Spin and Win: The Podcast

Erika McCall, originally from Chicago but raised in a small town just an hour away, is a dynamic figure now based in Los Angeles. With her roots in Illinois State, she's deeply immersed in the non-profit sector, spearheading the "Go for Yours Foundation." Additionally, she's a prolific author with three published books to her name. One of her notable works, "Don't Wait Create," emphasizes seizing opportunities rather than waiting for them to appear.

Her journey took an unexpected turn one evening while watching "Celebrity Wheel of Fortune" with her grandmother. Inspired by the contestants, she boldly decided to apply herself, never expecting a response. To her surprise, she received a call for an audition. Despite living in LA, her first attempt had her on standby, but eventually, she secured a spot on the show a few months later.

In an episode filled with anticipation, Erika triumphed, winning over $12,000. The joy of the moment was amplified by the presence of her grandmother and supportive family. Reflecting on her experience, Erika advises prospective contestants not to fixate on winnings but to focus on enjoying the ride and creating cherished memories.

Jill Prince, is a dedicated 3rd-grade teacher residing in Allegany, NY. A lifelong Wheel of Fortune enthusiast, Jill's love for the show traces back to her childhood, where she watched alongside her family.

After a moment of encouragement from a friend, Jill decided to apply for the show, despite having applied unsuccessfully 20 years prior. To her delight, she received a callback and underwent a virtual audition process. Three months later, Jill received the exciting news that she was selected to participate in the NFL Superfan tournament edition of Wheel of Fortune. As a devoted Buffalo Bills fan, affectionately part of the "Bills Mafia," Jill embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm.

Competing during NFL week, Jill emerged victorious in the tournament, securing an impressive haul of over $130,000 in cash and prizes. Reflecting on her experience, Jill emphasizes the importance of bringing positivity and authenticity to any game show endeavor. Tune in to hear Jill's inspiring journey and her invaluable advice for aspiring contestants.

Chuck Kraus, a proud native of St. Louis, Missouri, and a passionate hockey enthusiast. Despite his musical pursuits after high school, including signing a record deal and touring America, Chuck eventually found his calling as a police officer.

It was a simple suggestion from his girlfriend at the time that sparked his journey to the Wheel of Fortune. In June 2015, he took a chance and applied for the show in Springfield, Illinois, where he attended an invitation-only event email tryout after his audition video at a hotel ballroom. Chuck's excitement reached new heights when he received a call from his sister around 4 pm, waking him up from a post-work shift nap. His sister's ecstatic response was unforgettable: "We got on the Wheel of Fortune!" The tape date for their appearance was set for September 9th, 2015, marking a memorable holiday/team special for Chuck and his sister.

Additionally, Chuck's game show adventures extend beyond Wheel of Fortune, as he also appeared on "$100,000 Pyramid." Tune in to hear Chuck's exhilarating journey from music to law enforcement, and his unforgettable experiences on the game show circuit.

Brian Schwartz, hailing from Philadelphia and known for hosting the YouTube show "Game Show Junkie." Airing on February 9th, 2018, Brian shares his journey of persistence through three final auditions over a seven-year period before finally making it onto "Wheel of Fortune." Enduring a waiting period of over two years, Brian's commitment paid off, despite missing the Eagles parade due to his appearance on the show. His triumph came when he won the prize puzzle, earning himself a trip to Italy and accumulating over $17,000 in winnings. Don't miss out on hearing Brian's captivating story of determination and success!

Joey Johnson, a DJ based in Watertown, NY, whose love for game shows, particularly word games, traces back to his childhood spent watching them with his family. Encouraged by his grandfather, Joey took a chance and applied for Wheel of Fortune in the summer of 2023. When he's not spinning tracks, Joey dedicates his time to working with the Food Bank of Central NY. Pat Sajak even dubbed him a "single dog dad" during his memorable appearance on the show. Tune in to hear Joey's entertaining story and learn how he won over $5,000 on Wheel of Fortune!

Joey Johnson, a DJ based in Watertown, NY, whose love for game shows, particularly word games, traces back to his childhood spent watching them with his family. Encouraged by his grandfather, Joey took a chance and applied for Wheel of Fortune in the summer of 2023. When he's not spinning tracks, Joey dedicates his time to working with the Food Bank of Central NY. Pat Sajak even dubbed him a "single dog dad" during his memorable appearance on the show. Tune in to hear Joey's entertaining story and learn how he won over $5,000 on Wheel of Fortune!

Join us for the latest episode of our podcast featuring Liam Oakes, a public relations specialist at Rutgers University with an adventurous zest for life. Hailing from New Jersey, Liam embodies spontaneity and embraces every opportunity with enthusiasm.

A devoted fan of Wheel of Fortune since his early years, Liam's passion for the show traces back to his childhood, where he recalls playing Wheel of Fortune even in the bathtub. His keen interest in the game was evident as he enthusiastically engaged his peers in discussions about the latest episodes. With multiple versions of Wheel of Fortune at his disposal, Liam honed his spelling skills, attributing his success in spelling tests to the game.

The ultimate birthday surprise came when Liam received the call confirming his spot on the show, a gift he describes as the best birthday present ever. With his mother and brother by his side, Liam emerged victorious, solving the bonus round puzzle and winning over $50,000. Don't miss Liam's exhilarating journey and the joy of his Wheel of Fortune triumph!