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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271 episodes
Updated July 23

Episodes271

Newest first

Jan 30, 2025 · 1 hr 19 min
Giving Life To Legendary Characters & The Realities of a Career On Stage with Kelly Bishop and Sam Harris
Kelly Bishop, legend of stage, screen, chorus lines and iconic television joins us to talk about her magnificent book, The Third Gilmore Girl! Kelly’s media path took her from Broadway dancer to a Tony winning performance in A Chorus Line to her partial culpability for putting Baby in a corner in Dirty Dancing to Friday night dinners with Lorelei and Rory as Emily Gilmore. And the journey continues… As Kelly’s book and this conversation reveal, she did it all with grace, charm, dedication, diligence and humility. First, we speak with singer/actor Sam Harris, whose rocket ride aboard starship Star Search launched him into millions of living rooms with his celestial rendering of Over the Rainbow. After battling Covid related vocal issues, Sam is readying his triumphant return in a stage show he calls, Beyond The Rainbow. Sam and Fritz discuss their shared history at a little Santa Monica nightclub called The Horn where they honed their crafts and were both discovered! Then Kelly Bishop tells us how her work ethic and confidence were shaped by a nurturing mother, who ran interference against her neglectful father, teaching her ballet and carving a path for her to reach for her dreams. Kelly shares how inspired she has been by show runners Amy Sherman and Dan Palladino and how taking on the role of Emily Gilmore allowed her to explore the relationship she witnessed between her mother and her grandmother. She also talks tenderly about her love story with her husband, Journalist Lee Leonard, her surprisingly primal response to the death of her father and her treasured friendships with Amy Sherman-Palladino and Lauren Graham. Kelly also gives us some hints about the newest Palladino project, Etoile, which is coming soon to Prime. All this plus rounds of IMDB Roulette and Gilmore Girls Trivia! And in recommendations - Weezy: The Echo of Old Books by Barbara Davis Fritz: Netflix Movie 'The Teacher's Lounge' Path Points of Interest: The Third Gilmore Girl by Kelly Bishop Kelly Bishop Wikipedia Kelly Bishop IMDB A Chorus Line on Broadway Kelly Bishop - At The Ballet Dirty Dancing The Gilmore Girls Gilmore Girls IMDB Gilmore Girls Opening Song Media Path Podcast "Emily Gilmore" Youtube Page Sam Harris https://www.samharris.com/ Sam Harris at the El Portal Theatre https://elportaltheatre.com/beyondtherainbow.html The Teachers' Lounge https://www.netflix.com/title/81725559 The Echo of Old Books by Barbara Davis https://www.amazon.com/Echo-Old-Books-Novel/dp/1542038162/
Jan 23, 2025 · 59 min
Creativity Through Comedy & A Trailblazer's Signature Standup Style with Paula Poundstone
Paula Poundstone’s incandescently brilliant wit and comedic wisdom are world renowned and she is widely celebrated as an author, radio personality, voice actor, podcaster and touring comic. Paula is carving her indelible imprint into popular culture and she shares with us her decades of show biz stories, insights and observations. One of the most recognizable voices on NPR, Paula takes us backstage with Garrison Keillor and the Wait, Wait… Don’t Tell Me team, for a peek into the creation of legendary radio broadcasts. As an author, Paula taps into her courage, her curiosity and her personal experiences to amuse and inspire. Her book, There's Nothing in This Book That I Meant to Say, features parallels Paula has discovered between her own history and that of additional legendary figures such as Joan of Arc and Beethoven. Her newest book, The totally Unscientific Study of the Search for Human Happiness finds Paula seeking happiness through various means, including taekwondo, mediation, volunteering, camping and renting a Lamborghini. Fritz and Weezy find that happiness lies in hearing Paula talk about this book. Paula then discusses standup history, writing, travel, crowd work, East and West Coast clubs, comedy scenes across time zones and decades, and the rivalries between key L.A. venues which made or broke careers. Fritz and Paula dig deep into standup experiences and shared backgrounds for a a masterclass in the spirit and ethos of standup comedy! And in recommendations - Weezy: Season 1 of The Way Home, A Hallmark Channel Series Fritz: The Netflix Movie, Emilia Perez Path Points of Interest: Paula Poundstone Paula Poundstone on IMDB Paula Poundstone on Instagram Paula Poundstone on Youtube Paula Poundstone on Facebook Current Tour Nobody Listens to Paula Poundstone Podcast NPR’s Wait, Wait… Don’t Tell Me Merch Store There's Nothing in This Book That I Meant to Say The Totally Unscientific Study of the Search for Human Happiness The Way Home on Hallmark Emilia Perez - Netflix
Jan 16, 2025 · 1 hr 11 min
Writing Mary Poppins' Music & Growing Up With Composer Legends with Jeffrey Sherman
Producer/Writer/Director/Composer Jeffrey Sherman eagerly went into the family business, following his grandfather, Tin Pan Alley Songwriter Al Sherman and his Dad, Robert B. Sherman of the legendary Disney Songwriters, The Sherman Brothers. Jeff and his cousin Greg Sherman’s film, The Boys, chronicles their fathers’ Disney journey from Annette Funicello’s hit single, Tall Paul, through The Disney Songbook of Mary Poppins, The Jungle Book, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and legendary Disneyland Park rides including It’s A Small World (After All!) Jeff joins us along with HIS next-gen musical son Alex, who offers up one of his beautiful songs. Jeff talks about his remarkable childhood which found him on sets with his Dad, at scoring sessions for Tom Sawyer and touring Disney Studios with Walt Disney! Jeff also describes the fraught relationship between his Dad and Uncle which somehow forged treasured tunes that have brightened the world. In celebration of its 60th anniversary, ABC and 20/20 recently aired 'The Untold Story of Mary Poppins, co-produced by Jeff and his cousin Greg. For this production, The ABC News archive doors swung wide open and the cousins discovered early drawings, backstage footage, archival interviews and the audio tape recordings of the Sherman Brothers attempting to win the hardened heart of the famously crusty Mary Poppins Author, P.L. Travers. The special also details how the Sherman Brothers both spotted Julie Andrews performing a scene from My Fair Lady on The Ed Sullivan. Each sensed that she would be a perfect Poppins but knew that the pick needed to be Walt’s idea and so Broadway tickets were arranged and on cue, he walked backstage and offered Julie Andrews the part. The special also includes interviews with Julie Andrews, Dick Van Dyke and today’s legends who have been moved and inspired by The Sherman Brothers including Lin-Manuel Miranda, Tom Hanks and Emily Blunt. Jeff shares that through the noise of his father and uncle’s contentious relationship, they both loved him and were generous with lessons and opportunities to visit sets, sit in on recording sessions and ask questions of greats like John Williams and Irwin Kostal. Jeff received piano lessons from his Tin Pan Alley Tunesmith grandfather, Al Sherman and Jeff’s polio vaccine inspired the beloved classic, A Spoonful of Sugar. All that plus Alex Sherman remembers his grandfather and performs an original tune! Path Points of Interest: Jeff on Facebook Jeff on YouTube Jeff on IMDB The Untold Story of Mary Poppins The Boys: The Sherman Brothers' Story Entrance by Jeffrey Sherman Alex Sherman Robert B. Sherman Richard M. Sherman Based on a True Story - Peacock Saturday Night Movie
Jan 9, 2025 · 1 hr 20 min
A Scream Queen Childhood & The Critical Fight For Animal Rights with Linda Blair!
We’ve got Linda Blair! Pioneer Scream Queen, 70s and 80s Hollywood Trailblazer, Golden Globe Winner, cult classic icon, animal rights activist and humanitarian, Linda joins us for an exclusive conversation about her path to self discovery in a terrifying lane she navigated solo, carving her way towards light and purpose. Linda and Fritz share a history in philanthropy. They catch up on The Linda Blair Worldheart Foundation, dedicated to rehabilitating and rehoming abused, neglected and abandoned animals. We then trace Linda’s groundbreaking history from her work as a child model to landing the controversial role of a child possessed by the devil in the film adaption of THE book of the decade, The Exorcist. Linda then faced the bumpy task of discovering self while convincing friends, fans and reporters that she was not actually demonic. She went on to define the message-driven TV movie genre in Sarah T. Portrait of a Teenage Alcoholic and Born Innocent. But how could she say no to Exorcist II, co-starring Richard Burton? Raised in the Protestant faith, charity, benevolence and helping the voiceless were ingrained in Linda from childhood. For the past several decades she has been dedicated to animal welfare and she shares the most pressing concerns on that front: 1) Corporate owned veterinary clinics pricing pet owners out of spaying and neutering, 2) Mass euthanasia in dog shelters and 3) The outlawing and extermination of breeds deemed to be “dangerous.” We delve into Linda's experience on the set of The Exorcist where much of what was asked of her by director, William Friedkin was not healthy or appropriate for a child actor. She did share a close bond with writer, William Peter Blatty and she describes how Max Von Sydow would often hear the lines given to Linda, stop the scene, pull Billy Friedkin aside and say, “What are you doing!?” But Friedkin got what he wanted, a terrifyingly controversial film that stunned and horrified the world. A household name since the age of 14, Linda matured into a young actress with head turning, Rick themed romantic relationships, such as Rick Springfield and Rick James! Linda shares how her Pumpkin headed turn on The Masked Singer helped her solve a medical mystery. She describes her heroic rescue of 51 dogs after Hurricane Katrina and she takes on a challenging round of IMDB Roulette. Plus, Fritz and Weezy are recommending Bad Sisters on Apple TV + and the Telepathy Tapes podcast. Path Points of Interest: Linda Blair Linda Blair on Wikipedia Linda Blair on Instagram Linda Blair on Facebook Going Vegan by Linda Blair Linda Blair World Heart Foundation Linda Blair World Heart Foundation on Facebook Linda Blair World Heart Foundation on IG Linda Blair World Heart Foundation on YouTube The Telepathy Tapes Bad Sisters Trailer
Dec 19, 2024 · 1 hr 11 min
An Appreciation of Randy Newman & The Age of Print Media Music Journalism
Randy Newman is one of the most misunderstood and under-celebrated musicians of the modern era. Reknowned Music Journalist/Author Robert Hilburn’s new book, A Few Words in Defense of Our Country is the definitive Randy Newman biography and Bob joins us to spotlight the genius and the legend of a great American musician and storyteller. Robert Hilburn was the music critic for the Los Angeles Times for 35 years and he’s written books about John Lennon, Paul Simon, Bruce Springsteen and Johnny Cash. Bob tells us that Newman (much like Simon) had to be convinced to have his legacy chronicled. Randy grew up in a legendary musical family in which tooting your horn (metaphorically) was frowned upon. His uncles composed movie scores and they taught Randy to let the work be your voice. We hear about Randy’s challenging childhood, the pressure he felt to succeed in music and how success, once achieved, incurred his father’s envy. Throughout his career, Randy’s best childhood friend, Lenny Waronker (who became a record exec) believed in him, opened doors and cheered his efforts. Diving further into Randy’s work flow, creative struggles and anxiety-taming efforts, Bob illuminates Randy’s genre-bending and cultural interrogating musical achievements. We also delve, with Bob, into the influence once held by music critics in the golden ages of both print media and the music industry. We discuss the futures of recorded music and journalism and Bob tells us about his favorite interview ever… with Bob Dylan… and that one time he went to Folsom Prison with Johnny Cash. Plus, Weezy recommends the original Apple TV+ movie, Blitz and Fritz is currently into the new series Rivals, streaming on Hulu and other platforms. Path Points of Interest: Robert Hilburn Robert Hilburn on Wikipedia A Few Words In Defense of Our Country: The Biography of Randy Newman by Robert Hilburn Robert Hilburn Amazon Author Page Robert Hilburn on X Amanda Petrusich Blitz on Apple TV Rivals - On Several Platforms
Dec 12, 2024 · 1 hr 13 min
The Christmas Song Turns 80 & A Talent Agent To The Icons with Joel Brokaw, James Tormé & Melissa Tormé-March
These children of showbiz legends are ensuring that their fathers’ memories and legacies live on. We speak with James Tormé and Melissa Tormé-March about their Velvet Fog of a dad, Mel Tormé, as we approach the 80th anniversary of his incomparable contribution to the holiday music canon, 'The Christmas Song'. Then Joel Brokaw joins us. His new book 'Driving Marilyn: The Life and Times of Legendary Hollywood Agent Norman Brokaw' chronicles the history of William Morris star-maker, Norman Brokaw, known to Joel as Dad. Melissa and James share their enthusiasm for Oy! To the World Christmas with a Twist, a new musical playing this month at North Hollywood's El Portal Theatre, which features their father's music alongside a hit list of Christmas classics composed by Jewish-American songwriters. James and Melissa take us back to the sweltering July day in 1945 when their Dad and Bob Wells attempted to beat the heat with wintery lyrics and remained sweaty but created magic by conjuring “Chestnuts roasting on an open fire…” They rushed the song over to Nat King Cole who was in at a few bars and proudly led a parade of 80,064 recorded covers, including James’ own version! The Torme kids share their Torme Christmas memories which include their dad and contraband Christmas movies! Then Joel shares his family's history as a Ukrainian vaudeville acrobatic act that segued into the agency business when his Uncle, Johnny Hyde became VP of William Morris, discovered Marilyn Monroe and took on his young nephew, Norman to drive and accompany Marilyn to events. Starting in the mailroom, Norman worked his way up to CEO. We hear about his working relationships with Marilyn Monroe, Kim Novak, Colonel Tom Parker, Dick Van Dyke, Gerald Ford, Mark Spitz, Barry Gordy and so many other greats. Joel talks about his complicated history with a father whose clients received his primary caregiving. Joel grew up with TV stars spending weekends by his pool, monopolizing his Dad’s attention. But what were the qualities that made Norman so affective as a talent mentor? We learn the magic ingredients and hear how Norman took the new fangled TV department and made history with Loretta Young, Barbara Stanwyck, Dick Van Dyke and Andy Griffith. Joel also talks about Norman's relationship with Bill Cosby and how his father’s dementia buffered him from the horrors of Cosby’s crimes. And, finally, what was the fate of Norman's sacred, secret keeping Rolodex? Plus, this week Weezy recommends Nutcrackers on Hulu and Fritz is all about Thelma, now in theaters and on streaming platforms. Path Points of Interest: Oy! To The World James Tormé James Tormé on YouTube James Tormé on X The Christmas Song by James Tormé James Tormé at Kookaburra on 12/21 Joel Brokaw Driving Marilyn by Joel Brokaw Norman Brokaw on Wiki Nutcrackers on Hulu Thelma - Streaming in Most Places
Dec 5, 2024 · 1 hr 1 min
Advantages of Character Acting & And The Best 70s Hollywood Hangs
We sit down with actor Bruce Davison. With almost 300 IMDB credits, shelves full of awards and a slew of illustrious co-stars and stories about A-listers whom he befriended pre-fame-and-fortune, Bruce is brimming with fantastic tales that feature some of the most influential figures in visual media history. Bruce joins us to talk about his career, from his start in the '60s, all the way to current projects coming soon to a streaming platform near you! Bruce’s film career took off with a jolt as he found himself starring in the provocatively X-Rated, coming of age saga, Last Summer. Bruce takes us back to the set with Richard Thomas and Barbara Hershey where soundtrack contributor, Robbie Robertson taught him first guitar chords. We talk about Bruce’s childhood, growing up in a military family in Philadelphia, the practical career advice he received from director Robert Aldrich: Be a character actor! Wisdom he gained from Anthony Quinn and the horror and heartbreak behind his Golden Globe-winning performance in 1989's Longtime Companion, the first theatrical feature to address the AIDS epidemic, which was written by Fritz's step-brother, Craig Lucas! We dive further into Bruce's remarkable Hollywood history with a round of IMDB Roulette (patent-pending) which takes us into private gambling parties with Dino, Desi, Billy, Lucy and Frank Sinatra! Sunday afternoons with Scorsese and DePalma at Margot Kidder's beach house. And we learn the truth behind why Bruce appears as only an extra in Close Encounters. His pal Stephen Spielberg said, “No one want so see the guy from Willard stepping off a spaceship.” Just how often does Bruce have to answer a question about Rats? To whom does he give credit for the greatest scenes he’s ever performed…? The writers. David E. Kelley, Taylor Sheridan, Craig Lucas and beyond. Additionally, did you know that Bruce is a talented painter? We sample his works and hear about his inspirations. We get backstage insights from the set of Ozark and Bruce shares dish on his latest projects, including movies with Beau Bridges and Dee Wallace. Plus, Fritz and Weezy are recommending Return of the King: The Fall and Rise of Elvis Presley, and The Remarkable Life of Ibelin, both on Netflix. And get ready for a Keri Russell deep dive, beginning with The Diplomat which will pull you happily into all four seasons of Felicity! Path Points of Interest: Bruce Davison IMDB Bruce Davison Wikipedia Bruce Davison on IG 25 Miles to Normal Camera (2024) Suitable Flesh (2023) The Remarkable Life of Ibelin - Netflix Return of the King: The Fall and Rise of Elvis Presley on Netflix The Diplomat Felicity
Nov 21, 2024 · 1 hr 21 min
Breaking Ground With Cult TV & Fierce Advocacy For Child Actors with Claudia Lamb
Are Hollywood's youngest stars in any less danger now than those of past eras? We pose this question to Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman’s Claudia Lamb. At age 11 she was cast as Mary’s daughter Heather Hartman in the groundbreaking Norman Lear soap parody. Claudia offers a front row view to her traumatic life as a 70s child star, at the mercy of her abusive parents and insight into how she gnawed through their shackles to pursue a radio journalism career and become a champion for today’s child actors. Claudia was a gourmet meal ticket to her criminally exploitative parents who squandered all her money as she cranked out hundreds of commercials and print ads as a toddler who was shoved into the spotlight and dragged by her angry and brutal mother to audition after audition. Claudia candidly conveys the extent of the violence and terror inflicted by her narcissistically cruel mother as Claudia’s labor, throughout her childhood supported the entire family while alienating her five brothers. Her talent and intelligence branded her as a go-to for commercial producers, where, as a stand-by, she frequently replaced the principal. Then at the age of 11, after being pummeled by her mother for a poor math grade, (working kids needed to keep their grades above a C average) Claudia was dragged to a cattle-call populated by every chubby, frizzy haired 13 year old in Hollywood. Claudia, a scrawny, pigtailed 11 year old nailed the reading and was instantly cast as Heather Hartman where she treasured her three years on the set of Norman Lear's outrageous, unprecedented soap satire. Claudia tells of marathon filming sessions, (five episodes a week) with no cue cards or teleprompters. (Louise Lasser would scribble her lines on the kitchen table!) She celebrates the immense talents of Mary Kay Place, Martin Mull and Fred Willard, and shares fabulous anecdotes about Donny and Jimmy Osmond (The Donny & Marie Show filmed next door) and how Claudia was nearly crushed by a mob of fans who spotted her chatting up some Osmonds and jumped a fence to get in on that action. Claudia is frank in her assessment of the adults who let her down as she endured her mother's abuse. Her bruises were in clear view of the wardrobe department. At the age of 18, Claudia put Hollywood in her rear view and became an award winning journalist who now speaks to parents about the reality and dangers posed to children by show business. Weezy offers a supporting view, recommending Demi Lovato’s new documentary on Hulu and Disney + called Child Star. Fritz is captivated by the Hulu series adaptation of Patrick Radden Keefe’s best-seller about “The Troubles” in Ireland, Say Nothing. And Claudia weighs in on recs with a doc called Casa Bonita Mi Amor on Paramount +. Path Points of Interest: Claudia Lamb on IMDB Claudia Lamb on Wikipedia Claudia's Blog Claudia Lamb on Bluesky Claudia Lamb on Twitter/X Claudia Lamb on Instagram Child Star on Hulu and Disney+ Say Nothing on Hulu Casa Bonita Mi Amor
Nov 14, 2024 · 1 hr 12 min
The Unrelenting Relevance Of Norman Lear & Amplifying Marginalized Voices
Are you looking for comfort, distraction, hope or optimism? We are serving it up with recommendations to soothe, calm and quiet your spirit, plus two inspirational guests! Andrew Jameson is a writer/producer/director who brings his skillset to his advocacy work and Norman Lear biographer Tripp Whetsell joins us to celebrate a life and a body of work that continues to inform, inspire and amuse generations. Andrew's new project Faces of the City is a series of six documentary shorts which focus on critical community organizing work that is addressing social and economic challenges facing San Francisco's most vulnerable residents. Andrew shares his insights into ways in which the wealthy tech sector, at-risk populations and the city's unique history and culture can unite to forge a balance that would result in more favorable outcomes for all Bay Area citizens. Then, author/journalist Tripp Whetsell joins the conversation to discuss his new book, Norman Lear: His Life and Times. Deeply steeped in Lear Lore, Tripp teaches a class on Mr. Lear at his almamater Emerson College. His richly researched biography traces the groundbreaking writer/producer's life from his bumpy childhood with a criminal father through his 52 combat missions over Nazi-occupied territory and across his wide swath of history making television. We get into all of the All in the Family controversies from its provocative scripts to the epic standoffs between Mr. Lear and Caroll O’Connor. From there,Tripp takes us through the spinoffs: Maude and The Jeffersons, to the spinoffs of spinoffs: The Facts Of Life and Diff’rent Strokes. Each one, a trailblazer, boldly addressing themes like race, class, bigotry, feminism, divorce, homosexuality, rape, mixed marriage and menopause. Mr. Lear’s remarkable cocktail of capabilities included creativity, business instincts, courage under pressure, casting genius and a unique ability to foster relationships with the network execs and censors who came to understand that his controversial content translated into buzz, influence and profits! Plus the whole Media Path team is recommending content to stream while you avoid the news, curl up and sip something soothing. Path Points of Interest: Andrew Jameson on IMDB Faces of the City Trailer Tripp Whetsell Norman Lear: His Life & Times Tripp Whetsell Amazon Author Page Tripp Whetsell Book Soup Signing Abbott Elementary Nobody Wants This Gilmore Girls High Potential on ABC/Hulu Travelers on Netflix Dark on Netflix The O.C. Matlock Elsbeth Parks & Recreation Religion, Democracy and the 2024 Election with Brad Onishi
Oct 31, 2024 · 1 hr 12 min
A Career of Reinventing Comedy & Influencing Culture On Every Medium with Harry Shearer
Harry Shearer has been delivering groundbreaking comedy that's the stuff of legend for decades, starting off strong as a child actor on The Jack Benny Program, then cutting off every edge in The Credibility Gap, pioneering the mockumentary with This Is Spinal Tap, bringing us over 20 voices in the most culturally relevant animated series of all time, The Simpsons and continuing to revolutionize radio since 1983 with Le Show. Harry joins us to delve into the magnificent lore which permeates his storied career. We dive deep on Burns, Smithers, Skinner, Flanders, Spinal Tap, SNL and Nixon. Plus, today’s cutting edge motion capture technology is bringing us, from Trump Anti-Social, A Message For Kamboola, with Harry as Trump, now on Youtube. Harry shares Spinal Tap 2 updates, details about the night he, Christopher Guest and Michael McKean opened for themselves as The Folksmen to the din of the angry chant, “TAP! TAP! TAP!” along with news about Derek's solo masterwork, Smalls Change. We hear about what makes voiceover work for The Simpsons unique within the animation world, the audio breakthroughs which led to his stunning series which reenacts the actual Nixon tapes, Nixon’s The One, and his unpleasant experiences with Lorne Michaels on SNL. Harry also tells us about the recent digital archiving of his extensive Le Show catalogue which is now all publicly accessable, dating back to 1983. All this, and a round of IMDB Roulette. With almost 200 credits in play, where will the big wheel stop!? Plus, Weezy tells us about her personal and professional connection to The Comeback on Netflix and Fritz gives us his passionate take on Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen And The E-Street Band on Hulu. Path Points of Interest: Harry Shearer Trump Anti-Social Presents A Message For Kamboola Harry Shearer on Wikipedia Harry Shearer on IMDB Harry Shearer on Simpson Wiki Harry Shearer on Facebook Harry Shearer on Twitter Harry Shearer on Instagram Spinal Tap II Le Show The Comeback - Netflix Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen And The E-Street Band - Hulu Nixon’s The One on Youtube Mark Felt and Roy Cohn on Firing Line Gift of Democracy Media Path Podcast
Oct 24, 2024 · 1 hr 9 min
A Modern Take On Folk Tales & Industry Inclusivity with Mindy Sterling, Debra Wilson and John Paizis
John Paizis is the creative force behind Performing Arts Studio West whose focus is elevating the talents of performers with intellectual and physical disabilities. Together with friends of the studio, Mindy Sterling and Debra Wilson, John joins us to talk about their latest project, a storybook which puts a dark, new twist on age old fairytales, Mother Goose Reanimated. John shares his extensive experience in the non-profit space and how the seeds for this project were planted decades ago when he began working with autistic adults and fostering their potential. John, a performer and musician, founded PASW 26 years ago, providing hands-on individualized training, career management, and on-location support for performers with disabilities working in film, television and commercials. They’ve conquered most media but this is their first book! John shares the themes and inspirations behind the reimagined stories, how the creative team came together, and the collaborative process of writing, casting, costuming, set designing, and shooting a picture book. We also hear about Mindy's personal journey with her autistic son and the challenges that he has encountered. Debra shares how she got her big break and talks about her successful voice acting career (she's the current voice of Daisy Duck AND Ursula!), John tells us about working with Frank Oz and Jim Henson and everyone gushes about their recent experience launching the book at Los Angeles Comic Con! Plus, Fritz is recommending the doc, Maestra on Netflix, Weezy read and loved The Women by Kristin Hannah. And, tasked with sampling and recommending content from our generation, our Gen Z tech, Mason is binging and loving Cheers! Path Points of Interest: Mother Goose Reanimated Performing Arts Studio West PASW on Facebook PASW on YouTube Mother Goose Reanimated Website Mindy Sterling on IMDB Mindy Sterling on Wikipedia Mindy Sterling on X/Twitter Debra Wilson on IMDB Debra Wilson on Wikipedia John Paizis on IMDB John Paizis on Facebook The Women by Kristin Hannah Maestra - Netflix Gift of Democracy Media Path Podcast Youtube https://youtu.be/4xp9xEoFQN8
Oct 17, 2024 · 58 min
The Lasting Bonds Of A TV Family & Actionable Education Insights with Kami Cotler
The Walton family saga so deeply moved us that scores of devoted fans are now sharing the show with their children and grandchildren. Set in Depression era Virginia, The Waltons invited audiences to watch a family overcome adversity through their love, perseverance and the opening of their minds and hearts. During its nine year run, we watched the Walton kids grow up right along with us. Between the ages of seven and sixteen, Kami Cotler portrayed the youngest Walton, Elizabeth and while doing show she gained the additional families of her Walton co-stars and fans. Kami joins us to talk about a childhood spent on the set of an iconic historical drama, her illustrious and inspiring career as an educator and the ongoing events and celebrations which continue to unite The Waltons and their audience. Kami's career as a teacher and administrator was rooted in her own education, a unique hybrid of inventive and creative on-set tutors and public schools. On-set learning did harken back to the one room schoolhouse where Kami learned alongside her older casemates and could easily audit some of their fascinating lessons which were way ahead of her grade level. Additionally, The Waltons’ set doubled as a constantly evolving, hands-on classroom. Post-Waltons, Kami’s first teaching job was in rural Virginia, which provided a real life emersion into the fictional setting she had inhabited for nearly a decade, and it's where she developed her style and approach as an educator. We talk to Kami about her Youtube channel where she reacts to beloved episodes and interviews her wonderful Mom. She tells us what she wishes she’d asked Will Geer and Ellen Corby about working with Woody Guthrie and Laurel and Hardy and she shares how fans are consistently helping her better remember specific events and episodes! Today, Kami organizes Waltons themed gatherings around the country that are proving to be an enormously rewarding experience for both cast and fans. And, Kami pretty much aces a round of Waltons Trivia! Plus, Fritz and Weezy are recommending Social Studies on FX and Hulu and Score on Prime. Path Points of Interest: Kami Cotler on Wiki Kami Cotler on IMDB Kami Cotler on Facebook Kami Cotler on Instagram Kami Cotler on Youtube Gift of Democracy Social Studies Score - Amazon Prime
Oct 10, 2024 · 1 hr 5 min
Playing TV's Classic Characters & Show Biz Second Acts with Donny Most
Happy Days is the iconically classic 70s TV sensation about the 50s. Its legacy is unparalleled, its popularity ongoing. The show launched a character who remains the embodiment of cool, Fonzie, and it cemented its cast into icon status in perpetuity. That cast includes Donny Most, who played wise-cracking Ralph Malph, who, complete with his own catchphrase, “I still got it!” took a minor role and turned it into the stuff of legend. Don joins us this week to look back on his decades in Hollywood, the magic formula that brought Happy Days to fruition, and created a lasting legacy, and his tireless pursuit of creative expression that continues to keep his schedule full and fulfilling. Don shares stories about his first foray into show business, as a Catskills performing teen, his early guest starring roles on Emergency and Room 222, how he dropped out of college to maintain his acting momentum and landed a small role on Happy Days which he initially turned down until a fateful basketball playing encounter between his manager and Garry Marshall upped the incentives and sealed the deal. Donny and his cast-mates developed a strong, life-long bond which he credits to the collaborative set atmosphere, the genius of Garry Marshall and the strong example set by Ron Howard, which helped anchor egos aboard the Happy Days rocket ride. Type-casting came with the Happy Days territory and it took years or hard work on stage for new opportunities to present themselves. Don has since gone into directing and producing and his most recent roles are the most compelling and diverse of his career. Potsie took most of the lead vocals in the Happy Days band but Donny has been a singer since childhood and his most recent big-band, American Songbook recording, New York High has a BBC reviewer calling him, “The new Sinatra.” All this plus the truth behind the lawsuit against CBS, Happy Days trivia and Don’s dramatic Baywatch rescue! And, in recommendations, Fritz and Weezy are discussing Ellen DeGeneres: For Your Approval and Monsters: The Lyle And Erik Menendez Story, both on Netflix. Path Points of Interest: Donny Most Donny Most on Wiki Donny Most on IMDB Donny Most on Twitter New York High on Apple Music Far Haven Harsen's Island Revenge Unsung Hero Gallatin Comic Con Appearance Ellen DeGeneres: or Your Approval on Netflix Monsters: The Lyle And Erik Menendez Story on Netflix Gift of Democracy Media Path Podcast
Oct 3, 2024 · 1 hr 7 min
New York's Former Film Industry & The Path From 70s To 80s Classics with William Atherton
You may know William Atherton from Day Of The Locust, The Hindenburg, Looking For Mr. Goodbar, and Real Genius or you may better remember him for vigorously questioning the environmental safety of ghost busting or for receiving a blow to the face which rings in a very Merry Christmas in Die Hard. Bill began his career on the stage, performing in Broadway plays by David Rabe, John Guare and Arthur Miller. The Ghostbuster and Die Hard franchises brought him to Hollywood and he joins us to discuss his fascinating history, his heroes and influences and his range of experiences with such performers as Anne Bancroft, George C. Scott, Donald Sutherland, Karen Black, and Diane Keaton. Did you know that Bill sings What’ll I Do in Nelson Riddle’s Great Gatsby score!? He tells us all about it and talks about recognizing the greatness of Stephen Spielberg even as a baby director when Bill stared in Sugarland Express. He remembers how Anne Bancroft would not stop talking about Mel Brooks on the set of The Hindenburg, he shares what he learned from the casts of Lost and Desperate Housewives and he addresses the internet’s most time-honored question, is Die Hard a Christmas movie? Plus, Fritz and Weezy are recommending Will & Harper and Nobody Wants This on Netflix. Path Points of Interest: William Atherton William Atherton on Wiki William Atherton on IMDB Gift of Democracy Media Path Podcast Nobody Wants This on Netflix Will and Harper - Netflix
Sep 26, 2024 · 1 hr 15 min
The Great American Supergroup & The Making Of A Music Family with Sean Kelly & Peter Holsapple
In the '90s, a group of legendary rock and pop artists banded together, blending inspirations, genres, influences and styles to form a uniquely collaborative sound. The Bangles, The Cowsills, REM, The dBs, and Hootie And The Blowfish were all represented in The Continental Drifters. Author and musician Sean Kelly has written the definitive Drifters tomb, White Noise & Lightning: The Continental Drifters Story and he joins us this week, along with iconic Drifter Peter Holsapple, to take us on a journey from Hollywood to New Orleans, in the late 90s, through the rich layers of alternative, folk, California pop and Americana that shaped the remarkable story of this legacy mega-group. We kick off the show with comedian and Emmy winning comedy writer Brian Kiley, who shares his experiences in the writing trenches with Conan O’Brien and Ellen DeGeneres. Brian joins us fresh from his experiences performing overseas for the U.S. military and recording his Dry Bar Comedy special. Brian will be opening soon for Fritz at The El Portal Theater in North Hollywood! Sean and Peter then offer a Continental Drifters deep dive into their origin story, their musical heritages and their founding members, including New Orleans legend, Carlo Nuccio who inspired the band’s move from a weekly residency at Raji’s in Hollywood to one at Howlin’ Wolf in New Orleans. The Drifters quickly ascended from a supergroup to a force of nature. Peter talks about his time with R.E.M. and Hootie and the Blowfish, Sean and Peter give us an in depth look at the band’s inner wiring and how their on-stage chemistry met with conflicting ingredients in the studio. The beating heart of The Drifters was always the personal bonds and when the romantic energy within the group began to shift, just like within any family, the entire group was thrown off balance. Sean and Peter relay their frustration with their record label's confusion as to how to market The Drifters, what members were seeking in contrast to their previous industry experiences, what inspired Sean to write the book, why Vermillion is Peter's favorite Drifters album and details about the brand new tribute album featuring Drifters songs performed by 25 artists including Marshall Crenshaw, Debbi Peterson and John Cowsill! Plus, Weezy is recommending, the MSNBC doc, From Russia With Lev and Fritz is looking ahead with 'What's Next? The Future With Bill Gates' on Netflix. Path Points of Interest: Brian Kiley Brian Kiley on X Brian Kiley at Fritz Coleman's Unassisted Residency The Continental Drifters White Noise & Lightening by Sean Kelly on Amazon Peter Holsapple on Wiki Peter Holsapple on Instagram Continental Drifters on Wikipedia Continental Drifters on YouTube Continental Drifters on Facebook Continental Drifters on Instagram From Russia With Lev What's Next? The Future With Bill Gates Gift of Democracy Media Path Podcast
Sep 19, 2024 · 1 hr 20 min
The Post-Soviet Influx Of Western Culture & Musicians In A Time Of Crisis with David Junk
The fall of the Soviet wall and the opening of the iron curtain presented ample space for hope, optimism and opportunity for westerners eager to share culture, creativity, business and democracy concepts with the citizens of the former Soviet Union. David Junk leapt at the chance to work for Polygram/Universal Records in a country hungry for music and freedom. David’s 15 years in Russia were a unique window of time between Gorbachov’s Glasnost and Putin’s re-consolidation of power. David stepped into a landscape that he called “the wild, wild, east,” teaming with gangsters and corruption and also talented, enterprising Russians, eager to explore new possibilities. David’s journey is documented in his book, Rockin’ The Kremlin which gives readers an inside look at boots-on-the-ground life and work in Russia from the perspective of a Russian speaking, idealistic American. David and his co-writer Fred Bronson join us for a fascinating dive into David’s adventures… Contract negations with Polygram which included kidnapping insurance, Russian kids’ obsession with hip hop, discovering and exporting Russian talent including two young girls called t.A.T.u. who kissed on The Tonight Show, wearing “F*** War” tee-shirts which they got past everyone because the words were written in Russian. David says that those tee-shirts are now being worn by kids in Ukraine. This window in time introduced a generation to a complex intersection of culture and politics which was ultimately snuffed by Putin’s coalition with the Russian Orthodox Church and a renewed, vehement opposition to LGBTQ rights and individual expression. Ultimately, it was David’s deep disappointment in colleagues’ support for the invasion of Ukraine and concerns for his family’s safety which brought him back to the states. But still, so much was learned and exchanged. All this, plus Fritz and Weezy are recommending The English Teacher on FX (streaming on Hulu) and the making of The Sopranos doc, Wiseguy on HBO Max. Path Points of Interest: Rocking The Kremlin: My Incredible, True Story Of Gangsters, Oligarchs, And Pop Stars In Putin's Russia by David Junk with Fred Bronson David Junk on Facebook David Junk on Instagram Fred Bronson on Twitter Art During Wartime Podcast Gift of Democracy The English Teacher FX and Hulu https://www.fxnetworks.com/shows/english-teacher Wiseguy - HBO https://www.hbo.com/movies/wise-guy-david-chase-and-the-sopranos
Sep 12, 2024 · 1 hr 5 min
Generations of a Showbiz Family & The Classic Age of Action Films with Lorenzo Lamas
Golden Globe-nominated actor, action movie star, martial artist, helicopter pilot, heartthrob, thrill seeker and Hollywood royalty, Lorenzo Lamas joins us for an exhilarating ride through decades of entertainment history, from the Golden Age through the non-stop 1990's and beyond! Lorenzo is the son of classic era movie-making duo Arlene Dahl and Fernando Lamas. Lorenzo came into his own playing the grandson of Jane Wyman's character on the legendary prime-time soap, Falcon Crest, and then earned lifelong fans in action and martial arts TV and film, including Renegade and Snake Eater. Lorenzo joins us to talk about life lessons learned in military school, on the set and through fatherhood. A child of Hollywood, Lorenzo’s parents divorced when he was two and he often felt like a guest in either home. His mother Arlene Dahl was a starlet in the 1940s and 50s, and a businesswoman, who married six times, disrupting Lorenzo’s childhood with moves around the world. Lorenzo later learned to appreciate his mother’s love for him and her groundbreaking achievements. As a child, he yearned deeply for the attention and validation of his father, larger-than- life film star, Fernando Lamas who married Esther Williams when Lorenzo was 11 and was often either living in another city or away on location. Summers with his dad meant everything. His father died in his sixties but lived to see his son’s success and even directed an episode of Falcon Crest! Lorenzo gives us behind the scenes insights that he learned from Burt Reynolds, Elizabeth Taylor, Jane Wyman and Charlton Heston. He fills us in on the un-aired final episode of Renegade. And on the values he has imparted to his own children of show business. Plus, Lorenzo takes on a challenging round of IMDB Roulette! In recommendations, Weezy is bingeingThe Perfect Couple on Netflix and Fritz enjoyed Elizabeth Taylor: The Lost Tapes on Max. Lorenzo Lamas on Wiki Lorenzo Lamas on IMDB Renegade at Heart by Lorenzo Lamas Lorenzo Lamas on Facebook Lorenzo Lamas on Instagram Stepmom from Hell Prepare to Die The Perfect Couple Elizabeth Taylor: The Lost Tapes on Max
Sep 5, 2024 · 1 hr 14 min
Pioneering Inclusivity On Classic TV & How Comedy Can Be An Inspiration with Geri Jewell & Kathy Buckley
Geri Jewell is a Comedian/Actor/Motivational Speaker/Author and (thanks to Norman Lear) the trailblazing first person with a visible disability to appear as a TV show regular! Geri went straight from special ed to special treatment as a Facts of Life cast member, portraying Blair’s Cousin Geri and providing essential representation for kids growing up and living with Cerebral Palsy. Geri's life and career have always been an inspiration, as evidenced by her brand new coffee table book 'Geri's Jewels & Gems', which will provide you with a fresh, positive perspective on the inevitable hardships and struggles we all face. Brace for Geri's sunny outlook, grit and determination to shift your mood and encourage you to pursue your own dreams! As a child, Geri’s imagination took her to Wimbledon, standup comedy stages and Hollywood. She was soon exchanging letters with Carol Burnett, performing at the Comedy Store and playing doubles with John McEnroe and Arthur Ash! Her mother had warned her, “Be careful what you wish for.” Geri teaches us that kids with disabilities often grow up emotionally stunted because so much emphasis is placed on their physical development. Cast in an NBC sitcom at the age of 23, Geri was a rich target for unscrupulous managers and “friends.” She frequently lost her way while being misunderstood, underestimated and searching for the courage to live an openly gay life. The physical beating of Cerebral Palsy can be very painful and poor balance leads to debilitating falls. Geri was recovering from back and neck surgery, waiting in line at CVS to purchase botox for her neck pain when David Milch approached her and felt inspired to cast her in Deadwood! Your next miracle could be just around the corner! Geri talks to us about her first inspirational book called I’m Walking As Straight As I Can, her determination to defy expectations, how CP has provided her with unique insights into the human condition and her intention to help others reach their potential. Then Geri’s best friend, hearing impaired comedian Kathy Buckley joins us on the panel to share more truly adorable anecdotes and adventures. Plus, Fritz and Weezy are recommending My Brilliant Friend on HBO and Daughters on Netflix. Path Points of Interest: Geri Jewell Geri Jewell on Wiki I'm Walking As Straight As I Can by Geri Jewell Geri's Jewels and Gems by Gery Jewell Geri Jewell on Youtube Geri Jewell at Ability Magazine Geri Jewell on Facebook Kathy Buckley Kathy Buckley on Instagram My Brilliant Friend on HBO Daughters - Netflix Media Path Podcast Gift Of Democracy
Aug 29, 2024 · 58 min
The Art Of Celebrity Impressions & The Voice Of Show Biz History with Rich Little
Rich Little has boldly done impressions of presidents for presidents! The man of a thousand voices is a show biz legend who has been delighting audiences for decades. His new one-man show is a multi-media event that includes TV highlights, his spectacular sketches and, of course, his phenomenal impressions! Rich joins us to give voice (often not his own!) to his unique show biz history! Rich Little's first impersonations were of Canadian political leaders in his home country. His buddy Mel Torme sang his praises to Judy Garland who was blown away by his take on her A Star Is Born co-star James Mason and his appearance on her show launched him into the iconic, glittering age of 60s show biz! It was a time when the impressions he mastered were instantly recognizable and are still indelibly so… Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, Don Rickles, Jimmy Stewart, Jack Benny and George Burns. Rich’s appearances on Dean’s roasts had him doing impressions of huge stars right in front of them while the rest of show biz intently surveyed their reaction. He has opened for Las Vegas superstars and broken the record for the longest running one man show in Vegas history. He has made hundreds of TV appearances, nine comedy albums, and three HBO specials. He’s befriended Presidents, guest-hosted The Tonight Show and entertained The Queen! Rich joins us with voices and stories! Which Hollywood Squares star openly hated Rich’s impression of him? How did Rich incur the wrath of Bette Davis and tick off Johnny Carson? And the Judge who swore Rich in as an American citizen asked him to read the Pledge Of Allegiance as what movie star? All is revealed! Plus, Fritz and Weezy are recommending The Friday Afternoon Club: A Family Memoir by Griffin Dunne and Wyatt Earp and The Cowboy War on Netflix. Path Points of Interest: Rich Little Rich Little at the Laugh Factory Covina on 9/8/24 Rich Little on Wikipedia Rich Little on Facebook Rich Little on Instagram People I've Known and Been by Rich Little Rich Little on the Dean Martin Roast of Jack Benny Rich Little on Jackie Gleason Rich Little on Judy Garland The Friday Afternoon Club: A Family Memoir by Griffin Dunne Wyatt Earp And The Cowboy War - Netflix
Aug 22, 2024 · 1 hr 2 min
Legendary Showbiz Prowess & The Prototype For The Male Review with Michael Gregg Michaud
Words like 'legend', 'icon' and 'star' were created to describe Mae West! Our guest, Michael Gregg Michaud has written his third Mae West book, Mae West And Her Adonises which focuses on her revolutionary 50s nightclub act featuring a chorus line of muscle men. Mae set the stage for the male revue, now a staple of Vegas bachelorette parties and girls’ nights out! Michael’s book is packed with photos, press interviews, Mae’s wickedly quippy and saucy one-liners and details about an act that was literally stopping traffic in every town it visited. Mae’s first and only love was the stage but much like any episode of The Bachelorette, the Adonises found themselves lost in love for her and competitively pining for her attention, ultimately coming to blows when Chuck Krauser threw a punch at Mickey Hargitay. Hearts and jaws were broken and a high profile court case ensued. Mae was the O.G. of branding, literally carving her image out of strategically erected costumes, padding, wigs, headdresses and heals. She wrote and produced her own content, walking right up to the wall of naughty and bawdy but never crossing into tasteless. She artfully tap-danced around censors and male industry leaders, knowing innately what her audience would embrace. Mae famously jabbed and feuded with Marilyn Monroe, Jayne Mansfield and W.C. Fields and maintained lifelong friendships with Louise Beavers, her boxer buddies, and the animals she adored. All this Plus Fritz and Weezy are recommending Bad Monkey on Apple + and Wicked Little Lies on Netflix. Path Points of Interest: Michael Gregg Michaud Michael Gregg Michaud on Amazon Mae West and Her Adonises Michael Gregg Michaud on Facebook Michael Gregg Michaud on Instagram Mae West on IMDB Mae West Stage Show - 1957 Bad Monkey on Apple + Wicked Little Letters on Netflix Gift of Democracy Media Path Podcast