Classic Conversations: Pop culture Interviews with Jeff Dwoskin

Latest Episodes:

Spiraling into Comedy with Leah Rudick Feb 12, 2024

Show notes

Multifaceted comedian and actress Leah Rudick gives us an insider's look at her comedic journey, the creation of her new comedy special "Spiraling," and her seamless dance between the worlds of acting and stand-up comedy. From her early days of overcoming shyness on stage to becoming a viral sensation on social media, Leah shares the milestones that have defined her unique path in the entertainment industry.

Early Beginnings: Leah recounts how stepping onto the stage in third grade transformed her from a shy kid into a confident performer, revealing the magic and power of live performance.
Creating "Spiraling": Leah delves into the intense preparation and personal stories behind her first hour-long comedy special, shot in a single, exhilarating show at El Portal Theatre in North Hollywood.
Viral Success: With a candid look into the impact of social media on her career, Leah discusses how platforms like TikTok and Instagram have amplified her reach and connected her with a global audience.
Acting vs. Comedy: Leah reflects on her dual identity as an actor and comedian, exploring how each discipline informs and enriches the other.
Collaborations and Future Projects: Insight into Leah's collaborations, including her work with her comedy duo and her aspirations for future projects in comedy and acting.

You're going to love my conversation with Leah Rudick

Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host):

Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter
The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter
Podcast website
Podcast on Instagram
Join my mailing list
Buy me a coffee (support the show)
Subscribe to my Youtube channel (watch Crossing the Streams!)
Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show
Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.

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Dinah Manoff's Real True Hollywood Story Feb 05, 2024

Show notes

Dinah Manoff, renowned for her roles in "Grease," "Empty Nest," and "Soap," shares her fascinating journey in Hollywood, reflecting on her diverse acting and directing career. Dinah also dives into her book "The Real True Hollywood Story of Jackie Gold."

The Hollywood Beginning: Dinah reflects on her upbringing in a star-studded family and how it shaped her career.
Iconic Roles: A look back at her memorable performances, including the sassy Marty Maraschino in "Grease."
Beyond the Screen: Insights into her roles on TV, particularly the hit sitcoms "Soap" and "Empty Nest."
The Director's Chair: Exploring Dinah's journey from acting to directing - the challenges and triumphs.
The Novel Venture: Deep dive into her book, "The Real True Hollywood Story of Jackie Gold" - the inspiration and process behind her writing.
Life Lessons: Dinah shares personal anecdotes and the wisdom she's gained through her diverse experiences.

You're going to love my conversation with Dinah Manoff

Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host):

Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter
The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter
Podcast website
Podcast on Instagram
Join my mailing list
Buy me a coffee (support the show)
Subscribe to my Youtube channel (watch Crossing the Streams!)
Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show
Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kathy Coleman on Life in and Beyond Land of the Lost Jan 29, 2024

Show notes

Kathy Coleman's journey is not just a tale of a television star but a narrative of resilience, nostalgia, and the enduring power of storytelling.

A Nostalgic Journey: Kathy opens up about the bond shared by the 70s kids, reflecting on the era's unique culture — from TV shows to music. Her insights offer a poignant look into a time of shared experiences and simpler joys.
The Essence of "Land of the Lost": Delving into her iconic role, Kathy reminisces about the making of "Land of the Lost," offering behind-the-scenes glimpses and her personal connections with the cast. She talks about the unique challenges and joys of working on this groundbreaking show.
From Auditions to Iconic Roles: Kathy shares the compelling story of her audition process for "Land of the Lost," giving us a peek into the world of 1970s Hollywood. She describes the momentous journey from audition to becoming a part of a show that has remained a pop culture staple.
Relationships Beyond the Screen: A heartwarming account of her relationships with co-stars, particularly Spencer Milligan (Rick Marshall) and the bond they formed. She fondly recalls how these relationships transcended the screen and became a significant part of her life.
A Career Beyond "Land of the Lost": Kathy discusses her diverse career, from commercials to working with notable names in the entertainment industry. Her experiences paint a vivid picture of the life of a child star in the 70s.
The Legacy and Influence: Reflecting on the lasting impact of "Land of the Lost," Kathy talks about the show's enduring legacy, its influence on pop culture, and the deep connections it forged with its audience.
About "Run, Holly, Run!" - Kathy Coleman's Memoir: In her memoir "Run, Holly, Run!," Kathy Coleman shares the vivid story of her life as "Holly" on "Land of the Lost" and beyond. This book offers an intimate glimpse into the making of a TV classic and Kathy's journey through fame, friendships, and challenges, revealing her life post-show.

You're going to love my conversation with Kathleen Coleman

Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host):

Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter
The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter
Podcast website
Podcast on Instagram
Join my mailing list
Buy me a coffee (support the show)
Subscribe to my Youtube channel (watch Crossing the Streams!)
Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show
Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Comedy Legends Unleashed - John DeBellis and Steve Mittleman Jan 22, 2024

Show notes

Dive into a whirlwind of laughter and nostalgia with two comedy powerhouses, John DeBellis and Steve Mittleman. This episode is a roller coaster of stories, from the early days of stand-up to unforgettable encounters with comedy legends.

Show Highlights:

The Dynamic Duo: Steve Mittleman and John DeBellis, friends since '76, share their journey from the improv stages to the big screens, sprinkled with their signature humor.
Comedy Club Chronicles: Get an insider's look into the golden era of comedy clubs. From auditions at Catch a Rising Star to unforgettable nights at the Improv, these legends have seen it all.
Larry David Unplugged: Laugh out loud with anecdotes about the quirky, real-life version of the "Curb Your Enthusiasm" mastermind, as our guests reveal the man behind the comedy.
Gilbert Gottfried's Thrifty Adventures: Discover the hilariously frugal world of Gilbert Gottfried through stories that are as bizarre as they are funny.
Rodney Dangerfield's Unique 'Respect': Hear how Rodney's offstage antics were just as comical as his on-stage persona, including dressing room shenanigans and his legendary generosity.
Writing for the Stars: John DeBellis spills the beans on his experiences writing for "Saturday Night Live" and working with comedy giants like Fred Willard.
Steve Mittleman's Extreme Makeover: Dive into Steve's transformational journey on "Extreme Makeover" and the unexpected fame that followed.

Why You Can't-Miss This Episode:

Ever wondered what comedians talk about when they get together? Here's your VIP pass!
A treasure trove of behind-the-scenes stories from the comedy world.
Hilarious anecdotes about some of the most iconic figures in comedy.
A deep dive into the lives and careers of two comedy legends who have shaped the genre.

This episode of "Classic Conversations" is more than just laughs; it's a heartfelt trip down memory lane, showcasing the camaraderie and pure joy that comedy brings into our lives. Join Jeff, Steve, and John as they take you on a journey through the heydays of stand-up comedy, filled with tales that are as endearing as they are hilarious.

You're going to love my conversation with John DeBellis and Steve Mittleman

Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host):

Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter
The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter
Podcast website
Podcast on Instagram
Join my mailing list
Buy me a coffee (support the show)
Subscribe to my Youtube channel (watch Crossing the Streams!)
Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show
Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Celebrating The Munsters with Butch Patrick Jan 15, 2024

Show notes

Dive into the nostalgic world of 60s television with Butch Patrick, the child star who won hearts as Eddie Munster. Butch shares how he landed this iconic role and the unique experiences on the set of "The Munsters." He also takes us through his adventurous journey in other shows like "Lidsville," and his life beyond the small screen. Join us for a celebration of classic TV, personal growth, and unexpected turns in the life of a beloved childhood star.

Show Highlights:

The Making of an Icon: Butch Patrick delves into his early career and how he landed the role of Eddie Munster.
Behind the Scenes of "The Munsters": Insightful stories about the cast, production, and the show's impact.
A Life Beyond the Camera: Exploring Butch's interests outside acting, including his passion for cars and comic cons.
Overcoming Challenges: Butch opens up about his battle with addiction and his journey towards recovery.
Keeping the Munster Spirit Alive: How Butch continues to engage with fans and preserve the legacy of the beloved show.
The Phantom Tollbooth and The Monkees: Butch speaks about his roles in these classic projects, sharing unique perspectives and memories.
An Encounter with Evil Knievel: A special story from Butch about his interaction with the famed stunt performer.

This episode not only takes listeners down memory lane but also offers an inspiring look at how a childhood star navigated the complexities of fame and personal challenges.

You're going to love my conversation with Butch Patrick

Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host):

Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter
The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter
Podcast website
Podcast on Instagram
Join my mailing list
Buy me a coffee (support the show)
Subscribe to my Youtube channel (watch Crossing the Streams!)
Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show
Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Deanne Smith's Comedic Journey Jan 08, 2024

Show notes

Deanne Smith, a comedian who started their career in the most unconventional ways. From teaching English in Mexico to discovering their comedic voice in Montreal, Deanne shares their journey with a blend of humor and honesty. This episode is not just about laughs; it's a deep dive into how political influences and life experiences shape a comedian's craft. Join us as Deanne opens up about the challenges and triumphs of being a comedian across different cultures.

Show Highlights:

A Unique Comedy Journey: Delving into the roots of their comedy career, Deanne reveals how they transitioned from teaching English in Mexico to embracing stand-up comedy in Montreal. This section provides a glimpse into the varied paths leading to a career in comedy.
Political Influences and Movements: Deanne discusses the role of political motivations in their moves across countries and offers a candid view of their understanding of democracy's reality.
Comedy Across Borders: The conversation takes a turn into exploring the comedy scenes in different countries. Deanne sheds light on the expectations and styles unique to Canada and Australia, providing insight into the global comedy landscape.
Embracing Public Failures and Successes: Listen to Deanne Smith's reflections on the nature of comedy, emphasizing the importance of audience reactions and the public nature of a comedian's journey, including both successes and failures.
Specials and Viral Hits: Deanne speaks about their specials, including "Gentleman Elf" on Netflix, and their album "Chiweenie and a Tank Top." The segment explores the process behind these works and their reception.
A Comedian's View on Money and Commerce: In a candid discussion, Deanne expresses their discomfort with the commercial aspects of comedy, revealing a personal perspective on the intersection of art and commerce.
Looking Back and Moving Forward: Reflecting on past projects like "The Adventures of Tiny Pineapple" and their thoughts on reviving their podcast, Deanne Smith gives listeners a peek into their creative process and future plans.

You're going to love my conversation with Deanne Smith

Website
Instagram
Twitter
Album: Chiweenie in a Tanktop
Video: The Adventures of Tiny Pineapple
Video: What women want
Watch on Netflix: Canda Comedians of the World (30 min special)

Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host):

Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter
The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter
Podcast website
Podcast on Instagram
Join my mailing list
Buy me a coffee (support the show)
Subscribe to my Youtube channel (watch Crossing the Streams!)
Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show
Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Comedian Rhonda Hansome Unplugged: A Life in Laughter Jan 01, 2024

Show notes

Dive into the vibrant life of Rhonda Hansome, a trailblazer in the world of stand-up comedy. Rhonda shares her unique journey from studying sociology to captivating audiences on stage. Discover how she broke into the comedy scene, navigated the challenges of a male-dominated industry, and found her voice. Rhonda reminisces about working with comedy legends, being on the first episode of Saturday Night Live and touring with iconic singers like Anita Baker. Her stories reveal the resilience and wit that define her career.

Show Highlights:

Early Influences and Career Start: Rhonda talks about her unique perspective growing up, her transition from sociology to performing arts, and the initial challenges she faced in acting roles.
A Journey with the Muppets: Rhonda recounts her fascinating experience being trained by Jim Henson and Frank Oz and performing on Saturday Night Live's first episode.
Transition to Stand-Up Comedy: Discover how Rhonda navigated the shift from puppetry and acting to stand-up comedy, eventually finding her true calling on the stage.
Touring with Icons: Rhonda reminisces about touring with Anita Baker and other legends like Aretha Franklin, sharing backstage stories and the thrill of live performance.
Navigating the Comedy Scene: Learn about Rhonda's experiences in the comedy clubs, networking challenges, and the evolution of her career in a male-dominated industry.
Life Beyond Stand-Up: Rhonda delves into her current projects, including political podcast writing, her involvement with Political Pod, and her passion for live comedy.
The Legacy of Comedy Legends: Rhonda pays homage to comedic icons like Joan Rivers and others who have inspired her journey.
Rhonda Hansome Today: Explore what keeps Rhonda driven and vibrant in today's entertainment world, from political cartoons to maintaining an active presence on social media.

You're going to love my conversation with Rhonda Hansome

Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host):

Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter
The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter
Podcast website
Podcast on Instagram
Join my mailing list
Buy me a coffee (support the show)
Subscribe to my Youtube channel (watch Crossing the Streams!)
Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show
Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Monique Reymond's Foley Artistry: The Hidden Symphony of Film and TV Dec 25, 2023

Show notes

Three-time Emmy Award winner, Monique Reymond shares her incredible journey as a Foley artist, giving us a peek behind the curtain of bringing sounds to life in film and television.

Show Highlights:

Monique's Introduction to Foley: Discover how Monique ventured into the unique world of Foley, creating sounds that bring movies and TV shows to life.
The Art of Sound Effects: Monique explains the intricate process of creating custom sound effects, from footsteps in a suspense scene to the crunch of stepping on a cockroach in "Fear Factor."
Challenges and Triumphs: Learn about the challenges faced in Foley, such as replicating specific sounds and working with different directors and sound mixers.
Inside the Foley Studio: Monique takes us inside her studio, revealing a fascinating array of props and techniques used to mimic real-life sounds.
Foley in Animation vs. Live Action: Monique compares her experiences in creating Foley for animated series like "Sponge Bob" and live-action projects like "Mad Men".
The Future of Foley: Insights into the evolving world of sound effects, the impact of technology on Foley artistry, and Monique's perspective on the industry's future.
Monique's Projects Beyond Foley: Learn about Channel 1111, Monique's initiative for creating conscious, uplifting entertainment.
A Game of 'F***, Marry, Kill': A light-hearted and entertaining segment where Monique shares details about her humorous FMK video series.
Late Breaking News - ARTranscends: The ART Initiative at Channel 1111: In a special announcement outside of the episode, Channel 1111 introduces ARTranscends, their pioneering ART Initiative. This project aims to create a virtual gallery showcasing artists from around the globe. Featured artworks will be included on merchandise, offering a blend of humanitarian impact, global exposure for artists, and innovative fashion choices that transcend conventional brands.

You're going to love my conversation with Monique Reymond

Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host):

Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter
The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter
Podcast website
Podcast on Instagram
Join my mailing list
Buy me a coffee (support the show)
Subscribe to my Youtube channel (watch Crossing the Streams!)
Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show
Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Secret Sauce: Unwrapping McDonald's Mysteries with Chef Mike Haracz Dec 18, 2023

Show notes

Chef Mike Haracz shares insider secrets and fascinating stories about his journey and the mysteries behind some of McDonald's most iconic items.

Show Highlights:

Chef's Origin: Tracing Chef Mike's path from his early culinary days to becoming a fast-food innovator.
The Leap to Innovation: Exploring his transition to R&D and the creation of new products for global brands.
Decoding the McRib: Unveiling the composition and allure of this legendary sandwich.
Fish and Beef Tales: Debunking myths about the ingredients in McDonald's fish and beef.
Menu Development: The intricate process behind bringing new items to the McDonald's menu.
Successes and Stumbles: A look at successful launches and products that didn't make the cut.
Culinary Creativity: Insights into the development of unique items like buttermilk crispy tenders.
A Cut Above the Rest: Discovering why McDonald's fries are a fast-food staple.
Menu Hacks: Tips from Chef Mike for a fresher, tailor-made McDonald's meal.
Catering to Preferences: How customer tastes shape McDonald's menu, with a focus on regional variations.
Solving the Ice Cream Machine Mystery: Chef Mike's take on operational hurdles, including the notorious ice cream machine issues.
The Business of Fast Food: Exploring menu creation, pricing, and marketing strategies in the fast-food realm.

Chef Mike's journey provides a unique lens into the complexities and excitement of the fast-food industry, blending culinary artistry with business acumen.

You're going to love my conversation with Chef Mike Haracz

Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host):

Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter
The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter
Podcast website
Podcast on Instagram
Join my mailing list
Buy me a coffee (support the show)
Subscribe to my Youtube channel (watch Crossing the Streams!)
Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show
Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Crossing the Streams Trusts No One (Bonus Ep84) – Great TV binge watching suggestions! Dec 14, 2023

Show notes

Need TV binge suggestions? You've come to the right place. We've got you covered.

In this bonus episode, we discuss a few of great binge suggestions:

Trust No One: The Hunt for the Crypto King (from live ep 96)
Violent Night (from live ep 100)
The Goldbergs (from live ep 94)

wsgs Mick Manhattan & Christine Blackburn

Crossing the Streams features discussions of TV shows and movies available on streaming services. It is hosted by Jeff Dwoskin and co-hosted by Howard Rosner, Ron Lippitt, Bob Philips, Marci Kozen Stifter, and Sal Demilio.

Special guests also join the show every week. Each episode features a segment in which the hosts recommend a TV show, movie, or documentary for listeners to consider binge-watching. The segments are taken from live recordings of the show.

Join us LIVE every Wednesday at 9:30 PM ET / 8:30 PM CT

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/CTSYouTubeSubscribe

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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