Dystopia Tonight With John Poveromo

Christian Cordes is an award winning, and extremely versatile filmmaker, director, writer, and podcaster known for his creative storytelling and compelling projects. We discuss his latest venture, Ghostbuster Down, our shared love for the Muppets and Scrubs, his friendship with Kevin Smith, family history, and more! Full episode link in bio!

Felix Cavaliere is an American singer, songwriter, and keyboardist best known as a founding member and lead vocalist of The Rascals (originally known as The Young Rascals). Born on November 29, 1942, in Pelham, New York, Cavaliere became a key figure in the 1960s blue-eyed soul movement. With The Rascals, he co-wrote and performed hits like "Good Lovin'," "Groovin'," and "People Got to Be Free." Known for his soulful voice and Hammond organ skills, Cavaliere has continued to perform and record as a solo artist and has been inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Ryan Stout is a seasoned stand-up comedian who has performed all over the world. He’s made over 200 television appearances on programs including CONAN, Chelsea Lately, HBO’s Funny as Hell, Comedy Central’s Live at Gotham, and his own half-hour special: Comedy Central Presents… Ryan Stout. He’s hosted game shows, clip shows, and talk shows for networks like MTV, FOX, CBS, and AXS TV. Ryan has also released three stand-up comedy albums — Touché (2011), How to Be an Audience (2016), and Man in the Suit (2019) — which all debuted at the top of the comedy sales charts and have since been streamed millions of times across multiple platforms and are regularly broadcast on Sirius/XM Satellite Radio. He’s been heard on comedy podcasts like WTF with Marc Maron, Your Mom’s House, and Doug Loves Movies. And, if you have real sharp eyes, you might’ve seen Ryan on Netflix in the documentary American Meme (2018) and in the Academy Award winning film Mank (2020).

www.ryanstout.com

Jamie has shared stages with Alicia Keys, Michelle Branch, JaRule, The Backstreet Boys, Mandy Moore, Blondie, Cindy Lauper, and many others. She has performed at world famous NY Couture Fashion Week as well as Michael Jackson’s Official This Is It DVD Release Live where she worked with Michael’s dancers, choreographer Travis Payne and director Kenny Ortega. Theater credits include; You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown (Sally), Blood Brothers (Linda), Little Shop Of Horrors (Audrey), The Rocky Horror Show (Columbia). Jamie Marie has appeared in films such as Cafe Society, (working directly with Kristen Stewart and Steve Carell), Not Fade Away (with James Gandolfini), Step Up, and featured in National Commercials for Nickelodeon and MasterCard to name a few. Television credits include; Orange Is The New Black, Blue Bloods, Law & Order: SVU and Law & Order Criminal Intent. Locally, Jamie has  championed the integration of dance with live bands along the iconic Jersey Shore music scene and beyond, performing with well-known acts like Glen Burtnik, Motor City Revue and Remember Jones. Her live show The Velvet Stardust Rock Show tours NYC to LA and brings rock & roll burlesque to a whole new level. Critics hailing the show as “hippest band in NYC right now” and “the key to yet another downtown epoch.” Her passion for advocacy and activism coincides with her mission to provide a safe space where ALL have opportunities to create and perform. She has done so since 2006 as the founder and director of Stage Stars Productions. Creating next-level live band, immersive, theatrical experiences, as well as raising funds and awareness for countless local and global charitable organizations over the last 17 years and receiving numerous awards for her work in social justice and positive change through the arts. Follow her journey on Instagram @jamiemariestar @stagestars_nj @velvetstardustrock @starlightjazzshow 

Jerry Harrison is a legendary musician, songwriter, and producer best known as the keyboardist and guitarist for the influential band Talking Heads. A key figure in the new wave movement, Jerry's innovative sound and creative vision helped shape the band's distinctive style. In addition to his work with Talking Heads, Jerry has a successful solo career and has produced albums for numerous acclaimed artists. His contributions to music have earned him a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, solidifying his legacy as a pioneering force in the industry.

We talk about his time performing in NJ with Talking Heads, Asbury Park, Jon Bon Jovi, Remain In Light, Songs of Arthur Russel, knowing Talking Heads was going to have a cultural impact, David Byrnes’s organization, CBGBs, Blondie, Patti Smith, misheard lyrics, social media, and more. Enjoy!

DeDee Pfeiffer is an accomplished actress and advocate with a dynamic career spanning over three decades. Known for her vibrant personality and versatility, she has captivated audiences in both film and television. DeDee gained widespread recognition for her roles in popular series like "Cybill" and "For Your Love," as well as her recent work in the critically acclaimed drama "Big Sky." Beyond her acting career, DeDee is a passionate advocate for mental health and addiction recovery, drawing from her personal experiences to inspire and support others. Her journey of resilience and transformation adds a profound layer to her public persona, making her a powerful voice in both the entertainment industry and the advocacy community.

DeDee and I talk meeting for the first time, Dystopia Tonight's MS Benefit, Playboy, Seinfeld, Supernatural, Fan Culture, Chiller Theatre, William Shatner, Being Sober, Siblings that take care of each other, no room for competition, future tripping, using the Michelle card, ghost hunting and more! Enjoy!

Lawrence Gowan is a Canadian musician, vocalist, and songwriter, best known as the lead singer and keyboardist for the rock band Styx. Born on November 22, 1956, in Glasgow, Scotland, Gowan moved to Canada with his family at a young age. He began his musical career in the late 1970s, gaining recognition with his solo work in the 1980s, including hits like "A Criminal Mind" and "Moonlight Desires." Gowan joined Styx in 1999, bringing his dynamic stage presence and distinctive voice to the band. Known for his theatrical performances and impressive keyboard skills, Gowan continues to be a vital part of Styx's enduring success in the rock music scene.

Jay Leno, a true icon of American comedy, joins me on this episode of Dystopia Tonight! We swap Richard Lewis stories, chat about his start as a comic at Emerson College, his love for cars and motorcycles on "Jay Leno's Garage." comedy legends Robert Klein, George Carlin, Richard Pryor and Sam Kinison, his legendary Rodney Dangerfield story, Cabaret Cards, The Comedy Store and how he ended the strike, building your comedy community and more. Enjoy!