The Locher Room

AJ Lovelace and Rob Hill joined me in The Locher Room to discuss the Emmy-eligible independent series Onyx and the inspiring journey behind bringing it to life.

AJ shared how he created Onyx from the ground up, why he refused to wait for permission to tell the stories he believed needed to be told, and what it was like serving as the series’ creator, showrunner, director, cinematographer, editor, actor, and more. He also discussed why releasing Onyx on YouTube made sense for the series and why authentic storytelling will always matter more than chasing algorithms.

Rob reflected on joining Onyx, collaborating with AJ to help bring his vision to life, and how his work as a producer and writer, along with his experiences on The Book of Queer, the podcast soap opera Heritage, and Handsome™, has influenced the stories he wants to tell.

Together, they discussed authentic Black LGBTQ+ representation, the importance of creating opportunities instead of waiting for them, their creative partnership, what Emmy eligibility meant to the entire Onyx team, and why they hope Onyx inspires the next generation of storytellers to believe in their voices and create the stories they want to see.

After listening, be sure to watch Onyx, available free on YouTube.

Celebrate Guiding Light’s 74th television anniversary with beloved cast members Grant Aleksander (Phillip Spaulding), Michael O’Leary (Rick Bauer), Robert Newman (Josh Lewis), actor Robin Nuyen, and actress, attorney, professor, and playwright Sherry Ramsey.

The conversation also celebrates DEVOUT, Sherry Ramsey’s first play, which she wrote and directed. The production reunites Grant Aleksander, Michael O’Leary, Robert Newman, and Robin Nuyen on stage for its world premiere August 27–30, 2026, at ShenanArts in Staunton, Virginia.

Sherry shares the deeply personal inspiration behind the play and why she felt compelled to tell this story of grief, fractured family relationships, forgiveness, and healing. The cast discusses bringing these complex characters to life, rehearsing together over Zoom, and what audiences can expect when the curtain rises.

The conversation also takes a heartfelt trip back to Springfield with memories of Guiding Light, the legendary Bauer Barbecues, lifelong friendships, favorite mentors, and what made the series unlike any other show in daytime television. Robin Nuyen reflects on losing his father, his longtime friendship with Robert Newman, and why joining this production has meant so much to him. Michael O’Leary also delivers his unforgettable Jordan Clarke impression, providing one of the episode’s funniest moments.

As the conversation comes to a close, the cast reflects on what made Guiding Light so special and why, 74 years after its television debut, its legacy continues to bring its cast and fans together.

Tickets for DEVOUT are on sale now at ShenanArts.

At 100 years old, Alan Shayne has lived a life unlike any other.

In this heartfelt conversation, Alan reflects on an extraordinary journey that spans Broadway, the earliest days of television, Hollywood, and his years as President of Warner Bros. Television, where he helped shape iconic series including Wonder Woman, Alice, The Dukes of Hazzard, Growing Pains, and Scarecrow and Mrs. King.

Alan also opens up about discovering his identity as a young man at a time when being gay was neither understood nor accepted, his first love, and the remarkable 68-year relationship he shares with acclaimed artist Norman Sunshine.

Together, we discuss his latest memoir, And It Only Took 100 Years…, the lessons he’s learned from a century of living, why he and Norman first shared their story in Double Life, and what he hopes readers take away from this deeply personal book.

Filled with warmth, humor, honesty, and unforgettable stories, this is a conversation about love, resilience, purpose, and a life truly well lived.

If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast—it helps others discover these conversations.

Podcast Description

Haven Falls creator Casey S. Hutchison joined cast members Jeff Branson, Frank Dicopoulos, BJ Van Griffin, and Kristina Sullivan for a preview of the highly anticipated new audio drama premiering June 25.

The group discussed Casey’s introduction to soap operas, why Haven Falls was the next story he wanted to tell, and his decision to release new episodes at 2 p.m. Central, a nod to the tradition of daytime drama.

Jeff and Frank reflected on their Guiding Light years, their love of serialized storytelling, and the opportunity to return to a format that takes soaps back to their roots. BJ and Kristina shared what drew them to their new characters and what it has been like working with such a talented ensemble cast.

Plus, there was exciting news for Guiding Light fans as Casey revealed that Amelia Marshall, known to many viewers as Gilly Grant, will join Haven Falls beginning with Episode 6.

Haven Falls premieres June 25, 2026 wherever you listen to podcasts.

Author Neil Adams joined me to discuss his book, From the Pile, and the extraordinary life of his close friend Michael Dorian.

During our conversation, Neil reflected on their nearly 30-year friendship, Michael’s childhood trauma, HIV diagnosis, search for love and acceptance, and his determination to build a better life. We also discussed Michael’s decision to run toward Ground Zero on September 11th to help others, the lasting health consequences he faced, and the years-long effort to uncover footage proving he had been there.

Neil shared the touching story of introducing Michael to Aaron, who would become Michael’s partner and fiancé, and reflected on the resilience, courage, and compassion that defined Michael’s life.

It’s a moving conversation about friendship, redemption, service, and the legacy of a man whose story deserves to be remembered.

Amanda Reyes and Daniel Budnik joined me for a fascinating conversation inspired by the Soap Operas in Popular Culture Conference and their presentation, Daytime After Dark: Exploring the Relationship Between the Daytime Drama and the Primetime Made-for-TV Movie.

Together, we looked at the surprising connection between daytime soap operas and the primetime TV movie boom of the 1970s, ’80s, and ’90s. Amanda and Dan shared how soap stars regularly crossed into made-for-TV movies, why networks embraced these actors in primetime projects, and how these films became major television events for audiences across the country.

We also discussed their love of soap operas, the origins of The Made-For-TV Mayhem Show, and some of the most memorable TV movies of the era.

As a special surprise, Colleen Zenk joined us to share memories of appearing in Woman on the Ledge alongside Deidre Hall and Leslie Charleson, and she also looked back at her memorable role as Binky in the cult classic Christmas Evil.

If you love soap operas, television history, pop culture nostalgia, and behind-the-scenes stories, this is an episode you will not want to miss.

Actor Josh Murray joined me for a thoughtful conversation about his award-winning performance in Gym Rat, the dark psychological thriller that earned him Best Actor honors at the Beverly Hills Film Festival.

Josh discussed his lifelong love of movies and how film helped shape the course of his life and career. We explored the powerful themes at the heart of Gym Rat, including addiction, mental health, isolation, redemption, and the importance of sharing stories that help people feel less alone in their struggles.

Josh also reflected on winning Best Actor, working alongside the legendary Lou Ferrigno, and the emotional impact of bringing Lonnie Milsap’s journey to the screen. In addition, we looked back at his role as Russell on General Hospital, where he held Drew Cain captive, and talked about the unique experience of working in daytime television.

The conversation also turned personal as Josh shared the story of his father’s passion for writing screenplays and their hope of one day bringing one of those scripts to life on the big screen.

It was an inspiring discussion about perseverance, storytelling, family, and following your dreams.

Jen Jacob and Jordi Vilasuso joined me in The Locher Room for a fun and insightful conversation about their work on Beyond the Gates and their journeys through the entertainment industry.

Jen talked about her audition process for the role of Ashley Morgan, transitioning from primetime and film into daytime television, and the fast pace that comes with working on a soap. She also opened up about the incredible support system among the cast and what has made this experience so meaningful for her.

Jordi reflected on how the role of Grayson Perez came into his life and what it has meant to step into his fifth daytime role after memorable runs on Guiding Light, All My Children, Days of Our Lives and The Young and the Restless. He also shared his thoughts on the recent two-season renewal for Beyond the Gates and why he believes audiences continue to connect with daytime storytelling.

We also talked about working with their co-stars, the family atmosphere behind the scenes, life outside of acting and so much more.

A heartfelt, funny and engaging conversation with two stars helping bring new energy to daytime television.

Jon Lindstrom joined me in The Locher Room to discuss his new novel Hollywood Payback and what it took to follow up Hollywood Hustle. He opened up about the pressure of writing a second book, the discipline of his early morning routine, and why he truly fell in love with the writing process.

We also talked about the research behind the book, including the experts he leaned on to bring authenticity to the worlds of crime, prison life, and the legal system, and how those insights shaped the story.

Jon shared how his role as Joey Armstrong on Beyond the Gates came to life through his longtime friendship with Michelle Val Jean, and just how much he’s enjoying being part of a brand-new show that’s already building momentum.

He also reflected on his career in daytime television, from Kevin Collins and Ryan Chamberlain to Craig Montgomery, and how those experiences continue to influence his work today.

Plus, Jon gave a preview of what’s next, including his upcoming book Pressure Point, co-written with Jeff Ayers, set for release this December.

Holocaust survivor Nate Leipciger joined me for a powerful Conversation with Alan, sharing his story of survival, resilience, and the responsibility to bear witness.

At just 11 years old, Nate was forced into ghettos and later Auschwitz during the Nazi occupation of Poland. He survived unimaginable conditions alongside his father, including a death march, before being liberated in 1945. His mother and sister were murdered during the Holocaust.

In this conversation, Nate reflected on his memoir The Weight of Freedom, the vivid memories he continues to carry, and the bond with his father that helped him survive. He also spoke about his lifelong work as an educator, including his involvement with March of the Living, and his mission to ensure future generations understand not only what happened, but why it must never be forgotten.

At 98, Nate’s message remains clear and urgent: love your neighbor, accept your fellow man as your equal, and choose to be an upstander, not a bystander.

Bernice Leipciger also joined the conversation, offering her perspective on Nate’s journey and the importance of continuing to share his story.