Teen heartthrob, actor, pop star, author, activist… what's struck me most about this man I’ve adored since childhood is what a lovely and fine human he is.

Paul Petersen began his career as a Mouseketeer, then appeared in Houseboat with Sophia Loren and Cary Grant, achieving stardom playing Jeff Stone from 1958 to 1966 on The Donna Reed Show. A pop star as well, Paul had hit records with She Can't Find Her Keys, Amy, Lollipops and Roses, and My Dad. And boy do I have a story!

Turning to writing when acting work became scarce, Paul published 7 novels in one year. An overachiever at everything's he's done.

Following the suicide of former child star Rusty Hamer, Paul founded A Minor Consideration, to improve working conditions for child actors and to assist in the transition between working as a child actor and adult life, whether in acting or in other professions. Most recently, reaching out to Erin Moran, just prior to her death. Thanks to his efforts, innumerable lives have been changed... and, saved.

This is one of my favorite conversations... ever, filled with wisdom and compassion. I respect and adore this man.

Vicki Abelson's BROADcast: The Road Taken

Produced by Louise Palanker

Sound edited by Jon Mattox

Also available on:

iTunes apple.co/2dj8ld3

Stitcher bit.ly/2h3R1fl

tunein bit.ly/2gGeItj

This week's show is sponsored by Quik Impressions, the best printers, printing. quikimpressions.com

BROADcast debuts 5/23/17