Vanguard of Hollywood

Vanguard of Hollywood

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A Feel-Good Classic Hollywood Podcast | Explore the films and stars from Hollywood’s Golden Age. These stars were trailblazers: They did it first and they did it best! Join Shannon Allen, the Classic Hollywood biographer and recipe developer behind MacaronsAndMimi.com, as she highlights a new classic film or star each week. Enjoy behind-the-scenes details of the films and Shannon’s passionate, meticulously-researched insights into the lives of the stars who made these films great.

Shannon Allen


    • May 14, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • monthly NEW EPISODES
    • 33m AVG DURATION
    • 89 EPISODES

    Ivy Insights

    The Vanguard of Hollywood podcast is an absolute gem for classic Hollywood enthusiasts. Hosted by Shannon, this podcast delves into the lives and careers of iconic stars from the golden age of Hollywood, providing in-depth research and fascinating insights. It is a refreshing departure from other podcasts that tend to insert political biases into their episodes.

    One of the standout aspects of this podcast is the impeccable research that goes into each episode. Shannon's dedication to getting the facts right shines through in every episode. Listeners are treated to a comprehensive look at the lives and careers of stars like Jimmy Stewart, Katharine Hepburn, and Doris Day, with details that go beyond what is commonly known. The storytelling format is engaging and Shannon's enthusiasm for classic Hollywood history is infectious.

    Another great aspect of The Vanguard of Hollywood is its ability to inspire listeners. Shannon has a talent for finding the inspirational elements in the stories and struggles of these stars. She presents their lives in such a way that it uplifts and motivates listeners. This positive approach sets it apart from other podcasts that focus on the dark side or scandals of old Hollywood.

    While it's challenging to find any major drawbacks to this podcast, one minor gripe could be that some episodes may not appeal to everyone's personal interests or taste in classic Hollywood stars. However, given the wide variety of topics covered, there is plenty for everyone to enjoy.

    In conclusion, The Vanguard of Hollywood podcast is a must-listen for fans of classic Hollywood. Shannon's passion for the subject matter shines through in every episode as she tells captivating stories about iconic stars with meticulous research and without any political bias. Whether you're a long-time lover of old Hollywood or new to exploring its history, this podcast provides an entertaining and educational experience that will leave you wanting more.



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    Latest episodes from Vanguard of Hollywood

    A Disney Original: An Interview with Sharon Baird

    Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2025 47:49


    Sharon Baird is a dancer, singer, and actress.  You may know her best as one of Walt Disney's original Mouseketeers on the classic television show, The Mickey Mouse Club.  As one of only nine Mouseketeers to appear on all three seasons of the show, Sharon proved herself to be the best dancer in the bunch.  Beginning her dance training at three years old, Sharon has danced with the likes of Mitzi Gaynor, Dean Martin, and Donald O'Connor.  Sharon has also used dance to bring to life countless characters, including the puppets of Sid and Marty Krofft on such television shows as H.R. Pufnstuf, and the title character of the 1986 cult classic, Ratboy.  Listen as Sharon and Shannon discuss Sharon's remarkable Hollywood career and passion for dance.

    Elvis' Leading Lady: An Interview with Cynthia Pepper

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2025 41:54


    As Private First Class Midge Riley in 1964's Kissin' Cousins, Cynthia Pepper holds the distinction of being one of Elvis Presley's leading ladies.  In the film, Cynthia lived the dream of countless Elvis fans as she was chased by Elvis, sung to by Elvis, and kissed by Elvis.  Even more enviable, behind the scenes, Cynthia formed a true friendship with her legendary leading man.  Listen as Shannon and Cynthia discuss Cynthia's time with Elvis, as well as her roles on countless classic television shows, including My Three Sons and The Addams Family.

    Sweet and Sassy: An Interview with Ann-Margret

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2025 48:31


    Ann-Margret is a living legend.  From Bye Bye Birdie (1963) and Viva Las Vegas (1964) to Tommy (1975) and Grumpy Old Men (1993), from her Billboard charting music career to her show stopping TV specials, Ann-Margret's multi-dimensional talent and charisma are unrivaled.   Join Ann-Margret and Shannon as they discuss Ann-Margret's beautiful relationship with her parents, her incredible career, the wonderful costars and friends she worked with -- Pat Boone, Lucille Ball, Dean Martin, and John Wayne, to name a few -- her continued support of our troops, and the faith and gratitude that form the remarkable foundation of this living legend. 

    Seven Decades in Hollywood: An Interview with Tim Matheson

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2025 44:59


    Tim Matheson's Hollywood career spans nearly seven decades.  From working alongside Lucille Ball and Henry Fonda in 1968's Yours, Mine and Ours, to his iconic role in the classic 1978 comedy Animal House, to the record-breaking hit Netflix series, Virgin River, Tim Matheson has done it all.  Listen as Shannon and Tim discuss Tim's new book, Damn Glad to Meet You: My Seven Decades in the Hollywood Trenches, and what inspired Tim to write his book: the Classic Hollywood legends he was privileged to work with, and what he learned from them.

    America's Tap Treasure: An Interview with Reggio “The Hoofer” McLaughlin

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2025 39:26


    Reggio “The Hoofer” McLaughlin is a master tap dancer, teacher, and historian.  Reggio began his career as a musician, playing bass guitar for The Lost Generation and opening for such artists as Gladys Knight and the Pips and James Brown.  Reggio made the successful transition from musician to tap dancer.  He performs and teaches tap around the world, and has worked with countless tap legends, including Gregory Hines, Savion Glover, The Nicholas Brothers, Jimmy Slyde, and his mentor Ernest “Brownie” Brown.  Reggio's immense contributions to preserving the art and tradition of tap have been richly recognized: In 2021, Reggio received the National Medal of Honor from the United States' National Endowment of the Arts.  Listen as Reggio and Shannon discuss Reggio's inspiring career, and what it's like to be named a National Living Treasure.

    Cool Hand Luke's Natural Born World-Shaker: An Interview with Joy Harmon

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2024 21:37


    Joy Harmon is a baker, actress, author, mother, and grandmother.  From her many television and film roles, you undoubtedly recognize Joy best as the beautiful blue-eyed blonde from the iconic car wash scene in the 1967 Paul Newman classic, Cool Hand Luke.  Joy left her acting career behind in 1973 to focus on raising her family, and along the way began a successful bakery, Aunt Joy's Cakes, that serves individuals, cafes, and Hollywood studios.  Listen to be inspired by the faith, strength, and sweetness that, to quote the celebrated line from Cool Hand Luke, make Joy Harmon “a natural born world-shaker.”

    Hollywood Royalty: An Interview with Cissy Wellman

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2024 49:00


    Cissy Wellman is an actress, director, dancer, and author.  She is the daughter of the revered Classic Hollywood director, William Wellman, who directed such films as Wings (1927) and the original A Star is Born (1937).  Cissy had the rare opportunity to grow up among the biggest names from the Golden Age, and formed personal relationships with such legends as director Howard Hawks and John Wayne.  Cissy's own career includes television roles on Charlie's Angels, The Waltons, and Hart to Hart.  Her film credits include roles in Clint Eastwood's The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976), Made Men (1999), and, most recently, in the 2024 film, Little Death, opposite David Schwimmer.  Listen as Cissy shares behind the scenes stories from her career, invaluable insights on the Classic Hollywood legends she knew, and what makes the Golden Age exceptional.

    Old Yeller to Spider Baby: An Interview with Beverly Washburn

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2024 54:50


    You probably know Beverly Washburn best as Lizabeth Searcy in the 1957 Disney classic, Old Yeller, or from the 1967 horror cult classic, Spider Baby, but Beverly's film and television credits boast countless memorable performances.  This Emmy nominated actress has worked with such Classic Hollywood legends as Bing Crosby, Jimmy Stewart, Alan Ladd, Loretta Young, Lon Chaney, Jr., Jack Benny, Lou Costello, Barbara Stanwyck, and Frank Capra.  Beverly's rare ability to cry on cue naturally was put to good use from the start of her career, and contributed to her reputation as one of the best kid actors of her generation.  Listen for all about Beverly's remarkable career, and be inspired by her boundless kindness and gratitude.

    Let's Dance: An Interview with Rusty Frank

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2024 51:46


    Rusty Frank is a Lindy Hop (swing) dancer, tap dancer, choreographer, producer, teacher, and dance preservationist.  She is the author of the critically acclaimed book, TAP! The Greatest Tap Dance Stars and Their Stories, for which Rusty interviewed such tap luminaries as Ann Miller, Donald O'Connor, Shirley Temple, Gene Nelson, and The Nicholas Brothers.  Join Shannon and Rusty as they discuss Rusty's book, dance career, the tap legends she got to know personally, and her remarkable recovery from a near-fatal accident.

    Beyond The Dr. Pepper Girl: An Interview with Donna Loren

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2024 47:32


    Donna Loren was the quintessential “It” girl of the 1960's who caught America's eye as the one and only Dr. Pepper Girl.  But Donna held America's interest with her impossibly beautiful singing voice.  From the Mickey Mouse Club to her roles in the beloved Beach Party films, TV's Batman, The Monkees, and as a cast member of America's first live rock n' roll television show, Shindig, Donna Loren proved herself to be one of the most talented singers of her generation.  Listen as Donna shares all about her fascinating life and career.

    Radiant Beauty: An Interview with Marta Kristen

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2024 63:17


    Blonde and beautiful, you probably know Marta Kristen best as Judy Robinson in the beloved sci-fi classic television show, Lost in Space (1965-1968).  From her early years hiding from Nazis in an underground orphanage in Norway, to her versatile performances on the stage and screen, to her nearly 40-year marriage, and a children's book Marta is currently writing and illustrating herself, the beauty of Marta Kristen literally radiates from within.  Listen to Shannon's interview with Marta to be inspired by her extraordinary life.

    The Remarkable Gene Kelly: An Interview with Patricia Ward Kelly

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2024 56:30


    Shannon joins Gene Kelly's widow, film historian Patricia Ward Kelly, in the Gene Kelly Archives for this special interview.  As Gene's wife and official biographer, Patricia brings a unique perspective to her work: No one knows Gene like Patricia, and she is the definitive source on all things relating to her legendary husband.  Listen as Patricia shares about her life with Gene, debunks several Singin' in the Rain (1952) myths, and highlights Gene's rich creative legacy in front of, and behind, the camera.

    A Force of Nature: An Interview with Paul Petersen

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 28, 2024 42:35


    You probably know Paul Petersen best as Donna Reed's son on The Donna Reed Show, but Paul's show business career began as one of the original sixteen Mouseketeers. In addition to working with Hollywood Legends like Cary Grant and Sophia Loren, Paul also enjoyed a successful music career with Motown. But Paul is most proud of his work to better the lives of kid actors. Listen as Paul shares about his Hollywood career and inspiring work with his foundation, A Minor Consideration.

    Marilyn Monroe's Little Brother: An Interview with Scott Morrow

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2024 40:58


    As one of the most featured child actors of the Golden Age, Scott Morrow has more than 95 television credits and 16 feature films to his name. From Peyton Place to An Affair to Remember and The Donna Reed Show, Scott worked with the best of the best. Listen as Scott shares highlights from his remarkable career, and memories of his sweet brother-sister relationship with Marilyn Monroe.

    Hollywood and the Movies of the Fifties with Foster Hirsch

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 27, 2023 45:14


    In this interview special, Shannon welcomes back film historian Foster Hirsch to discuss his new book, Hollywood and the Movies of the Fifties. Listen to discover which mogul saved Hollywood, if the blacklist could have been avoided, and what Jimmy Stewart and Marlon Brando have in common.

    A Lucky Interview with Mimi Gibson

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2023 61:32


    In this special episode, Shannon interviews Mimi Gibson, one of the most sought-after child actresses of the 1950s and 1960s. Mimi is best known as the voice of Lucky in 101 Dalmatians (1961) and as Cary Grant's daughter in Houseboat (1958). Listen as Mimi shares her stories and experiences from working during the most exciting time in movies and television, and her post-acting work to better the lives of today's working kids in Hollywood.

    The Importance of Thank You Notes: A Lesson from Jackie Robinson

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 23, 2023 15:42


    Classic baseball history and a thank you note written by Jackie Robinson inspire this episode about the importance of giving thanks.

    Joe E. Brown: Hollywood's Nicest Guy

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2023 19:02


    Shannon offers a birthday tribute to comedian and actor Joe E. Brown, Hollywood's nicest guy

    Hud (1963), Pat Neal's Oscar, and Newman's Villain

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2023 24:38


    Paul Newman ages youthfully, Patricia Neal wins the Oscar, and Paul was not mean to Patricia. From 1963, it's Hud.

    Paul Newman Was Not Mean to Patricia Neal. Here's Why It Matters

    Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2023 11:05


    Was Paul Newman mean to Patricia Neal? Shannon's research reveals the truth and why a rumor has been accepted as fact for decades.

    The Long, Hot Summer (1958) & The Newmans

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2023 19:52


     Paul Newman Almost Fails in Hollywood, Orson Welles Hates the Method, Joanne Wins an Oscar, & the Newmans Put Their Marriage First. It's The Long, Hot Summer (1958).

    Paul Newman: Old Hollywood Class and Modern Cool

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2023 13:02


    Paul Newman goes to Yale, Sells Encyclopedias, Races Cars, Gets Better with Age, and Prefers Steak at Home.  Join Shannon for her birthday tribute to Paul Newman.

    Was Vera-Ellen Anorexic in White Christmas (1954)?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2022 24:22


    Was Vera-Ellen Anorexic in White Christmas (1954)? Here's what we know about Vera-Ellen's complicated relationship with food and body image.

    They Are Wisest: O. Henry's ”The Gift of the Magi”

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 22, 2022 19:31


    Shannon reveals the story behind the answer to yesterday's trivia question and recites one of her favorite Christmas stories: O. Henry's "The Gift of the Magi"

    Meet John Doe (1941) with Introduction by Shannon

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 21, 2022 134:10


    Shannon reveals the story behind the answer to yesterday's trivia question. The audio version of a video introduction and a film follows: Visit https://vanguardofhollywood.com/watch-meet-john-doe-1941/ to watch Shannon's introduction and stream Meet John Doe (1941) in its entirety

    It's a Wonderful Life Radio Play and What Happened to Alfalfa

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2022 66:15


    Shannon reveals the story behind the answer to yesterday's trivia question and introduces the full Lux Radio Theatre adaptation of It's a Wonderful Life.

    Week Before Christmas: Introduction and Meal Plan

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 19, 2022 5:29


    Listen to Vanguard of Hollywood daily this week for Christmas movie trivia, recipes that are delicious and budget-friendly, and some of Shannon's favorite Christmas stories.

    Bette vs. Joan: Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? 60th Anniversary

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 9, 2022 18:13


    Bette Davis Feuds with Joan Crawford, Does What No Makeup Artist Dares, and runs to the Hollywood Hills. Celebrating 60 years, it's Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?

    Charade (1963) with Introduction by Shannon

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2022 119:19


    This episode is the audio from a video introduction and a film.  Visit VanguardOfHollywood.com to watch Shannon's introduction and stream Charade (1963) in its entirety.   https://vanguardofhollywood.com/watch-charade-1963/

    Jimmy Stewart Was Not Racist. Here's Why.

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2022 16:58


    A Rumor Casts a Shadow on the Legacy of Jimmy Stewart. Was Jimmy Stewart Racist? The Answer is No. Here's Why.

    Platinum Perfection: A Lana Turner Birthday Tribute

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 8, 2022 28:10


    Lana Turner is the Definition of Movie Star, Loves Hot Sauce and Fashion, Goes Through Seven Husbands, is Saved by Her Daughter, & Can Make Anyone Laugh. It's Shannon's Birthday Tribute to Lana Turner.

    Elegance and Eloquence: A Sidney Poitier Tribute

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 11, 2022 13:46


    Sidney Poitier Wins Best Actor, Is the Highest Paid Star in Hollywood, Goes Vegetarian, and Continues to Inspire with His Amazing Life Story. Join Shannon as she pays tribute to Sidney Poitier.

    Inspiration from Jimmy Stewart, Frank Capra, & It's a Wonderful Life

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2021 14:51


    In this special episode, Vanguard of Hollywood ventures into video with the inspiring story of Jimmy Stewart and It's a Wonderful Life (1946).

    Otto Preminger: The Man Who Would Be King - Interview With Foster Hirsch

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2021 59:52


    Otto Preminger Goes Independent, Takes Down the Production Code Administration, Fights Censorship, & Doesn't Hold Back His Temper.  Film historian Foster Hirsch joins Shannon for a discussion of his gripping book, Otto Preminger: The Man Who Would Be King.

    All Heart: Doris Day & Why She Matters

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2021 54:52


    Doris Day Exudes Confidence, Heckles an Umpire, Wants to Be a Housewife, Talks to Me on the Phone, & Can Literally Do it All. Shannon introduces the latest Star Spotlight, Doris Day.

    Inside Marilyn Monroe's Closet: The Classic Hollywood Collection of Greg Schreiner

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2021 41:04


    Greg Schreiner owns one of the largest private collections of Classic Hollywood costumes, including Marilyn Monroe's screen worn and publicity gowns. In this interview special of Vanguard of Hollywood, Shannon and Greg discuss the priceless costumes in Greg's collection that made Marilyn Monroe and the stars of Classic Hollywood great.

    Dean Martin: A Few Things You Didn't Know | Special Minisode

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2021 7:03


    Dean Martin is a Man of Simple Snacks, Has Frank Sinatra's Back, Shows His Gratitude, and is Home for Dinner Every Night. This is Shannon's Minisode Special on Dean Martin.

    The Costellos: Film's First Family with Terry Chester Shulman

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2021 50:17


    In this special episode, Shannon interviews Terry Chester Shulman, author of Film's First Family: The Untold Story of the Costellos. The groundbreaking film innovations of Maurice Costello and the fascinating lives of his daughters, Dolores and Helene, are discussed.

    Guess Who's Coming to Dinner (1967): A Revolutionary Ride with Tracy, Hepburn, and Sidney Poitier

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2021 52:32


    Katharine Hepburn MacGyvers a Sports Car, Ranks Higher than the Pope, Takes Care of Spencer Tracy, and Sidney Poitier is the Classiest Man Alive.  Shannon wraps up her Star Spotlight on Katharine Hepburn with 1967's Guess Who's Coming to Dinner.

    A Little Bit of Jack Lemmon, Marilyn Monroe, and Jane Russell | Special Minisode

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2021 8:50


    Jack Lemmon's Got Two Words for You, Marilyn Monroe and Betty Grable are BFF's, and Jane Russell Puts Out One Hundred Fleeces.  It's the 50th Episode Special of Vanguard of Hollywood.

    A Great Adventure: Katharine Hepburn & The African Queen

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2021 47:32


    Katharine Hepburn Beats the Jungle with Bogie & Bacall, Steals the Show in Her Pants, Tackles Shakespeare, and Proves that Middle-Aged Actresses Rock. From 1951, it’s The African Queen.

    Cutting Her Down to Size? Katharine Hepburn & Woman of the Year

    Play Episode Listen Later May 3, 2021 46:55


    Katharine Hepburn Meets Spencer Tracy, Pulls a Fast One on MGM, Wears Her Power Platforms, and Proves She’s Here to Stay. From 1942, it’s Woman of the Year.

    Isn't She Yar: Katharine Hepburn & The Philadelphia Story Comeback

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 19, 2021 42:19


    Katharine Hepburn Survives an Actual Hurricane, Golfs with Howard Hughes, Flies with Jimmy Stewart, and Pulls Off the Most Epic Comeback in Hollywood History.  From 1940, it’s The Philadelphia Story.

    They Say She's a Has-Been: Katharine Hepburn, Cary Grant & Bringing Up Baby (1938)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2021 44:29


    Katharine Hepburn Wrangles a Leopard, Locksteps with Cary Grant, Learns the Circus Grip, And Sets Out to Prove She Isn’t a Has-Been.  From 1938, it's Bringing Up Baby.

    Katharine Hepburn: A Fierce Hollywood Original

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2021 36:20


    Katharine Hepburn Paddles Her Own Canoe, Proves Her Resilience in Hollywood, Is as Elegant as Audrey and Grace, and May Just Walk Around the Set in Her Underpants.  Shannon introduces the latest Star Spotlight, Katharine Hepburn.

    John Garfield, HUAC, and He Ran All the Way (1951)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2021 38:19


    Shelley Winters Avoids Sequined Harem Pants and John Garfield Refuses to Rat on His Friends to HUAC. From 1951, it’s He Ran All the Way.

    Lana Turner, John Garfield, and The Postman Always Rings Twice (1946)

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 18, 2021 41:45


    Lana Turner Rocks a Turban and Hot Pants, John Garfield is the First Major Star to Entertain the Troops, Bette Davis Says YES, and Lana and Julie Really Are Just Friends. From 1946, it's The Postman Always Rings Twice.

    John Garfield: Hollywood's First Rebel

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 5, 2021 34:57


    John Garfield is a Fighter, Inspires Hollywood’s Future Rebels, Asks for His Man-Maker, and Just May Give You $200.  Shannon introduces Star Spotlight John Garfield.

    Rear Window (1954), Jimmy Stewart, Hitchcock, and Grace Kelly

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 20, 2021 43:22


    Alfred Hitchcock is the Master of Suspense, Grace Kelly Isn’t Cold, and Jimmy Stewart Stands a True Hero in Every Sense of the Word. From 1954, it’s Rear Window.

    Winchester '73, A New Jimmy Stewart, and Gloria

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2021 30:01


    Jimmy Stewart Becomes a Western Star, Talks with Horses, Finds True Love, and Makes a Million Dollars. From 1950, it's Winchester '73.

    It's a Wonderful Life (1946) & Jimmy Stewart Bomber Pilot

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2020 37:55


    Jimmy Stewart Is a Bomber Pilot and the Highest Ranking Star in the Military, Lives in Henry Fonda’s Playhouse, and If You Ever Make a Film About An Angel Getting Wings, He’s Your Guy.  From 1946, It’s a Wonderful Life.

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