The Big Wakeup Call

I had so much fun last week talking to Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan from Go Fug Yourself about throwing an Oscar bash at home that I wanted to have them back on to give their thoughts about the fashions at Sunday night's ceremonies. We discussed whether or not fashion is "back with a vengeance," surprise fashion winners, and why after the bonanza of Oscar-related free stuff I got last week (celebrity swag bag, wine, champagne, ice cream) this week so far I've received nothing. (Perhaps that portion of the segment was slightly self-indulgent.)

Emma Gray is the Executive Women's Editor at HuffPost and the author of "A Girl's Guide to Joining the Resistance," which is the best and most impactful book I've read all year. In fact, after reading it I ordered 10 copies to be sent to others I know will feel the same way after reading it. A very important book from an outstanding writer.

It was so great to chat with one of my childhood heroes as Burt Ward called in to talk about the digital and Blu-Ray release of "Batman vs. Two Face," also featuring the voices of Adam West and William Shatner, as well as his Gentle Giants dog rescue and nutrition programs. So fun to hear Robin greet me with "Hello, citizen!"

im Fannin is a motivational speaker and is America's #1 ZoneCoach. Jim's new book is "The Blueprint: A Proven Plan For Successful Living." Jim discussed his background as a pro tennis player, working with athletes, how he developed his "SCORE" system, and how to stay in the moment and avoid negativity. Jim says he's been awesome without any negativity since 1962! I hope to start a similar streak beginning today.

Lash Fary is the gift guru behind Distinctive Assets, the company that provides the much-discussed gift bags given to nominees at major awards shows. This will be their 17th year handling gifts for the Academy Awards. Lash answered my many questions about the gift bags (with which I've always been fascinated), including whether or not there is an actual bag, how the gifts are chosen, and the feedback he receives from the celebs. Plus: why any negative reaction to the gifts make no sense if you really think about it.

Mark Greaney is a New York Times #1 Bestselling Author and creator of the Gray Man series. His newest book is Agent in Place. We discussed his writing process, working through deadlines, creating realistic dialogue, and the distinction between the story and storytelling.

Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan from "Go Fug Yourself" called in to offer their helpful hints on throwing a red carpet-style Oscar party at home. Along with party drinks and snacks, discussion topics included everyone being an hour late, Canadian Tuxedos, amateur Project Runway competitions, and floating heads.

Bill McCormick called in from the World News Center for his weekly visit and answered a listener's question about a supposed new presidential rating system (there is none). We also talked more about Black Panther, including our appearance in an upcoming issue of ICC Magazine. Plus: Frank Zappa & Dee Snider vs. Tipper Gore, Ryan's Batgirl fan fiction, retro cliffhangers, and awkward yet undetectable edits.

Ed O'Bannon called in to discuss his new book "Court Justice" about his court case against the NCAA. Ed talked about the history of the case (originally inspired by an EA Sports video game), his thoughts on athletes today willing to be more outspoken for their rights and representation, and thoughts on how to improve college basketball.

Bill McCormick from the World News Center joined the show to discuss the new Marvel movie "Black Panther." Using his connections with The Big Wakeup Call, Bill was able to get into a special screening including a live via satellite Q&A with the stars of the film.

Discussion topics included the how the film hits on many different levels, a wacky human trafficking scene that turns into a love story, and the most knee-slapping bullet-in-the-spine scene ever.