Welcome Brad Williams:

We’re joined on the Starline by an actor, standup comedian, entrepreneur, podcaster and most importantly dad. He’s out on his “Tall Tales Tour”. We welcome the very funny Brad Williams.

Brad, let’s go Beyond the Mic. You’ve done it all, acting, creating hot sauce, podcasting. How has laughing and comedy helped you?

You’ve been acting, did a little wrestling on the Jericho Cruise. What gives you joy?

How do you create your comedy? Is it from the punchline back or setup to the punchline?

When you’re out on tour, you let your wife Jasmine take care of everything else. How has the 10+ years together changed the way you laugh, love and enjoy life?

The Rockin' 8:

Out on his “Tall Tales Tour”, Comedian Brad Williams joins us for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure.

1. Best ride at Disneyland?

2. Favorite charity to support?

3. Last pro basketball game you enjoyed?

4. Best Halloween costume when you were younger?

5. Describe Carlos Mencia in 10 words or less?

6. Typical Waffle House order?

7. Favorite place to do a show?

8. What’s your favorite joke that someone else told?

The Back Half:

How has your daughter changed your life and the way you look at comedy?

When you’re out on the road, what’s the one thing from home you have to have with you?

You’ve launched a podcast with JB Ball, “Heightened Babble”. Why was podcasting important to you and how has it evolved your comedy?

Best and worst thing about JB Ball?

Who makes you laugh today?

Is there someone you’d like to do a set with or for that you haven’t done one yet?

What should people expect when they come see you?

One Dwarf Question:

How do you want people remembering you when your time on the earth is over?

Where can people find you online?

The Wrap:

Loved doing shows at the Comedy Works in Denver, Conan is his idol, and wants you to see him on his “Tall Tales Tour”. Brad Williams thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Henry Cho

We’re joined on the Starline by a comedian seen on “The Tonight Show”, “The Late, Late, Show” and co-creator of “The Henry Cho Show” on Great American Country. He traveling now on The Empty Nest tour. We welcome Henry Cho.

Henry, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Clean comedy is currently all the rage. Why did you think that being able to share stories cleanly is so important now?

How did your time in Tennessee help shape you as you were the first comedian in 50 years to be inducted into the Grand Ole Opry and an honorary member of Harvard’s National Lampoon?

What that mean to you when Vince inducted you?

The Rockin' 8:

Comedian Henry Cho joins us for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure.

1. Favorite ride at Dollywood?

2. Best theater you’ve ever worked at that wasn’t the Opry?

3. One chore your wife depends on you to do at home?

4. Last Tennessee football game you went to see in Knoxville?

5. Favorite country music star right now?

6. What’s the one food that you love that people would find strange?

7. Did you ever use a camera with film and what’s the last thing you took using it?

8. What’s your best golf score and where did you shoot it?

The Impossible Question:

How did John Mulrooney change your life?

All families have stories or legends passed down, most being oral narrations with embellishment, told at holidays or family gatherings. What story stands out most from your childhood that you had to share?

The Back Half:

Why do you love comedy so much?

So with so many of heroes who motivates you now?

What makes you laugh now?

What’s your dream place to play golf?

So what part of your game is your strongest?

Is there something you have to bring with you on tour from home that just makes you feel comfortable other than your golf clubs?

How many joke books have you gone through?

What makes touring easy or hard now?

Does touring help you with disagreements with your wife?

What do you want fans to take away from a night with you?

What’s the one story from the road that people wouldn’t believe happened, but it actually did.

One Big Question:

What would you give up to guarantee Alabama never winning another sporting event vs Tennessee ever again?

The Wrap:

He has over 90 composition books full of jokes and never ridden anything at Dollywood. He wants you to see The Empty Nest tour. Henry Cho thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

We’re joined on the Starline by an actor, singer and Broadway star. You’ve seen him in “Chicago”, “Hairspray” and now in the 2nd National tour of the Broadway version of “Mrs Doubtfire” playing Frank Hillard. We welcome Brian Kalinowski.

Brian, let’s go Beyond the Mic. You’ve said that singing and dancing is one thing but comedy hits different. What makes the comedy in this show punch?

You were on cruise ships for four years performing Hairspray. How did that time prepare you for the hustle and bustle of a national tour?

You’ve played the tinman in the “Wizard of Oz” and “The Music Man Singing Ice Cream Shoppe”. What makes Frank enjoyable for you?

Why are you frantic?

The Rockin' 8:

Time to throw you… Brian Kalinowski from the National Tour of “Mrs Doubtfire” joins us for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. No Pressure.

1. Favorite course as a Bulldog at DeSales University?

2. Cupcakes: Chocolate, Vanilla or Strawberry?

3. Favorite balloon animal to make?

4. Yes, No or Maybe: Do you have a specific beard care routine?

5. Best memory at St Elizabeth in Wilmington Delaware?

6. What did you do with the first Playbill from your first show is?

7. Favorite place to vacation?

8. Do you play any instruments?

The Back Half:

Everyone knows the movie and the powerhouse performance by Robin Williams. What makes the Broadway version different?

What’s the section of the show that your not in and it touches you?

Who is the powerhouse stars from this show cast that amazes you?

What was your first role when you were in the Wilmington Drama League when you were in grade school? Ensemble Aubrey Plaza

How was it when you are such a powerhouse ensemble?

Who influenced your love of music?

Who’s your favorite phantom?

You’ve won the 2022 MAC Award for your work as a piano bar / restaurant singer. The MAC awards celebrates the best of NYC nightlife. What did winning that award mean to you?

Do you know where your MAC award is right now?

Why does cabaret touch your soul?

Which is tougher, travelling with the show, or the downtime in between shows?

When you first got the call, who did you call first?

What characteristics make a powerhouse performer?

Who influences theatrically?

The Impossible Question:

How do you overcome the doubts that every performer has in the back of their mind?

More with Brian:

How have you overcome imposter syndrome and when did you know you made it?

When you’re out on the road, where’s the first place you need to find in a new town?

What’s your favorite coffee blend?

Who on the cast and crew are you the tightest with?

When a show is going on, how do you keep your focus?

1st Broadway show you ever saw live? Where?

How did performing in South Korea change the way you see performance?

What has been the biggest growth for you?

Who has helped you the most since you have started?

How has your parents and friends support helped push you forward?

When you see young people looking up to you?

How have you overcome adversity in your career becoming the best performer you can be?

Why have you been able to make your dreams come true?

What do you want people to take away from “Mrs. Doubtfire”?

How has the show changed you?

What’s the one thing you still you want improve?

One Big Question:

What is your dream role?

The Wrap:

Dad was in a polka band, hates the sounds of balloons popping and wants you to watch “Mrs. Doubtfire”. Brian Kalinowski thanks for talking with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Pete Ganbarg:

We’re joined on the Starline by a truly talented man. He’s done A&R, educator, music publishing, podcaster and serves as a board member for the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Season 5 of his podcast “Rock & Roll High School” is now out. We welcome Grammy award winner Pete Ganbarg.

Pete, let’s go Beyond the Mic. For season 5 of “Rock & Roll High School” you have gotten a who’s who of talent with Alice Cooper, Kevin Cronin, Darlene Love and aouch more. Why is it important for people, especially A&R staff to understand the roots of contemporary music?

You’re sharing the stories of contemporary music via the artists own words. Which episode revealed something that even shocked you?

Who is the most underrated songwriter of all time?

What was the first album you bought and how did it change your life?

The Rockin' 8:

Host of “Rock & Roll High School” Pete Ganbarg joins us for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. No Pressure.

1. Last Broadway show you saw live?

2. Who would you want to sing a song you’ve written?

3. Do you know where your first Grammy is right now?

4. Best place to go on vacation?

5. What was the name of your show on WESU?

6. Best New York Mets game you’ve ever seen live?

7. What was the best home cooked meal from growing up, and who made it?

8. Best thing about being a girl dad to Peri and Julia?

The Impossible Question:

Who is on your Mount Rushmore of Songwriters?

The Back Half:

Host of “Rock & Roll High School” podcast Pete Ganbarg joins us for the Back Half.

How has streaming and social media made finding artists easier and yet harder for A&R reps?

In 90’s country once you had one hat act, everyone was searching for a hat act. Once LeAnn Rimes came out, you had Lila McCann and Jessica Andrews. As music has evolved, how have trends kept up?

What was the first concert you saw live?

As you have these conversations with stars such as Warren Haynes, Clive Davis, Peter Frampton and more, how important is it for you capturing their stories before they are gone?

What’s the one overarching thing you want people to take away from Rock & Roll High School?

Who in music business now has the “it factor”, I’m not talking about artists but about behind the scenes?

Why are those invisible people behind the scene sometimes more important in the industry?

Most underappreciated artist in your opinion?

How hard is it to pick for the Songwriters Hall of Fame?

How many members do you put out on the ballot?

Who’s your dream guest for “Rock & Roll High School” podcast.

Your artists have sold a combined 100 million + units. Who’s the star who has a special place in your heart?

How has the music industry declined since the shift of streaming and the loss of revenue for artists?

One Big Question:

Pete, how do you see the future of music with Suno and other AI changing the reality of “is it real or is it not”?

How has this podcast changed you?

Where can people listen to Rock & Roll High School and find you online?

The Wrap:

His favorite Mets game was game 6 of the ‘86 World Series, misses mom’s meatloaf and wants you to hear “Rock & Roll High School” podcast. Pete Ganbarg, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Evan Nikolas Fields:

We’re joined on the Starline by an up and coming actor. You’ve seen him in “He’s All that”, “Hacks”, “George & Mandy’s First Marriage” and “Game Shakers”. His latest project is the sci-fi adventure “The Wayfinders” on Angel Studios. We welcome Evan Nikolas Fields.

Evan, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Like your character Flynn Griffin, you’ve been hiding in plain sight. How did the character Flynn give you the opportunity to shine?

Who are you closer to in real life, Big Chonkas or Flynn?

Playstation / xbox?

When reading the script how did your opinions of the word loyalty change or evolve?

Other than your family and agents, who do you trust the most right now?

How did the bond with Tamara and Vincent grow as you shot season 1?

What was the best part of the trip?

The Rockin' 8:

Evan Nikolas Fields from “The Wayfinders” on Angel Studios joins us for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure.

1. When on set, what’s the one thing at craft services when shooting in Ireland that you loved to eat?

2. What is your secret dish to cook that you are better than everyone making?

3. How many energy drinks do you drink in a day?

4. Who has better hair, you or your mom?

5. How many Scooby-Doo episodes have you seen in your life?

6. If you weren’t an actor, what skill would you like to have as a fall back option?

7. Last movie you’ve seen?

8. Apple or Android?

The Back Half:

All of these main characters fight conflicts of what they want and what they need. How has acting feel like this fight all over again?

First Broadway show you saw live?

How has beauty of Ireland change the way you see L.A.

Tell me about reading for the role and the nerves of that day?

Who was the 1st person you called to say you got it?

What did Sammy say when you got the role?

How did being a student all over again in those first episode all over again?

The Impossible Question:

How has overcoming fear helped you become a better actor?

“You better face reality, ‘Because reality is so great’” How has the way you see the art of making a series and Hollywood differently now?

What made working with Angel Studios and your cast and crew better than any other experience you’ve had other than being in Ireland?

What do you want people to take away from “The Wayfinders”?

Which thing do you want them to take away from T’s character? Vincent’s character and definitely your character?

How has your trust in yourself grown?

Best story growing up with your nana that changed you forever?

How difficult is it when your show has so many digital effects and you have to look at a stick with a dot on it?

What’s the one tip you would give someone who is just starting out acting to help them not give up?

How has your motivations as an actor changed from when you first started?

Why has overcoming adversity and all the nos to finally getting the yes with “The Wayfinders”?

How was working with Glen Winter, your director, different than any other director you’ve worked with?

What would you like, if you could write it, in the future for Flynn and “The Wayfinders”?

One Big Question:

We all have dreams for success and happiness in life. How has this series changed the way you see your own success and future?

The Wrap:

Shot his audition in the bathroom in Hawaii, his nana had a pet squirrel named Bobo and wants you to watch “The Wayfinders” on Angel Studios. Evan Nikolas Fields thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Dax Devlon-Ross:

We’re joined on the Starline by a friend we’ve had Beyond the Mic before for his project “The Burden”. He’s a storyteller, strategist, speaker, social entrepreneur and most important, husband and dad. His latest project is the podcast “Crying Wolf”. We welcome back Dax Devlon-Ross.

Dax, let’s return Beyond the Mic. What made Lee Harris’ story so powerful?

Was Robert’s effort to free his friend, helpful for him?

What’s the one fact from this case that haunts you?

The Rockin' 8:

Dax Devlon-Ross host of “Crying Wolf” joins us for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure.

1. Best tequila is what kind?

2. What’s the one thing your kids try and convince you to do but fail?

3. Which of your kids stays up the longest now?

4. In ten words or less, what was the power of the first men’s retreat you led?

5. Which course at GW Law School was the one you struggled with the most?

6. Who is the person that makes you be a better man every day?

7. Strawberry or grape jelly?

8. Musician or singer that touches your heart and soul?

Sneaking in A One More:

As you look at all these cases of miscarriages of justice. How does that wear on you?

Two Impossible Questions:

Can the alleged deep-seated corruption that plagues Chicago ever be cleaned?

Dax, what would consider justice for Richard Zuley’s actions?

The Wrap:

He thinks grape jelly tastes fake now, has trouble getting his energetic six year old to sleep and wants you to hear “Crying Wolf”. Dax Devlon-Ross my friend, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Janet McTeer:

We’re joined on the Starline by a Tony, Golden Globe and Drama Desk Award winner. You’ve seen her in Mobland, Ozark and Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning. Now starring in “The Artist” on The Network. We welcome Janet McTeer.

Good Morning Janet, let’s go Beyond the Mic. “This is not a tale of murder. This is a story of rebirth.” “The Artist” has a cast of stars. Mandy Patinkin, Ever Anderson, Hank Azaria, Katherine McPhee, Patti LuPone, Clark Gregg among others. How was portraying a character in this scorched earth Gilded Age murder mystery interesting for you?

Streaming networks have taking the lead on stories that normal networks have ignored. Why is stories like this fascinating to tell?

The Rockin' 8:

Janet McTeer from “The Artist” joins us Beyond the Mic for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure.

1. Life would be sad if you couldn’t see plays. Which Broadway play is your favorite now?

2. Do you know where in your house your Tony Award is right now?

3. Favorite theater to perform a play of all time?

4. Best place to see the leaves in Maine?

5. Which character you have portrayed is your favorite?

6. Who would you have loved to share the screen or stage for one scene but haven’t yet?

7. YES, NO or Maybe: Are you any good at playing pool?

8. Favorite thing to grow in your garden?

Sneaking in One More:

You cherish your life, work and privacy. Why was this work important to promote?

One Big Question:

You have portrayed such powerful characters like Kat McAllister, Marian Henry, Nora Helmer and soon Minerva McGonagall. How do these characters fuel you?

The Wrap:

She loves growing Cosmos, her Tony is in the top shelf of her kitchen and she wants you to watch “The Artist” on The Network Janet McTeer, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Michael John Wagner:

We’re joined on the Starline by a singer-songwriter and actor. You’ve heard his work on “America’s Next Top Model” , “Friends with Benefits” and seen in “The Fourth Alice” He went from his extensive European and Summer tour to now touring with the number one ABBA tribute show “Mania: The ABBA Tribute” as Bjorn. We welcome Michael Wagner.

Michael, let’s go Beyond the Mic. In “Mania” you speak with a Swedish accent. How long did it take you to perfect that?

You’ve sang your own Alternative and R&B music, but now you’re back to the 70’s. Why is Abba music still loved so much even today?

“Mania” is full production with all the bells, whistles, costumes, lighting etc from one of ABBA’s biggest concerts. Which is your favorite song from the show?

How has this tour change the way you see ABBA?

The Rockin' 8:

Michael Wagner from “Mania: The ABBA Tribute” joins us Beyond the Mic for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure.

1. Yes, No or Maybe: Have you ever counted how many sequins are in your outfit? Have you ever thought about it?

2. Best class at the Pittsburgh Creative and Performing Arts School?

3. Go to order when you visit Primanti Bros at home?

4. Favorite theater you’ve visited so far on the road?

5. What’s your must have roadside truck stop snack?

6. First guitar you ever owned was what and do you still have it?

7. Biggest fish you ever caught was what and where?

8. Last Steelers game you went to see live was where and against who?

The Impossible Question:

What was the one piece of advice your late Pap John gave you when you started your musical journey?

The Back Half:

Best thing about your friend and “Mania” cohort Melissa Harding?

You’ve been on the road with your own tour. How is touring with “Mania” different?

What’s your routine from getting from one stage to the next?

Best Playstation game? Assassin Creed’s games

How has this tour changed the way you love music?

What’s the funniest story from the “Mania” tour so far?

Who inspires you on your musical path?

How has your parents and friends support your path?

What do you want people to take away from “Mania”?

One Big Question:

You’ve experienced wildfires, quakes and the joys and heartaches of music. What makes the joy of a fan connecting with you as you perform changed you?

You’ve seen him in a Cinemark movie preshow, now you can enjoy him in “Mania”!

The Wrap:

He was a ball boy for the Steelers, had a manager sell his 1st guitar and wants you to see “Mania: The ABBA Tribute”. Michael John Wagner, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Vondie Curtis Hall:

We’re joined on the Starline by an actor and director. You’ve seen him in “Chicago Hope”, “Daredevil” and my personal favorite “The Recruit”. His latest movie is “Sheepdog”. We welcome Vondie Curtis Hall.

Vondie, let’s go Beyond the Mic. You’ve performed on Broadway, acted in soaps and directed TV and movies. Why was this role so interesting for you?

“My pain is relative, son. Sometimes we got to fall apart to find ourselves all over again” How did you relate to Whitney St. Germain?

Vondie, what do you want people to take away from this powerful movie?

The Rockin' 8:

Vondie Curtis Hall from “Sheepdog” joins us Beyond the Mic for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure.

1. Most underappreciated role you’ve ever done?

2. The actress that impresses you today?

3. First name of the student who last impressed you at the Tisch School of the Arts?

4. Last Broadway show you saw life was what?

5. When you first started acting, what did you mom and dad want you to do as a fallback career?

6. Favorite class at Juilliard?

7. One chore your wife depends on you to do around the house?

8. What was your favorite meal by your mom growing up?

Sneaking in A Couple More:

“There’s always light at the end of the tunnel if you push to make it through”. What are your wishes for veterans who struggle every day?

What was it like working with this amazing cast?

One Big Question:

Vondie Curtis Hall from “Sheepdog” joins us for One Big Question. How has sharing your talents with the world given you happiness?

The Wrap:

He’s in charge of the garbage, was almost a construction worker and wants you to watch the powerful movie “Sheepdog”. Vondie Curtis Hall, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Connor Sullivan:

We’re joined on the Starline by an actor, singer and creative. He’s currently touring as August in the first national tour of Water for Elephants. We welcome Connor Sullivan.

Connor, let’s go Beyond the Mic. You’ve played Flynn Rider in “Tangled: The Musical” and Billy Flynn in “Chicago”. What made August such a challenging role for you?

What makes the complexity so difficult to display?

If someone hasn’t seen Water for Elephants, or read the book, what can you tell us about the show?

Connor, you’ve done Film, TV, Regional Theater as well as work on the Disney Cruise Line. How does this tour make you feel especially being such a new show?

The Rockin' 8:

Connor Sullivan from Water for Elephants joins us for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure.

1. Favorite song from your acapella group Tonal?

2. Best part of being 6’6” and playing Ultimate Frisbee?

3. Favorite Disney movie?

4. Typical workout on the road?

Instant Followup: How much can you bench?

5. Sunrises or sunsets?

6. YES/NO/Maybe: Do you think the Loch Ness Monster is real?

7. Growing up what was the subject you disliked while you were homeschooled?

8. Which musical that you haven’t performed in is your favorite?

The Impossible Question:

If you could fix one thing in the world, but you’d lose your voice forever, what would you fix?

The Back Half:

Best article you wrote for the Viterbo Lumen?

Which is harder, modeling or Broadway?

What is your typical vocal warmup?

Tell me about routine on the road from leaving the stage to the next stage.

How many journals do you have?

Who is the person that you depend on from the cast when you are away from friends and family?

How does the downtimes between shows change you?

What are your hobbies you have?

Favorite thing to bake?

Who inspires you on Broadway now?

Go Deeper with Connor Sullivan Beyond the Mic:

What’s your Broadway dream role?

What was the first Broadway show you saw live and how did it change your life?

What lit that fire, what motivated you?

You talk about inspiration, why is important to inspire the future?

Connor, who is your hero in the business and who pushes you today?

One tip your professor Karla Hughes gave you that helps you today?

On the Road:

When you get to a new town, what’s the one thing you have to find?

When you get to a town you’ve been before do you go to the same spots or do you explore?

Best memory from the road from “Chicago” to “Water for Elephants”?

Connor, how has the tour changed you?

Since you’re going to be on this tour for a long time, how do you feather the gas?

What do you see in your future?

Two Big Questions:

What’s the power of acting and storytelling for you and how do you want people viewing your work on stage?

The Wrap:

Geometry turned him to the arts, loves Aladdin and wants you to see Water for Elephants National Tour Now. Connor Sullivan, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Neal McCoy:

We’re joined on the Starline by singer, songwriter, a two-time Entertainer of the Year, multi-gold and platinum selling country music star. We welcome the pride of Jacksonville Texas, Neal McCoy.

Neal, let’s go Beyond the Mic. On January 7th you’ll have said the Pledge of Allegiance every day for ten years on social media. Why did this start?

How does it feel saying it?

You’ve partnered with Allied Flags for the Neal McCoy limited edition flag. How did this idea come together?

You’ve been on many USO tours around the world. Why is entertaining our troops so important for you?

And you’d go again in a heartbreak?

The Rockin' 8:

Neal McCoy joins us Beyond the Mic and it’s time for the Rockin’ 8. 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure.

1. For 45 years your wife Melinda has been the light of your life. When did you know she was the one?

2. Once you’ve reached a goal, what’s the first thing you do: celebrate or set a new goal?

3. You’ve toured all around the world, where is the most underappreciated place to play?

4. YES, NO or MAYBE: You’re happy with the current state of country music?

5. Favorite thing about rain?

6. Best place in Longview to get a bite to eat?

7. What was your first guitar growing up and do you still have it?

8. How has the East Texas Angel Network changed your life?

The Impossible Question:

You could make one change to the world, but would lose your voice forever, what change would you make?

Sneaking in a Couple:

You’re being honored with the Spirit of Texas award during the 2026 Cowboy Hall of Fame Induction ceremony this year. What does this honor mean to you?

Patriotism rose after 9/11 after it had been fading. Why is it important for people to be, in the words of fellow artist Lee Greenwood, proud to be an American today?

Is there something from home when you were touring that you had to have on the road?

Which country music personality doesn’t get the respect you thought they deserved?

How do you see country music right now and who gives you hope for the future of the genre?

One Big Question:

What is your best memory from your time with Charley Pride?

The Wrap:

He loves Papacitas in Longview, hates playing the guitar and wants you to get the Neal McCoy American Flag. Where can people find it?

Neal thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Jonathan Goldstein:

We’re joined on the Starline by an author, humorist, radio producer and podcaster. You’ve heard his work on “Road Dot Trip”, “This American Life” and the #1 podcast “Heavyweight”. We welcome Jonathan Goldstein.

Jonathan, let’s go Beyond the Mic. What makes road trips, reunions and difficult conversations so perfect for “Heavyweight”?

How has the rebirth of “Heavyweight” changed the way you appreciate your listeners, producers and podcasting as a whole?

You once said "My feeling is that this business of offering a glimpse behind the curtain can be used to create a more personal and intimate radio. Or not." Why is vulnerable conversations important?

The Rockin' 8:

Jonathan Goldstein from the “Heavyweight” podcast joins us Beyond the Mic. It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Favorite album of all time?

2. If you hadn’t been able to get Heavyweight back up and running again, would you have fallen back to telemarketing?

3. What’s the one question you wished you could have asked Lenny Bruce?

4. Which character in Casablanca do you relate to the most?

5. Best memory at Concordia?

6. Nearsighted or farsighted?

7. The name of the story that melted your heart forever?

8. What was your worst haircut or style?

The Back Half:

Who helps guide making Heavyweight so special?

What do you want people taking away from each episode?

Which struggle is the one you are the one you face?

The Impossible Question:

If you could tell the story of one person, and everyone in the world would listen it who’s the story of?

Who would star in the movie of your life?

The Wrap:

Loves sitting in the book stacks at Concordia, thinks Paul Giamatti would play him in the movie of his life and wants you to listen to the powerful podcast “Heavyweight” Jonathan Goldstein, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Victoria Monét

We’re joined on the Starline by a trailblazing singer, songwriter, producer and now children’s book author. She’s a Grammy-award winner including 2024 Best New Artist, Best R&B Album. Her book is “Everywhere You Are”. We welcome Victoria Monét.

Victoria, let’s go Beyond the Mic. The goal of this book is combating separation anxiety in children and parental guilt. How did your own fight balancing time as a mom and your daughter Hazel influence the book?

What was Hazel’s reaction when you read her the book first?

“I promise to protect you, whether I’m near or far”. Did writing this book allow you to cement the love you have with your daughter forever?

How has writing this book changed you?

The Rockin' 8:

Grammy-award winner Victoria Monét joins us Beyond the Mic. It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Best beach you’ve ever visited?

2. One thing you want Hazel to take away from your life?

3. Favorite place to visit in Sacramento?

4. Do you remember your 1st headlining show in LA and what was the 1st song you sang at the El Rey?

5. Best memory of your choreographer friend Wendy Lee?

6. If you could be any animal other than a jaguar, what would it be?

7. Most weight you have ever lifted?

8. If you could sing a song with anyone who is no longer alive, who would have been your dream duet?

Sneaking in A Couple More:

Could we be seeing new music soon?

Who influences you in the music scene today?

One Big Question:

How has music changed the way the way you see yourself from being a Sheldon Huskie to today?

Will there be a follow up book?

What’s the power of your daughter?

The Wrap:

She hip thrusted 435 pounds, loves visiting mom whenever she can and wants you to read her new children’s book “Everywhere You Are”. Victoria Monét thanks for taking the time to talk with us.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Bailey Chase:

We’re joined on the Starline by an actor, producer and most importantly husband and dad. You’ve seen him in “Longmire”, “Saving Grace” as a member of the Duke Football team and now in the drama thriller “Homestead”. We welcome Bailey Chase.

Bailey, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Your career has been filled with complex, rugged characters. What makes playing Jeff Eriksson different?

Jeff is protecting his family. What would you do to protect yours?

We don’t call this Beyond the Mic for nothing brother. The world is a different place today. Angrier, and divisive. Why was it important to take this role and humanize a character who faces severe moral challenges?

How has your onscreen family benefited from the love you have from your own family?

Neal McDonough, Dawn Olivieri, Jesse Hutch. Plenty of heavy hitters. Which member of the cast that I didn’t mention has a special place in your heart?

The Rockin' 8:

Bailey Chase from “Homestead” joins us Beyond the Mic. It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure.

1. Best thing about being a dad?

Instant Follow Up: Who plays good cop bad cop between you and your wife

2. What is the worst club in your golf bag?

3. As a former linebacker, what’s your thoughts on Texas Tech’s Jacob Rodriguez and the Heisman Trophy?

4. Best type of tacos have what in them?

5. Favorite Christmas tradition?

6. What is the one quirk about you that people notice?

7. One chore your wife Amy depends on YOU to tackle?

8. If you were a flavor, what flavor would you be?

The Impossible Question:

What one tip would you give yourself 30 years ago before you did your first roles in “Hot Line” and “Baywatch”?

The Back Half:

“Homestead” is about surviving an apocalyptic event. How prepared are you for one today?

What’s the thing you learned from the experience shooting “Homestead”?

How has fighting to the top made it worth it for you as a mentor?

What’s the one behind the scenes experience from “Homestead” that looking back you appreciate more?

What’s the one thing about Neal McDonough that you have noticed that made you a better actor?

Deeper Beyond the Mic with Bailey Chase:

You push through everything through your faith. How has having discussions on homesteading changed the way you see community?

You’ve been hustling for 20 years in L.A. What made it worth it? What made it not worth it?

You’ve had incredible highs, and lows in your life. Successes in acting while recovering from that hurricane in North Carolina. How has the adversity you’ve faced made you stronger for the challenges and the joys you have today?

Why has the strength of your family growing up helped you be a better man today?

How has your industry changed for the better and worse today?

What were your workouts like getting prepared for this role? You can’t fake being a Green Beret.

Who is the one person you depend on the most, not family, that you could call on right now if you had a moral crisis?

You’ve had cowboy roles from “Far Haven” to “Longmire” now with “Homestead” you’re not wearing the cowboy hat. Do you miss it?

Favorite Clint Eastwood movie?

Do you still have a hat from either “Far Haven” or “Longmire”

Motivations:

What one thing, that isn’t family, motivates you now?

What do your fans mean to you?

If you could have Jeff experience something in “Homestead”, what would you want him to experience?

If you could find out one thing from ten years in the future today, what would you want to know? Why?

Would you be happy if “Homestead” is still on the air in 10 years?

One Big Question:

Everyone has dreams, how has yours evolved and what’s yours now?

Do you believe your best acting is still yet to come? How does that mak

The Wrap:

His worst club in his golf bag is a 4 iron, still has his hat from Longmire and wants you to see “Homestead” on Angel. Bailey Chase, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Chris Woolsey:

We’re joined on the Starline by a man who has worked for Crackle, Redbox, Vizio and is the King of Streaming. His latest project is consumer evangelist for Angel Studios let’s go Binge Watching with our friend Chris Woolsey welcome back!

You are so kind, Chris, let’s go Binge Watching Beyond the Mic. Angel Studios has been stirring things up since the pandemic. How has the pay it forward model help allow better products to get to consumers?

Resiliency has been the cornerstone of Angel. How do you see the future of entertainment with studios like Angel leading the way?

How hard or easy it for filmmakers getting projects funded?

You’ve been everywhere in Hollywood, why is filmmaking so difficult to day?

Angel has had incredible successes and some failures…

Fast Four

Chris Woolsey returns for binge watching but first it’s time for the Fast 4, 4 choices you have to make, just trust your first instinct Chris, there is no Pressure.

1. Ham or Turkey?

2. Sourdough Rolls or Croissants?

3. Pumpkin or pecan pie?

4. Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes?

The Back Half:

As you are the King of Streaming let’s start binge watching with “Homestead: The Series”. Tell us about it and why you love it so much?

“Dry Bar Comedy” has allowed clean comedy sets to be performed by newer comedians. How does that make you feel where you don’t have to be dirty to be funny?

Would you ever dust off your comedic stool, if “Dry Bar Comedy” would have you?

What else are you excited about this month?

Who are the names of stars of the future from Angel?

You have movies coming out, how can people find Angel Studios?

How has Angel changed the way you see the streaming world?

Have your new bosses figured out what you do yet?

The Impossible Question:

You’re at a holiday table with three other people, one fictional, one historical and one current. They can’t be related to you. Who are you having dinner with?

The Wrap:

His ideal holiday meal is ham with sourdough rolls, and a pumpkin pie with pecan streusel, would invite Ben Franklin. He wants you to binge watch shows with Angel Studios.

And that my friends is Binge Watching Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Dayna:

We’re joined on the Starline by a trend expert with more than a decade of experience finding the latest and impressive styles out there. You’ve seen her on NBC’s “Making It” and returning to take over #7 in most appearances on Beyond the Mic, it’s our friend Dayna Isom Johnson.

Dayna, let’s go Beyond the Mic. We’ve talked before, during and after a pandemic. You’ve seen styles change on a sometimes weekly basis. How has style for this holiday season evolved in the last six months?

Patina Blue and Washed Linen are the color and texture for 2026, but if you can’t find them, what are some of the still hot colors and textures right now?

What was the lessons you took away from your time on YouTube’s “Instant Influencer”

Current favorite gift from Etsy right now?

The Rockin' 8:

Dayna Isom Johnson from Etsy joins us Beyond the Mic. You’ve been here, you know it’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure.

1. Best thing about son Ozzie?

2. Last time you had your signature drink, the Harlem Kiss? Was it at the Poe Museum?

3. One chore you depend on your husband Ryan to do?

4. The best Beyonce song is obviously?

5. Favorite yoga pose?

6. Which is the best Christmas cookie?

7. Best memory at the Fashion Institute of Technology?

8. The best spice is obviously?

Sneaking in A Couple More:

What are the gifts we need to be looking at for our sons and daughters this year?

How about for the impossible to shop for aka my wife?

Which trend surprised you in 2025?

What’s the trend people should watch out for in 2026?

The Impossible Question:

You’ve adapted and allowed. But how has this last year as a mom allowed you to grow as a communicator for the 5.4 million small business owners you represent?

One Big Question:

What’s the perfect gift you would like to receive this year?

The Wrap:

Dayna Isom Johnson loves a Harlem Kiss, depends on her husband to do the laundry and wants you to check out her out at daynaisomjohnson.com and at ETSY. Dayna, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today!

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Duane Betts:

We’re joined on the Starline by a singer, songwriter and guitarist. Out on the road with the Ninth Annual Allman Betts Family Revival Tour we welcome Duane Betts.

Duane, let’s go Beyond the Mic. When people see the Allman Betts Family Revival, what do you want them to experience?

Why has working with Devon such been a blessing for you?

"It’s a magical feeling being alive. There’s darkness but there is so much beauty in this big world. Nature never disappoints. It’s never wrong. It just is…. And that’s enough for me." How has the way you see the world change these last couple of years without your dad?

How did your dad help your love of music?

The Rockin' 8:

Duane Betts from Ninth Annual Allman Betts Family Revival Tour. It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure.

1. Ever a member of Colombia House Music Club?

2. Favorite album that isn’t yours or your dads?

3. Best thing about a dog?

4. Favorite concert you went to as a fan?

5. Best place to play a show at?

6. First guitar you ever played and who gave it to you?

7. Who is the one person you would love to play a show with? 

8. How do you drink your coffee?

The Back Half:

You’ve finally released your solo album “Wild & Precious Life” and have been a guitar picker for hire. Why was a solo project important for you?

How comfortable was working in the recording studio and what did you take away from it?

Who inspires you musically currently?

Who doesn’t get the credit you think they deserve?

What’s the one funny moment from the tour?

One Big Question:

How has your sobriety changed the way you see your music?

The Impossible Question:

If you could recreate one moment again with your late dad, what would it be?

The Wrap:

He originally a drummer, loves Smashing Pumpkins and wants you to experience the Ninth Annual Allman Betts Family Revival Tour. Duane Betts thanks for taking the time to talk with us today!

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Jefferson White

We’re joined on the Starline by an actor and producer. You’ve seen him on “Chicago P.D.”, “Eileen”, “Civil War” and might have acted with a cowboy hat here and there. His latest movie is “Drink and Be Merry”. We welcome Jefferson White.

Jefferson, let’s go Beyond the Mic. You’ve said “All films are a labor of love. This one is very special to me.” How long did it take your friends asking before you said yes?

“You’re in the business of misery my friend.” What made Chet different?

How many bars have you been in where you’ve seen the type of regulars like in “Drink and Be Merry”?

The Rockin' 8:

Jefferson White from ““Drink and Be Merry” joins us Beyond the Mic and it’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure.

1. Does it hurt not seeing Iowa State in the Big 12 football championship?

2. Best thing about Mount Vernon?

3. One thing your wife Casey depends on you to do?

4. Favorite thing for you to photograph?

Instant Followup: First camera you got and do you still have it?

5. Longest hike you’ve been on was how long?

6. Would you rather live in Brooklyn, Iowa or Yellowstone?

7. What was harder: riding a horse, holding the semen collector or pouring out fake booze?

8. Best thing in Guthrie Texas?

One Big Question:

What’s the one thing that people don’t know about you but they would be surprised by?

The Wrap:

He wrecked his rental car in Guthrie, loves his Nikon F10 and wants you to see “Drink and Be Merry”

Jefferson White, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome David Gura:

We’re joined on the Starline by an award winning journalist. You’ve seen his work on NBC News, MSNBC and now tackles everything on what’s shaping the world’s economies as co-host of “The Big Take Daily” with Bloomberg. We welcome David Gura.

David, let’s go Beyond the Mic. "The Big Take Daily" has tackled everything from AI and the boom of Doodles to Biotech Power race and China. How does this podcast challenge you on a daily basis?

Which episode recently was one that you found specifically interesting?

David, was there one story that someone pitched that you weren’t sure of but the final result completely changed your mind?

How has your work on “The Big Take Daily” changed you as a journalist?

The Rockin' 8:

David Gura wants you to listen to “The Big Take Daily” podcast and he joins us Beyond the Mic. It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure.

1. Last baseball game you attended was where with which two teams playing?

2. Favorite performer at the Telluride Bluegrass festival?

3. Your first fiddle was what and do you still have it?

4. Favorite type of beer is a lager, ale, pilsner, porter or what?

5. Do you know where your Martha’s Vineyard 2nd prize ribbon for baking bread is right now?

6. Longest run you ever did was where and do you remember your time?

7. Do you remember your first article at The Cornell Daily Sun?  

8. Best memory as an intern for NPR’s “All Things Considered”?

Sneaking in A Couple More:

What’s the one thing young journalists need to do in your opinion?

Is there one story that people aren’t talking about that they really should?

What is the key moment coming up for the future of the world?

One Big Question:

Who is the one person not related to you who influenced you as a journalist and you hope you make proud every day?

The Wrap:

His dad gave him his first fiddle, love’s a delicious IPA and was almost a cartoonist. David Gura wants you to listen to “The Big Take Daily” podcast. David thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Sherman Augustus:

We’re joined on the Starline by a son, dad, director, musician, producer, former football player, Taekwondo black belt and does some acting on the side. His latest role is Lt. Colonel Jack Sullivan in “Stranger Things”. We welcome Sherman Augustus.

Sherman, let’s go Beyond the Mic. This cast is a who’s who of stars. What made this role one you loved from the get go?

Your character is on the hunt for Eleven / Jane. How has working with Millie Bobby Brown and the rest of this cast special for you?

You’ve portrayed characters in “Dexter”, the “NCIS” world and even “Murder, She Wrote”. Has this role soothed your recurring acting itch, or is there another future role we will be talking about soon?

The Rockin' 8:

Sherman Augustus from “Stranger Things” joins us for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure.

1. Do you prefer a joint lock or a choke hold?

2. Which role from your past is the one you loved other then Jack?

3. Which character of your “Daughter of Django” graphic novel was your favorite?

4. When on a plane do you prefer a window, aisle or middle seat?

5. Where is your place in the desert that gives you peace?

6. What was your dream car growing up?

7. Did anything find its way to your home from either the Into the Badlands or Stranger Things set?

8. Yes, No or Maybe: Have you ever talked about Fight Club?

One Big Question:

How did the way you see your character in “Stranger Things” change from audition to now?

The Wrap:

He loves Joshua Tree, choke holds and wants you to watch Season 5 of Stranger Things. Sherman Augustus thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Bill Connelly:

We’re joined on the Starline by an ESPN writer, podcaster, nerd and author of three books. His latest one is on college football’s shifting landscape and exploding influence in “Forward Progress: The Definitive Guide to the Future of College Football”. We welcome Bill Connelly.

Bill, let’s go Beyond the Mic. The future of college football is in the hands of the College Sports Commission. Texas Tech’s Cody Campbell wants order and protections for the chaos of college sports. Is there one thing that you agree with Cody Campbell and one you disagree with?

One of my favorite mentions from your “Podcast Ain’t Played Nobody”, is “This sport hates usurpers”. Which is the bigger usurper right now, the SEC, the Big 10 or the college football playoff committee?

You had the Red Raiders at 3rd in the opening SP+ ratings of the Big 12 at the beginning of the season, what changed?

The worst kept secret in college football was teams have been paying for players for a while. Why is Texas Tech getting the bad rap for attacking the portal like they did last year while Indiana and Ohio State did the same?

Don’t hate the player. Hate the game, in your book you discuss NIL fatigue “The NCAA just had to accept it. So did boosters: booster fatigue, stemming from programs asking the same rich donors for a little more and a little more, over and over, has quickly become an issue for a lot of schools”. At what point was NIL gone from the kids making a buck to paying the kids to play?

“Forward Progress: The Definitive Guide to the Future of College Football” is the book, Bill Connelly is the author and

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure.

1. Best non power 4 football game you’ve ever attended?

2. Who wins in a college basketball analytics steel cage match, Ken Pomeroy, Sean Oliver or Erik Haslam?

3. Best course you took at Missouri?

4. First concert you ever went to was who and where?

5. Best thing about your rescue dogs?

6. Which upset is more likely to happen, Michigan over Ohio State, Texas over Texas A&M or Auburn over Alabama?

7. Best Pizza Tree pizza has what on it?

8. Favorite whiskey of all time that isn’t Pappy is?

The Impossible Question:

In 90 years the Heisman award has been awarded to a true defensive player once. Is it truly representative of the best player in college football or the best offensive player and what will it take for Jacob Rodriguez to get a sniff?

The Back Half:

“Forward Progress: The Definitive Guide to the Future of College Football” is the book, Bill Connelly is the author and it’s time for the Back Half.

Bill, what is the perfect playoff format in your opinion?

Why is the transfer portal the best and yet the worst for college football?

As a stats nerd, what football stat has lost its meaning in today’s game?

So TQBR is the football stat needs more love?

Yes, No or Maybe: There will be a super college football league formed in the next 10 years?

So what will be the ending of the logjam of the 16 team playoff?

Can college football be fixed or it is broken forever?

Will private equity destroy college football?

Speaking of soccer, what’s your thoughts of the current US Men's National Team?

Future development of the team?

World Cup thoughts?

Your dream college football bracket?

What’s your nightmare bracket?

One Big Question:

If you were made college football commissioner and had sweeping powers to change the sport for the better, what 3 changes would you make?

The Wrap:

He loves Kimchi Pizza Pie, craves a Texas Tech / Indiana national championship and want you to read his book “Forward Progress: The Definitive Guide to the Future of College Football”

Bill Connelly thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

"The story in the movie and in the book is so close to my own story with my own father." - David Morse

Welcome Cameron Douglas and David Morse:

We’re joined on the Starline by a pair of actors. One is the only actor to portray both Abraham Lincoln and George Washington. The other has Hollywood storytelling in his blood. Together they want you to see a powerful story of forgiveness and 2nd chances in “Looking Through Water”. We welcome Cameron Douglas and David Morse.

Friends, let’s go Beyond the Mic. “I’m 75 years old, I just want to fish”. Cameron, what made this story perfect for you right now in your lives?

David, what was the challenge in this role for you?

The Rockin' 8:

Cameron Douglas and David Morse from “Looking Through Water join us Beyond the Mic. It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure. Since we have two guests, we’ll alternate questions.

1. David, who’s the better fisherman you or Cam?

2. Cameron, first tattoo was of what and where?

3. David, best memory on Broadway was with what show?

4. Cameron, best place you’ve ever been snow skiing?

5. David, hardest question ever: if you had one choice and only one… are you doing Cheesesteak from Pat’s… or a Hoagie from Lee’s.

6. Cameron, what’s the one household chore your wife depends on you to do?

7. David, did you keep your rod from the movie?

8. Cameron, what did you keep from the movie set?

Sneaking in Another One:

Best memory from Belize?

Two Big Questions:

Cam, If you could take your dad fishing for one day, where would you go and what would want to catch?

David, if you could ask your dad one question, what would it be?

The Wrap:

Cam is responsible for taking out the trash, David is the better fisherman and they want you to watch their powerful movie “Looking Through Water”. Cameron Douglas and David Morse thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Timothy Wayne:

We’re joined on the Starline by the nephew of 90’s country music royalty. The LSU Tiger went from singing on the farm or at the frat house to going on tour while working on his history degree. His single “Good Ole Boys Girl” is out. We welcome Timothy Wayne.

AG Timothy, let’s go Beyond the Mic. It’s your senior year and you’re balancing LSU football games, concerts and trying to go out and sing as much as you can. Plus friends, family, relationships…what makes your Hannah Montana double life you lead so worth it for you?

Why does music touch your soul?

How has music changed you from when you started to now?

Who helped you open up more?

The Rockin' 8:

Timothy Wayne’s single “Good Ole Boys Girl” is out and it’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct.

1. Best trait of your mom?

2. When was the last year you found the baby in the King Cake?

3. Favorite club to play at?

4. Who gave you your first guitar and do you still have it?

INSTANT FOLLOWUP: What is it?

5. Which guitar string do you break the most?

6. One city you want to visit that you haven’t yet?

7. If you could tour around opening for one artist, not family, who is it?

8. What cut of steak do you like and how do you want it cooked?

The Back Half:

We’re joined by a future country music superstar Timothy Wayne Beyond the Mic for the Back Half. Timothy, which teacher has given you the most hell for not being at class?

How has your imposter syndrome been overcome?

Who has better hair you or your uncle?

When you are out on the road, what’s the one thing you have to bring?

The Impossible Question:

You could guarantee winning 1 LSU football game by 50 points every year for the rest of your life but you couldn’t sing anymore, who would LSU beat?

Who is the “Good Ole Boys Girl” to you?

How has playing music changed the way you see the world?

As you bring the joy of music to the world, what does it mean when people are smiling and singing along with you especially when they are singing your songs?

Your family on your mom’s side are all from Louisiana. What makes Louisiana and LSU so special for you?

Best things Aunt Shelly and your mom cooks for you?

What was your favorite song to sing? 

Best country music artist that isn’t Jerry Reed and isn’t related to you?

One Big Question:

What does a family oriented, humble, grounded woman mean to you?

The Wrap:

He would love LSU beating Alabama by 50 every year forever and breaks his g string the most. Listen to his single “Good Ole Boys Girl” Timothy Wayne, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Holly Gleason:

We’re joined on the Starline by a music critic, dreamer, an award winning writer, teacher, songwriter and publicist. She’s written for Rolling Stone, The LA & NY Times, Playboy, and many more. Her latest project is co-author of Kenny Chesney’s book “Heart Life Music”. We welcome Holly Gleason

AG, Holly, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Why was this the perfect opportunity for this book?

“And if you've got dreams, whatever they are, know they don't always come easy. But if you believe, do the hard work, and keep coming back, you'd be amazed at what can happen.” How was the one story that you witnessed that showed the never quit in Kenny Chesney?

The Impossible Question:

What would your life had been had Kenny Chesney was never in it?

The Rockin' 8:

Co-author of Kenny Chesney’s book “Heart Life Music” Holly Gleason join us for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure.

1. Favorite flower?

2. Last book you read that wasn’t one you wrote?

3. Country star that didn’t get the recognition they deserved?

4. Secret place where you get most of your writing done?

5. Favorite Taylor Swift song?

6. Best memory of Mr. Corliss?

7. Favorite Kenny Chesney song?

8. Last time you saw a shooting star was where?

One Big Question:

You once wrote on forgiveness: "People are flawed, broken, damaged, pity them and move on. Let it go. Bless them and send them on their way. Feel lighter." How has writing given you the opportunity to forgive others?

Where can people find the book?

3 words to describe your love of music?

The Wrap:

She loves Stargazer lilies, writing in Holly’s Diner and wants you to read the book she co-wrote with Kenny Chesney “Heart Life Music”. Holly Gleason thanks for taking the time to talk with us today and rabbit, rabbit to you.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Leland Vittert:

We’re joined on the Starline by a man who didn’t speak for years when he was young. He transformed from “weird”, bullied boy to one of the respected, fair and fearless journalists today. His miraculous life story is “BORN LUCKY: A Dedicated Father, A Grateful Son, and My Journey with Autism.” We welcome NewsNation’s Leland Vittert.

Leland, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Your book has sold out twice even before the first release. Your dad said “I went from zero to loving you in two seconds”. How did the story of his relentless push through 106 failed sales call, before finding success, inspire you discovering your own success?

Why did the lessons he taught you social cues etc, help you become a better journalist?

The Rockin' 8:

Leland Vittert’s book is “BORN LUCKY: A Dedicated Father, A Grateful Son, and My Journey with Autism.” Leland, it’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Favorite flavor of Dots candy?

2. Best thing about your wife Rachel?

3. Best cigar you’ve ever had was a…

4. Last thing you cooked in you green egg?

5. Best place for a vacation is…

6. On a plane: aisle, window or middle seat?

7. Best movie ever is …

8. When was the last time you went rowing?

Sneaking in a One More:

How did writing this book change the way you see yourself?

The Impossible Question:

“You don’t have to be defined by a diagnosis”. What are you defined by?

One Big Question:

“It’s not fun to go to therapy on national TV, but I’m doing it because I think it can really help folks.” What’s your message to the misunderstood amazing kids out?

The Wrap:

He last grilled a beef tenderloin, loves his wife’s emotional eq and wants you to read his book “BORN LUCKY: A Dedicated Father, A Grateful Son, and My Journey with Autism.”

Leland Vittert, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Bernie Leadon

We’re joined on the Starline by a country rock pioneer. You’ve heard his work in Hearts & Flowers, Dillard & Clark and the Flying Burrito Brothers. A founding member of the Eagles’. His newest solo album is “Too Late to Be Cool”. We welcome Bernie Leadon.

Bernie, let’s go Beyond the Mic. What was the feeling creating “Too Late to Be Cool”?

How does recording analog vs digitally change the way you record and hear an album?

Why did recording this album this way give it a throwback to some of the greatest albums of all time that only used to have 16 tracks?

Bernie, you have led an incredible life, do you truly believe it’s too late to be cool?

You said “Some stories take decades to finish. Why I left. Why I’m back.” How has music touched your soul and who inspired you to return? 

The Rockin' 8:

Bernie Leadon newest solo album is “Too Late to Be Cool” and it’s time for the Rockin’ 8. 8 random questions, Bernie just trust your first instinct.

1. What was the last thing you harvested from your farm?

2. What’s your go-to way to unwind that isn’t music based?

3. Who is the top 3 guitar players of all time?

4. What do your grandkids call you?

5. First banjo you ever owned was what and do you still have it?

INSTANT FOLLOWUP: Which string do you break the most? 

6. Bernie, who is the one artist, living or gone, that you would love to jam with for one song, and what would you play?

7. Favorite place in the world to just think other than your front porch?

8. Who do you admire the most in music right now?

The Back Half:

We’re talking with Bernie Leadon Beyond the Mic with the Back Half. What do you want people to feel when they hear “Too Late to Be Cool”?

How has reflecting on the past help you plan for the future?

Bernie, what’s the most challenging song for you on this album?

Looking back at your life, what is the feeling in your heart when you hear fans applaud?

Why is playing music special to you?

How did working with Glyn Johns help you put a better product out?

Bernie. how has the way you write evolved and improved since starting?

Influences:

We’re talking with Bernie Leadon Beyond the Mic. Who influenced your decision focusing on authenticity rather than commercial success and would you change your mind today?

You have always believed in a music-first philosophy. Has the music industry changed to the fans detriment?

How do you view the current state of Americana and country-rock music today?

Why has your family’s love sustained you and what does one hug from them mean today?

Best memory of your brother growing up?

You play electric & acoustic guitar, banjo, Dobro, mandolin and pedal steel. What’s the instrument you wished you learned?

You’ve played with and for some incredible artists in your life. What’s the one story from the road that still makes you chuckle today?

What’s the quality of a good Mexican restaurant?

The Impossible Question:

What’s the one thing you wish you did sooner and the one thing you wish you never did?

One Big Question:

Bernie, in your life well lived, what do you want people to remember you by?

The Wrap:

He wanted a Vega Banjo growing up, loved singing harmony with Linda Ronstadt. He wants you to hear “Too Late to Be Cool”. Bernie Leadon thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome The Turning - River Road:

We’re joined on the Starline by an award winning podcast producer & host with a PhD in Clinical Psychology. Her tag team partner is a producer, former radio personality, and editor who led the first major podcast workshop in Armenia. Their project is co-hosting “The Turning: River Road”. We welcome Elin Lantz Lesser and Erika Lantz.

Friends, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Why was it necessary to shine a light on insular communities?

With the levels of devotion and passion that some communities have, how difficult is it for you to see the victims of “The Turning” various stories?

What’s the one thing about Lindsay Tornambe story that sticks with you today?

The Rockin' 8:

Elin Lantz Lesser and Erika Lantz from “The Turning: River Road” join us Beyond the Mic. It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure. Since we have two guests we’ll alternate questions.

1. Elin, what’s the one thing you miss from Copenhagen?

2. Erika, favorite teacher at Yale?

3. Elin, who is your hero in the realm of psychology?

4. Erika, ballet taught you discipline and attention to detail. How hard was it to let go?

5. Elin, favorite book to read growing up?

6. Erika, the best Joni Mitchell album is obviously?

7. Elin, have you stopped over klunkify ing things?

8. Erika, what is the power of public media today?

Sneaking in A Couple More:

What’s justice mean to you with these communities?

Who’s the better sister?

Who’s the better sister?

One Big Question:

How has telling these stories changed you?

The Wrap:

Elin over collects things, Erika loves Joni Mitchell’s “Blue”. They want you to hear “The Turning: River Road”. Elin Lantz Lesser and Erika Lantz thanks for taking the time to talk with us.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Shari Diaz and Kate Robards:

We’re joined on the Starline by a pair of funny ladies. One a Bronx comedian, writer, podcaster and actress who’s “Everyone’s Homegirl”. The other is her Orange Texas BFF who is an actress, writer, comedian and podcaster. They’ve come together for the absurd and crazy antics of cheaters with their podcast “Cheaters and Backstabbers”. Let’s welcome the funny Shari Diaz and Kate Robards.

Friends, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Where did “Cheaters and Backstabbers” originate from?

Who has the worst luck in relationships between the two of you?

Which episode did you relate with the most?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure. Since we have two guests, we’ll alternate questions.

1. Kate: Best thing about Shari?

2. Shari: Best thing about Kate?

3. Kate: You said last year “You can tell how bad your childhood trauma is by how bad the people you’re attracted to are.” Were you ever attracted to a serial killer?

4. Shari: One thing you loved the most from your trip to Guatemala?

5. Kate: What was the best episode on your weekly TV show on Lamar University TV?

6. Shari: Do you remember the name of the comedian that made you laugh the most for Oak City Comedy Festival?

7. Kate: Do you ever want to call the persons who placed 1st and 2nd in the After Dinner Speaking competition and say “Look at what third place got me”?

8. Shari: “One thing about me – imma always be laughin’”. Who makes you laugh?

The Impossible Question:

Kate since you couldn’t get J Balvin and Bad Bunny to meet Shari, you helped raise money to help her fight cancer. Why was that important for you and Shari, what does Kate’s friendship mean to you?

My wife has PCOS and Hashimoto’s so I understand…

Sneaking in One More:

Which episode should be the best one for people to start off with?

The Wrap:

Kate was never attracted to a serial killer, Shari loves the food from Guatemala and they want you to listen to “Cheaters and Backstabbers”. Shari Diaz and Kate Robards thanks for taking the time to talk with us today!

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Nicholas Friedman

National Anime Day happens every April 15th and we’re joined on the Starline by one of the Signal award winning co-hosts of “Crunchyroll Presents: The Anime Effect” podcast. He’s a girl dad, cat lover and Fall Out Boy fan. We welcome Nicolas Friedman.

Nicholas, let’s go Beyond the Mic. The goal of “The Anime Effect” is to spotlight the best in anime showing its impact on pop culture. How has the last full year of the podcast changed you?

How has anime changed your life?

What was your favorite show from the last year?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1.  Last manga you’ve read lately?

2.  Which was harder, writing for the Denton Record-Chronicle or figuring out weekly tasks for the award-winning Crunchyroll news organization?

3. What was the favorite project you’ve worked on at Crunchyroll that wasn’t “The Anime Effect”?

4. What’s your guilty pleasure?

5. Sunrise or sunset?

6. If you could teach a class, what would be the subject?

7. Where is the best place in the Crunchyroll office to think?

8. Which upcoming episode is the one you are most excited for?

Sneaking in Couple More:

My daughter is a huge fan of Crunchyroll and she wants to know “How has working at Crunchyroll changed your life?”

What was your 1st Anime growing up?

How has being a girl dad changed you?

Why should people listen to “The Anime Effect”?

Favorite Pokemon?

Best thing about your co-hosts?

What is one thing that people need to know about anime? Why?

One Big Question:

What is the hardest thing about your job?

The Wrap:

He likes the 4th Fallout Boy studio album and wants you to hear “Crunchyroll Presents: The The Anime Effect” wherever you find podcasts. Nicholas Friedman, so much for taking the time to talk with us today and Happy Anime Day!

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Ceri Isfryn:

We’re joined on the Starline by an award-winning director who has produced and directed incredible documentaries like “The House of Maxwell” & “The Fake Sheikh”. Her latest series on National Geographic, Disney+ and Hulu is “Oklahoma City Bombing: One Day In America”. We welcome series director Ceri Isfryn.

Ceri, let’s go Beyond the Mic. 30 years ago on April 19th 1995 the deadliest act of domestic terrorism took place in Oklahoma City, why was it important telling this story?

When you work on a project for sometimes more than a year, how does seeing the final result change the way you see it?

Why was it important not only showing the pursuit of justice but the heartbreaks, courage and the mourning of a nation?

The Rockin' 8:

"Oklahoma City Bombing: One Day In America” director Ceri Isfryn joins us for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Which interview gave you chills?

2. How many times have you visit Oklahoma City? 

3. Which project of yours is the one you wished more people saw?

4. Who is the woman director who influenced you growing up?

5. Favorite TV show to watch now?

6. Last Wales Rugby match you attended was when?

7. Do you scrapbook?

8. Person who encourages you the most?

Sneaking in A Couple More:

You are always looking for a story. Sometimes a story of controversy, other times a story of justice. What motivates your story telling?

Ceri, do you feel that something like Oklahoma City could happen again?

Two Big Question:

What was the hardest video for you to watch in researching “Oklahoma City Bombing: One Day in America” and how did this project change you?

You’re not an American, why was it important for you to do this project as a Welsh woman?

The Wrap:

She loves journaling and watching The Traitors. “Oklahoma City Bombing: One Day in America” Director Ceri Isfryn thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Dan Schlossberg:

We’re joined on the Starline by an award winning writer, editor, graphic designer, sportswriter and travel journalist. You’ve seen his work in USA Today, the AP, Forbes among other places. His latest of the 40+ books he’s authored is the updated “The New Baseball Bible”. We welcome Dan Schlossberg.

Dan, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Baseball has had some incredible stories, from a midget taking 4 balls to a game being postponed due to fog and a homicide. What story interests you the most from this book?

Do you believe banning the shift and the pitch clock has helped or hurt baseball?

Which team publicist was your favorite?

How has baseball made you happy?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Best game you ever saw live?

2. Which player, not in Cooperstown, deserves to be in?

3. If you could change one rule to make the game better what is it?

4. 10 words or less on the Savannah Bananas?

5. Best place to travel on vacation?

6. Best memory at Syracuse?

7. ____will win the World Series this year? (Episode was taped earlier this year)

8. If you could own a major league franchise, which manager, dead or alive would you want?

The Back Half:

Give me the best player for each position you ever saw live?

Why do you fall in love with baseball?

Do you still have the same passion for the game today?

Would you rather baseball move back to 154 games?

What is your favorite story from the book?

For his contributions to baseball, should Pete Rose be in the hall of fame?

For his contributions to baseball, should Shoeless Joe in the hall of fame?

One Big Question:

Favorite baseball moment?

The Wrap:

Dan Shlossberg loves the Savannah Bananas, wants Steve Garvey in the Baseball Hall of Fame and wants you to read “The New Baseball Bible”. Dan, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Shortcut.

Welcome Peter Gros and Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant:

We’re joined on the Starline by the current co-hosts of the legendary wildlife show. One is a wildlife ecologist, TV host, author and speaker. The other is a wildlife expert, conservationist and TV host. We welcome the co-hosts of Mutual of Omaha’s “Wild Kingdom: Protecting the Wild” Peter Gros and Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant.

Friends, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Wild Kingdom is back with a whole new season. Peter, when you look back at the original Wild Kingdom, what’s the biggest lesson you’ve brought to “Protecting the Wild” today?

Dr. Rae, you said “I hope viewers will be transported to exciting places far and near that are rich with stories of conservation hope”. How important is conservation today?

I had a recent conversation with biologist Doug Smith on returning wolves to Yellowstone and the impact it made on the ecosystem there. What species do you think best represents the urgency of protecting habitats right now?

The Rockin' 8:

The co-hosts of Mutual of Omaha’s “Wild Kingdom: Protecting the Wild” Peter Gros and Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant join us Beyond the Mic and it’s time for the Rockin’ 8. All this is 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure. Since we have two guests, we’ll alternate questions.

1. Yes, No or Maybe : Rae, it was easier to prepare for a Wild Kingdom episode than getting interviewed by John Legend?

2. Yes, No or Maybe : Peter, one of your first episodes from Wild Kingdom was diving with great white sharks. Your son said “you’re bait”. Have you tried to convince the producers to put Rae in a shark cage yet? 

3. Dr. Rae: favorite animal?

4. Peter: most underappreciated animal? 

5. Dr. Rae: last time you took your kids to the beach was when and did you teach them a lesson?

6. Peter: best memory from rural Hudson Valley, New York?

7. Dr. Rae: One place that opened your eyes to a totally new level?

8. Peter: sunrises or sunsets?

The Back Half:

The co-hosts of Mutual of Omaha’s “Wild Kingdom: Protecting the Wild” Peter Gros and Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant join us Beyond the Mic for the Back Half. Dr. Rae, as you work with Peter you bridge a powerful show to a new generation. How has his passion and experience helped you?

Peter, how does Dr. Rae’s energy influence Wild Kingdom for the future?

Dr. Rae you said “There are no rules to this thing called life- and especially non-traditional careers”. How has this opportunity changed you?

Peter you said “But the show made us all very aware that our planet had problems and we needed to preserve the natural world for both animals and our own quality of life. What kind of a world would it be if we didn’t have wildlife and wildlands?” What improvements have you seen since you started in 1985?

Dr. Rae, why large carnivores and how does that passion connect with Wild Kingdom?

Peter, how do you balanced the emotions of conservation, the wins and some losses, when sharing stories with viewers?

Sneaking In a Couple More:

The co-hosts of Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom: Protecting the Wild Peter Gros and Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant join us Beyond the Mic for the Back Half. Dr. Rae, if you could spotlight one issue in the future, what would it be?

Peter, was there ever a behind-the-scenes moment that never made it to air and what happened?

As scientists, how do you make subjects relatable to kids who might just be tuning in for the cute animals?

Two Big Questions:

The co-hosts of Mutual of Omaha’s “Wild Kingdom: Protecting the Wild” Peter Gros and Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant join us for Two Big Questions. Rae, looking at your journey, from field scientist to co-host of Wild Kingdom, how do you hope your story inspires others?

Peter, after decades of bringing the wild into people’s homes. What do you hope your legacy and Wild Kingdom’s legacy will mean to the next generation?

The Wrap:

Peter likes opening his back door into the woods, Dr. Rae is just a nine minute walk to beach. They want you to watch Mutual of Omaha’s “Wild Kingdom: Protecting the Wild” on NBC Peter Gros and Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant thank you for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Frank Figliuzzi:

We’re joined on the Starline by a former FBI Special Agent and retired Assistant Director for counterintelligence at the FBI. His second book is “Long Haul: Hunting the Highway Serial Killers”. We welcome Frank Figiliuzzi.

Frank, let’s go Beyond the Mic. This book started because a FBI analyst told you about the Highway Serial Killings Initiative. When you heard about the 850 murders linked to long-hail truckers, what were your emotions?

Mental illness, drug addiction and need for money to pay make their quota are some of the demons faced by women who are sex trafficked. Why were these women targets for long haul killers?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Favorite food in Cleveland?

2. Last movie you saw?

3. How long did your big rig cross country ride take?

4. Best moment at UConn?

5. How long did it take to voice “Long Haul”?

6. How many times have you visited the Grand Canyon?

7. Best place you have cruised in the world?

8. What is your typical Starbucks order?

The Back Half:

When you were tasked to lead an FBI squad to tackle crimes against children, how did that change the way you see criminals?

You know what to look for in a sex trafficker. How do you handle when you see one?

What percentage of these truckers will be caught of the 850 murders?

How does that make you feel?

The Impossible Question:

What is the biggest threat facing the United States from external forces?

One Big Question:

What are your thoughts on justice in the world today?

The Wrap:

He loves a good hot pastrami, cruising in Alaska and he wants you to read his book “Long Haul: Hunting the Highway Serial Killers”. Frank Figliuzzi thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Regina Zernay:

We’re joined on the Starline by a singer, songwriter and bassist. You’ve heard her with Detroit Diesel Power, Scarlet Fever, Cee Lo Green and Cowboy Mouth. Her first solo album is “High Rolling” We welcome Regina Zernay.

Regina, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Music has always been part of your life. What does it mean for you putting out your first solo album?

This was almost a Detroit Diesel Power project, why do you love music so much it was enough to let your band kicking you to the front by yourself?

You’re left handed and yet play the bass right handed. How did your love of music evolve from being a Noble at Nogales High School to now?

Were you tempted to leave high school early to head out on the road?

“Are you well enough to ride, and tuff enough to win. Then step right up and see what you bring.” What makes “Ladies’ Night in L.A.” the perfect song for a girl in la la land who was actually born in New York?

The Rockin' 8:

Regina Zernay’s first solo album is “High Rolling” and Regina, it’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. First song you learned the bass fingering to?

2. Who is your dream collaboration with?

3. First bass was what and do you still have it?

4. You donate proceeds from download sales of “Rulebreaker” to the New Life Animal Sanctuary. What’s your favorite animal?

5. Best thing your mom Francisca ever taught you?

6. One thing you depend on your husband Darren to do?

7. You’ve played Wembley and MSG. Where’s your dream place to play?

8. Sunsets or sunrises?

The Back Half:

“It has been said that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. However, in the new world of music copyright infringement, imitation may be the most expensive compliment a songwriter can give.” What are your future fears as a songwriter with AI music?

When you’re out on tour, you must bring this one thing. What is it?

You’re a musician, and a lawyer… how do they work together?

How has your songwriting changed from when you first started?

Why has breaking rules helped you love music more?

Who is the person that has taught you the most in songwriting?

Go Deeper:

Who fights for you?

Why is your husband so special to you musically and how has he changed since you’ve been together?

What’s the song that almost didn’t make “High Rolling” and why?

What do you want people to take away from “High Rolling”?

Why is it important in giving back, especially female musicians?

Regina, what was your darkest day and how did you overcome it?

You talked about your worst day, your best day was?

Best memory of Patrick Butler Jones?

The Impossible Question:

If you could go back and tell your 17 year old self one thing to make yourself better, what would you tell her?

The Wrap:

Her success isn’t an illusion, its reality. Her solo album is “High Rolling”. Regina Zernay, where can people find you online?

Regina thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Bernard MacMahon

We’re joined on the Starline by an Irish-British filmmaker. If you’ve love music his Primetime Emmy Nominated “American Epic” series is one to watch. His latest project is the first ever band-authorized documentary of Led Zeppelin in “Becoming Led Zeppelin” which had the biggest opening weekend ever for an IMAX Exclusive music release. We welcome director Bernard MacMahon.

You have to visit the Buddy Holly Center!

Bernard, let’s go Beyond the Mic.

How were you able to capture this white whale, a story everyone would want to tell, but has been elusive till today?

What was the biggest challenge with this project that wasn’t trying to find video of the late John Bonham?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Which Led Zeppelin song makes you stop and listen every time it plays?

2. What was your first camera?

3. How did the pandemic slow down the film, but allowed it to breathe?

4. Which director influenced you growing up?

5. Favorite classic movie?

6. Which is your favorite performance in the movie?  

7. What’s the best thing about your producing partner Allison McGourty?

8. Favorite film festival?

One Big Question:

What band would you like to tackle for your next project?

The Wrap:

His favorite film festival is Venice, loves Frank Capra and wants you to see “Becoming Led Zeppelin” Bernard MacMahon, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Dr. Katherine Ramsland:

We’re joined on the Starline by an author of 73 books, professor of forensic psychology and Inaugural Director for the Center for Teaching Excellence. Her latest project is ID’s “The Serial Killer’s Apprentice”. We welcome Dr. Katherine Ramsland.

Katherine, let’s go Beyond the Mic. What made Elmer Wayne Henley Jr’s case such an intriguing one for you?

60 hours of conversations with him. What was the one fact that shocked you?

As you examine so many cases and their fallout, what’s the one heartbreaking thing for you?

What makes psychology so fulfilling for you?

The Rockin' 8:

ID’s “The Serial Killer’s Apprentice” and Dr. Katherine Ramsland joins us Beyond the Mic.

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Favorite flavor of pie?

2. Biggest carp you have ever caught?

3. Favorite of your “Hearts of Darkness” books?

4. Best memory of KillerCon?

5. Favorite season?

6. You said “The brain craves patterns.” What does your brain crave?

7. Best thing about your horse Sunny?

8. Have you ever talked to FBI special agent Frank Figliuzzi about the long haul trucker serial killers?

Sneaking in One More:

How has confirmation bias derailed more than one investigator?

One Big Question:

ID’s “The Serial Killer’s Apprentice” Dr. Katherine Ramsland joins us Beyond the Mic for One Big Question

Solving a murder can be rewarding, and internet sleuths are everywhere. How has the availability of information helped and sometimes hurt solving crimes?

The Wrap:

Her brain craves mysteries, loves her horse Sunny and is the Carp Queen. She wants you to watch ID’s “The Serial Killer’s Apprentice” Dr. Katherine Ramsland thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Andrea Gunning:

We’re joined on the Starline by a woman whose work you’ve heard in “Confronting”, “Dating Diaries: Quarantine Confessions” and much more. She’s head of podcast development and production at Glass Entertainment group and powers through meal prepping, stair master and life while listening to podcasts. Her latest project is hosting season 2 of “Betrayal Weekly”. We welcome Andrea Gunning.

Andrea, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Betrayal has been built on stories of trust that have been destroyed, deceptions and evil in the world. How does following the trail of destruction left behind in these stories feed your curiosity?

How hard is it for you to hear these resilient stories each week, knowing there are so many stories to be told?

Which of the August episodes, Brook, Libby or Angela shocked you the most?

The Rockin' 8:

Her latest project is season 2 of “Betrayal Weekly”. Host Andrea Gunning joins us Beyond the Mic for the Rockin’ 8. 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is absolutely no Pressure.

1. Best Foo Fighter song ever is?

2. Most underappreciated place on the Jersey Shore?

3. Which Gilded Age character do you relate the most to?

4. Best place to think as a Bomber at Ithaca College?

5. What volleyball position were you best at?

6. Was O.J. guilty? 

7. Are you a fan or not of pumpkin spice?

8. Between Carrie, Monique, Tanner and Caitlin, your production crew at Betrayal, who made you smile last?

Sneaking in a Couple More:

Andrea, you’ve used podcasting to help yourself “If I’m going through something, what would ‘podcast me’ say?” So what does podcast you say to all the people who have faced adversity and have been betrayed?

How has the way you have tackled your own anxiety helped you to be a better communicator and podcaster?

Have you ever heard a story and saw someone hurting so bad that your first instinct wasn’t to get the story, but to just give the person a hug? How empathic are you?

One Big Question:

What’s the name of the story from Betrayal that changed the way you see the world forever?

The Wrap:

She’s not a fan of Pumpkin Spice, love playing volleyball and wants you to listen to Betrayal Weekly wherever you can find podcasts. Andrea Gunning thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Shortcut.

Welcome John Fugelsang:

We’re joined on the Starline by an actor, comedian, writer, TV host, political commentator, television personality, author and radio host of “Tell Me Everything”. His New York Times Bestseller is “Separation of Church and Hate”. We welcome John Fugelsang.

John, let’s go Beyond the Mic. You’re alive because “two people broke a promise to God.” How has comedy helped you avoid therapy?

In today’s polarized political climate, what made you confident you can break down a topic is a way where people would listen?”

In your book you ask “If the Virgin Mary came back, would the Vatican let her say mass?” But in today’s climate, isn’t the deeper question whether anyone would believe who she was who she claimed to be?

Late night TV has always been a reality check on the political climate. What makes right now an important moment for late night TV?

The Rockin' 8:

His New York Times Bestseller is “Separation of Church and Hate”. We welcome John Fugelsang. John, it’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Best thing about your child?

2. Are you more like Calvin or Hobbes?

3. Biggest misconception about you?

4. Best interview you ever did was with who?

5. Favorite movie line you quote too often is?

6. Tea or coffee and how many cups before you’re human?

7. Guilty pleasure TV show you’ll actually admit watching?

8. Favorite Travelling Wilbury’s song is obviously is…

The Back Half:

John Fugelsang’s New York Times Bestseller is “Separation of Church and Hate” and he joins us Beyond the Mic for the Back Half. John, what’s your favorite scripture, and how did your parents’ religious background shape, both positively and negatively your relationship with it?

You have said “Inner peace can save your life, but external rage is an adequate backup”. Do you believe today’s world can return to a reasonable time or will rage continue?

Social media has given everyone a megaphone. When did you decide to use yours for outrage or empathy?

“I realize some of you may be starting to get upset, so let me do what my court-appointed therapist calls ‘de-escalation’.” Who do you think will read your book and if you can’t change one mind was it worth it?

Do you think the push to one direction will cause a snap back?

What’s the hardest part about trying to be both funny and faithful to facts in a time where truth is optional?

Who keeps you in check today?

What would your parents think of the book?

We called John back to get him to answer…

Five Impossible Questions:

1. Do you have hope for the future of late night TV and why?

2. Top 5 late night hosts of all time from least to best?

3. Which was the hardest and easiest chapters to write?

4. If you could ask a higher power any one question, what would it be?

5. As fashion shifts, so does society’s pressure on women. As you say in your book “…we’ve ushered in a new Golden Age of Slut-Shaming – a time where the culture, the media, and the men demand women sexualize themselves to prove their societal value, and then punish the ones who dare to enjoy it.” With female to male ratio now increasing every year, will this change?

Sneaking in A Couple More:

Who influences you now?

Best concert you’ve ever see live that wasn’t Bob?

What’s the biggest misconception about your book?

Do you have hope for the future?

What is the one thing you need to change in your own perspective of the world?

One Big Question:

If you could have five uninterrupted minutes with someone who completely disagrees with you, how would you use it and what topic would you discuss?

The Wrap:

He was Calvin but pretends to be Hobbes, freebases coffee and wants you to read his book “Separation of Church and Hate”. John Fugelsang thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Chris Woolsey

We’re joined on the Starline by a friend of the program, and associate communications director at Vizio. Time to go Binge Watching with our friend Chris Woolsey. 

You’re so kind my friend. Let’s go Binge Watching Beyond the Mic. September is about comedy and adventure at Vizio and Watch Free+. Who is the best action star in your mind right now?

For me it’s either Jason Statham or Liam Neeson. I’m excited to see Liam’s take on The Naked Gun, but what do you have from either of these two this month?

Which is the better actor Antonio Banderas or Dwayne Johnson?

Since it’s back to school this month you have to have a couple of movies with a Back to School theme right?

Fast Four:

Binge Watching with our friend Chris Woolsey from Vizio, and a brief reminder. Chris Woolsey is my friend and I enjoy talking TV’s and movies with him, but there is no sponsorship with Vizio and I do not get anything from them, just like talking with my friend.

Now with that being said… It’s time for the Fast 4, 4 sets of Random things. Going from easier to impossible. You are 8 for 8, I’m going to try and stump you this time. See if you can see what they all have in common, there is no Pressure.

Easy: Richard Dawson, Linda Hunt, Jamie Lee Curtis and Linda Hamilton

Medium: Jason Statham, Burt Young, Jason Momoa, and Sir Roger Moore

Hard: Brandan Fraser, Benicio del Toro, Kevin Costner, Casey Affleck

Impossible: The Painted Veil, The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford, Snatch, and The Italian Job?

Sneaking in One More:

You spent the summer overseas. What’s the best thing you saw during your trip?

The Impossible Question:

If you couldn’t watch one type of movie, what genre are you tossing out forever: Action, comedy, drama, horror, thriller, adventure or mystery?

The Wrap:

Where can people find WatchFree+?

He’ll be back in October to get us ready for Halloween, enjoyed a European summer vacation and eliminated horror forever. He wants you to enjoy movies with Vizio. Chris Woolsey, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Binge Watching Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Gregory Maguire:

We’re joined on the Starline by author and dad. You’ve read “Wicked”, “Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister” among many other books. His latest is “Elphie”. We welcome Gregory Maguire.

Gregory, let’s go Beyond the Mic. What made you go back to the world of Oz for this prequel to Wicked?

What do you want readers to take away from this book?

“She makes wishes on falling stars still. She trusts the world that much.” How does Elphaba’s life feel so relevant in the world today?

How has the success of “Wicked” changed the way you see something you wrote 30 years later?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. If you could celebrate the New Year, anywhere in the world, where would you go?

2. Best place you enjoy vacation?

3. Which of your short stories didn’t get the love you thought it should have?

4. Are you scared of the dark?

5. What word do you love hearing? 

6. Least favorite subject in school?

7. Favorite Broadway show that you didn’t have a hand in?

8. Best gift you kids gave you?

Sneaking in a Couple More:

How has writing changed you and the way you see the world?

Who inspired you to start writing and who inspires you today?

One Big Question:

If you could whisper one thing to Elphaba that might change her forever, what would it be?

The Wrap:

He had to take Chemistry twice, loves the word welcome and wants you to read the book “Elphie”. Gregory Maguire thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Jon Wolfe:

We’re joined on the Starline by asinger songwriter and tequila guy who has evolved from his Miami Oklahoma roots and out touring keeping it country. His latest single, which he joined forces with Randy Rogers is “Tequila Cowboys”. We welcome Jon Wolfe.

Jon, let’s go Beyond the Mic. From your song “Tequila Cowboys” “We’re bankers and lawyers in fine tailored suits. We’re bikers and truckers in old leather boots”. Why has country music changed for the better and worse?

Why are you trying to bring country music back kicking and screaming where it needs to be in your mind?

You helped raise $115, 000 for Texas flood relief at Gruene Hall. My wife’s from Fredericksburg so I know why it’s important. But why was it important for you?

The Rockin' 8:

The Lone Wolf himself, Jon Wolfe is out on the road and singing “Tequila Cowboys” and Jon, it’s time for the Rockin’ 8. 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Best thing about your wife Amber?

2. One thing you wished you learned before you started Juan Lobo Tequila

INSTANT FOLLOWUP which is your favorite of all your products??

3. Favorite cigar you’ve ever smoked?

4. Who caught the biggest fish, you or your wife?

5. I’ve relaxed on both Grand and Fort Cobb Lake in Oklahoma. Would you rather be relaxing on the lake or on the ski slopes?

6. You’ve played at Austin City Limits, Gruene, Luckenbach and the Grand Ole Opry. Where is your dream place to play?

7. Who bought you your first cowboy hat and do you still have it?

8. Who in country music now motivates you today?

The Back Half:

You’ve teamed up with Randy Rogers and did a little Truth or Tequila with him. How many takes didn’t make the final video cut?

Your life transformed from trading oil with British Petroleum to music after an Alabama concert. How has your music evolved from “Almost Gone” to today?

How did the pandemic change the way you treasure music and your career?

Why is your wolf pack, your fans, more important than almost anything in your life?

When people come and see you play, what do you want them to take away from your music?

When out on the road touring, what’s the one comfort item from home that you have to have with you?

A question I asked musicians, and it is an unfair one I warn you, if you were to lose your voice forever, what would you do with the rest of your life and what would you want your final words people to hear?

And your final words?

You’ll play anywhere anyone wants to pay you and almost anywhere anytime. How has music changed you forever?

The Impossible Question:

If you had to get rid of one thing: Your wife, country music or drinking liquor forever, which gets the heave ho?

If you could bottle it up, what makes a great country song?

Who is the one person that is your dream to sing for, to or with?

One Big Question:

What has been your darkest day in country music so far and what has been the brightest?

How does family make it better?

The Wrap:

He once caught a 275 pound marlin, making music is now fun again and he wants you to hear “Tequila Cowboys”.

Jon Wolfe, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Art Alexakis:

We’re joined on the Starline by a singer, songwriter and musician. You know him and his band ever since the early 90’s where they have created 11 studio releases, 4 certified Gold or Platinum and more than 8 million records sold. Out on the Sparkle and Fade 30th Anniversary tour we welcome Art Alexakis from Everclear.

Art, let’s go Beyond the Mic. How has this tour revived your love of music?

Your music has been described over the years under many genres. What would be the best description of it from you?

You’ve released “Live at the Whisky A Go Go” the first live album from Everclear. How does a live performance fuel you?

BTM Listener Questions:

Tony Dietz has the following question: “Art, how much have you seen popular music evolve in the time that you've been writing/performing? For example, “Father of Mine” would likely not be as much of a hit song in today's music age versus when it hit the market.”

Jeff Tuck has the following question: “In the wake of Old Town Road, the blend of country and hip-hop has proven immensely popular. Any plans to bring back cowpunk?”

Misty King wants to know: As an A&R rep “Do you see any shifts inside the industry back toward a rock and alternative sound?”  

The Rockin' 8:

Art Alexakis from Everclear joins us Beyond the Mic, out on the Sparkle and Fade 30th Anniversary tour. Art, it’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Best Alt Rock Album of all time is?

2. Favorite song from your album “Sun Songs”?

3. Best memory of Cabo?

4. Most underappreciated band that influenced you?

5. Best thing about being a girl dad? 

6. First album you ever bought and do you still have it?

7. Best cigar you ever smoked was a …

8. Song that didn’t get the credit you thought it deserved?

Sneaking in a Couple More:

From a man whose dad has had more than thirty years of sobriety, what drives your continued sobriety?

During the pandemic your raised money to help musicians and music industry workers affected by the shutdown. Why was it important to help others when your band couldn’t work either?

When going out on the road, what’s the one comfort item from home you have to bring?

Which place is your favorite & your dream place to play a show?

What is the power of a song and a story?

If you couldn’t choose a career in music, what career would you have liked to master?

One Big Question:

How has your appreciation of music grown since the discovery of your relapsing-remitting MS?

The Wrap:

He still has his first album, would love to play la forum / red rocks and want you to enjoy the Sparkle and Fade 30th Anniversary tour. Art Alexakis thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome David Sheff

We’re joined on the Starline by a journalist, father and as Sanjay Gupta called him a “clear-eyed chronicler of addiction”. You’ve seen his memoir “Beautiful Boy”. His latest book is “Yoko”.

We welcome best-selling author David Sheff.

David, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Today, journalists are lucky to get ten minutes with an author, musician or movie star. But you spent three weeks with Yoko Ono and John Lennon in 1980. You’ve helped produce “Heart Play: Unfinished Dialogue”. How did your relationship bloom from an astrological reading to your friendship today?

Yoko always wanted to keep John image secure and relevant years after his assassination. But in doing so, how was she punished?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Favorite John Lennon song?

2. Who is the person you interviewed whose answers surprised you?

3. When was the best hug with your son Nic?

4. Favorite piece of art from Jasper is what?

5. What chore does your wife Karen depend on you to do?

6. What’s the one thing about Daisy that makes you smile?

7. Best thing about a dog?

8. “Yoko imagined a better world – and she worked to create one.” Has Yoko outlived her haters and had the last laugh in creating a better world?

One Big Question:

“Yoko had come to expect disappointment, but each time, she couldn’t help but hope.” As we approach a day where Yoko is no longer on this earth, what is the one thing people need to know about her love of family?

The Wrap:

He loves John Lennon’s song “Mother”, in charge of all of the cooking & cleaning at home. The book is “Yoko” David Sheff, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Rob Dunn

We’re joined on the Starline by a biologist, writer and professor at North Carolina State University. He’s focused on the biology of daily life. His latest project explores how our cravings for delicious flavors unite us with Animals in “Taste: The Flavor of Life” on Curiosity Stream. We welcome the man working on a wild sourdough, Dr Rob Dunn.

Rob, let’s go Beyond the Mic. The ultimate question I and others battle each day, especially with our wives is what we are going to have for dinner. It’s actually an equation in your opinion by the body. “The pursuit of deliciousness made us who we are.” Why does the nutritional needs of our body guide us to what we eat?

You co-wrote with Monica Sanchez “Delicious- The Evolution of Flavor and How it Made us Human”. Why did this book needed to be written and why hadn’t these book been written before?

In “Taste” you trace the impact of taste from animals to fine dining. As you did your research, what was the one fact that amazed you about this process?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. As I graduated under an interdisciplinary program, I know the value of it. But in 20 seconds, how do you explain interdisciplinary studies to someone who has no idea what it is?

2. Least favorite thing that you like to eat? Fermented meats

3. Are you pro or anti cicada?

4. Favorite bug?

5. You’ve had songs written about your work, your research awarded more than 10 million dollars in grants, but what’s the one thing you really want people to know about you?

6. “Science is full of egos and arrogance, but it is fuller of simple moments of pleasure at the joy of finding some gem of new knowledge, big or small.” What brings you joy?

7. You’ve examined the beauty of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, but where’s the one place you go when you need to think?

8. Who won more chess matches, you or your kids?

Two Big Questions:

What’s the biggest challenge you have faced during your work on this project?

What do you want people to get out from your work?

The Wrap:

Dr Rob Dunn loves new ideas won’t eat fermented meats and wants you to watch “Taste: The Flavor of Life” on Curiosity Stream. Rob, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Tom Sturges:

We’re joined on the Starline by a music executive, educator, speaker, author, mentor, giver and most importantly dad. He signed Smashing Pumpkins, 50 Cent, the Foo Fighters and more in his career. His latest book for his second career is “Men Explained, Finally”. We welcome Tom Sturges.

Tom, let’s go Beyond the Mic. You’ve served as a mentor for both the Manhattan Beach and LA school districts. Why was it important for to you to breakdown the 14 year old caveman aka men living inside all of us to the world?

How did you go from studying music composition and conducting at UC Davis to breaking down the code of men?

Which of your truths you break down like “men love forever” or “men are heroes” are you most guilty of?

Was there a truth you broke out that you left out?

The Rockin' 8:

“Men Explained, Finally” is the book, Author Tom Sturges joins us Beyond the Mic. It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Best Lakers game you’ve ever attended live?

2. Last TV Series you’ve binge watched?

3. Best thing you found on the side of the road in a middle of a rainstorm?

4. The one chore that you had to remind your sons growing up to do? 

5. Your favorite of all your father’s films?

6. Which actor is underappreciated in your opinion?

7. Favorite artist that never made it the way you thought they should have?

8. Your book “Every Idea is a Good Idea” talks about creativity. What was the subject of your last great idea?

Sneaking in A Couple More:

You said once “Guiding a creative mind requires incredible patience and understanding, and willingness and flexibility, and very often, privacy.” Who guided you to be the way you are today?

You believe in being a giver. Why is it important to help others?

What do you want people to take away from this book?

One Big Question:

You talk about how we “stumble ourselves out of almost every problem”. What was the biggest problem you stumbled out of and how lucky were you?

The Wrap:

His mom joined a cult growing up. met his wife in a rainstorm, and wants you to read his powerful book “Men Explained, Finally”. Tom Sturges thank you so much for taking the time to talk with us today.

I’ll see you down the road. And that my friends is Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Kai Beckstrand

We’re joined on the Starline by the American Ninja Warrior winner, taking out all comers, including his brother on the way to $250,000. We welcome Kai Beckstrand.

Kai, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Your road to Ninja Warrior champion started at 12 when you won the American Ninja Warrior Jr competition. How did you prepare for the biggest moment of your life in the finals?

How does your family love of Ninja Warrior support and help you?

Speed has helped you in the past and also punished you. How is Ninja Warrior not just strength or speed but a mental battle?

In ANW Jr it’s head to head. Previous years ANW competitions were solo. Why do going head to head change the dynamics of the competition?

Your brother was actually ahead of you for most of the quarterfinal. How did you overcome the adversity of “crap, I don’t want to lose to little brother”.

The Rockin' 8:

Kai Beckstrand winner of American Ninja Warrior joins us Beyond the Mic. It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Who is the one person you never want to race head to head?

2. In a family of ninjas, what’s the worst chore mom and dad made you do?

3. If you could snap your fingers and eliminate one obstacle forever, it would be?

4. Favorite obstacle of Ninja Warrior? 

5. Best thing about Grip Fitness?

6. Best thing about your brother Luke?

7. Name of the last lamb you showed?

8. Would you rather be in the pool or on the ski slopes?

Sneaking in a Couple More:

What’s your message to the Type 1 diabetic’s fans after you won?

Biggest obstacle you’ve overcome in your life?

What is your next challenge?

The Impossible Question:

You’ve gone through firefighter academy and EMT training. What goes through your mind about dealing with life and death situations, especially with knowing that you might not be able to save everyone no matter how hard you try?

Where can people find you online?

The Wrap:

He loves the salmon ladder wants to get rid of all rope climbs and wants you to watch American Ninja Warrior on NBC Kai Beckstrand, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today and congratulations.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome John Lee Bishop:

We’re joined on the Starline by a pastor and author. His story is unlike any other as one of America’s biggest pastors became a drug runner for a Mexican cartel. His book is “The Church of Living Dangerously” and we welcome its author John Lee Bishop.

John Lee, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Drugs, guns, tigers, boxing matches with your bare knuckles and getting on and off the wagon. This story has it all.

One Big Question:

Normally I end an interview with this, but I’m going to start with One Big Question. Have you forgiven yourself for the depths of darkness you fell in?

 “But in prison, not everyone was normal. Some guys just wanted to brawl.” And you say later “... and it never ends well for you, or for anyone. Even if you win.” How did the way you fought emotionally and physically change through this?

Why was writing this book so important to you now?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Best memory of Saint Martin’s University?

2. What does a clean floor mean to you today?

3. If you could go back and change one thing in your life, what is it?

4. Favorite meal in prison?

5. Favorite meal when you got out of prison? 

6. Who is the one person you’d like to have as a mentor today?

7. What keeps you up at night?

8. Best gift your grandchildren have ever given you?

Sneaking in Couple More:

You are out and reliving your life. Do you fear any retribution from the cartel or they dragging you back?

What’s the power of the love of your wife?

The Impossible Question:

How did this experience change you and your purpose today?

The Wrap:

He loves a clean floor, the hugs from his grandchildren and wants you to read his book “The Church of Living Dangerously” John Lee Bishop thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Jorge Cham

We’re joined on the Starline by an engineer turned cartoonist, writer, producer and now podcaster. You’ve read his comic strip Piled Higher and Deeper and your kids might have seen “Elinor Wonders Why” on PBS Kids. His latest project is the podcast “ScienceStuff”. We welcome Jorge Cham.

Jorge, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Growing up, what question puzzled you and encouraged your love of science?

How did tackling these nagging science questions people have help sooth your scientific itch?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Did you ever create a robot and if you did, what did you name it?

2. Favorite of the Matrix films?

3. Best thing about your son?

4. How long did it take you to write your thesis without procrastination?

5. The Trick Question: Which is more fun, speaking to a group of scientists or children?

6. Favorite book festival?

7. Which cartoonist influenced your life?

8. Best memory of Georgia Tech?

Sneaking in a Couple More:

Who was your science teacher growing up that helped you become a better scientist?

Which episode of “ScienceStuff” will surprise people?

Where does your creativity come from?

Why should people listen to “ScienceStuff”?

One Big Question:

What is the one scientific question that has bothered you that no matter what the bosses tell you will be solved in “ScienceStuff”?

The Wrap:

Influenced by Calvin and Hobbes, created a robot cockroach and wants you to hear “ScienceStuff” Jorge Cham thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Chris DeVille:

We’re joined on the Starline by a journalist, managing editor at Stereogum and former reporter at Columbus Alive. His debut book is “Such Great Heights: The Complete Cultural History of the Indie Rock Explosion”. We welcome Chris DeVille.

Chris, let’s go Beyond the Mic. How did Liz Phair, Radiohead and Teen Age Riot change your life?

When researching this book how many times did you get lost in just listening to music again?

Each chapter of your book is accompanied by a soundtrack. Which song was the hardest to leave out from the soundtracks?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Biggest impact ACRN made to your life?

2. Best Ohio Bobcat basketball game you ever attended live?

3. First album you ever bought and do you still have it?

4. Favorite soccer memory?

5. Yes or no, have you seen the college radio documentary 35000 Watts?

6. Who is the most talented person you’ve worked with at Stereogum?

7. Most underrated band of all time?

8. Best Columbus dive bar is…

One Big Question:

What’s the one opinion from your book that people might be mad at, but you will die on that hill?

Where can people find you online?

The Wrap:                       

He thinks the most underrated band of all time is 1975, loves Colombus Crew soccer and wants you to read his book “Such Great Heights: The Complete Cultural History of the Indie Rock Explosion”. Chris DeVille, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Madison Watkins:

We’re joined on the Starline by a singer-songwriter who as a Bulldog state championship cheerleader thought 100 degree weather was not fun. She has opened for Elle King and Gwen Stefani and made it to the top 12 of American Idol. Her latest Christian EP “Letting Go” is out now. We welcome Madison Watkins.

Madison, let’s go Beyond the Mic.

You’re a survivor. Abusive relationships, mental health struggles, long distance relationship, making it so close to American Idol and yet you don’t give up. How has your resiliency evolved through these last 5 years?

You said once "Writing songs is my favorite way to get my feelings out without people knowing. How has songwriting helped you?

“Letting Go” details all the pain, revelation and life-altering self-discovery in your life as you suffered shingles, panic attacks and hopeless feelings you encountered on a daily basis. How has letting go healed your heart?

“You won’t” is the first song you ever wrote about faith. What changes have you discovered in yourself?

When you played “You Won’t” for your parents you recorded their reaction in the car. What were the emotions you were experiencing as they listened?

The Rockin' 8:

Madison Watkins latest EP is “Letting Go”. Madison, it’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. When was the last time you talked with Miss Arkansas Outstanding Teen 2009 aka your old friend Miss America 2017 Savvy Shields?

2. Favorite flavor of yogurt?

3. If you could give your long distance boyfriend one thing right now, what would you give him?

4. What was your first guitar and do you still have it?

INSTANT Followup: What string do you break the most on it.

5. Do you remember all the jobs you had in LA that you did just to make rent?

6. Favorite Disneyworld ride?

7. You’ve always said your hair had superpowers, but if you could have superpowers, what would they be?

8. What was your typical McDonalds order?

The Back Half:

Place in the world you want to visit if you could RIGHT now?

How has your fans the “Mad Squad” give you the support you need as you change your musical focus?

What is the power of a song?

What have you realized about yourself from music?

Why has changing your focus given you peace?

You once told your parents you “had no worth”. How have you risen like a phoenix from darkness to the light of today?

Madison, you talk about movement. When you were 22 years old, you created your own non-profit “The Glow Movement”. How did helping kids pursue dreams change the way you see your own dreams?

That bad ex-boyfriend you talked about earlier, wanted you to dress more sexily, post those photos more and it almost destroyed you. How has leaving him helped you discover who you really are and discover what love is?

Music:

How do you write a song? What is your musical process?

Who inspires you musically today?

How did your breakdown allow you to create a stronger foundation for the woman you are today?

What accomplishment will truly tell your heart that you finally made it?

Two Big Questions:

Have your dreams gotten so loud, doubt is hiding?

You said "I am working on my perspective every day because what people think about us, how much money we make, who we are dating, etc. is not worth dwelling on when we have a huge purpose for being on earth. I am learning... it's all about perspective." How has the way you examine your own perspective changed in the last year? How has your perspective changed?

The Wrap:

Madison hates changes guitar strings, wants to returns to the beach in Positano Italy. She wants you to hear her EP “Letting Go”. Madison Watkins thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Jason and Erica Redman:

We’re joined on the Starline by a former Navy SEAL who has undergone thirty-seven surgeries, 1,200 stitches and grueling years of rehab along with his equally as powerful wife, confidante and co-founder of Eagle Rise Speakers Bureau. Their book is “Mission: Invincible Marriage”. We welcome Jason and Erica Redman. Before we begin, thank you for your service and your story.

Friends, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Your marriage is forged through friendship, values, commitment, rituals, support, communication, humor and adversity. Erica, how did Jason admitting one lie strengthen your love together?

Jason, why was sharing this mission plan important and which chapter was the hardest for you to learn yourself?

Erica, how did Jason strengthen your marriage on a daily basis?

The Rockin' 8:

“Mission: Invincible Marriage” is the book Jason and Erica It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure. Since we have two guests we’ll alternate questions.

1. Erica, favorite space in your Riverview Centre event space?

2. Jason, best thing about your kids?

3. Erica, one thing about Jason that makes you smile, other than letting him drive the RV through New York?

4. Jason, best thing about your dog?

5. Erica, which is your favorite of the Patriot Hard Seltzer?

6. Jason, what’s your max bench?

7. Erica, what do you dislike more, Burpees, Reverse Lunges or Bicycle Crunches? 

8. Jason, what’s the one thing that Erica makes you when you are sick?

Sneaking in One More:

Who is the one speaker from Eagle Rise Speakers that knocked you down figuratively when you first heard them speak?

One Big Question:

When was your darkest day?

The Wrap:

She loves his sense of humor and his dog loves him unconditionally. They want you to read their book is “Mission: Invincible Marriage”. Jason and Erica Redman thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

We’re joined on the Starline by a simple mechanic from New Jersey with more than four decades of experience in automotive and racing industries. He has worked with the biggest names in racing and now told his story to Joe Garner. It’s called “Trophies and Scars”.

We welcome the NASCAR Hall of Famer who loves building fast cars Ray Evernham.

Ray, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Why was telling your story important to you and which was the biggest scar?

As you talked to Joe, was there one story you held back on telling him because it was too personal, or did you let it all hang out?

Always looking to the future, your Lakota tribe name is Megaso, or eagle. How has motor sports improved from when you started to today?

Have cars gotten too fast due to technology?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. You lent Roger Penske a quarter and it was a good investment in your future. Other than Jeff Gordon and family, who’s the one person you enjoyed helping succeed?

2. Favorite car you’ve ever owned?

3. Car you never liked?

4. Best memory of Hazlet, New Jersey?

5. Best NASCAR track right now?

6. What’s your daily driver?

7. If you were not going to be in racing, what career would you have liked to try?

8. Best thing about Erin?

The Back Half:

You recently acquired the IROC brand, which you say in your book taught you “discipline and gave me the skills to run a winning team”. I know you plan to offer entertainment services and exhibitions. BUT, is there a possibility of bringing back the International Race of Champions?

How does that make you feel?

What kind of car would you like to run IROC to run today?

What’s your favorite racing memory?

You are big into helping other reach the dreams. What’s the biggest tip you have?

One Big Question:

You’ve been part of so many great races, people, friendships and stories in racing. Who is the one person you miss the most today?

Sneaking in One More:

Has your love of racing changed since you started?

The Wrap:

His wife is a bad ass sprint car driver, misses Dale Earnhardt and wants you to read his book “Trophies and Scars” Ray Evernham, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Krysten Ritter:

We’re joined on the Starline by actress, producer, musician, model and author of Bonfire. You’ve seen her on film andscreen. Her latest project is her second novel “Retreat”. We welcome Krysten Ritter.

Krysten, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Con woman Liz Dawson is on the run, from her marks to her own mother. Why is her escape from detection from her own deceptions a trap in itself?

How long did it take to write “Retreat” and how easy was it to get back into writing mode 8 years after “Bonfire”?

When you make the film, who would you love to cast as Tilly?

The Fast 5:

It’s time for the Fast 5, 5 random questions, there is no Pressure.

1. How long did it take you to record the audio book and how many cough drops did it take?

2. Which ride at Disneyland is your favorite?

3. Favorite Interpol song of all time?

4. Character you always wanted to play?

5. Last thing you have knitted?

Sneaking in One More:

Which character out of all of your roles do you relate the most to? Who influenced your love of acting?

One Big Question:

How has your own survival instincts grown from modelling and Hollywood found their way into “Retreat”?

The Wrap:

She loves Incredicoaster, last knitted a hat and wants you to read her novel “Retreat”. Krysten Ritter, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Mini.

Welcome Kelsie Watts

We’re joined on the Starline by an independent singer-songwriter on the rise. You’ve seen her in Season 19 of “The Voice”, performing with Trans-Siberian Orchestra and currently playing Jane Seymour in the Broadway production of “SIX: The Musical”. Her latest single is “Fit In” We welcome back our friend Kelsie Watts.

Kelsie, let’s go Beyond the Mic. You’ve sang in church, studied opera, and moved from your hometown of Lubbock, Texas to Nashville to now New York. How has music changed you?

How have you refused and yet tried to “Fit In” the music world?

What do you want people to take away from “Fit In”?

Who helped you making you fit in and don’t care about the normal musical path and just doing what makes you feel happy?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. You and your husband connected over the Lion King while in South Africa. What’s your favorite Disney princess?

2. First tattoo was of what and where is it?

3. The best Mexican food in Lubbock was what and where? What’s your typical order?

Instant follow up: What would you do if someone brought it to you?

4. Last music you purchased was by which artist?

5. If you could record a song with anyone, dead or alive, who would you want one recording session with?

6. Other than SIX, what Broadway role would be your dream role?

7. Have you gotten hit by a bicyclist in New York yet?

8. Favorite Christmas song? (Slightly mad that they put you on TSO East rather than TSO West so you could perform with friend of the show Al Pitrelli)

The Back Half:

What is the power of music to your soul?

You said recently “Happiness is where you are”. Even with all the success you have encountered, how has your view of happiness changed?

What’s the one comfort thing you have to have on the road?

Broadway:

Where did you find out you got the role in SIX?

How long did you take you to compose yourself?

For someone who may have never seen the show, what is it about and what does it mean to you?

Which of the Six sisters are you closest with?

Singers have periods of time where you have to be on vocal rest which drives you crazy. What is your typical warmup for 8 shows a week on Broadway now?

How many pairs of shoes have you gone through since you live in New York now walking everywhere?

Who is the coach / teacher that helped you the most along the way?

You’ve sang on Broadway, did the national anthem at Yankees Stadium. You’ve checked off some dreams…

Who is your football team? When was the last game you went to?

Jerry Jones, Kelsie needs to sing the national anthem!

You’ve checked off some dreams. What’s your next dream?

Family:

Best lesson from your mom?

What about your dad?

What’s the one chore your husband Brandon depends on you to do?

Sneaking in Two More:

How has the adversity you faced in “The Voice” actually the training you needed to be a great singer?

You process emotions, especially your grief through writing music in sometimes a dark world. Who helps you find the light on a daily basis?

One Big Question:

You once said "One of my biggest messages at an artist is to let everyone know they’re not alone. you don’t have to “fit in” to a box. be you". Who is Kelsie Watts?

Where can people find you online?

The Wrap:

Bring her Rosas Tortillas and she will love you forever and thinks the California Raisins Christmas album is the absolute best. She wants you to see her in Broadway in “SIX: The Musical” and hear “Fit In”. Kelsie Watts thanks for taking the time to talk with us today!

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Steve Williams:

We’re joined on the Starline by a man who was caddying since before he hit 10 and a Caddie Hall of Famer. He’s caddied for Greg Norman, Raymond Floyd, Adam Scott and a mysterious champion golfer. Reflections of caddying as part of the greatest player-caddie partnership ever is in the book “Together We Roared”. We welcome the co-author Steve Williams.

Steve, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Why was now the right time to tell all of these stories?

How did the way you communicated with a player evolve over the years?

"Tiger was too smart and mentally tough; it was nearly impossible to throw him off his game". If you could change one decision you made as a caddie, what was it?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Favorite dirt track to watch a race at?

2. Best dirt track to drive at?

3. Favorite course of all time?

4. Place you love to go when you retired?

5. Which year Mustang is your favorite?

6. Do you like the TGL indoor golf league or not?

7. Yes or no, will anyone ever come close to Tiger’s cut streak?

8. Which player on the tour impresses you now?

Sneaking in a Couple More:

What made Evin the perfect partner to co-write this book with?

“Woods and Nicklaus were such dominant players their presence high on a leaderboard could force rivals to press too hard”. How did your time caddying for Tiger Woods change the way you see and enjoy golf?

One Big Question:

Why was the 2002 NZ Open the one bonus you had to have after you were hired in 1999?

Would you come out of retirement for anyone or anytime?

The Wrap:

He loves St Andrews, relaxing in the Alps and wants you to read “Together We Roared”, Steve Williams thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Therese Curatolo:

We’re joined on the Starline by afun, funky singer, songwriter who has traveled the world. She’s sang at Coachella, also with Scary Pockets and Postmodern Jukebox. You’ve seen her in “Scorned: Love Kills” on ID Discovery. Her latest song is “Bad Dreams” It’s our friend Therese Curatolo.

I’m so glad to see my friends return. Therese, let’s go Beyond the Mic.

You said ‘The music industry isn’t moved by your potential, it’s moved by your momentum”. How has your momentum been since we last talked?

Why? 

Music has been a part of you with your dad and brother. What’s the one story of your dad as a professional musician that either encouraged you?

What about the stories that discouraged you?

You’ve written hope, love, dissed “Daniel” and now have “Bad Dreams”. Why is your music different and better now?

So what was the high?

How did Paul help you as a producer on “Daniel” and in general musically?

The Rockin' 8:

Therese Curatolo joins us Beyond the Mic. You’ve been dreading this but… It’s time for the Rockin’ 8. 8 random questions; answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. Therese , there is no Pressure.

1. Have you ever seen a shooting star and has your wish come true yet?

2. If you had to get rid of the color teal or orange forever, which one gets the heave ho?

3. The best Beatle is obviously…

4. Favorite color of makeup is…

5. Longest nap you’ve ever taken was how long?

6. Best thing about your orthodontist Dr. Tom?

7. Why does your cat Ding do that makes you smile?

8. Best thing you’ve found during your last thrifting expedition?

The Back Half:

Therese Curatolo joins us Beyond the Mic. I want to know the story of this photo:

Are you being a princess or Jasmine?

I loved that you pulled your brothers mask over his eyes so he couldn’t see. 

Well princess Jasmine, before you started touring as a musician you were a brand specialist and makeup artist. So would you ever want your own line of makeup and what would you call it?

So you have an unhealthy love affair with glitter. Some people have said that you were either a musician or stripper with the amount of glitter you own. What makes the herpes of crafting so much fun for you?

You brought up Reno. You started your college musical training with Dr. Katharine DeBoer at Nevada before auditioning with the Metropolitan Opera. How has your love of music changed from Reno to today?

How has the way you sing changed from your opera days to today?

Why have you allowed opening yourself to risks?

What’s your dream opera to sing?

What about a Broadway show?

Lows:

Therese Curatolo joins us Beyond the Mic. (roller coaster click click click now the drop)

So what was that low and how did you overcome that adversity?

How did leaving allow you growth?

Which musician would you love as a mentor?

So why did the late great Brian Wilson touch you heart and change your life?

What’s the power as songwriter of giving away a song?

So who would you love to mentor?

Your fans are called bing bongs. What are your enemies called?

I’ve always said you were an old soul. What era of music would you have fit into best?

What’s the last guitar you bought and have you been put on the banned persons list at Fanny’s yet?

How has the music scene changed from when you begin?

So Reese, my friend, why do you keep doing it?

It’s almost impossible achieving a podcast hit, how much harder is it for a musician to break through today?

Obsessions:

Our friend Therese Curatolo joins us Beyond the Mic, What are you obsessed with now?

Why is it easier and yet harder the more people see you for you to get to where you want to be musically?

Why does writing heartbreak folk soothe the pains in your own heart?

Speaking of scabs, have you let the heartache of “Daniel” finally go or are you still hanging on to it?

Going on the road is tough as a musician. You’re challenged by being away from home, and also tests your strength staying sober and smiling in times that are tough. How has going on the road changed and challenged you in the last five years?

Beyond the Mic makes you think, laugh and go “dammit Sean”. So why did you want to come back?

Who’s the one person you still want to sing with or for?

You’ve had strange problems with men. What’s the strangest skeleton you found in a guys closet?

What makes a good song?

When songwriting, what opens up your creative side?

What’s next for you musically?

Time for the Uncomfortable Question:

You’ve modeled, acted, sang, lived, lost and loved. What makes you happy now?

One Big Question:

What’s the best lesson your mom has ever given you? (You and me empaths)

The Wrap:

The best Beatle is obviously George, misses the genius of Brian Wilson and wants you to hear her latest single “Bad Dreams”. Our friend Therese Curatolo thanks for returning with us today

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic XL.

Welcome Giacomo Gianniotti:

We’re joined on the Starline by an actor, producer, director, biker, lover and Lostboy. You’ve seen him in Grey’s Anatomy, Reign and heard him in Luca. His latest project is playing Detective Cole Ellis in “Wild Cards” on the CW. We welcome Giacomo Gianniotti.

Giacomo, let’s go Beyond the Mic. What makes Vanessa Morgan such a treat to be your characters foil each week?

How is “Wild Cards” different than any other cop show?

But no trust will ever exist between you two right?

Have you ever met someone like Max in your real life?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. For the Marvel’s Avengers video game you voiced Clint Barton. Who’s your favorite superhero that isn’t Hawkeye?

2. Restaurant in Rome that you love to eat?

3. Thing from the Wild Card set that found its way home to your home?

4. Favorite class from the Cardinal Carter Academy for the Arts? Drama class

5. Project that you think didn’t get the respect you thought it should?

6. Best soccer match you’ve ever seen live?

7. Last video game you played that you didn’t voice something for?

8. One chore Nichole depends on you to do?

Sneaking In Couple More:

You once said “Just a reminder today to everyone who is single or alone that, the most important love of all and the first one you should desire, is a deep love of yourself. Once that is found the next one is surely on the way!”  How did finding love of yourself change the way you see love?

Which is your favorite episode of “Wild Cards” so far?

Who inspired you to be an actor and what would you tell them today?

One Big Question:

Why did prioritizing your own mental health help you and the ones who love you?

The Wrap:

Mrs. O’Brien, you taught him right, loved watching Italy win the World Cup in 2006 and wants you to watch “Wild Cards” on the CW. Giacomo Gianniotti, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Laura Ingle:

We’re joined on the Starline by a reporter, Edward R Murrow award winning journalist and mom. Her latest project is hosting “Crime Nation” on the CW. We welcome anchor of NewsNation Live and senior correspondent Laura Ingle.

Laura, let’s go Beyond the Mic.  The true-crime and justice anthology series is back for another season. What do you want viewers to take from each roller coaster thrill ride as you connect the dots with analysis, exclusive reporting and some never-before-seen interviews, some you haven’t ever seen till today?

Greta Van Susteren said “none better than Laura Ingle at reporting”. Where did you get your passion for storytelling?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. What’s the one thing you always have to remind your son Jackson to do that isn’t cleaning up his room?

2. Do you know where your four Golden Mike Awards are right now, or are they packed away in a box?

3. One thing that your husband Kenny did that made you fall in love with him?

4. What career would you have liked to be if you hadn’t gone into journalism?

5. Best ride at Hershey Park? What’s your favorite at Disney ?

6. Who is tougher Ashleigh Banfield or Vinnie “the Hitman” Politan?

7. Where was the last New York Mets game you went to and did they win?

8. You’ve walked many crime scenes in your career, which one gave YOU the creeps?

Sneaking in One More:

Is there a case from your past that you wanted to have covered by “Crime Nation”?

Two Big Questions:

With evil out there, how does holding your own family tight when you get home change the way you see the world?

In reviewing some of these cases you’ve dealt with some of the most evil people in the world. How do you see justice today and which episode of “Crime Nation” unnerved you?

The Wrap:

She would have been a lawyer, has to remind her son to brush his teeth and wants you to watch “Crime Nation” on the CW. Laura Ingle thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Keith Carradine:

We’re joined on the Starline by legendary actor and musician. You’ve seen him in “Hair”, “The Will Rogers Follies”, “Deadwood”, “Dexter” and more than 150 projects. Golden Globe, Oscar winner and Hall of Great Western Performers, we welcome Keith Carradine.

Keith, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Your latest project is “The Devil and the Daylong Brothers”. “…but there ain’t no take backs with the devil” What makes this role as Nehemiah Daylong so much fun for you?

What made working with Brendan, Nican, and Jordon great for you?

How do you chose roles today, does it have to be something special or are you always ready for something different?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. If you hadn’t chosen acting or musician as a career path, what would you have loved to do as a career?

2. Favorite Broadway musical that you didn’t star in?

3. If you had to pick one type of character to play for the rest of your life, would it be the good guy or the bad guy?

4. Favorite Western movie of all time?

5. Which role is the one that didn’t get the love you thought it should have?

6. The Impossible Choice. What’s the best of the following: Gunsmoke, Maverick, Rawhide or Wagon Train?

7. What was your favorite memory of your palomino Taco?

8. (I know you hate reboots, but) If you could reboot an old Western for today, what would you choose?

Sneaking in One More:

Why will people be surprised by “The Devil and the Daylong Brothers”?

One Big Question:

What would your dad think about all the success and all the blessings the Carradine family has had in a career well spent?

Where can people see “The Devil and the Daylong Brothers”?

What are you working on NEXT?

The Wrap:

Keith would love to see a reboot of Maverick and still has fond memories of his horse Taco. He wants you to watch “The Devil and the Daylong Brothers”. The legendary Keith Carradine, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome William Lee Golden:

We’re joined on the Starline by one fourth of the band with Grammy’s, Dove, ACM & CMA awards. Out on their American Made farewell tour right now. We welcome the golden baritone of the legendary Country Music Hall of Fame band The Oak Ridge Boys William Lee Golden.

William, let’s go Beyond the Mic. You’ve been fortunate as part of such a special band that has made an impact on country music and lives around the world. What does music mean to you?

You’ve talked about the losses. In the past 18 months, you’ve lost 16 friends, family members and parts of your heart. Why have the love of your family, wife, kids, grandkids, strengthened you all these years?

The Oak Ridge Boys video “Come on Home” was filmed at your Golden Era Plantation. Why is Golden Era special to you especially after getting hit by two tornadoes?

The Rockin' 8:

William Lee Golden from The Oak Ridge Boys is here Beyond the Mic and it’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. You are known for it, but when was the last time you shaved your legendary beard?

2. If you were to be reincarnated as an animal, which animal would it be?

3. What’s the one chore at home your wife depends on you to do?

4. Favorite gospel song of all time?

5. Which place you’ve visited that a photo or painting could never capture its beauty?

6. Do you prefer beaches or mountains?

7. What was your 1st guitar and do you still have it?

8. Best meal on the road was where and of what?

Sneaking in A Couple More:

My favorite Oak Ridge Boys song is Baby When Your Heart Breaks Down cause I used the 1 minute version to time up to news when I worked overnights. What’s yours?

What does this one last tour that doesn’t have an end yet mean to you?

How have the fans of the Oak Ridge Boys changed your life?

How has your vision of life changed from you 1st started this journey?

One Big Question:

When people look back at your life and everything you have touched, what do you want them to remember?

The Wrap:

He had to go to summer school growing up, would either be a bear or an eagle if he could. He wants you to see the Oak Ridge Boys out on tour near you.

William Lee Golden thank you for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Bill Brewster and Frank Broughton:

We’re joined on the Starline by a former editor of MixMag USA , author and DJ. His tag team partner an award winning freelance creative director. 25 years ago, they put out the definitive history of the disc jockey in “Last Night a DJ Saved My Life”. It’s been updated for a new generation. We welcome the authors Bill Brewster and Frank Broughton.

Friends, let’s go Beyond the Mic. This book is your kid who hasn’t left the house and still lives in the basement. Tell us the story on how you decided to write it.

How has the power of the DJ diminished with streaming music and technology allowing anyone to be a DJ?

You say “Your value as a DJ no longer hinges on dull technical skills like beatmixing, but on emotion, sensitivity and musicality.” Where do you see DJ’s in another 20 years Bill?

Frank?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure. Since we have 2 guests, we’ll alternate questions.

1. Bill, what’s the one thing you love to cook for guests?

2. Frank, favorite memory of your and Bill’s 1st Low Life party?

3. Bill, which country in your Asia tour intrigues you for clubs?

4. Frank, best festival you ever played?

5. Bill, best thing about Frank?

6. Frank, best thing about Bill?

7. Bill, which album changed you forever?

8. Frank, first vinyl you ever purchased and do you still have it?  

One Big Question:

Why does music touch your soul and how has it changed you immeasurably today?

The Wrap:

Bill will cook you an ossobuco if he really likes you while Frank’s favorite was Festival #6. They both want you to read their updated book “Last Night a DJ Saved My Life”. Bill Brewster and Frank Broughton thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Alberto Belli and Adam Bonnett:

We’re joined on the Starline by a director and an executive producer. One likes Trenta Iced Coffee while the other loves the “Hunchback of Notre Dame”. Every child growing up in the last 25 years knows of a Latina heroine. Dora the Explorer and Nickelodeon and Paramount + give us a brand new family movie in “Dora and the Search for Sol Dorado” premiering July 2nd. We welcome Alberto Belli and Adam Bonnett.

Friends, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Why was it important to not only tell this story but to do it in live action?

Alberto, how does Samantha capture Dora?

Adam, why has Dora been such a powerful character for the last 25 years?

The Rockin' 8:

Alberto Belli and Adam Bonnett from “Dora and the Search for Sol Dorado” July 2nd on Nickelodeon and Paramount + join us Beyond the Mic and it’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure. Since we have two guests we’ll alternate questions.

1. Alberto, favorite ride at Disneyworld?

2. Adam, have you ever been slimed?

3. Alberto, favorite x-men?

4. Adam, you once said "If you stay at the party long enough, someone is bound to make you the host.” What makes the best party?

5. Alberto, best memory of your short “Nota di Amore”?

6. Adam, do you remember your 1st play you attempted to sing in Hebrew?

7. Alberto, who is the one person you would love to work with on a project?

8. Adam, who is the one direct you would love to work with on a project?

Sneaking in A Couple More:

What do you want the fans to take away from this film?

Two Big Questions:

How has Dora the Explorer changed the world?

What do you see in Dora’s future?

The Wrap:

Adam played Nathan Detroit singing Guys and Dolls in Hebrew, Alberto would love to work with Spielberg. Dora and the Search for Sol Dorado premieres July 2nd on Nickelodeon and Paramount + Alberto Belli and Adam Bonnett thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome C.M. Kushins:

We’re joined on the Starline by a musician, journalist and author of “Nothing’s Bad Luck: The Lives of Warren Zevon” and “Beast: John Bonham and the Rise of Led Zeppelin”. His latest book is “Cooler than Cool” on the great author Elmore Leonard. We welcome C. M. Kushins.

C.M., let’s go Beyond the Mic. Why was this the right time to tackle the life and work of Elmore Leonard?

Marguerite Harper, a New York literary agent gave him the advice “Don’t give up your job to write.” Why was that one piece of advice important for his future?

Leonard was the master of research. You took seven years to write your first book. What was the one fact from your research that amazed you about him?

The Rockin' 8:

“Cooler than Cool” is the book the author C.M. Kushins joins us Beyond the Mic, it’s time for the Rockin’ 8. 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Last book you read that wasn’t your own?

2. Who is the most underappreciated director today?

3. Favorite of all the Leonard novels?

4. Leonard loved Joe Cocker, who’s your favorite musician?

5. Best Warren Zevon song is…

6. Favorite Led Zeppelin album?

7. One chore your wife Diana depends on you to do?

8. Have you written a million words yet?

Sneaking in One More:

What is your favorite “Dutch” story?

One Big Question:

Chad, how did a thick manila envelope sent from Elmore change you forever?

The Wrap:

He veganizes his moms recipes, loves Warren Zevon’s Mutineer and wants you to read “Cooler than Cool” C.M. Kushins thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome :

We’re joined on the Starline by a comedian, storyteller and amazing woman who was tired of being ghosted, bad dates and just dealing with men. So she went Boysober, a yearlong break from sex and dating. The result is the “Boysober” podcast and we welcome its host Hope Woodard.

Hope, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Plenty of people have sworn off dating, even myself after my divorce. What made this rebirth of yourself rewarding after a year away from drama and the dating scene?

You examine love, romance and who you are in “Boysober”. What’s the one thing that you discovered that you like about yourself that you didn’t see before?

How did your parents help or hurt teaching you what love meant?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Best place in Brooklyn for a food?

2. If you had to get rid of Topo Chico or Wine forever, which gets the heave ho?

3. Best band you ever heard at Bonnaroo?

4. The best cereal is what?

5. Favorite memory from your time in Africa?

6. Three things you can’t live without?

7. Best memory as a Chi Omega and when was the last time you visited your old house?

8. Last Tennessee sporting event you attended? And who was it against?

Sneaking in a couple more:

What’s the weirdest thing someone has asked on the "Boysober" hotline?

Why has this "boysober" period changed you forever?

One Big Question:

We’ve get to climb our own Mount Everest’s every day. So what’s the one thing you want to achieve before your next big birthday?

The Wrap:

She loves bringing community together and won’t live without wine or coffee. We thank host of the “Boysober” podcast Hope Woodard thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome:

We’re joined on the Starline by one of Sweden’s most respected music journalists. He has developed a close relationship with the band ABBA. His book “The Story of ABBA: Melancholy Undercover” is out. We welcome and wish a happy belated birthday to Jan Gradvall.

Jan, let’s go Beyond the Mic. ABBA had been extremely private. What was the key to gaining their trust for “The Story of ABBA” after they hadn’t given an interview for nearly 30 years.

Does it amaze them that the popularity, even after a half a century from when their songs were recorded, still is huge today?

What’s the one fact from your research about the band that amazes you even today?

The Rockin' 8:

Jan Gradvall, author of “The Story of ABBA”  It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Which of the more than 30 books you’ve contributed to didn’t get the respect you thought it should have?

2. Best place to see a sunset?

3. Favorite place in Linkoping?

4. Near sighted or Far sighted?

5. The best ABBA song is obviously…

6. Your least favorite ABBA song sadly is…

7. Best thing about your dachshund Maiko?

8. What is the name of the trophy given out annually at the Super Bowl?

Sneaking in One More:

You said once “By collecting my journalism, a kind of alternative autobiography emerges.” What is the power of storytelling?

One Big Question:

You’ve been enjoying a career in music journalism since 1979. How has the way you enjoy music changed from your own fanzine to today?

The Wrap:

Love his dachshund Maiko, “Knowing Me, Knowing You” and wants you to read his book “The Story of ABBA”. Jan Gradvall thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Leah Rothman:

We’re joined on the Starline by a writer, producer, director who has worked for countless companies sharing stories and getting to the bottom of documentary, true crime and much more. Her latest project is the podcast “The Real Killer”. We welcome Leah Rothman.

Leah, let’s go Beyond the Mic. “The Real Killer” sounds like a bad 80’s horror movie 4 teens go out for a night of fun and by daylight one is dead. What was the one fact from this case that intrigued you from the start?

There’s enough twists in this story to throw out your back. Was there ever a point where you said, “c’mon, this can’t be real”?

Which episode (no spoilers) will make people go woah!

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure. 

1. Best thing about your dog Dexter?

2. Other than telling stories, what is your best crafty type hobby?

3. Last Broadway show you went to see?

4. During a road trip, are you a designated driver or passenger princess?

5. Are you afraid of the dark more than clowns?

6. Favorite memory of CrimeCon?

7. Best thing from Ohio State that you learned that didn’t involve a beer bong?

8. If you were going to be a killer, what would be your weapon of choice?

Sneaking in Couple More:

You languished about starting this podcast. What was the kick in the butt that made you do it?

How did this story change the way you look at the world and people?

What’s your next project?

True Crime One Big Question:

In the world filled with innocent people jailed and guilty people sometimes free, where do you see justice today?

The Wrap:

She’s the designated driver on road trips, loves snuggling with her dog Dexter and wants you to listen to her podcast “The Real Killer” Leah where can people find you online?

Leah Rothman thank you so much for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Carlo Mendez:

We’re joined on the Starline by an actor and producer where acting runs in the family. You’ve seen him in “Parks and Recreation”, “The Bay” and now on Showtime’s “Dexter: Original Sin”. We welcome Carlo Mendez. 

Carlo, let’s go Beyond the Mic. In The Bay, you played an officer. Now you get to let your bad boy out as cartel boss Hector Estrada. Which do you enjoy more, playing the good guy or the bad boy?

You said once “Every time I book an acting job I feel like a kid at Disneyland, I can’t believe it and I’m all so excited that I can’t think straight.” Why did this role speak to you?

So there is a bit of imposter syndrome you have you to tackle.

When you booked the role and they told you there was a scene of you coming out of a pool, how did you bring up that you don’t know how to swim?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure. 

1. Favorite personality trait your dad gave you?

2. How much do you bench and for how many reps?

3. 3 favorite workout songs?

4. When you were young, you played little league baseball. What position did you play?

5. Cheat day meal is? Pizza bbq chicken

6. Last purchase you made over $10 that isn’t gas or groceries?

7. Best memory of your brother Juan Carlos? 

8. One thing you do that makes your nieces laugh?

Best and Worst:

What’s the best thing about being an actor and what’s the one thing that’s the worst?

How does each time you hit the set change the way you see your craft?

What did you want to be before an actor?

One Big Question:

Why was raising money for charities after losing your brother important for you and change the way you see charity?

The Wrap:

He listens to disco while working out, enjoys a BBQ Chicken pizza on cheat day and wants you to watch “Dexter: Original Sin” on Showtime. Carlo Mendez thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Kyle Tekiela:

We’re joined on the Starline by an Emmy Award winning producer & editor. He’s picking up the pieces after finding out his firefighter dad was actually a hitman for the Chicago Outfit. We welcome Kyle Tekiela.

Kyle, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Why was putting this all down in audio for your podcast “Crook County” important for you?

How did it make you feel when you found out your complicated father loved you and yet had dark secrets of drugs, prostitution and murder?

You say “This ain’t your godfather’s Mafia story. Because it’s my father’s mafia story, and I’ve got a lot of fucking questions.” What’s the one question you still don’t have an answer for?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure. 

1. Best thing about your son playing hockey?

2. Since your wife is in the top 1.5 % of realtors in the country, what’s the one chore, while she’s selling, that you are always responsible for?

3. First guitar you ever bought and do you still have it?

4. Who is better at beer pong, you or your wife?

5. Least appreciated Starry Eyes song?

6. Who is the better pool player, you or your Grandpa Hank? 

7. Favorite place to vacation?

8. I asked RZA this when I talked to him for “Cut Throat City”, but if you could have who would you have added to the cast?

The Back Half:

What’s the power of family to you?

How has talking about this story change the way you see your father and the way you see being a dad?

What do you want people to take away from Crook County?

What’s the one thing that blew your mind when you found out?

How is your relationship now?

One Big Question:

In doing the research for this podcast, how has your love of your dad changed and have you forgiven him?

The Wrap:

He crushes his wife at beer pong, still has his 1st candy apple red Fender strat and wants you to hear his powerful family story in “Crook County”. Kyle Tekiela, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Caroline D’Amore

We’re joined on the Starline by a powerhouse woman who has lived 9 lives, each one more impressive than the last. But she was conned and now on a mission of justice. Her podcast is “Once Upon a Con” we welcome host Caroline D’Amore.

Caroline, let’s go Beyond the Mic. You’ve been a businesswoman, DJ, actress and fashion model. How did your search for justice as a crusader begin?

Once you confronted David, how did exposing him as a manipulator and predator make you feel?

What do you want people learning in “Once Upon a Con” so they don’t get taken?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure. 

1. Do you know where your New York International Film and TV Festival Gold Medal for “Rollers” is? Burndt down in  (oh no)

2. How many pies did you deliver to firefighters fighting the California Wildfires? Thousands (very cool)

3. Most underrated pie that you love? Peopperoni pineapple and jalepenos

4. You once said “People are always saying to follow your dreams ...... So I went back to sleep” Do you dream and what was your last dream of?

5. Which flavor of your Pizza Girl sauces is your favorite?

6. Best thing about your daughter Bella?

7. What’s the one thing you want your daughter to learn from your life? Always stand up for others

8. 3 favorite songs to mix?

Sneaking in A Couple More:

Which episode got you a bit emotional recording? (quiet wow)

How has this experience changed the way you trust others?

Why does your heart filled with hope?

What will justice for David mean for you?

One Big Question:

How has overcoming adversity helped you become stronger every day?

The Wrap:

She’s filled with love for family, food and justice. She wants you to listen to “Once Upon a Con”. Caroline D’Amore thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Chris Woolsey

We’re joined on the Starline by a friend of the program, and associate communications director at Vizio. We welcome back our friend Chris Woolsey.

You’re so kind my friend. Let’s go Binge Watching Beyond the Mic. Chris, Memorial Day has come and gone. Visio still has plenty of great military titles on WatchFree+. You used to have Cage Matches about the best Nicolas Cage movie. Which Nicolas Cage military movie fits?

Summer is here and the great blockbusters are coming. Which summer blockbuster are you looking forward to?

Ethan Hawke has been a favorite of mine from Gattaca to Training Day. Do you have any movie of his featured this month?

My son’s wedding was a war zone, but instead of talking about that, lets talk about “In Harm’s Way”.

Plenty of great sci-fi flicks are on Vizio. Give me three that I need to watch this summer?

Since we’ve last talked you celebrated a birthday. Happy Birthday! You watched a concert with your son. What’s the one thing you want to do with the family before the summer is over?

Since Vizio has 300 free live entertainment channels and 25,000 titles on demand, you always have something going. What’s the one underappreciated movie that we should watch this month?

Fast Four:

It’s time for the Fast 4, 4 sets of Random things. Going from easier to impossible. See if you can see what they all have in common, there is no Pressure.

#1 Puss in Boots, Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard, The Mask of Zorro

Fences, The Book of Eli, Training Day and Wilma

Danny Trejo, Michael Douglas, Owen Wilson

John Wayne, Kirk Douglas, Paula Prentiss and Burgess Meredith?  

Sneaking in One More:

Which type of movies does WatchFree+ has the most of action, sci-fi or comedy?

The Impossible Question:

If you couldn’t watch one actress for the rest of time from the following list: Katharine Hepburn. Nicole Kidman, Sigourney Weaver, Emma Stone, Elizabeth Taylor, Helen Mirren or Sandra Bullock. Who are you tossing out forever?

What’s the special movie from Katharine Hepburn, what about Nicole Kidman?

The Wrap:

Where can people find WatchFree+?

He’ll be back in July to get us ready for back to school, can’t wait to visit Europe on vacation and eliminated Sandra Bullock forever. He wants you to enjoy movies with Vizio.

Chris Woolsey, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Binge Watching Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Renee Kathleen Koher:

We’re joined on the Starline by an actress, graduate of the Hartt School of Music. You’ve seen her on Disney Cruise Lines, at Tokyo Disney and theatres around the world. She’s currently part of the national tour of “The Addams Family” playing Morticia. We welcome Renee Kathleen Koher.

Renee, let’s go Beyond the Mic.

You’ve played this role years ago at the Herbenger Theater Center in Arizona. What makes Morticia so special for you?

Carolyn, Bebe, Catherine, Anjelica all made special touches on the role. How is the fluidity and sensuality of Morticia different with your portrayal?

Did your years in ballet help with the fluidity of your movement?

Is this show your favorite one you’ve done before and if so why?

The Rockin' 8:

Renee Kathleen Koher joins us from the national tour of “The Addams Family” It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Best memory of your hometown of La Grange, Illinois?

2. Which do you prefer more, ballet, jazz or tap?

3. You spent many years as an aerial artist. What is the one thing people can never understand about the difficulty as being an aerial artist?

4. If you could speak another language that isn’t French, Japanese or Russian, what would you

learn next?

5. Best thing about your dog Charlie?

6. Last Buffalo Bills football game you saw in person?

7. Best musical you’ve seen but haven’t been a part of yet?

8. If I could make you the boss of Broadway with powers that could change it forever, what’s the one thing you’re doing?

The Back Half:

Renee Kathleen Koher from The Addams Family national tour joins us Beyond the Mic. Who inspired you onto this career path?

Who is the one teacher who helped you the most?

Hardest thing about maintaining a relationship on the road?

You’ve done several shows multiple times, “Mary Poppins”, “Best Little Whorehouse in Texas”, and now “The Addams Family”. What makes a show easy to go back to?

Why is this cast special for you?

Which is your favorite song from “The Addams Family” that you don’t have a part in?

What’s your favorite Broadway song of all time?

When out on the road, what’s the one comfort item you have brought to make you feel better?

The Future:

What’s your dream role?

Each of us has dreams for the future, what’s yours?

How has your family strengthened you as you share your love of theatre with others?

Who is the star that you look up to on Broadway now?

Best 50’s-80’s Broadway musical of all time?

What was the 1st Broadway musical that you saw?

One Big Question:

How has Broadway theatre changed you?

What will people take away from “The Addams Family”?

The Wrap:

She thanks Mr. Eschrist who cast her in her 1st role, loves Death Becomes her and wants you to see her in “The Addams Family” Renee Kathleen Koher thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Elizabeth Vargas:

We’re joined on the Starline by an award winning journalist, anchor, host, author, podcaster and proud mom. You can see her weeknights on NewsNation with “Elizabeth Vargas Reports”. We welcome Elizabeth Vargas.

Elizabeth, let’s go Beyond the Mic. You’ve hosted town halls, debates, 20/20, World News Tonight, even a syndicated crime series. How do you feel about the role of a journalist today?

You’ve written about your own struggles in “Between Breaths: A Memoir of Panic and Addiction”. How did overcoming that adversity make you a stronger parent and journalist today?

When people see “Elizabeth Vargas Reports” each day on NewsNation, what do you want them to learn or take away?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure. 

1. Which episode of your “Heart of the Matter” podcast is the one you are most proud of?

2. What was the best thing about your ball of fur Ellie who crossed the rainbow bridge recently?

3. During commercial breaks of your show, what do you do?

4. Favorite and least favorite holiday? 

5. Which beach is your go to vacation spot? 

6. Favorite flavor of cupcake and are you a sprinkles or plain?

7. One dish you want to perfect from your dad?

8. Most important thing you want your sons to learn other than cleaning their room and put their clothes in the hamper?

The Impossible Question:

“Relapse is part of recovery and we need to get the world to understand that”. How do you see the future of the Partnership to End Addiction?

One Big Question:

What’s the one lesson you’ve learned from your life in media and what do you still eager learning next?

The Wrap:

She wants to perfect her dad Paella, loves Malibu and wants you to watch “Elizabeth Vargas Reports” on NewsNation. Elizabeth, thanks for taking the time to talk with us.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Ollie Palmer:

We’re joined on the Starline by an athlete, clothing designer and former roofer and still recovering from Las Vegas. You’ve seen him play everywhere especially in FX’s “Welcome to Wrexham”. We welcome Ollie Palmer.

Ollie, let’s go Beyond the Mic. You’ve been part of the success of the Red Dragons. What makes Welcome to Wrexham difficult yet rewarding in watching?

How has the series changed the way you see yourself and your future?

What are your plans post Wrexham? Would you like a season or two in the US or finish off your pro career in the UK?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Favorite piece from your WXM clothing line?

2. One thing Caitlin depends on you to do at home?

3. First tattoo was of what?

4. Favorite World Cup match you’ve seen live was where and will you watch the World Cup in the US?

5. Soccer player who inspired you?

6. What’s your dream car?

7. Best lesson you want your son and daughter to take away from your life?

8. Would you retire of the Reds went back to back to back to back???

Sneaking in Couple More:

“Remember to keep working hard & believe in the process even when things don’t feel like they are improving, no matter how long it takes, it always will!”  What makes Wrexham so special to you?

When people see this season of “Welcome to Wrexham” what do believe they will be surprised by?  

One Big Question:

You are always pushing for the little guy, 7 years ago you were supporting your cousin Frankie who passed from Osteosarcoma Cancer. What makes fighting for the little guy, like Wrexham important for you?

I have to ask, will it be back to back to back to back?

The Wrap:

Caitlin depends on him to cut the grass, his first tattoo was inspired by his uncle and his granddad. He wants you wants you to watch “Welcome to Wrexham” on FX. Ollie Palmer, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Shannon Fiedler:

We’re joined on the Starline by a comedian, writer, actress, content creator and nacho enthusiast. You’ve seen her on “Two Weeks Notice”, “Law & Order: SVU” and all over TikTok. Her comedy special on YouTube is “Thirty, Flirty and Crying”. We welcome comedian Shannon Fiedler.

Shannon, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Your special is a female run production. How did Laura and Jayme help you find the right feel for your special?

You’re known for your city girl impressions. Which city girl is your personal favorite?

The Rockin' 8:

Her comedy special on YouTube is “Thirty, Flirty and Crying” Shannon Fiedler, it’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. When making nachos, what are the key ingredients for perfection?

2. Favorite flavor of Gushers candy snacks?

3. Since you starred in both commercials, which do you use more, Crest White Strips or Angel Soft?

4. Who is harder on criticizing your jokes, mom, dad or husband?

5. 1st guitar you’ve ever gotten, what string have you broken the most?

6. Worst ad you had to write copy for as a copywriter was for what type of product?

7. Favorite Idiom?

8. Which is harder, being a comedian or future soccer mom?

Sneaking in Couple More:

You once said "Female friendship can be summed up as complaining about your period, sharing chapsticks and texting each other “what should I eat?”" Has your thoughts on female friendship changed or evolved?

You’ve been on the “Pregnancy Brain Tour”. What’s your favorite and least favorite thing on the road during the tour?

Evolving from figure skating to dancing to comedy. How has comedy scratched your creative itch?

Are you excited for the alien retrieval aka the  birth of your son?

One Big Question:

How has making “Thirty, Flirty and Crying” changed you and prepared you for your next special?

The Wrap:

Her mom is her biggest critic, breaks the e string on her guitar the most and want you to see her special “Thirty, Flirty and Crying”. Shannon Fiedler, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Matthew Specktor:

We’re joined on the Starline by an author and screenwriter. Some of his novels are “Always Crashing in the Same Car” and “Hollywood Dream Machine” among other interesting tales. His latest is “The Golden Hour: A Story of Family and Power in Hollywood”. We welcome Matthew Specktor.

Matthew, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Art and business are always diametrically opposed in Hollywood. Why will this conflict never really be resolved?

You’ve had stars at your house growing up as son of a legendary super-agent. How hard is it for you to see Hollywood impartially?

“I will learn about beauty and I will learn about fear, discover the truth of a muddled terror that has begun, already, to clutch at my heart.” Why has Hollywood changed for the better and worse since your early days?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Most underrated person in Hollywood?

2. Favorite Jack Nicholson movie?

3. The name of the best script that you have ever read that never will be made?

4. Best Warren Zevon song?

5. Do you remember the name of the woman you took on your 1st ever date when you watched Moonraker?

6. Best lesson your dad ever taught you?

7. Favorite class at Hampshire College?

8. Best concert you ever saw live?

The Impossible Question:

How did the Palisades fire effect you, your family and memories of your childhood?

Two Big Questions:

“I’m out on a limb, because how do you know when what you love is truly loveable?” How has you love of Hollywood evolved?

If you could describe your love of Hollywood in 5 words or less, what would those words be?

The Wrap:

He loves “The King of Marvin Gardens” was taught loyalty by his dad and wants you to read his book “The Golden Hour: A Story of Family and Power in Hollywood”. Matthew Specktor thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Illeana Kirven:

We’re joined on the Starline by an award winning singer, actor, dancer, director and choreographer. You’ve seen her in the national tour of “The Sunshine Boys” among hundreds of other shows. Her latest project is playing Matron Momma Morton on the National Tour of “CHICAGO, The Musical”. We welcome Illeana Kirven.

Illeana, let’s go Beyond the Mic. The pandemic and a casting agent were adversity you had to overcome before you got here. How did overcoming those moments make playing Matron Momma Morton so sweet 8 times a week?

You researched the trial behind the play. What’s the one fact that you discovered that amazed you?

Why is Chicago such a great musical?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Best BTS song is…

2. Other than your BTS Funko Pop! Figurines, what’s the one thing from home you had to bring with you?

3. Favorite amusement park in Texas and what was your favorite ride?

4. You are called the “Re-inventress” supreme of your career, who is the one person who encouraged you on this road that isn’t related to you?

5. What’s the one meal that only your momma could make?

6. Favorite theatre from all around the world?

7. Who are the three women not related to you that inspire you every day? 

8. When eating a smore, how do you like your marshmallows cooked: slightly brown or burned?

The Back Half:

Where did you get you love of music?

So who is the non BTS musical artist that you always sing?  

What did you warm up to last night?

You have performed from coast to coast for plenty of years. What makes this adventure so important to you?

Who are the people you worked with on Chicago that you are the momma to on the road?

What is your best road trip tip?

Where is the 1st place you have to find when you arrive at a new city?

Advice:

Illy, you toured with the late greats Frank Gorshen and Dick Van Patton. What piece of advice did they share with you on the road?

If you could share the stage with one actor or actress dead or alive, for just one night. Who would it be?

Your production company says “Theatre is art. Why do we invest in a piece of artwork? Because we have a special appreciation for it.” How did you appreciation of art begin and evolve?

Best memory from your mother?

What makes Chicago: the Musical so special for you?

So many people have played this role and have put their own touch on it. What’s the one thing that you used in your portrayal of the character?

Who taught you to hustle, love and shine?

What does it mean when you’re back home in Texas?

One Big Question:

You once said "Have a blessed day. And if your day is not so blessed, you are capable of making it so!" How has your experience spreading love and joy through music changed you and others?

The Wrap:

Where can people find you online?

Illeana Kirven can’t cook her momma’s fried chicken and loves thrifting in every place she goes. She plays Matron Momma Morton in “CHICAGO, The Musical”, Illy thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Jenn Swann

We’re joined on the Starline by an award-winning journalist, editor and producer. She has written about online fame, fandom and misunderstood communities. She tells the stories that few people want to, but need to. Her latest project is hosting the podcast “My Friend Daisy: A Murder Solved in DM’s”. We welcome Jenn Swann.

Jenn, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Why did Daisy De La O’s story touch your heart and soul?

Social media has been demonized by some, but in this case it brought eye to a flawed investigation. What are the good and bad things from a case solved in DM’s?

How do you see Daisy today differently than when you began this process?

What’s the most interesting fact from this case that amazed you?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Which social media channel is your favorite and least favorite?

2. Which is better, a tableside Caesar salad or a tableside bananas foster?

3. When you Netflix and Chill, what type of movie are you looking for 1st?

4. Even though you used to hate it, where was the last place you went camping?

5. How do you enjoy a hot dog?

6. Best thing you ever created at art summer camp?

7. Last time you went to a Chicago baseball game was when and which team? 

8. How has podcasting changed your life?

Sneaking in A Couple More:

When you started working as a research editor for Imagination back in 2012, did you ever think you’d be working on a project with Paris Hilton today?

Who is the person who influenced you to become the journalist you are today?

Best lesson your late dad gave you?

Why is sharing stories from misunderstood communities important to you?

One Big Question:

After telling Daisy’s story, what does justice mean for you today?

The Wrap:

She has to have mustard on her hot dog, wishes the White Sox should have more fan support and wants you to hear the podcast “My Friend Daisy: A Murder Solved in DM’s”. Jenn Swann thanks for taking the time to talk to us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Kiliii Yüyan:

We’re joined on the Starline by one of the most empathetic explorers around. His photography has won awards, he has survived a polar bear on the hunt and charmed sea snakes. He’s out on tour talking about the “Life on Thin Ice” as a National Geographic explorer. We welcome Kiliii Yüyan.

Kiliii, let’s go Beyond the Mic as a photographer of wild places, things and people, you’ve immersed yourself in the world. Why is your heritage so important to you?

How important is preserving Indigenous history and your heritage to you?

When you embed yourself in an Indigenous community you spend weeks building trust. How hard is it for you to leave after contributing to their membership?

Do you communicate them after you leave?

When you are out on a shoot how does communicating with your own family change?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. How many kayaks have you built and do you still have your 1st one?

2. Where is the one place you haven’t visited you still want to?

3. Do you have different nicknames from different tribes or a nickname that has stuck?

4. You’re known for your grin, why was the last time you frowned?

5. Favorite photograph of yours that people haven’t seen yet?

6. Favorite type of whale?

7. Last thing you either hunted or fished?

8. What’s your typical meal on the road and at home?

The Back Half:

How has the way you see the world change after floating under the sea and under ice?

“The greatest thing– the only thing – to sustain an artist, is the work itself.” What does it mean for you when youth embrace your work and gets a spark of inspiration from your life?

How has the way you grow relationships changed from when you 1st started?

Speaking of starting 1st, how do you go from a BHA in design, metaphysics and cognition to being an award winning photographer?

“The world is full of stories. But how many of these stories don’t just tell us what we already know”. I want to know your favorite story.

Learning:

Who taught you how to first build a Kayak and how important is it for you to pass it on?

Who helped you become a better photographer then? 

Why is storytelling important to you and to your future?

Where is the place where you learned the most?

The indigenous people were originally isolated by circumstances. Are they now somewhat isolated by design and how does technology change their isolation?

I know you don’t have a bucket list. But what is the one story you haven’t tackled yet?

One Big Question:

“Sea ice is the basis for life in the Arctic, but those who weren’t raised in the North are hard-pressed to understand how the ice is changing.” What is the future problems that face the people of the Arctic?

When people see your talk “Life on Thin Ice”, what’s the thing you want them to take from it?

The Wrap:

He’s doesn’t have a bucket list and always eats ramen on the road. Out on tour talking about the “Life on Thin Ice” as a National Geographic explorer. Where can people find you online?

Kiliii Yüyan thanks for taking the time to talk to us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Koichi Sakamoto:

We’re joined on the Starline by a Japanese film and TV director, stunt performer and fight choreographer. You’ve seen his work from “Power Rangers” and “Black Fox”. His latest project is the action film “Shogun’s Ninja”. We welcome Koichi Sakamoto.

Koichi, let’s go Beyond the Mic. “Shogun’s Ninja” is an incredible film filled with an engaging story. Why was capturing a classic samurai and ninja story important to you?

What film influenced you growing up?

Who told you stories like this growing up and how did it influence you?

How did working with your talented cast make this process easier?

How long did it take you to choreograph the fight scenes?

Who is the most talented actor picking up your choreography?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Favorite of all the Power Ranger shows was which?

2. Which movie of yours didn’t get the respect you thought it should have?

3. What is the one chore at home your wife Motoko depends on you to do?

4. Growing up, who won: Ninjas or Samurais?

5. Favorite con you’ve ever been at?

6. What makes a good hero?

7. Favorite movie that you watched to enjoy growing up, without having anything to do with it?

8. Best place for a moment of peace?

The Back Half:

In a world filled with ego and dishonesty, why is honor so important to you?

Why is it important in the world of action, to actually fit a story into a movie?

Who is the one director who influenced your career?

How has the way you shoot a movie evolved from your first one to Shogun’s Ninja?  

How has your Alpha Stunts Production team changed your life?

Do you like John Wick style action or do you feel it needs to be different?

Doesn’t anything hurt more than normal after 16 years of stunts?

Two Big Questions:

You have accomplished so much in your career, what is your next dream?

What is your message to people who admire your work?

Where can people see Shogun’s Ninja?

The Wrap:

He love ninjas, his work on Power rangers Time Force and wants you to watch his movie “Shogun’s Ninja”. Koichi Sakamoto thank you so much for taking the time to talk with us today!

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Chris Woolsey

We’re joined on the Starline by a friend of the program, and associate communications director at Vizio. We welcome back our friend Chris Woolsey.

I’m doing great, let’s go Binge Watching Beyond the Mic. Chris, since we’ve last talked you’ve moved over to our friends at Vizio. How will this change help you and our listeners?

You have plenty of great romantic comedies are up for grabs for the next week on WatchFree+. Which romantic comedy is your favorite?

Mine is “How Do You Know”. I know someone who is a sucker for Reese Witherspoon movies, and who doesn’t love Paul Rudd. You can’t hate him! Can you?

Another fun movie that my wife loves is (500) Days of Summer…

You are a star hound, you love stars, and another star studded movie is “Our Family Wedding”.

What are other romantic favorites are available until the 24th on Vizio?

Vizio has 300 free live entertainment channels and 25,000 titles on demand, since he just passed away, do you have any Val Kilmer movies that can be streamed this month?

My favorite is Real Genius. If you have watched it, you’ll understand it… the bunny slippers scene… the best.

Since we’ve last talked there’s been wildfires in California, earthquakes and the biggest potential nightmare, your son learning to drive. Which is scarier?

Fast Four:

It’s time for the Fast 4, 4 sets of Random things, see if you can see what they all have in common, there is no Pressure.

Unforgiven, Welcome to Mooseport, Prime Cut and I Never Sang for My Father?  

Omar Sharif, Jeremy Kemp, Warren Clarke and Major Wiley?

Crash, Philip Seymour Hoffman, George Clooney and Rachel Weisz?

Ricky the Dragon, Reggie, Coach Skip and Rhett Van Der Graaf?

Sneaking in One More:

What’s the one channel that’s your favorite on WatchFree+?

The Impossible Question:

If you couldn’t watch one actor for the rest of time from the following list, who are tossing out? Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Forest Whitaker, Jack Nicholson, Dennis Quaid, Alec Baldwin or Jesse Eisenberg.

The Wrap:

Where can people find WatchFree+?

He’ll be back in June to shake up summer, thinks his son is a good driver, but increased his insurance anyway and eliminated Dennis Quaid forever. He wants you to enjoy movies with Vizio. Chris Woolsey, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Binge Watching Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Adam Plantinga:

We’re joined on the Starline by an author living a dual life. By day, he is a member of the San Francisco Police Department. By night he’s a jaw dropping, blast of crime and punishment as an author. On weekends, he’s losing games of Clue to his daughter. We welcome the author of “Hard Town” Adam Plantinga.

Adam, let’s go Beyond the Mic. “Hard Town” is the sequel to your book “The Ascent”. Why other than someone backing up a truck full of money did you want to continue Kurt’s story?

What makes a story about the same character so fulfilling for an author?

Normally, I avoid spoilers, but as a dog lover, I’m going to give away one thing. “He’d been their dog, his and Emily’s, and now Hudson was the only family he had left. One of the last cords that still tethered him to his wife.” Why was it important for his character’s development for him to lose Hudson his chow-shepherd?

You have written 5 novels before your 1st published was a USA Today bestseller. How has overcoming adversity change the way you see writing and the way you see yourself?

Adam, what motivates you on a daily basis?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8. Your fellow author and Beyond the Mic 2 time alum Alex Kenna warned you about this. 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is absolutely no pressure.

1. From your book "Last week I brought some lady a disco ball and a tub of tapioca pudding. Three in the morning. I don’t ask.” – What’s the weirdest thing you’ve seen on the beat?

2. What’s the movie you watch when you need to relax?

3. Best thing in the world about being a girl dad?

4. Who is the most jacked author?

5. How much time in the makeup chair did it take before you went on Dr. Phil?

6. What’s your favorite song from the Footloose soundtrack?

7. Favorite flavor of donut and how do you drink your coffee?

8. Board game that your kids can’t beat you at?

The Back Half:

How has the blight of fentanyl changed the way you see addiction in your community?

When you met this author, it changed your opinion on them. Who is it and what’s the story behind it?

Your 1st book “400 Things Cops Know” was nominated for an Agatha Award and won the  Silver Falchion award for best nonfiction crime reference. Was there a 401st thing cops know that you left out?

Best moment at a writing conference was where and with who?

How long did it take you to write “Hard Town” and how much of it was rewritten from the beginning?

Writing:

How much of the book was written at gymnastics practices or meets?

In one part of the book Kurt asks a source "I’m in Phoenix. I need five grand delivered to my hotel room, a change of street clothes, and a few hours with the best computer guy you can wrangle. I’ll pay you back.” Do you have someone in your life you can make this type of request to?

Which author has changed the way you see your craft the most?

How has policing changed since you started?

How long could you survive if you had to in San Quentin?

So what is your favorite home cooked meal?

Policing:

Have you ever thought of leaving policing for writing full time?

“We recently took on a suspect who had a FAFO neck tattoo. He f*cked around with us & found out we'd be arresting him on multiple charges. I would have pointed out how his tattoo had a reverse meaning that day but he didn't especially strike me as a student of irony.” What is your favorite story from the streets?

Was there something you wanted to do with Kurt Argento that you have left out for a third or fourth book?

What’s the power of sarcasm today?

Family and Friends:

Your brother went to law school, how disappointed was your mother when you went into law?

How has your writing evolved from your 1st failed novel to today? Who has helped you become a better author today?

“As a cop, you're no superhero. You succeed b/c you use good teamwork and tactics. But maybe you can still draw some inspiration from the costumed ones. A friend once wrote me a card after I graduated the police academy that said, "Go get 'em, Superman." Still remember that card.” Do you still have that card?

How powerful was she as a friend?

Was there a character that Argento interacts with that you want to flesh out in the future?

You once said "I once arrested a guy on Homeland Security's Most Wanted List and arrestable for attempted murder. His crime? He shoplifted a few shirts.” Who is the one person that you felt bad about taking in?

17 years ago you met the love of your life. How has your wife helped you the most?

What was the one section that she said “Adam, no…”

As a college graduate, I’m going to ask you an important question. Can you trust Marquette?

Favorite type of call and do you have a funny story about it?

One Big Question:

How do you relate to Argento from your own time on the beat and what’s the one fear you have every day?

The Wrap:

He avoids rabbit detail, trusts Marquette and wants you to read his book “Hard Town”.

Where can people find you online?

Adam Plantinga, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Doug Smith:

We’re joined on the Starline by a biologist who studied wildlife in Yellowstone for nearly thirty years. Though he studied everything from beavers to birds, he headed up the Yellowstone Wolf Project which reintroduced the wolf in 1995. Out on tour as a National Geographic Explorer, we welcome Doug Smith.

Doug, let’s go Beyond the Mic. How did your high school senior project change your life?

Your team collared 41 wolves, got them used to their new territory and then released them in Yellowstone. How did reintroducing the wolves bring balance to Yellowstone?

You had been Yellowstone National Parks lead wolf biologist for 28 years. Why was it time to retire and continue sharing the story of wolves?

How many letters have you written back to 15 year olds who like you want to be involved with the wilderness?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. What’s the longest distance you’ve cross country skied in a day?

2. Best thing about a dog?

3. Favorite bird?

4. Best place in Yellowstone to just sit and think?

5. Sunrise or Sunset ?

6. What was your 1st canoe and do you still have it?

7. Do you fish and if you do, what’s the biggest fish you’ve caught?

8. One thing you love about your kids?

The Back Half:

Was there a specific wolf from the initial bunch that you hoped would make it?

Why was it important for the Yellowstone Wolf project to be a success?

You love wolves…

… but what’s the animal that isn't on the top of your list?

Research:

What’s the one thing that your wildlife advisor Dr. James Peek taught you that made you a better scientist?

Has anyone recently asked you a question on your dissertation of “Dispersal Strategies and Cooperative Breeding in Beavers”?  

So, do you think of your thesis stands up today?

When someone comes to see you speak, what do you want them to take away from the experience?

Who makes each day better for you?

One Big Question:

How has this experience changed your life and the way you want people to see animals?

The Wrap:

He still has his 1985 Old Town Tripper canoe, loves the hope of sunrise and wants you to see him talking on the "Wild Wolves of Yellowstone". National Geographic Explorer Doug Smith thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Cole Phillips:

We’re joined on the Starline by a country star on the rise. He once wore #7 on the diamond, now he’s just an Oklahoma Gypsy Shuffler on the road with the “Steel Toes and Texacos Tour”. We welcome Cole Phillips.

Cole, let’s go Beyond the Mic. “I want to show it’s possible to come from a place where it seems like nothing is happening and do something.” What is Bridge Creek like?

How did leaving Bridge Creek to share your music open your eyes to the world?

You’re on the road singing at every joint, festival and opportunity someone gives you. Where is the one place that is special to you musically?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. You played football as a wide receiver and played baseball. Which did you enjoy doing more?

2. You had a tattoo for your grandpa done. How did Grandpa Merle influence you?

3. It is closed now but what was the best dish at La Luna Cantina when you worked there?

4. Biggest fish you caught was what and where?

5. If you could make someone else’s dream come true, who would you help 1st?

6. Go to order at Braum’s is what?

7. Best lesson your dad ever taught you?

8. If you could buy your mom one thing, what would it be?

The Back Half:

What’s the one thing at Bass Pro Shop your manager won’t let you go shopping for?

How has fighting to leave the claustrophobia of a town just north of I-44 change your music?

Now I’m not gonna tell, but your 1st song “Drinking alone” was influenced by you drinking alone. You’re 18, what were you drinking and how has that song changed you?

Tell everyone about picking up the guitar for the first time and how did you learn it?

So what was your first guitar, who bought it and what string breaks the most on it?

How has your family, friends and relationships influenced your music?

You talk about doing wrong, what are you doing right?

Music:

Who influenced musically?

Favorite three songs for you listen to?

Where’s your holy grail of places to play?

If you could open for anymore, who would it be?

You’ve talked about how family and friends have helped you.  How has getting into good trouble influence your music?

What makes your song “West Tx” important as an Okie?

They always say, write what you know. What are you afraid to learn?

How has being part of a family of 8 made you a better man?

What does music mean to you?

One Big Question:

What do you want people to feel in your music?

The Wrap:

His manager keeps him from adding to his duck call collection, wants to buy his mom a car and wants you to hear his latest song “West TX”. On the road with the “Steel Toes and Texacos Tour” Cole Phillips, thanks for taking the time talking with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

Welcome Payson Meistrich:

We’re joined on the Starline by a singer / songwriter. She’s performed at the Pentagon, The White House, and New York based venues such as Pianos and Rockwood Music Hall. Her latest project is the single “Come Back to You”. We welcome Payson Meistrich.

Payson, let’s go Beyond the Mic. Your last song celebrated your everlasting love for Harry Styles but now you’re talking about toxic relationships in “Come Back to You”. Why does communicating your feelings through music sooths you?

You love songwriters who profit off of their heartbreak. Which heartbreak influenced this song?

How does your own relationships today and in the past influence your music?

Does your relationships all compare Harry Styles?

Payson, finish this sentence. “The perfect relationship begins with (blank).” (and it can’t be Harry Styles)

The Rockin' 8:

Payson Mystrich, latest single “Come Back to You”. It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. How many pumpkin Dunkin Munchkins can you eat in one sitting?

2. Favorite Halloween costume?

3. What’s the last musical that you’ve seen that isn’t “Mozart: Her Story”?

4. Least favorite and best Harry Styles songs are what?

5. The best Taylor Swift song is obviously (blank).

6. What’s the one thing you dislike the most about the city you live in now?

7. Do you help people out of kindness or because it hurts if you don’t?

8. Is it true you failed your first driving test and how close was the score?

The Back Half:

Best thing about your late dog Cody?

What’s your typical warmup for a show like and how long does it take you to get warm?

More nerve wracking between friends or your family?

When did your musical adventure begin?

Who is the one person that you share a song with first? The person that you can see the reaction in their face whether it will be a good or bad song.

Does he judge your stage outfits?

Where is your favorite place to sing?

Best place for you to experience freedom?

How about your favorite beach?

Music:

Why did you fall out of love with music?

Who do you have the strongest unspoken bond with musically?

What are the three songs that changed the way you understand and love music forever?

When you are singing in front of a crowd, what are you thinking of and how do you focus on the music?

What was your 1st guitar, who gave it to you?

Family:

How has your family supported your music career and how important are they to your success?

What’s the one lesson your mom has given you that has made you a stronger woman?

You said once “The only thing that college has taught me is that my horrible decision making skills will not be improving anytime soon.” So have they improved?

One Big Question:

How has music change you?

How do you want “Come Back to You” to change others?

Sneaking in a Couple More:

When do know you are in love?

What does love mean to you now?

Best thing about your talented brother?

What’s your next dream? (C’mon, other than Harry Styles.)

Where can people find you online?

The Wrap:

She’s irrationally afraid of sharks, could eat 50 pumpkins munchkins at one time and wants you to hear the single “Come Back to You” Payson Meistrich thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic XL.

Welcome Sarah Perry:

We’re joined on the Starline by an author, memoirist and professor. She’s the 2019 McGee Distinguished Professor of Creative Writing and part of the creative writing faculty at Colorado State University. Her latest essay collections “Sweet Nothings: Confessions of a Candy Lover” we welcome author Sarah Perry.

Good morning Sarah, let’s go Beyond the Mic. You start with one of my favorite candies Root Beer Barrels and off you go with 100 essays, sorted by color. Why did you start with Root Beer Barrels?

How did this book allow you to give your readers another angle of who you are after your vulnerable memoir “After the Eclipse: A Mother’s Murder, a Daughter’s Search”?

Why has candy been not only a treat, reward but inspiration for you?

There is a serial killer vibe with how did you come up with the idea to spin gummy bears around your mouth then swallow them whole?  That’s strange!

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Favorite thing about snuggling with your cat Ziggy?

2. Book that you loved reading that wasn’t yours?

3. Ten words or less that describe Oregon?

4. Poet that you love to read?

5. How long did it take you to record the audio version?

6. Best score last time you played Ticket to Ride and did you win?

7. Favorite thing to grow on the farm?

8. What flavors would you want in an everlasting gobstopper?

Sneaking in a couple more:

You’re currently working on two manuscripts. How do you bounce between the two and know where you are in both of them?

“I want to believe joy doesn’t require blinders.” What does joy require?

How has your partner and your family help you find joy?

One Big Question:

How did your time at Columbia prepare you for the world, and what is the one thing you wished they taught?

The Wrap:

She’s a competitive Ticket to Ride player, grows potatoes on the farm and want you to read. “Sweet Nothings: Confessions of a Candy Lover”. Sarah, where can people find you online?

Sarah Perry, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Delaney Buffett:

We’re joined on the Starline by an award winning director, writer and actor whose dad loved music. Her Tribeca Film Festival nominated film is now on demand. We welcome director of “Adult Best Friends” Delaney Buffett.

Delaney, let’s go Beyond the Mic. You co-wrote this movie with your co-star, writing partner and decade long friend about two friends on a girl’s trip with one breaking the news she’s getting married. How did looking at your own friendship through a comedic lens change the way you see friendship?

The cast is tight with Zachary Quinto, Cazzie David, Mason Gooding and much more. What made shooting with them easy and hard?

“Sometimes the past can’t last”. How has change helped and hurt you in your life?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. You met Katie in Science Class in middle school, do you remember what your grade was?

2. Best thing from craft services on the set was what?

3. Favorite film festival that isn’t Key West?

4. Best memory from your semester abroad in Australia?

5. Who is the one person who touched your heart at the Lawrenceville School Camp when you were a councilor there?

6. Best thing about a dog?

7. How much B12 did you snort in the bathroom scene?

8. What is your peak and valley from this week?

Sneaking in One More:

What career would you have tried to use your criminology degree in if you weren’t a writer?

One Big Question:

You once said “Life is short. Spend it with the people you love. And keep every voicemail.” When was the last time you listened to a voicemail from your father?

The Wrap:

She loves sleep, waking up with her dog and enjoyed spring break in Australia. Director of “Adult Best Friends” Delaney Buffett thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Anna Francese Gass:

We’re joined on the Starline by a chef, cookbook author, recipe developer, culinary influencer and mom of three. Host of “Instant Italian” on FYI we welcome Chef Anna Francese Gass.

Anna, let’s go Beyond the Mic. “Instant Italian” has all the Italian favorites, but making them quick and easy for today’s home cooks. Why did you leave the corporate sales world and decide to enroll at the French Culinary Institute?

From all of the recipes shown on “Instant Italian”, which is the one you love the most?

You say “Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated”. What’s the one mistake home chefs make that you wish you could eliminate forever?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Favorite Italian Snack?

2. Best place to eat in New Canaan?

3. Last cookbook you read?

4. One thing your kids want you to cook them when they are sick?

5. What’s the Italian ingredient you can’t live without?

6. Best Italian grocery store buy?

7. Do you do breakfast for dinner?

8. Hobby that you do that isn’t cooking related?

Sneaking in a Couple More:

Why did visiting family in Calabria change you?

Why should people watch “Instant Italian” on FYI?

Who inspired you to cook?

One Big Question:

What did you call your grandmother and what recipe of hers are you trying to perfect?

Why do you love cooking so much?

(So since you cook, what is your husband in charge with around the house?)

The Wrap:

She loves snacking on cannoli, makes her kids pastina when they are sick and wants you to watch “Instant Italian” on FYI. Chef Anna Francese Gass thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Sahil Bloom:

We’re joined on the Starline by a PAC-12 pitcher with a 2.73 ERA with 2 saves as a Stanford Cardinal. He parlayed his scholarship into Economics and Sociology Majors with a Masters in Public Policy. His latest book is “The 5 Types of Wealth”. We welcome Sahil Bloom.

Sahil, let’s go Beyond the Mic. You’ve done private equity, and own SRB holdings. Why was it important for you to positively impact one billion lives?

You can swing a stick in any direction and hit someone who has either thought of or written a financial book. What makes “The 5 Types of Wealth” different?

Was there a 6th type of wealth that you weeded out?

How has your life changed from your days at Stanford to today?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Which pitch was your go to for getting out of a jam?

2. What was the best gift you got for your birthday last month?

3. How many journals do you own?

4. Which day of the week is your think day?

5. How much hair gel do you go through in a month?

6. One life lesson you want to teach your son about love?

7. Who is the one person you want to ask one question of?

8. Best piece of advice Condoleeza Rice ever gave you?

Sneaking in A Couple More:

What is the one thing that provides your fans the most value?

Biggest lesson from training for your 1st marathon?

Which is the one thing “The 5 Types of Wealth” that was hardest for you to learn?

Where do you go for peace?

One Big Question:

You said “You never leave money on the table but won’t think twice about leaving your peace of mind there.” Who kicked you in the butt and gave you the kick start you needed today?

The Wrap:

He always depended on the slider, takes a walks with his family daily and wants you to read “The 5 Types of Wealth”. Where can people find the book and you online?

Author Sahil Bloom, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Matt Paxton:

We’re joined on the Starline by a man who has liked stuff and the story that they tells for more than 25 years. The expert in decluttering and downsizing is off on his next adventure in “Filthy Fortunes” on the Discovery Channel. We welcome Matt Paxton.

Matt, let’s go Beyond the Mic. “If we find nothing, we make nothing.” What percentage of the places you have gone and seen have you found less than expected value?

How do the people help and or hurt you in your research?

What do you want people to take away from “Filthy Fortunes”?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, it’s my way of decluttering you. Answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. What’s the biggest thing of value you have ever found?

2. Your first job at 14 was at work at McDonalds. What’s your typical order today?

3. When on the road shooting, what’s your guilty pleasure?

4. Longest run you’ve ever been on?

5. Have you convinced your son not to marry a bottle of ketchup, or is he still courting one?

6. Did you keep that bottle of Shinola you found in a house and do you know the difference now?

7. Most underrated place in California?

8. What’s the one item in your house that would drive your friends to tears?

Sneaking In A Couple More:

You’ve talked about in your podcast “5 Decisions Away” about the unfunny topic of Animal Hoarding. What’s another hoarding topic that makes you uncomfortable?

Which episode of “Filthy Fortunes” made you the proudest at the end?

Talk about your team and how they make this adventure fun?

“When you find an item in your attic, remember it was a stepping stone. When you left it there you needed it. Now you don’t. You’ve grown.” Who helped you grow maturing to where you are today?

One Big Question:

“It's amazing what you can accomplish with maturity, reflection, and support. I returned to a city that once owned me. Not this time. I worked hard for my sponsor, hung out with friends, and did NOT gamble. Didn't even think about it. People do get better. Stick with them.” How did your darkest days prepare you for your greatest victories with the people who love you?

The Wrap:

Matt Paxton loves Santa Cruz, cherishes his best friend’s guitar and wants you to watch “Filthy Fortunes” on Discovery. Matt, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Michael Ayala

We’re joined on the Starline by an attorney and EMMY-award winner. His latest project is a seven part look at “The Trial of the Century”. In “Trial & Error: Why did O.J. Win” on Court TV we welcome host Michael Ayala.

Michael, let’s go Beyond the Mic. This series has it all from participants, attorneys, detectives, and relatives from all sides of the courtroom. With all this content, how did you limit it to just 7 episodes?

As an attorney, an officer of the court, how did this verdict affect the way you see the justice system?

What’s the one fact from the trial that gives you pause?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Favorite memory of Brooklyn?

2. Best score on your Mattel Classic Football 2?

3. What’s the color of your lucky suit and when was the last time you wore it?

4. Last Clemson game you were able to see?

5. One chore your wife depends on you to do?

6. What makes Futsal such a fun sport to watch?

7. Which court case verdict surprised you that WASN’T O.J.?  

8. Could you take Vinnie “The Hitman” Politan on the basketball court in a game of HORSE?

Sneaking in One More:

This was the first “Super Case”. Would the true crime obsession that has exploded since this case happened if it hadn’t been televised?

One Big Question:

What’s the biggest unforced error from both sides in your opinion as an attorney?

The Wrap:

The justice system worked, loves the speed of Futsal and wants you to watch “Trial & Error: Why did O.J. Win” on Court TV. Michael Ayala thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Susan Morrison:

We’re joined on the Starline by the articles editor of The New Yorker, former editor in chief at the New York Observer and an original editor of SPY magazine. Her book is “Lorne: The Man Who Invented SNL” we welcome Susan Morrison.

Susan, let’s go Beyond the Mic. You cover in this biography more than just the show but challenges, egos, meddling executives who want to tinker with perfection and the man who under pressure balancing it all Lorne Michaels. You did hundreds of interviews with Lorne and others. What’s the one fact that amazed you about Lorne?

In writing this, you were able showing readers the man behind the curtain. How did those five years away from SNL in the 80’s change him propelling him to what is SNL today?

SNL has 84 prime time Emmy Awards, multiple Writers Guild of America Awards and 3 Peabody Awards. How has Lorne been able to balance comedy, talent development and egos of future stars?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. You watched the 50thAnniversary special with some of the SNL writers. Favorite SNL sketch from the special?

2. Best thing about your nephew Pat?

3. What were you emotions when you opened the 1st box of hardbacks of Lorne?

4. Best thing about your late cat Timmy?

5. Who is the one person you want to interview but haven’t yet?

6. Favorite Beatles song of all time?

7. Cesar Romero or Alan Hale?

8. Best movie that isn’t “Meet me in St. Louis”

Sneaking in Couple More:

Is the mass reply-all e-mail disaster still going on for another week?

Has the success and failure of SNL been not only on Lorne but in who he hired as writers?

What was the important interview for this book?

Who is on your Mount Rushmore of SNL?

One Big Question:

How will Saturday Night Live move on when Lorne is no longer at the helm?

The Wrap:

She loves her brilliant sculptor nephew, still wants to interview Andy Samberg and wants you to read “Lorne: The Man Who Invented SNL”. Susan Morrison, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is a Beyond the Mic Short Cut.

Welcome Phil Vassar:

We’re joined on the Starline by an artist with 10 #1 singles, 27 Top 40 hits and 25 years of love and success “On the 25 Years of Paradise” tour right now, we welcome Phil Vassar.

Phil, let’s go Beyond the Mic. You started off writing hits for others, “Little Red Rodeo”, “Right on the Money” among countless hits, then you signed your record deal in 1998. How has writing and performing music all these years change you?

When people see you on tour, what do you want people to feel?

Your set list changes nightly how do you put one together?

Is there one that you love and people say, “C’mon Phil, give it a day off”.

You have written songs in under 20 minutes, but they have your signature of crafting a story that people can relate to. How has the way you write music changed from the 90’s to today?

The Rockin' 8:

It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.

1. Favorite place to hold a concert?

2. Which song of yours didn’t get the love you thought it should have?

3. What’s the one comfort item you have to have when heading on tour?

4. How do you drink your morning coffee?

5. First piano you ever bought was what and do you still have it?

6. Nearsighted or farsighted?