Afleveringen
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Don McLean Returns.
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know even more about Don McLean. You know this legendary singer songwriter as the artist behind some of the most iconic songs of Americana music. In this episode, we chat about his new children's book 'Vincent: Starry children's Night'. This is the second children's book based on one of his classic songs. The first one was titled 'American Pie, The Fable By Don McLean'. There will be five books in total, so 3 more to come! The books are written by Judith A. Profer, illustrated by Yoko Matsuoka, and released by Meteor 17 Books. In this episode, we also discuss his newest studio album called 'American Boys'. The album came out earlier this year, and as Don tells it; this may be his last studio record. He explains why, and we do a bit of a dive into a couple of the songs on this record, plus he lets me play the title track! I ask Don what he is listening to these days, his thoughts on the current state of songwriting, and he fills us in on some upcoming projects. Make sure you check out these children's books, and Don's new record American Boys. Also, for more information about upcoming projects and tour dates; go to DonMcLean.com -
Jeff Smith
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Jeff Smith. Jeff is an icon in the local south Texas music scene. I caught up with Jeff in San Antonio, at his multi-use arts facility called The Corn Pound. In this episode, we get to know Jeff, and how he got into music. From his brother's involvement with The Krayolas, to his friendship with filmmaker Richard Linklater, we go everywhere in this episode. Jeff tells me about: Flagship Records, the Jett Bass Studio, High Voltage Music Program, Tex Pop In Exile Music Archive, and SausTex Records... all housed at The Corn Pound. We discuss some of the musical acts Jeff has worked with at SausTex including Pinata Protest, and DiNOLA. Then we get into how Jeff came to be part of Richard Linklater's Woodshock documentary short film, and why Jeff's scenes were cut from Linklater's early film Slacker. Jeff and I chat about how streaming services like Spotify have essentially gutted the already small income streams for the smaller, independent artists. Plus we talk about a recent collaboration between SausTex Records and Cacophony Clan Records on a super cool album to support some charities. Naturally Jeff and I talk about his band Hickoids, which has been around for decades, and he even lets me play one of their more recent songs! If you are even in or around San Antonio, you MUST check out The Corn Pound... and tell 'em you heard about them on Fascination Street Podcast.
Special thanks to Peter Illing at Cacophony Clan Records for putting this together. -
Spencer Garrett
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Spencer Garrett. In this episode, I get to know the actor and how he got to where he is. We chat about his family, and what made him decide to get into show business. We trade Hollywood stories; although he has many, MANY more! We take a little detour, when Spencer tells me what he was doing between college and acting; while working in Washington D.C. Next we Talk about how and why he studied with Sanford (Sandy) Meisner, and how Spencer came to be in several of Emilio Estevez's film projects. From behind the scenes on some of the greatest films ever made, to some fun down time with Mike Nichols, and Dustin Hoffman; Spencer is full of stories. I ask Spencer about his involvement in the super popular scripted fiction podcast called America 2.0, and he hints there may be more on the horizon. That leads into an unbelievable story about a group of character actors who meet every month for dinner and have a BLAST together. The CADS, is a group of like-minded actors including: Michael McKean, Lawrence Fishburne, Steven Weber, Titus Welliver, Kevin Pollak, Richard Kind, and so many more! I want to attend this dinner just once!!. Make sure you check out Spencer in the upcoming Korean spy thriller on Disney+ called Tempest (2025), and tell him you heard him on Fascination Street Podcast! -
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Corinne Britti. Corinne is a comedian and an actress. Her recent projects include: For Sale, Condor's Nest, Take Care of Emily, and Saturday Night. In this episode, we chat about what made her want to be an actress, and why she felt NYU Tisch was the place to go. We discuss some of the things that you DON'T learn in acting school, and some of the things she learned at the Stone Street Conservatory. Corinne shares funny audition stories, and even a story about why there were bodies strewn all over her apartment during Covid! I ask her about the live comedy show / therapy session she co-created, and whether she plans to bring it back. She shares how she came to work on an ICE T music video, and we talk about some of her previous projects, and some of the weird ways that filmmakers find their talent. Naturally we touch on her new film SATURDAY NIGHT; which is in theaters NOW. In this film, Corinne plays real life comedian Valri Bromfield; and the film covers the back stage events in the hour or so leading up to the LIVE pilot of Saturday Night Live. Since this film is directed and co-written by Jason Reitman, naturally I ask what it was like to work with him, and I ask if she would ever work with him again. Her answer may surprise you..... but probably not!
GO SEE SATURDAY NIGHT!! -
A.J. Lambert
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know A.J Lambert. AJ is a singer, a songwriter, and now a filmmaker. In this episode, we chat about her new short film THE JUNCTION. We discuss why she wrote it, why she made it, and why she decided to make it a short film. She also shares where it can be seen, and what she hopes to gain from this project. AJ is also the daughter of Hugh Lambert and Nancy Sinatra, as well as the grand daighter of Frank Sinatra. We talk about her Siruis XM show caleld Seriously Sinatra, and how that came about, plus, i ask her if there are "gate keepers" in the music business. Naturally we talk about her family; but she also discusses losing her father at a very young age, and some of the things she missed out on; as well as some of the ways that affected her. I ask AJ about her music, and she even lets me play one of her songs! Look for AJ everywhere that you listen to music, and wherever you see short films. -
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Justin McKenzie. Justin is the founder of Das Greenhaus, a business incubator located in Boerne, Texas. In this episode, we discuss his growing up in south Texas, Europe, and the Midwest United States. We chat about his firsthand accounts of transitioning entire production facilities from the Midwest US to Mexico; and what it did to each of those local economies. Justin has a passion for economic development and helping businesses get started. This is why he created Das Greenhaus, as well as the Boerne Kendall County Angel Network. We discuss a little about what each of those things are, and why these projects are so important to him. Along the way, we discuss NAFTA, ARPA, innovation, and the importance of leadership at the local level. Finally, we discuss Justin's podcast called The Building Texas Show, and why he decided to bring this show to life. You can follow him and his show, just about everywhere, including the video episodes on You Tube.
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John Pirruccello Returns Again!
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know even more about John Pirruccello. In John's 3rd appearance on the show, we discuss The Mandela Effect; and some of the instances where it haunts John. Then we talk about the British playwright Patrick Marber, and some of his projects. John will be working with Partrick soon, and I pepper him with questions about it. Naturally, we talk about some of John's previous projects like: She Hulk & Twin Peaks, and john shares some behind the scenes stories involving David Lynch & David Mamet. We chat about Comicon and his experience there, and then I ask John questions about his life, some of his past experiences, and people from his past. He shares a story of trying to get in the movie The Godfather 3, and the time he spent with Father Guido Sarducci. Then we jump into some of his upcoming work. Season 3 of The Lincoln Lawyer comes out this week! John plays a prosecutor in most of the new season. He talks about playing ping pong on the set with the lead actor from the show, We do talk a bit about John's time on Mayans MC, and what a fun show that was to work on. Finally, we discuss John's role in The Sex Lives of College Girls, and his upcoming debut on The Simpsons! John and I close out the show talking about The Olympics, and the break dancing kerfuffle. -
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Willa Rudolph. Willa is a music publicist, visual artist, and the singer / songwriter of the Grunge Rock band November Girl. In this episode, we chat about growing up in New York and Los Angeles, and being around a family of musicians. Then we turn to what led to Willa becoming a publicist, and then making the switch to become a music publicist in particular. We discuss how she gained the confidence to front a band, and the hilarious way she found the other members of November Girl, We chat about the New York music scene and I find out what the hell "Shoe Gaze" music is. Naturally we talk about The Great American Mud Wrestling Show, and what that is, and whether or not we are still in a singles world; where bands don't feel the need to release albums. Of course Willa and I talk about November Girl's new EP called Heart Prayer, and she lets me play one of the tracks from it.
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Nils Rasmussen
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Canadian punk artist Nils Rasmussen. Nils is better known in some circles as the founder and singer for the band Uncle Outrage. In this episode, we chat about growing up in Canada, and what kinds of music influenced his musical tastes. Next we take a small detour and get into some of his science fiction writing, and why he does it. Naturally we discuss when he started Uncle Outrage, and why he felt compelled to do so. He shares some stories about some fans who have tattooed his lyrics or logo onto themselves, some fans who have named pets after him, and what its like to have his music covered by bands on the other side of the planet. Nils graciously lets me play what is arguably his most adored song Stay Magical, and we discuss the impact that song has had on some of his listeners. Finally we dive into his new record. Greatest Shit is the name of Uncle Outrage's new album (Cacophony Clan Records) This album marks the band's first ever vinyl offering, and is comprised of 19 of their greatest tracks. Two of the songs are new; but have found a place to nestle among these other favorites. Of course I asked him if I could play my favorite song from the album, and he lets me! While Nils is not really on social media, he does give his personal email address in the show, so reach out and let him know you heard him on Fascination Street! -
Steve Cooper
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Steve Cooper. In this episode, we discuss his previous career as a stand up comedian, and how that turned him into an interviewer. We talk a bit about New Jersey, and where the best pizza is. I share my favorite story about Cherry HIl, NJ, and then we get a bit personal with some of Steve's previous health issues. Next we move onto how Steve became involved with the Big Daddy Graham Show, and how this eventually spun him off into his own show. Steve shares some fun and fascinating stories about being in and around Hollywood. Stories of his interactions with Gary Coleman, and even Jonathan Taylor Thomas. From Steve's days working at Planet Hollywood, to writing his own cookbook, and being a hand model for television; we cover all kinds of stuff. Finally, we chit chat about his podcast Cooper Talk. On his show, Steve interviews guests from music, comedy, and the acting industries, and has been doing it for well over a thousand episodes across nearly 15 years. We have a few guests in common, and bring up some specific examples of how interview style matters!
Check Steve Cooper out on his podcast Cooper Talk, and his other show focusing on business The Coop Tank. -
Ella Engstrom
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Ella Engstrom. Ella is an interior designer and organizational coach. Ella is also one of the three "fixers" on the television show The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning (Peacock / Bravo). In this episode, Ella tells me about growing up in Sweden, and working for 30 years as a Concept Developer and a Visual Merchandiser in the retail environment in Sweden. I ask her a ton of 'Dumb American' questions about Sweden and about visual merchandising. Next we get into how she came to be part of the television show, and how she gets along with the other two hosts, now that the show is between seasons. Ella explains 'fika' to me and a few other uniquely Swedish words and concepts. We talk about the taboo nature of talking about death in The U.S and in Sweden, and then I get super personal in my questions to her! Ella explains why she has a second home on the Mediterranean coast, and i pepper her with questions about how often she declutters and organizes her own home. Naturally we talk about the famous Dalecarlian Horse and why it is known worldwide. Finally, we talk about what she learned during the show, and whether or not there will be another season. Ella does consultant work privately for organization and home logistics via her very own company; listen to find out how to contact her directly for help, no matter where you live! -
Shelley Robertson
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Shelley Robertson. Shelley is an actress who you may have seen in: Chicago Med, General Hospital, NCIS, The Morning Show, The Rookie, This Is Us, Shameless, Timeless, Agents of Shield, and so much more. In this episode, we chat about why she became an actress, and some of the pitfalls and hurdles associated with that career. Shelley then shares some personal stories about managing finances as an actor, and juggling work while being a single mom. Next up, we give some love to mutual friend and previous guest D. Elliot Woods. We do discuss some of the industry changes that help single parents working on set, and I ask her why she still takes acting classes after having so much success. She shares with me some of the important lessons she has learned in various acting classes; including the most valuable lesson she learned from Eriq La Salle & Michael Beach; in their class. We touch a little bit on the book that she is in the process of writing, and why she thinks it is necessary. Be sure to check out Shelley's new film Cora Bora; available everywhere; and follow her on Instagram. -
Alessandra Williams
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know actress Alessandra Williams. In this episode, we chat about her growing up in New Jersey, and where some of the best pizza is. Then we get into what made her want to become an actress in the first place. She explains how gymnastics and competitive cheerleading as a youth, helped her win some of her first auditions. Alessandra tells a wonderful story abut moonwalking into an audition for a Bollywood film; and how that turned out. Then we discuss some of her other passions. Alessandra not only acts, but paints, and writes children's books. Naturally, I ask about how and why she became a member of The Actors Studio, and she tells me how Al Pacino helped her get in. We cover a few of her film projects with Peter Berg, and she cracks me up with a tale about working with Gina Gershon. Alessandra shares a couple of stories from the set with Jim Caviezel, and then we talk about her new film Lissa's Trip; where she plays TWO roles. Lissa's Trip is available for free on Tubi TV. Check it out! -
Emmett Kai
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Emmett Kai. After growing up in a Sonoma County area farming community, Emmett decided to move across the country to New York City; to pursue a music career. In this episode, we chat about what it was like growing up in a rural community and trying to find his own specific musical identity. We cover Emmett's time as a DJ, and some of his other projects including DJ Blap Deli, Valley Girl Baby Powder, Young Maserati, and Unity Ambulet. We even discuss an unreleased project that hopefully will find its way to the public very soon. Finally, we talk about Emmett's newest album called Whale Milk. He shares some of the thoughts behind the meanings of some of the songs on this album, and he lets me play the first track from it. The song is called Holy Nitros, and is his favorite track from Whale Milk. Throughout our conversation, Emmett opens up about an artist's need to be seen and heard, gaining confidence, and his personal motto 'shut up and listen'. A few of the songs on the new album deal with the idea that our current society is in decline, so naturally we elaborate a bit on that as well. We also touch on his producing Jordana's upcoming album. Be sure to check our Emmett everywhere you get music, and his website for upcoming releases and possible live shows. -
Tony Winters Returns!
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Tony Winters EVEN MORE! In this episode, we catch up on how his industry has changed since covid, and we touch on some of the plays he as been involved in; as well as a play or two he may have coming up. We discuss some of his past films & television roles, and he lets a tale slip about a Christmas film he has written and is in the process of getting produced. 'Something For Santa' promises to bring back some of the MAGIC to Christmas movies. Then we dive right onto Tony's new film. The Supremes at Earl's All You Can Eat will be released on HULU, August 23rd (by Searchlight Pictures). It stars: Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Sanaa Lathan, Tati Gabrielle, Uzo Aduba, Mekhi Phifer, and Tony Winters (as Earl). As always; Tony brings the fun to Fascination Street. Check out the film on Hulu, and enjoy this conversation with Pretty Tony!
***Full video interview available on the Fascination Street Podcast YouTube channel*** -
Eve Selis
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Eve Selis. Known as 'The Queen of Roadhouse Rock"; I sat down with Eve to chat about her career, and her new album. In this episode, we discuss her early life as a young musician, and even how she got to have 'Eve Selis Day' in San Diego. She shares some pretty scary cancer stories, which is how she ended up in Nashville, and we discuss how art and trauma are tied to each other. I ask her about some of her previous projects, including Cactus Honey, King's Road, & 3 of Hearts. Finally, we get into her newest album called 'Dark Sky Blue'. Eve shares some of the traumatic events that influenced the songs on this album, and she even lets me play my favorite track from it. Dark Sky Blue is about unconditional love, loss, and the stages of grief. Eve explains all of that, and touches on some of those tragic events; and gives maybe the best answer ever to the age old question "Who is this record for?" Finally, she shares the story of a bald eagle landing on her head during a live performance, and her performing at Abbey Road Studios! Follow Eve everywhere on social media, and be inspired by the vulnerability of her music. -
Charlotte Kirk
Take a walk with me as I get to know Charlotte Kirk. Born outside on London, she had dreams of becoming an actress. So, she decided to move to New Yor City. That lasted about 6 months. Then she made the move to Hollywood! In this episode we chat about when she knew she wanted to be an actress, and why she chose Los Angeles. Charlotte is open and answers my many questions about her Dyslexia and her Asperger's. We discuss some of the challenges and some of the benefits of these conditions as they relate to her chosen field. We touch briefly on her Covid pandemic television binging, and then get into her projects. In 2021 she released The Reckoning, shortly after, she released The Lair, and available everywhere Friday August 9th is her new film DUCHESS. We talk about how hard it was to get this film made, and how much fun it was to kick some ass on screen. We talk about her 2 production companies; and why she needs two separate ones. Then we get into her 2025 release calendar. Next year she has FOUR films slated for release. An erotic thriller called Compulsion, A re-imagining of sorts of the OJ Simpson & Nicole Brown-Simpson story called The Juice, an action film called Fight or Flight, and a spooky creepy movie called The Possession of Gladstone Manor. Look for all of those in the new year, and Charlotte has promised to return to the show when some of those start dropping. Naturally we talk about the importance of focus and determination in her industry. Wouldn't you know it.... I unearthed some of her short-lived music career! It was like pulling teeth to get her to say yes, but she DOES let me play one of these songs on the show. (Eyes In Love)
Be sure to check out the full VIDEO episode on the Fascination Street Podcast YouTube channel. -
S.M. Sykes (Scott)
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know S.M. Sykes. Scott Sykes is an author in the young adult (YA) fiction genre. In this episode, we chat about what his career was before he started writing, and what led him to eventually start writing his first novel. After serving in the U.S. Navy, and settling down in Delaware, Scot got inspired to pick up the pen. In addition to his THREE novel series (The Blue Series), Scott has written tons of novellas and short stories. You better believe I ask him to explain the difference to me! We discuss several different writing forums including Medium, and NaNoWriMo, and even some of his social media strategies. The Blue Series consists of: Eyes of Blue, A Dim Blue, and Loss of Blue. Scott thought the series was done there, but the story won't be laid to rest! Expect more books in the series from this tireless indy writer. You can catch Scott at various writing & horror conventions around the country, and don't forget to check out his social media. He posts some pretty fun and inventive videos on Instagram & TikTok. -
Scott R. Jones
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Scott R. Jones.
Scott is a horror fiction author and "a genuine master of horror" (Ramsey Campbell). In this episode, we chat about some of his previous careers, and some of his writing all along the way; during those years. We discuss his creation of Martian Migraine Press, and what he wanted to do with it. We also delve into the gleeful Nihilism of the Lovecraftian Mythos, and the positively enlightening rabbit hole of Blacknosis. We move into gabbing about his first novel STONEFISH; where he tells me why he named it that, and what it is about (no spoilers). I let him know that he is my daughter's favorite author, and we touch just a bit on her boyfriend, Sasquatch. I ask him about his horror themed erotic fiction, released under a psuedonym; before finally, talking about his newest novel: DRILL.
This new novel stems from his experience in & out of the Jehovah's Witness religeous grooup. With this novel, Scott reveals some of the more disturbing aspects of The J, and it's effect on him and members of his family. This book is predicted to make some serious waves in The JW community; so buckle up!
His newest book (DRILL) is available NOW, everywhere you find books.
Producer credit: David Himlie, with help from Sally Zabava -
Ricky Dickson
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Ricky Dickson. Having spent his entire working career at the Blue Bell Creameries; Ricky retired as CEO. In this episode, we chat about how he came to work for Blue Bell, a little bit of the history of the company, and how he rose to the rank of CEO. Along the way, we discuss some of the pitfalls he had to deal with. We also talk about some of the amazing successes, the effects of some natural disasters on the company as a whole, and some fun ice cream stories. I share the details of a trip to the Blue Bell headquarters that I took with my family some years back, and I pitch Ricky my own ice cream flavor! All of this was a blast. But the most important thing we discussed; was God's Plan for Ricky. All throughout the journey of his personal life and career. Ricky knew from an early age that God has something special in mind for him. We get into when he knew, and how hard it was to stay focused, and trust in God's Plan. Lucky for us, Ricky has revealed all of this and more in his new book 'One Scoop at a Time: Stories & Lessons From Fear to Faith'. This amazingly inspiring book comes out JULY 6th EVERYWHERE, as well as Amazon and OneScoopAtATime.com This really is an engrossing book, filled with laughter, heartache, hope, and faith. So get somewhere that sells Blue Bell ice cream and crack open this book! - Laat meer zien
