From Muhammad Ali to Carrie Fisher, hear how the lives of the biggest stars were truly lived. With exclusive interviews from the people who knew them in life, journalist Stephanie Okupniak tells the stories of the dead.
S2 Ep4: George Michael: Part One
Nov 23, 2020
Show notes
What would you be willing to give up to be famous? George Michael gave his fans songs they will sing for the rest of their lives - but he had to live a lie for decades. Stephanie Okupniak is joined by his friend and manager Rob Kahane and publicist Phil Lobel to shine a spotlight on his life. In part one, we explore how George transitioned from boyband heartthrob to a chart-topping solo phenom - all while struggling with his sexuality.
S2 Ep3: Lemmy
Nov 16, 2020
Show notes
Lemmy lived life in the fast lane. The heavy metal pioneer rewrote the history books - fueled by speed, cigarettes and a bottle of Jack. Stephanie Okupinak takes a deep dive into the rock god's life with the help of journalist Morat and writer Steffan Chirazi.
S2 Ep2: Prince
Nov 09, 2020
Show notes
Prince was more than pop royalty - he was an artist, a trailblazer, a pioneer and a symbol - literally. Stephanie Okupniak talks to his studio engineer Susan Rogers and mega fan and biographer Matt Thorne to see what it’s like to work and play with a legend.
S2 Ep1: River Phoenix
Nov 02, 2020
Show notes
Imagine fleeing a cult at four to become a movie star by 14. River Phoenix was more than an 80’s heartthrob. He was a musician, a vegan, an environmental activist and an Oscar nominee. Stephanie Okupniak is joined by director William Richert and family friend Josh Greenbaum to talk about the echo River left behind.
S2: A Life Lived is back!
Oct 30, 2020
Show notesA Life Lived is back Monday November 2nd. Stephanie Okupniak talks to friends and family members of icons to find out what their lives were like behind the curtain. Find out how Prince supported the Black Lives matter movement and why Margot Kidder was arrested outside the White House in Series 2. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify - or wherever you get your podcasts.
S1 Ep16: Introducing...Truth vs Hollywood
Jun 11, 2020
Show notes
Introducing the newest Audioboom original podcast, Truth vs Hollywood. Join cinephiles David Chen and Joanna Robinson as they do a deep dive into well known films and discuss how similar they are to the actual story. • Truth vs Hollywood premieres June 12th • subscribe on Apple Podcasts
S1 Ep15: Carrie Fisher
Dec 02, 2019
Show notes
Carrie Fisher is best known for her role as Star Wars' iconic feminist hero Princess Leia. But before she ruled over Alderaan, she grew up here on earth as Beverly Hills royalty. In the spotlight her whole life, Carrie battled demons, family feuds, drug addiction and bipolar disorder - all while navigating a successful Hollywood career. Through turbulent relationships and personal heartache her rebellious spirit would remain - and inspire millions. Stephanie Okupniak is joined by Carrie's brother Todd for a look at the remarkable life of a woman who not only survived but thrived when all the forces were against her.
S1 Ep14: Kurt Cobain
Nov 25, 2019
Show notes
Kurt Cobain was one of the most iconic rock stars of all time. A reluctant spokesperson for a generation, this boy from a broken home would change the face of rock music forever. After the raw energy, but moderate success of their debut Bleach, nobody could have predicted the world conquering phenomenon that was Nirvana's Nevermind. Its success would weigh heavily on Cobain. From fights with Axl Rose to his relationship with Courtney Love, Kurt's life was a whirlwind, with his music at the eye of the storm. Join Stephanie Okupniak, with the help of Nirvana's former manager Danny Goldberg, as we delve into the life of Kurt Cobain.
S1 Ep13: Harold Ramis
Nov 18, 2019
Show notes
Harold Ramis could do it all. Actor, comedian, director, writer. This Ghostbuster has had an undeniable influence on generations of comedians, comedy writers, actors and singers - a lasting legacy for a man who started off as a grocery bagger in his family's store in Chicago. Join Stephanie Okupniak as she gets to the heart of one of the industry's most beloved stars with the help of Harold's daughter Violet Ramis Stiel and co-star Ernie Hudson. We find out how Ramis went working in a psychiatric ward to becoming a proton pack wearing icon.
S1 Ep12: Alexander McQueen
Nov 11, 2019
Show notes
Alexander McQueen was one of the most striking, controversial and talented designers of his generation. But how did a taxi driver's son from Lewisham become a four-time 'British Designer of the Year' and attract the following of stars from Lady Gaga to Kate Moss. Join Stephanie Okupniak and authors Andrew Wilson and Dana Thomas to hear the story of the boy who swapped life in a council house for life in the biggest fashion houses in the world.
Our TOPPODCAST Picks 
Stay Connected
