Media Path Podcast

Media Path

Have you ever become obsessed with a topic and taken a deep dive into consuming all you could uncover about it?

Media Path podcast is here to indulge your obsessions. hosted by Fritz Coleman and Louise Palanker, the show takes you along on a scenic tour through books, movies, TV, podcasts and music related to a given topic of captivation. We are exploring entertainment, politics, history, true crime, world events and all of their intriguing intersections.

Fritz Coleman is a legendary Los Angeles weatherman/humorist. Louise Palanker is a filmmaker/columnist and co-founder of Premiere Radio.
Hop aboard. Discover more layers, intrigue and substance. Go beyond binging with Media Path.

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20 episodes
Updated July 23

Episodes20

Newest first

July 23 · 1 hr 10 min
The Most Versatile Man In Show Business & Embracing The Unknown with Michael Kostroff!
How do you go from voicing a beaver in a sleep med commercial to portraying TV’s most amoral attorney on its most iconic crime drama?! For actor, author, and teacher Michael Kostroff, the answer is: embrace the unexpected. Best known as cunning defense lawyer Maurice Levy on HBO's The Wire, Michael joins Weezy this week to reflect on a career that has taken him from television dramas and Broadway musicals to films, teen comedies, sitcoms and commercials. You will currently find him on the MGM+/Prime Marvel superhero series (available in both color and black & white!) Spider-Noir with Nicolas Cage, as New York City's mayor and he's also just wrapped up his first Broadway run as the bank manager in Dog Day Afternoon. Along the way, he shares behind-the-scenes stories from the national tour of The Producers (where lightning-fast costume changes and a grueling schedule collided with back and forth flights to film The Wire). Michael’s career then took him to The Plot Against America, The Wizard of Lies (with Robert De Niro!) and The Blacklist. Michael shares his thoughts on The Wire’s rarified role as a television landmark, why its richly layered characters continue to resonate, and whether he minds being typecast. He also talks about his four books, including Letters from Backstage, which grew out of emails that unexpectedly found a massive audience, and The Stage Actor's Handbook, born from his desire to provide aspiring actors with the practical guidance missing from their theater education. Michael opens up about the life-saving community he found in theater and the salve it offered for his unhappy childhood. We peek at his viral apartment tour video, revealing the unglamorous truth behind the doors of a working actor. We get schooled on the perils of backstage "showmances," and we learn why, after decades of surprising turns, he's still excited to see where the next one leads. This is a warm, funny, and inspiring conversation with an actor whose career proves that the most rewarding paths are often the least predictable. In current media-- Weezy: The American Experiment and Little House on the Prairie on Netflix Producer Dina: AMC/AMC+ Series Dark Winds, streaming on Netflix Path Points of Interest: Michael Kostroff Michael Kostroff on Wikipedia Michael Kostroff on IMDB Michael Kostroff on Instagram Michael Kostroff on Facebook Michael Kostroff on Youtube Apartment Tour Books by Michael Kostroff The Stage Actor's Handbook: Traditions, Protocols, and Etiquette for the Working and Aspiring Professional By Michael Kostroff and Julie Garnyé Letters From Backstage The American Experiment Little House On The Prairie Dark Winds
July 16 · 1 hr 16 min
Mentorship At Today's SAG-AFTRA & Lessons From A Guest Spot Queen
If you had nearly 300 screen credits, would you spend your free time mentoring new SAG-AFTRA members and helping fellow performers navigate a rapidly changing industry?? If your hand went up, you may be this week’s guest, Lee Garlington! Lee joins Weezy and Lisa to discuss the unique, "hired gun" craft of popping into iconic shows with scene stealing roles and becoming what she calls "a director's actor." You had yet to learn her name when you saw her as Joey’s father’s mistress in Friends, as Bobby Cannavale’s mother in Will & Grace, as Betty White’s daughter on The Golden Girls and as Darlene’s friend on Roseanne. You will know it now! Lee takes us behind the scenes on Psycho II and III, The West Wing, Sneakers, Six Feet Under and Seinfeld and shares harrowing axe-related stories from A Killing in a Small Town. She offers candid advice for aspiring actors, tells us about her work with the SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Conservatory and discusses the realities of longevity in Hollywood, and her work with the Ruskin Group Theatre. Plus, an entertaining round of IMDb Roulette uncovers the horrors of sitting for a death mask fitting, why she ever so gently adjusted the placement of Robert Redford and how her performance went next level when Amy Madigan called her a nazi! This is a fascinating conversation about resilience, professionalism, and a lifelong love of the craft. And in current media, Weezy and Lisa talk about Is This Thing On and additional films that explore the standup comedy experience. Path Points of Interest: Lee Garlington Lee Garlington on Wikipedia Lee Garlington on IMDB Lee Garlington on Instagram SAG-AFTRA L.A. Conservatory Ruskin Group Theatre Great Movies About Stand-Up Is This Thing On?
July 9 · 1 hr 9 min
Reflections On The Blue Lagoon & The 80s Male Cultural Moment with Christopher Atkins
From overnight heartthrob to enduring pop culture icon, Christopher Atkins joins us for a funny, revealing conversation that delves into Hollywood, celebrity, and changing cultural mores… all while cooking a Peruvian dinner for his girlfriend! #multitasker Chris looks back at the Blue Lagoon phenomenon, reflecting on why the film remains such a lasting pop culture touchstone as a coming-of-age love story that explores the roots of desire and societal expectations. He shares behind-the-scenes memories from filming on a remote island at the age of 18. (his first time away from home). Production erected a tent village that served as home, for cast and crew, for four and a half months. Exactly why did producers place a Brooke Shields poster above Chris’s cot? They were hoping to inspire sparks that looked real on camera! And it worked. Our conversation explores Chris's unique position in time and space where LGBTQ+ people were beginning to live more openly just as he was becoming a male sex symbol. How did all of this impact a teenager, coming of age himself and quickly recognizing just how recognizable he had become after making just one movie? Chris says his step-dad kept him grounded, reminding him that when the movie star at the table is getting the most attention, it’s time for him to ask other people how their day is going. He looks back on being sexualized as a young man, and reflects on how dramatically attitudes towards nudity, consent, and gender dynamics on film sets have evolved since he entered the business. Through it all, Christopher maintains that true beauty always comes from within. Chris fondly recalls his friendship with Brooke Shields, explaining that while he often felt protective of her, she was already the seasoned pro and he was the newbie, learning the ropes from her. While Chris honestly owns his marginal singing and dancing capacities, The Pirate Movies gold album soundtrack he earned hangs proudly in his home and he loves attending fan events with co-star Kristy McNichol and meeting folks who claim they watch this movie on loop, stopping only briefly to snag some face time and an autograph. At the cusp of his stardom, Chris attended the legendary Night of 100 Stars celebration, where he and Brooke enjoyed memorable encounters with James Cagney, Paul Newman and Princess Grace. Plus, do you know what Linda Gray did to Chris during their kissing scene on Dallas? We’ll let Chris tell you! And we just had to put Chris through rounds of Blue Lagoon Trivia AND, IMDB Roulette, where we learn that Chris has co-starred with Lesley-Ann Warren, Cloris Leachman! And Diff’rent Strokes’ Mr. Drummond!? In current media-- Weezy: Netflix Film, Voicemails for Isabelle Lisa: HBO original Series, DTF St. Louis Path Points of Interest: Christopher Atkins on Wikipedia Christopher Atkins on IMDB Christopher Atkins on Instagram Christopher Atkins on Facebook 2025 Playgirl Interview Fanboy Expo June 10-12, 2026 DTF St. Louis Voicemails for Isabelle Media Path Podcast Media Path Podcast on Facebook Media Path Podcast on Instagram
June 25 · 1 hr 32 min
A Creative's Cosmic Connections & Hollywood's Go-To Screen Pro with Stephen Tobolowsky
Stephen Tobolowsky has gifted us with indelible character performances while living an extraordinary life that spans from Texas roots to show biz lore to telepathy and beyond. Stephen reflects on his earliest pull toward Hollywood, when even as a child playing cowboys, he imagined the action as if it were being filmed. That instinct would carry him from Texas to Broadway to Los Angeles, constantly seeking opportunities to create. And his capabilities stretch beyond acting and music to include a Universe connection that has invited intriguing insights, unexplained knowing and“coincidences.” In fact, Stephen’s abilities inspired David Byrne to write a song called Radiohead which led the band Radiohead to become exactly that. Best known by many as Groundhog Day’s painfully persistent Ned Ryerson, Stephen comes loaded with behind-the-scenes intel on the film’s famously complex shoot, during which he and Bill Murray (portraying a weatherman!) were kept on constant standby to shoot the scene in every possible weather condition for director Harold Ramis. The conversation winds from Stephen’s participation in Thelma & Louise’s iconic final moment to Brad Pitt’s instant star quality to a chilling moment, on location for Mississippi Burning, were Stephen, playing a KKK grand wizard, was pulled aside by a Klansman and told, “We will be watching you.” Stephen opens up about his collaborations and creative relationships, including his connection to playwright Beth Henley and how he helped shape her Pulitzer Prize-winning Crimes of the Heart and his enduring love story and best-friendship with his wife, Actress/Director Ann Hearn. From Memento to Silicon Valley, Stephen reflects on the wide range of roles he’s brought to life, offering insight into Christopher Nolan’s storytelling brilliance, Norman Lear’s landmark contributions and the stark terror of performing Live In Front Of A Studio Audience. He also speaks candidly about being entirely recognizable and shares what folks tend to run over and say when they become HIS Ned Ryerson! And Stephen brings his masterful storytelling to IMDB Roulette, covering One Day At A Time, The Goldbergs, Spaceballs, Glee and Nobody Wants This while weaving Hollywood history with personal perspectives and navigating the curious intersection of art and life. In current media-- Weezy: Outlast The Jungle on Netflix Lisa: Book, The Correspondent by Virginia Evans Path Points of Interest: Stephen Tobolowsky Books Stephen Tobolowsky - Wikipedia The Tobolowsky Files Podcast Stephen Tobolowsky on IMDB Stephen Tobolowsky on Facebook Outlast The Jungle The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
June 18 · 1 hr 24 min
From Disney To Star Trek & Surviving Child Abuse And Child Stardom with Ike Eisenmann!
As a small child, Ike Eisenmann manifested his dream of being a Disney performer when he landed the lead in Escape To Witch Mountain and became the top child star of the ‘70s. But the joy and pride of appearing in Gunsmoke, Kung Fu, Mannix, Emergency, and Little House On The Prairie was shadowed by the abusively cruel insults hurled at him by his jealous and mentally ill actor father. Ike titled his new book after his father’s mantra: “You’ll Never Be A Star.” Ironically, Ike had no interest in being a star. He wanted to take part. And that he did, working with Eddie Albert, Bette Davis, George C. Scott, William Shatner, Roddy McDowall, Beau Bridges, Kim Richards and so many more gifted artists. Ike prided himself on being a one-take-wonder, often doing his own stunts, leaping through the sky, attached to wires, to snag a home run in Escape From Witch Mountain, sword fighting in The Bastard and horseback riding in Kit Carson And The Mountain Men. Ike’s fantastic stories invite so many questions. Was Shatner method acting when he would strut around the set like a newly promoted Rear Admiral giving line readings to Ike? How did Ike, as a teenager, recognize the early promise of Kirstie Alley, Sam Kinison and Alfre Woodard and why was Kim Richards secretly kicking and jabbing Ike right in the middle of takes on Witch Mountain!? We cover so much, you’ll listen twice! Current Media Recommendations: Lisa - Hello, My Name Is Doris - Free on Tubi Weezy - Every Year After on Prime Path Points of Interest: Hello, My Name is Doris Trailer Every Year After on Prime Every Summer After by Carley Fortune You'll Never Be A Star by Ike Eisenmann Ike Eisenmann on Facebook Ike Eisenmann on Instagram
June 11 · 1 hr 13 min
When Show Biz Is Your Playground & Commitment To The Character with William Sadler!
From playing army on his boyhood farm to portraying some of film’s more memorable characters, Bill Sadler's journey proves that great storytelling often begins in the simplest places. Bill and Weezy kick things off with shared memories of growing up in the Buffalo, NY area, where running through the woods, horsing around in the hay loft and inventing games, laid the foundation for Bill's future in storytelling. He launched his performance career with a standup comedy character he created called“Banjo Bill,” who led to a high school teacher encouraging Bill to play the lead role in the school’s production of Harvey. By age 18, Bill had shared the stage with a banjo and an invisible rabbit and he was hooked on theater. After studying at SUNY Geneseo and Cornell, Bill immersed himself in the New York theater scene, starring in 75 productions over the course of 12 years and making his way to Broadway in Biloxi Blue! He shares the skinny on working with Neil Simon, where constant rewrites were both challenging and thrillingly hilarious. The conversation turns to some of Bill’s most iconic screen roles, including The Shawshank Redemption. He describes director Frank Darabont’s vision of a true ensemble and the A game expected from that stellar cast. Bill reminds us that the film closed in three weeks and only Oscar nominations and audiences discovering its brilliance led to its eventual cultural impact and enduring legacy. He also discusses stepping into his villainous Die Hard 2 role following Alan Rickman’s iconic fall from the grace of Die Hard 1. Bill also shares a behind-the-scenes moment when force of childhood habit had him ruing takes with his own machine gun sound effects! Fans of Bill & Ted will appreciate Bill’s Grim Reaper hot takes and his confession that in the decades between films, he developed an allergy to the makeup required for the role. So, yes, Bill is allergic to death. The episode closes with a look at Bill’s latest work, the short film The Last Days of Byron Bray, which studies a love interest of Leonard Bernstein. Bill calls it his finest acting to date. And in IMDB Roulette: How the Fonz made Shakespeare cool, Newhart slapstick and The Cartoon President provide the laughter that keeps us from crying. Current media recommendations-- Weezy: The Way Home Season 4 on Netflix, Hallmark, Hallmark+ and Prime Producer Dina: The Boroughs on Netflix Path Points of Interest: William Sadler Fan Site William Sadler on Wikipedia William Sadler on IMDB William Sadler on Facebook William Sadler on X The Last Days of Byron Bray The Boroughs The Way Home Season 4
June 4 · 1 hr 9 min
Family Bonds Beyond The Screen & TV's Reigning Improv Queen with Wendi McLendon-Covey
From improv stages to some of the most beloved comedies of the last two decades, Wendi McLendon-Covey joins Media Path for a lively, laugh-infused conversation about finding and trusting her voice. Wendi looks back on her Groundlings run where she honed fearless comedic instincts and created characters that would define her career. Though she always knew she wanted to perform, it took time, and a leap of courage for her to fully pursue it. While holding down a full time job, she signed up for a bunny slope Groundlings class called “Fun Shop” and stayed for ten years, moving all the way up to seven years in the main company!. She shares behind-the-scenes Reno 911 deep dish! like how she created “Clementine Johnson” (based on a Groundlings character who was based on her real-life aunt) and the back stories behind iconic moments like the drunk catwalk and her Ill-fated “lottery win.” Wendi’s favorite Reno 911 movie iteration is The Search For QAnon which was shot on The Queen Mary during the pandemic. And ghosts being vaccinated by death, the ship was still haunted! A Steely Dan fangirl, Wendi recounts how a storyline revealing her Clementine as a groupie led to an unexpected real-life live show invitation, and an onstage shoutout from Walter Becker! The conversation inevitably turns to The Goldbergs set, where a decade-long run fostered deep bonds among the cast. Wendi reflects on what she misses most, shares what it was like to meet the real Beverly Goldberg, and offers memorable stories about The Goldbergs’ beloved George Segal. Now starring in St. Denis Medical, Wendi tells us how she embraced the role of Joyce and reflects on her career’s ongoing evolution. She also credits her husband Greg as a constant source of support and encouragement throughout her journey. And we learn how Wendi has lent her impeccable comic skill and timing to some beloved and feel-good favorites in a memorable round of IMDB Roulette! Plus, in a perfect Wendi moment, the episode wraps with a roll call of her eight cats! And in current media recommendations, Lisa and Weezy discuss the Netflix comedy competition series, Funny AF with Kevin Hart. Path Points of Interest: Wendi McLendon-Covey on Instagram Wendi McLendon-Covey on Wikipedia Wendi McLendon-Covey on IMDB St. Denis Medical Funny AF with Kevin Hart
May 28 · 1 hr 6 min
Behind The Golden Era's Glitz & A Real-Life Hollywood Heroine with Mamie Van Doren!
The Golden age, silver-screen legend who lived to tell a tale that could have only unfolded in Hollywood , Mamie Van Doren joins Media Path for a candid conversation about a life shaped by resilience, reinvention, and remarkable twists of fate! The woman who helped define an extraordinary era of entertainment and cultural change has chronicled both her escapades and her conquered adversities in a page-turning new memoir called 'You Thought I Was Dead: My Life of Celebrities, Sex and Champagne.’ Mamie traces her grit back to a hard scrabble, Depression era, South Dakota childhood where poverty and hunger were a daily reality. Determined to escape that world, she set her sights on Hollywood, with a little help from lore, intentionally placing herself at a pharmacy soda counter in the in hopes of being “discovered,” just as Lana Turner had been. She was stunning and it worked. She was also 14! What followed was a series of cinematic turning points. Including a TV role, broadcast from The famed Florentine Gardens and a close friendship with cocktail server Elizabeth Short, who horrifically became known as The Black Dahlia. Her brutal loss has affected Mamie profoundly and permanently. Mamie recounts her rapid rise through the studio system after being spotted by a Universal executive, leading to a seven-year contract and her breakout role opposite Tony Curtis (and some handsome USC football stars) in 'All American'. She shares the origin of her now-iconic name, coined by an AP reporter and inspired by First Lady, Mamie Eisenhower. Its coining helped a farm girl named Joanie Olander fully embody her new Hollywood persona. After marrying bandleader Ray Anthony and starting a family, Universal dropped her contract, only to see her quickly courted by other studios. She reflects on love, longevity, and her current 50+ year marriage to Thomas Dixon, as well as the complicated realities of navigating Hollywood at a time when powerful men often operated without accountability. In a deeply personal revelation, Mamie speaks about a terrifyingly dark encounter with Jack Webb that she kept silent for years. He was selling “law and order” when he drugged, tied up and violated Mamie. She reflects now about how much (and how little) has changed. Stories where Hollywood and history intersect are a common thread in Mamie's adventures, such as a romantic interlude with Che Guevara while filming in Buenos Aires, and a dangerous, self-funded three-month tour to the furthest outposts of the Vietnam War to entertain troops. The gravest danger she faced was an on-stage attack at an officers’ club in Saigon. But her time with the troops remains an experience that shaped her perspective on freedom and sacrifice. And IMDB Roulette this week is raucous, racy and romantic, with a trip to the cutting edge of rock ’n roll! Is Mamie the girl who invented it!? In current recommendations -- Lisa: Documentary (directed by our very own Weezy!) Family Band: The Cowsills Story, streaming on Prime Weezy: TV Land original series Younger, streaming on Netflix Path Points of Interest: You Thought I Was Dead: My Life of Celebrities, Sex, and Champagne by Mamie Van Doren Mamie Van Doren on IMDB Mamie Van Doren on Wikipedia Mamie Van Doren on Instagram Mamie Van Doren on Facebook Mamie Van Doren Facebook Group Family Band: The Cowsills Story Younger
May 21 · 55 min
His Music Was A "Mob Hit" & The Legacy Of A Cover King with Tommy James!
From tween garage band beginnings to chart-topping success and a shocking behind-the-scenes story that reads like a Hollywood script, Tommy James, of Tommy James & the Shondells, joins Media Path to share dishy details about his remarkable journey while creating some of the most enduring hits of a generation! Tommy traces his musical roots back to age 12, when he formed his first band, The Echoes, with fellow classmates, a group that would eventually evolve into The Shondells. A job at a local record shop gave him an early education in the retail side of music, and by 14, he was recording his first single. That song, “Hanky Panky,” took on a life of its own when a Pittsburgh DJ began spinning it. From there, it quickly became the biggest record the city had ever seen and launched Tommy’s career overnight. One problem: No Shondells. They had all moved on to college, families and other careers. Tommy club crawled to find Pittsburgh band, The Raconteurs who quickly agreed to become The Shondells. That success led Tommy to shop the record for a deal in New York City. Every top label wanted Tommy. One problem: They had all received a menacing phone call from mobbed up Morris Levy of Roulette Records. Tommy’s dysfunctional mob family relationship provided him with an interesting exchange. He enjoyed complete creative control in the studio, leading to the hits, I Think We’re Alone Now, Mony Tony, Crystal Blue Persuasion and Crimson and Clover… but… Morris pocketed most of Tommy’s money and Roulette’s Genovese Family ties kept The Shondells cranking out hits and selling over 110 million records without complaint. Our conversation explores the stark contrast between the band’s bright, infectious music and the darker realities unfolding behind the scenes, which included ominous intimidation and physical threats. Despite the challenges, Tommy credits that time with giving him an invaluable education in the inner workings of the industry, from production to publishing, lessons that have informed him throughout his career. Today, he brings that rich perspective to his SiriusXM 60s channel radio show, called Gettin’ Together, where he shares the stories behind the songs, offering context only culled from a performer who lived it. He also reflects on writing his memoir, Me, the Mob, and the Music, which he would only publish after the funeral of Vinnie “The Chin” Gigante, the last Genovese Family mobster. Tommy also shares early details about his story’s upcoming adaptation into a mini-series. Plus we’ve got an IMDB Roulette round that’s immersed in the era when variety shows brought teenage audiences their first peek at the real life musicians spinning around their record players! In current media recommendations: Marty: Life Is Short on Netflix and Hazardous History with Henry Winkler on The History Channel and Hulu Path Points of Interest: Tommy James Tommy James on Wiki Me, The Mob and the Music: One Helluva Ride with Tommy James and The Shondells. by Tommy James with Martin Fitzpatrick Tommy James Tour Dates Tommy James on Facebook Tommy James on Youtube Tommy James on Instagram Hazardous History with Henry Winkler
May 14 · 1 hr 18 min
The Roots Of Show Biz Representation & The Seinfeld Alum Club with Phil Morris!
Best known for his unforgettable turn as Jackie Chiles, the fast-talking, high-powered attorney Kramer turns to in Seinfeld, actor Phil Morris joins us for a thoughtful, funny, and full-circle conversation about legacy, identity, and the unexpected paths that lead to a life in show business! Phil shares how his portrayal of the character, famously inspired by Johnnie Cochran, took on a life of its own, leading to national commercial campaigns and even a memorable Honda spot directed by the Coen Brothers. He recalls his Seinfeld audition, in Jerry’s office with Johnnie Cochran’s rhythms and intonations fresh in his mind since they shared the same barbershop! But as Jackie Chiles’ spotlight brightened, the line between inspiration and frustration blurred, culminating in an unexpected cease and desist letter from Johnnie Cochran himself and an awkward barbershop encounter in which Johnnie had to concede that Phil is very funny! Our conversation also explores Phil’s remarkable Hollywood lineage. As the son of Greg Morris, star of the original Mission: Impossible, Phil reflects on how his father’s network TV starring role suddenly transformed their family’s life, and handed them all the weight of being a uniquely high profile example of black representation on television at the time. He shares how a single appearance by his father on The Dick Van Dyke Show helped pave the way for what would eventually become The Cosby Show, and how his own path into acting began almost by accident while working on set as a production assistant. Phil went on to work alongside his father in the Mission: Impossible reboot, and today continues to bring depth to his roles across mediums, from live action to voice work. A devoted comic book fan with an extensive collection, he discusses how his love of superheroes informs performances like his portrayal of Silas Stone in Doom Patrol. Phil also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the unique process of voice acting, whether collaborating in a room full of actors or performing solo, “opposite” himself, plus the emotional impact of meeting fans at conventions who credit his work with making a real difference in their lives. Then we get into an IMDB Roulette that delves deep into some roles while requiring discretion in discussing others! In current recommendations -- Weezy: Movie, Remarkably Bright Creatures in theaters and streaming on Netflix Lisa: Netflix documentary series, Should I Marry A Murderer? Path Points of Interest: Phil Morris IMDB Phil Morris on Wikipedia Phil Morris on Instagram Phil Morris on Facebook Phil Morris on Cameo Remarkably Bright Creatures Should I Marry A Murderer?
May 7 · 59 min
Sustaining Success & Conquering Hollywood Ageism with Anne-Marie Johnson
Best known for her roles as Lynn Williams on Hill Street Blues, Alieen Lewis on Double Trouble and Raj’s wife, Nadine on What's Happening Now!!, Anne-Marie Johnson played Althea Tibbs on In the Heat of the Night, Alycia Barnett on Melrose Place, Sharon Upton Farley on Girlfriends, Liz Shelton on Tyler Perry's House of Payne and Dr. Patel on Days of our Lives. She was also on In Living Color and in this very episode of Media Path Podcast and we do get into it all! Why was her character killed off of Melrose Place? She was told it was because the producers did not know how to write for black characters! Was her experience on Mad About You pleasant? No! Helen Hunt was a nightmare. She absolutely adored working with Raven Simone and with the cast of Diff’rent Strokes. She had a blast collaborating with Keenen Ivory Wayans in the creation of the iconic hooker, Cherry in I’m Gonna Git You Sucka and Anne-Marie gifts us with a blow-by-blow account of how her Oprah knockoff character on Living Single generated a studio audience laugh that lasted for five minutes! Anne-Marie is starring in a new film called, The Addiction Of Hope, written and directed by her husband, Martin Grey. It’s the story of an aging actress who, as roles diminish, is forced to reexamine her life, her priorities and her choices while her sister faces a health crisis. Anne-Marie takes on a rousing round of IMDB Roulette and in recommendations, Lisa loves the new Emily Catalano standup special, Weezy is obsessed with the best selling novel, Theo Of Golden by Allen Levi and both of our hosts vow to explore Funny AF with Kevin Hart on Netflix. Path Points of Interest: The Addiction Of Hope Anne-Marie Johnson on Wikipedia Anne-Marie Johnson on IMDB Emily Catalano Unspecial Funny AF with Kevin Hart on Netflix Theo Of Golden by Allen Levi
April 30 · 1 hr 1 min
Iconic Girl Boss & 80s Pop Culture Deep Dives with Julie Brown!
80s/90s Comedy/Music/Satire Icon Julie Brown joins us and prepare to mop up some tea! Just exactly how did Julie Brown become an MTV trend setter? She made fun of the videos. Fans loved it and the frenzy gave rise to Julie’s very own show, Just Say Julie. We head back to an innocent age when it was still ridiculously ludicrous for the homecoming queen to have a gun. Then we explore the inspiration for Julie’s first film, Earth Girls Are Easy. Getting it made, however, was difficult. Julie starred with Gina Davis, Jeff Goldblum and Jim Carrey and the film launched the music videos, Cause I’m A Blonde and I Like ‘Em Big And Stupid. Next, inspired by the outrageous stories she’d hear from friends who had worked with Madonna, Julie parodied Madonna’s self absorbed doc-noir, Truth Or Dare, with Medusa: Dare To Be Truthful. We talk about Attack Of The 5’2” Women, with a cameo by our own Lisa Arch, in which Julie roasts headline hogs Tanya Harding and Lorena Bobbitt and we compare notes on 100 Things To Do Before High School on which Julie wrote and Lisa played Principal Hader. And finally, we unleash a rousing round of IMDB Roulette where the wheel stops at Happy Days, The Jeffersons, Newhart, Laverne and Shirley, The Incredible Shrinking Woman, Shakes The Clown, The Middle and Camp Rock. Plus, Weezy and Lisa are recommending and discussing Trust Me: The False Prophet on Netflix. Path Points of Interest: Julie Brown Medusa: Dare to be Truthful Attack Of The 5'2" Women Cause I’m a Blonde Homecoming Queen’s Got a Gun I like em big and Stupid Vague Julie Brown on Wikipedia Julie Brown on IMDB Julie Brown on Instagram Julie Brown on Facebook Julie Brown on Youtube Trust Me: The False Prophet Lisa Arch on Instagram Lisa Arch Presents Mother's Day at Flappers Hold You Foundation
April 16 · 1 hr 18 min
Reimagining The Hollywood Dream & A Constant Commitment To The Craft with William McNamara
From growing up on the fringes of Hollywood’s inner circle to navigating the highs and lows of an unpredictable acting career, William McNamara brings a lifetime of stories, and hard-earned perspective, to this episode of Media Path. The seasoned actor has produced a series called The Trouble with Billy, based on his own life (now available for purchase in pre-release) and Billy joins us to reflect on an unconventional childhood shaped by early exposure to the industry. His mom palled around with Valerie Perrine and a very young Billy found himself on sets and at parties with Bob Fosse, Ryan O’Neal, and Elliot Gould, experiences that fueled his desire to earn a spot for himself within the entertainment community. His determination was challenged when his folks, in an effort to shield him from Manhattan’s temptations, sent him away to boarding school at the age of 11. Billy found his way back to NYC by getting into Columbia, auditing film classes at NYU and immersing himself in archival footage at the Museum of Broadcasting. Billy was quickly booking commercials and modeling jobs and when he landed a film role and wanted to drop out of college, his parents threatened to cut him off. He said, “Not a problem. I’ve got $100,000 in the bank.” Billy talks reverently about the impact of the groundbreaking 1992 TV movie Doing Time on Maple Drive, in which he portrays a gay young man named Matt, in the midst of his agonizing journey towards coming out to his parents. This film continues to change and save lives. Behind the scenes on Maple Drive, Billy met the lost and disheveled actor who would play his brother. Unimpressed but willing to lend advice, Billy watched as his co-star, Jim Carrey attacked and mastered the art of dramatic acting. Set to play Montgomery Clift in a TV movie about Elizabeth Taylor, Billy’s mentor Roddy McDowall arranged a rare interlude with Ms. Taylor during which she imparted a cherished memory and acting lesson from her dear friend Monty. Billy’s experience on Dream a Little Dream with the “two Coreys,” was more of a nightmare, trapped inside the undisciplined Coreys bubble which featured them either coming to work or not, depending upon the hangover. Hoping to broaden his range, Billy took on the role of a serial killer which threatened to murder his confidence. Test screenings of Copycat led to weeks of reshoots. Billy was panicking until Roddy brought in his friend Tony for some serial killer coaching. It was Anthony Hopkins! This is a candid, emotional, and deeply reflective conversation about resilience, reinvention, and a turbulent show biz path that has served to inspire William McNamara’s deeply personal new project, The Trouble with Billy. In current recommendations-- Lisa: Twisted Yoga on Apple TV+ Weezy: David Archuleta's Memoir, Devout: Losing My Faith To Find Myself Path Points of Interest: The Trouble with Billy The Trouble With Billy on Youtube William McNamara on Wikipedia William McNamara on IMDB William McNamara on Instagram William McNamara on Facebook Twisted Yoga Devout: Losing My Faith To Find Myself by David Archuleta David Archuleta
April 2 · 1 hr 26 min
Interviewing Legendary Teen Idols & A Trailblazer In 60s Music Journalism with Ann Moses!
Before celebrity culture was manufactured and media-trained, Ann Moses was right in the middle of it, capturing a generation of hot, young stars just as they were becoming icons. In 1966, an 18-year-old Ann Moses landed a position as the editor of Tiger Beat Magazine where she worked until ’72! Ann remembers serving Walt Disney a refreshing orange juice, at the Sunkist booth where she worked at Disneyland and telling him she had written two articles for the employee newsletter. His sage words? “You never know where that will take you.” Armed with a pad, a pen, a tape recorder, a camera and relentless curiosity, she began chasing stories and opportunities. Ann shares how she talked her way into an interview with the Dave Clark Five when they performed at Melodyland Theater in Anaheim. She asked their road manager for just five minutes with the band. They gave her 35 minutes and her career was in gear. Joining Tiger Beat as an intern when it was just five issues deep with a staff of just four, Ann made herself indispensable. Her bosses sent her to clubs, sets, recording studios, and concert halls. She returned with loads of great photos and interviews and got to work writing, editing and creating contests, experiences and content that took readers right along with her. While covering Dino, Desi and Billy, Ann was offered a drink by Dean Martin. She requested a coke. She then sat down with Lucille Ball, for several hours, to talk about her son, Desi Jr. The interview spilled into a lunch where Lucy said, “Enough about me and Desi. Tell me about you.” Tiger Beat’s exclusive access to The Monkees and The Partridge Family found Ann regularly visiting their sets for hours of personal time that led to fascinating stories. Spoiler: Monkee Talk was not actually written by The Monkees and Mike Nesmith spent an entire year avoiding Ann who was more than happy to talk, instead, with his wife, Phyllis. Bobby Sherman could not have been more friendly and amenable. While David Cassidy was also difficult to pin down until a note went home to his dad, Jack Cassidy. Ann opens up about her whirlwind romance with The Bee Gees’ Maurice Gibb, including a European adventure and a shocking revelation at the end of their time together. What’s the last thing you want to hear a man tell you in bed? She heard it! She also reflects on the Tiger Beat vs. 16 Magazine rivalry and she recalls the first time she saw the Osmonds open for Nancy Sinatra and the full-circle moment when she reconnected with Donny last year in Vegas! It’s a joyful, fascinating conversation about a time when fame was more personal, access was real, and one young reporter armed with a camera and a tape recorder, could find herself at the center of it all. In current media, Weezy is ’recommending the documentary Paul McCartney: Man on the Run on Prime. Path Points of Interest: Ann Moses Ann Moses on Instagram Ann Moses on Facebook Ann Moses/Donny Osmond Reunion Meow! My Groovy Life With Tiger Beat's Teen Idols Ann Moses on Youtube Man On The Run
March 26 · 1 hr 5 min
Topping The 80s Charts & How The Clubs Made Radio History with Expose Founding Member Laurie Miller
The story of Exposé includes hit songs, groundbreaking sounds, and a behind-the-scenes journey that is as compelling as the music itself. We sit down with artist manager and producer Ray de la Garza, original Exposé member Laurie Miller, and former Arista Director of Dance Music Promotion David Jurman to discuss Point of No Return: X-posed, the new documentary on Tubi that revisits the rise of the iconic ‘80s vocal group. Formed and popularized in Miami, Exposé’s original lineup (Laurie, Sandée, and Alé) helped bring the freestyle sound to national attention alongside writer/producers Lewis Martineé and Frank Diaz. We dive deep into the breakout single “Point of No Return.” We reveal the ingredients that blend to create its unique flavor and we explore the vibrant club scenes in Miami and New York that fueled the rise of freestyle, often described as Latin hip hop, during a moment when dance music was built by DJs and performed by real musicians. Laurie and Ray take us inside Exposé’s whirlwind launch: flying city to city for radio, press, and club appearances, as Laurie created and shaped the group’s style and choreography. Our guests also open up about the shocking transition that revealed a completely new Exposé lineup at the brink of the group’s first album release. Laurie shares how it felt to watch three new girls ride the momentum they had built. David Jurman offers a fascinating look at the industry side of the music business, explaining the role of a “Billboard-reporting Club DJ” and how hits were made before the internet, guided by one-on-one simple but powerful questions: Can you hum it? Can you remember the name of it? Will you buy it? The conversation expands beyond nostalgia into a thoughtful comparison between then and now: from the decline of club culture and the changing role of live performances, to the challenges artists face today in an era where music lives forever on streaming platforms but attention is harder than ever to capture. In current media -- Weezy and Lisa discuss the Netflix documentary, Louis Theroux: Inside The Manosphere Path Points of Interest: Point Of No Return -X-Posed Ray De La Garza Laurie Miller Exposé on Wikipedia Lewis Marinée XICA Productions (shee-ka) Louis Theroux: Inside The Manosphere
March 12 · 54 min
Family And Other Inspirations & A Creative Female Force In Hollywood with Renee Taylor
The word 'Queen' gets thrown around a lot but actress, comedian, director, writer Renée Taylor is legitimate show biz royalty! This month she turns 93 (or is it 39?) and in honor of the occasion, she is gifting us with a performance of her extraordinary one-woman show, My Life on a Diet, on March 18th in Palm Springs. Renée joins us to talk about her remarkable career, her devoted marriage to Joe Bologna and her resolution to no longer measure her worth by way of her dress size. Renée traces her sense of humor back to her childhood, where by the age of four she knew she would grow up to write about the outrageously nutty character that was her mother. And she has! She tells us how her mother’s belief in destiny shaped her path. Named after silent screen star, Renée Adorée (the poor child had to learn how to type to two acute accents into her name!) She was also, strategically conceived to be astrologically positioned to become an actress! Family would become creative fuel throughout her career. Renée and her late husband and writing partner Joe Bologna drew constant inspiration from their colorful Jewish and Italian families, weaving their relatives into scripts, characters, and stories. Their collaboration produced beloved and award-winning works, including Lovers and Other Strangers and Made For Each Other. Renée speaks movingly about her romantic and artistic bond with Joe, which is ongoing, beyond his passing. She does hear from him and she has honored him in a play which tells their unique story called, Dying Is No Excuse. Renée also reflects on being among the first wave of women writers who broke into the business, and she tells us about her formative friendship with Elaine May, who encouraged her early efforts (even when her first ideas arrived as scribbled thoughts on scraps of paper bags.) Elaine’s advice? “You’re a writer, get some pens and a notebook.” From stage to screen, her stories span entertainment history: She recalls Barbra Streisand opening for her during her early stand-up days and she shares how she landed the role of Eva Braun in The Producers. Mel Brooks says she was an audition standout because she delivered her German lines with a Bronx accent. Of course, we dive into her unforgettable role on The Nanny, where she based her character partly on her own aunt while borrowing nuance from Fran Drescher’s real mother. Renée shares hilarious behind-the-scenes stories, including how a costume designer’s insistence on a girdle helped shape her character’s physicality, what it was like working with Steve Lawrence as her husband Morty and with her own husband Joe as her secret paramour, and why Elizabeth Taylor charged her for a photo together. We also talk about her book and now solo show, My Life on a Diet, as Renée reflects on body image, Hollywood and humor in the face of heartache, and a round of IMDB Roulette that takes us from Black and White cinema to Bob's Burgers! In current recommendations -- Lisa: Netflix documentary, Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model Weezy: Movie Eleanor the Great, now streaming Path Points of Interest Renee Taylor on Wikipedia Renee Taylor on IMDB Renee Taylor on Facebook Renee Taylor on Instagram Renee Taylor on TikTok My Life On A Diet Renée's March 18th Show at The Plaza Theatre in Palm Springs, CA Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model Eleanor The Great
March 5 · 1 hr 18 min
The Evolution Of Entertainment & A Man For Every Imaginable Medium with Sam McMurray!
Character actor Sam McMurray's media path winds through connections, coincidences and many, MANY contacts with industry legends (and assorted relations.) Sam carves a path through the backroads of Friends, The Golden Girls, Freaks & Geeks, Raising Arizona, The King Of Queens and beyond while we scramble to keep up! Raised in New York by actor parents, his dad was on The Edge Of Night. His mom graced Broadway and Off Broadway stages and Sam, an athlete, nursed a high school broken heart by running straight for what felt like home, the school theater. He’s been an actor ever since. His Hollywood career began when he and his wife headed west in 1986. He was quickly cast in The Jeffersons, The Ropers and Hill Street Blues. He was on his way to becoming one of the most recognizable faces on the screen. Sam shares insights from inside a career defined by a wide range of memorable appearances. He tells the story of meeting a 17 year old Matthew Perry while working on The Tracey Ullman Show. It would not be until ten years later that Sam’s stage directions, on Friends, instructed him to smack Matt in the butt. Sam shares his thoughts and concerns about the migration of Hollywood production to other states and countries and how the audition process has become so much less personal via Zoom calls and self-tapes. We discuss the McCarthy era as Sam’s parents were both under fire and even skipped town for Florida when they got wind that a subpoena for his mom to appear before HUAC was heading their way. The red scare and its impact on creative voices has informed the course of his life. We also explore the wide variety of mediums in which he has worked. From television and film to web series, like Then We Got Help! Sam also returned to the stage after many years away. How did he salvage the night when he went up on his lines playing a gravedigger in the 2019 play, Buzz, about groundbreaking British theater director Buzz Goodbody? His story will delight you. He also shares personal anecdotes about legends Jerry Stiller, Anne Meara, Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, Estelle Getty, Rue McClanahan, Kevin James, Steve Martin, and Tom Hanks. And, with refreshing honesty, Sam admits that not every role, in a long career, receives the same level of focus. Some projects demand everything an actor has to breathe life into the part, and he’ll wonder if there was more he could have given. While others, like The Sopranos, are so brilliantly written that embodying the character is a joy. By the time we made our way to IMDB Roulette we knew that this was an interview to be studied and interpreted by future entertainment historians, as Sam guides us through the threads and relationships which become the fabric of our entertainment. In current recommendations -- Lisa: Author & Content Creator Derrick Downey Jr. on Instagram Weezy: The Traitors on Peacock Path Points of Interest: Sam McMurray.com Sam McMurray on Wikipedia Sam MacMurray on IMDB Sam McMurray on Cameo Derrick Downey Jr. on Instagram The Traitors
February 26 · 1 hr 11 min
Redefining The Sitcom Family & True Tales Of Old Hollywood with Stanley Livingston
On My Three Sons, Stanley Livingston grew up, with the boomer generation and with television itself. By the time we came to know Stan as Chip Douglas he had logged over ten credits, performing with Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward, Doris Day, Ozzie & Harriet Nelson, Jimmy Stewart, John Wayne, Debbie Reynolds and Gregory Peck! Stan takes us back to his first gig, as a stunt double for Jon Provost on Lassie. Jon couldn’t swim yet. Stan got stuck in a muddy pond and turned in a tremendously vivid performance as a kid attempting not to drown. His parents met in Baltimore, where his father ran a burlesque theater and his mom put some vahs in her dance voom. In search of reinvention, they moved to California where Stan and his brother Barry were born and raised. With an ample dose of show biz in his blood, Stan felt at home from the first moment he stepped onto a set. He shares the story of his big break at just six years old on The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet. Stan was working as a neighborhood kid extra when Ozzie threw him a line and he delivered. Stan appeared on ten episodes of the show, until he landed My Three Sons and his brother Barry took over. (Then following him to MTS!) At age 13, Stan was cast in the epic, star-studded adventure, How the West Was Won under the legendary (and notoriously hot-tempered) direction of Henry Hathaway. He recounts Hathaway’s explosive on-set tirades (and how Debbie Reynolds was the only cast member bold enough to take him on and yell back!) The experience taught him an invaluable lesson: never take what happens on set personally. Stan speaks warmly of William Frawley, who played Bub on My Three Sons. Stan never knew his grandfathers and Bill did not have kids. They adopted each other and truly cherished their bond, on and off screen. And so, it was difficult for Stan to accept William Demarest who came in as Uncle Charley when William Frawley’s faltering health made it impossible to get him insured. But Stan did eventually warm to the new Bill who came with his own set of charms. We hear behind-the-scenes stories from the MTS set, including a memorable location shoot aboard a jet at LAX, and how producers enticed movie star Fred MacMurray to television by structuring a schedule that allowed him to shoot all of his scenes for the season in just a few months. We enjoy a warm, insightful look at growing up in classic television and celebrate the mentors who helped shape one of America’s most beloved sitcom families. Plus IMDB Roulette spins us back to Old Hollywood and a 'My Three Sons Guest Star Roulette' lightning round! In recommendations -- Lisa: The Chair Company on HBO Weezy: Neighbors on HBO Path Points of Interest: Stanley Livingston Stanley Livingston on Wikipedia Stanley Livingston on IMDB Stanley Livingston on Facebook Golden Age Hollywood Show March 28, 2026 The Chair Company on HBO Neighbors on HBO
February 12 · 1 hr 9 min
Writing TV's Iconic Women & A Front Seat In The Inner Circle with Stan Zimmerman
Co-Host Lisa Arch joins us with our guest, Stan Zimmerman. From a supportive teacher who first recognized his talent to writing some of television’s most beloved episodes, Stan Zimmerman’s journey is a testament to passion, persistence, and perfect timing. He sets it all out in his new book 'The Girls: From Golden to Gilmore,’ which draws from journals he has kept religiously since college, offering a deeply personal look at a life lived inside television history. In a conversation both heartfelt and hilarious, Stan reflects on how he took school theater as seriously as if it were big time show biz, because to him, it was. Theater kids were his tribe, and storytelling was already his calling. That destiny led him to Hollywood, where in his early 20s, at meeting that had not gone well, on his way out the door, he pitched a Hail Mary Golden Girls story idea that launched his career. The episode he co-wrote with his writing partner, Jim Berg is titled “Blanche and the Younger Man.” It earned the team a Writers Guild nomination and carved the trailhead for a groundbreaking career path. Working in the 1980s during the height of the AIDS crisis, Stan recalls how even in Hollywood many people were still in the closet, and that while building career relationships, on a show that would become a gay obsession, he felt pressure to hide his personal life. We also hear stories that could only happen in show business: hanging out with Sandra Bernhard when an answering machine message from Madonna sparked the beginning of their friendship; witnessing Estelle Getty struggle with early-onset dementia on set, and later realizing that Betty White’s jokes to the studio audience, which he thought were at Estelle’s expense, may have been acts of quiet kindness, allowing Estelle space to recover her lines. Stan reflects on the enduring legacy of The Golden Girls, a show whose cultural impact he couldn’t have imagined while he was in the writers’ room. He talks about passing on season one of Roseanne because of a five-year contract commitment, only to later campaign to join the writing staff. (The story behind the “13” on his shirt traces back to that turbulent chapter of his career.) He explains how Roseanne was never about chasing laughs, a lesson that became clear when he later helped develop a Russian adaptation where producers kept asking why it wasn’t funnier. Stan also discusses his longtime friendship with Dan and Amy Sherman-Palladino and how creative circles overlap in surprising ways that found him on the team creating episodes of The Gilmore Girls. And he shares a moving story about working on a Dreamgirls benefit show which almost derailed over stewing conflicts until Stan suggested that Sheryl Lee Ralph, Loretta Devine and Jennifer Holiday just talk, on stage, about their shared history… Suddenly, they were singing. Stan’s stories will inspire you to problem solve, dream and achieve. In recommendations -- Lisa: The Later Daters on Netlflix Weezy: Take That miniseries on Netflix Path Points of Interest Stan Zimmerman The Girls: From Golden To Gilmore by Stan Zimmerman Stan Zimmerman on IMDB Stan Zimmerman on Wikipedia Stan Zimmerman on Facebook Stan Zimmerman on Instagram Golden Girls: The Ultimate Fan Experience Media Path Interview with Michael Fishman Later Daters Take That Documentary Series
February 5 · 1 hr 15 min
Cultural Touchstones & Cult Classics with Adrienne Barbeau
From her first job right out of high school on a USO tour through Asia during the Vietnam War to Maude to screen queen classics, Adrienne Barbeau has costarred with snakes, rats, bugs, Swamp Things, a man-eating ape and Batman! Adrienne joins us to talk about iconic roles, larger than life co-stars (like Rodney and Reynolds) and how at 80, she's doing everything BUT riding into the sunset. At 19, she moved to New York City with a clear promise to herself: She would give theater her absolute all and settle for her backup plan, if need be, only at age 25. By then she was starring on Broadway as Hodel in Fiddler On The Roof with costar Bette Midler as Tzeitel. Adrienne shares firsthand stories from the birth of Grease (MUCH edgier at its inception), where she originated the role of Rizzo. She recalls the electric audience response during previews, and how, fueled by that enthusiasm, producers pushed forward despite harsh critical reviews. From there, Adrienne was discovered by Norman Lear and offered the part of Maude’s daughter Carol in the first All In The Family Spinoff. She found Bea Arthur to be an artist who exemplified collaborative grace, always putting the show ahead of any individual performance. Adrienne opens up about her curious relationship with Burt Reynolds… in fact, a psychic saw her dating a man who was laying on a bearskin, even before she had met him or he had done that! She then shares stories from the chaotic set of Cannonball Run, where she was trying to take the work seriously while many cast-mates were mostly taking alcohol. We talk about her collaborations with John Carpenter and George A. Romero. We delve into Cannibal Women in the Avocado Jungle of Death (which turns out to have surprising literary roots in Heart of Darkness). We play a sizzling round of IMDB Roulette and hear about Adrienne's latest project, the short film Oddities. The episode closes on a meaningful note as we say goodbye to Fritz in his final episode as co-host, and welcome Lisa Arch, who will be joining Weezy for our next episode. In current media-- Weezy: Song Sung Blue, in theaters and streaming Fritz: Marty Supreme, in theaters and streaming Path Points of Interest: Adrienne Barbeau There Are Worse Things I Could Do by Adrienne Barbeau Adrienne Barbeau on Wikipedia Adrienne Barbeau on IMDB Adrienne Barbeau on Instagram Adrienne Barbeau on Facebook Oddities Adrienne Barbeau Amazon Author Page Song Sung Blue Marty Supreme