On a monthly episode of the Hollywood Godfather podcast, Gianni and Jeanie bring on executive producer Michael Austin to answer listener questions about online safety, scams, and AI. Mike advises never clicking email links, verifying issues by going directly to official websites, checking sender email addresses, and using name-brand security tools such as router-based services (e.g., Netgear Armor) and malware scanners. He warns about public Wi‑Fi, recommending VPNs or hotspots and avoiding banking on shared networks, plus using two-factor authentication, PayPal or protected cards, and being cautious of card skimmers. They discuss current scams involving fake citations, bogus threats, and gift-card overpayment schemes, recommend the YouTube channel Scammer Payback, and cover how AI-generated video and audio are becoming harder to detect, with telltale signs diminishing within a few years. Gianni promotes his book Mafia Secrets and mentions his live show is not filmed.

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Gianni and Jeanie record the Podcast while on location at the Chill Out event in New Jersey and a racetrack, welcoming longtime friend Paul Anka as part of their “Legends” series. Anka discusses how his songs, including “Put Your Head on My Shoulder,” are trending on TikTok, and promotes his HBO Max documentary “Paul Anka: His Way” and a planned Broadway show about his life. He shares family details, including five daughters, a 20-year-old son entering the publishing business, and his daughter’s marriage to Jason Bateman. Anka recounts writing “Diana” at 15 and launching his career via ABC-Paramount, outlines upcoming tour stops including Borgata in April and Vegas in May, and talks about staying healthy, avoiding stress, and staying active as he ages.

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On the Hollywood Godfather podcast, Gianni and Jeanie welcome back actor and visual artist Federico Castelluccio, who was born in Naples and came to the U.S. in 1968. Castelluccio discusses early acting work in New York theater and soap operas, stressing theater as an essential foundation, and recalls returning to Italy to film The Sopranos. He describes his formal art training on a full scholarship to the School of Visual Arts, his realist charcoal and painting techniques (often 100–130 hours per drawing), and explains how his “Duke and Duchess of North Caldwell” Sopranos-inspired painting was commissioned after he pitched it to TV Guide. He shares updates on his wife’s documentary, recent and upcoming films (Don Q, Cabrini, The Loophole, Into the Black, Bad News on the Doorstep), directing plans, and a prospective New York City gallery exhibition of large charcoal works.

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Gianni and co-host Jeanie celebrate 6.5 years and their 360th Hollywood Godfather podcast episode, teasing expanded reach and possible national radio. In a mailbag show, Russo promotes the Chiller convention April 2–4 at the Hanover Marriott in Whippany, New Jersey, urging fans to buy his books Hollywood Godfather and Mafia Secrets on Amazon and bring memorabilia for signing; they also plug his Cameo messages. Russo answers questions about travel (rarely Midwest), fitness (walking two miles daily at Bloomingdale’s), and changes in modern mobsters, describing a recent intimidation call. He discusses benefits with boxer Boom Boom Mancini, memories of his State Street restaurant and staff who became successful, the origin of a photo of him selling pens, and historic NYC spots. Russo says producer George Gallo is developing a Mafia Secrets screenplay tied to Marilyn Monroe claims, shares a Sinatra-Ava Gardner story, recounts AJ Pratt “Tailor from Sin City,” explains Godfather set details (Brando’s cat, real horse head), gives an update on Resorts World Aqueduct timing, recalls attending major boxing matches, and describes Vegas showgirls and his wig business.

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Gianni opens the show with co-host Jeanie Raymond and interviews his longtime friend Bobby Vinton by audio only at Vinton’s request. They discuss Vinton’s major hits “Blue Velvet” (1963) and “Mr. Lonely,” his ongoing nerve issues from shingles and his regret about not getting the shingles shot, and memories of Russo’s spaghetti dinners for Vinton’s family in Las Vegas. Vinton recounts awkwardly telling Dean Martin he topped Billboard airplay (with Sinatra present) and describes how his Polish hit “My Melody of Love” led to a syndicated variety show, though none of his children pursued performing beyond son Rob helping manage. Russo plugs upcoming appearances and books, mentions a planned $50 million film, and Vinton shares a story about an impostor “John Wayne Jr.” that ultimately helped him befriend John Wayne. The show closes with “Mr. Lonely.”

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On the Hollywood Godfather podcast, Gianni and Jeanie talk with Dr. Daniel Conti III about Russo’s return to Goodfellas Restaurant/Doc Social Club in Garfield, New Jersey on March 26, including dinner, an expanded Q&A, meet-and-greet, and book signing for Russo’s Hollywood Godfather and Mafia Secrets; the $150 price includes tax and tip. Conti describes the intimate speakeasy-like upstairs venue, the themed restaurant rooms, and the menu highlights. He shares his father Dr. Daniel Conti Jr.’s path as a physician-actor who appeared in films connected to Joe Pesci, Frank Vincent, and Tommy DeVito, opened the restaurant in 1991, and maintained friendships that influenced casting stories around Raging Bull. They discuss Conti III continuing the family legacy while still practicing medicine, plus his monthly “Goodfellas to Godfellas” spiritual dinner (second Tuesday) and future events like movie nights and a mob murder mystery.

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Gianni and Jeanie interview Tony Orlando, who recounts knowing Russo since around 1980 and praises Russo’s legendary storytelling and Las Vegas speakeasy era. Russo shares stories from his youth, including selling ballpoint pens after polio and meeting Frank Costello, plus his real-estate connection to O.J. Simpson’s Rockingham house. Orlando and Russo discuss shared connections to John Catsimatidis and the Copacabana, where Orlando says his uncle Carmine Fava was maitre d’ and where Orlando witnessed performers while underage. Orlando tells personal stories involving Crazy Joe Gallo (including being invited to Gallo’s home and seeing a pet lion), his early hit at 16 (“Halfway to Paradise” written by Carole King), and friendships with major entertainers. Orlando describes working at CBS with Clive Davis as a vice president, signing artists like Barry Manilow, and later achieving major success with Tony Orlando and Dawn, including “Tie a Yellow Ribbon,” a TV show watched by 36 million weekly, and a Phyllis Diller on-air moment where her wig came off. He shares multiple Frank Sinatra anecdotes, including Sinatra correcting his diction, recording “Tie a Yellow Ribbon” for John Wayne, arranging a star-studded Friars Club event honoring Gene Kelly, and a Caesars Palace night when Sinatra learned his mother’s plane had crashed. Orlando explains he retired from touring concerts due to travel and overhead but is launching a storytelling show and considering a book or audio format; he also notes work for eight presidents and other career highlights. The conversation ends with Russo promoting upcoming New Jersey appearances and book signings, and Orlando describing his WABC radio show and longtime veterans charity work through his Tribute to Valor Foundation, which brings Medal of Honor recipients to schools and has reached about 100,000 students.

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In this episode, Gianni and Jeanie welcome co-author Michael Benson as the discussion revolves around Benson's new book about Carlo Gambino, along with his previous collaboration with the host on various organized crime books. Benson shares insights into his journey into writing about gangsters, starting with a chance encounter with Frank Damario and editing his book. He details the process of writing about Carmine Persico, Albert Anastasia, and other notable gangsters. The conversation also touches on personal anecdotes including Benson's background and experiences, as well as the Gianni’s reflections on growing up surrounded by organized crime figures.

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The podcast episode features Gianni and Chad Erickson, discussing their experiences with 'Hot Mic Events' and their unique approach to revitalizing the entertainment business through creative sponsorship models. They organize shows at small venues like restaurants and theaters by incorporating local sponsorships from beer, wine, and liquor companies as well as media and radio stations, making high-quality entertainment accessible and affordable. The recent collaboration involved doing five shows in five different locations in sub-zero weather, which was highly successful despite the challenging conditions. They also reminisce about their experiences, emphasizing Gianni's unique storytelling, singing talent, and unwavering hospitality towards fans. Chad elaborates on his background in radio and voiceover work, and how it led to the creation of Hot Mic Events, which combines high production values with interactive, memorable performances. They plan to continue expanding and possibly take the show to warmer climates and new locations across the country.

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In this episode of the Hollywood Godfather podcast, hosts Gianni and Jeanie introduce a new monthly segment featuring Mike Austin, the technical expert behind the podcast. The discussion revolves around the rapid changes in the entertainment industry, driven by AI and digital innovation, including the rise of virtual artists and AI-generated content. Gianni shares insights on a new venture with 'Hot Mikes' for affordable shows featuring sponsors. Mike also delves into the increasing role of AI in creating music and films, highlighting both the technological advances and legal complexities involved. Additionally, the conversation covers the vulnerabilities and security concerns arising from dependence on digital technologies, such as identity theft, scam prevention, and the need for robust online protection measures. Mike emphasizes the importance of proactive security steps like using VPNs, avoiding common scams, and recognizing the limitations of privacy in the digital age. The segment aims to provide valuable insights and practical tips for staying safe and informed in the evolving digital landscape.

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