Tony on the Mic: Recent Episodes
Tony on the Mic
Interesting stories, light touch on delicate subjects, and me cracking myself up! If you laugh 1/2 as much as I do making these, you'll love it! Check the topic and see if it interests you. Some local, some global, some fun, some sad ...
Today my guest is - when you think Bubbles, think Meadow Perry! One of the 124 most prominent bubbles magicians in the world according to OIBA! She was on the CW Masters of Illusion, did a week at the world famous Magic Castle in LA, and got a shout out from Penn Gillette of Penn and Teller! We talk about the genesis of bubble magic, how she got into bubble magic and push back against the notion that it isn’t “real” magic – I mean really? Are there wizards somewhere doing “real” magic? We talk about her theater nerd days in high school, life on the road with kids, and how does her best to never be approached on the road. I remember how our first meeting was completely forgettable for her… I mean, she completely forgot who I was… Also her kid interrupts, so we take a break, we discuss the difference between men and women in the industry, and we talk last meal stuff.
Today my guest is author and inspirational speaker Jonas Royster. He overcame a troubled past, including a few incarcerations, gang banging and a severe alcohol addiction. He is releasing his second book, with 4 more in the pipeline. He is also doing motivational speaking, trying to use his story, struggles and success to point out a road map to what is possible for those in his similar situation. We talk sky-diving, bungee jumping, being a foodie and how to act – and not act when in prison. Check out his book on Amazon “Bangin’ – the Making of a Y.G.” and his next offering “Quotes Off The Wall – 31 Days to Break Bad Thinking habits and Embrace positivity” out August 12th
Today my guest is Lorraine Bardeen, VP and Chief Technology officer at Microsoft! We discuss her journey through life and Cornell (ever heard of it) that led her to Microsoft. We discuss her life through high school and college, and why there are many people in her rolodex she would call before Bill Gates if she needed a tire change. She defends Clippy, the original AI Microsoft assistant, ranks her sisters, and lists keys to success, hiring and what she looks for in a potential fast tracker. She validates my adherence to Atomic Habits. Check out her inspirational and informational blogs on linkedin!
Today my guest is Author Kitty Zeldis. Once an aspiring bun-head (ballet dancer,) she went from publishing almost 40 children themed books and short stories and her last novel, The Dressmakers of Prospect Heights was about a Jewish Prostitute in New Orleans… We cover her journey from one to the other, and lots of stuff in between. She talks about rejection letters, balancing editors and her own vision, and gives some great advice to aspiring writers. How writing novels damaged her reading them, she is often caught up evaluating and rationalizing things in the book that she is simply trying to read and enjoy. She has finally mastered emojis, but fears it may be passe and too late to be cool.
BJ is Married! We sit down and catch up with everybody’s favorite bachelor as he settles down with his long-time love Andrea. We talk about the planning, the execution and the whirlwind that is a wedding. We discuss his podcast revival, the intrusive nature of the internet and its listening – all the time. We set the over under WAY too low for the amount of times he would cry. Is syncronicitious a word? Spoiler alert – no. Is Sapiens a real book? Spoiler alert – yes. Chef Andrew and the group at the Make café and the good work they do. (check them out at www.SDmake.com ) It is a great time, as it always is when we sit down to talk. Listen is as we talk about Juliette Lewis’s band, the simultaneous North Park music festival, Aunt Cindy and Aunt Anne’s wedding, and more!
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Today I sit wth Alli Jo, of Alli Jo’s Swim school, and more passionately, she founded and works with Project Connect (17:00.) They work with Monarch School, which is a school for homeless kids. They provide a Thanksgiving festival to provide a wonderful, normalized Thanksgiving dinner and events to a group that normally does not have what we take for granted. Great meal, then festival – dancing, carnival games, prizes, petting zoo and more. This event is 100% volunteer driven and everything is donated. One guy is organizing the cooking and delivery of 50 turkeys in a turkey caravan across the Coronado bridge! Honestly, if this episode and event does not touch and motivate you to try to be better every day – unsubscribe! (Just kidding, I am 100% bluffing – do not unsubscribe, just try to do better.)
Today I sit wth Alli Jo, of Alli Jo’s Swim school, and more passionately, she founded and works with Project Connect (17:00.) They work with Monarch School, which is a school for homeless kids. They provide a Thanksgiving festival to provide a wonderful, normalized Thanksgiving dinner and events to a group that normally does not have what we take for granted. Great meal, then festival – dancing, carnival games, prizes, petting zoo and more. This event is 100% volunteer driven and everything is donated. One guy is organizing the cooking and delivery of 50 turkeys in a turkey caravan across the Coronado bridge! Honestly, if this episode and event does not touch and motivate you to try to be better every day – unsubscribe! (Just kidding, I am 100% bluffing – do not unsubscribe, just try to do better.)
Today I sit down with Tony Orlando who is running for La Mesa city Council. We talk about the whys and the why nows, his ideas and platforms, and go into what I have called mailer-gate: a controversial mailer that went out and caused all kinds of commotion in the community. How he got a calling to the ministry at 14, how you people in La mesa can get potholes fixed quickly – without resorting to obscene graffiti. (That is a real inside La Mesa reference.) We play some Tony Orlando and Dawn in and out of breaks, and cut short his views on Church and State for another episode.
Today I sit down with Tony Orlando who is running for La Mesa city Council. We talk about the whys and the why nows, his ideas and platforms, and go into what I have called mailer-gate: a controversial mailer that went out and caused all kinds of commotion in the community. How he got a calling to the ministry at 14, how you people in La mesa can get potholes fixed quickly – without resorting to obscene graffiti. (That is a real inside La Mesa reference.) We play some Tony Orlando and Dawn in and out of breaks, and cut short his views on Church and State for another episode.
Hey hey y’all, I’m back from a short hiatus for episode 100!! 100 episodes in 100 weeks! Missed a couple weeks, doubled up on a few weeks and here we are! 100 in the bank, looking forward to the next 100! We took a trip to Chicago – caught a Cubs game, ate tons of deep dish pizza, caught the amazing Kayla Drescher at the really cool, speakeasy magic club The Magic Lounge! Paige Thompson was the headliner and it was a blast! Check out Kayla’s Podcast Shezam! Hit her up on her website magicinheels.com and tell her to go on Tony on the Mic! Enough pandering… We also took a river cruise and acted like tourists at the Bean! We also took in Niagara Falls and thought we were in the famous Toronto space needle… spoiler alert, we weren’t.
Hey hey y’all, I’m back from a short hiatus for episode 100!! 100 episodes in 100 weeks! Missed a couple weeks, doubled up on a few weeks and here we are! 100 in the bank, looking forward to the next 100! We took a trip to Chicago – caught a Cubs game, ate tons of deep dish pizza, caught the amazing Kayla Drescher at the really cool, speakeasy magic club The Magic Lounge! Paige Thompson was the headliner and it was a blast! Check out Kayla’s Podcast Shezam! Hit her up on her website magicinheels.com and tell her to go on Tony on the Mic! Enough pandering… We also took a river cruise and acted like tourists at the Bean! We also took in Niagara Falls and thought we were in the famous Toronto space needle… spoiler alert, we weren’t.
Today my guest is Jennifer Coburn, author of We’ll Always Have Paris, Reinventing Mona and a number of other entertaining, light-ish books. She learned about the Lebensborn Program and was compelled to learn more and share. This was a program created in 1935 to be the wellspring of future generations descended from those Nazi authorities deemed “racially valuable.” They bred kids with SS soldiers and women “volunteers.” They also stole babies from other countries that fit the mold. It is an appalling, true look into history from the perspective of three fictional women. It is kind of Handmaids Tale meets Swing Kids meets Sound of Music – without the music. Her dedication to detail is immersive and impressive.
Spoiler Alert! I don’t just spoil Cobra Kai by telling you what happened tell you what happened, but spoil it by telling you all the stupid stuff that’s too dumb to enjoy. I watched season 1 with high expectations and anticipation and was only mildly disappointed. The 15 minutes they spent writing the screenplay was just not enough, but it was OK, my friends from the Karate Kid movies were back and I was here for it. the season 2 was just too stupid to finish. I know lots of people love the show, and I am glad when someone finds some content that entertains them, but, well, damn. My co-host Jim part of the 94% of rotten tomatoes voters that gave it a thumbs up. I am part of the 6% of the thumbs down. We talk about the original series, the value of nostalgia, Daniel and Johnny, Stingray and Hawk, Tory and Samantha, Robbie Keene, Miguel Diaz, Kenny Payne and how apparently anyone can become a world class karate master in just a few months.
Today my guest is longtime San Diego Sports radio personality John “Coach” Kentera. We talk about his start, how he got the nickname the coach and his early coaching career. He tells us about the good, the bad, and the ugly of the biz, and some of his favorite interviews and memories. From Duke Snider to Tony Gwynn to Manny Machado, coach has studied the Padres in depth for a long time. He also talks about the early days with Hacksaw, Jim Rome and Ferrell on the bench.
Today we reminisce about our House of Blues gig. We played a party and it was amazing! BJ joins me and describes it like a “fever dream” – Yeah, we were playing our set at the house of blues, and it was interrupted by the original R2D2 and some legit storm troupers. Then as we were breaking down to move to the other room, William Hung and the “She Bang dancers” comes out to the stage. Then I pass Oscar from the office in the green room and Flava Flav wearing his clock taking some pictures with guests… it actually sounds like a fever dream. Anyway, throw in some Hollywood Zombies, the original DeLorean from back to the future and a $1,000 pinball contest – it was a great night. And – the cherry on top – we killed out 3 sets!
This week I had a chance to check out the 2022 version of USD football, first at the preseason scrimmage, then at the first game. While at the scrimmage, I was able to get a few words from Coach Lindsey – and his wife Eva. I caught up with the athletic director, butchered his name, then had a nice chat. Then talked to a WR who had a TD in the scrimmage. All in all, it was a great day and the team looks ready to do battle for another Pioneer League crown.
Hey everyone we have a special preview review episode! I am playing at the House of Blues Wednesday night with BJ and the Bizz and we talk about the event, the other guests, the past events, some girl’s search for cocaine (spoiler alert, she did not find it with us… or at least me…) Bj joins me to talk about his music at the Zoo and Safari Park and we talk about being at an event with Flava Flav, Oscar Nunez (the office) and past special guests. Gary Busey was booked for this gig, but … he has another commitment.
Today I spoke with CIF football crew chief Brian Mills. He has been refereeing for 21 years and has risen to the top of the San Diego County referee food chain. He talks about the declining relationship between coaches and officials, parents and officials and parents and coaches as the pressure mounts on kids playing sports. Parents today lose their mind, blaming officials, teammates, and coaches to avoid the scourge of being humiliated with a participation trophy and shattering the dreams of their kid playing professional sports. As fate would have it the day after we spoke, I went to a preseason scrimmage at USD, a place they often use as training for officials at the college level and ran into a few of his cohorts and prodded for dirt on Brian. The brotherhood is strong as they refused to contribute anything but a referendum on his bald head and praise for his cookies…
Today, to get my guest, I had to pixelate his face, distort his voice and beep his name and still had to make him an offer he couldn’t refuse. He had a fairly non-descript childhood, until his mom remarried – remarried to the mob! Hear how he was pampered and protected as a child and grew up under the watchful eye of members of “the club.” I learned a lot, and heard some juicy stuff I could not use. Part one is a fascinating look into the real, daily lives of this one particular “connected” family. Feuds, plots, incidents and accidents, and mostly his spoiled childhood – my guest tells all, well most, well some good stuff.
Today my guests are two local, up and coming musical artists! Both write and sing their own songs, and have music out there! Make sure you check them out. Carjanae and SuperduperPark join me in the studio to talk about music and how to reach audiences and expand your brand. How to connect with producers and editors and the pros and cons of distributing music today versus back in the day. I am reminded, more than once, how old I am, and how I am not the demographic for their music, AND how unsophisticated I am with today’s social media… like I did not know…
Today I have a follow up with 4 – count ‘em 4 – cancer survivors. They vary in age, gender, cancer diagnosis and treatment and how they are moving on! They have some words of advice: Get you mammograms, know your body, follow up with doctor if things are out of whack, and “feel it on the first” reminding you to do a self body screening the first of every month. We talk about how to a self check for women and men. I drop (repeatedly) about my band playing at the House of Blues … I just really like saying that… Details at Tonyonthemic.com and drop the first, very sloppy rendition of a Leadbelly / Ram Jam inspired song called “Mammogram” sung to the tune of Black Betty from the 70s, or 30s depending on which version you know. We do one vignette in studio, one via zoom, and one recorded on a phone as the equipment malfunctioned.
My guest today double Eisner award winner David F Walker. He received two of the prestigious awards at Comic Con the day after he joined me on the podcast. His list of credentials is way too long but Google this dude. He has worked for DC and Marvel and birthed a wholly original character from idea to a TV show – check out Naomi! He has projects in the pipeline and a long list of work and credits. David learns how much I disliked him back in the day and why, find out why we still hate the late John Morgan. David has a project, Bitter Root in the process, has won awards for his graphic novels depicting the life of Fredrick Douglass and the Black Panther Party - Obviously separate stories.
Today my guest is NYT best selling author Jonathon Evison. His latest release, Small World, is a sweeping epic of the American experience. (Yes, have read it, and yes, it is really good. No, I didn’t come up with the term “sweeping epic – that was someone much smarter than me.) He also wrote the book “The Fundamentals of Caregiving” which became a movie currently available on Netflix. It is based on his time as a caregiver for a young man with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and stars Paul Rudd. It is funny, hopeful and honest. He also currently has the number 2 book on the banned book request list in “Lawn Boy.” This was his first work that I read and loved it. Let’s see what we can do to move it to number one! The idea that we are still trying to ban books in 2022 makes me sad.
Folks, I want to apologize to you and Jonathon. People do so many of these press junkets and interviews, they have to get tired of doing these things. Here at Tony on the Mic, I want to tell the story, but more, just give people a chance to tell their story while being themselves. Talk about things they like and appreciate. This episode reminded me of that mission as we talked books, inspiration, process, etc for the first half, but he became energized towards the end when we started talking sports, music and kids! Lord knows I would rather talk kids and sports etc, so from now on there will be more of that! It also could have been partly to recording at 7:30 AM or some crazy early time. We make a future bet about how the Seattle Seahawks will do this year, I recorded it to have a record of it, if I lose, I have a feeling the evidence will be destroyed.
Today my guest is David Elizondo, cofounder of First Light Whiskey. It is a coffee infused whiskey. A local American Whiskey made with Organic Agave and Real coffee extract. I take my first on air shot, 2 actually, one of each flavor. I thought this was going to be a Bailey’s-esque sweet, flavored drink, but it was a delicious coffee infused, smooth whiskey. I am not a big drinker and was thrilled at the smooth texture. We go through the ideation process that came out of a class project while David was a grad student at SDSU. Hand mixing thousands of gallons to find the right flavor profile. Then a release and distribution and marketing strategy. I am serious when I say he is invested in this and proud of his baby. Tune in to see if I can hold it together after 2 shots – which is an awful lot for me! Also, for a limited time, you can go to firstlightwhiskey.com and get 15% off and free shipping when you enter the promo code TonyontheMic – my first promo code! They say you always remember your first… promo code.
Today on the podcast – Katy Perry! The Rock! Ryan Reynolds! Gal Gadot! John Mayer! Alyssa Milano! ... All had their caricature drawn by this guy… Caricature artist to the stars – Greg Dohlen. AKA – the King of Sting! That’s a nickname he was given on the comedy central show Nathan For You. We talk about his humble beginnings, from drawing his crush in high school, to touring a children’s hospital with Alyssa Milano drawing the kids to cheer them up and chatting about caricatures with John Mayer. He also did a deep dive into 3D drawing (which I cut most of it out – you’re welcome) designed a float in this year’s Rose Parade! He also pulled out all the stops to propose to his wife!
Today my guest is a former fighter pilot and Blue Angel, and also commercial pilot for Southwest Airlines. His biggest fear was not a Mach 1 barrel roll maneuver, but general seating on a southwest flight from LA to Vegas. He tells us how real Top Gun 1 and 2 are, he shares his flight name, spoiler alert, not near as cool as Maverick or Joker or Viper. He does a terrible Russian accent, describes a real life encounter with a MIG and how he proposed to his wife four days after their face to face meeting – they were pen pals for a long time. He also spent some time caddying on the pro golf tour and had an encounter with Arnold Palmer! I made up the Mach one barrel maneuver, but Jerry tells real stories with real terms in the pod!
Today’s guest is a return guest, Jerome Gross – fitness coach, yoga and spiritual guide and, wait for it, hypnotist. We talk more about the mind body connection and the importance of mental and spiritual health for how it affects us and our bodies. We talk about how it takes practice, commitment and most of all a willingness to be better. Most of us, me included are afraid to be better. It is a lot easier to poke fun at stuff that is faulty, than try to rise above it. We talk about past lives, death and the afterlife, and the effects of affirmations. We talk about savants (for lack of better word) There are lots of examples of people who have inherent skills and gifts – Beethoven, Einstein, Darwin, Mozart, Socrates, Isaac Newton – those are extreme examples, and semi easily defined. But it tells you what is possible, what is in us. We can do so much more than we do, the possibilities are infinite!
So sit down, strap in, turn on and turn up this hypnotic episode of Tony on the Mic!
Before we start, you should check out Jerome’s cites and classes mindbodyfitsd.com He has zoom classes and activities and in person group and individual training – physical and spiritual and mental.
Tony DeBlois Learned to play piano at 2 years old. Plays 20 instruments and plays any type of music.
Daniel Tammet can “see” numbers, recite pi from memory up to the 22,514 digits. He learned the Icelandic language in one week and made up a language.
Stephen Wiltshire, an autistic mute, is an accomplished artist has the ability to draw from the finest details from memory. After Viewing Rome from a helicopter one time, he created a 15 foot mural in great detail.
Today my guest is former CA judge and current Family court attorney Deann Salcido. She was the youngest Latina ever appointed to judgeship in CA. We talk about her ascension to judgeship and the conflicts she had while serving. We hear how she tried to do it her way and stand up for the little guy in her own way. We talk about some cases, some sentencing and, as usual, some nonsense.
On today’s episode Cyber expert Jim Stickley leads us down a dark, scary rabbit hole into the Dark Web. We teach you step by step how to access the dark web. No it is not WWW.Darkweb.com – but it’s not far from that. You learn how to search anonymously for everything thing from poison, to flamethrowers, to hitmen, to kidneys to weed infused girl scout cookies, and obviously much more, and some really dark stuff. We talk a bit about how to protect your computer while you do it, and how to talk to your kids about what is out there. I learn way too much about Jim and his family’s communication techniques and he has a good laugh at how naïve I am.
Scooch over Cinco De Mayo, St. Patrick’s Day, Octoberfest – there is another reason to celebrate! Juneteenth is here and an official federally acknowledged Holiday! Learn why this is an important date in American History and, as importantly – celebrate! There are never too many reasons to celebrate. There are Juneteenth celebrations springing up all over the country – find one near you, check it out and join in the revelry. Today we talk a little about the local La Mesa celebration, but there is sure to be one near you!
My guest today is Anthony Jerome – A yoga enthusiast, mind body and spirit counselor, energy healer, hypnotherapist, and intuitive reader. He balances my chi, eases some of my pain – for real – as I try to walk the line of being open minded while pushing back a little. He is also a fitness enthusiast and trainer. Has worked with professional athletes and was a record-breaking track athlete. He grew up in San Diego and has traveled to India 5 times as part of his spiritual journey. He works with people to give you the tools to navigate stress, fears, sadness, anxiety and other obstacles to health, happiness, balance and productivity. We talk about his early exposure to the energy he got at home from his mom, and I his travels and studying under other gurus. He tells us about being a vegan in high school (before being a vegan was a thing, or cool) how your consciousness can heal your body and mind. We also have set up another episode where he will heal my energy, hypnotize me, and get me on the path of enlightenment – I take this seriously, and hopefully will benefit greatly from some of the practices.
My guest today is award winning magazine ad man, our own little Don Draper – Jay Carter! He has spent a career is pharmaceutical advertising and serving. Some might say the two are mutually exclusive. We talk about his job and his journey, the ethics of prescription drug pricing, and his broad recognition in the field: including 2018 Alumni of the year from University of Michigan pharmacy college, and 2022 winner of a Pinnacle and a Manny – both anointing person of the year in the field! Jay is one of the best guys I know and one of the most annoyingly humble guys also.. So, when he starts to drone on and deflect instead of bragging (which is just telling the truth) I inject a little random Benny hill in the background or other zany sound effects. He tells the fascinating story of the adoption of his youngest, the origins and costs of Viagra, how he was one of the first people to try on-line dating on “Love at AOL,” which evolved into Match.com – and how me met (some say trapped) his wife there. He tells us about his massive wine collection and involvement in and appreciation of the girl scouts.
As a companion piece to the Richard Lawrence interview, we revisit a couple of hip, young, dedicated activists... at least that is what they were in the 60s, when they both were involved with the famous Selma to Montgomery march. The met through coincidence (grandkids in little league) and 10 years after they met, they realized through casual conversation that they had worked side by side 50 years earlier in Alabama! Hear how a black minister from the south side of Chicago and a white seminary student from San FRancisco saw the events in Selma.
Today’s episode is a little different. Reverend Richard Lawrence, who protested with Martin Luther King Jr, and was also a part of the historic march from Selma to Montgomery Alabama, was featured a little while back on Popular Nation, where he discussed a lifetime of dedication to social justice, civil rights and equality. He talks about his early days in the church and the movement, how he picked his specific church – spoiler alert, it was because they had a baseball team. He compares the issues and efforts, then versus now. He also talks about the wins, the losses the progress and the toll it took on his life and relationships.
Today my guest is Yoga guru / enthusiast Jennifer DeMarco. She teaches at couple of colleges, a couple of spas and resorts and has a website dropping soon! Listen to her talk about her introduction to yoga and lifestyle. She ranks Zumba, Richard Simmons, Jazzercise, Tae-bo and other exercise classes, as well as her top all time Swami’s and Gurus! We talk about how to keep cool under pressure, forgive – others AND your self and which band is better, the Rolling Stones or Led Zeppelin and much more!
Tracy Stone has been making a living performing since his lip sync days back at Mt. Hood Community College, where we met. He graduated from lip-syncs and dance contests to performing with Romeo and as the Amazing Tracy Stone. He did USO tours, Japan, Guam, Philippines and more! His current band, Designband (not “the” Designband) performs all over the greater northwest at casinos, clubs as well as weddings and private events. We met at MHCC and competed for years in lip syncs, dance contests and everything under the sun. I got a real job, and he has been steady performing since. I have been jealous (in a good way) ever since.
On this, the farewell episode of Tony on the mic, I have such a horrible performance at a party I seriously contemplate hanging up the microphone for good. Between calling the 90 year old guest of honor the wrong name… about 17 times… and not scouting the place to check Wi-Fi and wireless capabilities, it was a sh*t show from beginning to end. My brother BJ tries to cheer me up and talk me off the ledge – with mixed results. Listen in on how a seasoned vet, with his 10,000 hours (which should make him an expert) on a microphone, completely got the yips and couldn’t do or say anything right.
So sit down strap in, turn on and turn up this colossal failure episode of Tony on the Mic!
On this episode, BJ and I talk about my trip to Portland, where I sang with an old friend’s band, saw the Blazers at the new Moda center, got to see my nieces, whom I really like (when they aren’t being mean.) One niece won a state championship in basketball, one won a state championship in Gymnastics and the one who was the biggest winner of all, got to hang out with me! Update on Mom’s stroke recovery and Valory’s cancer journey, a few travel tips and hidden gems, and more!
Today Jim McDowell and I break down “the slap heard ‘round the world” – Will Smith slapped Chris Rock over a joke he made at Jada Pinket-Smith’s expense. The Fresh Prince's life got flipped turned upside down. Did Chris Rock cross the line? Is Will Smith and his wife Jada fair game at an event like that? Was it a roast? Is violence ever the answer? We will tell you. We will answer all of the questions… because we know… everything…
Today I am joined by John Brooks, writer and producer of “19 Shades of Black,” a documentary asking 19 black women about their experience and women of color in the world today. This award-winning documentary has been in several festivals and is available to the public for a limited time. We meet the author and learn of his inspiration for the project and the process. He shares his passion for language and travel and his encyclopedia level knowledge of Star Trek. We hear about his campaigns for congress, (yes, “campaigns,” plural ... glutton for punishment I guess) his musical proclivity, other projects and what he would have as a last meal.
Today I am joined by the Macrina Sisters, two airtight sisters who shared experiences like most sisters, then were there for each other as they each went through breast cancer resulting in double mastectomies. They talk about what is was like to go through it, and to watch their sister go through it. How wonderful it was to have the support system, and also how painful it was to watch someone you are that close to go through it. One grew up a star BMX rider, one of the very few girls in the mostly boys sport in the 80s. One wants to be the jump rope queen and once even went to a jump rope “meet up…” One reads smut, one makes comfort pillows and they both love mashed potatoes. Their attitude is instrumental in getting through this.
Today I am joined by Marina Inserra, the most beautiful woman in the world according to a role she played in a 2019 Movie Ruta Madre! She got the credit, but her part ended up on the editing room floor… She was Miss California 2014 and Scuba Queen USA and competed for Scuba Queen International (Miss India won the title that year.) She has trained dolphins, done lots of theater, and been to at least 17 countries, including living in Abu Dhabi! She tells us which podcast is better, this one or Mike Bissett’s. Find out her origins in the pageant world, her favorite things in several categories and what song she would play in her headphones in the electric chair! At the end of the episode is a mashup of a few of her talent portion songs – check out the original versions on YouTube!
Today – the topic is Stumptown! I am not sure if anyone actually calls it that, but we went to Portland Oregon to see family and friends! BJ helps ne navigate the tales and the headline is we got very little rain and Mt Hood was out almost every day! I saw cousins and nieces and nephews and lots of friends. Met up with David Walker (27:25) for some inspiration and started scheming to exploit his success, had a Village People / Greased Lightning reunion with some old friends at Hooligans' (49:00) and caught the number 1 girls basketball team in the state of Oregon win a tournament game! (35:25 and 1:17:00) The Best Western Pony Soldier Inn made my son sit outside in 34 degree weather in only a T-shirt because… well… they were stupid and lazy (got to hear that story) and had almost everything on the Elmer’s menu!
Todays guest is Kyle Keys! Kyle has Adrenomyelonueropathy – AMN. I it is an inherited condition that attacks the nervous system. At 21 he started showing symptoms and at 26 he was confined to a wheelchair. At 36, he talks about dealing with the slow degenerative process, accessibility in today’s world, and the lessons he learned. We discuss the soft bigotry of low expectations and people wondering how he could always or be in a good mood or drive. We hear about his trip to Russia and seeing the actual body of Lenin AND George Hamilton, one was tombed one was tanned (guess which is which) we talk about his favorite movies, Laker
Adrenomyeloneuropathy
(AMN) is an inherited condition that affects the spinal cord. It is a form of X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy. On average, people with AMN begin to develop features in their twenties. Signs and symptoms may include progressive stiffness and weakness of the legs; ataxia; speech difficulties; adrenal insufficiency. Some people with AMN also have brain involvement which can lead to behavioral abnormalities, vision loss, hearing problems, and/or seizures. AMN is caused by (mutations) inherited in an X-linked manner
Hello folks – if you have ever played little league, had kids play little league, coached little league or even heard of little league – today’s podcast is for you! Three former league presidents sit down and reminisce about kids, parents and coaches and try to stay civil and semi discreet. This was 3 hours of letting off steam and laughing, cut down to about 90 minutes. It could have been a whole podcast series on its own – and might still be! We namedrop and tease some people we like and respect, we edit out many others and try to stay on track sharing what it is like to run a youth sports organization! - Complete with outtakes at the end...
Kon'nichiwa people! Today I am joined by Takato Kido, star receiver for the Panasonic Impulse and his sidekick QB Anthony Lawrence ahead of the big game – the Rice bowl, The Japanese Super Bowl. We navigate the language divide to learn about American football in Japan, how it’s integrated in the culture and how it compares to the American version. We learn about Japanese food, movies, music and more! We pay homage to a Jackie Chan reference (even though Jackie Chan is from Hong Kong, and Kido is Japanese, the bit still holds up… pretty well…) We dump on the city of Irvine and try to coax Kido to come to San Diego! Kido wades through the language gap and the foolishness and shows a sense of humor that almost matches his football prowess.
On today’s episode, I am joined by 2 of the biggest web-heads on the planet – no, not internet website guys, but Spiderman fans Jarrod Weintraub and Richie Lawrence. We spoil Spiderman No Way Home – if you have not seen it – don’t listen! Just download because I need the numbers, then come back and listen later. I crown it my favorite superhero movie of all time. We have several covers of the iconic theme, spoilers and Easter Eggs galore, internet chatter and call backs. Anthony unwittingly chimes in from Japan via text. If you like Spiderman, you should listen. If you love Spiderman – you HAVE to listen!
Make sure listen (or fast forward) to the end for a nice Christmas / Spiderman song parody by Chris Pine – How did I miss this?
Today my guest is my brother BJ! We start out talking about his impending hip replacement (his second) and do some “hip” puns. It quickly devolves into story time about adult softball, what happens when you don’t warm up and trying to get your body to do what your brain still thinks it can do. We chop it up about the time he chopped it up with Donnie Most – you may know him as Happy Days’ Ralph Malph, being on Game shows, being called onto the stage to sing during a Michael Franti and Spearhead concert, and we complain that our father was too noble, and not enough Joel Osteen. We also answer the age-old question – is listening to a book on tape the same a actually reading a book?
Today is the return of the Doc – my wife’s favorite guest, doctor Davey! We talk about the latest on Covid (a little) and he shares some fun tales from the ER (No, he was not an ER Doc, but it sounds more catchy than “tales from the virologist and contagious specialist”) We talk about myths and facts in the supplement fields (yeah, you are probably wasting a lot of money, I was) The placebo effect, Keto versus Mediterranean diet, Cryotherapy, B-12 shots and more! We also learn that to be a drug, there has to be a controlled series of tests, but supplements and other stuff need no such tests. So if you have a general question, Davey is the perfect guest of patient and funny, but VERY non committal about results – he relies 100% on data and test results, no emotion1 He is like Spock and Dr. McCoy had a baby! Follow him @ DaveySmithMD on your socials.
Today my guest is Jennifer Mutter, she went on a years long journey in search of her birth parents and the results will surprise you! She shares a tale of a series of remarkable coincidences and a story filled with laughter, tears and inspiration. With her trusty personal Sherlock Holmes (our friend Nelson Dean) she delves into the internet and ancestry websites and more to unlock a part of her past. We had to condense some of the details for time, I found a fun and funny way to do that. We also learn about her, her kids, her first crush on Little “Wonny” and who wins the celebrity crush battle – tops seeds are Bradley Cooper and Vince Vaughn. That and lots more good stuff
Hey Folks – I’m back! Sorry for the downtime, but an out of town funeral, followed by a covid scare and – three count ‘em THREE negative covid tests, then an accidental overdose on cough syrup that landed me in the hospital … well… it has been a month. My brother Bj helps me navigate this episode as I try to describe my first “TRIP,” and defend my honor and integrity against the accusation that I was trying the sizzurp, lean, or “Purple drank” for fun, because it was no fun at all. (Fun fact – in 2019 an estimate 1 out of 10 teenagers used cough syrup or cold medicine to get high) … Anyway, my family thought I was having a stroke, I thought I was dying and a few days in the hospital later – they found a cyst on my brain… good times…
This Episode is part two with Reverend Dr. Tom Owen-Towle. He does seminars on graceful aging and mindful dying, and we talk about preparing to die … seriously, it is more fun and more interesting than that makes it sound. Nobody wants to talk about, or plan for, death. Tom points out all data and science points to death happening in 100.00% human lives. Talk to those nearing the end. Mend fences. Spell out your wishes. Tom tells us all the things we should be dealing with, celebrating and getting rid of – material possessions as well as emotional baggage.
This touches home as I board a plane for Massachusetts to say good bye to my Uncle Cliff who passed away. Talking with Tom helped me formulate my thoughts and feelings and prepare to say good by to a close relative.
My guest today is the Reverend Dr. Tom Owen-Towle. He has written books on Conscious Aging and Mindful Dying, as well as many other books on spirituality and living. The timing on this is a bit distracting as I had a death in the family shortly before recording. If you only listen to the first couple minutes, hear this: Say I love you. Make the call. Make amends and mend fences. It sounds cliché, but it is so important. Also, take care of the practical – do you want to be cremated? Buried? If so where? What kind of funeral? Formal? Casual? Theme? Try to arrange for payment of most if not all of it and make sure it is easy for those left to have the information. Do you have a will? If not, make one? Be as specific as possible.
Check out www.TomO-T.com to get books and more info on Tom.
To those left, communicate your feelings early and often Ask questions. Ask for what you want, don’t expect it, you may not get it, but let them know it means something to you. Don’t be a turd and ask for the most expensive things they own, but ask for something that means something to you. The valuables will hopefully sort themselves out. Letting someone know they have something that means something to you is a wonderful gift. For me it was one of Uncle Cliff’s signature hats. I am not the only one who wants one, and I already have one, but I wanted a few. He had several and I would ask him when is going to die and to make sure I am in the will for those hats. It is not as funny now that he has passed, but anyone who knew him, even for a minute, knows he is laughing at that right now.
The 2021 GHS cheerleaders share their reflections about walking onto the field for the last time as Foothillers.
Here we go with part two of the awkward meets the awesome weekend! The grown up “cool” Tony revisits the stomping ground of clumsy, evolving Tony. We meet the legends Gail and Kimmie face-to-face. Kelly Dufford’s light still shines as bright as it did in high school. I come to terms with my preconceived notions of Summerville versus the reality. I have a new nemesis – Randy Ward – he thought he was so cool on the dance floor… My wife rents me out to anyone who doesn’t have a dance partner, and much much more about people you probably don’t know! We pick up after me, a racially mixed kid moved from an all black Chicago neighborhood to a more segregated South Carolina in the late 70s. I had a huge chip on my shoulder, like most high school kids. I felt invisible, like most high school kids - dealt with divorce, crushes, insecurities and triumphs. We talked last time about the trip and the events leading up to the first night gathering. If you missed part one, go back and check it out as it sets the stage for the 40 year reunion on Summerville high school! If you are listening to this live (or semi live, it is a podcast) Summerville takes on Fort Dorchester high school THIS Friday night, October 8th at Summerville! Lets go Green Wave!
The long-awaited reunion episode! Part one! So many memories it is a 2 parter! With my brother BJ as co-pilot I talk about how this summer, the wittiest person in the class of 1981 (750+ graduates) went to my 40 year high school reunion in Summerville SC. Everyone was so much older than I was! And I was so much cooler than they all remembered. I talk about how teenage Tony processed the south and how the grown up Tony reconciled it. I pay tribute the holy trinity of high school crushes, invite the most well know alum of that year – Perry Cuda – to come on the podcast. I was also crowned king of the dance floor. Talk about shark’s teeth, grits, and southern hospitality – which is a real thing! Shout outs to Jamie at Waffle House, Blake at Hyman’s and congrats to Bryn and Nigel – a couple we met in the lobby after their wedding, they all get mentions in this episode. I went on a diet, bought some Rogaine and wrinkle cream and held my stomach in for a 48 hour trip down memory lane!
Today I sit down with Scott Atwood, recovering alcoholic. He has not a drink in 17 years, but still has to focus day to day and considers himself “recovering.” He talks about his days of hiding vodka bottles in snowbanks and nights of drinking alone. He has sponsored several people, why some were successful, and some weren’t. We also talk about some of his youthful shenanigans, his go to deep dish pizza joint, his faith in mankind – moving to new regions without a job. And his great leap to San Diego for Love – and the ultimatum that made him face his demons and make a choice.
On this episode I sit down with Valory J Lawrence and she opens up about her struggle with weight, injuries and pain. She is battling depression, injuries and immobility. We launch a contest to name her crippling bitch of an inner voice, and hatch a plan to kill it. We talk about her comedy touring days and how that was. We also try to look forward and lay out a plan to mobility and health.
Can I get an Amen? Today I talk to the God Squad - shout out to Keeping the Faith – Ordained Reverends Tom Owen-Towle and Richard Lawrence met in the stands of a little league field watching their grandkids play. They enjoyed each other’s company and talked about sports, life and Religion. Then years later, they discovered they both participated with Martin Luther King, John Lewis etc. and marched from Selma to Montgomery for voting rights for black people. They came from Chicago and California and helped clean fields prepare sleep areas for the famous multiday march. Here their tales about the march, their view of the progress over the last 50 years and what we can do today to keep doing God’s good work. We mix in some gospel music and spread the word and my dad talks a little about … Kale?
Brian is a 26 year-old Engineer with a great job, a wife, new baby and just bought a house. Then, during Covid, he was diagnosed with Lymphoma. He shares how he tried to make sense of it all and how he coped with it. He is in the middle of his Chemo schedule and the prognosis is good! We also talk about his days as a science nerd, band nerd and just all-around nerd. We talk about the time he saved a 2 year old from drowning in a neighborhood pool, his scenic proposal to his wife, he tells me what songs “slap” and more!
On this episode I get to know Chris Holmes, the new head coach of the Grossmont High school football team. He talks about his history coaching high school football here in east county, much of it with Foothiller rivals. Chris credits his coaching influences and mentors, some of his favorite teammates, players and moments and his goals with the team. We talk about student transfers, 7 on 7s, and other high school football topics. We learn he is a SpongeBob guy, a big Tupac fan – that took a turn – and we discuss which John Wick was the best of the trilogy.
My guest today is Jonathon Evison, New York Times best selling author. Adult content, lots of candor and I stopped beeping about 1/3 of the way through… Jonathon wrote All about Lulu and Lawn Boy, both of which I read and recommend, and he just released Legends of the North Cascades, which I have bought, but not read yet, its on the list! He has another half dozen books and his latest, small world, is due out next year. We talk about his process and inspirations, generational parenting and do a deep dive into Seattle Music and some Seattle sports. He sings his rejected original jingle for the Seattle chamber of commerce. He once kicked someone out of his band, who later help form, and is still a member of Pearl Jam… I guess it worked out for both of them.
A little "adult" language, and less than perfect sound due to the zoom - but a fun, nonstop ride!
I sat down with Dalton in the spring when there was talk of some schools playing football in the spring. Utah played a (semi) regular schedule, so I waited until he started camp at Utah to release it. Dalton talks Division 1 football and the transfer portal. He talks about the Utes and the season outlook, his favorite teammates at Utah and at USD. Why he transferred and how that all came down. We also talk about his lost loves, first crushes, his “agile, birthing hips,” and day 8 hazing at USD. WE compare old school music versus new school music, and he stabs me in the heart with what he considers “old school” – spoiler alert, most of it I think is pretty current… We also go on a surprising Taylor Swift deep dive and I learn the new way to dunk an Oreo!
On this episode I sit down with author Mikel J. Wilson. After fleeing Tennessee for the greener pastures in California, Mikel hit some hard times and ended up living on the streets for a while. He never lost focus and just released his 3rd book in the Mourning Dove Mysteries series, and his 4th book overall. We talk about his journey, his inspiration, his process and the highs and the lows. His novels are not just “who done it?” but also “how done it?” as he incorporates clever mysteries into the methods, not just the murderers! We talk good food, fun places to visit, and bad television. I poke fun at his singing and humor as I try to pull this self-described introvert a little out of his shell.
On this episode, I sit down with Dale Lindsey, former long time NFL player and coach, and current USD head coach as they break camp for a new season. I did this at his office! Yes, my first mobile recording! Coach Lindsey had a locker next to Jim Brown, played against Ray Nitschke, Gale Sayers Dick Butkis and more! Was the Defensive coordinator in San Diego and coached Junior Seau. He compares him to Brian Urlacher and Ray Lewis. He left the infamous “thin thirty” at Kentucky (look it up) and went on to be drafted and have a great career. He talks about players and pensions then and now, his dinner at the same table as Joe DiMaggio, the origins of Rock and roll and how his wife makes him listen to Opera, while he preferred the Opry!
On this episode I sit down with Sam Spenny and talk about her work as an animal advocate and her role in breaking up a puppy peddler ring. She also candidly shares her story about miscarriages and her miracle baby. Despite the serious issues, we manage to have an open conversation that is not as much of a bummer as it seems! We also talk about her coaching gymnastic and dance, the impact she hopes to make on her student athletes, and I get challenged to do a real cartwheel! Actually, it was a one-handed cartwheel, but that is just crazy talk.
On this beep free, explicit episode, I sit down with comics Ryan Shores and eventually Dallas McLaughlin. They talk about local comedy and the evolution of their careers, bring up a bunch of people you have never heard of and make fun of me and my sponsors … I am trying to remember why I actually had them on my show… They talk about bar fights and bringer shows and debate the eternal question: To drink or not to drink before a show. Tune in for a train wreck of a conversation, but in a fun way.
On today’s episode, I am joined by fast rising coaching prodigy Rene Clark. He tells us how he quickly jumped into coaching after his college football career. Why he got into it and how he has climbed so fast. He talks about what he loves about coaching, recruiting and all things football. He talks about growing up racially mixed, shares what makes him cry, and we do an NBA deep dive. That and much more! I also hear there is an extended interview that Rene secured, but if you see him, ask him about it!
My guest today is publicist and author Jennifer Coburn. We follow her from NY prep school to University of Michigan to San Diego. While partially a New Yorker at heart, she loves SD now. She has published several books and optioned one for a movie – her new book Cradles of the Reich is scheduled for release in September 2022. A handmaid’s Tail-esque story about a real Nazi birth camp, where they tried to breed 2 million perfect Germans… Hear how her introvert husband proposed during an improv show and she thought he was ruining the scene! She is a volunteer at the great organization Reality changers, an organization that helps underprivileged high school students prep for college or the job market. She sings poorly, shares freely, laughs loudly and tells some great stories!
On this episode I sit down with Former Chief of Police Shelley Zimmerman, and one of her first partners on the force, my cousin Gary Lawrence. Both retired from the police dept., and we talk about the pros and cons of being a police officer and tell some stories from the field. Chief Zimmerman went undercover at a high school BEFORE there was such a thing as 21 Jump Street! First female SDPD Chief, and her 35 years sets a record for female sworn officers. Her post career endeavors include training for an Iron man triathlon and a 640 mile bike ride to raise money for charity. My cousin Gary is also on the podcast. (Just kidding Gary… )
On this episode, I sit down with Dep. City Attorney Jeff Brooker. We talk about his job, his obsession – Star Wars – his old days as the sexy, right-out-of-the-movies pool boy, a little Star Wars, Red Flag laws and a little more Star Wars (I edit out 90% of the Star Wars talk) We play the Newlywed game to find out how well he knows his wife, and we talk a long walk down memory lane. A great, heart touching episode of Tony on the Mic!
My guest today is Seth Hettena, a writer for Rolling Stone Magazine. He has a documentary about Rudy Giuliani being made through Rolling Stone to be released in 2022 (same producing team as Ozark.) He talked Jazz with Hugh Heffner, war and wag the dog with Woody Harrelson, and was menaced by G. Gordon Liddy. He also opens up about overcoming his struggle with marijuana and his inner conflict about the legalization of it. Lots of cool stuff!
In part two of the Tarantino retrospective, we cover Inglorious Basterds through Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and crown the ultimate Quentin Tarantino movie! BJ, Jarrod, Jim and I go over quotes, tension scenes, great performances, and detail. If you like Tarantino, and you like us, you will like this episode!
On this BEEP FREE episode, I sit down with BJ, Jarrod and Jim and discuss Quentin Tarantino. We start with his early stuff and writing credits, and then break down our favorite movies to ultimately crown the Top Tarantino Movie! We tease Jarrod for being a racist, Jim about Asian stereotypes and BJ for being an idiot – full disclosure, Jarrod is not a racist… he just plays one podcasts. Jim does impressions and we go through Reservoir Dogs through Kill Bill 2, then dive into the rest in part 2!
On this episode I am joined by the old Life’s a Binge crew, well, most of it - BJ, Jarrod and Rich. We talk a long walk down Eddie Murphy memory lane. From his stand up, to SNL, to his enormous movie presence. We include His party all the time fame and much more! If you like Eddie Murphy, you will love to laugh and reminisce along with us as we crown the ultimate Eddie Murphy Movie! Plenty of quotes, quips and laughs.
On today’s episode, we sit down with Karen Caires and discuss her upcoming breast cancer surgery. The Grossmont College Women’s basketball head coach talks about the diagnosis, the options, and how she made her final decision to have a bilateral mastectomy. She shares her journey and gives lots of insights into her choices. We also talk about basketball, recruiting, a little pop culture and her daughters and courage. We talk about coping and the importance of staying positive. She is getting reconstructive surgery and I ask what celebrity’s breasts she is going to get… spoiler alert, she doesn’t tell me.
Today on Tony on the Mic I sit down with reigning DJ Hersch! - GHS teacher of the year and District teacher of the year and finalist for SD county teacher of the year. He is also a popular local DJ and party host. He has won awards from The History Channel, Facebook, Twitter and the National academy of arts and sciences. We talk about returning to in person classes after Covid, he gets some “DJ emergency” situations and we hear about his strategy and chat with his former students about the impact he has had on them. Local / Grossmont heavy episode, but a lot of fun and DJ information and insight you can’t get anywhere else!
The boys are back to take care of unfinished business as we crown the best baseball movie of all time. Last episode we narrowed it down to eight, this week, we crown a champ. It is a fun trip down memory lane and all eight are movies that touched us and live on in our hearts and memory. If you like baseball movies, check out this episode!
In this Episode, Jarrod Weintraub, BJ Lawrence and Matt Thompson and I talk baseball movies! In the preamble to our definitive baseball movie, we talk about the best songs associated with baseball, the best characters – Wild Thing or Nuke LaLoosh? Benny the Jet or Roy Hobbs? Kelly Leak or Dottie Henson? IS there a better baseball song that “Someday We’ll Go all the Way? What actors have been in multiple baseball movies? How did they convince Phil Rizzuto to do a sophomoric play by play in Meatloaf’s Paradise by the Dashboard Lights? Just fun, silly baseball talk.
This episode features very little of me, and heavy doses of the Grossmont High School 2021 Senior football players and cheerleaders. The Covid postponed and shortened football season provided challenges and obstacles and hopefully, some memories of friends, strength and overcoming. It was at rough year, and here, in their own words, is what their team, sport and school meant to them. Not a lot of laughs, but some great, sincere things that mean a lot right now, but will mean so much more in 20 years and beyond. Football starts at 13:00
Today’s guest is the one and only (thank goodness) 17-time Emmy winner Joe Little of NBC 7/39. He talks about his journey from a being a D1 basketball player (and the only player on the roster without an assist one year) to Multimedia Journalist and feature reporter in America’s finest city. Why he interviewed me once, when it certainly was not news. Joe talks about being one of the first on the scene when United flight 93 crashed on 9/11, documenting the final cleaning out of Tony Gwynn’s locker and how a door knock (news term) revealed much more than he expected. We talk about movies, do a live Siri V Google assistant test, discover the meaning of Nena’s 99 Luft balloons, and he mocks Prince and my admiration of Prince… and I did not terminate the podcast! Tune in to a fun episode of Tony on the Mic!
Today we sit down with Davey Smith, infectious disease and viral researcher. We discuss his 12-16 hours a day in the field researching infectious disease, including his detailed work on Covid-19, and HIV before them. We talk treatments and progress about the disease, and about vaccines and variants. We talk about his journey in medicine and life.
Jarrod subs for a derelict Reid in the movie review segment
We learn about growing up gay in Tennessee and how his father insisted he couldn’t be gay, but his brother probably was. Spoiler alert – his brother is straight. We also talk about his obsession with Pokémon go, his writing, and he answers listener questions! Tune in for a fun ride, despite the subject matter, about Covid-19 on an entertaining and educational episode of Tony on the mic!
Today Montel Allen returns with his son Blake to talk about a covid cancelled, then reinstated senior football season. How his college coaches feel about him playing a live spring season before reporting to camp in July. We talk about the “Let them play” movement. We debate best running backs of all time, music back in the day versus music today and how much better Montell has become over the years in retrospect. Join us in a fun look inside a college bound high school senior football player trying to navigate life.
On the Eve or Grossmont football… yes football – in the spring – we get up close and personal with Foothiller head coach Tom Karlo. We here his background playing QB at Grossmont and in college, and his coaching journey through the ranks. We hear about his awful first date and worse proposal, and she said yes anyway! We talk about the team looking to the short spring season and some of his philosophies. Reid breaks down Bladerunner 2049 in the movie review segment! Tune in to Tom Karlo, part one! Too much for a single podcast!
On this episode I sit down with 5 senior football players and discuss a bizarre season, culminating in spring football. We look ahead to the season, look back on the impact of Covid on them and their sports, their favorite coaches and teammates, and least favorite coaches… Their hopes and plans for next year after graduation – Plus they each sing a tune for us (sort of) and we talk about the hot video games and how good they are at them, their favorite fast food and junk food and what they DID NOT want their coach to know about their off season… It is a fun look ahead with 5 players sharing their thoughts. Yours truly even tears up a little from a compliment from the team. Tune in!
Today on a local interest podcast, I sit down with Mason Randall, starting QB for the USD Toreros who kick off their season this Saturday March 13th versus Drake in Des Moines Iowa! We take a look at the team and the season ahead, what it is like to continue a QB legacy of success, the pressure of the conference winning streak which is gaining national attention – plus we talk about the long list of women who have broken up with him and why, which is better, the NFL or College football, Brady versus Jordan and his future in the sports reporting business! Reid Reviews the Kevin Smith classic Clerks. Tune in for a sports heavy episode of Tony on the Mic!
Today’s guest Jim Stickley is a regular on the Today show, has appeared on Dr Oz and the Rosen Report and does commercials for Lifelock! He speaks all over the country and around the world about cyber security. He has had guns pointed at him by cops AND robbers (for real). He used to hack into security systems and steal stuff to test security systems. He met his wife on a blind date – and it worked out! He shares stories about the biz and tells us why Humphrey Bogart is the man and Jimi Hendrix is barely better than the Beatles. He also hired Flava Flav, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, The Village People, William Hung – and ME! To play at his company bashes! Learn all about him on Tony on the Mic! In today’s movie segment, Reid reviews his all-time favorite movie – Casino Royale!
Tune in and listen to Hollywood hot shot Kevin Hyde, a boom mic operator with an impressive IMDB – He tells us about his current project, Netflix’s “Never have I Ever.” He compares being on the set with Jason Bateman and Samuel L Jackson… Spoiler alter, the results probably won’t surprise you. He shares why his first date with his wife was a trip to a Bull Fight in Mexico… and, for some reason she still married him. He talks about how Dustin Hoffman once desperately sought Kevin’s approval. He talks about the making of South Park, and why it is better than the Simpsons. We hear about his life and memories and journey! "Reid's all about it" takes us through the movie Whiplash! Turn on, Tune in and turn up this episode of Tony on the Mic
This week’s guest is Whitney You, M.D. – she is a Maternal Fetal Medicine specialist Whoa… She is a dedicated mother of four, a published author and burgeoning life coach! She shares some heartbreaking and some inspiring stories, tells us about her writing, past and future. We compare Alpacas and Raccoons, Tofu and Spam, a mishap on a water skiing trip and birthday party with Reggie Miller (yes, that Reggie Miller,) and how she almost joined a cult – she had to sneak out while the others were in yoga! … Reid reviews “A Promising Young Woman” in this week’s movie segment and much more!
This week we sit down with Montell Allen, CEO of MBA sports, Co-Owner of SDFNL and noted member of the high school football community here is San Diego. We talk about Transfer Rules, 7 on & and travel football and the plusses and minuses, College Sports, Title 9, and more! We also hear about his first kiss, his go to slow jam back in the day and his favorite movie – The Warriors. Reid Sinnett reviews Ratatouille and tells us why if you haven’t watched it lately, you should watch it again.
This episode of Tony on the Mic - Reid Sinnett part 2 - Reid and Anthony talk movies, Reid talks about developing his expensive tastes and appreciating the finer things in life … We do a Deep Disney Dive …We define the difference between cool and swag, and do a swag check – The examples may surprise you – James Bond, Dick Van Dyke’s chimney sweep Bert, Benny The Jet, Jack Sparrow - Winnie the Pooh… Anthony translates – “Nandeska!” from The Replacements from his time living in Japan …Reid Talks about his relationship with Anthony as competitors, and friends and they want to start a foundation – download and give it a listen!
On this episode, Renaissance man, Reid Sinnett talks about his journey to the NFL, his time in camp with Tom Brady, Ryan Fitzpatrick and his covid-19 shenanigans (all safe, just hilarious.) How he developed from a one-year starter in high school and one year starter in college to a guaranteed contract in the NFL. He and a mystery guest (with mic issues) discuss who should have been starting for 4 years at USD. He gives us a Superbowl prediction and we take a deep dive into his other interests, mainly his movie obsession. He gives an impromptu audition for having a regular segment – what do you think folks? If we get some decent feedback – we will let Reid become the official movie critic of Tony on the Mic!
In the follow up to Jarrod’s award winning podcast, we follow up because there is just too much to cover! We talk about his time as Biff at SeaWorld, His Podcast – Life’s A Binge’s origins, and a deep dive into the history and behind the scenes tension. Also his adventures in local theater and voice over work, and his favorite TV shows and movies. He tells his famous (infamous) Dirty Horse Joke – it is not a joke about a dirty horse, it is a dirty, horse joke.
On this episode, I am joined by Jarrod Weintraub. He is a local podcaster, was a “Biff” at SeaWorld and has done a ton of local theater. He is also a letter carrier, and shares stories from the route like what is the weirdest thing you have ever delivered and is it true dogs hate Mailmen? He talks about how he met his wife on line, and the challenges of raising a newborn son smack dab in the middle of Covid-19. We pick a nickname for his kid and write a commercial together! Relax, tune in and enjoy!
On this episode we sit down with USD and Pioneer league record holding QB Anthony Lawrence, who is now playing professionally in Japan. We learn some of the differences in culture and living and how football is pretty much the same. We hear how many NFL QBs he is better than right now and his plan and potential path to get there. He ranks his friends, declares Phil Dunphy his ride or die, tells about is first TV crush (“Sally” From Cars) and why he is still the king of Fortnite! Tune in for a fun ride – once he starts talking about his friends and girlfriend… the same old football questions he has answered 1,000 times didn’t get him too excited...
Today on Tony on the Mic, Author Rich Farrell shares with us how a midflight seizure tailhooked his plans to be the next Maverick or Goose, and set him on the journey to become an author! He talks about his book and the journey and inspirations and frustrations along the way. He talks about trying to promote a book during Covid. He opens up about his most memorable holiday traditions and memories, his favorite TV and movies, his influences and of course he sings a ditty or two. Join us for the fun!
We finish up our conversation with Dallas as he talks about his YouTube projects, his podcasts, dipping his toes into local politics with a run for Temecula Water Chief (9:01) The ups and downs of playing Dr Snigglewiggle at SeaWorld, He ranks his 3 dogs (41:55) and tells us about the time he met Steve Martin and Paul Simon.
Dallas McLaughlin, host of YouTube series Quarantine kitchen and Talks Chrome and The Kept faith Podcast, joins us and talks about the singing and dancing at a performing arts high school (5:15) the Youtube series he does with his daughter, Quarantine kitchen (18:40) Winning Super Mouth and $50K in a local talent seeking contest (25:20) his time on Yo Gabba Gabba and how he met his wife... on facebook... Tune in for a fun chat!
Get to know local big time photographer Rich Soublet. Find out about his free "How to" webinar on pet photography - who doesn't want to take a great picture of their pet? Also, his Black Presence Project. Here how he stabbed me in the back on National TV and his killer rendition of the Captain Planet Theme! Lots more on this episode of Tony on the Mic!
In this episode, Gary shares his affinity for "chick flicks" and I scold him about his outdated language. He shares an important milestone in puberty. We discuss KFC V El Pollo Loco, The Flintstones V the Jetsons and what it is to be a "man." Tune in for a deep dive into my cousin!
Get to know local big time photographer Rich Soublet. Find out about his free "How to" webinar on pet photography - who doesn't want to take a great picture of their pet? Also, his Black Presence Project. Here how he stabbed me in the back on National TV and his killer rendition of the Captain Planet Theme! Lots more on this episode of Tony on the Mic!
Another installment of interviews with La Mesa City Council Candidates. This episode we meet Mark Papenfuss. 13:00 - we hear how and why he was detained by the secret service. 15:29 why he got into La Mesa Politics and what he brings to the table. 40:05 - that time he got lost in Compton looking for his date (before GPS) 48:00 we learn his celebrity crush, which celebrity he dated and much more more!
2:45 - We learn what drew Ryan into comedy, 4:20 he talks about his book, 6:50 – plays a daytime Harley Davidson bike rally, 20:50 His Misfits tribute band, 23:10 he talks about his fighting career and his real life fight club. 30:30 He met his wife, a fetish model… we talk classic comedians, Sam Malone and his sexual harassment and much more! Tune in and enjoy Ryan Shores – spoiler alert – Episode one! There is so much more to tell in part two!
In the continuing series of La Mesa City Council Candidates, we get to know Laura Lothian. 5:50 - what is pickleball and why is Laura obsessed with it. 13:00 - her early memories of politics from the jungles of Guatemala while on vacation. 15:00 Why she is running for office and her views and solutions for issues here in La Mesa. 25:30 - we spar about the importance of winning youth sports games. 38:30 - We talk about Adam Sandler movies, The Rock, Cheeseburgers V Lasagna, The Notebook V The Fault in our Stars and more!!
Another installment featuring La Mesa City Council candidates, this episode is Jack Shu! We get to know a little about his background. 9:01 - he makes his on air singing debut. 10:00 he gives his thoughts on La Mesa Culture and how he wants to contribute. 24:30 Talks about the city council role in our schools. 28:15 Talks about solo hiking and the danger of mountain lions and snakes. 40:00 We hear about his first date (spoiler alert, disaster) his musical taste evolution, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar being his favorite Laker and more!
Jim and I do some impressions, crack each other up through a deep dive of Charles Barkley (Jim's Favorite player) versus Scottie Pippen @ 2:15, @21:15 - Stones V Beatles. @40:15 -debate boxers V Briefs, Brady Bunch V Partridge family, Jim's Affinity and knowledge of Miley Cyrus and favorite / least favorite Asian Stereotypes and more!
In a continuing series of La Mesa City Council Candidate podcasts, we get to know Kristine Alessio. The first 10 minutes are background and family stuff. 11:00 - Why she is running and what is important 22:00 a look at La Mesa finances. 33:45 - Hear about her first date and meet her 10 cats! 45:00 - I introduce her (and you) to a very unlikely delicious snack I stumbled upon.