Norma Safford Vela, a trailblazing television writer and showrunner, joins the conversation to share her inspiring journey in the entertainment industry. From breaking into Hollywood as a woman when the field was dominated by men to working on iconic shows like St. Elsewhere, Roseanne, Designing Women, and Sabrina, the Teenage Witch, Norma recounts the challenges and triumphs she faced along the way. Her stories offer a unique behind-the-scenes look at the creative process and the evolution of TV writing during some of its most pivotal moments. Norma also discusses her personal growth, the significance of staying true to oneself in writing, and the importance of creating diverse and inclusive content. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the history of television and the inspiring journey of a woman who helped shape it.

Show Highlights:

• Breaking Barriers: Norma shares her unique path to becoming a television writer, starting out in a male-dominated industry and overcoming significant challenges to establish her career.
• Iconic Shows: Insights into Norma's work on some of the most beloved TV shows, including St. Elsewhere, Roseanne, Designing Women, and Sabrina, the Teenage Witch.
• Creative Process: Norma discusses the collaborative and often challenging process of writing and producing for television, including memorable moments from the writers' room.
• Diversity and Inclusion: The importance of casting and writing with authenticity and diversity, particularly in shows like Davis Rules and George, where Norma emphasized accurate representation.
• Mentorship and Legacy: Norma reflects on her role in mentoring young writers and her impact on the industry, including inspiring future creators like Joss Whedon and Doug Ellin.
• Personal Growth: How Norma balanced her demanding career with personal life challenges, including the transition to her current focus on art and family life in rural Maine.
• •  

You're going to love my conversation with Norma Safford Vela

• IMDB
• Instagram
• Norma's website

Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host):

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Bari Alyse recounts her journey from an NBC page to hosting her own successful podcast, sharing unforgettable stories from her time at Saturday Night Live and the David Letterman Show. She reveals the wild and unexpected moments behind the scenes of daytime talk shows like Montel Williams and Carnie Wilson, and offers insights into working with Al Franken on Lateline and Kenan Ivory Wayans. With humor and candor, Bari discusses the creation of the Community News Podcast and the inspiration behind its quirky small-town setting.

Show Highlights:

• • • Introduction to Bari Alyse: Bari shares her journey from being an NBC page to hosting her own podcast. She recalls the challenges and highlights of working behind the scenes in some of television's most iconic shows.
    • Adventures as an NBC Page: Bari dives into her time as a page at Saturday Night Live and the David Letterman Show, including hilarious and unexpected encounters with celebrities and the rigorous process of becoming a page.
    • Crazy Experiences in Daytime TV: From Montel Williams to Carnie Wilson, Bari recounts the wild and unpredictable nature of working on daytime talk shows. She shares jaw-dropping stories, including a guest demanding her shoes and another making inappropriate advances.
    • Insights on Late-Night TV: Bari reflects on her time working with Al Franken on Lateline and her role in the Keenen Ivory Wayans Show. She discusses the unique dynamics of late-night television and her contributions to the shows.
    • Launching the Community News Podcast: Learn how Bari and her co-host Paul created their humorous and relatable podcast set in a fictional small town. Bari explains the inspiration behind the podcast and its growing popularity.

You're going to love my conversation with Bari Alyse

• Community News Podcast

Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host):

• Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter
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• Podcast website
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• Join my mailing list
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• Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show

Ways to support the show:

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Dean Cameron, star of '80s and '90s hits like "Summer School" and "Ski School," shares his incredible journey through Hollywood. From his early days living with future stars like Eric Stoltz and Anthony Edwards to his memorable roles alongside legends like Ray Walston and Carl Reiner, Dean offers a candid and humorous look at his career. He discusses the impact of typecasting, the constant re-runs of his films, and his foray into new creative outlets like directing, writing, and music.  

Show Highlights:

• • Dean's early life and move to Los Angeles to pursue acting
  • Living with Eric Stoltz, Anthony Edwards, and other future stars
  • Behind-the-scenes stories from "Summer School" and "Ski School"
  • Working with Ray Walston and Carl Reiner
  • The impact of typecasting and cable re-runs on his career
  • Dean's experiences with directing, writing, and making music
  • Reflections on the highs and lows of his Hollywood journey
  • Entertaining anecdotes and lessons learned from the entertainment industry

You're going to love my conversation with Dean Cameron

• IMDB
• Dean's Website
• Dean's music

Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host):

• Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter
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• Podcast website
• Podcast on Instagram
• Join my mailing list
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• 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)
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• Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.

Take a nostalgic trip down memory lane with Larry Mathews, best known as Ritchie Petrie on "The Dick Van Dyke Show." Larry opens up about his unforgettable experiences on the iconic sitcom, sharing hilarious and heartwarming stories about working with TV legends like Dick Van Dyke, Mary Tyler Moore, and Carl Reiner.

Larry reminisces about the groundbreaking aspects of the show, including the famous episode "That's My Boy?" which featured the longest recorded laugh in TV history. He reflects on the show's lasting impact, both on his life and on television history. From his transition from child star to a successful career in post-production, to his current venture with celebrity wine tours, Larry's journey is as fascinating as it is entertaining.

Show Highlights:

• • Larry shares behind-the-scenes stories from "The Dick Van Dyke Show."
  • Discusses working with legends like Dick Van Dyke, Mary Tyler Moore, and Carl Reiner.
  • Insights into the famous episode "That's My Boy?" and its groundbreaking impact.
  • Larry's transition from a child star to a career in post-production.
  • His current involvement in celebrity wine tours in Oregon.
  • The enduring legacy and timeless appeal of "The Dick Van Dyke Show."
  • Personal anecdotes and humorous moments from his acting career.

You're going to love my conversation with Larry Mathews

• IMDB
• Wine Tours with Larry

Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host):

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• Podcast website
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• Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show

Ways to support the show:

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Bill Scheft takes us on a journey through his illustrious career in comedy and writing. From his early stand-up days to becoming a key writer for David Letterman, Bill's stories are filled with humor and insight. He discusses his books, his love for classic music, and his recent work in documentaries, providing a well-rounded view of his contributions to the entertainment world.

Show Highlights:

• • Early Career and Comedy Clubs: Bill shares anecdotes from his early days in comedy, including his time performing at Mark Ridley's Comedy Castle in Detroit, a favorite spot for many comedians.
  • Transition to Writing: Insight into how Bill transitioned from stand-up comedy to writing for television, including his initial experiences and challenges.
  • Working with Legends: Stories about working with comedy greats like David Letterman, and his interactions with other iconic figures in the industry.
  • Bill’s Books: Discussion about Bill's novels, including the stories behind their creation and the themes he explores.
  • Band and Music: Bill talks about his band, The Truants, which only plays music from 1967 or earlier, and how it connects to his novel, "Time Won't Let Me."
  • Documentary Work: Bill’s involvement in documentaries, including the award-winning "Take My Nose… Please!" and his ongoing projects.
  • Bill Hicks on Letterman: Bill Scheft shares an insightful and poignant story about the late, great comedian Bill Hicks. Bill recounts how his wife, Adrienne, played a crucial role in getting Hicks on the Letterman show. He also delves into the controversial moment when Hicks' final performance on Letterman was cut, and the emotional aftermath of Hicks' untimely death.

You're going to love my conversation with Bill Scheft

• Website
• The Truants
• Staff Fav Moments (Letterman)- Bill Scheft
• Book: Time Won't Let Me
• Tommy Dash - Audio Book
• My Bill Scheft on Amazon
• Twitter

Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host):

• Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter
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• 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.

Dan Bakkedahl, star of the new show "Dinner with the Parents" on Freevee shares insights from his eclectic career, from his beginnings in improv with Second City to his memorable roles in popular TV shows like "Veep," "Life in Pieces," and "The Daily Show." Dan reveals behind-the-scenes stories, the challenges of playing comedic jerks, and the joys of working with legends like Steve Carell and Julia Louis-Dreyfus. Tune in for a fun-filled conversation packed with laughter, anecdotes, and Dan's unique perspective on the entertainment industry.

Show Highlights:

• Dinner with the Parents: Dan's latest project, the dynamics of the show, and working with Mikayla Watkins and Carol Kane.
• Second City: Dan's early career in improv and his journey with Second City.
• The Daily Show: Experiences and challenges during his time on "The Daily Show."
• Veep: Behind-the-scenes stories and working with Julia Louis-Dreyfus on "Veep."
• Life in Pieces: Memorable moments and character insights from "Life in Pieces."
• Legit: Dan's experience and stories from working on "Legit" with Jim Jefferies.
• Other Notable Roles: Guest appearances and roles in shows like "Brooklyn Nine-Nine," "The Goldbergs," and "Community."
• Comedy Process: Dan's thoughts on playing comedic jerks and his creative process.

You're going to love my conversation with Dan Bakkedahl

• IMDB
• Mr. Johnson's Time Machine Podcast

Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host):

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• Podcast website
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• Join my mailing list
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• 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)
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Marc Price, famously known as "Skippy" from the beloved TV show Family Ties takes us on a journey through his illustrious career, sharing hilarious anecdotes from his time on Family Ties, his adventures in the world of stand-up comedy, and his roles in cult classics like "Killer Tomatoes Eat France" and "Trick or Treat" alongside legends like Ozzy Osbourne and Gene Simmons.  

Highlights:

1. 1. Early Career and Family Ties:

      • Marc’s entry into show business through his father's influence.
      • His journey to becoming a beloved character on Family Ties.
      • Memorable moments from the set and working with Michael J. Fox.

   2. Cult Classics:

      • Stories from the sets of "Killer Tomatoes Eat France" and "Trick or Treat."
      • Marc’s reflections on his co-stars and the films' lasting impact.

   3. Stand-Up Comedy:

      • Marc's experiences on the road as a stand-up comedian.
      • Insight into his comedy style and influences.
      • Tales from his touring adventures and interactions with other comedians.

   4. Current Projects:

      • Marc’s efforts in raising money for the Michael J. Fox Foundation.
      • His upcoming horror film "Witchy Ways," where he plays the antagonist.
      • Reflections on the evolving entertainment industry and future aspirations.

   5. Personal Anecdotes:

      • Hilarious and heartwarming stories about Marc’s personal life and career.
      • His unique perspective on the changes in Hollywood over the years.
      • Marc's humorous take on life, fame, and his beloved pet dog, Casper.

You're going to love my conversation with Marc Price

• Facebook
• Website
• Merch
• IMDB
• Michaell J Fox Foundation

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.

Tonya Todd shares insights into her dynamic career in writing, acting, directing, and podcasting. She discusses her creative processes, the importance of diversity and inclusion in storytelling, and her directorial debut with the short film "Mourning Sacrifice." This engaging conversation highlights the passion and dedication behind Tonya’s multifaceted career.

Highlights:

• Creative Control: Tonya prefers writing novels for the control it offers compared to screenwriting.
• Directing Challenges: The process and challenges of directing "Morning Sacrifice."
• Diversity Advocacy: Importance of diversity and inclusion in storytelling.
• Teaching Experience: Tonya’s role in conducting workshops on diversity.
• Career Journey: Moving from acting and writing to directing.
• Inspiration: Tonya's influences and motivations in her creative work.
• Project Insights: Behind-the-scenes look at Tonya’s various projects and future plans.

You're going to love my conversation with Tonya Todd

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• IMDB
• Tanya's newsletter
• Femme On Podcast

Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host):

• Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter
• The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter
• Podcast website
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• Join my mailing list
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• 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.

Discover the untold story behind the iconic film Napoleon Dynamite as Darci Monet shares her experiences and challenges in the music industry. From singing as a child to her pivotal role in the film's soundtrack, Darci reveals the highs and lows of her career, including the struggle for proper recognition. This episode delves into her journey of resilience, creativity, and the power of turning setbacks into comebacks. Hear how she reclaimed her narrative and continues to inspire others through her music and coaching.

Highlights:

• Introduction and Overview: Jeff introduces the episode with a nostalgic nod to the 20th anniversary of Napoleon Dynamite.
• Darci Monet's Early Years: Darci shares anecdotes from her childhood, discovering her love for music, and her first performances.
• Career Beginnings: Insights into Darci’s initial steps into the professional music world, including her experiences in Nashville and Los Angeles.
• Napoleon Dynamite Experience: A deep dive into Darci’s involvement with Napoleon Dynamite, the behind-the-scenes story of recording "The Rose", and the challenges she faced with credits and recognition.
• Turning Lemons into Lemonade: Darci talks about her journey of reclaiming her narrative, recording a full version of "The Rose", and the empowerment she found in sharing her story.
• Other Notable Collaborations: Highlights of Darci’s work with industry icons like Dolly Parton and Steve Winwood.
• Vocal Coaching and Future Projects: Darci discusses her transition into vocal coaching, her podcast ventures, and upcoming projects.

You're going to love my conversation with Darci Monet

• Website
• Listen to The Rose on Spotify
• TikTok
• Instagram
• Facebook
• PODCAST

Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host):

• Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter
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• Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show

Ways to support the show:

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• Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.

Jeremy Coon, known for producing the iconic Napoleon Dynamite and directing the new documentary A Disturbance in the Force. Jeremy celebrates two decades of Napoleon Dynamite, revealing the film's origins, its surprise success, and its lasting legacy. He also delves into the making of his documentary on the Star Wars Holiday Special, shedding light on this peculiar piece of pop culture history. Hear about the process of bringing these projects to life, from the challenges faced to the unexpected joys encountered. 

Highlights:

• Jeremy Coon discusses the 20th anniversary of the cult classic film, Napoleon Dynamite, reflecting on its creation and unexpected success.
• Insight into Coon's latest documentary, A Disturbance in the Force, which delves into the making of the infamous Star Wars Holiday Special.
• Behind-the-scenes stories from the making of Napoleon Dynamite.
• The cultural impact of Napoleon Dynamite and its lasting legacy over the past two decades.
• Detailed exploration of 70s TV variety shows and their influence, as featured in A Disturbance in the Force.
• Fun anecdotes from Jeremy Coon about his filmmaking journey, including interactions with key figures in the Star Wars Holiday Special.
• Reflections on the challenges and triumphs in creating documentaries and feature films.

You're going to love my conversation with Jeremy Coon

• Disturbance in the Force Website
• IMDB

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.