possibly rum (use responsibly) Rick and Sammy Hagar have launched the Beach Bar Rum company.All of the above, plus a round of IMDB Roulette which takes Rick from Wonder Woman to Meryl Streep. (Often mistaken for the same person.)In recommendations--Weezy: The Four Seasons, Netflix SeriesFritz: Documentary, Pope: The Most Powerful Man in History Path Points of Interest:Rick SpringfieldRick Springfield on WikiRick Springfield on IMDBRick Springfield on Apple MusicRick Springfield on YouTube MusicRick Springfield Shop2025 Tour DatesRick Springfield on InstagramRick Springfield on FacebookRick Springfield on XRick Springfield on TikTokLose Myself VideoThe Four Seasons on Netflix The Four Seasons film on NetflixPope: The Most Powerful Man in History Media Path Website
Author, performer, podcaster, interviewer and host Nelson Aspen has covered a lot of ground in his highly prolific career, but he continues to return to one spot in particular, figuratively speaking: 41°43'32" N, 49°56'49" W...better known as the location of the most well known and intensely chronicled sea-faring vessel in history: White Star Line's RMS Titanic.For Nelson, his interest in the famed ship seems fated - He's felt a lifelong affinity with Titanic passenger, Milton Long! And Nelson shares Milton’s story in a new historical fantasy/semi-autobiographical/reincarnation novel, Kindred Spirits: A Titanic Tale. We know that Milton met fellow passenger, Jack Thayer aboard Titanic. They were together as the ship went down. One lived. One perished. Is it a gay Titanic love story? Historical records point to the reality that a budding affection between the two men was developing at sea. As the ship met her fate, only women and children were permitted in lifeboats which were being sent into the water half full. Their only hope was to jump. Jack launched himself into the water and balanced on an overturned collapsable lifeboat for hours before his rescue. Milton slid down the now nearly vertical banister and was sucked beneath the ship where he died.Titanic and Milton remained with Jack for long after the tragic events of April 14, 1912. Nelson's book builds on a metaphysical premise that allows readers to examine a unique juxtaposition between the constraints of Edwardian morals and the life-affirming spirit of the contemporary LGBTQ community. We discuss the documentary 'Ship of Dreams: Titanic Movie Diaries' which Nelson worked on with Alexandra Boyd, his co-host on the Titanic Talk podcast, which captures the extent of the impact the 1997 movie made on all who were involved with the production.Nelson shares his thoughts on why modern audiences continue to gravitate to the liner's ill-fated maiden voyage, his thoughts on collecting Titanic artifacts, why no single person or entity can shoulder the blame for the tragic event, plus where he's heading on his upcoming appearances and the latest installment in his semi-autobiographical series, Dancing Between The Raindrops!In recommendations--Fritz: Netflix Series, The ResidenceWeezy: The Dark Money Game on HBOPath Points of Interest:Nelson AspenKindred Spirits: A Titanic TaleNelson Aspen Amazon PageShip of DreamsTitanic Talk PodcastNelson Aspen on YouTubeNelson Aspen on InstagramNelson Aspen on XNelson Aspen on TikTokThe Residence-NetflixThe Dark Money GameDark Money: The Hidden History of the Billionaires Behind the Rise of the Radical Right by Jane Meyer
When family stories become show biz stories, the world listens. Fitting that very bill we’ve got actor Keith Coogan, the grandson of the original child star, Jackie Coogan, whose namesake law in the state of California, is the first to safeguard the rights of young performers in Hollywood. Keith talks about growing up with this legend plus his own iconic roles as a prolific film and TV child actor!Keith's career proves that show business blood runs thick: He told his mother he wanted to act before he even knew of his family legacy. His great grandfather, Jack Coogan Sr. was a Vaudeville and silent film star. His grandfather, Jackie Coogan was known, in the 1920s as, “the most famous boy in the world!” Keith began booking roles by the age of eight and quickly became a go-to casting choice, for TV guest spots and commercials starring Henry Fonda and Robert Morse.Keith’s show biz success made his grandfather proud but a little jealous and relieved when Keith developed into a working actor rather than America’s darling.Keith tells us about the legendary events, which led to The Coogan Act - After Jackie’s father died in a car crash, the young superstar’s hard earned fortune was squandered by his stepfather.Passed in 1939, The Coogan Law requires that a portion of a child's earnings be placed in a blocked trust account until the child turns 18.Keith recalls with great fondness his experiences working with stellar casts and crews on the “Babysitter” cult greats, 'Adventures in Babysitting', and Don’t Tell Mom The Babysitter’s Dead. Plus Toy Soldiers, The Waltons and The Fox and The Hound.We play IMDB Roulette and get into Laverne and Shirley, Mork and Mindy, and Little House!In recommendations-- Weezy: Netflix series, North of NorthFritz: Book, How Democracies Die by Daniel Ziblatt and Steven LevitskyPath Points of Interest:Keith Coogan Keith Coogan on WikipediaKeith Coogan on IMDBKeith Coogan on InstagramKeith Coogan on XKeith Coogan on YouTubeKeith Coogan on FacebookKeith Coogan MerchNorth of NorthHow Democracies Die by Daniel Ziblatt and Steven LevitskyMedia Path Podcast
We have entered an exciting new TV drama era in which creators are immersing viewers in the gritty, heart wrenching details of real life trauma. We are celebrating this provocative and inspiring new chapter by focusing on two of the most buzz-worthy shows in the stream-os-phere, The Pitt on Max and Adolescence on Netflix - Prepare for a fresh frame of reference on the emerging television landscape!The Netflix show Adolescence is sparking tons of discussion, and we are entering the dialogue via our producer Dina Friedman who watched the limited series with her 13-year-old son, Ryder. As a portrayal of a young man who's accused of murdering a classmate, presented without cuts, Adolescence is a bold, ambitious and unflinching production in both form and content.As a serving middle-schooler, Ryder offers unique insights into social media, bullying and the relationships between middle schoolers, technology and their parents. Ryder shares his opinion on the online “’manosphere” and incel' culture which Adolescence explores and he talks about the forces currently shaping his peers' friendship and romantic interactions, while Dina provides the parental perspective.Lesley Boone is also with us to discuss her role as night shift charge nurse Lena on the Max medical show beloved by audiences, critics and medical insiders, The Pitt. Another unique production, The Pitt, which has been lauded as perhaps the most realistic hospital drama to date, is shot in sequence, with star actors, serving as background extras when a scene requires that perspective shift.Lesley shares behind-the-scenes insights and her views on what makes the show stand out within the medical procedural genre. She tells us how medical professionals and veterans work both on and offscreen, ensuring authenticity. For example: That nurse you see in the background operating a heart monitor or swapping out a fluid bag is an actual nurse!Lesley talks about the impressive professionalism of Noah Wyle, the medical training received by the cast and she shares the trade secret that allowed an actor with a fork stuck up her prosthetic nose break for lunch!In recommendations --Weezy: Netflix documentary Bad Influence: The Dark Side of KidfluencingFritz: The book FIGHT by Jonathan Allen and Amie ParnesPath Points of Interest:Lesley Boone on WikiLesley Boone on IMDBLesley Boone on InstagramThe Pitt on MaxAdolescence on NetflixFIGHT by Jonathan Allen and Amie ParnesBad Influence: The Dark Side of Kidfluencing