The Locher Room

Alan Locher

Welcome to The Locher Room, a YouTube show dedicated to celebrating TV and movie fans around the world. My hope is that these shows bring smiles, entertain, and help raise awareness for socially relevant issues we are all facing today. Thanks for tuning in!

https://www.youtube.com/c/TheLocherRoom/Videos

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21 episodes
weekly
Avg 1 hr 4 min
English

Episodes 21

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Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.

Tuesday · 1 hr 18 min
Jeff Trachta Opened Up About The Bold and the Beautiful, His Mental Health Journey, Bill Bell, Bobbie Eakes, Broadway, His 34-Year Love Story with A. J. Symon & His Extraordinary Career Beyond Daytime
Jeff Trachta joined me in The Locher Room for a candid, heartfelt and often funny conversation about the highs, lows and unexpected turns of his remarkable life and career. Daytime fans know Jeff best for his eight-year run as Thorne Forrester on The Bold and the Beautiful, but his journey in soaps began earlier with roles on One Life to Live and Loving. Jeff opened up about the mental health crisis he experienced after his time on Loving came to an end and shared the story of the doctor whose compassion helped him through one of the most difficult periods of his life. Jeff took us behind the scenes of how he landed the role of Thorne and spoke about his tremendous respect for legendary creator William J. Bell. He also shared memories of working with Susan Flannery and reflected on his friendship and musical partnership with Bobbie Eakes. Their work together took them from daytime television to recording three triple-platinum albums and performing sold-out concerts throughout Europe. We also talked about Jeff’s career beyond daytime, including making his Broadway debut as Danny Zuko in Grease, performing in Las Vegas and becoming a renowned celebrity impressionist. And yes, Jeff treated us to some of those incredible impressions during our conversation. Jeff also spoke openly about his personal life and the 34-year relationship he shares with his husband, A. J. Symon. He proudly shared the story behind A. J.’s debut young adult novel, Golden Boy, arriving August 25. It was an hour filled with vulnerability, resilience, laughter, wonderful memories and stories from a performer whose career has taken him from daytime television to Broadway, music, Las Vegas and beyond.
August 18 · 59 min
Craig Lawlor Looked Back on As the World Turns, Shared Stories of Ellen Dolan and Benjamin Hendrickson, Opened Up About Loss, and Celebrated Des & the Swagmatics' New Self-Titled Album
What happens when a soap star finds his next act behind a drum kit? Craig Lawlor joined me for a heartfelt conversation about his journey from playing Adam Hughes Munson on As the World Turns to helping bring Des & the Swagmatics' self-titled debut album to life after nearly eight years in the making. Craig reflected on growing up in a musical family with a father who taught music, picking up the drums at just nine years old, and how acting first entered his life through his sister. He shared memories of joining As the World Turns, what he learned from Ellen Dolan and the late Benjamin Hendrickson, and his friendship with Kristina Sisco during his years in Oakdale. He also opened up about the devastating loss of his mother to cancer at a young age, how it changed the course of his life, and why music ultimately became his creative home. The conversation concluded with the story of joining Des & the Swagmatics, the long road to the band's self-titled debut album, his musical influences, and what listeners can expect from the new release. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow As the World Turns fan or music lover.
August 11 · 1 hr 1 min
Heated Rivalry’s Harrison Browne on Making History, Acting, Hockey, Pink Light, Let Us Play, the Truth About Transgender Athletes, and Finding His Voice On and Off the Ice
Harrison Browne joined me in The Locher Room for an inspiring and deeply honest conversation about a life defined by courage, reinvention, and authenticity. Many viewers recently discovered Harrison as Connors on the hit series Heated Rivalry, but long before stepping in front of the camera, he made history as the first openly transgender professional athlete in North American team sports. Harrison reflected on his groundbreaking hockey career, the difficult decision to retire in order to medically transition, and how he found a new purpose through acting. He shared the surprising story of how Scarlett Johansson unknowingly inspired him to pursue the craft, the discipline it took to succeed in both hockey and acting, and how he landed his role on Heated Rivalry. We also talked about the overwhelming response to the series, his acclaimed short film Pink Light, and why he and his sister, Rachel Browne, wrote Let Us Play: Winning the Battle for Gender Diverse Athletes. Most importantly, Harrison spoke candidly about the misinformation surrounding transgender athletes, what he wishes people understood about the lived experience of being trans, and the meaningful connections he’s built with young people and families searching for hope and understanding. Whether you’re a fan of Heated Rivalry, interested in sports, or simply appreciate powerful conversations that challenge perspectives, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
August 4 · 59 min
AJ Lovelace and Rob Hill joined me in The Locher Room to discuss the Emmy-eligible independent series Onyx and the inspiring journey behind bringing it to life.
AJ Lovelace and Rob Hill joined me in The Locher Room to discuss the Emmy-eligible independent series Onyx and the inspiring journey behind bringing it to life. AJ shared how he created Onyx from the ground up, why he refused to wait for permission to tell the stories he believed needed to be told, and what it was like serving as the series’ creator, showrunner, director, cinematographer, editor, actor, and more. He also discussed why releasing Onyx on YouTube made sense for the series and why authentic storytelling will always matter more than chasing algorithms. Rob reflected on joining Onyx, collaborating with AJ to help bring his vision to life, and how his work as a producer and writer, along with his experiences on The Book of Queer, the podcast soap opera Heritage, and Handsome™, has influenced the stories he wants to tell. Together, they discussed authentic Black LGBTQ+ representation, the importance of creating opportunities instead of waiting for them, their creative partnership, what Emmy eligibility meant to the entire Onyx team, and why they hope Onyx inspires the next generation of storytellers to believe in their voices and create the stories they want to see. After listening, be sure to watch Onyx, available free on YouTube.
July 28 · 1 hr 17 min
Guiding Light’s 74th TV Anniversary: Grant Aleksander, Michael O’Leary, Robert Newman, Robin Nuyen & Sherry Ramsey Preview DEVOUT and Celebrate Springfield’s Enduring Legacy Together
Celebrate Guiding Light’s 74th television anniversary with beloved cast members Grant Aleksander (Phillip Spaulding), Michael O’Leary (Rick Bauer), Robert Newman (Josh Lewis), actor Robin Nuyen, and actress, attorney, professor, and playwright Sherry Ramsey. The conversation also celebrates DEVOUT, Sherry Ramsey’s first play, which she wrote and directed. The production reunites Grant Aleksander, Michael O’Leary, Robert Newman, and Robin Nuyen on stage for its world premiere August 27–30, 2026, at ShenanArts in Staunton, Virginia. Sherry shares the deeply personal inspiration behind the play and why she felt compelled to tell this story of grief, fractured family relationships, forgiveness, and healing. The cast discusses bringing these complex characters to life, rehearsing together over Zoom, and what audiences can expect when the curtain rises. The conversation also takes a heartfelt trip back to Springfield with memories of Guiding Light, the legendary Bauer Barbecues, lifelong friendships, favorite mentors, and what made the series unlike any other show in daytime television. Robin Nuyen reflects on losing his father, his longtime friendship with Robert Newman, and why joining this production has meant so much to him. Michael O’Leary also delivers his unforgettable Jordan Clarke impression, providing one of the episode’s funniest moments. As the conversation comes to a close, the cast reflects on what made Guiding Light so special and why, 74 years after its television debut, its legacy continues to bring its cast and fans together. Tickets for DEVOUT are on sale now at ShenanArts.
July 21 · 1 hr 5 min
Alan Shayne reflects on 100 remarkable years, Hollywood, his 68-year love story with Norman Sunshine, and the life lessons behind his memoir, And It Only Took 100 Years… Listen now!
At 100 years old, Alan Shayne has lived a life unlike any other. In this heartfelt conversation, Alan reflects on an extraordinary journey that spans Broadway, the earliest days of television, Hollywood, and his years as President of Warner Bros. Television, where he helped shape iconic series including Wonder Woman, Alice, The Dukes of Hazzard, Growing Pains, and Scarecrow and Mrs. King. Alan also opens up about discovering his identity as a young man at a time when being gay was neither understood nor accepted, his first love, and the remarkable 68-year relationship he shares with acclaimed artist Norman Sunshine. Together, we discuss his latest memoir, And It Only Took 100 Years…, the lessons he’s learned from a century of living, why he and Norman first shared their story in Double Life, and what he hopes readers take away from this deeply personal book. Filled with warmth, humor, honesty, and unforgettable stories, this is a conversation about love, resilience, purpose, and a life truly well lived. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast—it helps others discover these conversations.
July 14 · 1 hr 8 min
Casey S. Hutchison, Jeff Branson, Frank Dicopoulos, BJ Van Griffin & Kristina Sullivan Preview Haven Falls, Share Guiding Light Memories & Reveal Amelia Marshall’s Arrival
Podcast Description Haven Falls creator Casey S. Hutchison joined cast members Jeff Branson, Frank Dicopoulos, BJ Van Griffin, and Kristina Sullivan for a preview of the highly anticipated new audio drama premiering June 25. The group discussed Casey’s introduction to soap operas, why Haven Falls was the next story he wanted to tell, and his decision to release new episodes at 2 p.m. Central, a nod to the tradition of daytime drama. Jeff and Frank reflected on their Guiding Light years, their love of serialized storytelling, and the opportunity to return to a format that takes soaps back to their roots. BJ and Kristina shared what drew them to their new characters and what it has been like working with such a talented ensemble cast. Plus, there was exciting news for Guiding Light fans as Casey revealed that Amelia Marshall, known to many viewers as Gilly Grant, will join Haven Falls beginning with Episode 6. Haven Falls premieres June 25, 2026 wherever you listen to podcasts.
July 7 · 56 min
Neil Adams on Michael Dorian’s 9/11 Heroism, HIV Journey, Finding Love with Aaron, Ground Zero, and the Story Behind From the Pile
Author Neil Adams joined me to discuss his book, From the Pile, and the extraordinary life of his close friend Michael Dorian. During our conversation, Neil reflected on their nearly 30-year friendship, Michael’s childhood trauma, HIV diagnosis, search for love and acceptance, and his determination to build a better life. We also discussed Michael’s decision to run toward Ground Zero on September 11th to help others, the lasting health consequences he faced, and the years-long effort to uncover footage proving he had been there. Neil shared the touching story of introducing Michael to Aaron, who would become Michael’s partner and fiancé, and reflected on the resilience, courage, and compassion that defined Michael’s life. It’s a moving conversation about friendship, redemption, service, and the legacy of a man whose story deserves to be remembered.
June 30 · 1 hr 19 min
Amanda Reyes & Daniel Budnik explored soap stars, primetime TV movies and television history, plus surprise guest Colleen Zenk shared memories of Woman on the Ledge and Christmas Evil.
Amanda Reyes and Daniel Budnik joined me for a fascinating conversation inspired by the Soap Operas in Popular Culture Conference and their presentation, Daytime After Dark: Exploring the Relationship Between the Daytime Drama and the Primetime Made-for-TV Movie. Together, we looked at the surprising connection between daytime soap operas and the primetime TV movie boom of the 1970s, ’80s, and ’90s. Amanda and Dan shared how soap stars regularly crossed into made-for-TV movies, why networks embraced these actors in primetime projects, and how these films became major television events for audiences across the country. We also discussed their love of soap operas, the origins of The Made-For-TV Mayhem Show, and some of the most memorable TV movies of the era. As a special surprise, Colleen Zenk joined us to share memories of appearing in Woman on the Ledge alongside Deidre Hall and Leslie Charleson, and she also looked back at her memorable role as Binky in the cult classic Christmas Evil. If you love soap operas, television history, pop culture nostalgia, and behind-the-scenes stories, this is an episode you will not want to miss.
June 23 · 59 min
Josh Murray Discussed Gym Rat, Winning Best Actor at the Beverly Hills Film Festival, Mental Health, General Hospital, Lou Ferrigno and His Family’s Dream of Producing a Film Together
Actor Josh Murray joined me for a thoughtful conversation about his award-winning performance in Gym Rat, the dark psychological thriller that earned him Best Actor honors at the Beverly Hills Film Festival. Josh discussed his lifelong love of movies and how film helped shape the course of his life and career. We explored the powerful themes at the heart of Gym Rat, including addiction, mental health, isolation, redemption, and the importance of sharing stories that help people feel less alone in their struggles. Josh also reflected on winning Best Actor, working alongside the legendary Lou Ferrigno, and the emotional impact of bringing Lonnie Milsap’s journey to the screen. In addition, we looked back at his role as Russell on General Hospital, where he held Drew Cain captive, and talked about the unique experience of working in daytime television. The conversation also turned personal as Josh shared the story of his father’s passion for writing screenplays and their hope of one day bringing one of those scripts to life on the big screen. It was an inspiring discussion about perseverance, storytelling, family, and following your dreams.
June 16 · 1 hr 5 min
Jen Jacob & Jordi Vilasuso joined Alan Locher to talk Beyond the Gates, audition stories, daytime TV, cast bonds, career journeys, Guiding Light memories and the future of soaps.
Jen Jacob and Jordi Vilasuso joined me in The Locher Room for a fun and insightful conversation about their work on Beyond the Gates and their journeys through the entertainment industry. Jen talked about her audition process for the role of Ashley Morgan, transitioning from primetime and film into daytime television, and the fast pace that comes with working on a soap. She also opened up about the incredible support system among the cast and what has made this experience so meaningful for her. Jordi reflected on how the role of Grayson Perez came into his life and what it has meant to step into his fifth daytime role after memorable runs on Guiding Light, All My Children, Days of Our Lives and The Young and the Restless. He also shared his thoughts on the recent two-season renewal for Beyond the Gates and why he believes audiences continue to connect with daytime storytelling. We also talked about working with their co-stars, the family atmosphere behind the scenes, life outside of acting and so much more. A heartfelt, funny and engaging conversation with two stars helping bring new energy to daytime television.
June 9 · 1 hr 3 min
Jon Lindstrom joined me to discuss Hollywood Payback, Beyond the Gates, Joey Armstrong, Michelle Val Jean, and his upcoming book Pressure Point with Jeff Ayers coming this December
Jon Lindstrom joined me in The Locher Room to discuss his new novel Hollywood Payback and what it took to follow up Hollywood Hustle. He opened up about the pressure of writing a second book, the discipline of his early morning routine, and why he truly fell in love with the writing process. We also talked about the research behind the book, including the experts he leaned on to bring authenticity to the worlds of crime, prison life, and the legal system, and how those insights shaped the story. Jon shared how his role as Joey Armstrong on Beyond the Gates came to life through his longtime friendship with Michelle Val Jean, and just how much he’s enjoying being part of a brand-new show that’s already building momentum. He also reflected on his career in daytime television, from Kevin Collins and Ryan Chamberlain to Craig Montgomery, and how those experiences continue to influence his work today. Plus, Jon gave a preview of what’s next, including his upcoming book Pressure Point, co-written with Jeff Ayers, set for release this December.
June 2 · 54 min
Holocaust survivor Nate Leipciger joined me to share his story of survival, resilience, and the message he continues to share at 98: love your neighbor, accept others as equal, and never forget.
Holocaust survivor Nate Leipciger joined me for a powerful Conversation with Alan, sharing his story of survival, resilience, and the responsibility to bear witness. At just 11 years old, Nate was forced into ghettos and later Auschwitz during the Nazi occupation of Poland. He survived unimaginable conditions alongside his father, including a death march, before being liberated in 1945. His mother and sister were murdered during the Holocaust. In this conversation, Nate reflected on his memoir The Weight of Freedom, the vivid memories he continues to carry, and the bond with his father that helped him survive. He also spoke about his lifelong work as an educator, including his involvement with March of the Living, and his mission to ensure future generations understand not only what happened, but why it must never be forgotten. At 98, Nate’s message remains clear and urgent: love your neighbor, accept your fellow man as your equal, and choose to be an upstander, not a bystander. Bernice Leipciger also joined the conversation, offering her perspective on Nate’s journey and the importance of continuing to share his story.
May 26 · 1 hr 10 min
Eric Feltes on Healing Religious Trauma, Unlearning Shame, and Building Confidence, Intimacy, and Self-Worth as a Gay Man in a Powerful, Honest Conversation About Identity and Growth
Eric Feltes joined me for a powerful and honest conversation about healing from religious trauma, unlearning shame, and building confidence, intimacy, and self-worth. Growing up in a conservative evangelical environment, Eric shares what it was like to feel that being gay was incompatible with belonging, and how that early messaging shaped his identity. He opens up about the moment everything changed, and the years of work that followed as he began to untangle belief from identity and build a life rooted in authenticity. We talk about the root of shame, how it shows up in everyday life, and what it really takes to move beyond it. Eric also shares insight into why intimacy can be a challenge, and how it’s something that can be learned and rebuilt over time. We also discuss his new program launching in June, designed to help gay men reconnect with themselves, their desires, and their relationships in a more honest and fulfilling way. This is a meaningful conversation about identity, healing, and what it takes to fully embrace who you are.
May 19 · 1 hr 2 min
Jessica Collins & Lisa Melamed on Where’s Big Dog?, Y&R, Loving, Dolly Parton, Friendship, Grief, Healing and the Story Behind a Book Inspired by Loss, Family and the Bond We Share With Our Pets
Jessica Collins and Lisa Melamed joined me to talk about their heartfelt book Where’s Big Dog?, inspired by Jessica’s loss of her beloved dog Lucy and the journey of turning that grief into something meaningful for families. We talked about the genesis of the book, how a deeply personal moment became the foundation for a story centered on love, loss and healing, and how they approached creating something that could help both children and parents navigate difficult conversations. Jessica also looked back on her early days on Loving, working alongside Laura Wright and Paul Anthony Stewart, and the lasting impact The Young and the Restless had on her life, including her Daytime Emmy win. Lisa shared her path from Brooklyn to Hollywood, her work as a writer and producer on series like Party of Five, Sistersand Hey Dude, and what it meant to step into a more intimate form of storytelling with this book. We also talked about their friendship, working with Dolly Parton, and so much more.
May 12 · 48 min
Diana Malkin & Margaret Gurevich on The Crossing & Yasha’s Amazin’ Bar Mitzvah, Identity, Immigration, Antisemitism, Empathy, and Growing Up Between Cultures—A Meaningful Conversation
In this episode of The Locher Room, Alan sat down with authors Diana Malkin and Margaret Gurevich for a meaningful conversation about identity, culture, and the stories that shape who we are. Margaret shares the inspiration behind her new novel, Yasha’s Amazin’ Bar Mitzvah, a coming-of-age story set in 1986 that follows a young Russian American boy navigating life between cultures while preparing for his Bar Mitzvah. Drawing from her own experiences, Margaret opens up about growing up feeling “othered,” embracing her identity, and the importance of telling Jewish stories at a time when antisemitism is on the rise. Diana discusses her children’s book, The Crossing, which weaves together themes of immigration, health awareness, and cultural diversity through a deeply personal lens. Her work speaks to both children and parents, offering an accessible and heartfelt way to explore complex topics. Together, this conversation highlights the power of storytelling to build empathy, foster understanding, and help us all feel a little less alone. Yasha’s Amazin’ Bar Mitzvah and The Crossing are both available now wherever books are sol
May 5 · 1 hr 3 min
Carl Tye Evans revisited Guiding Light and As the World Turns as Kristina Sisco Romero surprised him, celebrating ATWT’s 70th anniversary and their unforgettable storyline together.
Carl Tye Evans joined me to revisit his time as Alan-Michael Spaulding on Guiding Light and Nick Scudder on As the World Turns, sharing memories from both shows and reflecting on his years in daytime. In a special moment, Kristina Sisco Romero (Abigail Williams) dropped in to surprise Carl as we celebrated what would have been the 70th anniversary of As the World Turns. Together, they looked back on their unforgettable storyline and the moments that still resonate with fans today. We also talked about Carl’s first feature film, Walking on the Sky, and how a deeply personal experience led him to step behind the camera. He also shared more about his life today, including earning his pilot’s license and his love of motorcycles.
April 28 · 55 min
Katherine Kamhi reflected on All My Children, Guiding Light, Oprah, Susan Lucci and her journey from daytime television to primetime, including NYPD Blue, Bones and Sleepaway Camp roles
Katherine Kamhi joined me to reflect on her career across daytime television, primetime, and film. Best known for her roles as Pamela Kingsley on All My Children and Marcy Campbell on Guiding Light, she discussed getting her start at 16 while balancing school and a demanding production schedule during a peak era of daytime television. She shared memories of working with Susan Lucci, her friendship with Jennifer Gatti, and her experience appearing in a scene with Oprah Winfrey early in Oprah’s career. Katherine also reflected on her time on Guiding Light, where she returned over several years in a recurring role that allowed her to play a very different kind of character. The conversation also covered her work in primetime television, including appearances on NYPD Blue, The Practice, and Bones, as well as her role in the cult film Sleepaway Camp. Throughout the episode, Katherine offered insight into her experience working across different formats and how her career evolved from daytime to primetime and beyond.
April 21 · 1 hr 10 min
Rich Burns and the cast of The Disappointments joined me to preview Season 2, now on YouTube. We talked friendship, reinvention, and the heart behind the Humanitas Prize-winning series.
Rich Burns, Gedde Watanabe, James Campbell and Chuck Saculla joined me in The Locher Room to preview Season 2 of The Disappointments, the Humanitas Prize-winning series that resonated with audiences for its honest, funny and heartfelt storytelling. We talked about the long journey to bring Season 2 to life, revisiting Season 1 through the Director’s Cut, and what fans could expect as the story continued. From new opportunities and challenges for Ray, Gary and James to deeper themes of reinvention, friendship and purpose, the new season took even bigger swings. Rich also shared why the themes of the series connected with so many people, regardless of age or identity. At its core, The Disappointments explored friendship, resilience and the humor that can be found even in life’s disappointments. Season 2 is now streaming on YouTube.
April 14 · 58 min
Damian Pelliccione on Building Revry, Coming Out as Non-Binary During the Pandemic, the Business Case for LGBTQ+ Media, and Why the Drag King Competition Series King of Drag Is Expanding Visibility
Damian Pelliccione joined me in The Locher Room to discuss the journey behind Revry, the first global queer-owned streaming platform. Damian shared how the idea for Revry was sparked while watching an Apple keynote and how that lightbulb moment led to building a platform focused on LGBTQ+ storytelling and visibility. We talked about Damian’s path from actor to entrepreneur, the early scrappy launch of Revry during San Francisco Pride, and why distribution, marketing, and accessibility became central to the company’s strategy. Damian also reflected on coming out as Non-Binary during the pandemic, the responsibility that comes with being visible as a leader in media, and the importance of creating spaces where diverse stories can thrive. The conversation also explored the growing “rainbow economy,” the real business case for inclusive media, and the excitement surrounding the drag king competition series King of Drag. It was a thoughtful discussion about leadership, identity, storytelling, and building something that didn’t previously exist.

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