Celebrity Interviews

On this episode of The Neil Haley Show, Neil The Media Giant Haley sits down with the creative team behind "Kevin's Series of Unfortunate Events," the buzzy comedy episode making its world premiere at the 2026 Tribeca Festival. Joining Neil are director and co-creator Rex Glensy, writer and co-creator Asad Moghal, and actor Jake Watkins, who stars as the hopelessly optimistic Kevin."Kevin's Series of Unfortunate Events" is episode four of Patterns, an ambitious eight-episode comedy anthology series co-created by Glensy and Moghal. The concept is unique: every episode stands alone as its own self-contained story, but all eight connect into one shared universe. A minor character in one episode might be the lead in another, so viewers can enjoy a single episode on its own or watch the full series for the complete picture. The episodes span wildly different comedic styles, from traditional sitcom to slapstick to a full original musical, all unified by what the creators call "universal camp," an over-the-top-yet-grounded tone in the tradition of Monty Python and Absolutely Fabulous.In this episode, Kevin braves a relentless string of disastrous dates, convinced that persistence will eventually lead to love. Jake Watkins shares how he first auditioned for the role of Kevin back in 2020, why the character's hope and tendency to see the best in people mirror his own personality, and how Asad Moghal's writing made the role click. Moghal reveals that the dating disasters are drawn from his own real-life dating history, calling the series his own form of therapy, including the date who turned out to be fifty years older than his profile photo. Rex Glensy explains his directing philosophy: comedy was always the line, and the moment a scene stopped being funny and turned threatening, that was a story for another show. Neil even opens up about his own post-divorce dating war stories, proving the episode's themes hit home far beyond any one community.The conversation also explores the rest of Kevin's journey through the Patterns universe. Watkins appears in three of the eight episodes, including episode six, "Back to School," and the season finale, episode eight, a full musical featuring all original songs and Watkins doing his own vocals, structured as a comedic singing treasure hunt with Kevin and his frenemy Foster.The team discusses the thrill of being selected for Tribeca, one of the top film festivals in the world, where only a small number of shows make the TV section out of thousands of submissions. "Kevin's Series of Unfortunate Events" has its red-carpet world premiere in a primetime slot, with screenings on June 7, June 8, and June 14 in New York City, and Q&A sessions at every screening. The second screening sold out so quickly that the festival added a third. Tickets are available to the public through the Tribeca Festival website in the TV section.And there's much more on the way: all eight episodes of Patterns are fully shot, along with an entire eight-episode prequel series, Patterns: Origins, giving distributors sixteen ready-made episodes and roughly eight hours of content. The team expects to announce streaming distribution following the Tribeca premiere.Follow Jake Watkins on Instagram at @jakeybaby, writer Asad Moghal at @asadmoghal, and director Rex Glensy at @rexglensy. For tickets and screening information, visit the Tribeca Festival website and search the TV section for "Kevin's Series of Unfortunate Events."Don't miss this hilarious and heartfelt conversation about modern dating, finding the funny in life's worst moments, and the breakout series everyone will be talking about after Tribeca.

In this exciting episode of The Neil Haley Show and Celebrity Interviews Live from The Grotto, Neil Haley welcomes two special guests connected to one of television's most iconic competition franchises. Joining the show are legendary sports broadcaster Chris Rose, who serves as commentator for the new version of American Gladiators, and Steel, one of the featured Gladiators and a former professional wrestler. Together, they discuss the highly anticipated revival of the beloved competition series, the incredible athletes involved, and why both longtime fans and new viewers should tune in.The conversation begins with Neil reminiscing about the original American Gladiators phenomenon that captivated audiences in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Chris Rose laughs when asked whether he ever imagined competing against the Gladiators himself. Rather than wanting to challenge the larger-than-life athletes, Rose explains that his dream role was always to be behind the microphone, calling the action and bringing excitement to viewers at home.Rose humorously describes himself as far better suited for commentary than competition, joking about his lack of athletic prowess and emphasizing that the Gladiators are physical specimens unlike anything most people have ever encountered. He credits the show's enduring popularity to the incredible combination of athletic competition, entertainment, and larger-than-life personalities.For Steel, becoming an American Gladiator represents the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. Growing up watching the original series, he viewed the Gladiators as real-life superheroes. Their imposing physiques, charismatic personalities, and athletic abilities left a lasting impression on him as a young fan. Now, as one of the new Gladiators, he embraces the opportunity to inspire a new generation of viewers just as the original cast inspired him.Steel speaks passionately about honoring the legacy of the original Gladiators while helping bring a modern edge to the franchise. He describes the responsibility of stepping into such an iconic role and credits the original stars for paving the way for today's competitors. For him, becoming Steel is more than a television role—it is a chance to motivate people to pursue strength, discipline, and confidence in their own lives.The discussion shifts to the competitors who enter the arena hoping to defeat the Gladiators and win the grand prize. Chris Rose points out one of the biggest differences between the original version of the show and the current reboot: the overall caliber of the contestants. While the original series featured everyday people, today's competitors are often highly trained athletes with impressive physical abilities and compelling personal stories.Rose explains that many contestants arrive with life-changing motivations. Some have overcome significant weight loss journeys. Others are competing for their families, pursuing lifelong dreams, or proving something to themselves after years of adversity. The $100,000 prize certainly provides motivation, but according to Rose, the competition often represents something much deeper. For many contestants, the show serves as the culmination of years of personal growth and perseverance.One particularly memorable example involves a contestant who overcame childhood obesity after a doctor warned him that his health was in serious danger. Through hard work and determination, he transformed his life and eventually became a personal trainer who now helps others achieve their goals. Stories like these give the competition emotional depth and make viewers emotionally invested in the outcomes.

In this exciting episode of The Neil Haley Show, Neil Haley welcomes Christian Hubicki, FIRST alum, robotics expert, and competitor on Survivor 50, along with Liam Twohig, a student participant at the 2026 FIRST Championship. Together, they discuss one of the world's largest and most influential STEM competitions, the impact of robotics education, and how programs like FIRST are preparing students for careers in technology, engineering, business, and beyond. The conversation highlights not only the incredible robots on display but also the life-changing opportunities available to students who participate in FIRST programs around the globe. The interview begins with an overview of the 2026 FIRST Championship, an international robotics competition that brings together students from kindergarten through high school to showcase their accomplishments in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. With thousands of students, mentors, educators, and industry professionals gathered in one location, the event serves as both a competition and a celebration of innovation. Participants design, build, program, and operate robots while developing critical skills that extend far beyond the classroom. Liam shares his personal journey with FIRST and explains how the program transformed his confidence and communication skills. When he first joined his robotics team in eighth grade, he struggled to speak in front of others and found networking intimidating. Through participation in FIRST, however, he gradually developed the ability to communicate effectively, engage with judges, collaborate with teammates, and represent his team in professional settings. His experience demonstrates how STEM programs can foster personal growth alongside technical development. One of the key themes throughout the conversation is that FIRST is much more than a robotics competition. Christian explains that FIRST stands for For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology and serves as one of the leading global organizations promoting STEM education. The program gives students hands-on experience with real-world technology while exposing them to careers they may never have considered. Participants are not simply building robots; they are solving problems, collaborating with others, and learning skills that will serve them throughout their lives. Christian emphasizes that robotics serves as a vehicle for much broader educational experiences. Students must tackle challenges related to engineering, programming, manufacturing, business management, fundraising, marketing, communications, and project planning. Teams often function like small companies, with students taking on leadership roles and managing complex projects. These experiences help participants develop a practical understanding of how organizations operate while preparing them for future careers in virtually any field. The scale of the FIRST community is truly remarkable. Christian notes that tens of thousands of students participate annually, creating one of the largest STEM networks in the world. At the championship alone, thousands of students gather to share ideas, learn from one another, and build relationships that may continue throughout their professional lives. The connections formed through FIRST often lead to internships, career opportunities, mentorships, and lifelong friendships. For Liam, one of the most valuable aspects of the program has been the opportunity to explore his interest in 3D animation and creative technology. Although robotics is often associated strictly with engineering, Liam explains that FIRST embraces STEAM education—Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. Through his work with 3D printing and design, he has gained skills that align closely with his future career aspirations. The program's emphasis on communication, creativity, and collaboration makes it relevant even for students whose goals

In this insightful episode of The Neil Haley Show, Neil Haley welcomes New York Times bestselling author and personal finance expert Beth Kobliner to discuss the newly revised edition of her iconic financial guide, Get a Financial Life: Personal Finance in Your 20s and 30s. Widely regarded as one of the most trusted voices in personal finance, Beth shares practical advice for young adults navigating today's increasingly complicated financial landscape. From saving and investing to avoiding debt and resisting financial temptations, she provides a roadmap for building long-term financial security even during uncertain economic times. The conversation begins with a discussion about one of the biggest challenges facing young adults today: saving money. Many people in their 20s and 30s are focused on immediate concerns such as rent, student loans, finding stable employment, and managing rising living expenses. Retirement often feels too far away to prioritize. Beth acknowledges these realities but explains that today's younger generations are facing a unique combination of economic pressures, including concerns about artificial intelligence replacing jobs, volatile financial markets, the influence of social media, online gambling platforms, and prediction markets that constantly compete for their attention. Despite these challenges, she believes there are simple and effective steps young people can take to begin building wealth. Beth emphasizes the importance of automation when it comes to saving. One of her core recommendations is to automatically save at least ten percent of every paycheck before the money can be spent. By directing funds into high-yield savings accounts, retirement plans, or investment accounts automatically, individuals can remove the emotional component of saving and create consistent habits that compound over time. She explains that even small contributions can make a significant difference over the long term thanks to the power of compound growth. The discussion then turns to retirement accounts and investing. Beth explains that many young people are intimidated by terms like 401(k)s and IRAs because they associate them exclusively with retirement. However, she argues that these accounts should be viewed as powerful wealth-building tools rather than distant retirement vehicles. Tax advantages, long-term growth, and employer matching programs make these accounts some of the most effective financial tools available. She encourages young adults to start investing as early as possible, even if they can only contribute small amounts initially. Another important topic covered during the interview is the accessibility of investing today. Beth points out that modern investment platforms have dramatically lowered barriers to entry. Young investors can begin with as little as a single dollar by purchasing shares of diversified exchange-traded funds (ETFs) through reputable firms. By focusing on diversified index funds rather than chasing speculative investments, individuals can steadily build wealth while minimizing unnecessary risk. Her message is clear: investing is no longer reserved for the wealthy, and everyone can participate regardless of income level. Beth also addresses the financial challenges that are unique to Generation Z. While previous generations were often criticized for being careless with money, she notes that many young people today are actually more financially aware than their predecessors. Having lived through economic uncertainty, inflation, and global disruptions, many members of Generation Z understand the importance of financial security. However, they also face new threats, including misinformation spread through social media and aggressive marketing from online gambling companies and speculative financial platforms. This makes financial education more important than ever before.

In this engaging episode of The Neil Haley Show and Celebrity Interviews Live from the Grotto, Neil Haley welcomes award-winning filmmaker, screenwriter, producer, and actor Michael Tove to discuss his acclaimed short film Yard Sale-ing, his fascinating journey into the film industry, and the lessons he has learned from decades of pursuing his passion for storytelling. Michael shares how a lifelong love of stories evolved into a successful filmmaking career that has now earned international recognition through one of the most decorated short films on the festival circuit today. Michael begins by reflecting on his roots in North Carolina and how his fascination with storytelling started at an early age. Long before filmmaking entered the picture, he was captivated by short stories and narrative twists, drawing inspiration from legendary storytellers such as O. Henry, Rod Serling, and the classic Alfred Hitchcock anthology series. What fascinated him most were stories that led audiences down one path before surprising them with an unexpected ending. Those influences would eventually become central to his own creative style and are clearly reflected in his filmmaking approach today. His entry into the film industry happened in an unexpected way. While searching for opportunities to learn about filmmaking, Michael answered a casting call for the original film adaptation of The Handmaid's Tale. What began as a simple background acting opportunity turned into a transformative experience. Standing on a professional film set for the first time exposed him to the collaborative nature of filmmaking and ignited a passion that would shape the next several decades of his life. He quickly realized that creating films involved far more than acting and became determined to learn every aspect of the craft. Over the years, Michael immersed himself in screenwriting education. He spent more than fifteen years studying the art and business of screenwriting through workshops, mentorships, coaching programs, master classes, and professional training. He learned from some of the industry's most respected instructors and writers, constantly refining his storytelling abilities. During this period, he also developed relationships with industry veterans, including former Universal Pictures President Tom Mount and veteran director Tom Logan. These connections provided invaluable guidance and helped shape Michael's understanding of professional filmmaking. The conversation then shifts to Yard Sale-ing, the award-winning short film that has brought Michael widespread recognition. The project originated from an idea he first conceived more than three decades ago. Like many of his favorite stories, the concept began with a simple “what if” question. Over the years, the idea evolved while maintaining its original core premise. Eventually, after extensive script development and collaboration with director Tom Logan, the project moved into production and became the short film audiences are now discovering around the world. Without revealing spoilers, Michael explains that Yard Sale-ing centers on Jim and Sally Marsh, a married couple whose personalities could not be more different. Sally is optimistic, enthusiastic, and convinced that hidden treasures are waiting to be discovered at local yard sales. Jim, on the other hand, is practical, skeptical, and would rather be almost anywhere else. Their conflicting perspectives create the foundation for a story that combines humor, character-driven conflict, and the type of unexpected twists Michael has loved since childhood. As Sally embarks on a quest to uncover hidden treasure, the couple finds themselves pulled into a situation that develops in ways neither of them anticipated.

In this entertaining episode of The Neil Haley Show and Celebrity Interviews Live from the Grotto, Neil Haley sits down with musician, actor, writer, and filmmaker Hobart to discuss his upcoming comedy feature film I Am Ryan. The conversation explores Hobart's fascinating journey through the entertainment industry, from performing in bands and touring internationally to acting in national commercials and eventually creating his own feature film inspired by years of being compared to Hollywood superstar Ryan Reynolds.Growing up in central Illinois surrounded by farmland and small-town life, Hobart always dreamed of building a career in music. In 2012, he made the bold decision to move to Los Angeles and pursue those ambitions full-time. Like many artists who relocate to Hollywood, he quickly discovered that success often requires adaptability, persistence, and a willingness to explore opportunities beyond the original plan.While music remained his primary focus, Hobart soon found himself auditioning for commercials during downtime between musical projects. What started as an experiment quickly became a successful second career. Over the years, he landed campaigns with major brands including Walmart, Microsoft, ZipRecruiter, and numerous others. These experiences helped him become comfortable in front of the camera while providing valuable insight into the entertainment industry.Throughout the interview, Hobart reflects on his extensive music career. He shares stories about performing on the iconic Vans Warped Tour, touring across the United States and internationally, and playing more than a thousand live performances throughout his career. His music has also been featured in major media projects including Deadpool: The Video Game, Rock Band, MTV productions, ESPN broadcasts, and additional television and gaming properties. These accomplishments established Hobart as a versatile creative talent long before he stepped into filmmaking.The centerpiece of the discussion is Hobart's new comedy feature, I Am Ryan. The film is inspired by a unique reality that Hobart has experienced for years: people constantly telling him that he looks like Ryan Reynolds. Friends, strangers, casting directors, and entertainment professionals have repeatedly pointed out the resemblance. Instead of ignoring the comparisons, Hobart decided to turn them into a comedic concept.The story follows Brian Reynolds, an ordinary man who happens to look remarkably similar to Ryan Reynolds. After being discovered by a questionable manager looking to capitalize on the resemblance, Brian suddenly finds himself navigating bizarre situations, questionable promotional appearances, and opportunities that blur the line between reality and mistaken identity. The result is a comedy that combines satire, celebrity culture, and absurd humor while exploring the unexpected consequences of looking like one of Hollywood's biggest stars.Hobart explains that the original idea for I Am Ryan first came to him in 2017. Although he loved the concept immediately, bringing it to life required years of planning, development, networking, and persistence. Eventually, he connected with producer Carl Jackson, who immediately recognized the potential of the project. Together they assembled the team necessary to move the film into production, ultimately filming the movie in 2025.Neil and Hobart spend considerable time discussing the realities of independent filmmaking. Unlike major studio productions with massive budgets and resources, independent films require creators to wear multiple hats. Hobart not only stars in the film but also wrote, produced, and helped oversee many aspects of the project. He shares how challenging—but rewarding—it was to transform a simple idea into a completed feature film.

In this heartwarming episode of The Neil Haley Show and Celebrity Interviews Live from the Grotto, Neil Haley welcomed entrepreneur, animal advocate, and television personality Ron King, better known today as “The Donkey King.” What began as a conversation about a unique television series quickly became an inspiring story about reinvention, purpose, compassion, and discovering what truly brings joy in life. Ron King's life today looks nothing like the life he once lived. Before becoming one of the nation's most recognized donkey rescuers, Ron was a highly successful publishing executive who served as the publisher of InStyle magazine. His career placed him at the center of the fashion industry, attending exclusive events, sitting front row at major fashion shows, and working alongside some of the biggest names in media and entertainment. It was a world of glamour, luxury, and prestige that many people dream about. Yet despite his professional accomplishments, life would eventually lead him in an entirely unexpected direction. As Ron explained during the interview, everything changed during a difficult period in his life. After leaving Time Inc., he expected his experience and accomplishments would naturally open doors to another executive position. Instead, he discovered firsthand the challenges that many professionals face later in their careers. At fifty years old, he found that opportunities were no longer appearing as easily as they once had. Combined with the uncertainty and isolation brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, Ron found himself struggling emotionally and searching for a new sense of purpose. That purpose arrived in the most unlikely way possible—a TikTok video.While scrolling online, Ron stumbled across a video showing donkeys being sold through livestock auctions and ultimately sent to slaughter. The discovery shocked him. He had never considered the plight of donkeys before and began researching the issue. What he learned changed his life forever. Rather than simply feeling sympathy, he decided to take action. Despite having absolutely no background in animal rescue, farming, veterinary care, or donkey ownership, he committed himself to creating a sanctuary dedicated to saving these animals. Looking back, Ron laughs at the fact that he launched a rescue operation before he had ever even met a donkey. After creating a business plan, securing funding, and establishing the foundation for the organization, he suddenly realized he should probably spend some time around the animals he intended to save. His first three rescued donkeys—Goose, Pickles, and Shadow—arrived in December 2020. Those three animals remain part of the sanctuary today and helped ignite a passion that continues to drive Ron's mission. What followed was one of the most dramatic personal transformations imaginable.Over the past five years, Ron has rescued approximately 450 donkeys, creating a thriving nonprofit organization known as Oscar's Place. What began as a personal mission evolved into a nationally recognized sanctuary dedicated to providing care, rehabilitation, and adoption opportunities for donkeys rescued from neglect, abandonment, and slaughter pipelines. Today, the sanctuary is home to approximately 220 donkeys spread across two separate properties, each receiving individualized care and attention. The success of Oscar's Place eventually attracted media attention. A feature segment on CBS introduced Ron's story to a wider audience and generated an astonishing response. During the brief television appearance, the sanctuary received approximately $200,000 in donations. The experience opened Ron's eyes to the power of storytelling and television as tools for raising awareness and support for animal rescue efforts. That exposure planted the seed for what would eventually become The Donkey King television series.

In this special simulcast episode of The Neil Haley Show and Celebrity Interviews Live from the Grotto, Neil Haley welcomed acclaimed actor, choreographer, director, and Broadway veteran Christopher Windom for an in-depth conversation about his extraordinary career in theater, dance, film, and education. From performing on Broadway to choreographing major productions and feature films, Windom shared the journey that transformed a young boy with endless energy into one of the most respected creative professionals in the performing arts industry today. Christopher explained that his artistic journey began in St. Louis, Missouri, where his parents encouraged him to channel his energy into productive activities. Dance ultimately became the outlet that captured his imagination and provided him with focus, discipline, and purpose. At a time when male dancers often faced stereotypes and criticism, Windom pushed through the challenges because he recognized the value that dance brought to his life. Beyond movement itself, dance taught him responsibility, confidence, and perseverance while providing a sense of belonging that would remain with him throughout his career. After years of training and studying musical theater in college, Windom made the leap to New York City. Like many aspiring performers, he arrived with dreams of making it on Broadway. Unlike many, however, success came surprisingly quickly. Within weeks of arriving in New York, auditions began turning into callbacks and callbacks became professional opportunities. Windom credits much of that success to maintaining structure and discipline in his life. Rather than waiting for opportunities to appear, he created his own daily curriculum of dance classes, acting lessons, and voice training, ensuring he was always prepared when opportunities arrived. One of his earliest major professional accomplishments came with the national tour of Damn Yankees. The experience held special significance because he had seen the production as a student and boldly declared that he would someday perform in it. That dream became reality when he earned a place in the touring company. The opportunity validated years of hard work and reinforced the importance of persistence, preparation, and believing in one's goals even before they seem achievable. Windom's Broadway career continued to grow through productions such as Fosse, where he worked alongside legendary theater figures including Ann Reinking, Chita Rivera, Gwen Verdon, and Bebe Neuwirth. Sharing the stage and rehearsal room with such iconic performers provided invaluable mentorship and insight. The experience taught him not only about performance excellence but also about professionalism, storytelling, and the collaborative nature of theater. Working with artists of that caliber helped shape his understanding of what it means to create meaningful work that resonates with audiences. As his career evolved, Windom found himself increasingly drawn toward choreography. While many performers focus exclusively on their own role, he discovered a passion for shaping entire productions through movement and storytelling. Rather than viewing choreography as a position of authority, he viewed it as a responsibility to support other artists and help tell a larger story. His ability to communicate, collaborate, and inspire performers naturally led him into leadership roles within productions. Over time, choreography became as important to his identity as performing itself.

In this powerful episode of Million Dollar Minutes and The Neil Haley Show, hosts Neil Haley and Ryan August welcomed former BYU Hall of Fame linebacker, exercise physiologist, and brain health researcher Dr. Larry Carr for an eye-opening discussion about football, brain injuries, CTE, mental health, and revolutionary research that may change the future of neurological recovery.Dr. Carr's journey began on the football field. Starting at just 10 years old, he played football throughout his childhood, high school, college, and eventually professionally in Canada. While many athletes relied on physical gifts, Dr. Carr credits much of his success to preparation and intelligence. As he explained during the interview, he spent countless hours studying film and learning opponents' tendencies because he knew he couldn't rely solely on athletic ability.Despite his success, years of repetitive head impacts would eventually take a toll.As he entered his 50s and approached age 60, Dr. Carr began noticing significant cognitive and emotional changes. He described a gradual decline that affected nearly every aspect of his life. Depression, anxiety, memory issues, emotional instability, and cognitive struggles became increasingly difficult to manage. At the time, public awareness surrounding CTE and football-related brain injuries was still limited compared to today.Seeking answers, he visited neurologists who ultimately informed him that he showed signs of significant brain damage related to years of football participation. The diagnosis was devastating.Dr. Carr explained that this period represented one of the darkest chapters of his life. His relationships suffered, his marriage was strained, and he struggled to understand why he was changing so dramatically. Determined to find answers, he began researching brain injuries extensively and eventually connected with renowned CTE researcher Dr. Ann McKee in Boston.When Dr. Carr met with Dr. McKee, he hoped she might have a solution. Instead, she delivered difficult news. At the time, there were no proven treatments for CTE. Medications could potentially manage symptoms, but no therapies existed that could address the underlying neurological damage.However, Dr. McKee pointed him toward a research study being conducted through the Department of Veterans Affairs involving photobiomodulation therapy, a form of light therapy being used to help veterans suffering from brain injuries.That recommendation changed everything.Dr. Carr became the first former football player enrolled in the study. Researchers evaluated him through multiple treatment phases, including sessions using specialized light therapy devices designed to stimulate brain function and neurological repair.The results were remarkable.According to Dr. Carr, improvements appeared in nearly every category researchers measured. Depression decreased. Anxiety improved. PTSD symptoms lessened. Cognitive performance improved. Emotional stability returned. Most importantly, he regained quality of life and began feeling like himself again.He credits the treatment with saving both his marriage and his future.Inspired by these outcomes, Dr. Carr dedicated himself to studying how this technology could help others. His research eventually expanded into athletics, where he began examining the effects of repetitive head impacts on football players.One of the most important points discussed during the interview was Dr. Carr's belief that concussions alone are not the primary issue.Instead, he explained that repetitive acceleration and deceleration forces may be equally damaging. Every tackle, collision, or sudden stop causes the brain to move inside the skull. Even without a diagnosed concussion, these repetitive forces may create inflammation and neurological stress over time.

In this fascinating episode of The Neil Haley Show and Celebrity Interviews Live from the Grotto, host Neil Haley and co-host Greg Hanna sat down with author and former covert operative Robert “Tosh” Plumlee to discuss his book Deep Cover: Shallow Graves and the extraordinary experiences that shaped his life. The conversation explored intelligence operations, Cold War history, psychological warfare, government secrecy, and Plumlee's perspective on some of the most controversial events in modern American history.Plumlee began by sharing how his journey started at an incredibly young age. After running away from home and joining the Texas National Guard as a teenager, he learned military skills that eventually led him into special operations and intelligence-related work. He explained how he became involved with aviation training and later flew missions connected to Cuba during the late 1950s. According to Plumlee, these operations involved transporting weapons and supplies during the Cuban Revolution, placing him in situations where different geopolitical interests often collided.Throughout the discussion, Plumlee emphasized that many covert operations are far more complex than the public realizes. He described an environment where intelligence agencies, military interests, political agendas, and international conflicts frequently overlapped. He argued that history often reveals layers of activity that remain hidden for years or even decades.One of the most intriguing portions of the interview focused on psychological warfare programs and intelligence training during the Cold War era. Plumlee described specialized training exercises designed to explore human behavior, influence, perception, and persuasion. He recounted experiences involving what participants believed were demonstrations of mental influence and psychological conditioning. These exercises, he explained, were part of larger efforts to understand how communication, propaganda, and psychological operations could affect human decision-making.The conversation then shifted to the role of media and communication in modern society. Plumlee discussed the importance intelligence organizations historically placed on controlling information and communication channels during times of conflict. He argued that whoever controls information often has significant influence over public perception and behavior. According to Plumlee, psychological warfare remains relevant today, although the methods have evolved alongside technology and digital media.Greg Hanna asked Plumlee why he ultimately decided to share his story publicly after decades of silence. Plumlee responded that transparency can be a powerful form of protection. He compared hidden truths to wounds that only heal when exposed to sunlight. Over the years, he testified before government investigations and committees, believing that some aspects of history deserved public examination rather than remaining permanently hidden.The discussion also touched on historical controversies, including allegations surrounding intelligence operations, political influence, organized crime connections, and government secrecy. Plumlee expressed concerns about classified records that remain unavailable to the public and questioned why certain historical documents continue to be withheld many years after the events occurred.As the conversation continued, Plumlee reflected on broader societal issues. He spoke about the consequences of political division, hostile rhetoric, and the impact of fear-based messaging. In his view, societies that constantly promote anger and hostility risk creating environments where violence and extremism can flourish. He warned that the words leaders use can have lasting effects on individuals and communities.When asked if he feared retaliation for speaking openly about controversial subjects,

On this episode of Celebrity Interviews Live from The Grotto, host Neil Haley interviews Jennifer Jones, an author, activist, and performer who made history as the first African American Rockette.Jennifer shares her remarkable journey from a young dancer inspired by Broadway to breaking one of the most significant barriers in American dance history. She discusses her years performing with the legendary Rockettes, her transition to Broadway, and her mission today to inspire young people through storytelling, speaking, and children's books.

Actress, boxer, and four-time World Games gold medalist Jenae Noonan has spent a lifetime defying expectations — from knocking out a model in 36 seconds at her first boxing match to becoming one of the world's most decorated Pancration athletes. In this candid conversation with host Neil Haley, Noonan traces her unlikely journey from MySpace-era social media promoter to semi-pro soccer player to combat sports champion, sharing what it felt like to compete in a world that wasn't yet ready to put women on the main card — and how she kept fighting anyway. She also opens up about her decision to retire at the end of 2024, driven not by defeat but by love — for her adopted special needs son and for the life she still wants to live.But her biggest fight was waiting just around the corner. Within weeks of hanging up her gloves, Noonan received two separate cancer diagnoses — skin cancer and breast cancer — delivered over the phone without warning and without answers, sending her into two weeks of funeral planning and quiet devastation. On February 12th of this year, she rang the bell: no sign of disease. Rather than return to competition, Noonan is channeling that experience into Rise, a rebranded coffee community designed to help cancer patients raise funds and find support through a simple, powerful model. Her message is clear — the toughest opponent she ever faced wasn't in the ring, and winning this one has given her a platform worth far more than another gold medal.

On this powerful episode of Celebrity Interviews Live at The Grotto, Neil Haley welcomes author Keith Zlomsowitch, whose life became intertwined with one of the most infamous criminal cases in American history — the murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman.Keith shares his firsthand account of dating Nicole during her separation from O. J. Simpson, the escalating harassment and stalking that followed, and the long-lasting emotional impact that shaped his life.His book, Stalked: It Could Have Been Me, offers a deeply personal look at love, danger, fear, and survival.❄️ How It Began — Aspen, 1992Keith recounts meeting Nicole in Aspen, Colorado while he owned multiple Mezzaluna restaurants.What started as a spontaneous introduction on a ski deck turned into an immediate connection. Nicole revealed she had separated from her abusive husband but did not initially disclose his identity.Their relationship progressed quickly — until O.J. Simpson confronted Keith at his Beverly Hills restaurant, making his presence and hostility unmistakably clear.

Veteran character actor Jasper Cole joined Neil to talk about his latest film Final Recovery, a project 15 years in the making and his first-ever lead role in nearly four decades of acting.After building a respected career as a supporting actor in projects like Get Out, Jasper stepped into the spotlight as the lead in this emotional thriller, calling it his “baby.” The film is currently available on Amazon and Tubi.Final Recovery blends thriller and horror elements while remaining deeply character-driven. Originally written as a straight drama by Jerry Lee Davis, the script evolved when director Harley Wallen came aboard and introduced darker tones.The film stars:Charlene TiltonCherish LeeJasper Cole in his first lead roleJasper praised Charlene Tilton's performance, noting audiences will see her in an entirely new light compared to her earlier television fame.

In this festive Christmas in July edition, Greg Hanna welcomes Hallmark favorite Andrew Walker to discuss the heartwarming new series Christmas at Sea airing on the Hallmark Channel.Andrew joins the show while actively filming a Christmas movie — in the middle of summer heat — proving that for Hallmark stars, it truly is Christmas all year long.

On this episode of The Neil Haley Show, Neil sits down with award-winning filmmaker and actress Elena Wohl to discuss her acclaimed dramedy series Middlehood — a bold, honest, and often hilarious exploration of midlife from a woman's perspective.The conversation dives into the cultural shift surrounding midlife identity, marriage, career reinvention, aging parents, and generational differences — topics that resonate deeply in today's world.Midlife From a Woman's PerspectiveThe emotional reality of turning 50Questioning long-term marriagesCareer burnout and reinventionThe internal fear of starting over

In this special simulcast of The Neil Haley Show and Celebrity Interviews Live from The Grotto, host Greg Hanna welcomes J. Randy Taraborrelli, New York Times bestselling author, to discuss his latest book on John F. Kennedy.After decades of writing about the Kennedy family, Taraborrelli turns his focus directly to JFK himself — offering a deeply researched and newly revealing portrait of the man behind the myth.

Kenny Nolan joined the show to talk about his long-awaited new album Peaceful Mountain, released on StarVista Music. After decades of writing iconic hits for other artists, Kenny is once again stepping into the spotlight with deeply personal, inspirational music.

On this powerful episode of Talk Nutrition, Kelly Springer and Neil Haley welcome award-winning filmmaker Susie Singer Carter to discuss her deeply personal and nationally recognized documentary, No Country for Old People.Susie never set out to make a film about nursing home abuse. It was born from heartbreak.

In this powerful segment of the Neil Haley Show, Salima Lin, Managing Partner at IBM Consulting, joins Neil to unpack the most critical findings from the IBM Institute for Business Values' Enterprise 2030 study. With 80% of business leaders expecting AI to significantly contribute to their revenues by 2030, the gap between expectation and execution has never been wider — and Lin knows exactly why. Only two in ten executives can clearly articulate where that AI-driven revenue will actually come from, and that disconnect, she argues, is the defining challenge of this era. Lin lays out a clear three-part playbook for C-suite leaders: build AI-first workflows from the ground up rather than patching technology onto outdated processes, embrace speed over certainty, and above all, invest deeply in people.The conversation takes a refreshingly human turn as Lin and Neil challenge the tired narrative that AI is simply a job killer. Lin makes the case that leaders who use AI to drive growth — rather than just productivity — will create new roles even as routine tasks evolve. She points to IBM's own internal transformation as proof, citing four and a half billion dollars in savings unlocked through AI and automation, along with tools like the Ask HR agent that deliver instant answers to employees around the clock. IBM is also backing its words with action, committing to skill 30 million people by 2030 and offering free AI training to 2 million learners by 2026. For anyone wondering what it truly means to become an AI-first enterprise, this conversation with Salima Lin is the place to start.

Billboard charting artist Evan Craft joins The Neil Haley Show to discuss his powerful debut book chronicling an extraordinary cycling journey across South America that redefined his purpose and faith. Craft opens up about the pivotal moment at age 25 when he performed for 80,000 people in Colombia and felt a profound disconnect, realizing he couldn't have a meaningful moment with such a massive crowd and questioning whether he had already peaked. Inspired by his best friend who cycled across the United States, Craft decided to combine cycling with purpose by inviting two Venezuelan Paralympic athletes on the journey, creating a tour that would cycle from place to place while raising money and awareness. The musician shares the remarkable story of how these athletes, both missing their right legs, arrived in Chile without proper prosthetics, leading to a faith-testing moment when Craft had to find a way to provide them with new prosthetics despite financial constraints.In this inspiring conversation, Craft explains his "extra mile mindset" philosophy, drawn from biblical teaching about going beyond what's expected to spark curiosity and open doors for conversations that can lead people to faith. He reveals his unexpected path into Latin Christian music, which began when he studied Spanish to communicate with Central American immigrants at his father's homeless shelter in Los Angeles, and how saying yes to opportunities in Tijuana churches launched a career he never planned. Craft candidly discusses his lowest moment during the bike ride when he blew up at his friend after cycling for four hours without food, confronting his own limitations as a leader, and how that experience taught him humility. The artist emphasizes the importance of leaving everything better than you found it, whether relationships or professional work, and encourages listeners to act now on their dreams because "time is batting 1,000 and the clock is ticking," reminding everyone that he's doing this at 57 because he won't be able to at 67.

Omaha Steaks' Chef David Rose joins The Neil Haley Show to share expert tips for conquering Thanksgiving dinner with organization, efficiency, and less stress. Rose emphasizes that success in the kitchen starts with a clean, organized workspace and a detailed food prep schedule planned days in advance, including thawing the turkey three to four days early and planning marination times carefully. The chef's key strategy involves making desserts like cheesecakes and bread pudding ahead of time, preparing sides that can be easily reheated, and creating a precise oven schedule—turkey at one o'clock, ham at two o'clock, rolls at three—so everything arrives hot and delicious at the dining table simultaneously. Rose stresses that home cooks don't need to make everything from scratch, encouraging a combination of beloved classic dishes with high-quality pre-made options from Omaha Steaks, allowing hosts to spend less time cooking and more time enjoying family.In this informative conversation, Chef Rose highlights Omaha Steaks' comprehensive holiday offerings, from pre-brined turkeys and hams to sides like garlic mashed potatoes and green beans, plus indulgent desserts like caramel apple tartlets. He announces exciting news that Omaha Steaks' Filet Mignon has earned the prestigious USDA Certified Tender designation, a honor specially reserved for the most tender beef cuts, making it perfect for holiday tables. Rose shares his personal Thanksgiving plans to host approximately 70 Jamaican friends and family coming from California, New York, and Georgia for a potluck celebration where he'll only prepare four dishes—a remarkably light load for the culinary expert. Throughout the conversation, Rose positions himself as viewers' "culinary guru," reminding listeners that Omaha Steaks provides beautiful cook guides and over a hundred recipes he's personally published to guide home cooks to greatness, with everything available at OmahaStakes.com.

America's Got Talent Season 20 winner Jessica Sanchez joins The Neil Haley Show in an emotional interview reflecting on her incredible 20-year journey from childhood dream to champion. Sanchez shares the surreal experience of hearing host Terry Crews call her name at the finale, describing how she became "a total mess on stage, just sobbing, full of joy and excitement" after achieving what she had dreamed about since competing on AGT Season 1 as a 10-year-old. She opens up about the moments of doubt during the competition, especially seeing all the amazing talents and wondering what would happen, but ultimately finding the inner strength to believe in herself throughout the entire process. The win becomes even more remarkable considering she competed and won while nine months pregnant, adding an extraordinary layer of challenge to an already demanding competition.Sanchez discusses the physical and mental challenges of maneuvering vocally through each performance while pregnant, explaining how she had to figure out how to deliver at the highest level despite the complications. She expresses deep gratitude to her fans who voted for her, stating she wishes she could give each one "the biggest hug and just thank them a million times over and over again." Looking ahead, Sanchez is excited about two major life changes: delivering her baby and becoming a new mom, while also pursuing music full force and continuing to inspire others to believe in themselves. Her powerful message resonates throughout the interview—never give up, no matter how long it takes. From a 10-year-old with a dream to a champion two decades later, Sanchez's story proves that perseverance, self-belief, and dedication can turn childhood dreams into reality, even when the journey takes 20 years.

Former Jacksonville Jaguars offensive lineman Marques Ogden delivers a raw and inspiring conversation about the parallels between professional football and entrepreneurship on The Neil Haley Show. Ogden, who played alongside defensive legends like Marcus Stroud and Hugh Douglas, discusses how the NFL taught him that success requires relentless work ethic, cultural fit, film study, and the ability to learn from mistakes rather than repeat them. He reflects on his journey from Howard University—an HBCU that produced nearly 10 NFL draft picks in his class—to being drafted by the Jaguars, emphasizing that making an NFL roster requires proving yourself daily regardless of draft position. However, the conversation takes a dramatic turn as Ogden reveals how after building the largest African-American owned subcontracting company in Baltimore City worth $25 million, his ego and toxic leadership destroyed everything by 2013.Ogden shares the painful details of hitting absolute rock bottom—filing for bankruptcy with 177 creditors and $5.5 million in debt, going through divorce, living in a roach-infested apartment, and working as a custodian when spoiled milk and garbage spilled on him in September 2013. This moment became his wake-up call to finally take accountability for his failures. After two and a half years of grinding, he secured his first paid speaking engagement in April 2016, and a transformative mentorship with Mel Robbins in 2018 taught him the crucial difference between motivation and inspiration. Over the past seven years, Ogden has spoken for over 85 Fortune 500 companies and built a podcast, "Get Authentic with Marques Ogden," that has garnered nearly 800,000 downloads since July. He emphasizes that entrepreneurship success comes from consistent grinding, building genuine relationships, and being vulnerable enough to share your authentic story—including all your failures and struggles—because that's what makes you relatable and inspirational to others.

Former Philadelphia Eagles defensive lineman Treyvon Hester joins The Neil Haley Show to share his incredible journey from being tutored in middle school to becoming an NFL star. Hester opens up about the academic and athletic challenges he faced transitioning from high school to the University of Toledo, where he had to sit out his first year as a gray shirt due to academic eligibility issues. This setback became the motivation he needed to take his education seriously, ultimately earning a criminal justice degree while becoming a four-year starter, team captain, and one of Toledo's first draft picks since 2004. He discusses being drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the seventh round (242nd pick) in 2017, the honor of wearing the silver and black, and the valuable lessons learned from playing alongside defensive legends.The conversation reaches its peak as Hester recounts the legendary moment that secured his place in Philadelphia Eagles history—blocking a field goal attempt during a wild card playoff game against the Chicago Bears that sealed the team's victory. He describes the split-second decision to "sell out for the play," the confusion when the ball deflected off his hand, and the eruption of celebration when he realized the kick had missed. Now in his second year as a coach at Penn Hills High School, his alma mater, Hester reflects on coming full circle and working to inspire the next generation of young athletes. He emphasizes the importance of gratitude, taking advantage of opportunities, and not allowing negativity to shape your life, sharing wisdom gained from both his triumphs and challenges in professional football.

In this inspiring episode of the Neil Haley Show, host Neil Haley and co-host Greg Hanna sit down with Cedella Marley, daughter of reggae legend Bob Marley, to discuss the groundbreaking immersive show "Bob Marley: Hope Road" now playing in Las Vegas. Cedella opens up about the creative vision behind this first-of-its-kind production that combines live performances, storytelling, and multi-sensory elements to transport audiences into her father's world. She explains how the show goes far beyond a typical tribute concert, creating an interactive journey through Bob Marley's music, message, and enduring cultural impact. Cedella shares the importance of having her father's grandchildren, Shasta and Zuri, audition and earn their roles as DJs in the production, demonstrating the family's commitment to merit over nepotism and ensuring the next generation understands that success must be earned.Throughout the conversation, Cedella reflects on why Bob Marley's music continues to resonate with audiences across all ages and backgrounds fifty years later. She discusses the universal themes of love, unity, hope, peace, and revolution that make her father's work timeless, noting how songs like "Nations Were Against Nation" speak directly to today's global challenges. Cedella emphasizes that her father's authenticity—singing only about experiences he lived through—is what gives his music its power to connect with people worldwide. She shares her personal philosophy that hope is the most important thing she's learned in life, especially as the world faces disasters and challenges. With over a thousand five-star reviews already, "Bob Marley: Hope Road" is touching audiences through joy, movement, and connection, featuring remarkable remixes by Salaam that make classic songs sound as fresh as if they were recorded today.

The stars of NBC's One Chicago franchise—Jesse Schramm from Chicago Med, Hanako Greensmith from Chicago Fire, and LaRoyce Hawkins from Chicago PD—join host Neil Haley for an exciting roundtable discussion as the interconnected series returns for another season premiering October 1st at 8 PM Eastern. The trio reveals what fans can expect from their respective shows, with Schramm discussing her character Dr. Hannah Asher's pregnancy storyline and ongoing recovery from addiction, Greensmith teasing Violet's increased responsibilities following a romance gone sour, and Hawkins exploring Atwater's loneliness in his personal life while serving as the invisible bridge his unit depends on after being disbanded at the end of last season.In this engaging conversation, the actors share insights into their characters' development and the challenges facing their teams this season. Schramm describes Chicago Med's dramatic opening with a collapsed dance floor flooding the hospital with patients while doctors simultaneously deal with personal health diagnoses. Greensmith highlights Chicago Fire's nail-biting incidents and phenomenal special effects while navigating new challenges and responsibilities. Hawkins explains how Chicago PD is digging deeper into who the characters are and where they're from, using their roots to motivate stories while the writing room breaks traditional formulas. All three actors express excitement about what they believe will be their best seasons yet, promising fans compelling drama, character growth, and the high-stakes action One Chicago is known for.

Retired NASA astronaut and Air Force Colonel Terry Virts joins The Neil Haley Show to discuss his unprecedented journey from commanding the International Space Station to launching a Democratic campaign for U.S. Senate in Texas. Virts shares compelling stories from his time in space, including the surreal experience of watching Russian forces attack Ukraine from orbit while serving as commander alongside Russian cosmonauts, demonstrating the ultimate test of bipartisanship. The former F-16 combat pilot explains how his teenage experience as an exchange student in Finland near the Soviet border shaped his commitment to defending democracy, and why he believes recent political developments have pushed America toward flirting with the same authoritarianism he once opposed.In this candid conversation, Virts outlines his vision for representing all Texans regardless of political affiliation, focusing on middle-class issues with healthcare reform as his top priority. He discusses the need to increase the supply of doctors by expanding residency programs, provide free preventative care including vaccines and cancer screenings, and address the impending loss of Affordable Care Act subsidies affecting millions of working-class Texans. Virts also reveals why he fired his Washington D.C. consultants who advised him never to mention Donald Trump by name, explains his strategy of traveling the state for in-person town halls and appearing on both Fox News and Newsmax, and shares his belief that Texas isn't as Republican as people think—it's mostly non-voting, making voter turnout the key to Democratic success in a state that hasn't elected a Democrat statewide in over 30 years.

Mary Amons, formerly of The Real Housewives of DC, opens up about her experience on the short-lived but infamous Bravo series that was canceled after just one season following the Salahi White House crash scandal. Amons reveals that none of the cast knew the Salahis were planning to crash the White House state dinner, though producers were suspicious enough to break the fourth wall and film them asking for the invitation. She shares behind-the-scenes insights about working with production, including her hands-on involvement in setting up scenes and camera work, which stemmed from her genuine interest in the filmmaking process. Fifteen years later, Amons reflects on how different the reality TV landscape was in 2010, when social media wasn't the powerful platform it is today and Bravo offered no structured support to help cast members leverage their exposure after the show's abrupt cancellation.The conversation takes a personal turn as Amons discusses navigating divorce while raising five children, acknowledging the trauma her reality TV experience caused them—something she learned about in their therapy sessions. She explains why she wasn't ready to capitalize on the opportunities that briefly appeared after the show, admitting she needed time for professional and personal growth. Now, with her children grown and supportive, Amons is focused on her thriving design business and an exciting new partnership with Baker Furniture, where she'll be speaking about timeless design at the Washington Design Center. She's finally ready to launch the lifestyle brand she's envisioned for years, drawing on her classic, Ralph Lauren-inspired aesthetic. With a recent full-page article in Us Weekly marking the show's 15th anniversary bringing renewed attention, Amons discusses the challenges of organizing a reunion with cast members scattered across the globe and her commitment to maintaining a "kinder, gentler" approach to reality television that prioritizes family and authentic connection over drama.

In this heartfelt interview, Lindsay Wagner celebrates the 50th anniversary of The Bionic Woman by sharing the remarkable origin story of how she almost turned down the role that would define her career. Wagner reveals that she initially dismissed the "crazy script" about people jumping off buildings until her mother convinced her to accept the role as a birthday gift for her younger sister, who was a devoted fan of The Six Million Dollar Man. What was meant to be a single episode where Jamie Summers would die turned into a cultural phenomenon after an overwhelming public outcry, including letters from children's hospitals, demanded the character's return. The subsequent episodes brought Jamie back through cryogenic preservation and eventually launched a groundbreaking series that would change television history.Wagner discusses her collaborative creative process with producer Kenny Johnson, revealing how they worked scene-by-scene to ensure Jamie Summers embodied both strength and sensitivity rather than becoming just "a man in a skirt." She explains how the show's mandate to include three or four bionic moments per episode led to innovative storytelling that balanced action with humor and humanity, from cleaning kitchens at super-speed to addressing real-life challenges faced by women. Wagner also reflects on winning an Emmy for Best Actress in a Dramatic Series—not for being an action hero, but for the dramatic depth she brought to the role. The interview touches on modern bionic technology, concerns about losing human connection in an increasingly mechanical world, and the serendipitous timing that led to the series premiere airing on her sister's birthday, making this 50th anniversary celebration even more meaningful for the entire family.

Real Housewives of Dallas stars Kameron Westcott and Kary Brittingham join the Neil Haley Show to discuss their new podcast "Cam and Kary Do Dallas" and their journeys on reality television. Kameron explains how fellow housewife Cary Deuber put her name in the pile for casting after years of volunteering full-time in Dallas charity work, and how she decided to document her journey creating Sparkle Dog Food on television to take her brand to the next level. Kary reveals a similar path, with Cary Deuber wanting her on the show since the beginning, but waiting until season four felt right. Her motivation was clear: financial independence. After four and a half years running her jewelry line Camo by Kary while on a budget and allowance from her husband, she wanted to make her own money and take her business to new heights. Both women candidly discuss the fear and uncertainty of joining reality TV, especially being "unfiltered" and not knowing what would come out of their mouths on camera.The duo dives deep into their podcasting venture, explaining how their frequent phone conversations and complementary energies—Kameron bringing thoughtfulness while Kary brings unfiltered boldness—made launching a podcast the natural next step. They reveal their unique approach of not discussing topics beforehand to capture authentic, natural reactions, and their mission to differentiate themselves by bringing on other Housewives to discuss their entrepreneurial journeys and empower women. Kameron and Kary discuss the unexpected challenges of podcast production, from selecting compelling topics that will interest the majority of listeners to editing hours of rambling content down to 40 entertaining minutes. They emphasize their goal of helping viewers understand the real them beyond the small glimpses shown on the show, and their passion for encouraging women to support each other instead of sabotaging one another—a lesson Kameron sees even among her 13-year-old daughter's peers. The podcast launches January 13th on all major platforms, with new episodes dropping every Wednesday.

Twilight Saga star Kiowa Gordon joins Caregiver Dave on the Neil Haley Show for an extraordinary conversation about his unexpected journey into Hollywood. Kiowa shares the remarkable origin story that sounds almost too good to be true: at 18, his Sunday school teacher Stephanie Meyer (author of Twilight) told him about an open casting call for her next movie, Twilight: New Moon, suggesting he audition to play a werewolf. As a self-described "slacker in high school," Kiowa didn't take it seriously until his mom came into his room a month after the audition to tell him he'd landed the role of Embry Call. He discusses the surreal experience of "wolf camp" where the production put the actors through training to pack on muscle, gaining 10 pounds between getting cast and filming, and reveals they never even made him take his shirt off at the audition—they just assumed he'd look fine under it.Kiowa reflects on the wild fan phenomenon that followed, from receiving fan mail asking for autographs to traveling the country for Twilight conventions where hundreds of fans would show up for hours of meet-and-greets. He describes the "vampire balls" where fans dressed up like they were at prom, and how he and fellow wolf pack members would surprise fans camping out overnight at premieres by playing acoustic guitar and singing songs. Now at 30 and in the best shape of his life, Kiowa discusses his current projects including the CW's Roswell reboot, where he plays a military family member hunting aliens alongside his brother character, and the Netflix World War II miniseries The Liberator. Shot entirely on blue screen to create a graphic novel aesthetic, The Liberator tells the story of Lieutenant Felix Sparks and his company of American and Mexican-American misfits fighting Nazis across Europe. Kiowa also opens up about fatherhood to his six-year-old daughter and witnessing his mother's caregiving journey through family illness and loss.

NBC's Good Girls stars Retta and Mae Whitman join the Neil Haley Show to discuss their dramedy about three suburban mothers who turn to crime to solve their financial problems. Retta explains her character Ruby Hill, a happily married mother of two whose sick child drives her to join her friends in a desperate grocery store robbery, while Mae describes playing Annie Marks, a young mother fighting for custody of her daughter after having her at 16 or 17. Both actresses emphasize the show's unique approach to the antihero concept, presenting complicated women making desperate choices with genuinely good intentions. Mae highlights how the show masterfully blends multiple genres—starting as a grounded family drama before sweeping viewers into a thrilling world of crime, all while maintaining a comedic tone that makes the entire experience both tense and entertaining.The conversation explores why audiences root for these characters despite their criminal actions, with Retta noting the classic antihero formula of doing bad things for good reasons. Mae passionately discusses the importance of seeing unapologetic female antiheroes on television, characters who are complicated, make mistakes, and face consequences while still having good hearts. She contrasts this with the abundance of male antiheroes on TV who rarely face the same scrutiny. Both actresses explain how the show's realism—from robbing a grocery store instead of a major bank to the fact that Annie works there and knows it gets robbed regularly—makes the premise believable and relatable. They invite viewers to tune in Mondays at 10 p.m. Eastern on NBC to follow these women's journey and see where their desperate choices lead them.

Hip-hop pioneer Eric B joins the Neil Haley Show to share the incredible story of how he and Rakim revolutionized rap music in the 1980s. From working at radio station WBLS in New York to assembling a compilation of talented MCs from across the Tri-State area, Eric explains how a chance meeting at a dance in Long Island led to one of hip-hop's most legendary partnerships. He recounts their groundbreaking deals, including being the first rap group to receive a million-dollar album advance and three million dollars for publishing, and shares the dramatic story of turning down Russell Simmons' advice to accept $400,000 from Island Records when MCA offered double at 2 a.m. in a New York nightclub. Eric also discusses their historic world tours, from taking the Concorde to play London and New York on the same day to performing in Helsinki, Finland, where young white audiences showed that music transcends all boundaries.Beyond his music career, Eric B reveals his diverse ventures into boxing management, working with champions like Floyd Mayweather and Riddick Bowe, and his time at All-American Communications learning television and film production. He emphasizes his business acumen, describing how he reads P&L statements "in his sleep" and contracts "for fun," which enabled him to set industry benchmarks that changed hip-hop forever. Eric announces the highly anticipated Eric B and Rakim reunion tour starting April 8th in Boston, describing it as a family celebration where they'll take their kids, friends, and fans who've always wanted to experience tour life. He reflects on the longevity of their legacy, the support from younger artists like Nas, and how he became the "bad guy" among his peers for demanding fair compensation, inadvertently raising the bar for all rappers entering the business.

Actress Michele Greene takes listeners behind the scenes of the beloved legal drama LA Law, where she portrayed attorney Abby Perkins from 1986 to 1991, earning an Emmy nomination in 1989. Greene shares the remarkable story of landing the role at just 24 years old without even auditioning—creator Steven Bochco simply called and offered her the part after working with her on Bay City Blues, his short-lived baseball series. She reveals she had to choose between LA Law and a role opposite Andy Griffith, ultimately making the decision that would define her career. Greene provides intimate character analysis of Abby Perkins, describing her as a nice girl from Ohio trying to balance demanding career ambitions with traditional roles as wife and mother, distinguishing her from other characters who always had snappy comebacks and perfect responses.The interview explores Greene's current life as a published novelist with two books released through Simon & Schuster and Harper Collins, both young adult novels that have been in development for television and film. She discusses her five-year hiatus from acting to focus on raising her adopted son as a single parent, her work as artistic director of an emerging theater, and her extensive theater performances at the LA Shakespeare Center. Greene opens up about her caregiving responsibilities for her 91-year-old mother who lives in an assisted living community and her experience serving as guardian for two elderly cousins who passed away in 2018. She enthusiastically promotes the upcoming LA Law reunion event at the LAX Westin on February 2nd and 3rd, describing the emotional experience of the entire cast reuniting on "The Talk" in September—the first time they'd all been together since the show ended.

In this compelling interview, Michael Harney from Netflix's groundbreaking series Orange is the New Black discusses the show's fourth season launch and its profound impact on representation in television. Harney reflects on his journey to the role after working with creator Jenji Kohan on Weeds, explaining how he immediately said yes when approached for the project because he knew the quality she would create. He shares his initial uncertainty about the show's potential success, never imagining it would become the cultural phenomenon that helped establish Netflix as a major player in original programming. Harney emphasizes how the show's diverse cast gives voice to marginalized communities that have been oppressed and underrepresented, making his work feel like activism within the entertainment industry.The conversation delves deep into the importance of backstory in the show's storytelling approach, which Harney considers essential to its success. He explains how revealing why people wind up incarcerated and why prison workers take certain actions allows viewers to identify personally with the characters and realize "that could be me." Harney thoughtfully discusses the complexities of the justice system, acknowledging that it's not black and white but rather a systemic struggle that often fails to find what really happened in situations. He addresses issues like housing mentally ill individuals in prisons rather than appropriate facilities, expressing hope that the show will raise questions and potentially inspire real-world changes in how society handles incarceration and justice.

Hollywood icon John Schneider joins the show to discuss his bold new venture that's disrupting the traditional film distribution model. Drawing on his extensive career from "The Dukes of Hazzard" to "Smallville" and Tyler Perry productions, Schneider reveals how he's built Cineflix DoD (Digital on Demand)—a distribution platform designed specifically to protect independent filmmakers from being exploited by traditional distributors who offer "pennies on the dollar" and eventually cut creators out of their own deals. Inspired by the wisdom of his "Dukes of Hazzard" co-star Denver Pyle who told him he had "the strength of your ignorance," Schneider explains his tenacious approach to creating a Netflix-style competitor that puts filmmakers at the center of both the storytelling and the financial chain, ensuring they receive most of the profits to fund their next projects without having to apologize to investors.Schneider unveils the premiere of "Like Sun," a psychological crime drama starring Don Shanks (Michael Myers from "Halloween" and "Smothered"), which launches with an innovative collective viewing experience on Thursday night at 8 PM Central. Drawing inspiration from Walt Disney's personal approach on "The Wonderful World of Disney," Schneider has designed a unique interactive event where audiences can stream the film simultaneously to recreate the communal feeling of going to the movies in the 1960s, followed by a live Q&A session filmed from his studio's screening room—just like a film festival. This groundbreaking approach allows independent filmmakers, actors, and film enthusiasts to ask questions about the creative process, casting, and filmmaking while experiencing the magic of cinema in the digital age. Schneider's mission is clear: transform how people think about independent filmmaking and distribution by putting power back in the hands of storytellers and creating opportunities for diamonds in the rough to succeed without getting exploited by the industry's traditional gatekeepers.

Actress Jasmine Savoy Brown shares her remarkable journey from 600 auditions to landing breakthrough roles on HBO's "The Leftovers" and Freeform's "Stitchers." Brown candidly discusses the struggles before her big break, including couch surfing throughout Los Angeles for over a year, working graveyard shifts at a diner, and booking only a handful of commercials and small co-star roles despite constant auditioning. When she finally received the call about booking "The Leftovers," she immediately began weeping with emotion, catching her team off guard with the depth of her reaction. Her role as Evie Murphy in season two brought a much-needed lightness to the dark HBO drama about 2% of the world's population mysteriously disappearing—her character is a vibrant 17-year-old who sings, plays softball, and is full of life before disappearing with her friends after an earthquake, setting up the season's central mystery.Brown also discusses her contrasting role on "Stitchers" as Nina, a confident comic book store employee and video game nerd who becomes a love interest, allowing her to showcase polar opposite characters from dark HBO drama to lighter Freeform procedural within the same period. She emphasizes the significance of wearing her natural hair on television, revealing she's turned down roles that required straightening her hair because making a statement about the beauty of African American natural hair is important to her. Fans responded enthusiastically to her character breaking stereotypes—being both a proud geek about comic books and video game history while still being portrayed as beautiful and desirable rather than in the typical "unattractive nerd" light. Brown credits the entire production team for creating such a strong character while acknowledging her pride in representing natural hair positively. Though "The Leftovers" season three won't premiere until spring 2017 and "Stitchers" renewal status for her character remains uncertain, Brown maintains optimism, joking that since Nina didn't die, she's assuming she'll return to continue the fan-favorite storyline.

Grammy Award-winning producer and music mogul Jermaine Dupri discusses the success of Lifetime's "The Rap Game" as it enters its highly anticipated third season, premiering Friday, January 13th at 10 p.m. Eastern. Dupri reveals his talent discovery secrets, explaining that finding amazing artists requires constant interest in new talent and genuine listening—he's only had two to three artists fail to meet expectations in his entire career, and those instances occurred when he overestimated their abilities rather than them refusing his guidance. His partnership with Queen Latifah came naturally from their years-long relationship, and together they created something unique that commands attention simply by having both their names attached. The show fills a void in television by providing cultural education about hip-hop that isn't being seen anywhere else, targeting 12-to-16-year-olds while attracting parents who watch alongside their children.What differentiates "The Rap Game" from shows like "American Idol" and "The Voice" is its focus on hip-hop culture, which Dupri argues resonates more strongly with young people than any other genre. Kids are deeply interested in hip-hop lifestyle elements including fashion, sneakers, and the broader culture surrounding the music. Season three promises elevated competition with higher talent levels, more episodes, and increased appearances from Dupri's celebrity friends sharing invaluable industry knowledge. With season four already beginning production just days after this interview, Dupri expresses amazement at his career trajectory from making music and running his own label to now producing a successful television series entering its fourth season. Looking toward hip-hop's future, Dupri hopes the genre returns to celebrating individual artist styles and distinctive sounds, referencing the Tupac versus Biggie era when each artist had completely unique, instantly recognizable music—a separation that allowed them to become iconic rather than today's artists who create indistinguishable records.

Three-time Super Bowl champion and NFL analyst Mark Schlereth joins The Neil Haley Show to provide his expert breakdown of the upcoming championship game between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots. Schlereth confidently picks the Seahawks to win, citing their exceptional six-week run leading up to the big game where they've dominated on offense, defense, and special teams. He emphasizes the importance of special teams play as an indicator of team depth, noting that Seattle's ability to cover kicks and execute returns with aggression demonstrates they have more quality players than their opponents. Schlereth also praises the incredible redemption story of Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold, who was considered a bust after being drafted third overall by the New York Jets and subsequently dumped by Carolina before finding success in Minnesota and ultimately landing in Seattle via San Francisco.When analyzing key matchups that could decide the game, Schlereth focuses on Seattle's defensive front seven against New England's offensive line, which features two rookies on the left side who have given up significant pressures and sacks throughout the playoffs—including 10 sacks total in their first two playoff games. He warns that if Seattle can create pressure and get quarterback Drake May on the ground, they could force turnovers, as May lost three fumbles in those games. However, Schlereth also acknowledges that May's mobility presents a significant challenge for Seattle, noting his 65-plus rushing yards against Denver and his ability to eviscerate man-to-man coverage with his legs. He highlights wide receiver JSN as a potential difference-maker despite running a 4.5-second 40-yard dash, praising his ability to create instant separation at the top of routes and his uncoverable skills that make him phenomenal to watch alongside Darnold.

Philip Winchester joins the Neil Haley Show to discuss NBC's "Chicago Justice," where he stars as prosecutor Peter Stone, a character living in the constant shadow of his father Ben Stone, the main prosecutor from the original Law & Order series. Winchester explains how his character views justice in absolute terms—black and white, right and wrong—but faces constant challenges from district attorney Carl Weathers, an elected official who questions Stone's aggressive pursuit of cases because losses could impact his reelection prospects. He reveals Peter Stone's backstory as a former Chicago Cubs pitcher whose arm injury forced him to fall back on law, creating a complicated and estranged relationship with his famous father that they maintain primarily over the phone from separate cities.The actor discusses tonight's unprecedented three-hour crossover event beginning at 8 p.m. Eastern, starting with a fire at a rave warehouse on "Chicago Fire," continuing with the investigation on "Chicago PD," and concluding with his prosecution on "Chicago Justice," with "Chicago Med" woven throughout all three hours. Winchester praises working with Carl Weathers, joking about their first scene together when he suggested Weathers should have a gatling gun on the wall next to his boxing gloves and wooden hand, references the actor appreciated. The conversation takes an emotional turn as Winchester remembers Bill Paxton, who recently passed away at 61, recalling how Paxton took him and other young actors under his wing during the filming of "Thunderbirds" in London when Winchester was 24, teaching them about camera work, on-set management, and the craft of acting, describing Paxton as an actor's actor who loved the process and wasn't afraid to share his knowledge with the next generation.

Actor Yul Vazquez calls in from a blustery day in New York City to discuss the season finale of NBC's "Midnight, Texas," where he plays Reverend Emilio Sheehan, the oldest inhabitant of the supernatural town and its moral compass who harbors a dark secret—he transforms into a weretiger during full moons. Vazquez explains the fascinating duality of his character, a man of the cloth who struggles to reconcile his violent nature with his religious calling, spending his energy trying to keep his dangerous side in check and ensuring nobody gets hurt when he transforms. He teases that tonight's season finale will have viewers putting on their seatbelts as the demon threat that's been building all season finally comes to a head in what he promises is "a hell of an episode."The conversation turns to Vazquez's enduring association with Seinfeld, where he appeared in two memorable episodes including "The Ribbon" and the controversial Puerto Rican Day Parade episode, noting that no matter how many projects he completes, people still recognize him from that iconic show. He enthusiastically discusses the passionate fan base of "Midnight, Texas," explaining how he and the cast live-tweet with viewers during each episode and how these genuine fans know Charlaine Harris's books better than the actors themselves, often commenting on how the show matches their imagination from years of reading. Vazquez makes an impassioned plea for networks to pay attention to social media engagement and streaming numbers rather than just traditional ratings, arguing that fans are tired of investing in shows only to have them cancelled, and warning that there could be "a riot" if networks don't start recognizing the power of devoted audiences who trend every episode and deliver strong demographic numbers.

Brooklyn Nine-Nine actresses Stephanie Beatriz and Melissa Fumero discuss the show's successful transition to NBC and Beatriz's directorial debut with the episode "He Said, She Said," which tackles the #MeToo movement while maintaining the show's signature comedic tone. Beatriz expresses her excitement about directing an episode that follows her character Rosa Diaz and Fumero's character Amy Santiago investigating a case related to the movement, describing the challenge of balancing serious social issues with comedy and the pressure that comes with wanting to honor important stories while still making people laugh. She credits the episode's writer and the safe, comfortable environment she created on set for allowing the cast to take risks and fully commit to the material.Reflecting on what she learned from directing, Beatriz shares her newfound appreciation for the crew's tireless work, noting how actors receive special treatment with comfortable chairs and breaks while crew members work nonstop from arrival to departure. Fumero praises her friend and co-star's directorial skills, emphasizing Beatriz's ability to communicate clearly about what she wanted to see and achieve, creating a relaxed, "homey" atmosphere that felt natural since it was one of their own behind the camera rather than an outside director. Both actresses express gratitude for the devoted fan community that kept the show alive and followed it from one network to another, with Beatriz joking about how creator Dan Goor invented this pretend world that felt so real, good, happy, and safe that viewers remained loyal through the transition to NBC's Thursday night lineup.

Anne Heche joins the Neil Haley Show to discuss her powerful role as Patricia Campbell, Deputy Director of Defense Intelligence for the United States, in NBC's action drama "The Brave," describing the intensive preparation required to portray such a high-ranking official. Heche explains that her character runs an Omega team—special forces units composed of Delta, SEAL, and CIA operatives—and must make life-and-death decisions that impact operations taking place 5,000 miles away while holding what she describes as an encyclopedia of knowledge about pain and darkness in the world. The show takes viewers to 13 different countries over 13 episodes, exploring how these elite teams work together across international boundaries to combat threats and maintain global peace.The actress reveals that her research included speaking with Pentagon officials who worked alongside Condoleezza Rice, and when she asked if there was anything to smile about in such a position, the answer was simply "no." However, Heche emphasizes that Patricia Campbell is not defined by darkness but rather by hope and the desire to solve the world's problems to create peace. She discusses how the role has changed her perspective on current events and news consumption, noting that someone she met at the Pentagon laughed at her for believing what she read in the New York Times, leading her to search for information in different places and recognize that what the public is told isn't always what's actually happening. Heche stresses the importance of telling stories about military personnel who sacrifice their lives daily, arguing that these teams operating in 136 countries deserve recognition for their service above self.

Broadway legend and Emmy winner Kristen Chenoweth discusses her scene-stealing role as Lavinia Peck in NBC's mockumentary comedy "Trial & Error: Lady Killer" Season 2, where she plays a larger-than-life Southern first lady accused of murdering her husband after 40 years of living in Grey Gardens-type seclusion in her East Peck mansion. Chenoweth explains how she drew on her own Southern upbringing to bring authenticity to the character, noting that Lavinia has adopted the mannerisms and speech patterns of 1930s and 1940s movie stars and refuses to learn anyone's names, simply calling people "Lawyer," "Judge," and "Other person." She describes the creative freedom writer Jeff Astroff gave her through confessional scenes where she speaks directly to the camera, revealing both Lavinia's dramatic flair and her underlying sadness and loneliness.The four-foot-eleven actress discusses her transition from theater to television, emphasizing that she's always simply been an actor who doesn't distinguish between mediums but rather focuses on whether a role is compelling. Chenoweth reveals that the show is loosely based on Robert Durst and that she's been immersing herself in true crime documentaries like "The Jinx" and "Making a Murderer" to prepare for the role, noting her addiction to Investigation Discovery programming during sleepless nights. She expresses her goal of keeping audiences guessing throughout the season about whether Lavinia is a villain or beloved figure, guilty or innocent, while maintaining the show's satirical edge that pokes fun at the true crime documentary genre that has captivated television audiences.

MSNBC's Ari Melber joins Neil Haley to celebrate the one-year anniversary of "The Beat," reflecting on a tumultuous news year covering the Trump administration and discussing how his show has grown to attract 1.3 million nightly viewers—more than any show in the history of its timeslot and surpassing CNN's programming at 6 p.m. and later. Melber explains his unique approach to news programming, which combines breaking news coverage with deeper investigative reports and cultural segments, including recent interviews with both Jay Goldberg (Trump's former lawyer before Michael Cohen) and critics of the president, as well as Broadway star Daveed Diggs from Hamilton. He emphasizes his commitment to providing fair, objective, and thoughtful coverage regardless of viewers' political perspectives.The conversation takes a deep dive into education policy as Melber discusses his critical examination of Education Secretary Betsy DeVos and her approach to running the Department of Education. Drawing on his own experience attending a magnet public school in Seattle that had both National Merit scholars and dealt with an on-campus shooting, Melber shares his nuanced understanding of how complex education issues are and why testing alone provides only a narrow slice of what's happening in schools. He and Neil debate the challenges of school choice, charter schools, and voucher programs, with Melber questioning DeVos's admission that she hasn't figured out how to visit and improve lower-performing schools, arguing that as Secretary of Education for America, she needs to be concerned about all schools, not just some of them.

In this important episode of the Total Celebrity Show on the Total Education Network, host Neil Haley sits down with NFL Hall of Fame running back Barry Sanders and neurological expert Dr. Greg O'Shanick to discuss their advocacy campaign Tackle PBA, which aims to raise awareness about pseudobulbar affect (PBA)—a little-known neurological condition affecting approximately 2 million Americans, including many former football players. Dr. O'Shanick explains that PBA causes uncontrollable and unpredictable episodes of laughing and crying that are completely out of context with what the person is actually feeling or experiencing. Someone with PBA might laugh uncontrollably during a solemn church service or begin crying during a routine parent-teacher conference, leading to embarrassment, social isolation, and damaged relationships in both personal and professional settings. The condition occurs in individuals who have other chronic neurological conditions such as traumatic brain injuries, concussions, strokes, multiple sclerosis, Lou Gehrig's disease, or Alzheimer's disease. Crucially, Dr. O'Shanick emphasizes that PBA is treatable and that people don't need to suffer in silence or feel stigmatized by their symptoms.Barry Sanders shares his personal connection to the cause through his work with the Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund, which conducted a survey revealing that one-third of former NFL players exhibit PBA-like symptoms. These findings deeply resonated with Sanders, as many of these players are men he competed with and against throughout his legendary career—athletes who gave everything to the game and deserve access to proper diagnosis and treatment. Dr. O'Shanick notes that family members are often the first to recognize PBA symptoms, as affected individuals may not fully grasp what's happening to them or may attribute their emotional outbursts to grief or sadness related to their primary condition. The Tackle PBA campaign encourages anyone experiencing these symptoms or concerned about a loved one to visit tacklepba.org, where they can take a self-assessment test and find resources for discussing the condition with their physician. Both Sanders and Dr. O'Shanick stress that awareness and education are critical first steps, as PBA has been understood medically for over 100 years but often goes undiagnosed simply because patients and healthcare providers aren't familiar with it. Sanders also reflects on his life after his remarkable football career, discussing how his platform has allowed him to engage in meaningful charity work and advocacy efforts like Tackle PBA while remaining a passionate fan of the game that gave him so many opportunities.

In this fascinating episode of Authors Corner on the Total Education Network, host Neil Haley welcomes cycling legend Greg LeMond and co-author Dr. Mark Hom to discuss their groundbreaking book "The Science of Fitness: Power, Performance and Endurance." Greg LeMond, the three-time Tour de France champion, teams up with Dr. Hom to explore the science behind athletic performance, recovery, and the crucial role of mitochondria in human energy production. Their collaboration brings together LeMond's decades of elite athletic experience with Dr. Hom's medical expertise to create a comprehensive guide that challenges conventional training wisdom.Dr. Mark Hom explains how his personal quest to understand exercise physiology at age fifty led him to focus on mitochondria—the cellular powerhouses that convert food and body fat into energy for muscles, heart, and brain. He reached out to Greg LeMond because the cycling champion's career uniquely encompassed both peak mitochondrial performance and the devastating effects of mitochondrial myopathy that forced his early retirement. LeMond's experience with lead poisoning and its impact on his mitochondria provides invaluable insights into the delicate balance required for optimal athletic performance and the dangers of overtraining.

In this heartfelt episode of The Neil Haley Show, host Neil Haley sits down with legendary actor Robert Wagner to discuss his latest book, "I Loved Her in the Movies: Memories of Hollywood's Legendary Actresses." Robert Wagner, best known for his long-running television series Hart to Hart alongside Stephanie Powers, reflects on his remarkable career spanning decades and the extraordinary women who shaped his journey in Hollywood. Wagner shares intimate insights into what made these leading ladies so special and why he felt compelled to honor their contributions to cinema and his life.Robert Wagner opens up about the collaborative process behind his book, working closely with co-author Scott Eyman to capture the essence of Hollywood's most iconic actresses. He discusses the incredible range of talent he worked with throughout his career, from Audrey Hepburn and Bette Davis to Faye Dunaway, Ethan Hawke, and Lena Olin. Wagner emphasizes that these women weren't just talented performers—they were consummate professionals who brought unparalleled energy and dedication to every set. He candidly acknowledges the unique challenges actresses faced, balancing the demands of their craft with personal lives, relationships, and families, often sacrificing more than their male counterparts to achieve excellence in their profession.Throughout the conversation, Robert Wagner reveals his approach to acting and working with leading ladies: remaining completely open, listening intently, and staying present in the moment rather than arriving with preconceived notions. He describes how these actresses became invaluable collaborators who supported him through long shooting days and multiple takes, creating an atmosphere of mutual respect and artistic excellence. Wagner's philosophy of being vulnerable and empathetic with his co-stars allowed him to build genuine connections that translated into compelling on-screen chemistry and performances that have stood the test of time.

In this engaging episode of Living a Legacy, host Eric sits down with acclaimed actor Kevin Weisman, best known for his iconic role as Marshall Flinkman on the hit series Alias. Kevin shares his journey through television, from his early days working with J.J. Abrams on Felicity to becoming one of the five core cast members who appeared in all five seasons of Alias alongside Jennifer Garner, Victor Garber, Ron Rifkin, and Carl Lumbly. The conversation reveals Kevin's deep appreciation for the craft and the legendary talents he's worked with throughout his career.Kevin Weisman opens up about the secret to his success in Hollywood: authenticity and commitment. Drawing from his theater training at Circle in the Square in New York, Kevin explains how he approaches every role with honesty rather than relying on tricks or gimmicks. He shares memorable experiences working with industry giants like Billy Bob Thornton on Goliath, Quentin Tarantino, Faye Dunaway, and Ethan Hawke on Alias, and discusses his unique approach to improvisation within scripted dialogue. Kevin's philosophy of "just committing" to choices, even when they might be mistakes, has led to some of his most memorable on-screen moments.The discussion delves into Kevin's extensive television career beyond Alias, including his work on Scorpion alongside Elias Koteas, The Blacklist, and his collaboration with comedy legends like Stephen Merchant on Hello Ladies. Kevin reflects on his friendship with Jack Black from their UCLA theater school days and his musical endeavors with Kyle Gass of Tenacious D in their band Trainwreck. These connections highlight the collaborative nature of Kevin's career and his commitment to building genuine relationships in the industry.Throughout the conversation, Kevin emphasizes the importance of being a good listener and staying present in the moment, skills that serve him not only as an actor but also in his personal life and relationships with his children. He discusses the evolution of television production, comparing the cinematic quality of Alias shot on 35mm film to today's HD productions, and shares insights into the fast-paced nature of television work where actors must shoot eight pages of dialogue per day and be ready to commit fully to their performances.The episode concludes with Kevin Weisman sharing his legacy vision: to be remembered as someone authentic who made people laugh and truly listened to others. He encourages listeners to support Save the Children and No Kid Hungry, organizations working to ensure children have access to meals, especially those who rely on school lunch programs. Kevin's passion for giving back through charity work, combined with his dedication to authentic storytelling, creates a powerful message about living a legacy of impact both on and off screen.

Join us for an engaging conversation with acclaimed actor Harold Perrineau, best known for his unforgettable role as Link in The Matrix trilogy. Harold takes us behind the scenes of his surreal experience on the set of The Nebuchadnezzar, sharing how he became the biggest Matrix nerd while filming the iconic sci-fi franchise that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. From comic con appearances to the enduring legacy of a trilogy that changed cinema forever, Harold reflects on how The Matrix remains a cultural touchstone that fans want to revisit again and again, just as he did with his oldest daughter.Beyond The Matrix, Harold opens up about his powerful and challenging role as an autistic adult on TNT's Claws, a character that has become one of his most meaningful performances. He discusses the extensive research he conducted to authentically portray someone whose brain is simply wired differently, his commitment to avoiding stereotypes or mockery, and how his own family experiences with autism informed his approach. Harold explains how his character's loving relationship with his sister, played by Niecy Nash, provides the emotional grounding that balances the show's wild, money-laundering nail salon antics. This conversation showcases an actor who takes representation seriously and uses his platform to bring depth, humanity, and respect to every role he inhabits.