The ALL NEW Big Wakeup Call with Ryan Gatenby: Recent Episodes
Ryan Gatenby
Ryan Gatenby chats with actors, authors, athletes, comedians, musicians, and experts in their field in each episode featuring selected interviews from The Big Wakeup Call radio program.
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Comedy Legend Tommy Davidson joins the show for appearance #4 and is only one visit away from a voluminous quantity of The Big Wakeup Call merchandise! Tommy is at the Chicago Improv on Sunday, April 12, for two shows benefitting Omega Phi Psi Fraternity.
Tickets here.
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Tom Papa called in for a fun chat about his new book Your Dad Stole My Rake...and Other Family Dilemmas. We discussed why he wanted to put down his thoughts into convenient book form, writing for a specific audience, dealing with "wacky" morning radio shows, and the eternal dilemma of juggling work and family. (From 6-7-18)
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Former major league infielder, Emmy-award winning MLB Network analyst, and proud “old school” baseball guy, Bill Ripken wants you to get off of his lawn. Kidding…maybe.
Today’s Major League Baseball lives and dies by its “new school” numbers. Over the last few decades, newly established statistics and on-field measurables have become so influential that they have infiltrated front offices, baseball operations departments, player development and scouting, and have significantly changed the game’s landscape. Major League Baseball measures everything now and relies less and less on baseball experience and the wisdom established over years of playing and coaching. The power dynamic has changed. Stats are now king.
This shift is the root of Major League Baseball’s growing culture war and the impetus behind Ripken’s new book “STATE OF PLAY: The Old School Guide to New School Baseball” (From 4-2-20)
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In HEAD BALL COACH, Steve Spurrier, college football legend, shares his story of a life in football: from winning the Heisman Trophy to playing and coaching in the pros to leading the Florida Gators to six SEC Championships and a National Championship to elevating the South Carolina program to new heights -- all by coaching like nobody else. He’s been called cocky, arrogant, brash, pompous, egotistical, and hilarious, but, mostly, he’s known as the Head Ball Coach, a self-ordained term introduced to the lexicon of football by none other than the man himself, Steve Spurrier. (From 9-1-16).
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In addition to being a "Dancing With The Stars Champion," Donald Driver played 14 seasons with the Green Bay Packers, went to four Pro Bowls, and caught 64 touchdowns (I think 62 of them against the Bears). Donald called in to discuss his book The 3D Body Revolution. I tried talking Donald out of retirement since the Bears could use a wideout, but I failed. Still, I had to ask. (From 9-20-17)
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Baseball legend Mookie Wilson called into talk about his memoir. MOOKIE is the inside story behind the man, the franchise, and a golden age of a sport; a story that can only be told by Mookie Wilson himself. In this stunningly honest memoir, Mookie provides insight into the minds of other players both on his team and elsewhere that season; his feeling about the decisions of the franchise regarding his career and the careers of Mets veterans over the past few decades; his time in Toronto and with the Mets as a coach and Ambassador; and the current state of Major League Baseball. (From 4-2-15)
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Nick Selby is a police detective with more than 20 years of experience fighting cyber criminals. He's also the author of "The Cyber Attack Survival Manual." We discussed the dark web, the biggest mistakes people make when it comes to protecting their identities, how hacking is not just a kid in a basement anymore, and why you maybe shouldn't have a smart adult toy. (From 10-24-17)
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Brett Tutor is the newest member of the crew on "Trading Spaces," which has returned to TLC with new episodes Saturday nights at 8/7c. Brett talked about hazing the newcomer, how his career as a singer, stuntman, survival specialist, and Air Force veteran led him to the show, and handling surprise requests from Ty Pennington. (From 4-13-18)
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Sports betting expert Chad Millman called in to reminisce wistfully about the '85 Bears and share his thoughts on when the Bears might actually be competitive again, plus talked about the latest Super Bowl odds, prop bets, and the prospects of national legal sports betting in the NFL and NBA. (From 1-25-18)
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Jake Borelli called into talk about the fall finale of Gray's Anatomy, which we tried to do tactfully without revealing any spoilers if it's still awaiting you on your DVR. We discussed Levi's character development, how he portrays the perfect combination of strength and vulnerability, and his decision to come out publicly around the same time as Levi and Nico finally acted on their feelings. (From 11-16-18)
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New York Times national security correspondent David Sanger called in to talk about his new book The Perfect Weapon: War Sabotage and Fear in the Cyber Age. We discussed how security struggles to keep up with technology, how the iPhone truly changed the world, and whether or not he had to write the book longhand or on a manual typewriter to protect the manuscript. (From 6-27-18)
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Emmy and Tony Award-winning actor Hal Linden gave us a call to talk about his critically-acclaimed film "The Samuel Project." We also discussed his concert tours and how it's never too late to chase a dream. (From 10-2-18)
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Ian Doescher, author of the "William Shakespeare's Star Wars" series, called in to talk about his new series of "Pop Shakespeare" books, beginning with "Get Thee...Back to the Future!" (From 4-23-19)
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Should-be Hall-of-Famer David Cone called in to chat about his new book "Full Count: The Education of a Pitcher." I learned so much about pitching talking to David, a self-confessed "pitching nerd." I also invited David for a game of Wiffle Ball in my backyard and he accepted. Looking forward to it the next time he's in Chicago and we can compare Wiffle Ball sinkers. (From 5-23-19)
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Jeff Benedict is the co-author, along with Armen Keteyian, of the new biography "Tiger Woods." Jeff discussed the lengthy process of researching and writing the book, how a biographer needs to remain both immersed in and detached from his subject, and Tiger's performance at the 2018 Masters. (From 4-5-18)
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Harry Lloyd called in to discuss his role in "Counterpart." We discussed the challenge of playing an espionage agent in two different worlds, working with the amazing J.K. Simmons, and why British actors can sound more American than actual Americans. (From 1-18-18)
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Emma Gray is the Executive Women's Editor at HuffPost and the author of "A Girl's Guide to Joining the Resistance," which is the best and most impactful book I've read all year. A very important work from an outstanding writer. (From 3-1-18)
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Tommy Davidson is one of our all-time favorite guests who is returning to the area to play the Chicago Improv this weekend December 12-14.
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From multiple New York Times best-selling author Jeff Pearlman comes the rollicking, outrageous, you-can’t-make-this-up story of the USFL—Football for a Buck: The Crazy Rise and Crazier Demise of the USFL. (From 9-18-18)
The United States Football League—known fondly to millions of sports fans as the USFL—was the last football league to challenge the NFL while causing its owners and executives to collectively shudder. It spanned three seasons, from 1983 to 1985, secured multiple television deals, drew millions of fans, and launched the careers of legends. But then it died beneath the weight of a particularly egotistical and bombastic owner—a New York businessman named Donald J. Trump. The league featured as many as eighteen teams, and included such superstars as Steve Young, Jim Kelly, Herschel Walker, Reggie White, Doug Flutie, and Mike Rozier.
In Football for a Buck, dogged reporter and biographer Jeff Pearlman draws on more than four hundred interviews to unearth all the salty, untold stories of one of the craziest sports entities ever to have captivated America. From excess drug usage in the ’80s to airplane brawls and player-coach punch outs, to backroom business deals, to some of the most enthralling and revolutionary football ever seen, Pearlman transports readers back in time to this crazy, boozy, audacious, and unforgettable era of the game. He shows how fortunes were made and lost on the backs of professional athletes and how, even thirty years ago, Trump was a scoundrel and a spoiler.
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Tom Brady. Serena Williams. Michael Phelps. Shalane Flanagan. LeBron James. Carli Lloyd. Roger Federer. Everywhere you look, athletes well past so-called peak age are not just staying competitive but dominating. It’s a new era for older athletes.
Through fascinating profiles and first-person experiences, journalist Jeff Bercovici illuminates the science and strategies behind the art of longevity in sports in “Play On: The New Science of Elite Performance at Any Age." (From 5-1-18)
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Nina Burleigh is the national politics correspondent at Newsweek and a best-selling author. She called in to talk about her new book Golden Handcuffs: The Secret History of Trump’s Women, which examines the relationships he has with all of the women in his life, including his mother, grandmother, wives, and daughters. (From 10-24-2018)
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Burleigh Drummond is the drummer and a founding member of Ambrosia. Burleigh was promoting the band's show at the Arcada Theatre in St. Charles.
(From 9-25-18)
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Cleo Abram & Christophe Huabursin are two of the hosts of a new YouTube series "Glad You Asked," where they will tackle unknown mysteries, anomalies, and unexplained phenomena big and small. (From 10-8-2019
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A fun chat with comedian and actor ARIES SPEARS, who is performing at The Improv in Schaumburg this weekend with 7 and 9:30 shows on Friday, 3:30, 7, and 9:30 on Saturday, and 6:00 on Sunday.
ARIES SPEARS
Biography
Ever since New York native Aries Spears was 14 years old, he has been a force to be reckoned with in the comedy scene throughout America. His quick wit, charisma and ferociously aggressive style of comedy have earned him critical acclaim, high accolades, and above all, a busy schedule. From being a regular on Fox’s Mad TV, starring in feature films, appearing on a number of national talk shows, and continually touring the country where he continually sells out each and every city, Aries’ talents are widespread as he just passed the 3 million spins played on Pandora and his podcast is one of the "Musts" in the US.
This past summer, Aries guest starred in CNN’s “See It Loud” new summer series on the history of Black Television which was one of their hit docuseries of 2023, alongside Amanda Seales, Da’Vinchi, Debbie Allen, Deon Cole, Desus & Mero, Gabrielle Union, Jimmie Walker, Judge Greg Mathis, Kevin Frazier, Loni Love, Lynn Whitfield, Mo’Nique, Naturi Naughton, Omari Hardwick, Ray J, Ruben Studdard, Sherri Shepherd, Tatyana Ali, Tiffany Pollard,Tisha Campbell, Vivica A. Fox and many more. Trailer: https://tinyurl.com/AriesCNNSeeItLoud
As a principal cast member on Fox’s hit sketch comedy show Mad TV, Aries brought a fresh, hip style to the already-edgy program from the third through the tenth season. The producers made full use of many of Aries’s talents by calling on him frequently to create new hilarious characters and write sketches where he thrived for eight seasons.
Some of the many recurring characters that Aries is famous for on the show include: Belma Buttons, Bill Cosby, Jesse Jackson, Mike Tyson, Walter (Crackheads), Reggie (Erascist), Dollar Bill Montgomery, Shaquille O'Neal, The Klumps, Michael Jackson, Sisqo, Evander Holyfield, El Diablo Negro and more. Aries also boasts a number of uproarious impersonations on the show that include James Brown, Al Pacino, and his childhood idol Eddie Murphy. The Aries-branded sketch “Talkin’ American” was Mad TV’s most popular bit, keeping fans tuned in and boosting Mad’s ratings impressively on Saturday night.
Aries has also found great success in the world of feature films. At the age of 17, after being spotted in a comedy club, Aries landed a part in the movie Home of Angels which eventually led to a starring role alongside John Leguizamo in TriStar’s The Pest followed by the notable role as Cuba Gooding, Jr.’s brother in Columbia’s blockbuster hit, Jerry Maguire.
Aries maintains a strong connection to his African roots and is involved in many charitable events, including a number of organizations that help abused women. He feels blessed to have been able to achieve everything that he has, but he in no way intends on stopping there. Given the extreme growing success rate of action comedies coming out of Hollywood, it’s safe to say that Aries Spears will be in demand for quite some time.
https://www.ariesspears.com
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Sandra Magsamen returns to the show for a chat about her new book Silly Witch along with her career writing for children.
SANDRA MAGSAMEN is the author and illustrator of many books for young children, including the picture book When I Grow Up I Want to Be Me, as well as a number of bestselling novelty titles, including Everybody Goes Nighty-Night, named a Best Board Book of 2018 by The Children's Book Review; Baby Love; I Love You, Little Pumpkin; and Peek-a-Boo, I Love You. As an artist, an art therapist, and a mom, she uses her creativity to remind people to express themselves and connect with others. Her lifestyle brands, products, and books are sold worldwide. Visit her at sandramagsamen.com.
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Nation gifting expert Lindsay Roberts, founder of TheGiftInsider.com, discusses entertainment options and deals for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Learn why entertainment tops the list of smart gifts that bring family and friends together this holiday season, from streaming services and sports packages to mobile upgrades.
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MILLIE FLEUR SAVES THE NIGHT is Christy Mandin’s entertaining sequel to her New York Times bestseller Millie Fleur's Poison Garden that encourages readers to find beauty in the darkness. Millie Fleur is a character that embraces age-appropriate dark comedy for kids. This charmingly macabre story is perfect for Halloween reading but also can be enjoyed all year-round.
Christy Mandin is the author and illustrator of multiple picture books. She’s grown many interesting plants in her garden over the years but, so far, none with teeth or tentacles. She currently lives in Georgia with her husband and four children. Visit Christy online at christymandin.com or Instagram @christymandin
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You may know Olivie Blake is the New York Times bestselling author of speculative fiction for adults, including The Atlas Six trilogy, Alone with You in the Ether, Masters of Death, the short story collection Januaries. Her new book is Girl Dinner, a darkly fun novel about power, lust, and eating your fill, as wealthy moms and sorority girls practice a sinister new wellness trend.
OLIVIE BLAKE is the New York Times bestselling author of sci-fi and fantasy for adults, including The Atlas Six trilogy, Alone with You in the Ether, Masters of Death, the short story collection Januaries, and her most recent novel, Girl Dinner. With Little Chmura, she is the co-creator of the graphic series Clara and the Devil. As Alexene Farol Follmuth, she is also the author of the young adult novels My Mechanical Romance and Twelfth Knight. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband and son.
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HGTV star Matt Blashaw joins us for the 5th time (5-Timers Club!) with practical tips from smarter home design to how propane can keep the heat and lights on when the grid goes down.
Licensed contractor Matt Blashaw is everything you want in a versatile handyman and then some. His home improvement company once used the slogan “One Call Fixes It All” and Matt made a point of always delivering on that promise. So how does a guy this young get to be this good? Easy — he grew up in a lumberyard! A native of Orange County, California, Matt spent his teen years working at his father’s lumberyard before graduating from Chapman University. He then moved on to a variety of jobs in the construction and entertainment industries. A stint with the technical services group at Disney taught him about show effects and electrical installation. Today, when he’s not sharing his expertise with DIY Network viewers, Matt works as a Realtor and develops and builds homes in Orange County. Matt takes a fearless approach to home remodeling and says he’s never afraid to make mistakes. After all, that’s often when he learns the most. If you’re thinking about taking on a do-it-yourself project, take his advice and just go for it. Matt hosts HGTV’s Professional Grade in addition to DIY Network’s Money Hunters, Deconstruction and Project Xtreme.
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Digital safety expert Kristin Lewis shares some great advice on staying safe online during Cybersecurity Awareness Month.
Kristin Lewis is Chief Product Officer at Aura, where she oversees the company’s suite of products that keep families safe online—from parental controls and child digital wellness tools to identity protection, data removal from brokers, and online security features. She leads the development of technology that empowers consumers to take control of their digital privacy and protect themselves from fraud and data misuse.
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Brian “Uncle John” Boone returns to the show for a fun chat about the 38th Edition of "Uncle John's Know-It-All Bathroom Reader."
There are almost as many adventures both personal and professional in the life of Brian “Uncle John” Boone as there are fun facts in the average Bathroom Reader volume, the series to which he has been a contributor for more than two decades. Brian picked up a lot of fascinating knowledge and stories about the world around him from an early age, with a childhood spent reading voraciously, traveling, and watching lots of TV. He continued to absorb and retain interesting information when he learned how to share it in amusing ways as he studied journalism and went on to publish books of jokes, music, sports, and literature, as well as hilarious stuff for the likes of Funny or Die, Vulture, Mad, The New Yorker, The Onion, and Some ecards. He even wrote a couple of stage musicals and a wacky sci-fi novel, developed major podcasts and radio shows, and showed off his Uncle John cred as a contestant on Jeopardy! He’s authored thousands of articles in the Uncle John’s Bathroom Reader series and edited offshoot titles including Fake Facts, Germophobia, Robotica, and Beer-Vana.
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Travel expert and chief meteorologist Jennifer Broome discusses fun getaway ideas for National Thrive Outside Day.
Jennifer Broome is a multimedia travel and environmental journalist documenting her journey in the Swept Away With JenniferBroome YouTube channel focusing on adventure travel, solo travel, national parks, road trips, weather, climate, and sustainable tourism. She is also a television meteorologist and on-camera travel and outdoors expert, host, and reporter with over 30 years of live television experience. She was one of the first female chief meteorologists in the United States and has visited all 50 U.S. states and 253 National Park Service units including 48 national parks.
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Author J.L. Spears talks about AI and its chilling possibilities in his new thriller "Daemon Protocol."
J.L. (Joseph) Spears is a software engineer and author with over 25 years of experience in the technology industry. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Indiana University and a Master of Science in Computer Science from the University of San Francisco. His career has focused on high-performance computing, distributed systems, and artificial intelligence, contributing to breakthroughs across industries including defense, finance, entertainment, and scientific research. Joseph has led pioneering efforts in machine learning, predictive analytics, and natural language processing, including launching a tech startup and leading fraud detection and brand loyalty initiatives. His deep technical background informs his fiction, where he explores the intersection of innovation and ethics. Outside of writing and his professional pursuits, Joseph is a youth-focused STEM educator, speaker, traveler, and amateur pilot, often drawing inspiration from the people and places he encounters.
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Claribel A. Ortega, New York Times bestselling author of Ghost Squad and the Witchlings series, and Pura Belpre and Eisner Award-winning author of the graphic novel Frizzy, is a former reporter who writes middle grade and young adult fantasy inspired by her Dominican heritage. When she's not busy turning her obsession with pop culture, magic, and video games into books, she's co-hosting her podcast Bad Author Book Club and coaching authors on how to navigate publishing. Claribel has been featured on BuzzFeed, NPR, Good Morning America, and Deadline. You can find her on social media at @Claribel_Ortega and on her website at claribelortega.com.
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Naeem Bari is Co-Founder & President of Linxup. Linxup provides easy-to-use tracking and dash cam solutions for vehicles, tools, and workers. Trusted by 20,000+ businesses since 2004, Linxup delivers reliability, flexibility, and live US-based support across industries like field service, construction, and logistics. Prior to Linxup, Naeem founded two technology startups and steered them from early stages through profitable maturity and eventual exits. He has served on several boards and participated in M&A activity at executive management and board levels.
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Ryan La Sala is a bestselling and award-winning author known for his genre-defying, queer-centered horror and fantasy, including The Honeys and Beholder. His work has been featured in The New York Times, NPR, Entertainment Weekly, and more. He writes to you from New York, overseen by his cat, Haunted Little Girl. He can hold his breath for one minute and three seconds. You can ping him on his shell phone at ryanlasala.com. Ryan discussed his new book The Dead of Summer.
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Former Newsweek legal affairs editor and best-selling author David A. Kaplan called in to discuss his new book "The Most Dangerous Branch: Inside the Supreme Court's Assault on the Constitution." It's too bad the Supreme Court wasn't top of mind for most of us as we talked about his book.
(From 9-5-18)
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Stand-up comedian Dan Crohn called in to talk about his appearance on a new compilation comedy album, "Valentine's Day is for Suckers." Dan also has a solo comedy album called "It's Enough Already." We discussed whether or not a comedy show is good for a first date, dealing with second show Friday, the Boston and Chicago comedy scenes, and how teaching 4th graders has provided him with almost endless material.
(From 2-6-20)
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Caity Weaver from the New York Times called in for a lively chat about her article taking a look behind the scenes (and on the actual boat) at Bravo's "Below Deck Mediterranean."
(From 7-2-20)
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Widely recognized as a two-time All-Pro NFL veteran, Ovie played nine seasons with the Baltimore Ravens and Atlanta Falcons. He called in to share fantasy football tips for the new season.
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Emily Schultz is the co-founder of the influential "Joyland" magazine and author of "The Blondes", an international bestseller named a Best Book of 2015. She dialed us up for a lively chat about her newest book, "Little Threats."
(From 11-11-20)
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Annie Duke is a best-selling author, former professional poker player, and an sought-after consultant in the decision-making space. Her new book is “How To Decide: Simple Tools for Making Better Choices.”
(From 10-22-20)
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Elisha Cuthbert joined the show way back when (how is this interview 10 years old already?) to talk about the season finale of "One Big Happy."
(From 4-28-15)
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Juliette Faye is the bestselling author of 8 novels, including City of Flickering Light and the USA TODAY bestseller The Tumbling Turner Sisters. We discussed her new book, The Harvey Girls, including how the book has a Chicago connection.
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Dylan Thuras, cofounder and creative director of Atlas Obscura, and Jennifer Swanson, an award-winning children’s author of more than forty-five nonfiction and fiction books, called in for an entertaining chat about their new book The Atlas Obscura Explorer’s Guide to Inventing the World.
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As we find ourselves in the middle of another serious heatwave, with temperatures in the mid-90s and high humidity, I'm joined by Dr. Andie Lee Gonzalez, a registered dietitian with nearly 15 years of nutrition and public health experience. Dr. Gonzalez shared important summer hydration tips and resources.
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It's almost back-to-school time! Tucker Perkins, president and chief executive officer for the Propane Education & Research Council, returned to the show to chat about how students can have a safer, healthier ride to school that also benefits teachers, parents, and the community.
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Candace Bushnell joined the show for a chat about her new book "Is There Still Sex in the City?" (From 8-30-19)
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Gavin Edwards is the author of “Kindness and Wonder: Why Mister Rogers Matters Now More Than Ever.” We discussed what Mr. Rogers meant to us growing up and why its timeless messages can (and should) reach a new generation of kids...and adults.
(From 10-31-19)
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Mark Bego is a best-selling author who has written books about Aretha Franklin, Michael Jackson, and the Supremes. Mark called into the show to discuss his book "Rocket Man: The Life of Elton John."
(From 1-28-20)
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Katherine McNamara is an award-winning actress you know from her role as Mia on “Arrow.” The complete eighth and final season is out now on Digital, DVD and Blu-Ray. (From 4-22-20)
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Steve Barry joins us for a third time as we discuss his latest book "The List."
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Brad Meltzer, one of our all-time favorite guests, is enshrined in our 5-Timers Club as we chat about his new book "We Are The Beatles," the newest in his "Ordinary People Change The World" series. A fun read for kids as well as adults. As a ridiculously huge Beatles fan, I absolutely love it. A fantastic introduction for kids to the fab four.
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Andy Mulvihill called in for a fun chat about his book "ACTION PARK: Fast Times, Wild Rides, and the Untold Story of America’s Most Dangerous Amusement Park." Andy's dad was the founder and creator of the park and Andy was the original test subject for all of the rides. (From 6-30-20)
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Brian Trenchard-Smith is a film and television director, producer and writer who Quentin Tarantino has called “his favorite obscure director.” He’s the author of “Adventures in the B Movie Trade,” now available on Amazon and Kindle.
(From 10-22-20)
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Camilla Pang holds a PhD in bioinformatics from University College London and is a postdoctoral scientist. Her career and studies have been heavily influenced by her diagnoses of Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and ADHD and she is driven by her passion for understanding humans and how we work. She joined us to discuss her book "An Outsider's Guide to Humans." (From 12-11-20)
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The Daily Show with Trevor Noah correspondent Michael Kosta called in to talk about his first one-hour stand-up special on Comedy Central, “Michael Kosta: Detroit. NY. LA.,” which was filmed in each of those three cities in a hilarious and nostalgic reminder of pre-pandemic life. (From 12-9-20)
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"American Idol" winner Abi Carter called in to talk about her appearance on PBS's "A Capitol Fourth," her new album, and her upcoming appearance in Chicago at the Beat Kitchen on October 23rd.
ABI CARTER
BIO
After charming judges, audiences, and voters during her journey on Season 22 of American Idol, singer-songwriter Abi Carter went from hopeful auditioner to season winner in a matter of weeks. With the release of her 2024 album, ghosts in the backyard, the Coachella Valley native officially introduced herself as a confident, layered artist in her own right.
The nostalgia-ridden 10-track LP is a narrative, story-driven collection of music that allows listeners to get to know the person behind the powerful voice that won over millions during her Idol journey. Abi wrote on every song on the project, processing her own youth from a distance in the hopes that others might feel encouraged in their own journeys.
“When I wrote this album, it was therapy for myself,” Abi said. “I was trying to work through what I was feeling and thinking, and it was cathartic for me. If other people can feel that and relate to my emotions, that would be ‘mission accomplished’ — even if it just reaches one person.”
The second-oldest in a family of seven kids, Abi was raised in a musical household. Growing up, she sang just about anywhere she could, but it was learning piano that changed the trajectory of her life. Her skill on the instrument is near virtuosic and remains infused into every aspect of her music-making process, including the genre-blending elements of ghosts in the backyard.
Abi refuses to let herself be boxed in. She embraces influences like Phoebe Bridgers, Manchester Orchestra, Gracie Abrams, and Renee Rapp, playing with indie-pop, folk, and cinematic drama throughout her discography. Regardless of genre elements, it’s the raw earnestness to Abi’s voice that consistently sets her apart — it’s something that can only be informed by performing from the very bottom of one’s soul. Abi is the rare artist that exists in the crossover of being born with natural talent and having the technical skill set to back it up.
“I believe in the things I sing,” she confirms. “I try not to sing just because it sounds pretty; the best singers connect with what they’re saying. That’s what moves people.”
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Gordon Korman is a household name in the middle grade space. With over 100 titles to his name, he’s written a book for every kind of reader in this age group—from reluctant to voracious and all the shades in between. We discussed his brand-new adventure: SNOOP is the story of a screen-obsessed boy who finds himself trapped at home—and discovers that life gets harder when screens are all you have.
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One of my all-time favorite ballplayers, Dave "Cobra" Parker passed away June 28th at age 74. Dave's numbers speak for themselves and he should be in the Hall of Fame. We revisit our conversation from April 12, 2021.
Original episode description: Dave Parker won two batting titles, an MVP award, three silver sluggers, and played in 7 all-star games. Of his 339 career homers, I bet at least 100 of those were hit against the Cubs. Dave called in to talk about his memoir, “Cobra: A Life of Baseball and Brotherhood.”
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New York Times culture reporter, best-selling author, and Twitter superstar Dave Itzkoff dialed into the show to talk about his new book Robin: The Definitive Biography and Untold Story of Robin Williams. We discussed why fans felt such a connection to Robin, how he dealt with a rocket-like ascent to fame from comedy clubs to Mork and Mindy, his struggles with substance abuse, and how the public side of Robin Williams differed from the private side. (From 5-30-18)
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Justin “MR. FASCINATE” Shaifer is nationally renowned as one of the top advocates for science education in the nation. He is a LinkedIn Top Voice in Technology, Science Communicator, popular TV host and producer who has starred in shows for ABC News, Hulu, PBS, and Travel Channel.
On June 13th, Shaifer hosted the world’s largest K-12 science competition awards – the annual Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision Challenge. This event honors national student winners who have produced amazing inventions to help overcome some of the world’s greatest challenges. Justin joined the show to discuss the competition and introduce the student winners.
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Chicago Fire star Joe Minoso joined the show to talk about tonight's crossover episodes of Chicago Fire and Chicago PD, beginning tonight at 8 CT on NBC-5 Chicago. Joe and I also discussed the stupidest Chicago winter ever and his roots in the area. (From 2-25-19)
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Debi Mazar called it to talk about her new series, “Arde Madrid: Burn Madrid Burn,” which is streaming on the Megahertz choice service. Debi plays Ava Gardner in 1960. We also discussed meeting Frank Sinatra with Madonna, her battle with COVID-19, and the future of her series "Younger." (From 5-4-20)
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Jonathan McHugh is the director of a new documentary, “Long Live Rock: Celebrate the Chaos,” now available on demand. (From 3-12-21)
Jonathan McHugh has been producing, directing and music supervising films and TV for decades. He has produced over 35 films and TV shows, music supervised over 75 films and produced many gold, platinum, Emmy and Oscar-nominated film and TV show soundtracks. McHugh has produced quality content while working at great companies like New Line Cinema/ Warner Brothers films, as well as Universal Records and Sony Records. As a director, McHugh's first subculture documentaryLong Live Rock.Celebrate the Chaos will be released in 2021 by Abramorama Entertainment. McHugh is currently producing "City of Ali," a documentary about Muhammad Ali and the relationship to his hometown. He has produced hit films like Paramount's "Justin Bieber: Never Say Never," "Crossroads" starring Britney Spears, as well as the highly-regarded documentary, "Janis: Little Girl Blue." As a TV producer McHugh has produced many shows including Viacom's "Sun Records" and Discovery's "Battleground Earth."
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Chef Marcus Samuelsson called in to give me some tips on putting a new spin on the 5 dishes I can semi-successfully make, including getting out my olive oil rut and exploring avocado oil. Plus: Marcus talks about his new restaurant and gives a shout out to Chicago. (From 2-20-20)
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Best-selling author Joanna Ho makes her 5th appearance on the show and earns the coveted prize as we talk about her fun new book "Becoming Boba."
Joanna Ho is the award-winning and New York Times bestselling author of many children’s books, including We Who Produce Pearls, Eyes That Kiss in the Corners, and The Silence That Binds Us, her debut young adult novel, which received the Young Adult Honor for the Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature. She earned her masters in educational leadership at Berkeley, and her passion for equity in books and education is matched only by her love of homemade chocolate chip cookies, outdoor adventures, and dance parties with her kids. Visit her at Joannahowrites.com.
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The Award-Winning Story of Illegal Drugs and Famous Baseball Stars On DVD and Digital Platforms on June 4, 2019
"Another masterpiece of wild and woolly Floridiana from Florida's documentarian laureate." - Vincent Mancini, FILMDRUNK
Some of the biggest U.S. sports stars come under harsh scrutiny in the eye-opening - and queasily funny - SCREWBALL , which reveals the real story behind baseball's notorious drug scandal. The film, by award-winning documentarian Billy Corben, will be released on Greenwich Entertainment DVD and digital platforms on June 4, 2019.
Recounting the high-profile doping scandal that rocked Major League Baseball, director Billy Corben (Cocaine Cowboys, Magic City Hustle) takes us into the surreal Miami underworld that provided performance-enhancing drugs to Alex Rodriguez, Manny Ramirez and other star players.
They say South Florida is a sunny place for shady people and this is certainly true of steroid peddler Anthony Bosch and his most notorious client, Alex Rodriguez of the New York Yankees. While Bosch's medical credentials may be lacking, his storytelling skills are first-rate as he hilariously details the rise and fall of his "health clinic," including mob connections, financial chicanery, his cocaine habit and Rodriguez's eccentric behavior.
The documentary plays like a madcap Floridian crime comedy in the vein of Elmore Leonard, Carl Hiaasen and the Coen Brothers while it raises serious questions about the ethics of professional sports. Powerful interests would be happy to let this story slip from memory, but SCREWBALL makes it unforgettable.
(From 6-4-19)
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Paul Rees is an award-winning writer who has been covering rock and roll for three decades. His new book is “The Ox: The Authorized Biography of The Who’s John Entwistle.” (From 4-29-20)
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(From 5-17-20) It was nice to welcome Clive Standen back to the show for a chat about his new show "Council of Dads." Will there be new additions to the circle? Will Tom Everett Scott return to the show as a ghost? Listen for the spoiler-free details!
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May is National Water Safety Month, which makes it the perfect time for parents and caregivers to contact their local Y and sign their children up for a Safety Around Water program or swim lesson. The YMCA’s Safety Around Water program provides children of all ages and backgrounds with the tools they need to be confident in and around water.
Water safety expert Lindsay Mondick of the YMCA joined the show to discuss the importance of eliminating distractions and how even quick glances at a phone can result in tragedy.
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Ben Cohen joined us to discuss his new book "The Hot Hand: The Mystery and Science of Streaks." We talked about the lack of Michael Jordan on NBA Jam for Sega Genesis, the difference between "hot hand" and "dumb luck," how to write songs like John Lennon, and a special "hot hand" Spotify playlist. (From 3-12-20)
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Will Vought has joined the cast of the multiple Emmy Award-winning "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel." We discussed his character (an Army Major who wants to be Bob Hope), the accuracy and detail of their 50s setting and re-creation of the era's comedy scene, and his on-screen relationship with Midge. (From 12-9-19)
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Mark L. Walberg is the long-time host of "Antiques Roadshow" on PBS, and is also hosting "Temptation Island," which is headed toward the two-part season 2 finale this Thursday (12/12/19) on USA Network. We discussed some of the events of this season, how his role as host also incorporates being a counselor, and a spoiler-free hint and teaser what we can expect on the finale. (From 12-11-19)
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Kate Black is the co-author, along with June Diane Raphael, of the book "Represent: The Woman's Guide to Running for Office & Changing the World." We had a lively discussion about her inspiration for the book, her collaboration with June Diane Raphael, how to (and how not to) begin your campaign, and getting a testimonial from Hillary Clinton. (From 9-17-19)
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Pete Correale called in to the show for a chat about his new stand-up album "For Pete's Sake." We talked about the adventures of being a marathon spectator, listening to classic comedy albums, and juggling a show from city to city.
(From 10-21-19)
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It was an honor to have Pulitzer Prize-winning author Doris Kearns Goodwin on the show to discuss her book "Leadership in Turbulent Times," which is now out in paperback. I think I managed to not sound like a dullard in the interview, which was all I could hope for. (From 10-4-19)
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Cybercrime is evolving as consumers and businesses – from healthcare to finance to manufacturing --- are facing increasingly sophisticated threats. Now, Verizon’s 18th Annual Data Breach Investigation Reporthas analyzed 22,000+ security incidents and their impact across 139 countries, providing insights about the critical need to take proactive measures to protect data from bad actors.
Cybersecurity expert Alla Reznik of Verizon returned to the show to discuss the important new report and how businesses can stay ahead of cyber threats by enhancing security practices and effectively responding to breaches.
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The Great Barrier Reef is a jewel of Australia and a designated UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. The Reef is alive and thriving and now people around the world are signing their support to recognize this treasure as part of the United Nations Environment Programme’s Champions of the Earth Awards, with a Lifetime Achievement Award, as the world’s first non-human recipient.
Natalie Smith, with GBR Biology, and Mark Olsen, Great Barrier Reef Advocate and CEO of Tourism Tropical North Queensland, discussed the importance of getting involved in this worldwide grassroots campaign and advocacy movement to provide support to preserve one of the seven wonders of the natural world.
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Chrissy Metz returned to The Big Wakeup Call to talk about her new movie, "Breakthrough." We discussed the challenges of playing a character based on an actual person, how she prepared to play a mom, and how she's working on recording some tunes. (From 4-18-19)
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After a lengthy absence, Ed Begley Jr. called in to the show for a chat about Earth Day and what we can do to help take care of our planet as we take care of ourselves. (From 4-20-20)
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Garrett Morris called in to talk about his new movie "Granddaddy Day Care" and share stories about working in Chicago, his time on SNL and owning a comedy club. (From 1-31-19)
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Legendary sportscaster Verne Lundquist called in for a chat about his new memoir PLAY BY PLAY: Calling the Wildest Games in Sports - From SEC Football to College Basketball, The Masters, and More. Topics: reminiscing about the Bears-Eagles "Fog Bowl" in 1988, being present for so many historical sports moments, and making a memorable call for the ages. (From 10-16-18)
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Andrew Zimmern visited the show for a third time, and on this visit we discussed his new MSNBC series "What's Eating America," a travel show that connects the links between food and politics. (From 2-13-20)
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Parkinson’s disease affects nearly one million people in the U.S., with more than 90,000 newly diagnosed each year. John L. Lehr, President, CEO of the non-Profit Parkinson’s Foundation, and Dr. Kathleen Blake, a person living with Parkinson’s disease, let people know some of the early signs of PD, such as tremors, small handwriting, loss of smell, trouble sleeping or walking, a soft or low voice, stooping or hunching over, as well as non-motor symptoms like depression and anxiety.
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Vanessa Bayer, who was currently in her 5th season on Saturday Night Live, talks about the "Trainwreck Comedy Tour" coming to the Harris Theater in Chicago, an all-star evening featuring Vanessa, Amy Schumer, Colin Quinn, Judd Apatow, Mike Birbiglia and Dave Attell. (From 6-10-15)
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Monica Mohindra is the Director of the Veterans History Project (VHP) of the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress. In over 15 years with the Project, she has coordinated major initiatives with Members of Congress, the National Museum of the American Indian, the National Endowment for the Humanities, PBS, Ken Burns/ Florentine Films, the HISTORY Channel, and many more. Before joining the Library, she worked in various communications with a variety of theater companies including The Smithsonian’s Discovery Theater, Arena Stage’s Living Stage Theatre Company and The Washington Revels. She is the spouse of a US Navy Veteran.
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The legendary Henry Rollins joined the show to talk about his role in a new four-part docuseries "Punk." We also discussed how music and fashion were attached to the English punk rock scene, why he embraced the punk rock community as a teenager, and the reason he turns down most punk rock documentaries (and why he chose to appear in this one). [From 3-7-19)
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Songwriting icon Diane Warren discusses her legendary career.
(From 2016)
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William DeWitt is the Director of Global Security at Verkada, where he is building a best-in-class corporate security program. Prior to Verkada, Will spent nearly 12 years at Palantir, where he served as Global Safety and Security Lead, building the company’s corporate global security and government security programs. Under his leadership, Palantir’s government security program obtained accreditation at the highest level, allowing it to process U.S. government data and pursue government contracts. The Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency awarded the program he built the Cogswell Award. Previously, Will served in the US Marine Corps for eight years.
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Author Jacqueline Friedland’s books have been called ferociously insightful, wholly engrossing and unputdownable! Her newest is Counting Backward, which is being called "An Erin Brockovich for our times."
Next month, she delivers her most thought-provoking book yet with: COUNTING BACKWARD. This “ripped-from-the-headlines story is an Erin Brockovich for our times.”
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I had a fun chat with author Tanisia Moore about her new book for children (and parents, too) "Wash Day Love."
Tanisia Moore views writing as her avenue for giving hope, sharing life's lessons, and sparking imaginations. Her companion picture books I Am My Ancestors' Wildest Dreams and When Black Girls Dream Big empower young readers to dream and live big, and remind them of their strength and potential. She lives in Birmingham, Alabama, with her husband and three young children. Learn more at tanisiamoore.com
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Tom Carroll is the writer director of “The Stress is Killing Me,” which is now available to rent/own on all North American digital HD internet, cable, and satellite platforms. He is also the director or “Big Bad Budget,” which aired on PBS stations nationwide, and the writer director of “Who Stole the Tasmanian Devils?” Tom is also the author of several novels, including “The Dogs Who Play Baseball,” “Young and Dumb”, and “Lawrence and the Ant Colony,” and the play “Churchill’s Finest Hour.”
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Annasophia Robb of The CW's Carrie Diaries discusses her new film DOWN A DARK HALL. (From 8-17-18)
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MLB Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt called into talk about his serious battle with skin cancer (Stage 3 Melanoma) and a new initiative from CancerCare, "Your Cancer Game Plan." It was also a thrill to talk to Mike about baseball memories of him always destroying my Cubs and his thoughts on whether the Cubs can repeat.
(From 9-20-17)
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Lauded by David Baldacci, Karin Slaughter, and Stephen King, among others "The Oligarch's Daughter" by Joseph Finder is already on the bestseller list. The hero, Paul Brightman, is a regular finance guy who by accident falls in love with an Oligarch’s daughter. The U.S. intelligence community traps him into spying on his father-in-law and his activities.
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Celebrated New York Times bestselling author Steve Berry returns to the show to discuss the latest installment in his wildly popular Cotton Malone series—now in development as a streaming series. The Medici Return takes Cotton to Italy to solve a five hundred year-old mystery.
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Jim Jefferies is coming to the Vic Theater in Chicago for two stand-up shows being taped for a new special. We discuss the state of the world, the state of comedy, and the state of our minds.
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Renowned rock and roll photographer Mick Rock, who has taken iconic photographs of David Bowie, Queen, Sex Pistols, Iggy Pop, Ramones, and especially Lou Reed, called in to discuss a limited-edition book of pictures and stories, Transformer, out now to commemorate the 45th anniversary of the LP that, with the magic help of David Bowie and Mick Ronson, launched Lou Reed into the hero status we know today. We only had 10 minutes for the interview, but I could listen to Mick tell Reed and Bowie stories all day. Mick sadly passed away in 2021 at age 72.
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Marg Helgenberger called in to talk about her movie, "Almost Friends" as well as her play "What We're Up Against." Plus: Chicago geography and filming in Alabama in the summer -- on purpose. (From 11-14-17)
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Lindsay Arnold discusses partnering with Cubs legend Davis Ross on " Dancing With the Stars." (From 4-13-17).
Lindsay Arnold is an all-American girl who was born and raised on the stage in Provo, Utah. She began dancing at the age of four and has not stopped dancing since. She trained extensively in Utah with some of the country's best teachers, including Shirley Ballas and Mark Ballas, a Dancing with the Stars veteran dancer.
Lindsay is incredibly versatile, but her area of expertise is Latin dance. Previously a finalist on So You Think You Can Dance, perform in the 30-city tour, in theaters all across the nation. She later joined Dancing with the Stars, where she was first partnered with boxer Victor Ortiz.
Her numerous awards include placing 1st place in both the United States Open Youth Latin Championships and the United States Open Junior Latin Championships, being a top 3 finalist at the World Junior Latin Team Match, a top 5 finalist at the World Cup Latin Junior Championships and a top 5 finalist at the United States Junior National 10 dance Championships.
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James Feinstein discusses his book "THE FIRST MAJOR: The Inside Story of the 2016 Ryders Cup Tournament." (From 11-3-17)
John Feinstein is one of America’s favorite sportswriters, and his new book invites readers to join him on the trail of the storied Ryders Cup – an intense tournament that pits America’s best golfers against their European counterparts in one of the most emotional matches of the year.
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The Amazing Kreskin made 88 appearances on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, and has also been on with David Letterman, Jimmy Fallon and more. He continues to be the world's leading mentalist. His off-broadway show debuts on April 12th at Theatre Row-Lion Theatre in New York City. We discussed how he first landed an appearance on the Tonight Show, his relationship with Johnny and Dave, and his experiences in Chicago. Kreskin also graciously agreed not to read my thoughts (or least not to announce them on the radio).
(From March 29, 2018)
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Actor James Faulkner discusses his role as Paul in the film "Paul, Apostle of Christ." (From March 2018.)
Born in Hampstead, London, James Faulkner has enjoyed a prolific and varied career spanning more than 40 years. In 2017, he was widely acknowledged for his portrayal of Randyll Tarly in HBO’s Game of Thrones as well as playing the head of MI6 in ATOMIC BLONDE alongside Charlize Theron. His numerous British and U.S. television roles include such series as Downton Abbey, Da Vinci’s Demons, I Claudius, The Martian Chronicles, Crazy Like a Fox, Highlander and La Femme Nikita. Film credits include X-MEN: FIRST CLASS, THE GOOD SHEPHERD starring Robert de Niro, BRIDGET JONES’ DIARY among many others. James’ theatre roles include multiple West End productions, and he has narrated over 40 documentaries, read 15 audio books and voiced a number of video games.
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We open the vault and go all the way back to 2014 for my chat with LeeAnn Rimes, who was promoting her Christmas tour and her album “ONE Christmas - Chapter 1."
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Ian Port talks about his book THE BIRTH OF LOUD: LEO FENDER, LES PAUL & THE GUITAR-PIONEERING RIVALRY THAT SHAPED ROCK 'N ROLL. (From 1-17-19)
Ian Port is an award-winning writer and music critic whose work has appeared in Rolling Stone, The Village Voice, and The Believer, among other publications. He is also the former music editor of the San Francisco Weekly. He lives in New York. For more information, visit: www.iansmithport.com.
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Andrew Chimka, industry hiring expert and LinkedIn's Director of Product Management, shares his top hiring tips for small business success, including the state of hiring today for small businesses, the top challenges small businesses face, and how LinkedIn is helping small businesses find qualified candidates with its new AI assistant.
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Legendary comedian and actor Tommy Davidson returns to the show for a fun interview and to promote his upcoming appearance at the Chicago Improv in Schaumburg Dec 20-22.
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With an uptick in flu, Covid, and RSV, virus hunter Mary Rodgers shares tips on navigating the winter months.
Mary Rodgers, Ph.D. is an Associate Research Fellow in Abbott’s diagnostics business.
In her role, Mary manages research from the Abbott Pandemic Defense Coalition, the first industry-led global scientific and public health partnership dedicated to the early detection of and rapid response to future pandemic threats. As part of the coalition, over 20 sites around the world monitor circulating and emerging pathogens to help quickly detect outbreaks, and then work together with health officials to minimize the spread.
Mary also tracks the diversity of infectious diseases including HIV, hepatitis and SARS-CoV-2 to track new variant’s impact on diagnostic testing. In 2019, Mary and a team of Abbott scientists announced the discovery of a new subtype of HIV and made the sequence available to the global research community. This research marked the first time in 19 years that a new subtype of HIV-1 Group M had been identified.
Mary joined Abbott in 2014 and has authored or coauthored more than 40 research papers and contributed thousands of viral genomes to public databases. Mary was named one of Business Insider’s 30 under 40 Young Leaders in Biotech in 2017 and is an inducted member of Abbott’s Volwiler Society, which recognizes its most distinguished scientists and engineers.
Mary received her Ph.D. in biological and biomedical sciences from Harvard University. She completed her postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Southern California.
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Award-winning author Sandra Magsamen discusses her career writing books for children and her newest board book, "Silly Santa."
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It's always a good time to talk Wisconsin cheese, and returning guest Julie Hartigan has some great recipes and entertaining ideas using the world's most awarded cheese!
Julie Hartigan is a trained chef, recipe creator, hosting expert, and culinary travel guide who helps people enjoy the good life with cooking, entertaining, and travel tips! A former engineer whose career changed into the culinary world, attending the Institute of Culinary Education in NYC and later working at Food Network and Saveur magazine; Julie is a regular on your favorite morning and lifestyle shows and has published 1000's of recipes and hosting tips for Food Network, Weight Watchers, Real Simple, Shape Magazine, Pop Sugar, Bed Bath Beyond, and more. A fun-loving person and natural born host; Julie loves sharing easy recipes and entertaining ideas so you can kick back and enjoy your party too. You can learn more at JulieHartigan.com.
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Whether dealing with “invited pain” from physical activity or “uninvited pain” from an injury or condition – pain is a reality for many Americans. In fact, the CDC estimates that 50 million Americans suffer from chronic pain.
Harley Pasternak, The fitness instructor to celebrities such as Ariana Grande, Jessica Simpson, Adam Levine, and Gwyneth Paltrow shares techniques such as salt soaks, foam rolling, and the first FDA-registered topical pain relief line formulated with CBD, CBDMEDIC. (From 11-14-19)
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From 10-5-16: Comedian and actress Phoebe Robinson talks about her first book, You Can't Touch My Hair (And Other Things I Still Have to Explain).
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Legendary agent and producer Shep Gordon discusses his book THEY CALL ME SUPER MENSCH (From 9-21-16).
It started with a punch from Janis Joplin. It was 1968 and Shep Gordon had quit the job that had brought him to L.A. after only one day. He had about a month’s worth of cash in his pocket when he checked into a Hollywood motel. The first night, he tried to “rescue” a girl he thought was in distress. That was Janis, who punched him in the mouth. With the kind of serendipity that would mark the next five decades in a remarkable career, Gordon’s life as a legendary manager, agent, and producer was launched. Famous among the famous, Gordon came to wider public attention through Mike Myers’s “shagadelic rock doc” Supermensch: The Legend of Shep Gordon. Now, in THEY CALL ME SUPERMENSCH: A Backstage Pass to the Amazing Worlds of Film, Food, and Rock’n’Roll, this charismatic original tells his own version of his rollicking, good-spirited life story.
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In a public service interview, I'm joined by Alla Reznik from Verizon, who talks about cybersecurity awareness and the holidays.
Alla Reznik is the Senior Director at Verizon Business, where she has been leading a national team of Cybersecurity and Unified Communications sales specialists for over two years. With more than 20 years of experience in the tech industry, she has a proven track record of delivering innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of diverse market segments and customers.
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Returning guest Aaron Blakey visits the show to talk about the final book in THE BAD GUYS series, THE BAD GUYS IN ONE LAST THING.
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Kenny Curtis and Jillian Hughes return to the show for a fun chat about the latest book-inspired-by-the-podcast: GREEKING OUT: HEROES AND OLYMPIANS.
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ROB PAULSEN, voice of Yakko on ANIMANIACS, called in to talk about the show's return to Hulu 22 years after its final episode aired.
Maybe you've never heard of Rob Paulsen. But you've heard him. A lot. Maybe you don't know Rob Paulsen, but you know Pinky and the Brain, Animaniacs, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Jimmy Neutron Boy Genius, and most of the other animated projects that Paulsen has been part of as a voice actor for nearly three decades. With over 2,000 (yes, that's right) half-hour programs and dozens of films, video games, and other animated media to his credit, Paulsen has been one of the hardest working, most in-demand, and most beloved voice artists in the industry, earning (so far) a Daytime Emmy and Peabody, three times winning the Annie Award (for voice actors).
Rob called in to talk about the
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Christopher “Chris” Tucker is an international award winning actor and comedian best known for playing the role of Detective James Carter in the Rush Hour film series. Tucker became a favorite on Russell Simmons’ HBO Def Comedy Jam in the 1990's and came to prominence in the 1995 film Friday alongside Ice Cube. Next he co-starred and executive produced Money Talks with Charlie Sheen and then appeared in Luc Besson’s The Fifth Element. In 2006, he negotiated an unprecedented $25 million salary to appear in Rush Hour 3, which at the time made him the highest paid actor in Hollywood.
Chris called in to promote his upcoming show on January 24th at the Chicago Theater. (From 1-14-15)
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Playing in the NBA for eighteen years, Ray Allen won championships with the Boston Celtics and the Miami Heat and entered the record books as the original king of the three-point shot. Known as one of the hardest-working and highest-achieving players in NBA history, this most dedicated competitor was legendary for his sharp shooting. From the Outside, complete with a foreword by Spike Lee, is his story in his words: a no-holds-barred look at his life and career, filled with behind-the-scenes stories and surprising revelations about the game he has always cherished. (From 3-28-18)
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On this episode we once again open The Big Wakeup Call Vault (TM) and listen to some of my Halloween-related interviews!
First, from 9/27/21: Cassandra Peterson AKA Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, made her second visit to the show when she called in to discuss her memoir "Yours Cruelly, Elvira."
From 10/30/2014: Tyler Mane, who donned the mask of Michael Myers in "Halloween" and "H2," talked about his movie "Compound Fracture."
From 1/29/2018: Kane Hodder, who played Jason in the "Friday the 13th" series, chatted about his movie "Victor Crowley."
From 10/20/2021: Deborah Vorhees, actress from the "Friday the 13th" series, talked about her new movie and directorial debut, "13 Fanboy."
From 10/27/2017: "Count" Dominick Dicce discussed his book "You're a Vampire - That Sucks!"
And from 10/20/2015: We revisit Elvira's first appearance on the show, talking about her stint as a guest judge on Food Network's "Halloween Wars."
Happy Halloween!
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Emmy Award-winning and Tony Award-nominated actor Bobby Cannavale called into promote the release of "Jumani: Welcome to The Jungle," out now on digital, and coming to DVD and Blu-Ray on March 20th. We also discussed Boardwalk Empire, how we're both members of the "old dad's club," and unfortunately ended on a down note with a chat about the Jets and the Bears. (From 3-12-18)
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Craig Fugate knows the power and danger of natural disasters like few people in this nation’s history. He served as President Barack Obama’s FEMA Administrator from 2009 to 2017, leading the agency through multiple record-breaking disasters, including floods, tornadoes and Hurricanes Sandy and Matthew
Now, Mr. Fugate is sharing his vast experience in a special interview about being prepared for the danger and challenges of winter weather. Craig discusses the growing number of major weather events and how these events are impacting the nation. Learn why Mr. Fugate is also teaming up with Jackery to share a checklist that reveals important steps families can take prepare for the challenges of winter weather.
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Whether it's a NSFW ("not safe for work") encounter with a bra-selling pet parent or a touching farewell to a beloved family dog - DR. DAWN FILOS bring us a variety of tales underscoring the deep connection and mutual affection between pets and their owners in the new book: TALES OF A PET VET: STORIES FROM THE CLINIC AND HOUSE CALLS
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As National Cybersecurity Awareness Month unfolds, we have an exclusive interview with Cybersecurity Expert, Grant Hansen. This is a timely and critical discussion to help understand the rising threat of cybercrime, with losses exceeding $37.4 billion in the past five years (FBI Internet Crime Report 2023). Grant Hansen brings over 25 years of experience in cybersecurity, offering practical tips and proactive strategies for both businesses and consumers to stay safe in today’s digital world.
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We celebrate 50 years of local area company Grecian Delight | Kronos as they Honor Greek American Cuisine, Culture, and Heritage with Community Events.
Mike Paribello is a seasoned marketing, sales, and innovation leader with over 25 years of experience in the consumer products and food industry. His extensive expertise in brand management, advertising, shopper and retail marketing, consumer insights, and staying ahead of the latest trends has made him a trusted figure among some of the most recognized food companies and brands found in millions of households today.
Throughout his career, including over 20 years at Conagra Foods and Smithfield Foods, Mike has consistently driven growth and innovation. Paribello is now helping Grecian Delight | Kronos into its next 50 years, focusing on innovative and convenient solutions for both retail and foodservice operators making it easy for them to bring the finest Greek and Mediterranean food options to tables and menus everywhere.
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Compiled acclaimed anti-racist educator Liz Kleinrock and celebrated author Caroline Kusin Pritchard, and illustrated by Iris Gottlieb, WHAT JEWISH LOOKS LIKE is a powerful intersectional anthology celebrating thirty-six Jewish heroes—from Tracee Ellis Ross, and Victor Perez, to Doña Gracia Nasi. A first-ever collection that disrupts the narrative of how a Jewish person is perceived!
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Grammy, Tony, and Emmy Award winning singer-songwriter) that’s 3/4 of an EGOT!) Cyndi Lauper called in to talk about some of her newest projects as well as her work as a spokesperson for the 8 million Americans dealing with symptoms of psoriasis.
(From November 14, 2019)
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Linda Sue Park visits the show to discuss her book Gracie Under the Waves.
Linda Sue Park is the author of many books for young readers, including the 2002 Newbery Medal winner A Single Shard and the New York Times bestseller A Long Walk to Water. Her most recent title for middle grade readers is The One Thing You’d Save, a collection of linked poems. Linda Sue is the founder and curator of Allida Books, an imprint of HarperCollins. She serves on the advisory boards of We Need Diverse Books and the Rabbit Hole museum project, and created the kiBooka website, www.kibooka.com, to highlight children’s books created by the Korean diaspora. In her travels to promote reading and writing, she has visited more than 30 countries and 49 states. Linda Sue knows very well that she will never be able to read every great book ever written, but she keeps trying anyway. Visit her website at www.lindasuepark.com; follow her on Twitter @LindaSuePark.
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An informative discussion with Natasha Daniels about her memoir **OUT OF MY SHELL: Overcoming Social Anxiety from Childhood to Adulthood.
Natasha Daniels is an anxiety and OCD child therapist and has published six other books including How to Parent your Anxious Toddler, Anxiety Sucks: A Teen Survival Guide, Social Skills Activities for Kids, It’s Brave to Be Kind, The Grief Rock and Crushing OCD Workbook for Kids. She also hosts the AT Parenting Survival Podcast and has a Youtube channel, Ask the Child Therapist. You can find her work at https://www.socialanxietyreality.com/*;* www.ATparentingsurvival.com or on social media @Atparentingsurvival.**
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Lucy Ashe discusses her new book The Sleeping Beauties.
Lucy Ashe is an English teacher. After training at the Royal Ballet School, she decided to change career plans and go to college. She studied English literature at St. Hugh’s College, Oxford, before receiving her teaching qualification. Ashe’s poetry and short stories have been published in a number of literary journals, and she was shortlisted for the 2020 Impress Prize for New Writers. Her first novel, The Dance of the Dolls, was published in 2023. She lives in New York City.
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Dr. Chadi Nabhan discusses his book THE CANCER JOURNEY: Understanding Diagnosis, Treatment, Recovery, and Prevention.
Chadi Nabhan, MD, MBA, FACP, is a board-certified hematologist and a medical oncologist who practiced hematology and oncology for years. He has authored or co-authored over 300 peer-reviewed manuscripts and abstracts. He is the author of Toxic Exposure: The True Story behind the Monsanto Trials and the Search for Justice and is the creator and host of the weekly Healthcare Unfiltered podcast.
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It's a lively chat with Annie Zaleski as we talk all things Taylor Swift and her new book Taylor Swift: The Stories Behind the Songs.
Annie Zaleski is an award-winning music journalist and author based in Cleveland, Ohio. Her writing has appeared in Rolling Stone, the Guardian, Time, and the Los Angeles Times, and she has written books on artists including Lady Gaga, Pink, and Duran Duran. Facebook: SBTS: Instagram: @anniezaleskiauthor, @thunderbaypress, Annie’s website is anniez.com
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As someone who has worn headphone for nearly 30 years of a radio career and who plays in a band in loud venues, hearing protection is very important to me, so I called in an expert.
We have world-renowned hearing expert Professor De Wet Swanepoel to discuss the critical hearing issues facing many Americans. It’s estimated that 44 million Americans experience hearing loss, but only one-fifth get help. Research has shown that there is a significant relationship between hearing loss, cognitive decline and depression in the elderly, so in 2022, the FDA announced that hearing aids can be sold over-the-counter without a prescription. Professor Swanepoel share some timely info about this serious issue that affects so many families.
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HGTV star Matt Blashaw joins our 6-Timers Club as we talk about sustainable energy for your home. Matt shares tips on the many benefits of using propane in both new construction and remodeling/renovating homes. Matt will share his own experience of living in a propane-equipped homestead that includes appliances, energy sources and back-up power.
This episode is supported by the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC).
Find more information at www.Propane.com/ForMyHome
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Director, writer, comedian, singer and songwriter Gino McKoy called in to discuss his directorial debut on the sci-fi-horror-comedy, "Lumina."
Also written and produced by McKoy with a cast headed by veteran Eric Roberts, the film follows an odd foursome who desperately search for their friend who's mysteriously disappeared. Their quest evolves into a change-of-pace thriller with endless, threatening twists and turns--all laced with a little welcomed humor.
Lumina's back story includes: the first feature filmed entirely in Morocco, one of the few movies completed during the first year of the pandemic and the exclusive single release of "Everything to Me," which is featured on the official soundtrack of the film
Arriving at the start of the annual wave of Halloween films, "Lumina" hits the theaters in a special return engagement on Friday, September 20, 2024.
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William King, founding member of the Commodores, called in to chat about his career and the band's participation in the upcoming 2020 Ultimate Disco cruise. Topics: How "Night Shift" wasn't originally considered to be released as a single, opening for the Jackson 5, and the dedication of their fans. (From November 18, 2019)
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Comedy legend Judy Gold called in to chat about her new book "YES, I CAN SAY THAT: When They Come for the Comedians We Are All In Trouble." (From July 28, 2020)
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Legendary best-selling author Dean Koontz joined us for a chat about dogs and his new book, "Devoted." (From April 2, 2020)
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25 years after the death of Kurt Cobain, former Nirvana manager Danny Goldberg discusses his book "Serving the Servant: Remembering Kurt Cobain."
(From April 2, 2019)
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From March 11, 2020: Film and TV director Barry Sonnenfeld (Men In Black, Addams Family, Get Shorty) talks about his career with some slightly naughty talk, as well as his book "Barry Sonnenfeld, Call Your Mother: Memoirs of a Neurotic Filmmaker." Enjoy one of my final pre-covid interviews where we are blissfully unaware of the garbage insanity ahead.
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In my most popular, most shared, and most downloaded interview of all time, featuring my favorite comments from YouTubers about my "annoying Chicago accent," Dan Howell and Phil Lester (Dan and Phil) talk about their book "The Amazing Book is Not on Fire" and an upcoming appearance at the Chicago Theater. (From April 21, 2016)
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We remember TV legend Phil Donahue with this interview from July 29, 2020, where he was joined by his wife and fellow legend Marlo Thomas to discuss their book "What Makes a Marriage Last."
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Sam Calagione is the legendary brewing superstar who started Dogfish Head, who has written four books and is considered the man behind the massive growth of the micro-brew industry. Sam shared his super secrets for a great party and his innovative takes on classic drink recipes that can take any Labor Day celebration to the next level. We also discussed two famous roommates that helped him in the early days.
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Comedian and actor John Fugelsang called in to discuss his new tv show Page Six TV, shared stories of interviewing George Harrison and Paul McCartney, and talked about his upcoming appearance in Chicago at the Athenaeum Theatre as part of the "Sexy Liberal Comedy Tour." (From Sep. 25, 2017)
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Tracy Wilson and Holly Frey talk about their popular podcast, Stuff You Missed in History Class. (From November 6, 2019)
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Greg Proops discusses his career and new book "The Smartest Book In the World."
(From May 7, 2015)
Greg Proops is a revered stand-up comic from San Francisco, and he records his chart-topping podcast “The Smartest Man in the World” from live shows around the world as well as Cleveland. Mr. Proops has been a voice actor in Star Wars: The Phantom Menace, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and played Bob in Bob the Builder. He has been a guest on @Midnight on Comedy Central; Red Eye; The Late, Late Show; and Chelsea Lately. He lives in Hollywood.
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Tracy Ifeachor visits the show to promote her USA Network series "Treadstone."
USA Network’s new series Treadstone explores the origin and present-day actions of the infamous covert program – as seen in the Jason Bourne movies -- that uses behavior modification protocol to turn recruits into nearly superhuman assassins. The action-packed thriller follows the action across the globe -- from D.C. to Berlin to Paris and beyond – tracking sleeper agents as they’re mysteriously “awakened” to resume their dangerous missions.
One of the show’s leads is British-Nigerian actress Tracy Ifeachor.Tracy plays Tara Coleman, an investigative journalist who turned her back on her career after getting too close to a dangerous truth. Now she must put the past behind her to get to the bottom of an international conspiracy.
Tracy recently completed a season-long arc on CW’s Legends of Tomorrow and starred in ABC’s hit series Quantico. She was the female lead in NBC’s Crossbones opposite John Malkovich and also appeared in the UK cult favorite, Doctor Who.
We go way, way back into the archives for a fun (and funny) visit with Kristen Schaal that almost got me fired! We discuss a "Bob's Burgers" live tour and her appearances on "30 Rock." (From May 1, 2013)
Emmy Award-winning comedy writer Jill Twiss ("Last Week Tonight with John Oliver") returns to the show for a lively chat about her book "Major Makes History." (From September 28, 2021)
Comedy and musical legend Weird Al Yankovic returned to the show for a chat about the success of his album "Mandatory Fun" and an upcoming tour. (From 5/20/16)
Toto keyboardist Steve Porcaro visited the show for a chat about his career, a summer tour, and his first-ever solo album. (From 5/13/16)
Dr. Jen Wademan joined the show to talk back-to-school eye exams and her partnership with Zeiss to recognize Children's Eye Health and Safety Month.
Dr. Jen Wademan, OD, is an optometrist dedicated to promoting a modern approach to eyecare with cutting-edge technology and innovative products while showcasing a general love of eyewear. Dr. Wademan is an author and eye health contributor covering topics like nutrition and eye health, contact lens practical insights and the importance of comprehensive eye exams in children.
Returning guest Tucker Perkins visited the show once again to talk back-to-school bus safety and how propane-fueled busses lead to healthier kids who don't choke on a cloud of diesel fumes like I did for most of my school years.
Tucker Perkins is the president and chief executive officer for the Propane Education & Research Council, a position he’s held since 2017. He has extensive experience in the propane industry, including operating his own propane retail company in Virginia, Premier Propane, as well as holding executive positions at Inergy Propane and Columbia Propane. Perkins holds a B.S. in civil engineering from Virginia Tech and an MBA from the University of Richmond.
Kathryn Nicolai's podcast "Nothing Much Happens" was literally a life-changer for me, as I've been able to have more consistent and restful sleep night after night. I couldn't recommend it more highly. (From 10/20/20).
KATHRYN NICOLAI, the Michigan-based writer and creator of the enormously successful podcast Nothing Much Happens, is an architect of coziness, writing soothing stories that both ease the reader into peaceful sleep and teach the principals of mindfulness so that waking hours likewise become sweet and serene. She leans on her seventeen years of experience as a yoga and meditation teacher to seamlessly blend storytelling with brain training techniques that build better sleep habits over time. She is the owner of Ethos Yoga.
Joanna Ho is one of our favorite guests, and it was a pleasure to have her on the show once again, this time to talk about her book "We Who Produce Pearls: An Anthem for Asian America." Joanna is now a member of our 4-Timers Club!
Longtime Rolling Stone columnist Rob Sheffield joined us in 2016 to discuss his book "On Bowie."
We unlock the massive and highly-secured Big Wakeup Call Vault and retrieve my 2014 interview with "Karate Kid" and "Cobra Kai" star Ralph Macchio.
We celebrate the opening of the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics and the U.S. Women's Gymnastics team and revisit my 2018 interview with 7-Time Olympic Gymnastics medalist Shannon Miller. Shannon talked about her career, and we shared our experiences as cancer survivors as we recognized National Cancer Survivors Month.
From 2018: "Kids In The All" legend Mark McKinney joined the show (appearance #2!) to chat about the season finale of his show "Superstore" and some favorite KITH sketches
We go deep into the archives to 2012 for a chat with comedian, actor, and "Bob's Burger's" star Eugene Mirman.
Jenny Boyd, model, actress, sister-in-law to George Harrison & Eric Clapton and wife of Mick Fleetwood (twice), discusses her memoir *Jennifer Juniper.
(From 4-2-20)*
Baseball legend Dave Winfield discusses his Hall-of-Fame career as one of the few people to be drafted in three major sports. (From 5-23-17)
Chicago's very own Josh Johnson returned to the show for a chat about his first one-hour Comedy Central special, Trevor Noah Presents Josh Johnson.(From 6-15-21)
We're back from our Summer break and happy to once again have consumer expert Alanna Shipley for DoorDash to share some fun and helpful travel tips.
About Alanna: Alanna Shipley is the Head of Audience Insights and Consumer Insights Expert at DoorDash, where she is responsible for establishing, defining, and growing the Marketing Insights function. Alanna discovered her appreciation for insights (or as she calls it, “the psychology of business”) early on in her career and has been building on her research expertise since 2005 through work across a variety of categories and industries, including P&G and Levi Strauss & Co. Alanna is also passionate about using her skillset to inform brands’ social responsibility and workplace diversity efforts, and was the co-founder of LS&Co’s Black ERG (Project Onyx); a group that influenced many changes by using research to challenge the norms and shed light on opportunities for the organization and its leaders. She is a midwest born (Cincinnati, OH), California hearted (because she strongly dislikes winter), nomad traveler (because she loves experiencing different cultures), who is also an extreme extrovert (ENFP Myers Briggs) that would love to be a talk show host if insights didn’t work out (which is why she self identifies herself as “Corporate Oprah”).
Bestselling author Dan Gutman joins the show to discuss the 20th anniversary of the "My Weird School" series and the 100th "My Weird School" bookMiss Nichol Is in a Pickle!
Dan Gutman is the New York Times bestselling author of 185 books for young readers, including the "My Weird School" series, the "Baseball Card Adventure" series, and the "Genius Files." Dan’s books have received nineteen state book awards and ninety-two state book award nominations. Called “an expert at merging humor with history” by School Library Journal, Dan’s books now span many subjects, including history, sports, science, and humor.
Scott Aukerman first appeared on The Big Wakeup Call back in 2014 to discuss the season one DVD of the Comedy Bang! Bang! TV show. Here on his 20th appearance, we discuss the origin of the TV show and what could have been a spinoff, the 15th anniversary of the podcast, the CBB action figures, CBB book, and the Bang! Bang! Into Your Mouth Tour that will visit the Chicago Theater on August 3rd.
Jennifer Donnelly discusses her newest book Beastly Beauty.
Jennifer Donnelly is the author of A Northern Light, which was awarded a Printz Honor and a Carnegie Medal; Revolution, named a Best Book by Amazon, Kirkus Reviews, School Library Journal, and the Chicago Public Library; and many other books for young readers, including Lost in a Book, which spent over 20 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. She lives in New York's Hudson Valley.
Singer-songwriter and "The Voice" alum (Team Blake) Gina Zo called in to talk about her time on the show, what she experienced in the music industry following her appearance, and a story of self-empowerment that led to her embracing her personal truth.
Gina's band Velvet Rouge has a new single coming out soon - check them out on Bandcampand Spotify!
From May 17, 2018: Kate Walsh called in to chat about season 2 of her critically-acclaimed series "13 Reasons Why," which returns to Netflix on Friday. Kate revealed all spoilers for the newseason (which unfortunately could not be included on the podcast version for legal reasons -- sorry!), gave us an update on her health (following surgery to remove a thankfully benign brain tumor) and talked about the joys and challenges of turning 50.
From October 30, 2019: It was a fun visit with returning guest Felicia Day as she called in to promote her newbook "Embrace Your Weird." We talked about our experiences as weird kids and how we were able to harness our mutual weirdness and turn it into a career. With help from her book, you can do it, too!
From October 9, 2020: Amy Bruni is an expert in the world of paranormal investigating. You’ve seen her on the popular tv shows “Ghost Hunters” and “Kindred Spirits.” She’s the author of a newbook, “Life With the Afterlife: 13 Truths I Learned About Ghosts,” which is available now where you buy your books.
Award-winning ABC News correspondent Deborah Roberts called in to talk about her book Lessons Learned and Cherished: The Teacher Who Changed My Life.
Deborah Roberts is an award-winning ABC News Correspondent and co-anchor of the prestigious news magazine, "20/20". A media veteran, Roberts has traveled the world for her reporting. She also served as a substitute anchor for "Good Morning America" as well as a guest co-host on "The View."
Her in-depth coverage of current events has earned her a Peabody Award for the "20/20" special, "Say Her Name: Breonna Taylor." She has been awarded multiple Emmy Awards for her international and national coverage of world events, including the AIDS crisis in Africa and maternal mortality in Bangladesh.
Chef Michael Symon guested on the show for the first time in a decade to talk about his career, how to make sure a restaurant is keeping food and the dining room clean and safe, and shared a recipe as grilling season finally arrives in the Midwest.
Chef Michael Symon is a celebrity chef, restaurant owner and the author of six award-winning cookbooks, including four on the New York Times best-selling list. Symon can be seen serving up recipes and dishes on ‘Symon’s Dinners – Cooking Out’ and the Food Network’s ‘Burgers, Brew & ‘Que’. Plus, be sure to catch his newest show --- ’24 in 24”: Last Chef Standing’ later this Spring. The James Beard Award winner owns several successful restaurants and has received multiple honors during his decades long career.
Michelle Strong, Verizon Business Director Small & Mid-Size Business, joined the show to discuss Verizon's "Small Business Days."
Michelle Strong is the Director for Small and Midsize Businesses at Verizon Business. In this role, Michelle is responsible for leading a team of over 115 sales professionals in the Mountain West Territory of the US to care for America’s smallest businesses (1-9 employees) across 11 states.
Based out of Denver, CO, Michelle leads on developing strategies that support long term revenue growth for the small businesses that are the lifeblood of the American economy. In her role, she focuses on creating a culture of performance excellence combined with the highest integrity, and developing a team of continuous learners focused on caring for all customers.
Michelle is a results driven leader known for driving employee engagement and leadership development across her teams, and she has held a variety of leadership positions across Verizon Business. In her last role as Director of Strategic Sales, Michelle led the largest agent partnerships across the country, including Victra, TCC, and Wireless Zone. Before that, Michelle served as the Director of Retail Sales for the Mountain Territory, serving more than 1.3 million customers and managing over 900 employees across 50 corporate retail stores.
Michelle holds an MBA from Bellevue University and a B.S in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska. Michelle sits on the Board of Directors for a non-profit organization called More Than a Phone, which provides phones and data plans to victims of domestic violence.
Michelle lives in Denver, CO with her two sons. She is an outdoor enthusiast who loves to camp, rock climb, and cheer her boys on during their endless sports.
From October 5, 2018: Paget Brewster joined the show to talk about her new movie The Witch Files. We also discussed Criminal Minds and working with Paul F. Tompkins on The Thrilling Adventure Hour. Plus: an inside scoop on the making of a Drunk History segment.
From September 26, 2016: Comedy legend and Chicago's own Tom Dreesen discusses his comedy career and his appearances on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson (more than 60!), along with a DVD set: THE TONIGHT SHOW STARRING JOHNNY CARSON: THE VAULT SERIES. ABOUT TOM DREESEN (2016 BIO):
Tom Dreesen’s life is equal parts comedy and philanthropy. He excels at both, and has created an extraordinary legacy in both arenas. Dreesen has made over 500 appearances on national television as a stand-up comedian, including more than 60 appearances on The Tonight Show. He was a favorite guest of David Letterman, and frequently hosted the show in Letterman’s absence. He was also a favorite guest of Johnny Carson.
For 13 years he toured cross country and opened for Frank Sinatra, and has appeared countless times in Las Vegas, Tahoe, Reno and Atlantic City with artists like Smokey Robinson, Liza Minnelli, Natalie Cole and Sammy Davis, Jr. Tom has acted in numerous television shows – fromColumbo to Murder She Wrote – and appeared in motion pictures including Man on the Moon and Spaceballs. He has recorded comedy albums, starred in his own TV comedy special, Dreesen Street, and hosted a late night talk show in Chicago, Night Time Starring Tom Dreesen.
He is currently appearing to rave reviews around the country in his one-man show “An Evening Of Laughter and Memories of Sinatra.” Dreesen’s comic style is down-to-earth, warm and unpretentious. Daily Variety called him “a thorough pro… one of the most respected family comedians of our time.” Larry Wilde ,author of The Great Comedians said about Tom’s performances. “Excellent Material, Impeccable Timing, Tom Dreesen is the Quintessential Comedian.” Frank Sinatra, who called himself a “saloon singer,” characterized Dreesen as a “saloon comedian.” “We’re a couple of neighborhood kind of guys,” said Sinatra.
Dreesen has also made an indelible mark with his philanthropic activities. For 30 years he has lent his talent to over 100 charities, and founded a “Day for Darlene” to benefit Multiple Sclerosis Research. He ran 26 miles on three occasions for the event, which is named for his late sister who was afflicted with MS.
And he’s still going strong. A proud veteran of the United States Navy, he continues to perform for US troops all over the world, and recently appeared at numerous bases in Iraq. Tom Dreesen’s hometown of Harvey, Illinois named a street after him. He was a 2005 recipient of the Ellis Island Medal of Honor.
Heidi Brasher is the Senior Director of Movement Engagement, Strategy, and Innovation at YMCA of the USA. In this role, she helps leverage innovation and strategy at the national level in support of the diverse needs of the 2,600+ local YMCAs and their communities across the country. Heidi’s work within the Y Movement spans over 20 years, with local program development experience in the areas of early care, afterschool, day camp and teen programming.
Heidi Brasher joined the show to talk about this year's Healthy Kids Day, taking place at your local YMCA.
For more info, visit: YMCA.ORG/HKD.
Singers, Songwriters, Partners, and YouTube stars Sam Tsui and Casey Breves joined the show for a fun chat about their new book Why Do We Sing? Sam & Casey also sang a song inspired by the book!
Sam Tsui and Casey Breves are married singers, composers, and content creators who live in Los Angeles with their daughter, Elaia, and cat, Alfie. They are graduates of Yale University, where they met singing in an a cappella group together. With original songs and covers that have been viewed and streamed over a billion times, they’ve connected with fans around the world both online and on tour—and they are now thrilled to be sharing their love of music with fans.
TikTok: @TheSamTsui • YouTube: TheSamTsui • Instagram: TheSamTsui • SamTsui.com
Andrew Nelson discusses his new book from National Geographic, Here Not There.
An award-winning writer and editor for National Geographic Traveler, Andrew Nelson has roamed all 50 states as well as numerous countries for the magazine and website. He served as director of editorial projects for National Geographic Travel in Washington, D.C., and has taught in institutions such as Loyola University New Orleans and the College of Charleston. He lives in Washington, D.C. Follow Andrew on Instagram @andrewtyrrellnelson
Aida Salazar chats with Ryan about her new book Ultraviolet.
Aida Salazar is an award-winning author and arts activist whose writings for adults and children explore issues of identity and social justice. She is the author of the middle-grade verse novels The Moon Within (International Latino Book Award Winner), Land of the Cranes (Américas Award Winner), the picture book anthology, In the Spirit of a Dream, and the picture book biography Jovita Wore Pants: The Story of a Mexican Freedom Fighter (International Latino Book Award Winner). She is a founding member of Las Musas, a Latinx kidlit debut author collective. Her short story "By the Light of the Moon" was adapted into a ballet production by the Sonoma Conservatory of Dance and is the first Xicana-themed ballet in history. She lives with her family of artists in Oakland, California.
Chantal Nchako visited the show for a fun and lively chat about her childhood growing up in Cameroon, her early career, current project Diarra From Detroit, now airing on BET+, and working with the incredible Eddie Murphy in her upcoming role in the much-anticipated Beverly Hills Cop: Alex F, premiering on Netflix July 3rd.
Chantal Nchako is a French West African actress. Her multicultural and global experiences are instrumental in her work as an actor and humanitarian. Raised in Douala, Cameroon, her adaptability and captivating stage and screen presence are a fusion of her international heritage.
She developed a strong sense of poise and confidence from her cultures, spiritual background, travels, and strong family ties around the world. She is an ardent athlete and loves to ride horses to Liberate her positive flow of energy. Chantal’s diverse training, experience and professionalism as an actor gained her standout roles in Off-Broadway plays, TV and films. Her work has garnered her rave reviews and interviews in leading newspapers and industry journals, including the Huffington Post, Broadway World, Backstage and New York Theatre. Chantal is fluent in French, Italian and the Bamileke dialect from her native home in Bangoulap.
She studied Shakespeare at the British American Drama Academy at Oxford University with the Great John Barton, earned her BFA at Howard University and her MFA at the University of Southern California School of Dramatic Arts (U.S.C). While at U.S.C she was the first recipient of the Robert Plumleigh Scholarship and also the recipient of the Ava Greenwald Memorial Scholarship for Outstanding MFA Actor. At U.S.C. Chantal was amongst the first MFA students to be accepted and cast in the professional training program at the prestigious Williamstown Theater Festival, the Tony Award Winning resident summer theatre. She played the lead role, Ella, in Sam Shepard’s play. Curse of the Starving Class, directed by Jason Mc Dowell-Green.
At U.S.C, Chantal spearheaded the initiative to diversify the MFA repertory, resulting in the production of the first black play, Twilight Los Angeles 1992. written by Anna Devere Smith. After this successful initiative, Chantal set into motion the plan to teach August Wilson classes in the U.S.C. MFA program: introducing Ruben Santiago Hudson and Michele Shay to help sustain the diversity initiative. During 2020, to support U.S.C’s advocacy of Black Lives Matter, Chantal opened up the dialogue for a town hall discussion. The dialogue defined the inclusion process as an ongoing university priority, bringing together a wide range of stakeholders, including MFA alumni, current students, faculty and university leadership to add balance to the process.
Chantal is a resident faculty member at Silva Arte e Danza musical theatre academy in Siracusa, Sicily and the founder and designer of Choobiz, a luxury shoe line made in Italy.
It was fun re-living childhood memories of action figures and local UHF TV programming with Brad Balukjian as we chatted about his new book THE SIX PACK: On the Road in Search of WrestleMania.
Brad Balukjian has chosen two careers – journalist and scientist
– which converge on pursuit of the truth. He has been published in Rolling Stone,
Smithsonian, National Geographic, and many others. His first book, The Wax Pack: On
the Open Road in Search of Baseball’s Afterlife, hit #7 on the LA Times bestseller list and was named one of NPR’s Best Books of 2020. He is a Research Associate at the California Academy of Sciences, and he discovered 17 species of insects (green flash bugs) in Tahiti, one of which he named after Harrison Ford. He lives on the road, where he’s in an open relationship with his VCR.
It's always fun when we have a returning guest, and after talking about weirdness in the Middle Ages last time, we discussed weirdness in the U.S. Government with his book WEIRD BUT TRUE! KNOW IT ALL: US GOVERNMENT.
Michael Burgan is a historian specializing in writing biographies and current events for younger audiences. His published works include Who Was Henry Ford?, Who Was Theodore Roosevelt?, Breaker Boys: How a Photograph Helped End Child Labor, The Creation of the U.S. Constitution, and Weird But True Know-It-All: Middle Ages. Additionally, Burgan is also a playwright and studied at the University of Connecticut.
Joey Angelo, a liquor industry entrepreneur, launched products such as VIVA XXXII Tequila; MARGS – the canned margarita beverage; and Su Casa Mezcal – which, in less than a year after its launch, is now one of the top-selling brands in the mezcal category. Outside of the liquor industry, Joey Angelo was a seed investor in the celebrity fitness concept Rumble Boxing and played a key role in its launch prior to its sale to Xponential in a deal valued at more than $300 million.
Joe Yogerst returned to the show for a fun chat about his new book 50 States, 1000 Eats: Where to Go, When to Go, What to Eat, What to Drink .
During more than three decades as an editor, writer, photographer, and speaker, Joe Yogersthas lived and worked in Asia, Africa, Europe, and North America. His writing has appeared in Conde Nast Traveler, CNN Travel, Islands magazine, the International New York Times (Paris), Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, Forbes Travel and National Geographic Digital. He has also worked on more than 40 National Geographic books, including the bestselling 50 States, 5,000 Ideas. Joe is a California native and now lives in San Diego.
Affectionally dubbed the “octopus whisperer”, acclaimed author SY MONTGOMERY, returns to the species she knows and loves, offering current and compassionate stories about the scientists on the front lines of octopus research and conservation.
In SECRETS OF THE OCTOPUS, Montgomery, dives deep into the extraordinary life of one of nature's most intelligent and complex animals. Enhanced with breathtaking National Geographic photography, the book offers a captivating journey into the underwater world of the octopus. Often likened to alien lifeforms, these creatures exhibit remarkable intelligence and adaptability.
Montgomery's narrative takes us closer than ever to understanding the octopus, revealing groundbreaking insights into how their large brains are distributed throughout their bodies, as well as their unique ability to alter their genetic makeup in response to environmental challenges. Known for their unparalleled camouflage skills you will see breathtaking photography showing them changing shape and color. It also delves into the touching dedication of octopus mothers to their offspring.
While Eric Cogorno is best known for the golf lessons he gives to more than 400,000 subscribers on his YouTube channel and Instagram, he’s actually spent nearly 20 years building a reputation as a highly respected Performance Golf Coach. He intuitively combines the art and science of golf to teach to each individual student (seemingly) simple strategies that lead to cutting handicaps in half and significantly improving performance for golfers of all levels.
Since 2018, Eric Cogorno has taken his business from $80K a year teaching one-on-one lessons by the hour in Bethlehem, PA, to a multimillion dollar, global golf instruction brand using these same skills and strategies. In the process, he was able to also transform his entire professional and personal lifestyle as well as the golf of hundreds of thousands of people.
As a successful entrepreneur and personal development enthusiast, Eric is on a mission to help people understand the profound value of goal setting, help them get clear about their goals and provide tactical strategies for them to achieve those goals.
From October 27, 2021: Anthony DeCurtis called in for a fun and lively discussion of his book THE ROLLING STONES: UNZIPPED.
For almost 60 years The Rolling Stones have helped shape popular culture around the world. The Rolling Stones: Unzipped traces their impact and influence on rock music, art, design, fashion, photography, and filmmaking. Packed with evocative archival photos, artworks, outtakes, and memorabilia, this stunning visual history immerses readers in the world of the Stones. Peppered throughout with insightful new commentary by Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts, and Ronnie Wood, this volume also features an incisive introduction by writer and music critic Anthony De Curtis, as well as interviews with Buddy Guy (on the roots of the Stones' music), Don Was (on the band's working method in the studio), Anna Sui and John Varvatos (on the evolution of the band's style), Martin Scorsese (on the band's filmed performances and videos), Shephard Fairey (on the band's art and design), and Patrick Woodroffe and Willie Williams (on the band's live shows).
In addition to stills from films, videos, and documentary footage, vivid photographic sections showcase the Stones' musical instruments, their stage clothing, album cover designs, notebooks with lyrics, and tape boxes from the original recording sessions. A bold and captivating record of the "greatest rock 'n' roll band in the world," The Rolling Stones: Unzipped accompanies a blockbuster touring exhibition of the same name, scheduled to open next in late November 2021 outside Toronto, Canada.
Anthony DeCurtis is an author and music critic. He has written for the New York Times, Relix, and Rolling Stone, for which he is a contributing editor.
From September 17, 2017: Jorma Kaukonen, founding member of Jefferson Airplane and Hot Tuna, talked about his career and his memoir Been So Long.ABOUT JORMA KAUKONEN
As a founding member of two legendary bands, Jefferson Airplane and the still-touring Hot Tuna, Jorma Kaukonen has achieved incredible success. A member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and a Grammy recipient, Kaukonen has played with many well-known and historic musicians, including his contemporaries Jerry Garcia, Janis Joplin and Bob Dylan. For the first time, he is sharing his story in BEEN SO LONG: My Life and Music. The book will also include an exclusive five track companion album. The tracks include live recordings of "Been So Long," "Song for the High Mountain," "Broken Highway," "River of Time," and "In My Dreams."
With a foreword by Grace Slick and an afterword by bandmate Jack Casady, BEEN SO LONG is an intimate portrait of an artist who was at the forefront of Psychedelic Rock and has since become one of the most highly respected interpreters of American roots music, blues, and Americana. Kaukonen's memoir reveals the stories behind the songs, lessons from a life in the music industry, and his reflections on a remarkable decades-long career.
BEEN SO LONG charts not only Jorma's association with the bands that made him famous but goes into never-before-told details about his addiction and recovery, his troubled first marriage and still-thriving second, the creation of the Fur Peace Ranch Guitar Camp, which he operates with his wife, Vanessa, and more. Interspersed with diary entries, personal correspondence, and song lyrics, this memoir is as unforgettable and inspiring as Jorma's music itself.
From September 23, 2020: Comedian, actor, SNL alum, Spinal Tap bassist and Simpsons legend Harry Shearer discusses his career and his new album, The Many Moods of Donald Trump.
Award-winning author Ann E. Burg discusses her latest book Force of Nature: A Novel of Rachel Carson.
ANN E. BURG’s debut novel, All the Broken Pieces, was named an ALA Best Book for Young Adults, a Jefferson Cup award winner and an IRA Notable Book for a Global Society, among its many honors. All of her subsequent novels in verse have garnered multiple awards and starred reviews. Serafina's Promise was named an ALA Notable, a Parents' Choice Gold Award Winner, and an NAACP Image Award finalist. Unbound was the winner of the New-York Historical Society Children's History Book Prize, the Christopher Award, and an Arnold Adoff Poetry Honor. Flooded was a Bank Street College Claudia Lewis Award winner, a Bank Street College Best Children's Book (with outstanding merit), and a Junior Library Guild selection. Burg worked as an English teacher for ten years before becoming a full-time writer. She lives in Rhinebeck, New York, with her family. Visit her online at annburg.com.
Best-selling author Steve Berry discusses his latest Cotton Malone novel, THE ATLAS MANEUVER.
Steve Berry is the New York Times and #1 internationally bestselling author of eighteen Cotton Malone novels, five stand-alone thrillers, two Luke Daniels adventures, and several works of short fiction. He has over twenty-six million books in print, translated into forty-one languages. With his wife, Elizabeth, he is the founder of History Matters, an organization dedicated to historical preservation. He serves as an emeritus member of the Smithsonian Libraries Advisory Board and was a founding member of International Thriller Writers, formerly serving as its president. https://www.facebook.com/SteveBerryWriter/ or https://steveberry.org/
Worldwide #1 best-selling author and friend of the show Mark Greaney talks about his latest Gray Man novel, THE CHAOS AGENT.In THE CHAOS AGENT, someone is killing the world’s leading experts on robotics and artificial intelligence. Is it a tech company trying to eliminate the competition or is it something even more sinister? It’s an irresistible lure for most, but not for the Gray Man. His quest for a quiet life has led him to Central America where he and his lover, Zoya Zakharova, have assumed new identities. With a list of enemies that includes billionaires, terrorists, and governments, they need to keep a low profile, but the world’s deadliest assassin can’t expect to hide out forever. When flight’s no longer possible, fight is the only option left, and no one fights dirtier than the Gray Man.
Ryan talks with #1 bestselling author Tiffany Jewell about her latest book, EVERYTHING I LEARNED ABOUT RACISM I LEARNED IN SCHOOL.
TIFFANY JEWELL is the Black biracial #1 New York Times bestselling and #1 Indie bestselling author of This Book Is Anti-Racist and The Antiracist Kid. She is a twin sister, first-generation American, cisgender mama, and anti-bias antiracist (ABAR) educator who has been working with children and families for two decades. She lives on the homeland of the Pocumtuc and the Nipmuck with her two young storytellers, husband, a turtle she’s had since she was nine years old, and a small dog with a big personality.
From May 9, 2018: Rock journalist Steven Hyden called in to discuss his new book Twilight of the Gods: A Journey to the End of Classic Rock. We discussed the Classic Rock upbringing of Gen X'ers, why Lennon-McCartney will be discussed like Mozart, and 90s bands becoming the new classic rock. Plus: we share our love of Styx: Behind the Music.
March is National Ladder Safety Month, and in this special public service episode, Ryan Moss, President of American Ladder Institute discusses important safety tips for DIYers and home renovators.
From May 9, 2018: Music legend Michael Bolton called in to talk about a special documentary film, Michael Bolton Presents American Dream: Detroit. We discussed his love of the Motown sound, why other great music coming from Detroit should not be overlooked, and the cultural importance of a city on the rebound.
From March 17, 2017: Comedian Todd Barry chats about his book Thank You For Coming to Hattiesburg.From the veteran comedian and actor from The Wrestler and Louie comes a hilarious book of travel essays from his time on tour through secondary markets in the US, Canada, and Israel.
Hello. It’s Todd Barry. Yes, the massively famous comedian. I have billions of fans all over the world, so I do my fair share of touring. While I love doing shows in the big cities (New York, Philadelphia), I also enjoy a good secondary market (Ithaca, Bethlehem). Performing in these smaller places can be great because not all entertainers stop there on tour; they don’t expect to see you. They’re appreciative. They say things like “Thank you for coming to Hattiesburg” as much as they say “Nice show.” And almost every town has their version of a hipster coffee shop, so I can get in my comfort zone.
My original plan was to book one secondary market show in all fifty states, in about a year, but that idea was funnier than anything in my act. So, instead of all fifty states in a year, my agent booked multiple shows in a lot of states, plus Israel and Canada.
Thank You For Coming to Hattiesburg is part tour diary, part travel guide, and part memoir (Yes, memoir. Just like the thing presidents and former child stars get to write). Follow me on my journey of small clubs, and the occasional big amphitheater. Watch me make a promoter clean the dressing room toilet in Connecticut, see me stare at beached turtles in Maui, and see how I react when Lars from Metallica shows up to see me at a rec center in Northern California.
I’d love to tell you more, but I need to go book a flight to Evansville, Indiana
ABOUT TODD BARRY
Todd Barry is a stand-up comedian and actor who has appeared on The Late Show with David Letterman, and Late Night with Conan O’Brien. He’s had three Comedy Central specials, and his fourth, The Crowd Work Tour, (produced by Louis CK) is currently on Netflix. Acting credits include Louie, The Larry Sanders Show, Flight of the Conchords, and as Mickey Rourke’s mean boss in The Wrestler. He has released four comedy albums including Medium Energy, named one of the best comedy albums of the decade by The Onion’s AV Club. Find more from Todd on his Facebook page: Facebook.com/ToddBarryFanPage, follow him on Twitter @ToddBarry, and check out ToddBarry.com.
From June 28, 2018: TV legend Marc Summers called in to talk about the reboot of Double Dare! We discussed the legacy of the original show, why aging Gen-Xers like me continue to have such a fondness for show (and how many of us now have kids old enough to be contestants), and how he became a part of the 2018 edition.
From March 15, 2022: Austin Kleon made a return appearance to talk about STEAL LIKE AN ARTIST: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative -10TH ANNIVERSARY GIFT EDITION.About the author:
AUSTIN KLEON is the New York Times bestselling author of Steal Like an Artist, Show Your Work!, The Steal Like an Artist Journal: A Notebook for Creative Kleptomaniacs, and Keep Going. His work has been translated into over twenty languages and featured on NPR’s Morning Edition, PBS NewsHour, and in the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal. New York magazine called his work “brilliant,” the Atlantic called him “positively one of the most interesting people on the Internet,” and the New Yorker said his poems “resurrect the newspaper when everybody else is declaring it dead.” He speaks about creativity in the digital age for organizations such as Pixar, Google, SXSW, TEDx, and the Economist. In previous lives, he worked as a librarian, a web designer, and an advertising copywriter. He lives in Austin, Texas, with his wife and sons.
Website: www.austinkleon.com
Twitter and Instagram https://austinkleon.com
Facebook @Mr.Austin.Kleon
From April 22, 2021: Comedian and actor Roy Wood Jr. returned to the show for a chat about his new podcast Roy's Job Fair.ROY WOOD JR. SHORT BIO
Roy Wood Jr.'s comedy has entertained millions across stage, television and radio. In addition to stand-up comedy, producing and acting, during his tenure on "The Daily Show," Roy has used the show's brand of satire to shed a light on serious issues like Chicago gun violence, police reform, LGBTQ+ discrimination, ICE deportations and PTSD in the black community. He also recently appeared in a guest-starring role on the AMC series "Better Call Saul" and will be seen on "The Last O.G." on TBS and on the Netflix comedy "Space Force."
ABOUT HIS PODCAST ROY'S JOB FAIR
Work is like sex or food - you're either getting it or looking for it. Comedian Roy Wood Jr. (correspondent on Comedy Central's The Daily Show with Trevor Noah) explores the human condition every week through the prism of employment. Roy sits down with real people from ALL lines of work about their most memorable jobs, employment vacancies they're looking to fill, scams they've run at the office, and of course, the cringe-worthy office romances. Roy's famed humor is matched by his true empathy and curiosity for people. Join him on an entertaining exploration into the battle all of us fight every day. Balancing our need to provide with our need for emotional fulfillment. Learn from the people who got it right. Laugh with the rest of us, who constantly get it wrong. Welcome to the Job Fair.
From October 28, 2020: Merrill Markoe is a national treasure in the world of comedy, one the best television writers in the history of ever. Her newest book is “We Saw Scenery.”
From October 26, 2017: "The Book of Leon: Philosophy of a Fool" is a new book written by Leon Black as told to J.B. Smoove. We discussed how Leon took over his book deal, how he gets inside the mind of the character, and why everyone needs their own personal Leon.
Author and historian Hannah Durkin discusses her new book, THE SURVIVORS OF THE CLOTILDA: The Lost Stories of the Last Captives of the American Slave Trade.
About the author:
DR. HANNAH DURKIN is a historian specializing in transatlantic slavery and African diasporic art and culture. She holds a Ph.D. in American Studies from the University of Nottingham and a Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism from Leeds Trinity University. She has taught at Nottingham and Newcastle universities, and recently served as a Guest Researcher at Linnaeus University in Sweden. She is an advisor to the History Museum of Mobile, which is working to memorialize the Clotilda survivors, and was the keynote speaker at Africatown’s 2021 Spirit of Our Ancestors Festival founded by the Clotilda Descendants Association. She is the recipient of more than a dozen academic prizes, including a prestigious Leverhulme Trust Early Career Fellowship. She lives in the southeast of England.
Crime fiction writer and essayist E.A. Aymar called in for a lively chat about his novel When She Left. E.A. received 2,565 bonus points for being a listener to the show, which he will be able to cash in for valuable prizes on his next appearance. (points may not be honored.)About the author:
Multiple Anthony Award–nominated E.A. AYMAR’S thriller No Home for Killers was published to praise from the New York Times, Kirkus Reviews, and South Florida Sun Sentinel and was an instant bestseller. His thriller They’re Gone received rave reviews in Publishers Weekly and Kirkus (starred) and was named one of the Best Books Of 2020 by the South Florida Sun Sentinel. He is a former member of the national board of International Thriller Writers and is an active member of Crime Writers of Color and Sisters in Crime. He runs the DC Noir at the Bar series, was born in Panama, and now lives and writes in―and generally about―the DC/MD/VA triangle.
Aymar also runs a popular and well-regarded newsletter called Crime Fiction Works featuring upcoming top crime fiction novels, interviews, and monthly prizes for subscribers. For more information:
https://eaymar.substack.com/
https://www.instagram.com/eaaymar/
https://www.facebook.com/EAymarWriter
To celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Beatles invading America, we revisit my conversation with the legendary radio DJ Cousin Brucie about his role in their historic first visit.
Alanna Shipley from DoorDash joined the show for a fun chat about Super Bowl eats. What will people order on the biggest game day of the year? What’s the largest order ever? What’s the strangest order ever? What’s the smallest order ever? Alanna knows it all!
Hena Khan called in for a lively chat about her new book for young readers, Drawing Deena.
HENA KHAN is a Pakistani American writer, and winner of the Asian/Pacific American Award for Children’s Literature She is the author of the middle grade novels Amina’s Voice, Amina’s Song, and More to the Story, Drawing Deena, and the Zara’s Rules series and picture books Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns, Under My Hijab, and It’s Ramadan, Curious George, among others. Hena lives in her hometown of Rockville, Maryland, with her family. You can learn more about Hena and her books by visiting her website at HenaKhan.com or connecting with her @HenaKhanBooks and https://www.instagram.com/henakhanbooks/
Author Matthew Blake joined the show to talk about his debut novel, one of the most anticipated of the year, Anna O.
Matthew Blake is a London-based author who has also worked as a screenwriter with the BBC, ITV Studios, and numerous other UK indies.
Matthew worked as a researcher and speechwriter at the Palace of Westminster. He studied English at Durham University and Merton College. A fan of writing and reading horror since he was a boy, he keeps busy between writing and raising his daughter.
Author Matthew Blake will be available from his home in London for an eye-opening interview on Wednesday, January 24th.
Joanna Ho joins our 3-Timers Club as she calls in to talk about her newest book Eyes that Weave the World's Wonders. Joanna was joined by her co-author Liz Kleinrock.
Joanna Ho is the New York Times bestselling author of Eyes that Kiss in the Corners, Eyes that Speak to the Stars, Playing at the Border: A Story of Yo-Yo Ma, The Silence that Binds Us, and One Day. She has been an English teacher, a dean, a vice principal, and a professional development mastermind. Her passion for equity in books and education is matched only by her love of homemade chocolate chip cookies, outdoor adventures, and dance parties with her kids. Visit her at www.joannahowrites.com.
Liz Kleinrock is an author, antibias antiracist educator, consultant, and facilitator for schools, organizations, and companies across the country. A transracial adoptee, Liz was born in South Korea and grew up in Washington, DC. She is the author of Start Here, Start Now: A Guide to Antibias and Antiracist Work in Your School Community and Come and Join Us! 18 Holidays Celebrated All Year Long, illustrated by Chaaya Prabhat. She resides in Washington, DC, with her partner and two bunnies and advocates for a more equitable world through her work with Teach and Transform. You can learn more about her work at lizkleinrock.com.
Our Best of 2023 shows continue as we re-visit my chat with Comedy Bang! Bang's Scott Aukerman about “Comedy Bang! Bang! The Podcast: The Book,” and “Comedy Bang! Bang! the Podcast” (not the book), including a history of "The Backyard Era" and helpful hints on being a part of the show through the "open door policy."
After being away from our show for nine years, Claire Robinson returned just three months after her October appearance to share some fun & helpful tips about holiday food and entertainment.
From December 22, 2017: Comedian, actor, and friend of the show Ben Gleib called in for our end of the year program to share some personal highlights of the past year.
This holiday season, we continue our annual tradition of playing Dylan Brody‘s “A Child’s Christmas In Brief.” Gather the family and enjoy this modern-day holiday classic!
Sharon Cameron made her first appearance on the show for a lively and informative chat about her new book **Artifice.
Christine Platt & Catherine Wigginton Greene called in for a discussion about theirco-authored entertaining and insightful social satire novel, Rebecca Not Becky.
Sharon Cameron is the author of the international bestseller and Reese’s Book Club pick The Light in Hidden Places and the critically acclaimed thriller Bluebird. Her debut novel The Dark Unwinding was awarded the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators' Sue Alexander Award for Most Promising New Work and the SCBWI Crystal Kite Award and was named a YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults selection. Sharon is also the author of its sequel, A Spark Unseen; Rook, which was an Indiebound Indie Next List Top Ten selection, a YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults selection, and a Parents' Choice gold medalist; and The Forgetting, a #1 New York Times bestseller and an Indie Next Pick of the List selection, as well as its companion novel, The Knowing. She lives with her family in Nashville, Tennessee, and you can visit her online at sharoncameronbooks.com or follow her on Instagram at @sharoncameronbooks or on Twitter at @CameronSharonE.
CHRISTINE PLATT writes literature for children and adults that centers African diasporic experiences—past, present, and future. She holds Bachelor and Master of Arts degrees in African and African American studies as well as a juris doctorate in general law. She currently serves as Executive Director for Baldwin For The Arts.
CATHERINE WIGGINTON GREENE is a writer and filmmaker whose storytelling focuses on strengthening human connection and understanding. Her feature documentary I’m Not Racist . . . Am I? continues to be used throughout the US as a teaching tool for starting racial dialogue. A graduate of Coe College and Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism, Catherine is currently pursuing her doctorate from The George Washington University’s Graduate School of Education and Human Development.
On this episode, we're once again chatting with authors!
Don Winslow is a #1 International Best-Selling author. We discussed his new novel, "City on Fire."
A.F. Steadman's debut Young Adult novel, "Skandar and the Unicorn Thief," has already been picked up for a movie deal!
Alyssa Davies is the founder of the two-time award-winning personal finance blog, "Mixed Up Money." We talked about her new book, "Financial First Aid."
In this episode, we chat with two best-selling children's book authors!
Lily LaMotte, brilliant author of the graphic novel Measuring Up, an ALA Top Ten, has written her debut picture book about a special Lunar New Year feast, perfect for fans of Bringing in the New Year by Grace Lin and I Am Golden by Eva Chen. CHLOE’S LUNAR NEW YEAR is a tender, warm, and uplifting holiday story about tradition and the importance of being with those you love. There are educational facts about the Lunar New Year celebration in Taiwan and a fun recipe for a delicious fortune cake!
Karen Edwards has worked for over 20 years in educational publishing. She started her career as a writer and editor of Prekindergarten through Grade 6 textbooks. She then branched out into creating print and digital resources for children, parents, and educators. Karen joined Workman Publishing in 2018 as senior editor to work on the cornerstone brands Brain Quest and Big Fat Notebook and to develop educational titles that support and excite students on theirs journey through school. Karen discussed the first board books of the Brain Quest series.
Chef and author Chadwick Boyd called in to share some holiday recipe ideas, including the mind-blowing Canela Caramel Eggnog.
Jennifer Weatherhead is a travel expert who talked about ways to save on travel for the holiday season.
Chadwick Boyd brings his lifelong passion for food and community to his company, Chadwick Boyd Lifestyle. Like other food media and lifestyle entrepreneurs, such as Martha Stewart, Ina Garten and Nate Berkus, Chadwick juggles running his business and playing multiple roles – TV host, author, magazine contributor, speaker, and executive brand strategist. Since the early 2000s “celebrity chef” Chadwick turned his culinary savvy and enduring relationships into a dynamic set of business channels.
Jennifer Weatherhead is an on-air travel expert racking up air miles around the world for the past 12 years--even during a pandemic!
Along the way Jennifer has been chronicling her adventures and with her time-saving, stress-free tips for making travel as easy and joyful as possible. A fixture on TV and radio, Jennifer has appeared on Marilyn Denis, CTV, FOX, ABC, CW and CGTN, she fills the public in on travel deals, trends, news and always gives inspiration for their next getaway. She also explores travel trends and shares inspiration in The Globe & Mail, Refinery29, TinyAtlasQuarterly, Unearth Women, FLARE, and more.
I've been a fan of "America's Test Kitchen" for years, so it was great to speak with Lisa McManus about the new ATK book **AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN’S KITCHEN GEAR: THE ULTIMATE OWNERS MANUAL.
John Lehr is a member of our 5-Timers club and I'm always happy to welcome him back to talk about the great work being done at the Parkinson's Foundation.**
Lisa McManus is an executive editor for ATK Reviews, cohost of Gear Heads on YouTube, host of Cook's Illustrated's Equipment Review videos, and a cast member—the gadget expert—on TV's America's Test Kitchen. A passionate home cook, sometime waitress, and longtime journalist, she graduated from Columbia University's Graduate School of Journalism and worked at magazines and newspapers in New York and California before returning like a homing pigeon to New England. In 2006 she got her dream job at ATK reviewing kitchen equipment and ingredients and has been pretty thrilled about it ever since. Her favorite thing is to go somewhere new and find something good to eat.
John Lehr leads the Parkinson's Foundation as president & chief executive officer. He has nearly three decades of nonprofit fundraising and management experience, with a strong focus in the voluntary healthcare and medical research sectors.
David Baldacci was welcomed into our 5-Timers Club as we discussed his newest book, The Edge: A 6:20 Man Thriller.
Monica Mohindra joined me to discuss the Library of Congress Veterans Day Outreach for History Preservation Project.
David Baldacci is a global #1 bestselling author, and one of the world’s favorite storytellers. His books are published in over 45 languages and in more than 80 countries, with 150 million copies sold worldwide. His works have been adapted for both feature film and television. David Baldacci is also the cofounder, along with his wife, of the Wish You Well Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting literacy efforts across America. Still a resident of his native Virginia, he invites you to visit him at DavidBaldacci.com and his foundation at WishYouWellFoundation.org.
Monica Mohindra is the director of the Veterans History Project. She has worked for more than 15 years with the Project. She has coordinated major initiatives with Members of Congress, the National Museum of the American Indian, the National Endowment for the Humanities, PBS, Ken Burns/ Florentine Films, the HISTORY Channel, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, among others. Energized by the large collections development initiatives which enable exploring new audiences and new participation in the Project, the most meaningful part of her work is helping uncover and shed light on the individual personal stories of US veterans.
Lifestyle expert Jeannette Kaplun returned to the show to share some insights and holiday shopping and the best way to navigate Black Friday.
Dr. Mona Amin discussed a problem facing many parents (including me) as we gear up for holiday travel: how to deal with queasy kids in the car.
Jeannette Kaplun is an on-air TV personality, author, lifestyle expert, parenting writer, a Latina blogger, and public speaker. She covers parenting, travel, social good, beauty, technology, work-life balance, safety in the home and all things Disney.Aside from being Hispana Global’s CEO and editor in chief, Jeannette has written for Babble, mom.me, Today’s parenting team, Ser Padres and other outlets. She lives in Miami, FL with her family, including her dog Snoopy. Follow along with her latest adventure on her blog at Hispana Global. Email her at info@hispanaglobal.com
Dr. Mona Amin is a Board-Certified General Pediatrician, IBCLC, Parenting coach, social media star, and mother. She has been featured on Parents.com, The New York Times, Good Morning America, ABC Nightly News, Romper, Condé Nast Traveler, VeryWell Family, and NBC News. She works in private practice and is passionate about educating parents and caretakers on better care for their children. On her Instagram account (@pedsdoctalk), her podcast (pedsdoctalk.com), and YouTube channel (PedsDocTalk TV), she shares educational information on parent's most common concerns.
Celebrity chef and author Erin McDowell joined the show for fun recipes and entertaining tips to host a successful "Friendsgiving." Erin was joined by Ice Cream Scientist (amazing job!) Ian Moppert
ERIN MCDOWELL is a NY Times bestselling author and pastry chef who has taught baking classes for Food Network Kitchen and currently hosts the award-winning series “Bake it Up a Notch” for Food52. In her books and on her social channels, Erin loves share ideas, recipes, and techniques with other baker, she especially loves sharing about baking beyond sweets - for breakfast, dinner, and everything in between.
Veena Crownholm is the former Miss California and co-founder of the popular "Millennial Mamas" blog. We discussed holiday entertaining and dining, especially sweet potatoes and pancakes (???).
Shannon Messenger returned to the show to talk about a new graphic novel edition of her #1 Bestseller "Keeper of the Lost Cities."
Dr. John Stutts is the Pediatric Medical Director at Abbott, a global healthcare company. Dr. Stutts visited the show for a special public service segment on preparing for cold and flu season.
From July 19, 2016: Laura Vandervoort made a return appearance to talk about Bitten: The Final Season, airing on Syfy and now available on DVD.
From July 11, 2018: Former WWE Superstar Greg "The Hammer" Valentine called in to promote a new movie, 350 Days. Always fun to chat with one of the superstars from my childhood whose action figure I played with.
ABOUT 350 DAYS:
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the world of professional wresting featuring interviews and photographs with legendary wrestlers and rare in-ring footage! Starring former world champions Bret Hart and Billy Graham, it is a true look behind the curtains at the grueling life they led on the road 350 days a year and the effect that lifestyle had on their marriages, family, physical and mental health.
Featuring Greg Valentine, Tito Santana, Paul “Mr. Wonderful” Orndorff, Abdullah The Butcher, Wendi Richter, Bill Eadie, Nikolai Volkoff, Stan Hansen, Angelo Mosca, Lex Luger, and more, the event also includes some of the last interviews ever done with George “The Animal” Steele, Jimmy “Superfly” Snuka, Ox Baker, The Wolfman, Don Fargo, and 99-year-old Angelo Savoldi.
Eoin Colfer joins our 3-Timers Club as we have an entertaining chat about his new book Juniper's Christmas.You know Eoin Colferas the mega-bestselling author of the Artemis Fowl series. The recipient of many awards and “master storyteller” Colfer, who lives in Ireland, is making a trip to the US in November to talk about his new book: Juniper’s Christmas, a heartwarming, adventurous Christmas classic-in-the-making. It is an unpredictable journey bursting with Eoin Colfer’s signature exuberance and merriment.
On this episode we once again open The Big Wakeup Call Vault (TM) and listen to some of my Halloween-related interviews!
First, from 9/27/21: Cassandra Peterson AKA Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, made her second visit to the show when she called in to discuss her memoir "Yours Cruelly, Elvira."
From 10/30/2014: Tyler Mane, who donned the mask of Michael Myers in "Halloween" and "H2," talked about his movie "Compound Fracture."
From 1/29/2018: Kane Hodder, who played Jason in the "Friday the 13th" series, chatted about his movie "Victor Crowley."
From 10/20/2021: Deborah Vorhees, actress from the "Friday the 13th" series, talked about her new movie and directorial debut, "13 Fanboy."
From 10/27/2017: "Count" Dominick Dicce discussed his book "You're a Vampire - That Sucks!"
And from 10/20/2015: We revisit Elvira's first appearance on the show, talking about her stint as a guest judge on Food Network's "Halloween Wars."
Happy Halloween!
Maggie Hallbach made a return appearance to the show as we talked about National First Responders Day.
Verizon Business today appointed Maggie Hallbach to the role of senior vice president for Verizon Public Sector. She will lead the team that serves the company’s federal, state, local, education and Verizon Frontline public safety customers.
Over her 25 years at Verizon, Hallbach served in a variety of executive and leadership roles, most recently as Verizon Public Sector’s vice president of business development and strategic sales, where she was focused on developing, designing and capturing strategic opportunities. Hallbach also led the team responsible for strategic sales initiatives, including the alignment of sales priorities to the overall Verizon Public Sector strategy.
Financial expert Jean Chatzky returned to the show for a discussion about a new survey about how everyday Americans view their financial situation.
Jean Chatzky is the CEO of HerMoney.com and host of the podcast HerMoney With Jean Chatzky. The financial editor of NBC Today for 25 years and the Financial Ambassador for AARP, she appears frequently on CNN and MSNBC
From November 11, 2020: Charise Mericle Harper is the bestselling author and illustrator of many children’s books, including the Just Grace series, the Fashion Kitty series, and the Next Best Junior Chef series. She called in for a fun chat about her latest, So Embarrassing: Awkward Moments and How to Get Through Them.
Jordan Klepper joined the show for a chat about his new Comedy Central series "Klepper." We discussed Jordan's time in Chicago as part of the Second City touring company, how the show was named, and why it was important for him to get out from behind the desk and go out and about.
From May 26, 2020: Garrett Reisman is a former NASA mission specialist Astronaut and is now a senior advisor for Space X. Garrett called in to lend his unique insight into the upcoming NASA/Space X launch.
From October 30, 2020: Jordan Wolfe is an actor, singer, writer, composer and zombie aficionado. He is the creator of “The Night of the Living Dead - The Musical!” The original concept recording is out now wherever digital music is sold. Note: This interview is complete and uncensored, containing material not included in the on-air version.
From July 24, 2020: Mark Feuerstein joined the show for a chat about his current, recent, and upcoming projects, including his latest movie, "Babysplitters," which is now available on demand and all digital platforms. We also discussed "Wet Hot American Summer: 10 Years Later," "Larry Gaye: Renegade Male Flight Attendant," "The Babysitters Club," and of course "Royal Pains."
From October 16, 2020: Amber Nash is voice of Pam on the Emmy-Award winning animated classic “Archer." Amber called in to promote the newest season of the show.
Celebrity Chef Claire Robinson returned to the show following a 9-year absence to share some fun food tips for fall. Claire and I both agreed we will not wait until 2032 to chat again.
Grace Harry joined the show for a conversation about her book The Joy Strategist: Your Path to Inner Change.
Grace Harry is an artist, entrepreneur, creative muse, pleasure instigator, and speaker. After an illustrious 30-year career in entertainment, Grace, “The Joy Strategist,” found her calling leading what she calls “the Revolution of JOY.” Through her popular playdate community “Play with Grace,” she helps everyday people welcome joy back into their lives. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, HelloGiggles, Vogue Online, The Times UK, The London Evening Standard, and many more.
Antonia Deignan visited the show to talk about her debut book, Underwater Daughter: A Memoir of Surviving and Healing.
About the Author:
Antonia Deignan is a mother of five children by choice, a dancer by calling, and a writer by necessity. She was born on the East Coast but spent most of her life in the Midwest, where she danced with multiple dance companies and raised her children. She opened her own dance studio and directed a pre-professional dance company before a bike accident wish-boned her path, and her identity. Her work has been published in print magazines and online. Now retired, she resides in a beloved island home in Martha’s Vineyard, where she continues to be inspired and write. This is her first book. https://antoniadeignan.com
Renovation experts and hosts of “Fixer to Fabulous”, Dave and Jenny Marrs, along with Daikin Comfort Technologies, have announced the launch of a new initiative called the “Sustainability Series” to highlight ways we can perfect the air we share. This 6-part miniseries will be aired on HGTV during prime time, starting in October.
Dave and Jenny joined us from their family home to share some simple and lasting solutions that we can all get on board with to be part of the movement. They’ve got the scoop on incorporating daily positive changes, big and small, to make an environmental impact in our homes, our communities, and for the health of our entire planet.
You know Rachel Renée Russell as the author of The Dork Diaries, the bestselling blockbuster series chronicling the life and misadventures of middle school students, Nikki Maxwell, and her best friends, Chloe and Zoey. With humor and wit, Rachel’s books encourage tweens to embrace their individuality and always let their inner Dork shine through. The illustrator is Rachel’s daughter Nikki Russell and together they’ve had 19 consecutive NYT bestsellers! We discussed their latest collaboration, DORK DIARIES #15: TALES FROM A NOT-SO POSH PARIS ADVENTURE.
Peter H. Reynolds is New York Times bestselling author and illustrator of many books for children, including Happy Dreamer, The Word Collector, Say Something!, Be You!, andOur Table. He is also the illustrator of When Things Aren’t Going Right, Go Left by Marc Colagiovanni. His newest picture book is co-authored by his 12- year-old son, Henry Rocket Reynolds. All We Need is Love and a Really Soft Pillow is a tender and timeless tale about what matters most: love.
Peter H. Reynolds went for a walk with his son, Henry Rocket, and declared “This is it; this is all we need! Love.” Henry Rocket listened and added, “...and a really soft pillow.” Peter nodded, “Okay. Love, and a really soft pillow.” Henry thought about this, “What about chocolate?” he asked. His father replied, “Right, Love, chocolate, and a really soft pillow.” On they went. And after playing this game, Peter and Henry agreed that when they boiled it down, all they really needed was love... and a pen and paper to write it all down, before they forgot this rather fantastic idea!
October is National Eczema Awareness Month, which provides a timely reminder of the many people who have dry and sensitive skin issues. We visited with nationally renowned dermatologist, and skincare influencer Dr. Lindsey Zubritsky to share simple ways to help manage serious skin issues. What many people don’t realize is that everything from lotions to sunscreens to the laundry detergent someone uses can create serious skin issues. In fact, more than 31 million Americans live with eczema, a chronic, systematic disease that results in annual economic burden of five billion dollars.
We continue our series of returning guests with author Joanna Ho discussing her newest children's book Say My Name.Joanna Ho is the New York Times bestselling author of Eyes that Kiss in the Corners, Eyes that Speak to the Stars, Playing at the Border: A Story of Yo-Yo Ma, The Silence that Binds Us, and One Day. She has been an English teacher, a dean, a vice principal, and a professional development mastermind. Her passion for equity in books and education is matched only by her love of homemade chocolate chip cookies, outdoor adventures, and dance parties with her kids. Visit her at www.joannahowrites.com.
Ariane Szu-Tu, Senior Editor at National Geographic Kids Books, returned to the show to talk about a delightful new book for kids and adults alike, Weird but True DISNEY: 300 Wonderful Facts to Celebrate the Magic of Disney.ARIANE SZU-TU is a senior editor for National Geographic Kids Books. In her time at Nat Geo Kids, she's edited a range of children's books on a variety of fun topics, specializing in books for ages 8-12. Books she's worked on include the 100 Things series, Weird But True Know-It-All series, Not-So-Common Cents, Pirate Queens, Ultimate Book of Reptiles, Kids vs. Plastic, How to Survive in the Age of Dinosaurs, and many more. She lives in Falls Church, Virginia, with her husband, daughter, and dog.
Brian Abrams returned to the show for a fun conversation about his new book “You Talkin’ to Me?”: The Definitive Guide to Iconic Movie Quotes ." ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Brian Abrams is the author of many best-selling oral histories, tackling the subjects of Late Night with David Letterman, Gawker, Die Hard, and the Obama presidency. He was dubbed “the Ken Burns of presidential alcoholism” upon publication of his first book, Party Like a President: True Tales of Inebriation, Lechery, and Mischief from the Oval Office.
October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and Mike Caralis,
nationally renowned cybersecurity expert with Verizon, shared important information on how individuals and small businesses can keep their information safe from criminals.
Anne Gudger visited the show for a chat about her new book The Fifth Chamber.
About the Author
Anne Gudger is an autobiographical essayist who writes hard and loves harder. She’s been published in Real Simple, Cutbank, Cutthroat, The Los Angeles Review, The Normal School, The Rumpus, and the Columbia Journal, among others, and has been a Best of the Net nominee twice. She is also the co-founder of Coffee and Grief, a reading series that’s been thriving since March 2020 and hosts five curated readers every month reading on grief. Anne lives in Banks, Oregon with her beloved husband. The Fifth Chamber is her first book.
From June 22, 2020: Award-winning international film director Peter Medak called in for a chat about his latest movie, "The Ghost of Peter Sellers."
In September 1973 Peter Sellers embarked on the production of a 17th Century pirate comedy in Cyprus for Columbia Pictures (Ghost in the Noonday Sun). Sellers lost confidence with the film as soon as it began and desperately tried to sabotage it, firing the producers in the first week and then setting his sights on his friend the director, Peter Medak. At its core lies the story of an unraveling production but also the tale of a young director firmly on a path to greatness. Medakhad made 3 back-to-back successes; most notably 'The Ruling Class' in 1972 with Peter O'Toole (nominated for the Palm D'Or). This film changed his career forever. After 43 years the wounds have barely healed for Medak and this is his opportunity to tell the story and finally release the weight associated with its failure. The Ghost of Peter Sellers is a comic-tragic feature doc about what it takes to be a film director and survive your biggest disaster.
From October 27, 2016: Legendary actress Tippi Hedren called in to discuss her life and career.
From February 24, 2021: Dylan Lane joined the show to talk about the return of his classic show Chain Reaction on Game Show Network.
From April 8, 2021: Marc and Angel Chernoff, The New York Times bestselling authors of GETTING BACK TO HAPPY discussed their latest book, 1000+ LITTLE HABITS OF HAPPY, SUCCESSFUL RELATIONSHIPS.
From October 31, 2019: Alicia Dennis is People Magazine's Senior Editor of Crime. She's also the host of “People Magazine Investigates,” on Investigation Discovery. We talked about what's in store for the newest season.
From November 18, 2019: William King, founding member of the Commodores, called in to chat about his career and the band's participation in an upcoming disco cruise. Topics: How "Night Shift" wasn't originally considered to be released as a single, opening for the Jackson 5, and the dedication of their fans.
Kenny Curtis and Jillian Hughes called in to talk about the wildly successful podcast "Greeting Out" and new book inspired by the show, GREEKING OUT: Epic Retellings of Classic Greek Myths.Kenny Curtis has more than 30 years in children’s programming as a performer, writer, and producer. He is one of the creators of National Geographic Kids’ Greeking Out podcast series, which he hosts and cowrites alongside his daughter, Jillian Hughes. Together, Kenny and Jillian have helped develop a number of well-known kids content offerings for partners and platforms like Pinna, Tinkercast, Kidz Bop, and 8 Pound Gorilla Records. But Kenny may be best known as the human behind the long-running radio program The Animal Farm on SiriusXM’s original family music channel, Kids Place Live.
Jillian Hughes is a professional writer with her heart in the kids and family industry. She’s a writer for National Geographic Kids’ Greeking Out podcast series and has contributed to other platforms including Pinna, Tinkercast, and iHeart. She also works as a copywriter crafting marketing collateral for numerous industries. While she enjoys working with all her clients, she is especially partial to collaborating with Kenny—who just happens to be her Dad.
From October 24, 2017: Nick Selby is a police detective with more than 20 years of experience fighting cyber criminals. He's also the author of "The Cyber Attack Survival Manual." We discussed the dark web, the biggest mistakes people make when it comes to protecting their identities, how hacking is not just a kid in a basement anymore, and why you maybe shouldn't have a smart adult toy.
From January 3, 2018: Tommy Wiseau called in to talk about a special screening of "The Room" in theaters nationwide from Fathom Events. We discussed the success of the film, his new projects, and how a broadway musical version of "The Room" is in the works.
HGTV Star Matt Blashaw joins our 5-Timers club as we talk emergency preparedness, getting your home ready for winter, and hints and tips for homeowners.
New York Times Bestselling Author Karina Yan Glaser joined the show today for a chat about her new book, "The Vanderbeekers Ever After," the conclusion to the popular series.
Karina Yan Glaser is the New York Times best-selling author of The Vanderbeekers series and A Duet for Home. A former teacher as well as employee of New York City's largest provider of transitional housing for the homeless, Karina is now a contributing editor at Book Riot. Karina lives in Harlem, New York City, with her husband, two children, and an assortment of rescue animals. One of her proudest achievements is raising two kids who can’t go anywhere without a book. Visit her at www.karinaglaser.com,
Ovie Mughelli played nine years in the NFL, signed by the Atlanta Falcons in March 2007 and was a 4th round draft pick for the Baltimore Ravens in 2003. One of the biggest fullbacks in the NFL, Ovie had a breakout 2010 season, earning his first Pro Bowl, representing the starting fullback position for the NFC and also the first Pro Bowl in the fullback position for the Atlanta Falcons franchise. A fullback in college for Wake Forest, Ovie was selected for All ACC First-Team in that position. Ovie called in to try to settle down Bears fans a bit, and to share some tailgating and viewing party tips.
Carmen Ordonez is a leading on-air lifestyle and travel expert, TV Host, Spokesperson and founder behind Viva Fashion. She has appeared in several media outlets including The New York Times, The TODAY Show, Univision, Glamour, Cosmopolitan, CNN, Telemundo and InStyle Magazine to name a few.She is currently the host of "ION Style" on the ION Television Network and shares her practical lifestyle advice on various TV shows including Telemundo's Un Nuevo Dia and Univision's Desiderata America. Carmen joined the show for a chat about events and activities during Hispanic Heritage Month.
From November 30, 2017: We remember Moody Blues drummer and founding member Graeme Edge as we revisit our chat about 50th anniversary shows of "Days of Future Passed," including a PBS special, as well as the third annual Moodies Cruise.
From August 11, 2020: Academy Award-nominated Actor James Cromwell visited the show for a chat about his movie Emperor.
JAMES CROMWELL BIO
James Cromwell earned an Academy Award nomination for his performance as Farmer Hoggett in the international smash BABE, and reprised his role in the hit sequel, BABE: PIG IN THE CITY. In 2018, he appeared notably in the Steven Spielberg/Universal blockbuster JURASSIC WORLD: ANCIENT FUTURES. He recently appeared opposite Meryl Streep in THE LAUNDROMAT for Steven Soderbergh, and will be seen in the period drama EMPEROR alongside Bruce Dern and Ben Robson. Cromwell appeared in THE PROMISE alongside Oscar Isaac and Christian Bale, and in MARSHALL alongside Chadwick Boseman and Sterling K. Brown, with other films including the Academy Award-winning THE ARTIST football dramedy THE LONGEST YARD opposite Adam Sandler, I, ROBOT alongside Will Smith, Oscar-nominated features THE GREEN MILE (Frank Darabont), THE QUEEN (Stephen rears), SECRETARIAT (Gary Ross), SPIDERMAN III (Sam Raimi), and LA CONFIDENTIAL (Curtis Hanson) among many others. Cromwell starred in STILL MINE opposite Genevieve Bujold (Toronto Film Festival Premiere / Top Ten Canadian Films of 2012), winning the Best Actor Award at the 2013 Canadian Film Awards, a Genie Award, and the Best Actor Award at the Seattle International Film Festival for his performance.
Cromwell won a 2013 Emmy Award for his turn opposite Jessica Lange and Lily Rabe on American Horror Story: Asylum. He currently recurs on HBO's Succession opposite Brian Cox, was just seen in two very different season-long arcs concurrently: on Epix's Berlin Station opposite Richard Jenkins and on Starz' Counterpart opposite J K Simmons. He earlier starred opposite Lee Pace on AMC's Halt & Catch Fire, in HBO miniseries The Young Pope opposite Jude Law and Diane Keaton, and continues his recurring role in the TBS comedy The Detour playing Jason Jones' mysterious, wily father-in-law. He played erudite defense attorney Warren Daniels on the TNT/Steven Bochco series Murder in the First, Andrew Mellon on HBO's Boardwalk Empire, starred on the ABC series Betrayal as billionaire industrialist Thatcher Karsten, and appeared on the Fox series 24 as Jack Bauer's father Phillip Bauer. He earned multiple Emmy Award nominations for his work on the HBO original series Six Feet Under, the HBO movie RKO 281, and the NBC drama ER. His body of work encompasses dozens of miniseries and MOWs, including TNT's A Slight Case of Murder, HBO's Angels in America, West Wing, Picket Fences, Home Improvement, L.A. Law, and Star Trek: The Next Generation.
Born in Los Angeles, Cromwell grew up in New York and Waterford, Connecticut, and studied at Carnegie Mellon University (then Carnegie Tech). His father, John Cromwell, an acclaimed actor and director, was one of the first presidents of the Screen Directors Guild. His mother, Kay Johnson, was a stage and film actress.
Roshani Chokshi (www.roshanichokshi.com) is the author of the instant New York Times best-selling first book in the Pandava series, Aru Shah and the End of Time,and its four sequels. She also wrote the New York Times best-selling YA books The Star-Touched Queen, The Gilded Wolves, The Silvered Serpents, and The Bronzed Beasts.The Pandava novels were inspired by the stories her grandmother told her as well as Roshani's consuming love for Sailor Moon. Her novels have been translated into more than two dozen languages and often draw upon world mythology and folklore. Chokshi is a member of the National Leadership Board for the Michael C. Carlos Museum.
Roshani visited the show to talk about her new book The Spirit Glass.
Author Kelly Yang called in for a fun chat about her new bookTop Story: A Front Desk Novel.
KELLY YANG is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of many books for young readers, including the Front Desk series: Front Desk, Three Keys, Room to Dream, Key Player and Top Story, New From Here, and Finally Seen. Front Desk won the 2019 Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature and was chosen as a Best Book of the Year by multiple organizations, including NPR, the Washington Post, and the New York Public Library. Kelly’s family immigrated to the United States from China when she was a young girl, and she grew up in California, in circumstances very similar to those of Mia Tang. After attending college at the age of 13, she graduated UC Berkeley and Harvard Law School. She is the founder of The Kelly Yang Project, a leading writing and debating program for children in Asia and the United States. Her writing has been published in the South China Morning Post, The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Atlantic. To learn more about Kelly and her books, visit kellyyang.com
Michael Thomas Ford is the author of numerous works for both adults and young readers, including Suicide Notes as well as some of the earliest books about the HIV/AIDS crisis and several books about the LGBTQ community. A five-time winner of the Lambda Literary Award, he has also been a finalist for the Shirley Jackson Award, the Bram Stoker Award, the Firecracker Alternative Book Award, and the Ignyte Award. He lives in rural Appalachia with his husband and dogs. Michael called into the show for a discussion of his new book Every Star That Falls.
CHRISTINA SAUER is an associate editor for National Geographic Kids Books. She’s edited numerous titles including the Go Wild! series and National Geographic Readers. An avid supporter of STEAM education, Christina has had the privilege of creating children’s media for Disney Junior and NASA. When she’s not editing, Christina can be found reading with a cup of tea or hiking the mountains of Virginia. Christina visited the show to talk about a new book from National Geographic Kids, Can't Get Enough Horse Stuff.TUCKER PERKINS is president and CEO of The Propane Research and Education Council. Tucker called in to share information on how propane-fueled school buses are safer and healthier for children, and have been shown to help improve performance in the classroom.
Carmen Agra Deedy visited the show to talk about her new book, Carina Felina.Carmen also gave us a Big Wakeup Call first when she read from the book on the show!
CARMEN AGRA DEEDY is one of America's foremost storytellers. Her many award-winning books include The Rooster Who Would Not Be Quiet!; Martina the Beautiful Cockroach, which received a Pura Belpré Honor; and her New York Times bestseller 14 Cows for America. Carmen was born in Havana, Cuba, and lives with her family in Atlanta, Georgia. You can learn more about her work at carmenagradeedy.com.
Aaron Blabey is a #1 New York Times Bestselling author with around 30 million books in print. He is the creator of three gigantically popular book series for kids – The Bad Guys, Pig the Pug and Thelma the Unicorn - and is also the co-executive producer of The Bad Guys movie by DreamWorks Animation and the upcoming Netflix movie-musical adaptation of Thelma the Unicorn. Aaron called in for a fun chat about his new book Cat on the Run.
Steve Binder is Emmy and ACE award-winning producer, director, writer, educator, and Golden Globe nominee. He was the creator, director, and producer ofELVIS, The ‘68 Comeback Specialand now the author of Elvis ’68 Comeback: The Story Behind The Special.Great Elvis Stories!
Scott Aukerman joins our exclusive 20-Timers Club as we talk about “Comedy Bang! Bang! The Podcast: The Book,” and “Comedy Bang! Bang! the Podcast” (not the book), including a history of "The Backyard Era" and helpful hints on being a part of the show through the "open door policy."
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Musician and writer Warren Zanes was a guest on the show for a chat about his new book: Petty: The Biography.
Warren Zanes holds a Ph.D. in visual and cultural studies from the University of Rochester. He was a member of the Del Fuegos, and continues to record music. His work has appeared in The Oxford American, and he has served as a V.P. at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and is currently the Executive Director of Steven Van Zandt's Rock and Roll Forever Foundation.
From June 18, 2018:
Al Roker gave us a call for a chat about his new book Ruthless Tide: The Heroes and Villains of the Johnstown Flood, America's Astonishing Gilded Age Disaster. After asking Al for some tips on getting up early and maintaining energy while working on multiple projects, we had a discussion about the history behind the event, the parallels that can be drawn between then and now, and how experiencing many weather events helps to inform his writing.
From May 7, 2015: Comedian and Whose Line Is It Anyway?star Greg Proops phoned in for a discussion about his book The Smartest Book In the World.
From September 17, 2015: Margaret Cho visited the program to talk about her new Showtime Special, MARGARET CHO: psyCHOand upcoming tour dates, including one in Chicago The Chicago Theater.
From March 29, 2020: Comedian and Actress Jane Lynch called in to talk about her career in comedy, including her role as Alice in The Real Live Brady Bunchat the Annoyance Theater in Chicago, and her new gig hosting a revival of The Weakest Link.
From November 9, 2017: The legendary Emmylou Harris visited the show to promote getTV's first ever holiday special on the digital network, A Nashville Christmas, featuring Emmylou Harris alongside Wyonna Judd, Pam Tillis, Lorrie Morgan and Vincent & Dailey.
From November 17, 2021: Brian Baumgartner, "Kevin Malone" from The Office, called into talk about his book WELCOME TO DUNDER MIFFLIN: The Ultimate Oral History of The Office .
From February 6, 2016: "The Office" legend Kate Flannery shared some stories from her time on "The Office," her days doing improv in Chicago, and her new film, 4th Man Out.KATE FLANNERY BIOGRAPHY
KATE FLANNERY is best known for her 9 seasons as Meredith the drunk on NBC’s THE OFFICE. Her original cult comedy lounge act, the Lampshades plays all over the country and Hollywood regularly including Jack Black's FESTIVAL SUPREME. NY audiences have seen her in Nora Ephron’s Love, Loss and What I Wore, & Valley of the Dolls as Neely O’Hara at the Circle in The Square.
She is currently Jane Lynch’s sidekick in her anti cabaret act, SEE JANE SING. Kate stars in the HBO short EMERGENCY CONTACT and indy films DIAL A PRAYER with Brittany Snow, the Sundance hit, COOTIES with Elijah Wood, the Toronto Audience award winner, FORTHMAN OUT and the soon to be released Tribeca films,TENURED and SLOW LEARNERS. Kate also played Annie Sullivan in ComedyCentral's ANOTHER PERIOD
From November 12, 2018: John Flansburgh from They Might Be Giants called in for a chat about the They Might Be Giants Radio Network, of which I was a charter member. We also talked about my cassette (yes, mine, specifically) of Flood and being mistaken for another bespectacled duo.
From April 1, 2016: "Ringo Starr" called in to talk about his book, Postcards From the Boys," and his upcoming tour with the All-Starr Band.
*DISCLAIMER: not Ringo Starr. An incredible simulation. Part of an April Fool's Day show where I talked to guests even more awesome than our usual stellar lineup.
From November 2013: I had a fun chat with Lisa Loeb about her new album for kids and our shared love of the 70s PBS Kids show "Zoom."
From October 16, 2012: Susanna Hoffs joined the show to talk about her album Someday. We also had a fun guitar geek chat about Rickenbacker guitars.
Chicago's own Amy Landecker called in on September 22, 2017 to talk about an all-new season (season 4) of her critically-acclaimed and Emmy-Award winning Amazon Prime series Transparent.ABOUT AMY LANDECKERLandecker is best known for playing the first-born child in Transparent, Amazon Video’s groundbreaking series about a transgender woman and her chaotic yet lovable family. She stars opposite Jeffrey Tambor, Jay Duplass, Judith Light and Gaby Hoffman. Additionally, Landecker made her directorial debut on Transparent: The Lost Sessions, a 10-episode off shoot of comedic shorts for Funny or Die using Soloway's world of Pfeffermans and the cast of characters surrounding the often dysfunctional family.
Transparent‘s fourth season takes the Pfefferman family on a “spiritual and political journey as they dig deep into their family’s history.” That includes a trip to Israel, where Maura is chosen to speak at a conference and makes a “startling discovery.”
On the big screen, Landecker has completed production on A Kid Like Jake, an independent drama also starring Claire Danes and Jim Parsons, which is based on a celebrated Lincoln Center play about a couple trying to raise a 4-year-old-son who prefers to dress up as a princess instead of G.I. Joe. She most recently appeared opposite Salma Hayek and John Lithgow in Beatriz At Dinner.
TV legend Bob Eubanks joined the show on June 8, 2021, to talk about the 55th anniversary of The Newlywed Game. We also had a fun chat about how he promoted the Beatles 1964 concert at the Hollywood Bowl, where he got paid more than they did! In fact, Bob promoted Beatles concerts on all three of their U.S. tours!
From July 2015, legendary comedian and Chicago-area local hero Jim Gaffigan called in for a brief but entertaining chat with me about the debut episode of The Jim Gaffigan Show.
From December 11, 2014: Legendary TV host and comedy writer Dick Cavett called in to talk about his memoir, BRIEF ENCOUNTERS: Conversations, Magic Moments, and Assorted Hijinks.We discussed Groucho Marx, Jack Benny, John and Yoko, and many more. At the end of the interview, Dick complimented me on my interviewing style, which is certainly a highlight of my career,
ABOUT DICK CAVETT
Dick Cavett was the host of The Dick Cavett Show on ABC and PBS, and he also hosted talk shows on the USA, HBO, and CNBC cable networks. He appears frequently on stage, screen, and new media, and was nominated for his most recent Emmy Award in 2012. He is the author of Talk Show and the coauthor of Cavett and Eye on Cavett, and he writes an online opinion column for The New York Times. He lives in New York City and Montauk, New York.
From June 22, 2018, legendary author James Patterson called in to talk about his new novel, The President Is Missing, a collaboration with former president Bill Clinton. Immediately following our show, the book became the #1 best-seller in the nation. While we take no credit, we still think we helped to move a lot of copies.
ABOUT JAMES PATTERSONJames Patterson received the Literarian Award for Outstanding Service to the American Literary Community from the National Book Foundation.
He holds the Guinness World Record for the most #1 New York Times bestsellers, and his books have sold more than 375 million copies worldwide.
A tireless champion of the power of books and reading, Patterson created a new children's book imprint, JIMMY Patterson, whose mission is simple: "We want every kid who finishes a JIMMY Book to say, 'PLEASE GIVE ME ANOTHER BOOK.'" '
He has donated more than one million books to students and soldiers and funds over four hundred Teacher Education Scholarships at twenty-four colleges and universities. He has also donated millions of dollars to independent bookstores and school libraries. Patterson invests proceeds from the sales of JIMMY Patterson Books in pro-reading initiatives.
On this episode, we re-visit my chats with best-selling superstar author **Rick Riordan!
Rick Riordan, dubbed “storyteller of the gods” by Publishers Weekly, is the author of five #1 New York Times best-selling middle grade series with millions of copies sold throughout the world: Percy Jackson and the Olympians, The Heroes of Olympus, and the Trials of Apollo, based on Greek and Roman mythology; the Kane Chronicles, based on Ancient Egyptian mythology; and Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard, based on Norse mythology. Rick collaborated with illustrator John Rocco on two #1 New York Times best-selling collections of Greek myths for the whole family: Percy Jackson’s Greek Gods and Percy Jackson’s Greek Heroes. Rick is also the publisher of an imprint at Disney-Hyperion, Rick Riordan Presents, dedicated to finding other authors of highly entertaining fiction based on world cultures and mythologies. He lives in Boston, Massachusetts with his wife and two sons.
From October 2021: Rick called in for a chat about Daughters of the Deep.From October 2020: Rick and I discussed his book The Trials of Apollo.
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We once again open the nearly filled to capacity Big Wakeup Call Vault and go back to 2020 for a fun conversation with radio legend Cousin Brucie. Brucie introduced the Beatles and others to America as a DJ on WABC in New York City. Brucie was promoting his new radio show, back at WABC for "Saturday Night Rock & Roll Party ."
On this episode, we open the vaults and revisit my 2019 chat with the legendary William Shatner, who was promoting a local screening of "Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan” on the big screen, followed by a live conversation with the one and only “Captain James T. Kirk.”
On this episode, Gaby Dalkin, NY Times Bestselling Cookbook Author, Chef & Creator of "What’s Gaby Cooking" joined the show to discuss summer grilling. Gaby was also joined by Josh Archibald from Tillamook, who shared some ideas on cheese pairing and more.
Then I'm joined by Paco Lomeli, firefighter and paramedic for Station 16 in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles. Paco and the station crew are featured on "LA Fire and Rescue," airing on NBC and streaming on Peacock.
This episode of The Big Wakeup Call is supported by YES Cacao, chocolate powered by botanicals. YES is organic, raw, wild-harvested cacao blended with function-specific formulas including "Brain Power," "Endurance," and "Bliss Out." YES is dark, wild harvested cacao. Shop now at https://www.yescacao.com
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On this episode, I visit with Rock and Roll Hall-of-Famer Lee Loughnane,trumpeter and original member of Chicago. The band will be performing live on "A Capitol Fourth," broadcast on PBS at 8:00 Eastern/7:00 Central on July 4th.
Brian "Uncle John" Boonehas been a contributor to the "Bathroom Reader" series for more than two decades. We chatted about the newest book in the series, "Strange USA."And Jean Chatzky, award-winning journalist and host of the "Everyday Wealth" podcast, called in to discuss the financial challenges facing historically under-represented groups.
Actor Daniel Kyri from NBC's "Chicago Fire" joined us to discuss the show (streaming on Peacock), his character, filming and living in Chicago, and his appearance at an event at the Paley Center in NYC where his bunker gear will be on display.
Daniel José Older is the award-winning, New York Times best-selling author of works of urban and historical fantasy for adults, young adults, and middle grade readers. In addition to the Outlaw Saints duology, his series include Bone Street Rumba, Dactyl Hill Squad, and The Shadowshaper Cypher, launching with Shadowshaper, which won the International Latino Book Award and was named one of Esquire’s 80 Books Every Person Should Read. He has also written two standalone novels (The Book of Lost Saints and Flood City), three Star Wars novels, and numerous short stories. He became an author after a decades-long career as a New York City paramedic and is also an accomplished musician. Daniel called in to discuss his new book, Last Canto of the Dead.Shannon Duncan is an entrepreneur and author. He also penned: “Present Moment Awareness”. Duncan lives in California finding his way to an authentic expression of himself, including and especially his sense of humor, has been the most rewarding aspect of healing from trauma. Shannon joined the show for a discussion of his new book, Coming Full Circle: Using Psychedelics to Heal Trauma.
In a special community service episode, I'm joined by John Lehr, President, and CEO of the Parkinson’s Foundation, as we highlight Parkinson's Awareness Month.
Also calling in to the show is Dan Lambe, CEO of the Arbor Day Foundation, who talked about the celebration of Arbor Day and the importance of trees,'
We are back for a BRAND NEW SEASON!
On this episode, I visit with author, illustrator, screenwriter and filmmaker Brian Selznick as we discussed his new book Big Tree, one of the most anticipated books of the year!
My second guest, Gabrielle Bourne, is an actress, writer and DIY expert! We discussed her role in the new film Air, and Gabrielle shared some home renovation tips.
Thank you for all of your support so we can bring another season of great guests!
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Popular author Crispin Boyerjoined our 4-Timers Club when he called in to talk about his new book in the "Zeus The Mighty" series from National Geographic Kids, Zeus the Mighty: The Voyage of the Oddest Sea.
Emily Fego is an assistant editor for the National Geographic Kids Books team. Emily called in for a fun chat about a new book,That's Fact-tastic! Mind-blowing, Eye-popping, Jaw-dropping Stuff About Our World . Along with other fun facts, I learned how we can smell garlic with our feet and had a childhood memory shattered with a revelation about Cookie Monster.
With everyone seemingly groggy from the time change, I called in a sleep expert, Dr. Carlos Nunez, who joined our 3-Timers club when we discussed healthy sleep habits and how to know if you might suffer from sleep apnea.
Kurt Braunohler and Scotty Landes joined the show for a lively chat about their popular podcast "Bananas," Kurt's new comedy special "Perfectly Stupid," Scotty's upcoming movie "The Machine" (which you can see the trailer in front of "Cocaine Bear),driving a giant double-sided butt from Los Angeles to New York City to moon the entire country, and more!
This episode is brought to you by America's post-pandemic return to the movies. Doesn't it feel good to dump your trash on the floor again?
Dean Regas called in for a lively discussion about astronomy and his new book from Nat Geo Kids, "1000 Facts About Space."
Dean Regas has been the Astronomer for the Cincinnati Observatory since 2000. He is a renowned educator, author, national popularizer of astronomy and an expert in observational astronomy. From 2010-2019 Dean was the co-host of the PBS program Star Gazers. He is the author of six books including "Facts From Space!"and "100 Things to See in the Night Sky". Dean is a Contributing Editor to Sky and Telescope Magazine and a contributor to Astronomy Magazine, where he won 2008 “Out-of-this-World” Award for astronomy education. Dean has written over 160 astronomy articles for the Cincinnati Enquirer, blogged for the Huffington Post and is regularly featured on television and radio. Dean is a frequent guest on National Public Radio’s Science Friday with Ira Flatow and NPR's Here & Now. He also hosts an astronomy podcast with Anna Hehman called "Looking Up!" Follow Dean on IG @deanregas or facebook or Cincinnati Observatory
Holly Geyer, M.D., author of Ending the Crisis, is an Addiction Medicine Specialist at Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz. Her work is directed toward helping people with complex illnesses who are in the hospital, with special attention to addiction screening, evaluation and treatment for patients and families with concerns about substance use disorder. A key part of her work focuses on quality of life and the best use of nondrug interventions for diseases such as cancer. In addition to her clinical activities, Dr. Geyer is active in research, patient advocacy and healthcare policy at an enterprise and state level. She is well published in high-impact scientific journals and book chapters and maintains an active international lecture schedule. She additionally serves as a Physician Director of the Mayo Clinic Physician Assistant Fellowship program.
Cassandra Clare is the author of the #1 New York Times, USA Today, Wall Street Journal, and Publishers Weekly bestselling Shadowhunter Chronicles. She is also the coauthor of the bestselling fantasy series Magisterium with Holly Black. The Shadowhunter Chronicles have been adapted as both a major motion picture and a television series. Her books have more than 50 million copies in print worldwide and have been translated into more than thirty-five languages. Cassandra lives in western Massachusetts with her husband and three fearsome cats. Cassandra talked about the final book in her Last Hours trilogy, Chain of Thorns.
Dean Sheremet, chef & certified nutritionist, is a graduate of the French Culinary Institute in New York City and has worked in Michelin starred restaurants. After a decade spent in the NYC restaurant scene, Dean moved back to California to star in FOX's hit show, My Kitchen Rules, and The CW's Terry Crew Saves Christmas. Chef Sheremet appears regularly on Access Hollywood, CBS The Talk, Fox’s Good Day LA, and Hallmark's Home and Family. He also contributes to Cosmopolitan, US Weekly, and The Daily Meal, and has worked with Michelle Obama’s Chefs Move to Schools initiative. Dean discussed healthy recipes for the new year and the benefits of cooking clean with propane.
In this episode, we chat with two best-selling children's book authors!
Lily LaMotte, brilliant author of the graphic novel Measuring Up, an ALA Top Ten, has written her debut picture book about a special Lunar New Year feast, perfect for fans of Bringing in the New Year by Grace Lin and I Am Golden by Eva Chen. CHLOE’S LUNAR NEW YEAR is a tender, warm, and uplifting holiday story about tradition and the importance of being with those you love. There are educational facts about the Lunar New Year celebration in Taiwan and a fun recipe for a delicious fortune cake!
Karen Edwards has worked for over 20 years in educational publishing. She started her career as a writer and editor of Prekindergarten through Grade 6 textbooks. She then branched out into creating print and digital resources for children, parents, and educators. Karen joined Workman Publishing in 2018 as senior editor to work on the cornerstone brands Brain Quest and Big Fat Notebook and to develop educational titles that support and excite students on theirs journey through school. Karen discussed the first board books of the Brain Quest series.
We open The Big Wakeup Call Vault(tm) and turn back the clock to 2019 to feature interviews from three legendary British singer/songwriters from the 80s new wave!
From August 8, 2019: Glenn Tilbrook of Squeeze joined the show on August 8, 2019 to talk about "The Squeeze Songbook 2019" tour.
From October 21, 2019: Mick Hucknall called in for a chat about Simply Red's then-new album "Blue Eyed Soul."
From June 11, 2019: Howard Jonesvisited to promote his then-new album "Transform."
Comedy Bang Bang!'s Scott Aukerman holds the title of the favoritest of our all-time favorite guests! In his record-breaking 19th appearance on the show, Scott and I discussed the highlights of the 2022 Comedy Bang Bang Oh No! world tour, memories of the Backyard Era, and his plans for 2023. Plus: CBB-TV DVDs, searching for MC Hammer, and updates on "Comedy Bang! Bang! The Podcast: The Book!"
If you would prefer reading the interview instead of listening, please check out the transcript!
We're making this a holiday tradition every year as we enjoy Dylan Brody's humorous, poignant, and inspiring reading of his original piece "A Child's Christmas In Brief."
Meena Harris is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Ambitious Girl, a lawyer, an entrepreneur, and the founder of Phenomenal, a values-driven, 360-degree media company that centers women and historically excluded communities. She currently resides in the Bay Area with her husband and two daughters. Meena called in to talk about her charming new book (given 1 million stars by my daughter), The Truth About Mrs. Claus.
It's special episode to help you with your holiday cooking, baking, and shopping!
First, we discuss holiday recipes with Food writer and cookbook author Melissa Clark. Melissa is staff reporter for The New York Times Food section, where she writes the popular column “A Good Appetite” and has appeared in over 100 cooking videos. She is the author of The New York Times bestsellers Dinner in French and Dinner in One, as well as Dinner, Dinner in an Instant, Comfort in an Instant, and Kid in the Kitchen. The winner of multiple James Beard and IACP awards, Melissa earned an MFA in writing from Columbia, and her work has been selected for The Best American Food Writing. She lives in Brooklyn with her husband and daughter.
Then I visit with Andrew Testa, who shares some great goodies and gadgets are popular this season. Andrew is a technology expert for Verizon.
Samantha Cole is a senior editor for Motherboard, Vice Media's science and technology outlet, where she covers sexuality, online culture, platforms, and the adult industry. Born on Maryland’s eastern shore, Sam’s decade in journalism spans from hyper-local newspapers to national and international outlets including Popular Science, Fast Company, and Al Jazeera. In 2020, she was nominated for a Writers Guild Award for best digital news coverage. In her spare time, Sam can be found biking around Brooklyn, stress-baking, and spelunking into internet subcultures. Samantha talked about her new book How Sex Changed the Internet and the Internet Changed Sex: An Unexpected History. Learn more about Sam on her website: https://samleecole.com.
Dossé-Via Trenou is a West African astrologer who has been studying the field since she was 10 years old. In a quest to know herself better, she explored her own birth chart, as well as those of her friends and family, and astrology became her passion. In July 2011, when Dossé-Via was a sophomore at the University of Southern California, she created her Twitter page @ScorpioMystique, where she shared knowledge about her zodiac sign. She has since attracted hundreds of thousands of loyal readers on her social media accounts. Dossé-Via now shares astrological knowledge with all 12 zodiac signs via her platform and app, KnowTheZodiac. We discussed her book Signs and Skymates: The Ultimate Guide to Astrological Compatability.
In this episode we discuss National Family Caregiver's Month and how the Parkinson's Foundation recognizes this important month and shares valuable information for those with Parkinson's and also their caregivers.
I'm joined by John Lehr, President and CEO for the Parkinson’s Foundation, along with Veera Rastogi, Parkinson’s care partner and serves on the Parkinson’s Foundation People with Parkinson’s Advisory Council.
Please visit www.parkinson.org for more information.
In this episode:
Shannon Messenger graduated from the USC School of Cinematic Arts, where she learned—among other things—that she liked watching movies much better than making them. She’s studied art, screenwriting, and film production, but she realized her real passion was writing stories for children. She’s the New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of the award-winning middle grade series, Keeper of the Lost Cities, as well as the Sky Fall series for young adults. Her books have been featured on multiple state reading lists, published in numerous countries, and translated into many different languages. She lives in Southern California with her family—and an embarrassing number of cats. We talked about her new book **"Keeper of the Lost Cities: Stellarlune."
Rebecca Sheir is the author of the Circle Round books, and the host, writer, and producer of the Circle Round storytelling podcast. Sheir has also brought thousands of stories to life as a news reporter on public-radio shows like Morning Edition, All Things Considered, Here & Now, The Splendid Table, and Marketplace. She lives in western Massachusetts with her husband and son. The Latest From Storey Publishing The award-winning Circle Round storytelling podcast for modern kids shares some of their most popular folktales in the new Circle Round picture book series. Each interactive book is colorfully illustrated by an artist from where the folktale originates and is accompanied by storytelling prompts and activities. Her new book is "Circle Round: The Great Ball Game."During more than three decades as an editor, writer, photographer, and speaker, Joe Yogerst has lived and worked in Asia, Africa, Europe, and North America. His writing has appeared in Conde Nast Traveler, CNN Travel, Islands magazine, International New York Times (Paris), Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and National Geographic Traveler. He has contributed to more than 40 National Geographic books, including the best-selling 50 States, 5,000 Ideas; the 2021 Lowell Thomas Award-winning 100 Drives, 5,000 Ideas; and 100 Parks, 5,000 Ideas. His first U.S. novel, a murder-mystery titled Nemesis, was published in 2018. His first children’s book, National Parks: Where the Wild Things Are! was recently published by Basher/Kingfisher in London. We discussed his newest book "100 Cities, 5000 Ideas: Where to Go, When to Go, What to See, What to do."**
On this episode:
Michael Mehta Webster is an expert in ecology, conservation, philanthropy, and non-profit management. His research interests focus on how organisms and ecosystems adapt to environmental change, how this information can be translated into effective conservation strategies, and the practical and ethical dilemmas that arise along the way. We discussed his new book "The Rescue Effect: The Key to Saving Life on Earth."
Andrew Fazekas, also known as the "Night Sky Guy" is a science writer, speaker and broadcaster who shares his passion for the wonders of the universe through all media. He writes the popular online stargazing columns for National Geographic and is the author of the bestselling book Backyard Guide to the Night Sky. Fazekas is a syndicated correspondent for television and radio broadcast networks, the communications manager for Astronomers Without Borders and an active sky-watching member of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada since 1983. Co-creator of the world’s first open-air, augmented-reality planetarium experience in Canada, Fazekas brings stars down to Earth in his weekly skywatching livestream shows. He has never met a clear night sky he didn’t like. Andrew and I had a chat about his new book "**National Geographic Stargazer's Atlas: The Ultimate Guide to the Night Sky."
Allyson Johnson is a senior editor for National Geographic books, where she publishes travel, photography, cookbooks, and illustrated reference titles, including the New York Times bestselling Blue Zones Kitchen by Dan Buettner; the top-selling 5,000 Ideas series by Joe Yogerst; NATJA award-winning 100 Dives of a Lifetime by Carrie Miller; best-selling What to Eat When by Drs. Michael Roizen and Michael Crupain; and the upcoming National Geographic The 21st Century. Previously she worked as a lifestyle editor at Every Day Rachael Ray magazine where she covered food, travel, and DIY. She lives in northern Virginia with her husband and two children. Allyson talked about her latest book from National Geographic, "National Geographic Complete National Parks of the United States, 3rd Edition: 400+ Parks, Monuments, Battlefields, Historic Sites, Scenic Trails, Recreation Areas, and Seashores."**
On this episode we once again open The Big Wakeup Call Vault (TM) and listen to some of my Halloween-related interviews!
First, from 9/27/21: Cassandra Peterson AKA Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, made her second visit to the show when she called in to discuss her memoir "Yours Cruelly, Elvira."
From 10/30/2014: Tyler Mane, who donned the mask of Michael Myers in "Halloween" and "H2," talked about his movie "Compound Fracture."
From 1/29/2018: Kane Hodder, who played Jason in the "Friday the 13th" series, chatted about his movie "Victor Crowley."
From 10/20/2021: Deborah Vorhees, actress from the "Friday the 13th" series, talked about her new movie and directorial debut, "13 Fanboy."
From 10/27/2017: "Count" Dominick Dicce discussed his book "You're a Vampire - That Sucks!"
And from 10/20/2015: We revisit Elvira's first appearance on the show, talking about her stint as a guest judge on Food Network's "Halloween Wars."
Happy Halloween!
National First Responder’s Day is recognized each October 28th to honor brave paramedics, firefighters, emergency technicians, and others who put their lives on the line to keep people safe. During disasters, like the the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, first responders must work fast in the search and recovery phase, even when extreme weather takes out much of an area’s traditional infrastructure.
Maggie Hallbach, President of Verizon Frontline, will discussed how new 5G technology is improving communication during disasters. She also shared details from an exclusive survey of first responders about the role technology plays in everyday public safety and response to major emergencies.
Climate change is one of the biggest challenges facing the world today. In fact, the far-reaching impact of climate change affects the future of everything – even what we plant in our gardens and yards. A new tool created by the Arbor Day Foundation in partnership with the Davey Tree Institute reveals how future hardiness zones are shifting dramatically. This means that in some parts of the country, trees planted today, won’t be the same species that will thrive decades from now.
Dan Lambe, Chief Executive of the Arbor Day Foundation, discussed a new tool that was created in partnership with the Davey Tree Institute to show how "hardiness zones’" are changing now and in the future. As the climate continues to warm, learn how the types of trees and plants that thrive in a particular area will change. This interview also revealed how climate is warming fast enough to change hardiness zones within the lifespan of trees that are being planted today.
During the 12-year history of The Big Wakeup Call, I've been fortunate enough to chat with nearly the entire cast of Bob's Burgers! These are all from the earlier years of the show (2012-2014) and you can hear I was a little hyper back then!
Sometimes they were on to promote the show, sometimes with other projects, but here are my chats with Bob, Louise, Tina, and Gene!
From December 5, 2014: H. Jon Benjamin
From May 1, 2013: Kristen Schaal
From October 7, 2014: Dan Mintz
From December 14, 2012: Eugene Mirman
On this episode, we feature three New York Times bestselling authors!
David Rubenstein joined our 4-Timers club when he called in to discuss his new book "How to Invest: Masters on the Craft."
Kwame Alexander discusses his latest Young Adult fiction book "The Door of No Return."
J.C. Cervantes chats about her new Young Adult novel "The Lords of the Night."
This episode is brought to you by Costco's $1.50 hot dog and soda combo. Who says poor decisions can't be a good value?
From November 7, 2018: Former David Letterman writer Bill Scheft called in to talk about his experiences working with Dave and a new book, "The Last Days of Letterman: The Final 6 Weeks," for which he wrote the foreword. Making Bill genuinely laugh right off the bat certainly gave me some confidence I might be slightly humorous.
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From April 12, 2021:
Dave Parker won two batting titles, an MVP award, three silver sluggers, and played in 7 all-star games. Of his 339 career homers, I bet at least 100 of those were hit against the Cubs. Dave called in to talk about his memoir, “Cobra: A Life of Baseball and Brotherhood.”
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From June 4, 2019: I was very excited to chat with one of my all-time favorite actors, Vincent D'Onofrio, about his new movie (which he directed) "The Kid." After a brief bit of fan gushing regarding "Criminal Intent," we discussed the film, and then Vincent gave me an impromptu acting challenge, which I more or less failed miserably.
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From November 17, 2014: Jillian Bell called into the show to ostensibly talk about 22 Jump Street, which had just been released on DVD and Blu-Ray. It wound up going a little off the rails and is still one of my favorite interviews.
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From September 2, 2021: Michael Ian Black is a friend (and hopefully) fan of the show as a member of our 6-Timers Club. We had a fun chat about his new book for kids called "I'm Sorry." Michael also gave some questionable medical advice and shared his thoughts on the NFL season from his perspective as an NFL veteran with nine years in the league and two rings.
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From August 18, 2021: Andy Summers is a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and legendary guitarist for The Police. Andy dialed us up for a discussion of his book "Fretted and Moaning: Short Stories." We also talked about biting the headstock off a bass guitar and the mysterious wonders of the D7 chord.
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Lisa Loeb is a friend of the show as a member of our 3-Timers Club. This is her first appearance from April 10, 2013, when Lisa called in to promote her newest kids album at time. We wound up also discussing our mutual love for the '70s PBS kids show "Zoom." It's crazy to think this was 2 years before my daughter was born, and my sons were just 14 and 10, with my youngest only a few years removed from being the #1 Wiggles fan in the U.S. He also became a Lisa fan after this interview.
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From April 30, 2021: Justin Baldoni visited the show for a chat about his book "Man Enough: Undefining My Masculinity." We also showed off our awesome radio voices.
Justin Baldoni is an actor, director, producer, entrepreneur, and changemaker whose efforts are focused on creating impactful media and entertainment. He is the creator and director of CW’s “My Last Days,” an uplifting documentary series about life as told by courageous people living with a terminal illness, and the creator of “Man Enough,” the dinner conversation series which dives into traditional masculinity.
Most recently, Baldoni established Wayfarer Studios to further create purpose-driven content. He directed and produced Wayfarer Studios’ first film project, “CLOUDS.” which is Disney’s first-ever narrative acquisition on its global platform.
Next, Baldoni is set to direct “Hold Back the Stars” for Lionsgate. Justin also serves as founder and chairman of The Wayfarer Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to transforming the way communities see and respond to the needs of people experiencing homelessness.
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From 2012: Aubrey Plaza called in to promote the latest episode of "Parks and Recreation" and in doing so became the first guest on my show to use naughty words. I wasn't mad; I was impressed she was able to fit a "s*y" and two "h*djs" in less than seven minutes. I think that's a record. This episode also features an appearance by my original co-host, JoAnn Genette.
Required disclaimer:
THIS EPISODE CONTAINS EXPLICIT MATERIAL.
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Michael Rapaport returned to the show for the first time in 5 years (we have settled our differences) for a fun chat about the Chicago Bulls, New York Knicks, and his podcast "I am Rapaport Stereo Podcast."
Michael Rapaport is an American actor and comedian. He has appeared in over sixty films since the early 1990s, and starred on the sitcom The War at Home. He also appeared in Boston Public, Friends, Prison Break, Justified, and Atypical. Some of his notable film roles include True Romance (1993), Higher Learning (1995), Metro (1997), Cop Land (1997), Deep Blue Sea (1999), The 6th Day (2000), Dr. Dolittle 2 (2001), Big Fan (2009), and The Heat (2013). He also directed the award winning documentary Beats, Rhymes & Life: The Travels of a Tribe Called Quest (2011).
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We kickoff Season 12 of The All New Big Wakeup Call Podcast with another look into the archives, from May 5, 2021.
Minnie Driver is an Oscar and Golden Globe nominated actress best known for her roles in Good Will Hunting, Phantom of the Opera, Grosse Point Blank and The Riches, among others. As a teenager, she began singing and playing guitar in London jazz clubs, while earning her degree in drama from the Webber-Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art. In addition to her acting career, she is also a singer-songwriter and has released three critically acclaimed solo albums.
Minnie called in for a chat about her career and her new podcast, "Minnie Questions with Minnie Driver."
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On this special 65 minute episode, we open the heavily guarded Big Wakeup Call Vault and bring out some of my interviews with Heavy Metal Legends!
From 10/13/14: Anthrax's Scott Ian joined the show for a chat about his book "I'm the Man."
From 5/11/15: I visited with Duff McKagan (Guns N' Roses, Velvet Revolver) to discuss his book "How to Be a Man (and Other Illusions)."
From 10/19/15: Def Leppard's Phil Collins dialed us up to talk about his book "Adrenalized: Life, Def Leppard and Beyond."
From 6/27/17: Mark Slaughter was a guest on the show to promote his album "Halfway There."
From 9/9/20: Dave Mustaine from Megadeth called in to talk about his book "Rust in Peace: The Inside Story of the Megadeth Masterpiece."
From 12/17/20: I chatted with Twisted Sister's Jay Jay French about his podcast, "The French Connection: The Music Business and Beyond."
From 11/17/17: Skid Row's Sebastian Bach discussed his book "18 and Life on Skid Row"
From 12/13/17: Scott Ian returned to the show to talk about his book "Access All Areas: Stories from a Hard Rock Life."
In this informative episode, small business expert Mark Tina joined me for a lively discussion about economic challenges and how small and mid-sized business can set themselves up for success. Then, super mom and TV lifestyle host Kathy Buccio shared tips and hacks to take the stress out of managing a busy home.
One of our favorite guests, Ben Gleib (perhaps a member of our 999,999 club) returned to the show to chat about his new comedy special, "The Mad King," now streaming on YouTube.
The 12th anniversary celebration doesn't stop! Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan from gofugyourself.com became members of our 12-Timers Club when they called in for a chat about fashion and their origin story!
Our 12th anniversary celebration continues with a visit from one of our favorite guests: Humorist, Playwright, Author, Comedian and someone who could kick your ass at karate, Dylan Brody!
Dylan's new album "Road Tested" is now available!
Our 12th anniversary celebration continues with a visit from perhaps the favoritest of our favorite guests! Scott Aukerman makes his 18th appearance on our show for a chat about the upcoming Comedy Bang Bang World Tour 2022!
In this week's big, huge, enormous, fun-filled, action-packed segment, Bill and Ryan share fond foggy memories of their mischievous past of high school hijinks that would certainly have them doing some jail time were they done today for TikTok (statute of limitations has long passed now, so don't even think about it).
Topics also include:
- Lightyear's Lesbian Kiss
- Bad TikTok Challenges
- Voyager is having a stroke
- Bill is not a method author
- Ryan unwittingly becomes British royalty
This episode is brought to you by uncomfortable silence.
Today's show included discussions on a wide variety of whatnot, including:
- Bill & Ryan's BTS Love
- Mansplaining Miss Marvel (again)
- A Breaking Blue Beetle Bulletin
- Deadpool's Disney Direction
- Re-casting The Flash?
- A Shazam-Black Adam Slapstick Buddy Comedy
Thank you for listening and PLEASE subscribe & leave us a positive comment. Thank you!
In yet another visit from the World News Center, Bill McCormick and I discussed things and stuff and whatnot, including:
- Bill's dangerous coffee consumption
- Old man complaining
- Disney vs. Daycare
- Obi Wan blows up the canon
- Batman! The Musical
- News on Namor
- The Buddy Rich Tapes.
Enjoy the laughter and hijinks.
This week, Bill and I had a frank and explicit discussion about important issues of the day, including:
- Egyptian Moon Knight
- Secrets of She-Hulk
- Unsupportive Superhero parents
- Miss Marvel's lack of stretchiness
- Bill runs a Miss Marvel focus group
- Bill and Ryan have no pull at Disney
Miss a little, miss a lot!
On this week's episode, Bill shares his experience with scammers hacking his Instagram account and using it to sell bitcoins and other ways for you to waste your money. Also: Marvel's mental illness, Dr. Strange on acid, and Bill's trust issues.
Mary Lynn Rajskub joined the show for what turned out to be of my favorite interviews ever! Mary Lynn called in to promote her new book “Fame-Ish: My Life at the Edge of Stardom” (and did a great job at doing so). We discussed the heartbreak of a lack of plus-one, being semi-recognized in public, and drinking at the Golden Globes. Plus: I name-drop Scott Aukerman and Mary Lynn and I get engaged. I think. We’ll ask my wife. Actually, she’ll ask my wife. We’ll work something out.
On this week's episode, listen in with a mix of awe and terror as Bill & Ryan expose the unseemly underbelly of the Cook County jury system. There's also some stuff about underage drinking and real celebrities.
On this week's show, John Waters returns to the show for the first time since 2019 to discuss his new book and first novel "Liarmouth."
James Rollins joins our 4-Timers Club (and is just one appearance away from a t-shirt, cap, or mug) for a chat about his new book "Kingdom of Bones," the latest in the Sigma Force series.
And John Michael Higgins also makes his 4th visit to the show as we talk about the new season of "America Says" on Game Show Network.
On this week's episode, we're once again chatting with authors!
Don Winslow is a #1 International Best-Selling author. We discussed his new novel, "City on Fire."
A.F. Steadman's debut Young Adult novel, "Skandar and the Unicorn Thief," has already been picked up for a movie deal!
Alyssa Davies is the founder of the two-time award-winning personal finance blog, "Mixed Up Money." We talked about her new book, "Financial First Aid."
All of today's titles are now available where books are sold.
In this week's episode, Bill shares his story of becoming victim to an Instagram scam (see, this is why I'm never on there). Plus: Bill isn't selling bitcoin, Elon Musk's poison porcupine, Chinese censorship & C&Ds.
In another fun and exciting segment, Bill McCormick and I chatted about several scattered subjects, including:
- How we get new listeners
- Playing with a bleeping machine
- Moon Knight's minor characters
- Rock Star laundry lists
- Was Bill Plastercasted?
- Bill straying from the script
-
1 New York Times Robot Best-Sellers
This episode is brought to you by a gentle reminder not to use those effing naughty words on the bleeping radio.
In this week's episode we welcome some new listeners to the show from all around the world! We're so happy you found us.
Topic on this week's show include:
- Ryan misunderstands Passover
- Bill discusses his saving bonds collection
- Batgirl's ice cream suit
- a pump & dump warning
- catching up with Ryan's college buddy, Elon Musk.
In this episode, I'm once again joined by three very fun guests!
Natasha Leggero called in to talk about her new show, Rat In the Kitchen. Of course we discussed the essential nuances of the UB40 tune. Plus: I let Natasha know my feelings were not hurt by a bit she did with Anthony Jeselnik trashing morning radio hosts (I actually really enjoyed the bit because 99 percent was true! I am clearly the exception).
Amanda Rettke dialed us up for a chat about her new book HOMESTEAD RECIPES: Midwestern Inspirations, Family Favorites, and Pearls of Wisdom from a Sassy Home Cook. We discovered we had so much in common, including the great tradition of "supper," the semantics of "hot dish" vs. "casserole" and our unexpected common Minnesota roots. Amanda might also be the first guest to do some research on me! (results were positive)
Randy Rainbow joined the show to discuss his very funny new memoir Playing With Myself, which I very much enjoyed saying on the radio over and over with no chance of getting in trouble or having it misinterpreted or completely taken out of context. Randy and I also discovered our mutual love of '50s and '60s "Original Cast" albums of Broadway musicals.
This episode is brought to you by my new memoir The Wonderful World of Disappointment, coming soon to a bookstore probably nowhere near you.
Children's music Superstar Raffi has been entertaining kids for decades, including all three of my children. It was an honor to chat with him and thank him for the wonderful music my kids enjoyed so much we wore out two copies of his "Rise and Shine" album. Raffi joined the show along with acclaimed kids music singer-songwriter Lindsay Munroe to talk about their latest collaboration with their new album, Nursery Rhymes for Kinder Times.
This week Bill McCormick and I take a break from pop culture & comics 'n' science and stuff for a public service segment about protecting yourself from online frauds and scams.
This week, Bill McCormick and I discuss boring Morbius, Moon Knight's gift Shop, a Professor X/Magneto buddy comedy, more Miss Marvel, and the Goldfish Effect. Plus: A box full of kittens!
Legendary Stray Cats drummer Slim Jim Phantom returned to the show after 6 years for a lengthy chat about his new podcast, "Rockabilly Confidential." Plus: his relationship with George Harrison, recording with Dave Edmunds, going to baseball games with Johnny Ramone, and lessons in stand-up drumming!
In this week's episode we chat about tidbits of whatnot, including:
- Bill McCormick Denies Mansplaining
- Jered Leto's Method Morbius
- The Muslim Miss Marvel
- Moon Knight Man Boobs
- Smilin' Brie Larson
- Central Time Confusion
This episode is brought to you by Dollar Health Club.
In this episode Bill McCormick and I once again discuss things and stuff. Topics include:
- The return of baseball
- Way too many superhero movie lawsuits
- Russian EDM knife fights
- Boycotting Russian Roulette
- Day Drinking with Bozo
This episode is brought to you by Marshall Brodien's "TV Magic Cards."
In this episode I chat with some of my favorite authors, all returning guests, including two NEW members of The Big Wakeup Call's Five-Timers Club!
Brad Meltzer joined the club when he called in to talk about his new novel "The Lightning Rod."
Stephanie Wrobel returned to the show for a chat about her latest novel "This Might Hurt."
And Mark Greaney became a member of the club when we discussed his new novel "Sierra Six," the latest in the "Gray Man" series.
This episode is brought to you by vintage word processors. I don't know why.
This week Bill McCormick shares the origin story of Namor, the Sub-Mariner, and the litany of lawsuits it might take to get a feature film made. Plus: Ice holes, Strangling Hitler, Burning body hair, and Nick Cannon of the deep.
This episode is brought to you by Aquaman's concentric circles.
On this episode, we chat with some music greats!
John Oates joins our 6-Timers Club as he joins us to talk about his new tour, "An Evening of Songs and Stories with John Oates Featuring Guthrie Trapp." Next time we need to get John in the studio and go on an eating tour of Chicago pizza places. John is hoping to get a Chicago date on this tour for May, so that could possibly happen!
DJ Jazzy Jeff called in for a chat about his career and his new podcast, "Bel-Air, The Official Podcast."
Aubrey Powell and his design firm Hipgnosis created some of the most iconic album covers of all time, including Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Paul McCartney, Peter Gabriel, and tons more. Aubrey might do a cover for my band so that would be a dream come true!
I've been fortunate enough to interview so many rock and roll icons throughout the history of the show, and being a drummer myself, it's always so much fun for me to chat with true drumming legends. In this special episode, we feature my interviews with three all-time greats.
From August 24, 2016: Slim Jim Phantom from The Stray Cats joined me for a chat about his book And a Stray Cat Struts: My Life As a Rockabilly Rebel.
From January 14, 2015: Marky Ramone called in to talk about his book Punk Rock Blitzkrieg: My Life as a Ramone.From February 10, 2021: John Densmore discussed his book The Seekers: Meetings With Remarkable Musicians (and Other Artists).This episode is brought to you by paradiddles, flam taps, and gated reverb.
On this episode, Bill McCormick and I covered a variety of topics, including:
- Bee Bricks & Bee belly rubs
- DC & Marvel cooperating on Flash & Aquaman's chit-chat
- Land of the Lost
- Evil Dr. Strange
- Peacemaker vs. Justice League
And in response to a nasty, surly, angry email, we offered our standard apology.
This episode is brought to you by that thing we definitely didn't say.
This week Bill McCormick and I discussed the latest goings-on with Star Wars, including Hatin' on Boba Fett, Disney's no blood no harm no naughty words policy, Rosario Dawson as Ahsoka Tano, and why it's not in one's best interest to irk a Wookie.
This week's episode is brought to you by the maddening itch of wasted opportunity.
On this week's episode, Bill McCormick and I took a deep dive into the SpiderVerse, including topics like:
- Why Ryan hasn't seen Spider-Man
- Bill's Inside Spider-Man Sony Sources
- Madame Web vs Dr. Strange
- Spider-Man, The Interrupter
- A Spider-Man & Kingpin Buddy Comedy
- She Hulk's series and potential purple pants
- News about Namor
This weeks' episode is brought to you by Fire. Hulk says Fire bad.
In this week's visit from the World News Center, Bill McCormick and I had another lively discussion about interesting items, including:
- Eating sugar packets
- Too many Eternal Universes
- A brief pivot to Pink Floyd
- Standard Policy of disappointing sequels
- Venom 2: Buddy Comedy?
- Spiderman & Venom: Buddy Comedy?
- Namor at Last!
This episode is brought to by that shop that sells merchandise.
In another visit from the World News Center, Bill McCormick called in for another fun-filled, action-packed chat about things, stuff, and whatnot.
Topics include:
- R.I.P. Meat Loaf
- Stepping on Jim Steinman
- Joss Wheeon digs himself in deeper
- Endless Robert Pattinson Batman
- Potential James Patterson Batman
- Way too much freakin' Batman
This episode is brought to you by the people who make popular products.
I've been fortunate to interview many of my favorite comedians on the show over the years, and on this Flashback Friday episode, we open The Big Wakeup Call vault for a series of fun and/or entertaining chats!
From October 26, 2012: Judah Friedlander called in talk about the latest season of "30 Rock" and a Hot Pockets video he allegedly directed.
From October 7, 2015: Paul F. Tompkins joined the show to chat about his stand-up special "Driving and Crying."
From May 17, 2019, Pete Holmes dialed us up to talk about his book "Comedy Sex God."
This episode is brought to you by Second Show Friday.
In yet another visit from the World News Center, Bill McCormick called in to talk about the wonder of wildlife. Topics included cloning ferrets, cloning wooly mammoths, cloning horses, 3-D printed squirrels, gorilla Karens, and chimps on bath salts. Plus, the usual discussion about things and stuff and whatnot.
It's another journey into The Big Wakeup Call Vault, where we travel back through the mists of time to bring you some of our favorite chats. On this episode, we're featuring interviews with The Sex Pistols!
From 4/29/15, John Lydon called our show to promote his new book "Anger Is An Energy: My Life Uncensored." We talked about why fashion has always been important to him, how his songwriting process has stayed consistent over the years, and why he called Public Image “a hole I chuck money into.”
From 1/17/17, Steve Jones discussed his memoir “Lonely Boy: Tales From a Sex Pistol.” We talked about how he wrote the book through a series of Skype chats, growing up poor in London without a fridge or a bathtub, and things that are not rock and roll — like “meet and greets,” electronic drums, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
From 10/3/17, Sex Pistols drummer Paul Cook called in to talk about a new album from his post-Pistols project The Professionals, "What In The World,"featuring an all-star lineup of guests including Pistol and Professional Steve Jones, along with Mick Jones, Phil Collen, Billy Duffy and more. Joining Paul was new Professionals lead singer Tom Spencer.
From 9/14/18, John Lydon returned to the show for chat about a new documentary, "The Public Image is Rotten," as well as his upcoming concert in Chicago. John also shared his thoughts on music streaming, self-funding a band, and making sweater vests cool.
This episode is brought to by the feeling you've been cheated.
To prove without a doubt these segments are recorded life and without rehearsal, Bill McCormick once again joined the show to talk about things, stuff and whatnot. Topics include Bill's review of "No Way Home," dehumanizing humans, spoiling trailers, Eternals, and movies we haven't seen.
The Big Wakeup Call says goodbye to 2021 with interviews from some of our favorite guests!
Scott Aukerman from Comedy Bang! Bang! makes his 17th appearance on our show, as we chat about Comedy Bang! Bang! World, an unlicensed CBB coloring book, an 8-hour documentary, and the show's original host.
Jill Twiss joins us for the 3rd time as we discuss her career as an Emmy Award-winning comedy writer, best-selling author of children's books, and joke writer for the national spelling bee.
Dylan Brody breaks through into the 10-timers club with a special performance of his monologue "A Child's Christmas in Brief," destined to be an annual holiday tradition on our show.
Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan, the nation's top fashion bloggers from gofugyourself.com, call in for the 11th time. We chat about the year in fashion, Jessica's appearance on Jeopardy, and trends for 2022, which may or may not include capes and velvet.
Dayna Isom Johnson, Etsy trend expert and a judge on NBC's "Making It" with Nick Offerman and Amy Poehler, joins our 7-timers club as we discuss what's hip and happening in design for 2022.
And Bill McCormick calls in for what must be at least the 500th time as he makes another weekly appearance.
Thanks for listening all year long, and let's have a better 2022.
In a charming, delightful, and heartwarming holiday episode, Bill McCormick shares the unusual nuclear origins of the "Santa Tracker."
Like all of us, I was shocked and saddened to hear about the death of Mike Nesmith. I just saw him perform as part of the Mike and Micky Monkees Farewell Tour just a little over a month ago. I did think Mike looked a little frail, but he sounded great and the show was fantastic.
I was fortunate enough to have Mike as a guest on the show twice, first on April 19th 2017 when his memoir "Infinite Tuesday" had just come out. He also called in about a year later on April 12, 2018, when the paperback version came out.
I'm happy and honored I was able to spend time with him.
In another special BONUS episode, we once again visit with Bill McCormick from the World News Center, we had yet another lively discussion about things, stuff, news nuggets and tiny tidbits, including more Zack Snyder Justice League rumors, counterfeit Spiderman tickets, bootleg DVDs, complaining Beatles, the dated sarcasm of The Eternals and more!
In yet another visit from the World News Center, Bill McCormick and I chat about all of our delightful listeners (perhaps even YOU!). Plus:
Brie Larson's workout videos
$1000 Spiderman tickets and $600 Etch-a-Sketches
Romaning Venom
Too Many Toms & Cumberbatches
and more talk about things and stuff!
This episode is brought to you by the manufacturers of products.
In this episode, we feature three extremely famous bestselling authors who are all returning guests!
First I visit with Rick Riordan, "Storyteller of the Gods," and we discuss his new book "Daughter of the Deep."
Then I'll chat with Eoin Colfer for a fun conversation about his latest bestseller, "Fowl Twins Get What They Deserve."
And Worldwide #1 Bestselling author David Baldacci joins the 3-timers club when we discuss his new book "Mercy," the 4th book in the Atlee Pine series.
This episode is brought to you by prescription drugs with incredibly bad side effects.
It's another fun-filled, non-stop, action-packed episode!
First, I'm joined by Harry Shum Jr. to talk about his new movie "Broadcast Signal Intrusion."
Then I visit with Brian Baumgartner about his new book "Welcome to Dunder Mifflin: The Ultimate Oral History of The Office."
And Jodie Sweetin calls in to share her experience on "Celebrity Exorcism."
This episode is brought to you by that popular product you are using right now!
Your typical podcast wouldn't even attempt to talk about Christmas trees, fox urine, Adam Driver, Zack Snyder's dumb slate, the Sandman's taco tour, and Tom Holland's sleepwalking. Fortunately, this is not your typical podcast. Enjoy this special BONUS episode with Bill McCormick and Ryan Gatenby recorded LIVE from the World News Center!
A new season of The All New Big Wakeup Call Podcast continues with some very fun guests!
Jen Kirkman is a comedian, actress, screenwriter, and podcast host. We talk about her podcast, "Anxiety Bites."
George Wallace joins our 4-timers club! His best-selling book “Bulltwit and Whatnot: The online Ramblings of George Wallace, is now out in paperback.
Dana Schwartz is making her 2nd appearance on the show. Her Noble Blood podcast is one of the most listened-to shows in the genre. She's got a brand new one discussing Bruce Willis called "Haileywood."
The Big Wakeup Call is brought to you by Hotel 99 and Chicago's 4-Star Icicle Ale.
Bill McCormick from the World News Center joined me to discuss subjects I have no clue about, including Squid Game cryptocurrency, and obscure Marvel characters.