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.

Subscribe Listen in podnod RSS feed Show website

271 episodes
Updated July 23

Episodes271

Newest first

Jul 10, 2025 · 1 hr
Pioneering A Woman's Voice In TV Comedy & The How To's Of Humor with Carol Leifer
Carol Leifer entered comedy when a woman stand-up was considered a novelty or a niche, but even then she knew "things would eventually change." And change has come, due in no small part to Carol's own stelar show biz contributions. Carol joins us this week to talk about her formative years, her early standup, giving voice to iconic characters like Elaine Benes and Deborah Vance, and her new book, How to Write a Funny Speech! Carol's relationship with her father, an optometrist with an ear for comedy and a quick wit that delighted both patients and family, laid the foundation for her career trajectory. Her supportive parents encouraged her to pursue stand-up when the opportunity struck, and very soon, she was right at home at The Improv and on The Tonight Show. Even within the male-dominated comedy space, Carol found herself buoyed by peers and colleagues, in the clubs and on the sets of seminal sitcoms such as Seinfeld, The Larry Sanders Show and Curb Your Enthusiasm. Carol’s Seinfeld contributions tapped into women’s lived experiences and brought us the skinny mirror, the marble rye and the nail salon, but she reveals which of Elaine's iconic storylines was not her brainchild - 'sponge-worthy' was actually coined by male writer, Peter Mehlman! Enjoy an exciting spin on your favorite podcast showbiz trivia game as we invite Carol to play IMDB Roulette: Writer's Edition, where she dives into the intricacies of writing for: Seinfeld, Curb, Hacks, SNL and Ellen, plus traveling the globe with Henry Winkler, George Foreman, Terry Bradshaw and William Shatner! (She now calls him Bill.) Carol also shares her SNL writing regrets. (If she could only have gotten in better with Lorne.) We talk about her latest runaway hit book How To Write a Funny Speech and close the show with Fritz's favorite new Carol Leifer joke! In recommendations -- Weezy: The HBO original, My Mom Jayne: A Film By Mariska Hargitay Fritz: Netflix documentary, Trainwreck: The Cult Of American Apparel Carol Leifer How To Write A Funny Speech: for a Wedding, Bar Mitzvah, Graduation & Every Other Event You Didn't Want to Go to in the First Place by Carol Leifer and Rick Mitchell Carol Leifer on Wiki Carol Leifer on Instagram Carol Leifer on Facebook Carol Leifer Amazon Author Page My Mom Jayne from Mariska Hargitay Trainwreck: The Cult Of American Apparel Media Path Podcast Media Path on Buy Me a Coffee
Jul 3, 2025 · 1 hr 4 min
Becoming A Creative Leader & Keeping The 70s Music Spirit Alive with Bo Donaldson
Our guests exemplify the power of passion, mastery and skill blending in creating a lasting legacy. We begin with the co-authors of The Creative Leader: What Every Leader Should Know About The Art & Science of Creative Intelligence. Bob Boden and Dr. Robert Carpenter share how we can all better merge and apply our left and right brain thinking. We then welcome a 70s sensation who walks into the studio with the show-and-tell masterpiece that is his authentic Nudie Suit, Bo Donaldson! For their book, The Creative Leader, Bob Boden and Dr. Rob Carpenter interviewed top entertainment industry figures who impart critical insight on how to seamlessly and effectively combine imagination with management, while motivating a team to reach its fullest potential. Bob and Dr. Rob share the wisdom of producers, Jonathan Murray, Stephanie Drachkovitch, Lloyd Schwartz and more, learning that whatever your field, curiosity, innovation, and optimism are keys to success. Cincinnati’s own Bo Donaldson began his music career, mastering the trumpet in fourth grade. He formed The Heywoods at 14, and they were opening for The Rascals, Paul Revere & The Raiders and The Osmonds by the time he was in college. Bo's career was managed by his business-savvy mom, who ran her own record label and was the driving force behind the band's biggest hit Billy-Don't Be a Hero. Bo tells us how that chart-topping single carved a path to stardom for his band and he shares his '70s teen idol memories, including lessons learned from Mark Lindsey, Donny Osmond and Dick Clark. Brace yourself for shady music industry lore as Bo recalls how the VP of his record label threatened his Mom and him with a mob hit, inspiring Bo to heed the lyrics of his own song and keep his head low. Bo shares news about The Heywood’s latest recordings and explains how he shapes his band’s sound. We also learn how to set sea with The Heywoods and a boat full of your favorite artists on a 70s Rock and Romance Cruise! Plus, how well does Bo remember what he confessed to the Teen Magazines!? We play a round of Fan Mag Grab Bag! In recommendations-- Fritz: Netflix Series, Department Q Weezy, Apple TV+ Series, The Buccaneers Path Points of Interest: The Creative Leader by Bob Boden and Dr. Robert Carpenter Bob Boden Bob Boden on IG Dr. Rob Carpenter Amazon Author Page Bo Donaldson and The Heywoods Bo Donaldson on Wikipedia Bo Donaldson on Instagram Bo Donaldson & The Heywoods Fan Site Bo Donaldson on Facebook Bo Donaldson & The Heywoods Facebook Group Rock and Romance cruise 2026 Magic by Bo Donaldson & The Heywoods Bubble Gum Mania at Riviera Theatre Department Q on Netflix The Buccaneers on Apple TV+
Jun 26, 2025 · 1 hr 27 min
Politically Influential Improv Comedy & Show Biz Versatility In High Gear with Hal Sparks
Can your keyboard produce enough hyphens to define Hal Sparks? He is a Comedian-Actor-Musician-Magician-Podcaster-Political Commentator-TV and Radio Personality-Host-Podcast Guest, and beyond. We are hoping his mother keeps a scrapbook. Hal has brought us such memorable characters as “Zoltan” in Dude, Where’s My Car, “Elevator Passenger” in Spiderman 2, Michael in Queer as Folk and he proved too much of an improv master for Talk Soup to contain, which freed him up to host his own podcast empire, to tour with his band, Nerd Halen and with the Sexy Liberals Comedy Show and to guest with us on Media Path Podcast. Hal began sharing his wickedly sharp political observations on video platforms during the pandemic’s early days. He had just left China and lost dozens of friends to Covid. He fully understood the impending danger and devastation. So he hunkered and bunkered and began fact-checking Trump live on Youtube and Twitch. An outlet that released tension for himself and for his politically informed and engaged audience. He calls them “Sparklers!” Hal’s show, Megaworldwide streams daily on his website infotainmentwars.com. Here, he reacts in real time to breaking news and the current political landscape. Hal's strong belief in the power of the electorate to enact real change inspires his work and he endeavors to be a part of the conversation shaping the narrative of the Democratic party. We ask Hal to tackle today's top headlines, the targeted attacks on Iran's nuclear missile sites ordered by Trump and the schism it's causing within the MAGA movement, as exemplified by prominent figures who find themselves at odds on the issue, like Ted Cruz and Tucker Carlson. We also discuss how traumatic childhoods and a lack of empathy underpin the mindset of the current administration. We follow the money that funds right wing influencers. We explore Elon Musk's technocratic family legacy. And we are front and center for the latest from Hal’s comedy cover band, Nerd Halen. Then, we take a tour through Hal's scene-stealing film and TV moments with a round of IMDB Roulette which includes Chopper Chicks in Zombie Town, Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman and, of course, Dude, Where’s My Car! In recommendations-- Fritz: History Channel series, Kevin Costner's The West Weezy: HBO Max documentary, Surviving Ohio State Path Points of Interest: Hal Sparks InfotainmentWars Hal Sparks on Instagram Hal Sparks on Facebook Hal Sparks on Bluesky Hal Sparks on Youtube Hal Sparks on Wiki Nerd Halen The West - History Channel Surviving Ohio State
Jun 19, 2025 · 1 hr 3 min
Stories of 60s Child Stardom & Decades of Thriving in Show Biz with Kathy Garver!
You may know Kathy Garver from Family Affair but her career before and since “Cissy” is expansive! She is still extraordinarily prolific with a calendar full of film dates, audio book recordings, and event appearances! Kathy began’ singing and dancing at age three and had already racked up 12 screen credits when she was cast as an extra in The Ten Commandments. From high atop his director crane, Cecile B. DeMille spotted her carrying a lamb and jumped down to write her a larger role as “Rachel the Slave Girl,” a part that brought her face to face with Charlton Heston as he parted The Red Sea! At age 20, she was whisked from her UCLA sorority house to a sitcom set when she landed the role of big-sister “Cissy Davis” in one of CBS’s first color shows, Family Affair! Kathy tells us how her mother employed Streaks N' Tips to match her dark locks to those of her TV siblings. The resulting greenish hue did not detract Ed Hartmann from casting the perfect sibling for Buffy and Jody. Kathy shares her thoughts on why her younger co-stars struggled to adjust into their adult lives. She credits her smooth transition to her supportive family and spending her high school years in San Bernardino, away from the judgement of Hollywood. In IMDB Roulette, Kathy talks about sharing credits with Fred Astaire, Bing Crosby, Kurt Russell, Chuck Connors, Patty Duke, Julie Andrews and Andy Griffith. Kathy has amassed an impressive body of voice work, which includes playing Firestar in Spider-Man and His Amazing Friends. She has also mastered the craft of audio-book narration with her most recent work being, Elvis, Rocky & Me: The Carol Connors Story, coming in July. We hear about Kathy’s, many books, her slew of upcoming projects and appearances, her unrelenting optimism and her belief in the 'divine threads' of people and events which are creating the fabric of her life. In recommendations-- Weezy: HBO Max Documentary, Pee Wee As Himself Fritz: Netflix Series, American Manhunt - Osama Bin Laden Path Points of Interest: Kathy Garver Kathy Garver - Wiki Kathy Garver - IMDB Kathy Garver - Instagram Kathy Garver on Facebook Kathy Garver Facebook Fan Page Kathy Garver's Photos and Books Kathy's Jun/July 2025 Newsletter Whittier Comic Con on June 22 Elvis, Rocky & Me: The Carol Connors Story Audiobook Gus Pee Wee As Himself American Manhunt - Osama Bin Laden
Jun 12, 2025 · 1 hr 4 min
Writing, Voice Acting & Entertainment Career Building with Nick Bakay!
You may know him best as the voice of Salem The Cat or Norbert from Sabrina The Teenage Witch and Angry Beavers but Nick Bakay is also the Writer/Producer who brought you Mom, King Of Queens, Paul Blart Mall Cop and Bookie. What does it take to sustain a multi-decade entertainment industry career? Versatility. Nick takes us deep into Sabrina lore with tales of the old-school imagineering of Salem Saberhagen, brought to us via several cats, puppeteers, animatronics, trainers and cat treats. A Buffalo, NY native, Nick’s facility at performing, writing, and producing allowed him to create opportunities for himself that were both entertaining and rewarding. He’s heard from a generation of young women who felt empowered by Sabrina to take on adult life, even without the benefit of witchcraft. Along with his pal Keven James, Nick went from writing on King Of Queens to creating Paul Blart: Mall Cops One and Two, and Zookeeper. And it was his writing chops that forged a connection with Chuck Lorre, providing Nick with an opportunity to write for Two And A Half Men and go on to helm nine seasons of Mom, HBO’s Bookie and an upcoming Netflix sitcom, Leanne. Nick is also a household name to sports fan who see his work on ESPN. He was recently inducted into the Buffalo Broadcasting Hall Of Fame and, a Quick Buffalo Indulgence Warning: Nick and Weezy do get a little carried away waxing sentimental about their shared Buffalo roots. Fritz is using one of his sick days and his seat is kept warm by Weezy’s radio buddies, Tom Murphy and Scott Paton. (They did occupy separate chairs, but you get the idea.) In recommendations-- Weezy: Sirens on Netflix Nick Bakay: Mr. Inbetween on FX and Hulu Path Points of Interest: Sirens Mr. Inbetween Nick Bakay - Wiki Nick Bakay - IMDB Sabrina The Teenage Witch The Angry Beavers Bookie Mom Paul Blart: Mall Cop 1 Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2 Salem Saberhagen World Famous Tom Murphy
May 29, 2025 · 1 hr 10 min
Ruling The Broadcast TV Era & Navigating Hollywood's Landscape
He has entertained tens of millions of people over the course of four decades with iconic film and TV appearances, yet he remains humble and modest - He is Mystic Pizza, Falcon Crest and Perry Mason (to name a few!) actor, William R. Moses! His Mom, Marian McCargo and big brothers, Rick and Harry Moses were in the business and, although his step-dad, Congressman, Alphonso E. Bell did not entirely approve, Billy, a high school and college athlete found himself pulled towards acting. A typical Take-Your-Kid-To-Work day found young Billy on the set with Leonard Nimoy, Fess Parker and John Wayne! Or on Capitol Hill with Ted Kennedy, Gerry Ford and Bob Dole. Ample inspiration to dream big! Billy’s resume includes the iconic prime time soaps Falcon Crest and Melrose Place, the role of Marc Christian, Rock Hudson's boyfriend, in a groundbreaking film about the legendary Hollywood and LGBTQ history figure, and he has the distinct honor of sharing his feature film debut, in the movie Choices, with fellow newby, Demi Moore! As attorney and P.I. Ken Malansky in NBC's Perry Mason TV film series, Billy worked closely with Raymond Burr and, as it turns out, our own Fritz Coleman who guest starred on an episode entitled, The Case of the Telltale Talk Show Host. From a Mystery Cruise Ship with the Olsen twins to Perry Mason’s Colorado courtroom, to the magical setting of Mystic, Connecticut, to his first Negroni on The Love Boat set with Eddie Albert to valiantly attempting to keep Viola Davis from Getting Away With Murder, Billy’s stories provide a front row seat to the show biz of the glorious final few decades of the 20th century and journeying on into the aughts and beyond. In recommendations-- Weezy: The Lost Passenger by Frances Quinn Fritz: Mobland on Paramount+ Path Points of Interest: William R. Moses on Wiki William R. Moses on IMDB Perry Mason TV Movies Mystic Pizza Mystic Pizza Restaurant Mobland - Paramount+ The Lost Passenger by Frances Quinn The Case of the Telltale Talkshow Host Media Path Podcast
May 22, 2025 · 1 hr 11 min
Exploring Family Band Dynamics & Testing 'Cowsills' Knowledge with Vicki Peterson, John Cowsill & Bob Cowsill
It's a return trip down the Media Path for Vicki and John and this time Bob is along for fun, games and Cowsill family lore! We welcome back Vicki Peterson and John Cowsill, who recently joined us to talk about their collaboration on a new album of songs written by John's late brothers, Billy and Barry Cowsill, 'Long After the Fire', plus fellow founding Cowsills member, Bob Cowsill joins the conversation. We start at the dawn of Vicki’s Cowsills journey, as a fan who became a friend who became a spouse. A seven-year-old, Vicki’s big sister Debbi said, “You know, there’s a girl your age in this band.” Vicki was instantly sold and she spent her allowance savings on the We Can Fly album. In 1977, when Vicki learned that a friend of a friend knew Bob’s Cowsill, Vicki gave him a call to talk vocal harmonies. Vicki and Debbi were still bubbling under as The Bangs and they went to see The Cowsills perform at a local club. Just a few years later, Bob found himself invited to The Bangles Platinum party and John recounts his meet-cute with Vicki, right before his marriage to someone else! We test the Cowsill/Peterson crew on self-knowledge with a game we like to call 'Are You Better Informed Than Google?', Vicki and John share what took them two married decades to work together and Bob gives his perspective on John and Vicki's new album of Billy and Barry Cowsill covers. Bob and John share how their generational split affected their musical influences and experiences within the band and we hear about the earliest days of the Cowsills, their father Bud's early clash with brother Richard, performing at Brown frat parties as young kids and their first demo song recordings. And the games continue as everyone takes on some Cowsills Trivia Roulette from Becky Presley's Cowsills site! In recommendations-- Fritz: Book, Miss May Does Not Exist by Carrie Courogen Weezy: Hulu Series, Devil in the Family Path Points of Interest: The Cowsills Becky Presley’s Cowsills Page Vicki Peterson and John Cowsill Vicki and John on Instagram Vicki and John on Facebook John Cowsill John Cowsill on Facebook John Cowsill on Instagram John Cowsill on Wiki Vicki Peterson on Wiki The Bangles Vicki Peterson on Facebook Becky Presley Trivia Miss May Does Not Exist: The Live And Work Of Elaine May, Hollywood's Hidden Genius by Carrie Courogen Devil in the Family
May 15, 2025 · 1 hr 12 min
How To Make Pop Culture History & The Creative Depths Of Rock Stardom with Rick Springfield
The whole world knows Rick Springfield, the performer, songwriter, idol, rock star, actor, hitmaker....but the real Rick is an introspective deep thinker who has overcome wrenching personal and professional obstacles while remaining true to his purpose and authentic self. Rick joins us this week to talk about a remarkable career trajectory, a new album, a coffee table book and an upcoming national tour! Rick realized at an early age that he was destined to make art, setting off on a unique journey which began in the suburbs of Sydney, then took him to England during the early days of the legendary British rock scene, back to Australia where he launched his music career and then deep into Vietnam to perform for the troops during the height of the Southeast Asia conflict in the late '60s. Rick shares astonishing recollections of playing live in an active war zone, ducking for cover in the middle of a set, flying in an Apache helicopter and his nearly fatal encounter with a grenade. Rick was able to secure a record deal that brought him to America, but while his first single, Speak To The Sky, landed with a flash, he quickly fell into a personal and career rut that lasted 8 years. Rick spent the disco era sticking true to his hook heavy power pop sound and eventually came up swinging with the instant classic Jessie’s Girl, followed by 16 more top forty hits! Simultaneously, Rick’s side hustle landed him on the soap that was addicting millions, General Hospital. Rick played Noah Drake who he describes as a better kisser than doctor. Rick’s autobiography, Late, Late at Night is raw and honest about his struggles with bouts of deep depression. Therapy and medication have helped him and he’s gratified that sharing his truth has been a beacon to others but he feels that music is the greatest comfort. That and possibly rum (use responsibly) Rick and Sammy Hagar have launched the Beach Bar Rum company. All of the above, plus a round of IMDB Roulette which takes Rick from Wonder Woman to Meryl Streep. (Often mistaken for the same person.) In recommendations-- Weezy: The Four Seasons, Netflix Series Fritz: Documentary, Pope: The Most Powerful Man in History Path Points of Interest: Rick Springfield Rick Springfield on Wiki Rick Springfield on IMDB Rick Springfield on Apple Music Rick Springfield on YouTube Music Rick Springfield Shop 2025 Tour Dates Rick Springfield on Instagram Rick Springfield on Facebook Rick Springfield on X Rick Springfield on TikTok Lose Myself Video The Four Seasons on Netflix The Four Seasons film on Netflix Pope: The Most Powerful Man in History Media Path Website
May 8, 2025 · 1 hr 5 min
The Persistent Draw of Titanic & A New Perspective On A Historic Tragedy
Author, performer, podcaster, interviewer and host Nelson Aspen has covered a lot of ground in his highly prolific career, but he continues to return to one spot in particular, figuratively speaking: 41°43'32" N, 49°56'49" W...better known as the location of the most well known and intensely chronicled sea-faring vessel in history: White Star Line's RMS Titanic. For Nelson, his interest in the famed ship seems fated - He's felt a lifelong affinity with Titanic passenger, Milton Long! And Nelson shares Milton’s story in a new historical fantasy/semi-autobiographical/reincarnation novel, Kindred Spirits: A Titanic Tale. We know that Milton met fellow passenger, Jack Thayer aboard Titanic. They were together as the ship went down. One lived. One perished. Is it a gay Titanic love story? Historical records point to the reality that a budding affection between the two men was developing at sea. As the ship met her fate, only women and children were permitted in lifeboats which were being sent into the water half full. Their only hope was to jump. Jack launched himself into the water and balanced on an overturned collapsable lifeboat for hours before his rescue. Milton slid down the now nearly vertical banister and was sucked beneath the ship where he died. Titanic and Milton remained with Jack for long after the tragic events of April 14, 1912. Nelson's book builds on a metaphysical premise that allows readers to examine a unique juxtaposition between the constraints of Edwardian morals and the life-affirming spirit of the contemporary LGBTQ community. We discuss the documentary 'Ship of Dreams: Titanic Movie Diaries' which Nelson worked on with Alexandra Boyd, his co-host on the Titanic Talk podcast, which captures the extent of the impact the 1997 movie made on all who were involved with the production. Nelson shares his thoughts on why modern audiences continue to gravitate to the liner's ill-fated maiden voyage, his thoughts on collecting Titanic artifacts, why no single person or entity can shoulder the blame for the tragic event, plus where he's heading on his upcoming appearances and the latest installment in his semi-autobiographical series, Dancing Between The Raindrops! In recommendations-- Fritz: Netflix Series, The Residence Weezy: The Dark Money Game on HBO Path Points of Interest: Nelson Aspen Kindred Spirits: A Titanic Tale Nelson Aspen Amazon Page Ship of Dreams Titanic Talk Podcast Nelson Aspen on YouTube Nelson Aspen on Instagram Nelson Aspen on X Nelson Aspen on TikTok The Residence-Netflix The Dark Money Game Dark Money: The Hidden History of the Billionaires Behind the Rise of the Radical Right by Jane Meyer
May 1, 2025 · 1 hr 1 min
The Business of Child Stardom & A Family of Hollywood Trailblazers with Keith Coogan
When family stories become show biz stories, the world listens. Fitting that very bill we’ve got actor Keith Coogan, the grandson of the original child star, Jackie Coogan, whose namesake law in the state of California, is the first to safeguard the rights of young performers in Hollywood. Keith talks about growing up with this legend plus his own iconic roles as a prolific film and TV child actor! Keith's career proves that show business blood runs thick: He told his mother he wanted to act before he even knew of his family legacy. His great grandfather, Jack Coogan Sr. was a Vaudeville and silent film star. His grandfather, Jackie Coogan was known, in the 1920s as, “the most famous boy in the world!” Keith began booking roles by the age of eight and quickly became a go-to casting choice, for TV guest spots and commercials starring Henry Fonda and Robert Morse. Keith’s show biz success made his grandfather proud but a little jealous and relieved when Keith developed into a working actor rather than America’s darling. Keith tells us about the legendary events, which led to The Coogan Act - After Jackie’s father died in a car crash, the young superstar’s hard earned fortune was squandered by his stepfather. Passed in 1939, The Coogan Law requires that a portion of a child's earnings be placed in a blocked trust account until the child turns 18. Keith recalls with great fondness his experiences working with stellar casts and crews on the “Babysitter” cult greats, 'Adventures in Babysitting', and Don’t Tell Mom The Babysitter’s Dead. Plus Toy Soldiers, The Waltons and The Fox and The Hound. We play IMDB Roulette and get into Laverne and Shirley, Mork and Mindy, and Little House! In recommendations-- Weezy: Netflix series, North of North Fritz: Book, How Democracies Die by Daniel Ziblatt and Steven Levitsky Path Points of Interest: Keith Coogan Keith Coogan on Wikipedia Keith Coogan on IMDB Keith Coogan on Instagram Keith Coogan on X Keith Coogan on YouTube Keith Coogan on Facebook Keith Coogan Merch North of North How Democracies Die by Daniel Ziblatt and Steven Levitsky Media Path Podcast
Apr 17, 2025 · 1 hr 6 min
The Complexities of Adolescence & The Real Life Drama of Medicine with Lesley Boone, Dina and Ryder Friedman
We have entered an exciting new TV drama era in which creators are immersing viewers in the gritty, heart wrenching details of real life trauma. We are celebrating this provocative and inspiring new chapter by focusing on two of the most buzz-worthy shows in the stream-os-phere, The Pitt on Max and Adolescence on Netflix - Prepare for a fresh frame of reference on the emerging television landscape! The Netflix show Adolescence is sparking tons of discussion, and we are entering the dialogue via our producer Dina Friedman who watched the limited series with her 13-year-old son, Ryder. As a portrayal of a young man who's accused of murdering a classmate, presented without cuts, Adolescence is a bold, ambitious and unflinching production in both form and content. As a serving middle-schooler, Ryder offers unique insights into social media, bullying and the relationships between middle schoolers, technology and their parents. Ryder shares his opinion on the online “’manosphere” and incel' culture which Adolescence explores and he talks about the forces currently shaping his peers' friendship and romantic interactions, while Dina provides the parental perspective. Lesley Boone is also with us to discuss her role as night shift charge nurse Lena on the Max medical show beloved by audiences, critics and medical insiders, The Pitt. Another unique production, The Pitt, which has been lauded as perhaps the most realistic hospital drama to date, is shot in sequence, with star actors, serving as background extras when a scene requires that perspective shift. Lesley shares behind-the-scenes insights and her views on what makes the show stand out within the medical procedural genre. She tells us how medical professionals and veterans work both on and offscreen, ensuring authenticity. For example: That nurse you see in the background operating a heart monitor or swapping out a fluid bag is an actual nurse! Lesley talks about the impressive professionalism of Noah Wyle, the medical training received by the cast and she shares the trade secret that allowed an actor with a fork stuck up her prosthetic nose break for lunch! In recommendations -- Weezy: Netflix documentary Bad Influence: The Dark Side of Kidfluencing Fritz: The book FIGHT by Jonathan Allen and Amie Parnes Path Points of Interest: Lesley Boone on Wiki Lesley Boone on IMDB Lesley Boone on Instagram The Pitt on Max Adolescence on Netflix FIGHT by Jonathan Allen and Amie Parnes Bad Influence: The Dark Side of Kidfluencing
Apr 3, 2025 · 1 hr 6 min
A Dynamo's Impact On Showbiz & Tracing The Timeline Of Women In Comedy with Jo Anne Worley
The exuberantly effervescent Jo Anne Worley, queen of the quip and paradigm of the pizzazz, turns our studio into a cabaret club this week, dazzling and delighting with stories of show biz daring do… her fearless stage style, her bold reach for brilliance, behind the scenes lore from the set of Laugh-In and a fabulous flurry of anecdotes and memories from an unrivaled career. The girl from Lowell, Indiana knew she was destined for the business when she distracted the most vicious teacher in her two-room schoolhouse with a hilarious crack that saved the hide of another student. After high school she hit the ground and then the train running out of her tiny town towards the Pickwick Players and a life in theater, where she literally ate the scenery, salting and snacking on a tomato during a key court scene in The Mikado. Jo Anne built an all singing and dancing nightclub act because, at the time, women did not talk on stage. Her comic gifts so impressed Merv Griffin’s wife, it lead to her frequent appearances with Merv on his show and a chance to audition for George Schlatter, creator of Laugh-In. Her iconic role on that revolutionary sketch show earned her a permanent spot in pop culture and entertainment history and she shares with us some deep insider info: How John Wayne gallantly lifted her down from the joke wall and that time a mime, Marcel Marceau, perfectly impersonated this vocally resonant performer without a sound. No one makes an entrance, or unleashes a song parody or lights into a Bob Hope story like Jo Anne Worley! So strap in for hilarity. What did Jo Anne say to Jerry Lewis to earn her spot in his comedy workshop? What’s it like to share a fence with Jonathon Winters? And we’ve got a rollicking round of IMDB Roulette that serves as a masterclass in the glory days of entertainment. In recommendations-- Weezy: Tetris, Apple TV+ Movie and The Tetris Murders doc Series on Max Fritz: Hulu Sitcom, Mid-Century Modern Path Points of Interest: Jo Anne Worley on Wiki Jo Anne Worley on IMDB Actors and Others for Animals Actors and Others for Animals Ebay Items Billy Barnes Bash at Catalina Jazz Club on April 27th Ruta Lee's Birthday on May 30th Tetris (The Movie) The Tetris Murders MId Century Modern on Hulu Media Path Podcast
Mar 27, 2025 · 55 min
Was Sinatra a Good Tipper + Dolly, Cher & More Stories From A Legendary Comic & Opener to the Stars!
We've always suspected that the key to uniting our polarized nation may lie in our shared entertainment, and now we have definitive proof. It comes in the form of comedian Bobby Collins who has toured our nation and beyond, many times over, performing in states of every color, at USO and U.S. embassy shows abroad, and at political events for both parties. He comes to us with insights from the front lines. Bobby prides himself on bringing his relatable and comforting brand of humor to increasingly divided audiences from one state and one venue to the next and he’s here to talk about how he navigates these politically perilous times, and he’s delivering road stories from touring with the biggest names to ever grace a stage! Bobby's comedy career seemed predestined when his parents named him after Bob Hope. And Bobby was primed for the spotlight watching his parents’ joyful reaction to the comics who appeared on Ed Sullivan. After a short detour ( as an executive at Calvin Klein!) he brought a date to the comedy club, Catch a Rise Star, and when she was ready to leave, he called her a cab and stayed to soak in more comedy. He began honing his craft there and was soon asked by the owner if he’d like to MC. One night, a business card handed to him turned into an invitation to open for Cher. From there, he went on to tour with Frank Sinatra, Julio Iglesias, Tony Bennett and he tells us about his bumpy ride with Dolly Parton who reached out for forgiveness in her book! Bobby does not shy away from 'doing' politics, but his material seeks our common humanity and gives voice to observations upon which we can all agree, replacing darkness and anger with the welcome recognition of our similarities. After shows, people often tell him how his act brought them much needed healing and comfort, arguably more crucial now than ever. Also, was Sinatra a good tipper? Why did Cher make Bobby sweat? And how did Julio manage to truncate a dressing room visit from Donald Trump!? In recommendations -- Weezy: Netflix Series, Adolescence Fritz: Paramount+ Series, Landman, streaming on several platforms Path Points of Interest: Bobby Collins Bobby Collins Wikipedia Bobby Collins Standup 90s On The Inside by Bobby Collins Bobby Collins - Facebook Bobby Collins on Youtube Bobby Collins on Instagram Bobby Collins on TikTok Adolescence Landman, Paramount, Netflix and others
Mar 20, 2025 · 1 hr 40 min
A Lifetime of Loving Harmony & And Musical Family Bonds with Vicki Peterson & John Cowsill
Two artists who have left an indelible mark on American music are, in actual fact, a married couple with a brand new album on the verge of dropping. The Bangles' Vicki Peterson and The Cowsills' John Cowsill join us! Differences between these two abound: New England vs. Southern California origins, 60s family pop vs. 80s girl-band rock, drums vs. guitar; but the parallels are even more striking.... Both Vicki and John were raised by Top 40 Radio, they began performing very young and played in extraordinarily influential bands with their siblings. And so importantly, they share the honor of touching audiences with music that became lifetime soundtracks. Their new collaborative album, 'Long After the Fire' (including the about-to-drop-on-March 21st-single, 'Is Anybody Here') features covers of songs written by John's late brothers, Billy and Barry Cowsill. It was an uphill battle to acquire the rights to license the music, but thanks to Vicki's tenacity and their producer’s rich industry knowledge, Vicki and John have leaned the expanse of their talent and exquisite harmonies into this very personal project. Vicki tells us about her rock stardom ride with the Bangles and John shares his early worries that having entered professional show biz at the age of seven, his career chose him and therefore the subsequent attention often felt embarrassing. We also talk about, 'Family Band: The Cowsills Story’, a documentary that Weezy made about the Cowsills. We discuss John's time with the Beach Boys, Vicki’s collaborations with her sister-in-law, Susan Cowsill and Vicki and John give each other the business with the well-earned nicknames, ‘Child Star' and ‘Rock Star’. Plus, we have a round of IMDB Roulette for the ages and an exclusive, in-studio performance! Path Points of Interest Vicki Peterson and John Cowsill Vicki Peterson and John Cowsill on Youtube A Thousand Times Video Vicki and John on Instagram Vicki and John on Facebook John Cowsill John Cowsill on Facebook John Cowsill on Instagram John Cowsill on Wiki Joey's Song Vicki Peterson on Wiki The Bangles Vicki Peterson on Facebook Norman's Rare Guitars Documentary Viet Nam: The Way That Changed America - Apple TV
Mar 13, 2025 · 1 hr 23 min
A Tireless Classic Hollywood Star Turns 90 & The Secret To A Perfect Speech with Ruta Lee and Rick Mitchell
A Golden Age Hollywood star in every sense, at just 16 Ruta Lee was cast in the all-time great movie musical, 'Seven Brides for Seven Brothers', subsequently becoming the designated smoldering beauty, spicy sexpot and fiery vixen in iconic TV Westerns, mysteries and dramas of the '50s and '60s. She is celebrating her 90th birthday in classic Ruta fashion: with a one-woman show, fabulously titled 'Consider Your Ass Kissed! This week she brings her legendary inside showbiz lore and boundless energy to the Media Path studio! Ruta's story begins with her Lithuanian background and parents who escaped the oppression of the Communist regime to Montreal, Quebec, where Ruta was born, singing and dancing. Her mother reached out to a Lithuanian priest in Los Angeles and thus began the plan to head for Hollywood. Ruta’s Hollywood High training prepared her to land roles on The George Burns & Gracie Allen Show, The Roy Rogers Show and then iconic films including Funny Face with Fred Astaire and Audrey Hepburn and Sergeants Three with The Rat Pack! Ruta recounts her heroic efforts to extract her Grandmother from a Siberian internment camp. She took her request straight to Khrushchev! She tells us about her work with The Thalians, an organization founded by Hollywood actors to help children receive mental health care. Also, what is Audrey Hepburn's keep-slim advice? And what job yielded Ruta the most lucrative income? And with public speaking being our number one fear, Rick Mitchell joins us to talk about his new book, one of the most crucial reference guides of all time, 'How to Write a Funny Speech for a Wedding, Bar Mitzvah, Graduation & Every Other Event You Didn't Want to Go to in the First Place'! In recommendations-- Weezy: "Reality Winner Noir" - Reality (2023) on Max and Winner (2024) on Hulu Fritz: 'Nickel Boys' now streaming on Prime Path Points of Interest: Ruta Lee Consider Your Ass Kissed by Ruta Lee Ruta Lee in “CONSIDER YOUR ASS KISSED” At The Purple Room in Palm Springs, Saturday & Sunday, March 29th and 30th at The El Portal Theatre, Friday, May 30th, 2025 Ruta Lee on Wikipedia Ruta Lee on Facebook The Thalians Rick Mitchell How to Write a Funny Speech Buy Links Nickel Boys (2024) Reality (2023) on Max Winner (2024) on Hulu Media Path Podcast
Mar 6, 2025 · 1 hr 1 min
Powerful Playwriting & Collective TV Icon Memories with Anson Williams, Linda Purl & Sharon Scott Williams
Sharon Scott Williams bares her soul in a play called Crazy Mama, a powerful, personal story that's at once unique and wholly relatable. It's about family, mental illness and the bonds and devotion that propel us to protect and defend those we hold dear. Crazy Mama is running at the Rubicon Theatre in Ventura, CA March 26 - April 6, 2025. It stars Linda Purl and is directed by Anson Williams, both icons of classic TV, including Happy Days, and one of whom is married to playwright Sharon Scott Williams. (You only get one guess which.) Sharon came home from school, at the age of eight, to find her mother wielding a knife, in a psychotic episode. The ensuing events led to extended hospitalization and a diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia. Her family’s coping heroism inspired her, decades later, to write a memoir, which Sharon’s husband, actor and director Anson Williams (Yes, you guess correctly), felt would make an astonishing one-woman stage show. With Linda Purl in the starring role (playing 16 different characters!) the stage play of 'Crazy Mama' gives audiences the opportunity to reflect on their own experiences and it provides a conduit to conversations about mental illness, trauma and family dynamics. Sharon tells how the crafting of the play inspired the processing of her long buried, confusing emotional cocktail of fear, guilt, shame, and anger and with similar Virginia ancestral roots, Linda identified instantly with the work and the power of its messages. Plus, Sharon, Anson and Linda all claim Covid Love stories! Sharon, an Ojai, California Real Estate agent, had shown Anson a house a decade earlier. But, with both of them single, she received a text invitation from him for lunch! They spent the pandemic falling in love. Linda ran into an acquaintance with a very similar show-biz history, Patrick Duffy. Their mutual friend, Richard Thomas paved the way and their Zoom friendship blossomed into romance! Also, we are proud to present our all-new IMDB Roulette Sub Genre quiz sensation, Were You On It, featuring full disclosures about Anson and Linda’s appearances on: Baywatch, The Waltons, The Secret Storm, Fantasy Island, Black Market Baby and I Married A Centerfold! In recommendations-- Weezy: Documentary Beatles 64 on Disney+ Fritz: Documentary Becoming Katharine Graham on Amazon Prime Path Points of Interest: Crazy Mama at The Rubicon Theatre Anson Williams IMDB Anson Williams Wikipedia Anson Williams on Facebook Linda Purl IMDB Linda Purl Wikipedia Linda Purl on Instagram Linda Purl in "POSSIBILITIES - songs of HOPE, RISK and MAYBE" at Catalina Jazz Club in Hollywood Beatles 64 - Disney+ Becoming Katharine Graham - Amazon Prime
Feb 27, 2025 · 1 hr 14 min
The Many Chapters of a Thrilling Career & Chronicling a Survivor's Stories with Arnetia Walker & Erika Kahn
Arnetia Walker has lit up stages and screens for decades and she joins us this week to review her stunning show biz resume, including her latest entry, Bookie, the Chuck Lorre Max comedy on which she is currently slaying as Grandma. We are also joined by artist and Holocaust Survivor Erika Kahn, a first-hand witness to the consequences of authoritarian rule, scapegoating, and nationally sanctioned brutality. Erika offers vital insight for us in our fight against a dangerous wave of fascism. Orphaned as a child, Arnetia Walker’s showbiz career began at New York City's High School for the Performing Arts where her talent and dreams were nurtured and encouraged. Arnetia was embraced by a similar culture of community and support when she won her first Broadway role with Hal Linden in The Sign in Sidney Brustein’s Window and then A Raisin in the Sun. Both Lorraine Hansberry's plays. With a favorable alignment of the stars and talent recognition from Michael Bennet, Arnetia went from understudying Stephanie Mills in The Wiz to co-starring in Dreamgirls… a show within which she ultimately played every starring character. (But not on the same night.) As gifted an actor as she is a singer, Arnetia talks about her slew of TV appearances, including her lead role in the Witt Thomas Harris sitcom, Nurses and the circumstances under which that part prevented her from being cast in E.R. Currently, she is stealing every scene as the ruthlessly direct Grandma in Bookie. Arnetia shares what it's like to work with Chuck Lorre and Sebastian Maniscalco. She tells us about her cabaret era and her passion for cooking and she boldly takes on a round of IMDB Roulette that jars some treasured TV memories! Then, Centenarian Erika Kahn recalls her childhood in Nazi Germany, and she contrasts and compares the climate which led to the Nazi atrocities with that of our current perilous pivot point in America. Erika is a tenacious activist whose words of hope and optimism are essential for those of us taking on the rise of American fascism. In recommendations -- Fritz: Netflix Series 'American Manhunt: OJ Simpson' Weezy: The Movie 'Studio One Forever' (2023), streaming on several platforms Path Points of Interest: Arnetia Walker Arnetia Walker on IMDB Arnetia Walker on Wikipedia Arnetia Walker on Tiktok Bookie Erika Kahn We Played Marbles: Remembering A Stolen Childhood A documentary featuring Erika Kahn American Manhunt: O.J. Simpson Studio One Forever
Feb 20, 2025 · 1 hr 7 min
Documenting Trump & Realizing The Show Biz Dream with Gregory Harrison and Brian Karem
In the 1970s, Gregory Harrison went east to Hollywood. The son of Catalina Island’s glass bottom boat captain, Gregory began dreaming of a career in acting when a Doris Day movie was filmed on and named after his father’s Glass Bottom Boat. Now 120 IMDB credits into his career, Gregory joins us for a debriefing. After serving as an Army medic during the Viet Nam War, Gregory’s guest star appearance on MASH in 1976 foreshadowed his earning the role of Gonzo Gates on Trapper John MD in 1979, which was around the time Trapper began to look more like Pernell Roberts than Wayne Rogers. Gregory starred in the TV version of Logan’s Run, a role that required a lot of running, which trained him for an appearance on Battle of the Network Stars where he met his future wife, Randi Oaks (competing for a rival network.) He’s most proud of his role in Centennial, the epic mini-series based on the James Michener novel. A TV event so beloved that fan gatherings are held today where enthusiasts can tour the original sets! Gregory just completed a three and a half year run on General Hospital, his first soap, on which he got to guest star with his daughter, Lily Anne Harrison. Hallmark fans know him as Joe O’Toole on the Signed, Sealed and Delivered movie series. And a fun fact is that the 8x10 glossy that Gregory is most often asked to sign is a shirtless pose from the TV movie, For Ladies Only, in which a struggling actor makes ends meet by stripping. Who, amongst us with a rock hard body doesn’t relate? Also joining us is journalist and former White House correspondent Brian Karen. Brian is directing a documentary titled Trump: The First 100 Days. (It’s a horror movie.) His new book is called Free The Press and his upcoming event at The Comedy Chateau in North Hollywood on February 27th is Free Speech and Comedy with special guests Tom Arnold and Hal Sparks. In Recommendations — Fritz: Sly Lives! The Burden of Black Genius - Hulu Weezy: James by Percival Everett Path Points of Interest: Brian Karem on Wikipedia Free Speech and Comedy at the Comedy Chateau, February 27th Free the Press Just Ask the Question Podcast Gregory Harrison on Wikipedia Gregory Harrison on IMDB Trapper John MD Pilot Trapper John MD Opening Logan's Run Series Falcon Crest Signed, Sealed and Delivered Movies Centennial Mini-Series Sly Lives! The Burden of Black Genius - Hulu James by Percival Everett
Feb 13, 2025 · 1 hr 22 min
Creative Expressionism In All It's Forms & Spiritual Healing Through Buddhism with Alexander Polinsky
Alexander Polinsky began his showbiz career on stage, at seven, and soon landed a role on one of the 80s’ biggest sitcoms, Charles in Charge. From there, Alex followed his imagination into working as a toy maker, a magician, a chef, a clown, a musician and a voice actor. Alex joins us to share stories about his Universal backlot adventures, his spiritual healing journey and his new album! Alex comes from an acting lineage. His parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles were performers and by age ten, he had acquired more fame than anyone yet in the Polinsky acting dynasty. But the pathway to happiness has been more circuitous. Alex played Adam Powell (who had Charles in Charge of him from ages 10 to 16.) Not the best supervision. Alex stepped forward during the #MeToo movement, along with his co-star, Nicole Eggert, to allege that he was persistently bullied, tormented and sexually harassed by the star of the show. Charles in Charge was not a safe set for children but Universal had recently turned their backlot into a theme park and Alex enjoyed the run of it… to the point where his adventuring through attractions triggered lasers that awakened floods and giant apes! He had the opportunity to learn from veteran actors and special effects masters. Lessons and wisdom that informed his future endeavors. Alex transitioned from actor to toymaker, designing the molds that shaped icons of creative play… Polly Pocket and the talking Pee Wee Herman doll. But he dreamed of becoming an action figure and his voice over work has shrink wrapped exactly that! He voices Control Freak in Teen Titans, Argit in Ben 10 and Darington in Blaze and the Monster Machines. All now action figures! Alex's parents valued spirituality, and when he was ready to begin his healing journey he turned to Buddhism and its tenets of mindfulness and self-discovery. His fascination with the Theravada school of Thai Buddhism recently brought him to a monastery in Chiang Mai where he studied its history and is planning on recording the audiobook version of the biography of influential monk Ācariya Mun Bhūridatta Thera! Alex’s band with Johnny Vallone is called Make Magic. Their new album is Before Your Very Eyes and they describe their music as evocative, emotional, impressionistic, alt rock/pop with a theatrical flair. All that plus a rousing round of IMDB Roulette! In recommendations -- Fritz: The movie Conclave, Streaming on Several Platforms Weezy: The PBS Series Funny Woman Path Points of Interest: Alexander Polinsky Alexander Polinsky on IMDB Alexander Polinsky on Wikipedia Make Magic Make Magic on Spotify Make Magic on Apple Music Ācariya Mun Bhūridatta Thera biography Alexander Polinksy on Instagram Alexander Polinksy on Tiktok Alexander Polinksy on X Conclave (2024) Funny Woman - PBS Media Path Podcast
Feb 6, 2025 · 1 hr 35 min
Why The Golden Girls Never Age & Disco Didn't Die with Frank DeCaro & Jim Colucci
We are celebrating The Golden Girls and Disco! The masterful creative output of the 70s and 80s continues to inform and inspire! Diving deep to illuminate this point are coffee table book couple, Jim Colucci and Frank DeCaro. Jim’s book, Golden Girls Forever: An Unauthorized Look Behind The Lanai is packed with hundreds of exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes and never-before-revealed stories, more than two hundred rare photos, Golden Girls sets, fashion, memorable quotes and more. Jim tells us about The Rule of Four, led by Blanche, Rose, Dorothy and Sophia that’s become a sitcom template. He shares the secret formula to Golden Girls’ success. Great writing x phenomenal performances. We address what fueled the Betty/Bea personality clash, and we learn how Maude, Soap and a skit promoting NBC's new 1984 programming sparked the conception of a show about women of a certain age that changed friendships, social norms, and how we view cheesecake, forever. Frank's book, Disco: Music, Movies, and Mania under the Mirror Ball, is a comprehensive guide to the queer, club music that became a dance sensation, a fashion craze and a mainstream lifestyle. Gay men and black women created the driving rhythms of Disco music and dancing, but white men, like the Bee Gees and Travolta, carried it on a shimmering wave through middle America. Studio 54's denizens were draped in skimpy haute couture while the masses were obsessed with themed merchandise, examples of which have become iconic pieces of modern kitsch. We also hear about Frank and Jim's meet-cute, Jim's first journalism assignment at a mobbed (never pardon our puns) Soprano's casting call, and the conversation doesn't end until it reaches its logical conclusion: the Nancy Walker factor. In recommendations -- Weezy: The movie Dreamin’ Wild on Hulu Fritz: The documentary, Ladies And Gentlemen... 50 Years of SNL Music on Peacock Path Points of Interest: Jim Colucci Golden Girls Forever: An Unauthorized Look Behind The Lanai Jim Colucci Amazon Author Page Jim Colucci on Instagram Frank DeCaro Frank Decaro on Wiki Frank Decaro Show Facebook Group Frank Decaro on Instagram Disco: Music, Movies, and Mania under the Mirror Ball Frank Decaro Amazon Author Page Dreamin' Wild - Hulu Ladies And Gentlemen... 50 Years of SNL Music - Peacock