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Classic Conversations

Classic Conversations

Jeff Dwoskin

Take a deep dive into pop nostalgia with us! Pop culture influencers, TV stars, film actors, comedians, and musicians share inspirational stories about the road to success. Insightful conversations that are part comedy/part drama and are always entertaining! With your host, comedian, Jeff Dwoskin.

347 - Jay Johnson's Adventures on Soap and Broadway
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  • 347 - Jay Johnson's Adventures on Soap and Broadway

    Jay Johnson, the master ventriloquist and beloved actor from Soap, shares an in-depth look into his extraordinary career, from his early passion for ventriloquism sparked by a childhood Nestlé Quick pamphlet to his Tony Award-winning Broadway show, The Two and Only!. He recounts his time on Soap, discussing the challenges and triumphs of bringing Chuck and Bob Campbell to life, and how ventriloquism impacted his battle with dyslexia. Jay also reveals hilarious behind-the-scenes anecdotes, including the unique experiences of working with a top-tier ensemble cast and the unexpected challenges of sound recording for a ventriloquist act. Reflecting on his bond with Harry Anderson, Jay opens up about the joys and heartbreaks of their friendship, along with stories of wild adventures at the Playboy Mansion and beyond.

    Episode Highlights:

    Early Days and Inspiration: Jay recounts how a ventriloquism guide from a Nestlé Quick box ignited his passion and shaped his future career. Life-Changing Role on Soap: He reveals the audition process for Soap, why the character Chuck was so pivotal, and how unexpected circumstances extended his role on the show. Hilarious Set Stories: From dealing with sound engineers who thought Bob was real to managing prop-related mishaps, Jay shares his most unforgettable moments on set. Conquering Dyslexia with Comedy: Jay talks about how ventriloquism provided a creative outlet that helped him navigate dyslexia and allowed him to excel in a unique way. Memories of Harry Anderson: Jay reflects on his deep friendship with the late magician and actor, recalling heartfelt and humorous moments they shared over the years. Creating a Broadway Sensation: Learn how The Two and Only! came to life, the serendipitous way the show’s structure developed, and the thrilling moment he won a Tony Award.

     

    You're going to love my conversation with Jay Johnson

    IMDB Two and Only  Jay's website Facebook Watch Two and Only! on Amazon

    Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host):

    Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Join my mailing list Subscribe to my Youtube channel (watch Crossing the Streams!) Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show

    Ways to support the show:

    Buy me a coffee (support the show) TeePublic Store: Classic Conversations merch and more! Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.

     

    Mon, 18 Nov 2024 - 51min
  • 346 - Marla Pennington's Journey from SOAP to Small Wonder

      Marla Pennington, known for her roles on SOAP and Small Wonder, shares her fascinating journey from her family's mattress business to Hollywood stardom. She reflects on her breakout in acting, the dramatic and comedic nuances of working with icons like Richard Mulligan, and the joy of sitcom performances. Marla offers heartwarming anecdotes about SOAP, including hilarious behind-the-scenes moments and how the show’s humor holds up over time. She also dives into the unforgettable experience of filming Small Wonder, including tales of syndication success and the show's lasting fan legacy. The episode concludes with stories of legendary Hollywood dinner parties, her transition from acting, and a spicy Hot Ones experience with her family.

    Episode Highlights:

    From Mattresses to Hollywood: How Marla's escape from a future in her family's mattress business led to discovering her passion for drama in high school. The Spirit of SOAP: Working alongside serious comedic actors, creating unforgettable scenes like the famous pasta face-plant, and the supportive, theater-like set atmosphere. Small Wonder Memories: Landing the role of Joan Lawson, meeting future friends on set, and the unique challenges of acting alongside Vicki the robot. Guest Stars and Auditions: Auditioning for Charlie's Angels in front of Jaclyn Smith, meeting Hollywood legends, and the thrill and heartbreak of almost securing big roles. Life Beyond Acting: Hosting legendary Sunday dinners with comedic legends, bonding over laughter, and participating in a memorable Hot Ones challenge with her son.

    You're going to love my conversation with Marla Pennington

    IMDB Instagram

    Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host):

    Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Join my mailing list Subscribe to my Youtube channel (watch Crossing the Streams!) Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show

    Ways to support the show:

    Buy me a coffee (support the show) TeePublic Store: Classic Conversations merch and more! Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.
    Mon, 11 Nov 2024 - 49min
  • 345 - Running in Slow Motion with Baywatch's Nicole Eggert

     

    Nicole Eggert, star of Baywatch, Charles in Charge, and Who's the Boss, takes a trip down memory lane, sharing stories from her iconic career. From her early days as Little Miss Universe to becoming a global sensation on Baywatch, Nicole reflects on the ups and downs of fame. She dives into the making of her documentary After Baywatch, revealing what it was like working with David Hasselhoff and her thoughts on Pamela Anderson's absence. Nicole also opens up about her personal life, including her health challenges and the importance of self-advocacy. Packed with humor and candid moments, her stories give a glimpse into Hollywood’s golden days and beyond.

    Episode Highlights:

    Nicole reflects on her unexpected journey into acting after winning Little Miss Universe. Behind-the-scenes stories from Baywatch, including working with David Hasselhoff and missing out on a spin-off series. Her role as a producer on the After Baywatch documentary and what it was like trying to get Pamela Anderson involved. Fun moments from Who's the Boss?, Charles in Charge, and working alongside stars like Alyssa Milano and Tony Danza. Candid thoughts on body image issues faced by the cast of Baywatch—both women and men. Nicole shares her personal health battles, including a cancer diagnosis, and the importance of regular self-exams. Recalling her time working with the "Coreys" and her engagement to Corey Haim.

     

    You're going to love my conversation with Nicole Eggert

    IMDB Instagram Nicole's Podcast TikTok Twitter

    Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host):

    Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Join my mailing list Subscribe to my Youtube channel (watch Crossing the Streams!) Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show

    Ways to support the show:

    Buy me a coffee (support the show) TeePublic Store: Classic Conversations merch and more! Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.

     

    Mon, 04 Nov 2024 - 49min
  • 344 - Happy Days at The Office and Matlock with Linda Purl

    Linda Purl takes listeners on a fascinating journey through her career in both acting and singing. From her childhood in Japan, where she trained at the prestigious Toho Gyno Academy, to becoming a Hollywood star, Linda reflects on the experiences that shaped her path. She shares stories about her time on iconic shows like Happy Days, Matlock, and The Office, along with behind-the-scenes moments with Hollywood legends such as Henry Winkler and Andy Griffith. Linda also dives into her passion for live music, explaining how performing on stage has been a constant source of joy throughout her life.

    Episode Highlights:

    Growing up in Japan and training at the prestigious Toho Gyno Academy. Working with legends like Cloris Leachman and Andy Griffith. The story behind her role as Fonzie's fiancée on Happy Days and the fan reactions. Stories from her time on Matlock and the The Office. How music has played a transformative role in her life and career.

     

    You're going to love my conversation with Linda Purl

    IMDB Linda's website Instagram YouTube

    Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host):

    Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Join my mailing list Subscribe to my Youtube channel (watch Crossing the Streams!) Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show

    Ways to support the show:

    Buy me a coffee (support the show) TeePublic Store: Classic Conversations merch and more! Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.

     

    Mon, 28 Oct 2024 - 52min
  • 343 - Motown, Love and Legacy with Mickey and Michelle Stevenson

    Motown legend Mickey Stevenson and his wife, Michelle, share personal stories from their careers in music and their creative partnership. Mickey reflects on his groundbreaking work at Motown, including discovering Stevie Wonder and shaping Marvin Gaye’s career. Michelle discusses her vocal debut on their latest project, "Put Kamala in the White House," and how the song became a reflection of their shared passion for music and social change. Together, they offer a glimpse into their journey from collaboration to marriage and their current creative ventures.

     

    Episode Highlights:

    Mickey Stevenson’s role in creating the Motown sound and assembling the Funk Brothers Discovering Stevie Wonder and helping Marvin Gaye embrace his soulful voice Michelle’s journey to singing professionally and their collaboration on "Put Kamala in the White House" How Motown music broke racial barriers and united people during the Civil Rights era Mickey and Michelle’s shared passion for music and spiritual connection in both life and work

     

    You're going to love my conversation with Mickey and Michelle Stevenson

    Mickey's book: Motown's First A & R Man Presents The A & R Man Instagram Website Facebook Watch/listen: Put Kamala in the White House

    Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host):

    Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Join my mailing list Subscribe to my Youtube channel (watch Crossing the Streams!) Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show

     

    Ways to support the show:

    Buy me a coffee (support the show) TeePublic Store: Classic Conversations merch and more! Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.

     

    Mon, 21 Oct 2024 - 46min
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