Wizards of Waverly Pod

<p>Get ready to travel back to Waverly Place with hosts Jennifer Stone ("Harper Finkle") and David DeLuise ("Jerry Russo") as they rewatch the beloved Disney Channel series for the first time in years. Wizards of Waverly Pod includes never heard before behind-the-scenes moments, features interviews with the show's cast and crew, including Selena Gomez ("Alex Russo"), Josh Sussman ("Hugh Normous"), Peter Murrieta (Series Showrunner), and so many more. Jennifer and David also explore the show's impact on pop culture and their personal lives. Whether you're a long-time fan or just discovering "Wizards of Waverly Place" for the first time, this podcast is the perfect way to dive deeper into the world of the show and the significant cultural impact it made. And remember...everything is not what it seems!</p><p>For advertising opportunities please email: michaela@podco.us</p>

“Justin’s New Girlfriend” With Ezra Weisz

Thank you to our sponsor’s at Lumen: if you want to take the next step in improving your health, go to lumen.me/WIZARDS to get 15% off your Lumen.This week on WizPod, Jen and David are joined by the iconic Ezra Weisz as they recap "Justin's New Girlfriend". Ezra explains why this episode was so special to him and the cast, and how the team was able to pull off the Charlie Chaplin energy. The crew talks about why Wizards is one of the greatest shows of all time, and reveal what the original names of Justin and Alex were. David points out some secret cameos, while Ezra points out the glamification of Selena Gomez this episode. Why does Ezra not believe Theresa works in the sub shop? How did the 'Annoying Orange' find its way in the Wizard world? And why was Selena Gomez wearing so much makeup??Want access to weekly bonus videos, exclusive behind-the-scenes content and more? Join our Patreon now at https://www.patreon.com/WizardsPodFollow, Rate, & Review:🍎 Follow on Apple: https://apple.co/3Dw8TuR 🔊 Follow on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3JzsLRAFollow Wizards Pod on Social:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WizardsPodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wizardspod/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wizardspodSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

10-21
47:47

Don't Rain On Justin's Parade

Thank you to our sponsor’s at Lumen: if you want to take the next step in improving your health, go to lumen.me/WIZARDS to get 15% off your Lumen.This week on the pod we recap “Don’t Rain On Justin’s Parade”, and discuss some of our fav heartbreaking and hilarious moments. David reveals the origin of Selena Gomez’s love for pickles, and Jen shares her favorite Max line in the entire show. David and Jen talk about how sad the Harper being bullied scene made them, with Jen explaining what Harper would ~really~ be like if she went to regular high school. Jen and David also share the negativity associated with being a method actor, as well as why it’s so dang hard to remember all the guest stars from episodes many many moons ago. Are witches and wizards the same thing? Which actor in this episode did David have a hard time believing? And who breaks the fourth wall in this episode??Follow @WizardsPod on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube! Want access to weekly bonus videos, exclusive behind-the-scenes content and more? Join our Patreon now at patreon.com/WizardsPod.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

10-14
40:26

Amber Frank’s Challenges With Rejection Before Her Breakthrough Role On “The Haunted Hathaways”

Join us in this inspiring episode as we sit down with Amber Frank, known for her role in The Haunted Hathaways on Nickelodeon. Amber opens up about her journey as a young actor, starting from her childhood in Florida to facing numerous rejections in the competitive world of acting. She reveals her complicated audition process for The Haunted Hathaways and how she was nearly cast for The Thundermans. David, Jen, and Amber also discuss how being teachers at AGB Studios, where they help young actors achieve their dreams, has healed their inner child. Why was Amber almost not cast in The Haunted Hathaways? Why did people make fun of Amber during her preteen years? And what joke did a Nickelodeon star say to Amber that hurt her feelings??Follow @WizardsPod on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube! Want access to weekly bonus videos, exclusive behind-the-scenes content and more? Join our Patreon now at patreon.com/WizardsPod.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

10-07
51:20

How A "13 Going on 30" Star Was Almost Alex Russo

This week we are joined by writers and producers Gigi and Perry as we dive into the behind-the-scenes magic of the fan favorite episode “Family Game Night”! Gigi and Perry reveal why the shift from family centered plots to crazier mayhem plots occurred during season 4, and how they found ways around certain parameters. They also share their experience in the casting room, with Jen revealing the actress who almost played Alex Russo. David asks how the writers came up with all the spells, and what Theresa’s job before the sub station was. Gigi and Perry also share if they write kid shows and adult shows differently.Why couldn’t the writers use the actual game of charades in the episode?  What trick do producers do in casting to make sure their favored actor gets chosen?? And who was the famous actress that was nearly Alex Russo???Follow @WizardsPod on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube! Want access to weekly bonus videos, exclusive behind-the-scenes content and more? Join our Patreon now at patreon.com/WizardsPod.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

09-30
59:24

Hugh's Not Normous

This week on the pod we are recapping the iconic episode “Hugh’s Not Normous”! Jen and David reveal the movie magic behind the special effects of the episode, specifically how they made Alex and Hugh shrink and grow inside her bedroom. They also discover a plot hole where Jerry’s dad is given two names in two different episodes. Jen then shares her “Harper scream moment” at Universal Studio’s Halloween Horror Night, and David talks about how the key to playing younger roles. WHy does Jen think we should all be more like Max Russo? Was there a Wizards of Waverly Place softball team? And whose mom was in the sequel to Annie the musical? Follow @WizardsPod on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube! Want access to weekly bonus videos, exclusive behind-the-scenes content and more? Join our Patreon now at patreon.com/WizardsPod.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

09-23
37:11

How “That 90’s Show” Star Maxwell Acee Donovan Nearly Lost His Iconic Role

This week on WizPod we welcome our guest Maxwell Acee Donovan! You may recognize Maxwell from his work on Netflix’s “That 90’s Show” or Disney’s “Gabby Duran and the Unsittables”. Maxwell shares with us his journey into acting, specifically how he landed his role on “That 90’s Show” and how he almost didn’t get it. He also reveals what it was like to work with David on the set of “That 90’s Show” after growing up watching him on Wizards, and how he and David bonded on set. Maxwell also shares his favorite Wizards episode and asks the questions all fans have been wondering… Why wasn’t Jen in the Wizards movie more? WHo is Maxwell’s favorite OG “That 70’s Show” cast member to work with? And what Wizards merch does Maxwell own that even the cast of Wizards doesn’t own? Follow @WizardsPod on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube! Follow Maxwell @madmaxdonovan on InstagramWant access to weekly bonus videos, exclusive behind-the-scenes content and more? Join our Patreon now at patreon.com/WizardsPod.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

09-16
48:08

Alex Does Good

Thank you to our sponsor Hello Fresh! Go to HelloFresh.com/wizardskids to unlock this exclusive offer. One free kids’ meal per box for two months while subscription is active. This week on the pod we are recapping “Alex Does Good” featuring actress and comedian Jo Anne Worly! Jen and David dish about dating in LA and David reveals how his first ever date went. Jen and David discuss how silly the happy helpers club in this episode is, and relate it to their real life experiences in situations like this club. Jen and David also talk about how weird Max’s chaperoned date is, specifically how Justin flirts with Max’s date! How does Jen view Harper as a person? Which clubs were Jen and David in when they were in school? And which super famous director did David’s brother do high school theatre with?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

09-09
39:57

Future Harper

Thank you to our sponsor’s at Lumen: if you want to take the next step in improving your health, go to lumen.me/WIZARDS to get 15% off your Lumen.This week on the most magical podcast in the universe, we recap “Future Harper” and get the lowdown on how Jen felt when she heard this episode was all about her. David and Jen discuss the ethics of future Harper exposing her and Alex’s magic stories, and theorize who the most powerful wizard is that aided future Harper. David also reveals how the famous actor ROb Reiner ended up in the outro video of this episode. Why was Disney mad at the writers in this episode? Which aspect of David and Jen’s life would they want to fictionalize? And which props did Jen and David steal that are used in this episode??Follow @WizardsPod on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube! Want access to weekly bonus videos, exclusive behind-the-scenes content and more? Join our Patreon now at patreon.com/WizardsPod.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

09-02
40:58

How The Wizards Of Waverly Place Hair Stylist Broke Disney Rules

Thank you to this week's sponsor Hello Fresh!Go to HelloFresh.com/wizardskids to unlock this exclusive offer: one free kids’ meal per box for two months while subscription is active.This week on Wizards we are joined by Wizards Hair Stylist Roxie Sarver! The hair and makeup room always has the best stories, and Roxie truly delivers with her behind the scenes secrets! She shares how Jen and Selena kept trying to change up their hair, even though it went against Disney rules, and why she was skeptical of working for Disney initially. She also reminisces about her favorite hair styles she created on the show, and shares some never before seen photos with us you can find on our instagram throughout this week. She also exposes one of the wildest conversations she had on the Wizards set…Why did Selena get extensions during the show? Which A-List actor requests Roxie to style his hair? And who is the biggest butthead Roxie has worked with??Follow Roxie @hair_by_roxie_b on Instagram.Follow @WizardsPod on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube!Want access to weekly bonus videos, exclusive behind-the-scenes content and more? Join our Patreon now at patreon.com/WizardsPod.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

08-26
57:10

Art Teacher

This week on WizPod we are recapping “Art Teacher” and trying to figure out where all the paper towels in the studio went… David breaks Jen by doing a hilarious bit, and Jen reveals that before Wizards she could not get a Disney audition for the longest time. David shares some fun facts about the new Wizards show, as well as some behind the scenes secrets on what Disney does with all the costumes and sets of your favorite shows once they are finished. David and Jen also discuss what it was like working with Misty May Treaner and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Why can’t Jen wear patterns? Why wasn’t anyone allowed to refer to Dwayne Johnson as “The Rock”? And which Wizards character reminds David of his wife? Follow @WizardsPod on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube! Want access to weekly bonus videos, exclusive behind-the-scenes content and more? Join our Patreon now at patreon.com/WizardsPod.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

08-19
46:27

Helping Hand

Go to HelloFresh.com/WIZARDSAPPS for FREE appetizers for life! One appetizer item per box while subscription is active. This week we are recapping the ‘Helping Hand’ episode, and discussing David’s new status as a grandpa in the wizards universe! Jen shares her experience having undiagnosed diabetes type 1 while filming wizards, and Jen and David discuss the gen-z belief of work life balance. David reveals a special wizards cameo in “Curb Your Enthusiasm” and shares how being a grandpa makes him feel old, but excited! Jen also gives us a current rendition of the iconic Harper cry-laugh!Was the helping hand inspired by a real event in David’s life? How did the Hollywood Forever Cemetery inspire this episode? And do David and Jen agree with the gen-z perspective on life???Follow @WizardsPod on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube! Want access to weekly bonus videos, exclusive behind-the-scenes content and more? Join our Patreon now at patreon.com/WizardsPod.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

08-12
44:36

How Comedian Fred Stoller Became A Disney Icon

The following video contains content about the sensitive topic of suicide. Discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling or in a crisis, help is available. Call or text 988, or chat 988lifeline.org. This week we welcome comedian Fred Stoller to the Pod! Fred is most known for his numerous roles on ‘Everybody Loves Raymond’, ‘The Nanny’, ‘Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide’, and many MANY more! However, our favorite role of his is Dexter on ‘Wizards of Waverly Place’. Fred tells us his journey from denying roles on Hannah Montana to loving his time learning about twitter and the dougie with the Wizards cast. He shares how he landed his first staff writing job on a sitcom, and also how he wrote two books. He also recalls his favorite wizard memories with David and Jen, and reveals why it was his favorite show to work on. Why does Fred apologize to Jen? Which tv show did Fred get cut from? And what advice did Fred give to one of the Wizards cast members??Follow Fred @Fred_stoller on Instagram and TikTok!Follow @WizardsPod on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube! Want access to weekly bonus videos, exclusive behind-the-scenes content and more? Join our Patreon now at patreon.com/WizardsPod.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

08-05
52:44

“Fashion Week”

This week on the pod we are recapping “Fashion Week” as well as answering some fan questions! Jen spills on why Miley Cyrus and Selena Gomez were never in scenes together during their crossover episodes. David shares stories from knowing Johnny Depp back in the day when he was filming the movie “Crybaby”. Jen also gives the BTS details on the iconic rubber ducky dress that appears in this episode, and reveals which outfit she loved wearing most. Which Harry Potter house would Harper and Jerry be in? Did David make his own Jerry action figure? And who is David and Jen’s favorite character on the show?Follow @WizardsPod on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube! Want access to weekly bonus videos, exclusive behind-the-scenes content and more? Join our Patreon now at patreon.com/WizardsPod.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

07-29
37:56

“Fairy Tale”

This week on WizPod, we recap the “Fairytale” episode, and share some behind the scenes secrets you can’t find anywhere else! David talks about his favorite moments from this episode, including bloopers involving his past crush. Jen talks about her love of community theatre, specifically when things go amiss! She also discusses what it was like to grow up in the High School Musical craze, and asks David if he was a big theatre kid growing up. Which Wizards crew member had a secret cameo in this episode?  Which costume piece did David steal from this episode? And which junior musical denied Jen entry into the show? Follow @WizardsPod on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube! Want access to weekly bonus videos, exclusive behind-the-scenes content and more? Join our Patreon now at patreon.com/WizardsPod.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

07-22
47:04

Mel Brooks Reveals The Secrets Of His Most Iconic Films

We have a very special treat today for our WizPod Fam! Today’s guest is David’s godfather and  legendary filmmaker Mel Brooks! Mel is a Hollywood icon most known for making comedic movies. He reminisces on stories of David as a kid and how he met David’s father Dom. Mel talks about how he defied studios and always stuck with his gut on what he wanted to do. Mel gives us all the behind the scene secrets on creating his most acclaimed films, from recasting a role due to an actor’s major injury, to huge film studios saying no to Mel’s films that would go on to become huge successes.Does Mel think it is easier to make an audience laugh or cry? Does Mel Brooks watch ‘The Real Housewives of New Jersey’? What does Mel Brooks want the younger generation to hear? Follow @WizardsPod on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube! Want access to weekly bonus videos, exclusive behind-the-scenes content and more? Join our Patreon now at patreon.com/WizardsPod.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

07-15
51:06

“Make It Happen”

This week on WizPod we recap a very special episode, “Make It Happen”, where we get our first glimpse of Selena Gomez and The Scene. Jen shares how Disney stars typically were tied to a record deal, and how it was not always the best deal. David also shares a behind the scenes casting secret for this episode, and reveals which real life story from his life made it into the script. Jen and David also discuss what their back up plans were and what they believe you should be doing in your twenties. What’s David Saddle Ranch story? What’s it like to be the lead of a Disney show?? And has David finally learned how to sing???Follow @WizardsPod on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube! Want access to weekly bonus videos, exclusive behind-the-scenes content and more? Join our Patreon now at patreon.com/WizardsPod.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

07-08
41:22

“Baby Cupid”

This week on WizPod we recap one of the weirder Wizards episodes… “Baby Cupid”! Jen and David nerd out of video games and medieval torture devices. Jen shares memories of her first school set teacher and the impact she had on her. David questions whether family planning class is still a thing as they rewatch Alex Russo using the class as an excuse for having Baby Cupid. Jen and David also reveal that Baby Cupid was played by two different babies…and that it was quite obvious!What is Jen’s attachment style? What did Harper’s hair sweater actually feel like in real life?? And why is Jen so scared of Baby Cupid???Follow @WizardsPod on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube! Want access to weekly bonus videos, exclusive behind-the-scenes content and more? Join our Patreon now at patreon.com/WizardsPod.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

07-01
37:32

How Saturday Night Live Icon Rachel Dratch Became Future Harper

Welcome back Wizardspod Fam! This week we are honored to be joined by Saturday Night Live alum, comedy legend, and fellow podcaster, Rachel Dratch! Rachel shares her journey from being a psychology major to auditioning for SNL, as well as how she was asked to play Future Harper on Wizards. Rachel shares the secrets behind her most iconic SNL sketches, and what the protocol is when they break character. She also dives into her fascination with the supernatural and her favorite memory from working on Wizards. What was Rachel’s first job? Why was Rachel rejected the first time she auditioned for Saturday Night Live? How did Rachel and Tina Fey meet and what bonded them as friends? Follow @WizardsPod on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube! Want access to weekly bonus videos, exclusive behind-the-scenes content and more? Join our Patreon now at patreon.com/WizardsPod.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

06-24
54:54

Taxi Dance

Welcome back to WizPod! This week we are recapping and diving behind the scenes of the “Taxi Dance” episode. Jen talks about her stunt in this episode and how she wanted it to be as real as possible, and David shares some of his crazy stunt experience in his other roles. We also discuss how this episode has our first “See you in PE!” line. Our hosts share what it’s really like to do eating scenes on television, and how they’re not as fun as you might think. And finally, Jen and David debate the Russo family’s house layout.Which part of the episode were Jen and David’s favorite? Which easter egg did the writers hide in this episode? And where does the door in the Russo living room actually lead to???Follow @WizardsPod on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube! Want access to weekly bonus videos, exclusive behind-the-scenes content and more? Join our Patreon now at patreon.com/WizardsPod.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

06-17
43:39

Harper Knows

This week on Wizardspod we are recapping the very highly anticipated episode “Harper Knows”, where Alex finally reveals to Harper she is a wizard. Our dynamic duo starts off by telling us which famous singer grew up watching Wizards of Waverly Place and knew David as a kid through family connections. David and Jen talk about the suspense of disbelief in this episode, specifically with the outer space scene. They notice that this miiiight be the first episode where we hear about Jeremy from science, but we need you to help us figure it out! Lastly, Jen vulnerably discusses her fourteen year old self’s insecurities in this episode and what she would say to her today. David wore his Wizards costume where? Which storyline did David want to change in this episode? And which famous sibling duo did Jen meet while rock climbing???Follow @WizardsPod on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube! Want access to weekly bonus videos, exclusive behind-the-scenes content and more? Join our Patreon now at patreon.com/WizardsPod.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

06-10
51:27

broadwaylover8790

This is so wholesome. I love the chemistry between you guys. And I love the behind the scenes of how the magic happens.

02-16 Reply

Recommend Channels