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Celebrity Interviews
Neil Haley
738 episodes
1 day ago
Celebrity Interviews is the number 2 Celebrity Podcast in The World and has over 5 million listeners a week. The Neil Haley Show is syndicated on 150+ stations. Here are some of the stations and markets the show is being played on: Prestonsburg, KY - 1310 AM Tampa Bay Area: 92.1 FM Las Vegas, NV: 1520 AM / 99.5 FM Macon, GA: 87.9 FM Lancaster, PA: AM 1640 / FM 102.1 Boulder, CO: 96.3 FM Milwaukee, WI: 90.3 FM Pittsburgh, PA: 94.7 FM Long Beach, CA: 87.5 FM The Villages, FL: 97.7 FM Colorado Springs, CO: 95.4 FM Jacksonville, FL: 90.3 FM Washington D.C.: 96.7 FM Rock Hill, SC: 89.5 FM
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All content for Celebrity Interviews is the property of Neil Haley and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Celebrity Interviews is the number 2 Celebrity Podcast in The World and has over 5 million listeners a week. The Neil Haley Show is syndicated on 150+ stations. Here are some of the stations and markets the show is being played on: Prestonsburg, KY - 1310 AM Tampa Bay Area: 92.1 FM Las Vegas, NV: 1520 AM / 99.5 FM Macon, GA: 87.9 FM Lancaster, PA: AM 1640 / FM 102.1 Boulder, CO: 96.3 FM Milwaukee, WI: 90.3 FM Pittsburgh, PA: 94.7 FM Long Beach, CA: 87.5 FM The Villages, FL: 97.7 FM Colorado Springs, CO: 95.4 FM Jacksonville, FL: 90.3 FM Washington D.C.: 96.7 FM Rock Hill, SC: 89.5 FM
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Episodes (20/738)
Celebrity Interviews
Claressa Shields: Boxing Champion Takes On The Titan Games

Undisputed boxing champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist Claressa Shields joins host Neil Haley to discuss her thrilling appearance on NBC's "The Titan Games" hosted by Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. Shields, who was named one of Sports Illustrated's 50 fittest athletes in 2020, explains her remarkable boxing credentials: three-division world champion, undisputed nine-time world champion, all within just ten fights, plus two Olympic gold medals earned since age 17. She emphasizes that while she's been dominant in boxing since her teenage years, stepping onto "The Titan Games" obstacle course pushed her completely outside her comfort zone and tested her in ways that punching and defense never have.

Shields reveals the fascinating dynamic of the show, where professional athletes like herself competed against highly accomplished everyday people—doctors who work out intensely, nurses who are also former Olympians, and other exceptional individuals who may not be household names but possess incredible athletic abilities. She shares humorous behind-the-scenes stories about the professional athletes banding together as a team, creating makeshift training equipment out of wood and water bottles to practice their form before competing. Shields also opens up about her training philosophy, surprising many by revealing she doesn't lift heavy weights and instead focuses on cardio, running six to eight miles regularly, and maintaining balance and hand speed for boxing. She discusses the emotional experience of being challenged by obstacles rather than opponents, and emphasizes one cardinal rule: you don't say no to The Rock. Shields encourages fans to follow her journey on social media at @claressashields and tune in to see how she and fellow professional athletes like Victor Cruz, Tyron Woodley, Joe Thomas, Hannah Teter, and Jesse Graff handle the intense Titan challenges when the show airs May 25th on NBC.

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2 days ago
10 minutes 56 seconds

Celebrity Interviews
Charlie Ward: The Only Heisman Winner to Play in the NBA

In this inspiring episode co-hosted by Neil Haley and Dr. Christopher Hall, Heisman Trophy winner and former NBA player Charlie Ward shares his extraordinary journey as the only athlete ever to win college football's most prestigious award and go on to play professional basketball. Ward reflects on his upbringing in the small town of Thomasville, Georgia, where he learned essential values of integrity, accountability, teamwork, and commitment from his parents, coaches, and close-knit community. He describes the unique experience of competing hard against friends who attended rival schools, then remaining close off the field, and credits these early experiences with shaping his character and competitive spirit.

Ward reveals the surprising origin of his dual-sport career at Florida State University, explaining that he was recruited solely for football but asked Coach Bobby Bowden if he could also play basketball. After proving himself in intramural games and summer leagues, teammates advocated for him to join the basketball team, and Coach Bowden made the unprecedented decision to allow Ward to practice with the basketball team full-time starting in October of his sophomore year. Ward discusses his decade-long NBA career with coaches like Pat Riley, Jeff Van Gundy, and Greg Popovich, and how a knee injury ended his playing days but opened doors to coaching through relationships he'd built by being a good teammate. Now coaching high school basketball in Tallahassee, hosting an ACC sports podcast, and actively involved with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Ward shares wisdom about handling adversity, maintaining faith as a foundation, and preparing yourself so that when opportunities arise, you're ready to walk through the door. He encourages listeners to check out his autobiography "The Athlete" for the complete story of challenges, setbacks, and triumphs beyond the accolades.

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2 days ago
40 minutes 44 seconds

Celebrity Interviews
Atticus Shaffer: Eight Seasons of Growing Up as Brick Heck

Actor Atticus Shaffer joins host Neil Haley to celebrate the eighth season premiere of ABC's beloved sitcom "The Middle," where he plays the uniquely endearing character Brick Heck. Shaffer reveals the remarkable journey of growing up on television, having been part of the show since age 8 when the original pilot was filmed, and now at 18 years old, he's experiencing his character's transition into high school. He discusses how the writers have crafted compelling linear storylines that span multiple episodes this season, allowing Brick to mature and face new challenges as he tries to reinvent himself and fit in with a "clean slate" approach to high school life.

Shaffer expresses deep gratitude for being on a show that promotes positive values and provides genuine role models for young viewers. He shares heartwarming stories about fans—both kids and adults—who tell him they look up to Brick because of his uniqueness and the way he handles situations by marching to the beat of his own drummer. The young actor also recounts the exciting experience of filming promotional spots with "The Goldbergs" cast, praising their kindness and down-to-earth nature in an industry where egos can often take over. Shaffer celebrates the show's move to Tuesday nights at 8 p.m. Eastern, explaining that ABC and Warner Brothers trust "The Middle" enough to anchor an entire new comedy block, helping newer shows succeed while honoring the veteran series that has become a fixture in American homes for nearly eight years.

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2 days ago
9 minutes 21 seconds

Celebrity Interviews
Bill Bellamy: MTV Icon Turned Romantic Comedy Star

Host Neil Haley welcomes celebrity comedian and actor Bill Bellamy to discuss his role in the romantic comedy "The Bounce Back" and reflect on his incredible journey from MTV VJ to Hollywood star. Bellamy credits MTV as the launching pad for his career, placing him at the center of pop culture during its explosive era when he interviewed music legends like Madonna, Janet Jackson, Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, and Boyz II Men. He explains how that exposure and the connections he made during those formative years helped propel his acting career, with audiences already loving him from his VJ work and making the transition to movies seamless.

In "The Bounce Back," Bellamy plays Terry Jackson, the manager and agent to a relationship guru (played by Shemar Moore) who ironically has no relationship of his own. Bellamy promises audiences "18 laughs per second" when he's on screen and describes the film as perfect holiday entertainment that explores themes of love, relationships, and finding genuine connection when you least expect it. He emphasizes the importance of being the comedic relief in films while maintaining strong values and positive role models, expressing gratitude for being able to make people laugh during the holidays. Bellamy also reveals that one of the show's creators, Eileen Heisler, personally pitched and wrote the clever promotional spots featuring crossovers with other ABC shows.

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2 days ago
5 minutes 58 seconds

Celebrity Interviews
Jo Koy: From Tacoma Comedy Clubs to Netflix Stardom

Join host Neil Haley for an emotional and inspiring conversation with comedian Jo Koy as he celebrates the release of his first Netflix special, "Live from Seattle." Koy opens up about the deeply personal journey that led to this career-defining moment, including the tearful phone call he received the day before Thanksgiving confirming Netflix had given him the green light. He describes staying awake until 1:01 a.m. on release night to watch his special premiere, marking the first time he's watched one of his own performances because of all the "blood, sweat, and tears" he poured into the project.

Koy discusses why Netflix represents such a game-changing platform compared to his previous two specials on other networks, emphasizing how the content lives forever on Netflix's library shelf rather than being a one-night-only event. He reflects on his roots in Tacoma, Washington, where he fell in love with stand-up comedy watching legends like Eddie Murphy, Robin Williams, Whoopi Goldberg, and Bill Cosby. Koy explains his natural gravitation toward family-style comedy, sharing stories about his mother, his son, and his own childhood experiences. He also addresses the evolving entertainment landscape, noting how comedians no longer need to wait for network deals but can produce their own content and bring it to platforms like Netflix for support and massive exposure.

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2 days ago
8 minutes 29 seconds

Celebrity Interviews
Tisha Campbell-Martin: Four Decades of Comedy, Community, and Dr. Ken

Tisha Campbell-Martin reflects on her remarkable four-decade career in entertainment, from her early days as a child actor through iconic roles in House Party, the Martin show, My Wife and Kids, and currently ABC's Dr. Ken. Campbell-Martin expresses genuine gratitude and humility about her longevity in an industry where the average acting career lasts only five years, crediting her success to a collaborative spirit and team-first mentality. She praises Ken Jeong's leadership on Dr. Ken, noting how his background as a real doctor influences his caring approach to cast and crew, and reveals that an upcoming episode will showcase her original passion—singing—as she performs with C+C Music Factory, bringing her career full circle to her roots as a singer before she became an actress.

The conversation explores Campbell-Martin's philosophy about the entertainment industry and why she considers herself a "comedic actress" rather than a comedian, explaining that she respects stand-up comedy too much to claim that title without earning it. She emphasizes the importance of making fellow performers shine rather than seeking individual glory, a lesson learned from her theater background where entire communities work together to create successful productions. Campbell-Martin discusses the enduring value of family sitcoms that allow audiences to forget their problems while still feeling good afterward, contrasting them with some reality shows that can leave viewers feeling worse. Her insights reveal a generous, team-oriented performer who understands that sustained success comes from lifting others up, making this a masterclass in professionalism, longevity, and the collaborative nature of great television comedy.

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3 days ago
10 minutes 7 seconds

Celebrity Interviews
Mel Brooks: Breaking Barriers, Making History, and the Power of Comedy

Legendary comedian and filmmaker Mel Brooks joins the show to discuss his son Nicholas Brooks's new film "Sam," but the conversation quickly becomes a masterclass in comedy history and social commentary. Brooks shares fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from his iconic career, revealing that Warner Brothers executives initially considered "Blazing Saddles" too controversial to release, with one executive claiming it would "soil the name of Warner Brothers." The film opened in just three theaters in February but became such a phenomenon that by the July 4th weekend, it was playing in 850 theaters and became a "riotous hit." Brooks explains his creative process of parodying genres he loves, from Westerns to science fiction, and shares a delightful story about sending the "Spaceballs" script to George Lucas, who laughed so hard he spit coffee all over it but requested only one prohibition: no action figures be sold.

Beyond the entertaining anecdotes, Brooks delivers a powerful message about comedy's role in social change. He identifies "Blazing Saddles" as his greatest accomplishment because it broke down racial barriers and challenged audiences to confront uncomfortable truths. His philosophy is simple but profound: "If you can make them laugh, you can make them think." Brooks argues that comedy succeeds where serious preaching fails because laughter opens minds and hearts in ways that soapbox ranting cannot. He also discusses his talented children, including son Max Brooks who wrote "World War Z" and "The Zombie Survival Guide," and announces his upcoming musical adaptation of "Young Frankenstein" set to open in London. This conversation captures the wisdom, humor, and social consciousness of one of entertainment's most influential voices, demonstrating why Brooks's work remains relevant decades after its creation.

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3 days ago
17 minutes 5 seconds

Celebrity Interviews
Catherine Curtin: Art, PTSD, and the Power of Storytelling in Camera Obscura

Catherine Curtin, known for her powerful performances in Orange is the New Black and Stranger Things, engages in a thought-provoking discussion about her psychological thriller "Camera Obscura" and the essential role of art in society. Curtin passionately argues that theater represents the highest form of artistic expression and celebrates how platforms like Netflix are democratizing storytelling, allowing diverse voices and challenging ideas to reach audiences worldwide. She emphasizes that art is not a luxury but a necessity—food for the soul that nourishes people with ideas, emotions, empathy, and meaning. The conversation explores how horror and thriller genres create "experiential" rather than passive viewing, forcing audiences to athletically engage with difficult subjects in ways that raise empathy and understanding.

The heart of the discussion focuses on PTSD and how "Camera Obscura" tackles this often-misunderstood condition through the lens of a war photographer whose trauma manifests through his camera. Curtin makes the crucial point that PTSD isn't limited to combat veterans—it can affect a teenager being cyberbullied, a survivor of abuse, or anyone who witnesses tragedy, such as someone involved in a fatal car accident caused by mechanical failure. She praises the film for exploring the moral ambiguity faced by whistleblowers who must decide whether to expose wrongdoing despite the personal consequences. Drawing parallels to contemporary figures like James Comey and Edward Snowden, Curtin argues that society is navigating new moral dilemmas about transparency, accountability, and the courage required to speak truth to power. This compelling conversation demonstrates how genre filmmaking can illuminate important social issues while entertaining audiences.

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3 days ago
12 minutes 42 seconds

Celebrity Interviews
Stephen Tobolowsky: My Adventures with God - A Life of Faith, Miracles, and Hollywood

Actor and author Stephen Tobolowsky, beloved for his roles in Groundhog Day, The Goldbergs, and Silicon Valley, delivers a profound and surprisingly spiritual conversation about his new book "My Adventures with God." Tobolowsky shares the harrowing story of breaking his neck while horseback riding on an active volcano in Iceland in 2008, an accident his doctor called "fatal" while speaking to his living patient. During his months-long recovery in a hard brace, Tobolowsky contemplated what he would want his two sons to know if he had actually died on that mountain, leading him to write true stories from his life. What emerged was not just a memoir, but a spiritual journey structured around the five books of the Old Testament, tracing how one's relationship with God evolves through different life stages.

Throughout the interview, Tobolowsky offers remarkable insights drawn from biblical stories and personal experience, including his philosophy that "everything is a doorway and everything is a prison"—a concept he derives from the Book of Exodus. He discusses experiencing what he genuinely believes was a miracle during his recovery, something that defied scientific explanation and fundamentally changed his worldview. Tobolowsky also reflects on the difference between theater and film as "holy places," shares stories from working on current projects including One Day at a Time and Silicon Valley, and reveals how his wife has saved his life three times, including during his broken neck and open heart surgery. The conversation balances profound spiritual reflection with humor and humility, as Tobolowsky acknowledges the many "amazing mistakes" he's made while also celebrating the good choices that have sustained his decades-long career.

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3 days ago
47 minutes 21 seconds

Celebrity Interviews
Cody Walker: Honoring Paul Walker's Legacy Through Disaster Relief

Cody Walker, brother of the late Fast and Furious star Paul Walker, shares an intimate and emotional conversation about growing up in a family of actors, his own career as a paramedic, and the devastating moment he learned of his brother's tragic death. In this heartfelt interview, Cody reveals he had spoken with Paul for two hours just before the fatal accident, making the loss even more unbearable. Despite working as a paramedic and being trained to handle emergencies, nothing could have prepared him for that phone call. He opens up about the unique challenge of being so far from home when tragedy struck and the long journey of grief that followed.

Rather than letting grief consume him, Cody found purpose in continuing his brother's humanitarian work through Reach Out Worldwide, the disaster relief organization Paul founded to respond to natural disasters globally. Drawing on his experience as a paramedic, Cody explains how he felt compelled to honor his brother's vision by bringing his medical skills to communities devastated by catastrophe. He discusses the global scope of their mission and why disaster relief requires a worldwide perspective, as emergencies can strike anywhere without warning. This inspiring conversation showcases how tragedy can be transformed into meaningful action and how one person's legacy can continue to make a difference around the world.

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3 days ago
9 minutes 4 seconds

Celebrity Interviews
Sam Jones: Flash Gordon's Enduring Legacy and New Graphic Novel Adventure

Actor Sam Jones joins The Neil Haley Show to celebrate the 43-year legacy of Flash Gordon and announce his exciting new graphic novel "Sam J. Jones Saves the Galaxy," currently launching on IndieGoGo. Jones reveals why his portrayal of Flash Gordon continues to resonate with audiences across generations—because Flash is simply "just a guy" without superpowers who faces adversity with nothing but wit, athleticism, and determination. This relatability makes viewers believe they too can overcome their own challenges. He shares fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from the 1980 film, including the intense battle disc scene with Timothy Dalton that was filmed 25 feet in the air with real rotating platforms and retractable spikes, and the harrowing tree trunk scene where he genuinely didn't know if something dangerous might be lurking inside.

Jones discusses his remarkable similarities to the Flash Gordon character, from his Marine Corps background and football experience to his Southern upbringing and values of respect and service. He explains his collaboration with artists Rob and Joe Archie on the graphic novel, which maintains the family-friendly action-adventure spirit while giving the character a more serious edge. The project launched on IndieGoGo with overwhelming fan support, offering five tiers of participation including a unique "Commander" package featuring a private meal with Jones himself. He also reflects on his friendship with Stan Lee and their good-natured debate about whether someone can be a superhero without superpowers, noting that both Buck Rogers and Flash Gordon predated Marvel's superpowered heroes as the original templates for heroism. Jones shares his philosophy on life learned through his career and 31-year marriage: be an excellent listener, don't be easily offended, and always make others smile.

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4 days ago
25 minutes 29 seconds

Celebrity Interviews
Deana Martin: Honoring Dean Martin's Legacy as Fifth "Trobairitz" at New York's Historic Friars Club

Deana Martin shares the deeply emotional experience of being named a "Trobairitz"—the female troubadour—at the legendary Friars Club in New York City, where her father Dean Martin was honored as "Man of the Hour" in 1951. Wearing the heavy gold medallion engraved to her father from that historic evening, Deana joins an elite group of only five women to receive this rare title, alongside Barbra Streisand, Liza Minnelli, Dionne Warwick, and Kristin Chenoweth. She reflects on her fondest New York memories, including family dinners at Patsy's Restaurant on 57th Street with "Uncle Frank" Sinatra, and reveals that Sal Scognamillo from Patsy's is catering her special evening. The celebration features performances and roasts from Joe Piscopo, Joe Mantegna, Tony Lo Bianco, and video tributes from friends like Tony Orlando, Tony Danza, and Bob Newhart who couldn't attend in person.

Deana discusses learning the art of entertainment by watching her father perform at the Sands Hotel's Copa Room, remembering the announcer's iconic introduction: "Ladies and gentlemen, the star of our show, direct from the bar, Dean Martin." She describes how Dean looked effortlessly cool in his tuxedo with red pocket square and bow tie, making the entire audience feel like they were in his living room through his personal, honest, and funny approach. His advice to her was simple but profound: always know your lyrics, stand on your mark, always be early, and sing from your heart. Closing her Friars Club honor, Deana will perform "That's Amore," "That's Life," "Bellissima," and "Everybody Loves Somebody," with the entire evening being filmed by Creative Chaos production company for inclusion in the upcoming Dean Martin documentary that should be released later this year.

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6 days ago
9 minutes 42 seconds

Celebrity Interviews
Abby Lee Miller's Miraculous Survival: Dr. Hooman Melamed Reveals the Medical Crisis That Nearly Took Her Life

Dance Moms star Abby Lee Miller delivers shocking exclusive news about a brand-new injury that even her spine surgeon Dr. Hooman Melamed learns about for the first time during this live broadcast. Just days after successfully flying alone and walking down an airplane aisle sideways for the first time since her paralysis—a tremendous milestone in her recovery—Abby broke both her tibia and fibula in a freak pool accident while doing aquatic therapy at a hotel. The injury occurred when her leg twisted underneath her on the fourth step without even falling, requiring emergency surgery at Tampa General Hospital's level one trauma center. Dr. Melamed expresses complete shock at not being informed, explaining the unique challenges of operating on Abby's bones, which have become porous and brittle from chemotherapy damage, previously requiring cement reinforcement and large pelvic screws that are still causing her significant pain six months later.

The conversation reveals the harrowing 2018 medical crisis that left Abby paralyzed from the neck down within 24 hours, requiring Dr. Melamed to perform emergency surgery at 11 PM that lasted until 5 AM. After being released from prison and visiting seven different doctors over seven consecutive days—all of whom dismissed her symptoms—Abby's condition deteriorated so rapidly that her blood pressure plummeted to near-fatal levels. Unable to lie flat for an MRI due to excruciating pain, doctors performed an emergency CT myelogram while she sat in an awkward position, screaming, which revealed her entire spinal canal was completely blocked across 12 segments by what everyone initially thought was an infection. Upon opening her spine, Dr. Melamed discovered Burkitt lymphoma—an extremely rare and aggressive cancer typically found only in young African boys, usually fatal within eight weeks, and so unusual in Abby's case that it warranted publication as a medical case report. The cancer had wrapped around her spinal cord like a chokehold, and Abby believes it was triggered when a prison doctor abruptly took her off all diabetes and thyroid medications cold turkey two months before her collapse.

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6 days ago
38 minutes 57 seconds

Celebrity Interviews
Clint Black: From $50 Bar Gigs to Five Consecutive #1 Hits and 29-Year Marriage Wisdom

Clint Black, country music legend, opens up about his remarkable debut album that achieved something unprecedented in music history—five consecutive number-one hits across any genre. The Houston native spent a decade "eking out a living" performing in bars around Houston, Tomball, Clear Lake, Surfside, Galveston, and Spring before his overnight success, including one surreal night performing for an audience of just one—a heavily intoxicated woman who told him he "kicked her in the gut" before rummaging through her purse for what he feared might be a gun. Black shares the origin story of his hit "Killing Time," born from a conversation with songwriting partner Hayden Nicholas about how slowly the music industry wheels were turning during a drive to yet another $50 gig. He reveals that while he believed in his songs and knew he was with a strong record company (RCA), he didn't truly understand how unlikely his success was until articles explained that having the year's number one and two singles hadn't happened for a solo artist since Hank Williams 35 years prior, and five consecutive number-ones had never happened in any music genre in history.

The artist reflects on his adventurous Houston childhood, including dangerous bayou expeditions where he nearly drowned being trapped underwater by a fallen tree with a poisonous water moccasin in his face, requiring three attempts to surface before his friend Mark Hogue grabbed the snake by the tail and flung it away. Black offers profound wisdom from his 29-year marriage to actress Lisa Hartman Black, sharing Roy Rogers' advice to "never go to bed angry" and his own communication philosophy learned from studying psychology—never tell someone what their intent was, only how they made you feel, allowing them to correct misunderstandings while assuming the best of their intentions. He promotes his new album "Out of Sane" releasing June 19th with all original songs except a reinvented cover of Harry Nilsson's "Everybody's Talking," and discusses his work honoring fallen Navy SEAL Kyle Milliken through his music video "America's Still in Love with You" and efforts to drive support to the Kyle Milliken Foundation, which assists Gold Star Families and struggling military community members. Black emphasizes the privilege of meeting great Americans who sacrifice so much, encouraging fans to contribute to the foundation because "nickels and dimes add up to millions of dollars and they will change lives."

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1 week ago
37 minutes 22 seconds

Celebrity Interviews
Brad Sherwood: From Free Improv Shows to Whose Line Success and 17 Years on Tour

Brad Sherwood, beloved performer from "Whose Line Is It Anyway?", reveals his journey from performing six to seven free improv shows weekly across Los Angeles in three different groups to landing his career-defining television role. Working his way up through Second City's touring company as Ryan Stiles' understudy, Sherwood recounts the brutal five-hour audition with 50 other Los Angeles improvisers—all of whom he knew personally—that would change his life forever. He credits Stiles, who was in the main Second City company, for alerting him that "Whose Line" producers were coming to town and encouraging him to audition. Sherwood explains how the show transformed improv from what's been called "the jazz of comedy"—a basement club art form known only to cool college kids—into mainstream awareness, now taught as curriculum in high schools and elementary drama clubs nationwide. He discusses the challenge improv faced where one bad first experience could turn someone off forever, unlike standup comedy where audiences blame the individual performer rather than the entire art form.

The versatile entertainer discusses his 17-year touring partnership with Colin Mochrie, describing their dynamic as "an improv Penn and Teller," and shares his philosophy that every aspect of life is essentially improvised—from conversations that ebb and flow naturally to driving where you know your destination but must adapt moment-by-moment to avoid trucks, rabbits, and other obstacles. Sherwood reveals his approach to character creation, preferring to go with whatever the scene demands rather than relying on pre-planned "angry guy" personas, though he'll occasionally throw on a dialect (which he admits doing "very poorly") to give himself a different perspective. He demonstrates his quick-thinking abilities by engaging in an impromptu wrestling promo, channeling Chris Jericho's mic skills while promoting his "Scared Scriptless" tour (not "Sacred Scriptless" as one might mishear). Beyond improv, Sherwood describes himself as a "Renaissance guy" pursuing music composition, painting, and literary projects while seeking hosting opportunities that showcase his skillset better than playing a fireman on "Chicago Fire," with upcoming tour dates spanning the Midwest, New England, and Eastern seaboard including his May 17th show at the Mountain Arts Center in Prestonsburg, Kentucky.

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1 week ago
16 minutes 58 seconds

Celebrity Interviews
Phil Cunningham: Creating an Epic Biblical Animation 37 Years in the Making

Phil Cunningham, founder of Sunrise Animation Studios and director of the animated musical film "David," shares how a vision 37 years ago while canoeing down Africa's Zambezi River inspired an epic retelling of the biblical hero's story. Surrounded by thunderstorms, elephants, buffalo, and charging lions while reading David's story, Cunningham was struck by God's declaration that David was "a man after my own heart" and realized that telling David's story could give audiences a glimpse of God's expansive, adventurous heart. He explains why David resonates so deeply with audiences—because he's flawed like all of us, yet lives wholeheartedly and fearlessly, expressing his fears, questions, and joys openly. Rather than just retelling the familiar David and Goliath story, the film spans from young shepherd David through his battle with Goliath to his coronation as king of Judah, revealing the rich material that exists beyond the giant-slaying moment most people remember.

Cunningham describes the monumental challenge of creating what he calls an "Arc de Triomphe" of animated films—something genuinely competing with Pixar, Disney, and DreamWorks rather than just another TV movie shot for cinema. The 10-year production involved 400-500 people working across 32 countries, including veterans with 20 years at Pixar and DreamWorks. He discusses the importance of authenticity, conducting four research trips to Israel to stay true to the source material, and using music as a crucial element since David authentically wrote half the Psalms as a musician and songwriter. Cunningham reveals the casting process that led to Phil Wickham voicing adult David—finding someone who was not only a great singer but also brought genuine acting energy and embodied David's adventurous character—alongside Lauren Daigle in a supporting role. The director emphasizes his hope that the film does more than entertain, inspiring audiences to take on the giants in their own lives while championing mothers, drawing on his own mother's influence who challenged him at 14 to have adventures like the biblical heroes.

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1 week ago
12 minutes 45 seconds

Celebrity Interviews
Joan Van Ark: From Knots Landing to Life Lessons in Reinvention

Joan Van Ark takes listeners behind the scenes of her iconic 14-year run on "Knots Landing" and the serendipitous path that led her there. The accomplished actress reveals how teenage heartbreak—when high school quarterback Russell James asked another girl to prom instead of her—sparked her acting career at age 14 with a single audition line: "Violet, sir?" This rejection led to a scholarship at Yale Drama School, making her only the second actress after Julie Harris to receive this honor straight out of high school. In a full-circle moment, Julie Harris was later cast as her mother on Knots Landing, with Van Ark screaming in excitement when she learned the news. She shares the story of her proudest work—the iconic five-minute uninterrupted "face washing scene" where her character Valene literally and symbolically washed away the glitz to return to her authentic self, requiring precise timing since reapplying the makeup would take two hours.

Van Ark discusses the origins of both "Dallas" and "Knots Landing," revealing that creator David Jacobs actually wrote Knots Landing first, but CBS wanted something more glamorous for the pre-1980s era, leading to Dallas being produced first. She opens up about the challenges of adapting to post-COVID entertainment industry changes, her discomfort with the shift from glamorous 1980s aesthetics to today's natural, minimal-makeup approach, and her dreams of creating new projects with co-stars Michelle Lee and Donna Mills—possibly titled "We're Not KNOT Done Yet." Van Ark shares her compassion for former co-star Alec Baldwin during his current legal troubles, recalling how she immediately recognized his talent during his first scene. She also discusses her brief marriage to three different husbands within the Dallas/Knots Landing universe, her love of the Boston Marathon (running a 3:20 qualifying time), and her upcoming June appearances including a Dallas reunion in Palm Springs and the Hollywood Autograph Show in Burbank.

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1 week ago
28 minutes 49 seconds

Celebrity Interviews
Jim Cummings: The Voice Behind Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, and Disney Magic

Jim Cummings, the legendary voice actor behind Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, and countless beloved Disney characters, shares his remarkable journey from classroom troublemaker to animation icon. Starting his professional career in 1984 at age 30 after years as a drummer and singer in bands, Cummings reveals the emotional moment when original Tigger voice Paul Winchell told him "take care of my little buddy for me, kid" before passing away. He explains his unique character creation process, combining imperfect impressions—his Star Wars character Hondo Ohnaka came from mixing "bad Yul Brynner and bad Charles Bronson." From voicing the California Raisins to appearing throughout Disney theme parks worldwide in attractions like the Millennium Falcon ride at Galaxy's Edge, Cummings reflects on the profound impact of being told by fans "you raised me, you're the voice of my childhood."

The versatile performer discusses the consistency required to maintain iconic characters, the importance of honoring predecessors like Sterling Holloway's original Pooh, and his work with legendary songwriters the Sherman Brothers. Cummings shares behind-the-scenes stories of recording Tasmanian Devil, being in "every show on the Disney afternoon" block, and his pride in tucking the world into bed every night since 1999 as the voice of Epcot's Illuminations show. He hints at future projects he can't discuss and promotes the upcoming Mickey Mouse Mixed-Up Adventures series. With his daughters writing about what it's like having a famous dad and his presence across Disney parks from Paris to Tokyo, Cummings embodies gratitude for a career that transformed childhood impressions into a legacy spanning generations.

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1 week ago
21 minutes 55 seconds

Celebrity Interviews
Glover Quin: 10 Years in the NFL, Intercepting Legends & Life After Football

Former NFL safety Glover Quin joins Neil Haley to share his incredible journey from basketball player to 10-year NFL veteran who intercepted some of the game's greatest quarterbacks. Glover reveals he actually quit football after eighth grade to focus on varsity basketball as a freshman, but walked into the gym on the first day of school, saw it was empty while his friends were at football practice, and made a spontaneous decision that changed his life. He discusses what it means to be "that guy" since third grade, explaining that reaching the highest levels requires both talent and work ethic - you can't teach a 4.2 forty-yard dash speed, but you can perfect skills through relentless preparation. Glover emphasizes that NFL players don't retire because of Sundays - they retire because of the grueling Monday through Saturday preparation, training, and film study.

Glover shares memorable moments from his career, including interceptions against Drew Brees (twice), Peyton Manning, Aaron Rodgers, Philip Rivers, and Matt Ryan, explaining how the game situation made each pick meaningful beyond just the quarterback's name. He reveals his intentional approach to retirement - he only wanted to play exactly 10 years and walked off the field after a 31-0 win against Green Bay in 2018, having started 148 consecutive games over nine and a half seasons. Now focused on being a dedicated father to three athletic sons and running his custom framing business, Glover also co-hosts the "Believe in Lions" podcast with Jack Cavanaugh. He breaks down the Detroit Lions' playoff chances, analyzes the NFC North competition, and explains why he believes Detroit has the talent, coaching, and defense to finally win their division if the offensive line stays healthy.

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1 week ago
20 minutes 36 seconds

Celebrity Interviews
Marion Ross: Happy Days Memories, Broadway Stories & Writing "My Days: Happy and Otherwise"

Television icon Marion Ross, forever remembered as Mrs. C from Happy Days, joins Neil Haley to discuss her remarkable career and new memoir "My Days: Happy and Otherwise." Marion reveals surprising behind-the-scenes tension from Happy Days, explaining that Tom Bosley initially didn't want her as his TV wife because he came from Broadway (having won a Tony for "Fiorello") and wanted someone "more important." She candidly shares how it took a long time for them to develop a genuine friendship, though Tom was ultimately "a really nice man, a very good man." Marion explains the memoir's title reflects both her happy television success and the difficult "otherwise" period between ages 40-50 when she went through a challenging divorce.

Marion discusses how her son, actor Jim Meskimen (known for the Geico George Washington commercial), literally had to convince her to write the book by bringing writer David Laurel to her house. She describes her preferred method of storytelling - being recorded in conversation rather than typing - and how the collaborative process made the memoir possible. Marion shares incredible stories from her diverse career, including performing Noel Coward's "Blithe Spirit" live on CBS with Claudette Colbert, Lauren Bacall, and Coward himself, working with Cary Grant, playing a Jewish Polish grandmother on "Brooklyn Bridge," voicing characters on SpongeBob SquarePants, and appearing as Drew Carey's mother. Now retired and living at "Happy Days Farm," Marion continues connecting with fans through book signings across the country, from San Francisco to Missouri to New York, where hundreds of devoted fans line up to meet the woman who made Mrs. C a household name.

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1 week ago
10 minutes 13 seconds

Celebrity Interviews
Celebrity Interviews is the number 2 Celebrity Podcast in The World and has over 5 million listeners a week. The Neil Haley Show is syndicated on 150+ stations. Here are some of the stations and markets the show is being played on: Prestonsburg, KY - 1310 AM Tampa Bay Area: 92.1 FM Las Vegas, NV: 1520 AM / 99.5 FM Macon, GA: 87.9 FM Lancaster, PA: AM 1640 / FM 102.1 Boulder, CO: 96.3 FM Milwaukee, WI: 90.3 FM Pittsburgh, PA: 94.7 FM Long Beach, CA: 87.5 FM The Villages, FL: 97.7 FM Colorado Springs, CO: 95.4 FM Jacksonville, FL: 90.3 FM Washington D.C.: 96.7 FM Rock Hill, SC: 89.5 FM