In studio with me today, the handsome and talented Mike Manning is back in studio with me. This is Mike’s 3rd time on the show and we had a lot to catch up on. From his Emmy win as a producer to now his emmy win as an actor on the popular series, “The Bay,” to the writers and actors strike, we were happy to talk about his many projects he has going on. My favorite thing though is to talk about Mike’s heart through his advocacy and friendships. We discuss his marriage for a second and talk about his upcoming projects. It’s always good to have a lil Mike Manning in the house.

Summary In this interview, Mike Manning discusses his career, recent projects, and the intersection of entertainment and advocacy. He reflects on the importance of union protections and the impact of the SAG strike. Mike shares his holiday plans and the joy of spending time with family. He also talks about his love for Disney and the idealism it represents. Mike discusses the power of art and storytelling in creating societal change and shares his experiences working on impactful projects. He expresses his desire to play a superhero and his hope to continue making a positive impact through his work. In this conversation, Mike Manning discusses his favorite reality TV show, his autobiography, and his ideal dinner party guests. He also shares his thoughts on creating a new holiday.

Takeaways

• Union protections are important for actors and the entertainment industry as a whole.

• Spending time with family during the holidays is a special and joyful experience.

• Disney represents idealism and the belief in the good of humanity.

• Art and storytelling have the power to create change and impact society.

• Mike Manning is passionate about combining entertainment and advocacy in his work. Mike Manning enjoys reality TV shows and would choose a dancing competition like 'Dancing with the Stars' if given the opportunity.

• Mike Manning reflects on the outrageous chapters that could be included in his autobiography, including his experiences on 'The Real World' and working at Disney World.

• If Mike Manning could throw a dinner party, he would invite Ridley Scott, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Denzel Washington to engage in fascinating conversations.

• Mike Manning envisions a new holiday that celebrates gratitude and brings people together from all over the world.

Chapters

00:00Introduction and Background

02:03Discussion on the SAG Strike

03:43The Importance of Union Protections

04:14Reflection on Career and Time Since Last Interview

05:46Holiday Plans and Family Time

06:53Enjoying the Holidays Through the Eyes of Children

07:29Mike's Role as an Uncle

08:37Appreciating the Magic of Disney

09:43Maintaining Idealism and Belief in the Good of Humanity

10:49Finding Joy in the Holidays and Being an Optimist

11:18Remembering Jackie Zeman and the Impact of Her Work

12:47The Power of Art and Storytelling in Creating Change

13:43Mike's Special Projects and Roles

16:34Mike's Career Journey and Pursuit of Acting

17:12Combining Entertainment and Advocacy

20:16The Importance of Learning and Sharing History

23:07Manifesting Positivity and Creating Impactful Stories

26:36Mike's Recent Projects and Roles

27:46The Bay and Mike's Emmy Wins

32:38The Intersection of Entertainment and Advocacy

35:25Reflecting on Career and Special Projects