The Big Wakeup Call

Bobby Berk, one of the nation's top designers and one of the stars of the new "Queer Eye" on Netflix gave us a call live on location from the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design museum to celebrate National Design Week. Bobby gave me some tips on re-doing my place on a radio money budget, including how to keep an organized, functional home with two teenagers and a 3-year-old.

John Michael Higgins returned to the show as promised to talk about season 2 of his hit show America Says, now airing weeknights at 9/8c on GSN. John talked about what makes a good contestant, the new twists, turns and special effects this season, and whether or not I could be the loud, overly enthusiastic announcer.

Bill McCormick from the World News Center called in with exciting news about being part of an Amazon #1 bestseller. Also: Bill wistfully recalls his days as an IT pro, people who don't believe in the Internet, and why the DC Universe is not doomed. Plus: Casey Kasem as Scooby and Robin, Titans v. Teen Titans, and Josie and the Pussycats new death metal LP.

Jake Borelli called into talk about the fall finale of Gray's Anatomy, which we tried to do tactfully without revealing any spoilers if it's still awaiting you on your DVR. We discussed Levi's character development, how he portrays the perfect combination of strength and vulnerability, and his decision to come out publicly around the same time as Levi and Nico finally acted on their feelings.

It was a thrill to chat with John Flansburgh of They Might Be Giants. The Big Wakeup Call has just become an affiliate of the They Might Be Giants Radio Network, and we'll be featuring a new, exclusive Dial-A-Song tune every week. John and I had a fun conversation where unabashed flattery sits comfortably alongside genuine questions. A great visit with one of my all-time favorites.

Bill McCormick from the World News Center joined the show in his regular weekly slot for a lively discussion about Thanksgiving food misconceptions, cures "they" don't want you to know about, and why you don't really need to shop organic.

Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning actor Tom Berenger called in to talk about his latest movie, American Dresser, which is now out on DVD and Blu-Ray combo pack.  We discussed working with Keith David again, motorcycle helmet laws, and the joys of packing up and moving.

Laurie Berkner returned to the show for a chat about her new project, "Laurie Berkner's Song and Story Kitchen," which is now available as a 10-part Audible Original Series.

Gabriel "Fluffy" Iglesias called in for a fun chat about his many new projects, including his Netflix comedy special "One Show Fits All" (and another special he's already taped to air next year -- plus he's got a Netflix series in the works), and his upcoming "Beyond The Fluffy" world tour.

Lauren Lake called in to talk about the 6th season of "Lauren Lake's Paternity Court," now airing at 9am CT on WCIU, "The U."  Lauren's show is on the same time as The Big Wakeup Call, so of course I suggest DVRing the show and then watching it starting at 10:01 CT.