Why? The Podcast

Why? Episode 421- Showgirl Bootcamp

Mon, 07 Sep 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Fulfilling a life-long dream? Looking for a fun event in Vegas? Either way, the Showgirl Bootcamp will give you the experience of what is required to be a Vegas showgirl. Taught by professionals, you'll learn how to walk, dress and, most importantly, hold your head up while wearing a headdress.

For more information, or to book your own session, check out their website.

Why? Epsiode 420 Imagineer Joe Lanzisero Pt 2

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 04:00:00 -0400

This week, more of our conversation with former Disney Imagineer Joe Lanzisero. We talk about Joe's role in a very important piece of Muppet history, hidden Mickeys and so much more.

You can follow Joe on Instagram.

Why? Epsiode 419 Imagineer Joe Lanzisero Pt 1

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 04:00:00 -0400

We sat down with Disney Imagineer Joe Lanzisero to talk about his career designing worlds at Disney and the process they followed to create worlds and experiences that guests will never forget.

You can follow Joe on Instagram.

Why? Episode 418- Sly and the Family Stone's Jerry Martini

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 04:00:00 -0400

This week we're sharing an episode of our other podcast, Rock n' Roll Grad School and a conversation we recently recorded with Sly and the Family Stone's Jerry Martini.

Jerry has had a fascinating career. He helped put together Sly and the Family Stone. He's played with Prince. He's still touring with the Family Stone Band. For more information and tour dates, check out their website.

Why? Episode 417- The Evel Knievel Experience

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 04:00:00 -0400

A one-of-a-kind legend like Evel Knievel deserves a one-of-a-kind museum. The Evel Knievel Experience is a look at the folk hero that was Evel Knievel, located in Las Vegas, Nevada. We talked with Mike Patterson, one of the heads of the museum who has been along for the ride since the beginning.

For more information check out their website.

Why? Episode 416- Bike Talk's Taylor Nichols

Mon, 03 Aug 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Taylor Nichols just finished biking from Los Angeles to Michigan to show that it is possible and that biking is a great way to travel. Taylor co-hosts that popular Bike Talk podcast dedicated to all things biking. The show can be heard across the country on public radio stations and can be found as a podcast as well. For more information, check out their website.

Why? Episode 415- The Gremlins Museum Collection

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Ian Grant has spent years collecting all elements of the Gremlins films and now he's sharing it with everyone. The Gremlins Museum Collection is, for now, an on-line repository of his collection of scripts, photos, props and, oh yeah, actual Gremlins.

And if that wasn't enough, Ian's work and dedication has led to the discovery of the legendary almost 3 hour long cut of the original Gremlins.

For more information and to see the collection for yourself, check out their website.

Why? Episode 414- Behind the Screams at Spooky World

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 04:00:00 -0400

The Halloween craze has always been with us. But one man can be credited with blowing it up into what it is today. That man is David Bertolino and in his new book, "Behind the Screams at Spooky World," he explains how he built a haunted hayride into a must-see event in New England and then across the country.

The book is available now, wherever you get your books.

Why? Episode 413- The Unmaking of "Hudson Hawk"

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 04:00:00 -0400

It was the stumble heard around the world- Bruce Willis and his fun, goofy, mystery, action comedy that for decades became a punchline. Now, more and more people are standing up and proudly identifying themselves as "pro-Hawk." Film writer David Hughes has written the definitive guide to what went down behind the scenes in his new book "The Unmaking of Hudson Hawk."

"The Unmaking of Hudson Hawk" is available right now from Plumeria Pictures.

Why? Episode 412- Ben Franklin Impersonator Brian Patrick Mulligan

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 08:00:00 -0400

This week, we look back (and clean up from a multi-day power outage) and celebrate the 250th birthday for the US.

Brian Patrick Mulligan is Ben Franklin. And Teddy Roosevelt. And Winston Churchill. And he's been Charlie Chaplin, Oliver Hardy and Harpo Marx.

Brian isn't possessed, he's an impersonator, bringing history to life for people. Sometimes he talks to school or library groups. Sometimes he talks to corporations. Obviously he knows a few things about this founding father.

We talk with Brian about how he got into this line of work, some of his favorite quotes and what facts we've all been getting wrong about Franklin for decades.

For more information, or to book Brian, visit his website.

Why? Episode 411- "Jaws" actor Jeffrey Voorhees

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Jeffrey Voorhees is best known for going swimming off of Amity and not coming back. He played Alex Kintner, one of the earliest victims of the shark terrorizing Chief Brody and the rest of the island.

For more information and to get your official Kintner merch, check out his website.

Why? Episode 410- Sly and the Family Stone's Jerry Martini

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Jerry Martini has had a fascinating career. He helped put together Sly and the Family Stone. He's played with Prince. He's still touring with the Family Stone Band. For more information and tour dates, check out their website.

Why? Episode 409- Actress Lauren-Marie Taylor

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Not too many actors can say they've appeared on screen with John Belushi and Jason Vorhees, and also in over 3,000 episodes of a soap opera. But Lauren-Marie Taylor has done just that.

For more information and to find out where she's be appearing next, check out her website.

Why? Episode 408- Singer, writer Miist

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Miist found music as part of her journey to find happiness. Now, taking what she learned along the way, she is helping others with a new book, her podcast and her music. For more information, check out her website.

Why? Episode 407- Author Nikki Mammano on "Breaking Good"

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Nikki Mammano's memoir, "Breaking Good," is a harrowing if not eventually uplifting story, telling the story of how a drug dealer in Hawaii became one of the biggest dealers in the state and then how she was able to rebuild a sustainable and positive life when it all came crashing down.

For more information, check out her website.

Why? Episode 406- Dearly Departed Tours

Mon, 25 May 2026 04:00:00 -0400

For decades Scott Michaels has been leading people around Los Angeles to see some of the death sites of the famous and infamous. And now he's taken the tour on-line and is sharing items in his collection (Jayne Mansfield's car, Don Rickles' fan, etc.) and so much more on YouTube.

For more information, check out Scott's website or on YouTube.

Why? Episode 405- Author Mark Mustian

Mon, 18 May 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Mark Mustian likes to explore fascinating worlds and then write about them. And his most recent book, Boy With Wings, is a great example of Mark's work. You can pick up a copy wherever you get your books. For more information, check out his website.

Why? Episode 404- It's Dorothy Documentary

Mon, 11 May 2026 04:00:00 -0400

A new documentary, directed by friend of the show Jeffrey McHale explores the legend and legacy of the one and only Dorothy Gale from Kansas. It's now streaming on Peacock, but will be available elsewhere soon.

Why? Epsiode 403- Civil War Tails

Mon, 04 May 2026 04:00:00 -0400

How do you make Civil War history even more interesting? You build dioramas of important battles with cats, of course! (and then exhibit them in Gettysburg, PA) We talked with Rebecca, one of the two sisters responsible for this unique museum. For more information and to go visit them, (and you want to do that) check out their website.

Why? Episode 402- Building the Orca II

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0400

What do you if you love the movie Jaws and want to share that love with people from around the world? Well, if you're Jon Fieldhouse, you build a boat that looks exactly like the one from the movie and offer tours.

We talked with Jon about his hard work in building something that has ended up being incredibly moving for Jaws fans.

For more information and to book your time aboard the Orca II, check out their website.

Why? Episode 401- Celebrating Tura Satana and her documentary

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0400

To know about Tura Satana is to know of her fascinating story of triumph and success amidst many, many challenges. There's a new documentary telling her full story openly and honestly. We sat down with director/producer Cody Jarrett and producer Siouxzan Perry to talk about movie, it's making, and their relationships with the woman herself.

"Tura!" is streaming now on many platforms. For more information, you can check out the movie's website.

Why? Episode 400- American Treasure Tour

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0400

The American Treasure Tour in Oaks, Pennsylvania is unlike any other museum or display you've ever seen. We'd try to describe it, but we really can't. Best to let someone who works there explain it all to you.

For more information, check out their website, or you can follow them on Facebook.

Why? Episode 399- Adult Content Creator Naomi Noel

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Naomi Noel recently made headlines in an interview where she said that she made $12,000 a month with her feet pictures.

Of course, there is more to Naomi, and we get into all of it. For more information, you can find all of Naomi's links at All My Links.

Why? Episode 398- Martin Popoff on Kiss in 76

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Enjoy this special episode from our sister show, "Rock n' Roll Grad School."

Martin Popoff has a new book out. If that hasn't got your putting on your coat and heading out to your nearest bookstore, you clearly don't know Martin's work. But, if you don't, the new book is about Kiss in 1976- an important year in the band's history. "Kiss 76" is available right now from Motor Books.

The book isn't your typical "coffee table" book. It's a feast for your senses. Martin takes readers on a journey through time to track not only the band during the iconic year, but also a whole lot of everything else that made 50 years ago one for the ages.

Our chat with Martin is always filled with interesting information for diehard and casual music fans alike. It's like being seated at a great dinner party.

You may ask, "Does the world really need another KISS book?" The answer is unequivocally, "Yes, it needed this one."

With photos rarely seen anywhere else and chock full of great facts, you won't be disappointed. Luke and Heidi have been talking about it for weeks.

To get a copy for yourself, visit your local bookstore or order one wherever you buy your books.

Why? Episode 397- Polyamory with author Courtney Boyer

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Courtney Boyer was trying to figure out what was going on in her life when she realized she was polyamorous. What is polyamory? Is that you? How do you figure it out? Courtney has written about her journey in the new book Opened, available anywhere you get books.

For more information or to schedule a coaching session, check out her website.

Why? Episode 396- The Kelley House Museum, home of Murder, She Wrote

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0400

You'll recognize Mendocino, California by sight- but you'll probably better know it as Cabbot Cove, home of best-selling mystery writer Jessica Fletcher from Murder, She Wrote.

The Kelley House Museum is dedicated to keeping the history of Mendocino alive, partly through the celebration of the classic TV show. We sat down with Anne Semans, director of the Kelley House for a wonderful history lesson.

For more information on the Kelley House Museum, check out their website, or follow them on Facebook.

Why? Episode 395- AVN Awards Host Abigaiil Morris

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Getting to the stage of the AVN Awards for any performer is a big deal. But hosting? Well, that's an whole other level. Abigaiil Morris just finished hosting the 2026 awards. And considering what she had to go through, that's quite the accomplishment.

For more information on Abigaiil, check out her website, or follow her on Instagram.

Why? Episode 394- Match Game 101

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0500

Did you ever wonder what was going on behind the scenes at Match Game? Or what the relationship between Brett and Charles really was like? Thankfully, A Ashley Hoff as written the definitive history of one of the greatest game shows of all time. "Match Game 101" is published by Castle TNT Press. You can follow Ashley on Instagram.

Plus, a special appeal to US Women's Hockey gold medalist Aerin Frankel to join us to talk salad.

Why? Episode 393- Professional Pillow Fighting

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0500

It's a sport we've all had experience with. But this take on pillow fighting is something you may not be ready for.

And before you go down that path of ladies at sleepovers, let us say this is an all out battle of athleticism, in the ring.

With competitors from around the globe and in varying weight classes, The PMC brings a new form of fighting and entertainment together for events that are drawing fans around the world.

The pros are made up of UFC fighters and athletes from an array of sports, but they've also made it a point to ensure all can participate. Amateurs and kids can get in on the action as well, with opportunities for all.

The PFC is quickly becoming an ESPN favourite and we, of course, had to find out how we too could get in on the action.

We spoke to PFC founder Steve Williams on how the sport began, the strategies to great fighting, and who he thinks would win between Heidi and Luke. You know this fight is happening one day and feathers will be flying! (Not from the actual PFC pillows though, those are far more hardcore)

Put on your PJs, have a listen, and get ready for the action.

For more information, check out the PFC website. To get right into the action, check out some of their key fights on their YouTube channel.

Why? Episode 392- The Tuneless Choir

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0500

Singing is a great thing to do, even if you aren't great at it. Really. Don't believe us? Listen to Nadine, the creator and organizer of the Tuneless Choir.

Ever been told you've got a lot of enthusiasm, but you just aren't suited for singing? Has the hook come out at karaoke night dragging you off the stage amidst what you thought was the greatest rendition of Wannabe by the Spice Girls?

If your joy of singing has been quelched by musical purists, then we have the answer for you.

Our chat with Nadine reminds us that we are all great singers and the health benefits of singing in a group, whether you're on pitch or not.

The Tuneless Choir welcomes everyone to join in and rock out to songs like Bohemian Rhapsody with full force and enthusiasm with no judgement or cringing.

This choir is designed to celebrate the pure joy of singing together and it has taken off on such a level that the choir is singing at major music festivals. Countries around the world are even looking to have their own Tuneless Choirs.

Listening to the joy in Nadine's voice, you'll be hard pressed not to get why this is possibly the greatest idea ever conceived.

All are welcome to join. Yes, even those who can sing well, but be warned, if you're too good you're definitely not getting a solo.

For more information, you can check out their website, or you can follow them on Facebook.

Why? Episode 391- Golden Child Skin Care

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0500

Everyone is looking for quality skincare that won't interfere with their skin regimen... how do you find it and how do you design it? Thankfully we have Genevieve Dolan, the creator of Golden Child Skincare.

Does the world need more skincare products? Absolutely, yes. But what would make someone want to dive into this seemingly saturated market? Genevieve shares her story on what inspired her to create a skin-care system that's natural, full of botanicals, and designed to support sensitive skin.

Genevieve gets real with how we all know deep inside we'll never consistently use a 10-step system, and why she has a simple 3-steps.

She's down to earth and her journey to entrepreneurship is fascinating. Plus, her products sound absolutely delicious for your skin and soul.

Have a listen.

For more information and to order, check out their website.

Why? Episod 390- Slippery Stairs

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0500

It's the newest sport that's sweeping the nation- slippery stairs. Like the best athletic pursuits, it is charmingly simple, but frustratingly complicated. Thankfully we have Paul Higgins, the mastermind behind Slippery Stairs to explain all.

Slippery Stairs has taken the world by storm and is one of the most popular sports to hit ESPN8 the Ocho.

With events across the world and new challenges being added all the time, this sport is limitless in its climb to the top.

Of course, Heidi and Luke are ready to take each other on, and are already strategizing on their takedowns. If you haven't experienced the marvel that is this race, let us explain. Not only do competitors need to make their way up the truly slippery stairs, as they ascend there are items being thrown at them from the top to avoid, along with fellow climbers attempting to take them down.

It is an intense, hilarious, and sometimes frustrating competition that everyone can get on board with.

We asked Paul some inside tips for climbing, as well as how he conceived of creating this as a sport. It's a great conversation and an epic tale that's fascinating, fun. His story is also the perfect reminder of why we do what we do and that truly anything is possible.

For more information, check out their website, or the Athletes in Motion Sports TV website.

Why? Episode 389- Naked Fund-Raising Calendar

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0500

How do you raise money for your community when it's facing a budget shortage? Get naked, of course! To order your copy of the calendar, check out their website or follow them on Facebook.

Before you get your knickers in a bunch, there's nothing lewd or dirty about this calendar. No actual nudity is shown.

The calendar features fun, cheeky photos and is all done in the spirit of fun and fundraising.

Conceived to raise money for snow removal in their small town of Lakeview. OR, the Outback Naked Calendar came to be thanks to two women with a crazy idea.

We spoke to one of the creators, Margot Dodd, about what it took to get people to take it all off for a cause (with strategically placed props hiding the naughty bits).

Margot was a delight to talk to and the calendar has been flying off the shelves. It's gained so much attention that CBS News even did a feature on them. Thanks to some international friends, the calendar has now been sent out globally to fans. Most importantly, they've raised their initial fundraising goal and the 2027 Calendar is already in the works.

This homage to the film Calendar Girls has created an all new story for the ages of a community rallying together in a unique way for what's important. Even some of the. biggest naysayers have come around after seeing the finished product.

We love this story and the calendar itself is proudly hanging in our offices!

Why? Episode 388- Craig Shemin on Jim Henson's "Sam & Friends"

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0500

Created while Kermit was still a tadpole, "Sam & Friends" was a program that Jim Henson produced alongside his future wife Jane in the 1960s. That program led to the creation of the Muppets, clearly one of the greatest artistic achievements of the last century, if not longer.

Craig Shemin, who has worked with the Henson company for decades, has written two books detailing this important moment in Henson's creative birth. "Sam & Friends: The Story of Jim Henson's First Television Show" and "The Sam & Friends Script Book" fill in gaps of Henson knowledge a lot of us are lacking.

Throughout our conversation we dive deep into not only the "Sam & Friends" story and its evolution into all things Muppet, but we even got into some inside scoop on what life is like with Miss. Piggy, something Craig knows a lot about. As well as what kind of treasures Jim's archives might hold.

Our interview with Craig is irresistible for anyone who's ever been a fan of anything Henson whether it be "Sesame Street", "Fraggle Rock", "Labyrinth", "Muppet Christmas Carol" or "The Dark Crystal."

For more information on the books, check out the website, and for more information on Craig, check out his website.

Why? Episode 387- Art Model and Author DH Jonathan

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0500

Dan Hawkins, also known as DH Johnathan is about to release his newest book, "Propagation" on January 20th. We talked with Dan about the book and his lifetime spent working as a nude art model.

For more information, check out Dan's author website.

Why? Episode 386- Transforming Your Life with Cassie Sobelton

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0500

What better way to kick off a new year than by looking at how we can reset and find balance in our lives? We talked with Health and Wellness Expert, Cassie Sobelton, about her new book The Power Reset, what inspired her to reset aspects of her own life, and how we can incorporate simple but impactful changes into our lives.

Cassie shares her story of overcoming seemingly insurmountable health challenges and the continued work she does through spirituality, boundaries, self-care, and continued growth and experience.. She's a highly respected pro in this field, but her conversation and writing is relatable in a way that even the "non-believers" may find something they can gain from it. Let's be honest, she put up with our co-hosts and even had tips that Luke and Heidi could incorporate into dealing with each other. Anyone who can help two co-hosts with zero boundaries with one another except state lines and the internet has to be the best there is!

It's a great conversation, a lot of fun, and an inspiring way to kick of 2026! Have a listen and enjoy!

For more information including a free sample chapter of Cassie's book, check out Cassie's website.

For information on Cassie's wellness products including the sports cream that Heidi claims, saved her life, (she may be a bit dramatic, but we do believe her when she says it's great! ) Click here.

You can also follow her on instagram @cassiesobelton and Facebook at Facebook.com/cassiesobelton.

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Why? Episode 385- The Best of 2025

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0500

With the year drawing to a close, we take a review over the 52 episodes and the new friends we've made along the way.

Why? Episode 384- Happy Christmas

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0500

As we wrap up 2025, we play some of our favorite holiday music that you likely can't find elsewhere. Enjoy and we'll be back next week with a look at the year in Why!

Why? Episode 383- Cherie DeVille, "The Internet's Step-mom"

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Cherie DeVille achieved fame through her work in adult films. But it's not all sunshine and hot tubs in the world of porn, and Cherie has learned how to successfully navigate a difficult industry and to not only come out on top, but has done so repeatedly. For more information on Cherie, you can check out her website or you can follow her on Instragram and TikTok.

Why? Episode 382- The Titanic on VHS Museum

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Titanic is, of course, one of the biggest movies of all time. And when it was released on VHS, it probably goes without saying, it was a really big deal. And for one man, it was life changing. Josh started collecting copies of the movie on VHS. First one, than a few more and... well, he's at 5,000 and still growing.

And now Josh has opened a museum dedicated to Titanic on VHS. Want to visit? Send in your copy on VHS? Check out Josh's Facebook page, or follow him on Instagram.

Why? Episode 381- Divorce Coach Meagan Norris

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Divorce is difficult, no matter how you look at it. But what if you could come out of the process with a positivity and an outlook that would put you in a better place for both financial and emotional success? That's what Meagan Norris is offering. Meagan is a divorce coach. And she's been helping women reshape the narrative and succeed. For more information, you can check out her website, or follow her on Instagram.

Why? Episode 380- Mothership Connected

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Seth Neblett's book Mothership Connected is a fascinating, first-hand look inside the mothership that was Parliament Funkadelic. (As well as the side projects The Parlets, The Brides of Funkenstein and many more.) Seth tells the stories of the women who were part of this one-of-a-kind group and allows them to explain their role. It's a fascinating read and easily one of the best music books of the year.

Mothership Connected is available right now from University of Texas press.

Why? Episode 379- Competitive Scrabble

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Looking to take your gaming to a new level? Try competitive Scrabble. The game is growing in popularity and the competition to find the best is riveting. We sat down with John Chew, the CEO of the North American Scrabble Players Association to learn about the history of the game and how it has grown to what it is today.

For more information about the North American Scrabble Players Association and their tournaments, you can check out their website.

Why? Episode 378- David Leaf on Brian Wilson

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Brian Wilson was a musical genius. And a new re-issue highlights his brilliance in live performance. And if there's anyone who can talk about Wilson's work it's David Leaf. He's literally written the book (well, 2, actually) as well as made the movie about Brian. Brian Wilson- Live at The Roxy Theater is available right now wherever you get your music.

Why? Episode 377- Alternative for the Masses

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0500

1990's rock was an exciting time. Nevermind (no pun intended) Nirvana, what about Sonic Youth, Dinosaur Jr, The Meat Puppets, Primus and Smashing Pumpkins?

In his new book, Greg Prato gets the full story of the era from the folks who lived it. Alternative for the Masses by Greg Prato is available right now wherever you get your books.

Why? Episode 376- The Victorian Obsession With Death Pt 2

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Paul Gambino is an expert in mourning, death and all sorts of macabre interests. And in his new book, Beyond the Veil: The Victorian Obsession with Death and Mourning is a fascinating look at one era's way of remembering those who have passed.

Beyond the Veil is available right now wherever you get your books. For more information and to learn about Paul and his other books, check out his website.

Why? Episode 375- The Victorian Obsession With Death Pt 1

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Beyond the Veil is available right now wherever you get your books. For more information and to learn about Paul and his other books, check out his website.

Why? Episode 374- Actress/Therapist Ivy Austin

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0400

We know we say it all the time, but Ivy Austin is really a fascinating person. From her work on Broadway, in film and on television, to her work as a therapist in New York, she has led a unique and memorable life.

For more information on her acting, you can check out her website, and for more information on her work as a therapist, check out her Couples Therapy website.

Why? Episode 373- Spice Girls Collector Liz West

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Liz West has the greatest collection of Spice Girls items in the world. Don't believe us? Ask the Guinness folks. And if that isn't enough, some of what she got from the Spice Girls has inspired her art career. To get a glimpse of her collection, check out her website. And if you want to see some of her really fascinating art on display, check out her art site.

Why? Episode 372- Princess Cheyenne: Boston's Most Famous Stripper

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Lucy Wightman has had a fascinating life. From learning how to become a dancer at The Naked i, located in Boston's infamous Combat Zone, to a relationship with Cat Stevens to so much more. And now she's written it all up in her book, Princess Cheyenne: My Life as Boston's Most Famous Stripper, now available wherever you get your books.

For more information, you can follow her on Facebook, or visit her website.

Why? Episode 371- Tom Huddleston on the World of David Lynch

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Film writer Tom Huddleston has penned a great tribute and study of filmmaker, artist and musician David Lynch. Huddleston's David Lynch: His Work, His World is the perfect coffee table book to unnerve your friends, but also a wonderful delve into all things Lynch. David Lynch: His Work, His World is available now, wherever you get books.

Why? Episode 370- ERB-1 Touring a Nuclear Power Plant

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Did you know the first town lit by nuclear power in the US was in Idaho? Did you know you could tour the reactor that created this amazing advancement in power? We talk with Shelly Norman, the senior tour advisor from the EBR-1 Museum (that's the Experimental Breeder Reactor if you're not into the whole brevity thing). For more information, check out their website.

Why? Episode 369-Talking Taylor Swift

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0400

With Taylor Swift's 12th record about to come out, we thought it a good time to explore what has come before with two experts- Kase Wickman and Moira McAvoy, co-authors (with Joanna Weiss), authors of Taylor Swift: Album by Album, available from Motorbooks wherever you get your books on October 10th.

Why? Episode 368- Escaping from Vault Disney

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Tony Goldmark is known for creating in-depth videos exploring all aspects of the Walt Disney corporation, from its theme parks to it's cinematic output. And with his podcast, Escape from Vault Disney, Tony and his guests visit another film available on Disney+.

You can find Escape from Vault Disney wherever you get your podcasts and you can find Tony's Some Jerk with a Camera videos on YouTube under @TonyGoldmark.

Why? Episode 367- Catching up

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 13:00:00 -0400

No guests, just conversation. Where is this whole thing going? Do we have good stuff upcoming? What do you think, slappy?

Why? Episode 366 Searching for David Ackles

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0400

To hear David Ackles is to be enchanted by his voice and his music. And, for some reason, he never reached a large audience. Now, a new book by Mark Brend, Down River: In Search of David Ackles, tells his whole story. The book is available wherever you get your books on August 22nd.

Why? Episode 365- The Solve-Along Murder, She Wrote

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Everybody loves Jessica Fletcher. And now, with Tim Benzie as your guide, he'll bring you on an evening's worth of entertainment with his "Solve-Along Murder, She Wrote." Will the audience solve the crime before Jessica? And why is she so popular after decades of leaving the air?

For more information about Tim and to find out where he is performing, (and hopefully it's near you, you can check out his website, or follow him on Instagram- @solvealongmurdershewrote).

Why? Episode 364- A Legally Naked State of the Union

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0400

A couple of weekends ago, the Association for Nude Recreation held their annual convention, celebrating all things in non-sexual nudity. We teamed up with former guest John Jankowski from We Bare All, a group in Wisconsin, who we've been working with to produce their podcast... Where do things stand today?

Why? Episode 363- Beatles Hairdresser Leslie Cavendish

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0400

There's knowing The Beatles, and then there's knowing how George likes his hair done. Leslie Cavendish is one of the few people in the world who can lay claim to the latter. And in his book, "The Cutting Edge," he details his work and friendship with the Fab Four. From The Magical Mystery Tour to the final performance on the top of Apple Records, Leslie was there.

"The Cutting Edge," by Leslie Cavendish is available right now from Barnes and Noble, and you can get signed copies (and learn more about his personal guided tours of London) from his website.

Why? Epsiode 362- Family rock n' roll with Secret Monkey Weekend

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Who doesn't like a good rock and pop record? Well, the family (take that, Partridges) that makes up Secret Monkey Weekend do, and their new record, Lemon Drop Hammer proves it and then some.

For more information, check out their website.

Why? Episode 361- The Mascot Hall of Fame

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0400

We don't need to tell you how we feel about mascots in these parts. Thankfully, former close friend of the Philadelphia Phanatic feels the same. We talk with Dave about the Hall of Fame and his experience in the sports mascot business.

For more information about the hall of fame, check out their website. And for more information about Dave and his work, check out his website.

Why? Episode 360- The art of stand-up comedy with JT Habersaat

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Stand-up comedy has to be one of the purest art forms. One person on a stage, armed only with their wits and their speed. How does someone do it? Why does someone do it?

Comedian JT Habersaat literally wrote the book on stand-up with his new "Doing Time- Comedians on Stage." The book is available July 8th from Jawbone Press. And for more info on JT, including tour dates, check out his website.

Why? Episode 359- Beatles Hairdresser Leslie Cavendish

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0400

"The Cutting Edge," by Leslie Cavendish is available right now from Barnes and Noble, and you can get signed copies (and learn more about his personal guided tours of London) from his website.

Why? Episode 358- Roger Rabbit Creator Gary K Wolf

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Gary K Wolf has created a bevy of characters that are beloved by generations of film fans and readers. We got to talk with Gary about how you create an iconic character (easy, right?), his writing process and the one thing he wishes he did when his first Roger Rabbit book came out.

For more information and to order copies of any of Gary's books, check out his website.

Why? Episode 357- Storyteller Satori Shakoor

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Satori Shakoor has had a fascinating life. From singing in Parliament, to being one of the Brides of Funkenstein, to her life as a mother and everything that has come after, Satori tells it all in her new concert film, "Confessions of a Menopausal Femme Fatale." It's a story only she can tell and she tells it wonderfully.

You can stream the film on Amazon, AppleTV and Google Play. For more information, check out Satori's website.

Why? Episode 356- Revolutionary Crawls and Events

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0400

What better way to learn about the early days of our country than with a drink in your hand? We talk with Marianne Rosato, creator and producer of the walks/crawls and Ben Franklin, who is one of the founding fathers you'll meet along the way.

For more information on events and to find out when the next one will be held, make sure to check out the website for Revolutionary Crawls and Events.

Why? Episode 355- Music Producer David Z

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0400

You may not know the name, but you know his sound. From his work as a member of Lipps, Inc, to producing with Prince to bands like Fine Young Cannibals and Big Head Todd and the Monsters, David Z has created a sound that, literally, everyone has danced to.

For more information on David and his fascinating career, check out his website.

Why? Episode 354- Furries

Mon, 26 May 2025 04:00:00 -0400

What is a furry? Who can be a furry? Are you a furry and you just don't know it? Flint and Camille from Anthro New England tell us all about the movement and why you may be a furry and not even know it.

Anthro New England is a yearly convention held in Boston, Massachusetts. Next year's convention is January 15th through the 18th. For more information, check out their website.

Why? Episode 353- I Know Catherine, the Log Lady

Mon, 19 May 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Catherine Coulson was an artist, in all senses of the word. Most people probably know her from her role as The Log Lady on David Lynch and Mark Frost's TV show, Twin Peaks. But that is just the beginning of Catherine's story.

I Know Catherine, the Log Lady, is a fascinating look at a fascinating character and a study of reaching the end of your life with grace and love. The film is now playing at theaters across the country. For more information about screening dates and locations and to pre-order a copy of the film, check out the film's website.

Why? Episode 352- Sex-O-Rama music

Mon, 12 May 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week, we talk with one of the members of Sex-O-Rama. (What's his real name? What's his band name... we find out!) The group was originally formed to create fake porn music for folks to enjoy and, shockingly, things got out of hand and now they're onto volume 5.

Sex-O-Rama volume 5: Invaders from the Pleasure Planet is available wherever you get your music. For more information, check out their website.

Why? Episode 351- The Antique Vibrator Museum

Mon, 05 May 2025 04:00:00 -0400

They say those who don't learn the past are doomed to repeat it. What does that have to do with our guest? We're not really sure. Dr. Carol Queen, phd is the curator of the Antique Vibrator Museum, located inside the Good Vibrations store in San Francisco. (Other branches of the chain have some items on display too.) What is the history of the vibrator? Did it seriously involve steam power? Where do things go from here? Dr Queen has all the answers.

To plan your visit to the Antique Vibrator Museum, check out their website.

Why? Episode 350- Underseas Exploration and Living

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Ian Koblick has made a living exploring underwater and learning about how man can live there. From his building of habitats for NASA to turning one habitat into an undersea hotel, Ian has devoted his life to sharing his love of the ocean with everyone.

For more information about Ian's work, you can check out the Marine Resources Development Foundation's website. And to learn more about Jules' Undersea Lodge and to book your stay, check out their website.

Why? Episode 349- The History of Nudist Films

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Exploitation films are always a fascinating study. And some of the most fascinating movies are nudist film. Mark Storey has writing a fascinating history of the naturist film in the book, Cinema au Naturel.

Cinema au Naturel is available right now wherever you get your books.

Why? Episode 348- The Buckland Museum of Witchcraft

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Located in Cleveland, Ohio, the Buckland Museum of Witchcraft offers visitors a fascinating into the world of witchcraft and the history of the practice. Staffed and run by well educated folks, the museum offers both practitioners and non-practitioners a look into the history through objects and artifacts.

We sat down with museum director Steven Intermill to learn more about the museum.

For more information, you can find the museum online.

Why? Episode 347- Grant Philipo from the Las Vegas Showgirl Museum Pt 2

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0400

As promised, here is part two of our fascinating conversation with Grant Philipo, the founder of the Las Vegas Showgirl Museum. How fascinating? There was so much of it, we had to split it up into two episodes. Though, when you hear Grant's story, you will be aching to see his incredible work on display at the museum.

For more information on the museum and to schedule your visit, check out their website.

Why? Episode 346- Falling asleep with Northwoods Baseball

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Mr King is the creator of a fascinating podcast designed for you to not stay awake for the whole thing. Calling back baseball on the radio, The Northwoods Baseball Network is designed to help you fall asleep- no big hits, no exciting plays. It's a wonderful way to drift off to dreamland.

You can find Northwoods Baseball wherever you get your podcasts or you can check out their website.

Why? Episode 345- Grant Philipo from the Las Vegas Showgirl Museum

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week is a fascinating conversation with Gran Philipo, the founder of the Las Vegas Showgirl Museum. How fascinating? There was so much of it, we had to split it up into two episodes. (And we barely touch on the museum in the first part.) Though, when you hear Grant's story, you will be aching to see his incredible work on display at the museum.

For more information on the museum and to schedule your visit, check out their website.

Why? Episode 344- The Bumper Sticker Bandit

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Isn't annoying when you see someone who parks so terribly, it makes life harder for everyone else? Well, there is a vigilante out there, placing insulting bumpers tickers on offending vehicles. He's called The Bumper Sticker Bandit and his stickers are now turning up all over the world.

If you want to see some of his work, you can find him on TikTok and Instagram and you can order bumper stickers of your own directly from his website.

Why? Epsiode 343- The Aqualillies

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0400

The Aqualillies are a unique performance group, combining classic water ballet with a much more modern choreography. From movies and TV to weddings and other parties, there is no better way to celebrate than pool-side with synchronized swimming.

For more information, check out their website.

Why? Episode 342- Peace Advocate and Author Gabriel Meyer

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Gabriel Meyer has spent his life working towards encouraging peace between everyone. And in his new novel, On a Verge of a Verb, Meyer loosely adapts his own story into a tale of working for peace across the globe.

Needless to say, it's a fascinating conversation when you get Gabriel talking about his experiences and what he's learned along the way. On the Verge of a Verb is available right now wherever you get your books. For information, check out his website.

Why? Episode 341- Music Insider Paul Rappaport

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0500

For almost 30 years Paul Rappaport worked at Columbia records in the promotion department. That job led him to crossing paths with Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Pink Floyd and many others. His new book (out April 1st) is called "Gliders Over Hollywood" and is available for pre-order.

Why? Episode 340- Music Engineer/Producer Glenn Berger

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0500

In another lifetime, Dr Glenn Berger found himself working at A&R studios in New York, along such music legends as Paul Simon, James Brown, Phoebe Snow and Bob Fosse.

In his memoir, Never Say No to a Rock Star, Glenn recounts some of the most memorable moments in a career filled with them, at a time when musicians ruled the earth.

Why? Episode 339- Naked Filmmaking with JP Riley

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0500

JP Riley has had quite the life so far, and he's not even close to done. After making the hit independent film Act Naturally in 2011, he's back with the follow-up, Act Supernaturally. On top of writing, directing and producing, (he's also worked on Eddie Murphy's Axel F and the video for Taylor Swift's "You Need to Calm Down") he also wrote the music with his band Nak'd Lion.

Act Supernaturally is scheduled for release in the US on April 20th. (We'll share links when they're available.) And you can find Nak'd Lion's music wherever you get your music.

Why? Epsiode 338- Boxing Ref Jack Reiss

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Refereeing any sport is hard, but boxing? You try keeping a level head and pay attention to the right things with the lights, the judges, the cameras, the crowd... oh, and two people hitting each other very hard.

Jack has taken his experience and is helping prepare other referees to be ready to go when the bell rings. For more information on Jack and Sole Arbiter, his ref training school, check out his website.

Why? Epsiode 337- Dog Sledding

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Alex Therriault might have it all figured out. He's turned his love of animals and dog sledding into a successful business and racing career.

Coming from a family of dog sledders, Alex still races and now offers tours and trips for people looking to learn more about these animals and the sport, or just to have a unique weekend in Maine.

For more information, check out the Ultimate Dog Sledding Experience website or follow them on Instagram.

Why? Episode 336- The Unique History of Baseball Rubbing Mud

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0500

It's the only mud that's been used in major league baseball for almost 75 years- there's something about Lena Blackburne's Baseball Rubbing Mud.

We talked with Jim Bintliff, the third-generation of his family to farm, harvest and supply rubbing mud for so many professional teams and sports. (The NFL also uses the mud too!)

For more information, (and to order your own mud,) check out their website.

Plus, has AI come for our jobs?

Why? Episode 335- Tribute: Saturday Morning Cartoons' Greatest Hits

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0500

This week it's another installment in "Tribute: A Tribute to Tributes," where we discuss another tribute album. This time it's one of the most 90's tributes ever made- featuring Liz Phair, Sublime, Sponge, Matthew Sweet and the Butthole Surfers, "Saturday Morning Cartoons' Greatest Hits."

Why? Episode 334- New Year, Same Us

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Welcome to 2025. Please your wipe your feet.

This week we thought we'd take a moment, sans guests, to discuss the pressing issues of the moment- namely, the new movie about Bob Dylan. And because we're us, there is a tangent or two, some beauty tips and references to the Titanic. Please enjoy.

Why? Episode 333- Redd Kross

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0500

When we started Why's sister podcast, Rock n' Roll Grad School, top of our dream list of guests was Redd Kross. We have been longtime fans of the band, and dreamed of discussing their work, along with that of Donny Osmond, Cheap Trick and the Velvet Underground with them. When it finally happened, it did not disappoint.

The legendary band Redd Kross started in the early 80’s when Steven McDonald was just 11 years old. Along with his big brother Jeff, Redd Kross has been carving their own unique path through rock music.

They've just released their 10th album (a double album), a memoir (Now You're One of Us) and a documentary (Born Innocent). We talked with Jeff and Steven about all of this. And which rock drummer would make the best hair dresser.

For more information on everything, check out the band's website.

Why? Episode 332- Christmas

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0500

It's our annual Christmas celebration, where we exchange gifts, complain and play music you probably haven't heard in a while. Enjoy!

Why? Episode 331- Naked Wanderings with Nick and Lins

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Several years ago, Nick and Lins decided to chuck it all and do what made them happy. And that was traveling around the world, exploring all the places for nudists to go and experience life. They've parlayed that love of naturism into a job, with a popular website, Patreon and YouTube page.

For more information, check out their website.

Why? Episode 330- Movie Madness in Portland, OR

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Movie Madness is a one-of-a-kind video store. Containing over 90,000 movies on a variety of formats, it is also the home to an amazing collection of film memorabilia. We talked with Matt Parnell, the the managing director and head curator for the store.

For more information, check out their website.

Why? Epsiode 329- Naked at the Museum

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0500

This week, our guests are from across the pond. As members of British Naturism, Ed and Keith worked together to organize a naked night at the Dorset Museum. And the event was a rousing success with amazing press coverage. (Ed and Keith had just finished up talking with the New York Times when we spoke.) We talked about the organization of the event and the response.

Why? Episode 328- The CDC Museum

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Wait... the CDC has a museum? They sure do. And it's a fascinating collection of items that show the width and breadth of the work the Centers for Disease Control has been doing for almost a century. We talked with Mary Hilpertshauser, the CDC Museum Collections Manager, about some of the unique items in the museums collection. (And there's show and tell!)

More more information and to plan your visit, check out the museum's website.

Why? Episode 327- Ringmaster Johnathan Lee Iverson

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0500

We're not the first people to point out that Johnathan Lee Iverson did what so many of us have considered doing, but it's really true. As the ringmaster at Ringling Brothers, Barnum and Bailey, Johnathan Lee Iverson learned his craft from some of the most talented people in the business. Now, as part of Circus Vargas Johnathan is helping the next generation see how it's done.

For more information on Circus Vargas and to see Johnathan in person, check out their website.

Why? Episode 326- Theme Park Entertainment

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0500

When you want to talk theme park entertainment, you want to talk with Dewey Joe Beene. Starting as a teenager at Six Flags in Oklahoma City, he took to the stage, performing multiple shows a day, and now as an adult, he's consulting and producing the show, bringing a performer's eye to making something that can enchant and entertain any age.

Why? Episode 325- The 501 Definitive Records of the '90s

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0500

What records define the '90s as a decade to be remembered? Is it NSync? Nirvana? What about hip-hop?

Thankfully, music writer and editor Gary Graff is here to muddy the water and start all sorts of disagreements with his new book, "501 Essential Albums of the '90s: The Music Fan's Definitive Guide," available November 5th from Motorbooks.

Why? Episode 324- Matthew Sweet

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Last week, the great musician Matthew Sweet suffered a stroke while on tour. Thankfully he will recover, but it will be a long hard road. A GoFundMe has been started to help raise money to cover the insane cost of the work he will have to go through.

We wanted to re-run out conversation with him because of his generosity with his time and his work. We are sure we didn't deserve it.

If you have a few bucks, please kick in to help him on the road to recovery.

Why Episode 323- Instagram Goalie Coho Connie

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0400

If you've seen Coho Connie's videos, you'll remember them. Between her great goaltending, she keeps things interesting with a one-of-a-kind running commentary that really has to be seen to be believed. (To say nothing of the crow she sometimes wears on her head.)

You can follow Connie on Instagram where she is @CohoConnie. And if you check out our YouTube page, we have a bonus video where Connie shows off her brand new helmet.

Why? Episode 322- Actor/Filmmaker Mark Finnell

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Actor and filmmaker Mark Finnell has had a fascinating career. We had the opportunity to talk with Mark prior to the screening of his documentary about Detroit performance artists Satori Circus screening at the Beaver Island Film Festival.

Why? Episode 321- DJ Lance Rock

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0400

What can we say about the great DJ Lance Rock? He's great. From his work on Yo! Gabba Gabba! To his work behind the turntables, Lance is wonderful. And we had a great conversation with him about all the joys of music.

Why? Episode 320- Author Pete Thron

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Best-selling writer Pete Thron knows of what he speaks. As a police officer in New York city, he wracked up over 100 solo arrests. Now, he's back with his latest #1 best seller. In Deep Cover, Pete tells the riveting story of two rival motorcycle clubs and the battle between good and bad. Deep Cover is now available on Amazon. For more information, you can follow Pete on Facebook.

Why? Episode 319- The Art of Gary Grimshaw

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Gary Grimshaw was a concert poster artist (among other things) and is perhaps best known for his work promoting shows at Detroit's legendary Grande Ballroom. We sat down with his widow, Laura, to talk about his art and the unforgettable music.

Why? Episode 318- Author Ross Warner on Cheap Trick

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0400

If you're like us, you need more Cheap Trick in your life. Thankfully, Ross Warner is here with his new book, American Standard: Cheap Trick from the bars to the Budokan and Beyond. It's a look at one of the great American bands and tries to sort fact from fiction. Ross is a passionate guy when it comes to pop culture, so, of course, we got along like a house on fire.

American Standard: Cheap Trick from the bars to the Budokan and Beyond is available right now from Backbeat books.

Why? Episode 317- Frogmore Stew

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0400

We say we're not a political podcast. And we're not. But, this time of year, let's be honest, it's something a lot of people are talking about. And for those in South Carolina who are interested in the candidates and the issues, they have a new podcast to help guide the way. Frogmore Stew with Grace Cowan talks with the candidates and covers the issues in a way to help us see where we're going- by looking to where we come from.

You can find Frogmore Stew wherever you get your podcasts. For more information, check out their website or follow them on Facebook.

Our new show- Tribute: A Tribute to Tributes

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Here we go again, starting a new music show to go along with all our other shows.

"Tribute- A Tribute to Tributes" is a study, analysis and celebration of the tribute record. From Leonard Cohen to Victoria Williams to Big Star to Frank Sinatra- we'll look at them all.

Each episode, we'll break down and talk through another tribute record and decide whether it's worth listening (or re-listening) to. Here's our first episode, all about the Carpenters tribute record, "If I Were A Carpenter."

Why? Episode 315- The Knoxville Sunsphere

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0400

First off, there is no place really like the Sunsphere. Built for the World's Fair, the sphere is a unique landmark with loads to see.

And, it's just going to get better and better. For more information (and tickets) check out the Sunsphere's website. Or you can follow them on Facebook.

Hey, let's all go to the Sunsphere!

Why? Episode 314- The Beaver Island Film Festival

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Beaver Island is one of the most beautiful places in the US, with fascinating stories to boot.

This year, the island is kicking off their inaugural film festival. We sat down with reluctant executive producer (and film festival producer) John Sauve to discuss a few of the films playing at the festival.

Why? Episode 313- The story of the Grande Ballroom

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0400

For music fans, the legend of the Grande Ballroom looms large. The room played host to important shows by band such as The MC5, The Who, Iggy and the Stooges and BB King.

While it's not longer a music venue, the room is an iconic part of the history of Detroit music. We talked with Tony D’Annunzio, director of the documentary, Louder Then Love: The Grande Ballroom Story, which is screening as part of the Beaver Island Film Festival, September 21st, 2024.

For more information on the film, check out the movie's website. And for more information about the Beaver Island Film Festival, check out their page on Facebook.

Why? Episode 312- Naked French with Lisa St Lou

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0400

We've talked with Lisa St Lou before and had a blast doing so. Her newest album, "Oh Dang," is out September 9th. But if that wasn't enough reason to reconnect with Lisa, she also has wonderful Instagram series called Naked French that was too good an opportunity to let pass by without discussing.

You can find Naked French on Instagram @torandlisa, and you can follow Lisa on Facebook for more information about the record, live shows and so much more. Oh dang!

Why? Epsiode 311- Rock Cat Rescue

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Every cat needs a good home. And what better way to remind people of this fact than by showing off some of their amazing talents?

The Rock Cats Rescue and the Amazing Acro-Cat are on the road, showing audiences all across the US the amazing, fascinating and, let's be honest, sometimes a little difficult world of cats. Samantha Martin has been training and exhibiting the talents of these amazing cats for almost 20 years.

They're scheduled to bring the show to Arlington, Massachusetts in August, but there are many other dates and cities on the tour itinerary.

For more information (and to adopt an amazing cat of your own) check out their website, or follow them on Facebook.

Why? Episode 310- Cat Tours

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 04:00:00 -0400

You've likely seen the story in the news and wanted to learn more- a group of dedicated cat lovers in Minneapolis have been gathering every year since 2017 to walk around the their neighborhood and look at cats. That's it. Just look at cats. We talked with John Edwards from Wedge LIVE! about how he created the tour and just why he does it.

Why? Episode 309- Short film The Funeral Photographer

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Sometimes the best short films leave you thinking and pondering long after the film is over. Mark Strauss' film The Funeral Photographer does all of that in more. The film is showing as part of the Beaver Island Film Festival, but can also be streamed right now.

Famous Last Words- Season 2 is here!

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Season two of our other podcast Final Last Words is now out there. Who do we have on the docket? Well, a few weeks ago, we gave a sneak preview with the Wilson Mizner story and this week, we tell the story of Lavina Fisher. Check it out!

Why? Epsiode 307- Robin Taylor Zander

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 04:00:00 -0400

If there's anything more American than great pop rock, than we don't know it. And if there's anything better than Cheap Trick when you're talking great pop rock, well, you need to get your head examined. And when it comes to Cheap Trick, the second generation of insanely wonderful songwriting is emerging.

You know Robin Taylor Zander's dad's work, but wait until you check out Robin. His debut record is a beautiful album, and you know us, we aren't going to lie to you about this sort of thing. So whether you're out by the pool this 4th, or just trying to stay cool, cue up Robin's record and enjoy. You can thank us later.

“The Distance” is available to stream now. Check out Robin’s website or follow him on Facebook.

Rock n Roll Grad School #181 Noel on whether there's More To Life Than Dancing

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Listeners know how we feel about the band Sparks and we had a rare opportunity that we wanted to share with everyone we've ever met.

You may not have heard of Noel, but if you listen to this show, you've definitely heard us sing the praises of two people who wrote and produced a record for her.

Ron and Russell Mael from Sparks made "Is There More To Life Than Dancing?" for Noel shortly after completing their "No. 1 Song in Heaven" album.

Noel's record is more of the same great dance music. (Good luck getting "Dancing is Dangerous" out of your head after you hear it.) Thankfully, the record is now available again on both CD and vinyl AND it's got bonus tracks.

We talked with the rather private Noel about the whole experience and so much more in this fascinating interview.

"Is There More To Life Than Dancing?" is available right now wherever you get your music, and you can order directly from the Sparks website as well.

Why? Episode 305- Marqueetown

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Everyone has a moment where they can try to do something special for those around them. For Bernie Rosendahl, it was working to rescue and restore an important part of history in Marquette, Michigan. And the new film, Marqueetown tells of Bernie's quest and why it's so special.

We talked with filmmakers Joe Beyer and Jordan Anderson on the hows and whys of Bernie's story became their first feature-length film.

Marqueetown is screening as part of the Beaver Island Film Festival this September. For more information and screening dates, check out their website.

Why? Epsiode 304- Corn Hole Champion Rosie Streker

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Rosie Streker is a force of nature. Going from a career as a teacher, Rosie is onto her next chapter in life- Corn Hole champion. (Three times, might we add.) In the middle of the season, Rosie took the time to talk with us about her career and offer a few tips for the next time you find yourself picking up a beanbag.

For more information, you can follow Rosie on Facebook or you can follow her on Instagram.

Why? Episode 303- Children's Book Author Andrew Shaffer

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 04:00:00 -0400

When we last talked with Andrew Shaffer, he was talking about his series of mysteries starring Joe Biden and Barack Obama. Now, Andrew's taking his twisted sort of genius to the next logical step- children's books. "The Secret Pet" (no spoilers, please) is a great gift for any child, or just to leave out on your coffee table and worry visitors.

"The Secret Pet" is available wherever you get your books. For more information you can check out Andrew's website, or you can follow him on Facebook.

Why? Episode 302- The Forest County Bigfoot Festival

Mon, 27 May 2024 04:00:00 -0400

What better reason to get a huge group of people together other than to celebrate and hunt Bigfoot? That's what they do every year in Forest County, Pennsylvania and the festival is bringing large numbers of people to this small town.

Not interested in hunting? Don't worry, there's more than enough to keep you busy even if you aren't tracking the elusive creature.

This year's festival is being held June 7th, 8th and 9th in Marienville, PA. For more information, check out the festival's website or follow them on Facebook.

Why? Episode 301- Jewelry Maker Kimberly Charron

Mon, 20 May 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Our show is all about passions and, talking with Kim Charron, you instantly get a sense of her passion. Kim is a jewelry maker and she walks us through how she turned pro and all the work that goes into creating a unique, memorable and wearable work of art.

And if that's not enough, we also talk about Billy Possum!

Why? Episode 300- Cellos & Metallica

Mon, 13 May 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Maybe you're closed minded and don't think cellos and the music of Metallica go together. Well, the folks who make up Apocalyptica, the all-cello quartet who first came to fame with their all-Metallica covers album are back at it with their newest release- a vol. 2 of Metallica songs. And this time they're even joined on one track by bassist Robert Trujillo.

For more information and to order your copy of "Apocalyptica Plays Metallica Vol. 2," check out their website. Or you can follow them on Facebook.

Why? Epsiode 299- Famous Last Words season two is coming!

Mon, 06 May 2024 04:00:00 -0400

You think we're just lounging around in robes, enjoying the nice weather? Think again, buster. We're in the podcast salt mines, making content. In that spirit, we thought we'd give you a sneak preview of what we've been up to- making season 2 of our show Famous Last Words. Hope you enjoy it. (And there's soon to be more where that came from!)

Why? Episode 298- Celebrating Earth Day and "Think!" with Sheri Miller

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Yes, Earth Day was a week or so ago, but, really, shouldn't every day be Earth Day? (We're sure we've heard that somewhere before...) No matter what day it is, it's a good time to talk with music star and children's author Sheri Miller. Along with her mother, Linda Miller, Sheri wrote a book, called "Honoring Our Planet- Think!" which is out now. We talked about conservation, gratitude and so much more.

"Honoring Our Planet- Think!" is available right now, wherever you get your books, from Newman Springs Publishing

Why? Episode 297- The Gathering of the Kyles

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Are you named Kyle? Do you know someone named Kyle? The city of Kyle, Texas is holding their annual Gathering of the Kyles, where they will try to set the world record of the biggest gathering of people with the same name. How does one organize that many Kyles? What are the difficulties that come from that many Kyles in the same place? (And if you're not named Kyle, don't worry there's tons of activities for the Kyle-less.)

We talked with Rachel Sonnier, the Director of Communications for the city of Kyle about all the work that goes to making this festival what it is.

For more information, check out the Kyle Fest website.

Why? Episode 296- Tornado Tours

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0400

If you're looking for an unforgettable and unique way to see tornado, why not take a tour with Twisted Sky Tours? Traveling all around Tornado Alley, Ryan and Shanda will have you chasing storms like you're Helen Hunt.

We talked with them about how the tours work, how close you'll get and how astounding your slideshow will be when you get home.

For more information, you can check out their website or follow them on Facebook.

Why? Episode 295- The World Naked Bike Ride in Milwaukee

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0400

It’s become a yearly event that’s taking over- the World Naked Bike Ride. The Milwaukee, Wisconsin version of the ride is taking place June 22nd of this year. We spoke with John, the organizer of the event and the founder of We Bare All, a naturist community dedicated to holding events year round for people to enjoy while naked.

For more information, you can check out their website, follow them on Instagram or on Facebook.

Why? Episode 294- Twister City Roller Derby

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Roller Derby is for everyone. And if that wasn't great enough, it's making a comeback. We sat down with Cheyenne Riggs aka Professor Flex (no word the source of her professional accreditation, but it sounds badass,) to talk about the sport, and, in particular, the Twister City Derby.

For more information about the league, or to find out when the next game is, check out their website.

Why? Epsiode 293- The Ramoms

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Here's another fun episode from our sister show, Rock n Roll Grad School.

Hey! Ho! Let’s Go! The Ramoms play punk rock music for punks of all ages. Their loving tributes to both their children and the Ramones are the type of things that make you wanna be sedated. (Or if you’re listening to the Ramoms, playdated.) For more information on the group, and to learn when they’re playing near you, check out their website. Or you can follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

Why? Episode 292- Escape Rooms

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 04:00:00 -0400

It's the activity that will either bring friends closer together or it will most surely tear friends apart. Of course, we're talking about escape rooms. What are the rules? What can we learn about humanity from the activity? We talked with Michael from the Milwaukee location of the popular Escape the Room.

For more information, you can check out the Milwaukee branch's Facebook page, and to find an Escape the Room near you, check out their website.

Why? Episode 291- The Naturist Research Library

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 04:00:00 -0400

The Naturist Research Library is exactly what you think it is- a library with a large catalogue, documenting the history and enjoyment of naturism. The library has one of the largest collections of such material in the world. We talked with Doug, one of the librarians about the history of the collection and, if you are allowed to be naked while researching the collection, do you need to wear those white gloves?

For more information on the Naturist Educational Foundation and the library, check out their website.

Why? Episode 290- Surf Rock with The Surfrajettes

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 04:00:00 -0500

There's a new/old sound sweeping the world and that's surf music. And leading the charge are The Surfrajettes, an all-female band leaving audiences spellbound with their musical skills.

We talked with Shermy, one of the band's guitarists as they prepared to hit the road for a long stretch, playing with bands like The Electric Six and The Reverend Horton Heat.

For more information and tour dates, check out their website (where you can also order their tubular debut release, "Roller Fink,") and you can follow them on Facebook.

Why? Episode 289- The Boot Tan Festival

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0500

There is always a reason to celebrate women and women in sports. Enter the Boot Tan Fest, a yearly celebration where women have a mountain all to themselves. And to cap off the weekend's activities, there is a naked ski run for all to participate in.

We talked with Jenny Verrochi , the founder of the festival about the joy and celebration contained in each and every year of Boot Tan.

For more information, you can check out the Boot Tan website, or you can follow them on Instagram.

Why? Episode 288- Corgi Racing

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0500

What better way to spend a day than watching your pet corgi race around with other dogs, having a great time? Thankfully, there's a few folks in southern California who feel the same way. What started as a day on the beach has turned into a twice-a-year gathering on the beach as well as two days of races at one of the most iconic horse racing venues in the country.

We talked with Kelly, one of the founders of So Cal Corgi Racing about the event and all it's intricacies. Are there boxes for the dogs? How do you keep them organized? And, perhaps most importantly of all, can you bet on them?

For more information, you can check out the So Cal Corgi Nation website. You can also follow them on Facebook.

Why? Episode 287- Even more time with the Accidental Swingers

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0500

When we talked with Marina and Tristan from The Accidental Swingers podcast last year, we had a lot of stuff to cover. Thankfully, we were able to sit down for another conversation about safe words, how relationships grow and change and even what to do if you end up dating Art Garfunkel.

You can find the Accidental Swingers podcast wherever you get your podcasts. You can also visit their website, or follow them on Instagram.

Why? Episode 286- The American Museum of the House Cat

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Ask any house cat you know- they will tell you they are most deservedly worthy of a museum. Thankfully, there's the American Museum of the House Cat, a celebration of all things cat-related. We talked with Dr Simms, the founder of the museum and Julie, the museum's director. (Museum cat Mimi was too busy to talk with us.)

For more information, you can check out the museum's website, or follow them on Facebook or Instagram. And if you'd prefer to follow Mimi, she is on Instagram too.

Why? Episode 285- The Kennedy Assassination in LEGO

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Like many people, Eric Peschke grew up fascinated by the assassination of President John F Kennedy. So, Eric did what any curious child would do; he built the entire scene in LEGO. And now that model is heading to the Sixth Floor museum in Dallas, Texas.

We talked with Eric about the model, it’s building and how it grew over the years. To see the model for yourself, check it out on Facebook. It's pretty cool.

Why? Episode 284- Jon Scott on Tom Petty

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Jon Scott worked as a record promotion guy with a lot of great artists, but his most important, and meaningful, relationship was with Tom Petty. (In fact, Jon can be credited for breaking Petty, long after the record company gave up on him.) In his new book, Tom Petty and Me, Scott recounts a life-long friendship with one of the great American songwriters of all time.

To get a copy of Jon's book, visit his website.

Why? Episode 283- 1/6 the graphic novel

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0500

What would have happened if the January 6th insurrection had been successful? Harvard law professor Alan Jenkins co-wrote the book. It is a fascinating study of what could have happened. You can order the first two issues of 1/6: The Graphic Novel on Amazon, or you can get it on the comics' website. Alan also has a petition started on MoveOn.org, to ban insurrections from holding public office. You might want to sign it.

Why? Episode 282- Broadway actor and musician Jalen Harris

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Jalen Harris first came to prominence on American Idol, but that's just the beginning of his story. Since then, he's starred on Broadway in The Lion King and he's currently playing Eddie Kendricks in the touring company of Ain't Too Proud to Beg. And now he's sharing his own voice with his EP ManneKin.

We talked with Jalen about his journey and how his work on stage informed his own music. For more information, follow Jalen on Instagram.

Why? Episode 281 World Naked Gardening Day

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0500

One way folks get into naturism is through something as easy as gardening. World Naked Gardening Day is an annual celebration designed to encourage folks to try naturism and to get in touch with the world around them.

We talked with Bill Schroer about the day and it's celebration. On top of that, Bill runs the Nuance Naturist B&B in Battle Creek, Michigan.

For more information about World Naked Gardening Day, check out their website. And if you want to learn more about The Nuance B&B or want to book a stay, check out their website.

Why? Episode 280- The Cure's Lol Tolhurst

Mon, 25 Dec 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Lol Tolhurst knows of that which he speaks. As the founding drummer of The Cure, the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer had a great vantage point to the evolution of goth style. And in his new book, "Goth: A History," Lol tells that story. It's part memoir and part study of an art form- and it's all really enjoyable. (As is his new record.)

"Goth: A History" is available right now wherever you get your books. And for more information, check out Lol's website.

Why? Episode 279- A Very Why Christmas (Flash's Version)

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 04:00:00 -0500

We gather together to celebrate another year done and another to come. We share some of our favorite Christmas music- and it's not the usual stuff- we promise you can't find these songs on Spotify. We also celebrate Whamageddon and award the coveted title of "Dink of the Year." (And somebody better clear off their mantle!)

Why? Episode 278- Theme Park Entertainment with Mark Brymer

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Mark Brymer has spent a career in theme park entertainment. And while that started as performing in some of the shows you see at Six Flags and other similar amusement parks, it has brought him to some amazing places, including collaborating with Dolly Parton among others.

We talked with Mark about his career and the things he's learned along the way. You can see Mark's holiday show, "Holidays in the Park."

Why? Episode 277- Shemp Howard: More Than a Stooge

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Shemp Howard can be a polarizing Stooge amongst fans. But what role did he play in making the Three Stooges the group we all know and love today? Would they even be popular now without his presence?

We talked with Geoff Dale, author of a new book, More Than a Stooge: Shemp Howard is available now wherever you get your books.

Why? Episode 276- The Accidental Swingers

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Tristan and Myrina never thought they'd be part of 'the lifestyle,' That is... until a chance evening made them re-think their opinions on things like non-monogamous relationships and, with their kids out of the house, they thought they'd give it a try. (With a lot of communication before, after and during.)

To help spread the word about the lifestyle, they've started a podcast, The Accidental Swingers and using recordings they made along the way, the listener is guided through the ups and downs of the everyday life of swingers.

For more information, you can listen to their podcast wherever you get podcasts, or you can check out their website.

Why? Episode 275- Rock n Roll Name Dropper Laurie Kaye

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Throughout her career, Laurie Kaye has interviewed numerous greats. But one of her biggest interviews is also rife with tragedy. Laurie interviewed John Lennon on December 8, 1980, just hours before he was assassinated.

Laurie talks about this important date in both her personal life, and in the life of all music fans and so much more in her new book, Confessions of a Rock n Roll Name Dropper, out next month. For more information, check out's Laurie's website, or follow her on Instagram.

Why? Episode 274- The Country Music Hall of Fame

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 04:00:00 -0500

This week we get a fascinating look into the heart of Nashville and, in many ways, all the music we talk about every single week. The Country Music Hall of Fame is dedicated to preserving and promoting country music in all its various incarnations.

We talked with RJ Smith, a writer & editor for the museum about his job there (he just started!) as well as the biographies he's written on Chuck Berry and James Brown.

Why? Episode 273- Horror Unmasked

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 04:00:00 -0500

The genre of horror film has been around since the creation of cinema. And in the book Horror Unmasked, author Brad Weismann takes a look at the history of horror and where it's going. For more information, check out Brad's website.

Plus, Bret Michaels had adopted Bret Michaels.

Why? Episode 272- The Moth Project

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Likely, you haven't spent much time looking at the beauty of the moth. (We know we certainly haven't. ) But the new project, part performance, part music, part lecture, The Moth Project takes audiences deep into the role of the moth in both nature and our everyday life.

We talked with Peter Kiesewalter, the creator and performer behind the Moth Project about his inspiration and how KISS figures into all of this.

For more information, check out the Moth Project website, or follow them on Instagram.

Why? Episode 271-Entrepreneur Isaac Saldana

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Isaac Saldana created his company Sendgrid with a simple question. And with that question, he created a billion dollar company. Now, Isaac is starting again from scratch. We talked with Isaac about the entrepreneur bug and his approach to creative problems.

Why? Episode 270- Coffin Racing

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0400

It's the season for ghosts and goblins and coffin racing. Maybe you're not familiar with the competition... Each year in Manitou Springs, Colorado, competitors carry their coffin up to the top of the track and head off, vying for the fastest speed. But the competition is about so much more than just speed. And you don't need to be in Colorado to experience the race- the whole thing is streamed on-line.

This year's race is being held October 28th. For more information, and to stream the race, check out their website.

Why? Episode 269- The Exciting World of Hobby Horse

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Let's say you want to get into horseback riding and competition- but maybe you don't own a horse or are a little too young? Well, enter the folks at the Tryon Equestrian Resort who offer events requiring only a hobby horse?

For more information, check out their website or visit them on Facebook.

Plus, it's the popular game about drinks where no drinking is involved- that's right, we're seeing if Heidi can identify the drinks at U2's show at the Sphere in Las Vegas.

Why? Episode 268- Competitive Steinholding

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Most people unwind after a long day by hoisting a stein of beer. But for Jim Banko, picking up a stein was just the beginning.

As a former world champion stein holder, Jim is now part of USA Steinholding, the official body of the sport. How do you get into the competition? How do you practice? And, most importantly, do you get to drink the beer you hold? We get all the answers from Jim.

For more information, check out USA Steinholding's website, or follow them on Facebook or Instagram.

Why? Episode 267- Rock photographer/author Julian David Stone

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Julian David Stone has had a fascinating career. Starting by sneaking a camera into concerts and photographing bands he liked, Julian found himself employed as a professional photographer before a career in film called.

Now, he's turned his talents to writing books. His most recent novel, "It's Alive," delves into the fascinating story of the behind-the-scenes of the making of the classic horror film, Frankenstein.

You can find Julian's book wherever you get your books. For more information and to order signed copies of Julian's books, check out his website.

Why? Episode 266- The Moist Towelette Museum

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0400

If you're looking for a travel destination, look no further. The Moist Towelette Museum in East Lansing, MI has something for everybody and you can spend hours looking at the collection. John French is the founder and director of the museum and he walks us through the impressive collection he has amassed of moist towelettes.

If you want to see part of the museum's collection, check out their website.

Why? Episode 264- A creative approach to learning

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0400

People are always looking for new ways to make learning fun for kids. What about using the tools everyone already has within them? Jamie Parganos started Creative Muse using creativity to help kids learn. (And it's not just kids- Jamie has seen the same approach help adults solve problems too!) The program is now in-place at some schools in New York and, shocker, they're seeing great results.

For more information, check out the Creative Muse website.

Why? Episode 264- 'Hammer of the Dogs' author Jarret Keene

Mon, 04 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Who doesn't love a dystopian action story rife with 80's references and set in the fascinating/scary world of Las Vegas? We'll wait.

Thankfully Jarret Keene has put pen to paper to bring us his debut novel, Hammer of the Dogs, an action-packed story for young and old. And lest you think this is Jarret's first time writing, he's a professor at the University of Nevada.. he's legit.

For more information and to order the book, check out the University of Nevada Press website.

Why? Episode 263- Famous Last Words- We have a new podcast!

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0400

If two podcasts weren't enough, we're adding a third one to our slate. This one is different. It's shorter and it offers a look into some of the most interesting people in history- and their final words. Titled, Famous Last Words, the show is a short examination of the life and episodes that led to our subject making their final utterance.

And in this special sneak preview, we offer a listen to two episodes of the show. No one else has heard them! The two episodes feature the final words of Mary Blandy and Nostradamus. What did they say? And why did they say it? Listen in...

Be sure to subscribe to Famous Last Words available wherever you get your podcasts. And please follow us on Facebook and Twiter, or whatever the hell they're calling it now.

Why? Episode 262- Transgender Actor and Activist Samantha Rogers

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0400

It's hard to summarize our conversation with Samantha Rogers. Is it too much to say, just listen to it? We touch on a lot of things about the fight and acceptance of transgender equality. Samantha also talks about her work with TGDetroit, a group that holds gatherings for the transgender community in the Detroit area. You can find more information about them at their website. But, otherwise, just listen to Samantha's story. You'll be better for it.

Why? Episode 261- Celebrating International Go Topless Day

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0400

All the Go Topless movement is asking for is equality. And on Saturday, August 26th, the group will be celebrating International Go Topless Day. How do you join in? Simple. Just talk off your top. We talked with Nadine Gary, president of the Go Topless movement.

For more information, check out the group's website, or follow them on Facebook or on Instagram.

Why? Episode 260- Sideshow Gelato

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0400

The phrase on their logo says it all- 'Everybody's happy on the inside.' We talked with Jay Bliznick about his origin story, how he learned how to make gelato and what sort of sights and sounds greet every customer upon entering the shop.

For more information, you can check out Sideshow Gelato's website, or follow them on Facebook or Instagram. And for information about the shows and other special events happening at the shop, check out the Sideshow Chicago website.

Why? Episode 259- The Rascals' Felix Cavaliere

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0400

This week we're running a conversation that we had on our sister show that's good enough to talk about on Why? (Plus, if you're looking for something to read on vacation...)

His songs have been popular with generations of listeners. Now, for the first time, Felix Cavaliere tells the fascinating story of his life, both on and off the road with folks like Jimi Hendrix, Steve Cropper and, of course, The Rascals.

"Memoir of a Rascal" is available right now wherever you get your books. For more information, check out Felix's website, or follow him on Facebook.

Why? Episode 258- Practice with John Vorhaus

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0400

What is practice? How do you define it? Why do you do it? And how do you do it even though you may not want to? John Vorhaus has a fascinating take on the art of practice with his new book The Book of Practice.

For more information and to order a copy of the book, check out John's website.

Why? Episode 257- DJ Lance Rock

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0400

What can we say about the great DJ Lance Rock? From his work on Yo! Gabba Gabba! To his work behind the turntables, Lance is wonderful. And we had a great conversation with him.

For more information, check out DJ Lance's website, or follow him on Instagram.

Why? Episode 256- The History of the Allman Brothers

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 07:00:00 -0400

This week we offer an episode from our sister show, Rock n Roll Grad School. And if that isn't enough, we're giving away copies of the book! Listen to the episode for more information!

The early 1970s was an incredibly difficult time for one of the most popular bands of the decade. With two long time members having died within almost a year of each other, The Allman Brothers Band regrouped and recorded one of the biggest album of their career.

We talked with Alan Paul about his new book, "Brothers and Sisters- The Allman Brothers Band and the Inside Story of the Album that Defined the 70s." It's a great look at the era, even if you don't think you're an Allman fan, you'll love it.

For more information, check out Alan's website, or follow him on Facebook.

Why? Episode 255- The Airsickness Bag Museum

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0400

As people take to the travel this holiday week, we also need to remember the rougher parts of traveling. Thankfully Steve Silberberg has been collecting bags for years and, believe it or not, each bag tells a fascinating story.

For more information, or to see if you recognize any bags, check out the virtual Air Sickness Bag Museum.

Plus, what cover songs should a band from Australia play? And do toasters ever not smell of plastic?

Why? Episode 254- Strip Trivia- the podcast!

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0400

It's the trivia game America loves! This week we talk with Daniel and Rachel and we get down to the bare facts about this popular new podcast. Plus, we subject them to a trivia game of our own. Will they guess the right answers? Will they end up naked? Does it even matter because podcasting is an aural medium? You have to listen to find out!

For more information, check out their website, follow them on Twitter or Instagram.

Why? Episode 253- Celebrating the Year of the Sauna in Estonia

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Saunas are a popular part of many cultures, but in Estonia, 2023 is the year of the sauna. They're celebrating all the different kinds of saunas, and highlighting this important part of Estonian life. We talked with Elin Priks from the Estonian Tourism Board so we could get all the first-hand details and grab our towels.

For more information, check out the website they've dedicated to this year's celebration.

Why? Episode 252- Hangover Helpers

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Let’s be honest, we all need Hangover Helpers. The Perth, Australia-based company will come to your house the morning after a part and CLEAN EVERYTHING UP. They take away the trash. They wash the dishes. They get rid of all the cheese that got left out overnight. We talked with Anya from Hangover Helpers about the wonderful work this company is doing.

For more information, check out Hangover Helpers’ website, follow them on Facebook or on Instagram.

Why? Episode 251- The Mullet Championships

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0400

If there's anything that can bring the world together, it's got to be the mullet. The hairstyle that never goes out of style (or never goes in style) is back and being judged. We talked with Kevin Begola, the founder of the Mullet Championship to discuss the history of the championship, the children's competition and so much more.

For more information, check out the Mullet Champ website, or you can follow them on Facebook or Instagram.

Why? Episode 250- Dr Megavolt

Mon, 29 May 2023 04:00:00 -0400

By day, Austin Richards is an engineer and scientist, but by night, he's Dr Megavolt, blowing the minds of audiences everywhere by showing them the magic of science.

We talked with Dr Megavolt about his early days and his complete lack of fear in building a Tesla coil, something which makes both Luke and Heidi quake in worry. We then move onto some of his most amazing performances, including several years at Burning Man.

For more information on Dr Megavolt, check out his website, or follow him on Facebook, on YouTube. And there is a documentary about him, titled, "Dr Megavolt: From Geek to Superhero," available to watch right now on Tubi.

Why? Episode 249- British Naturism

Mon, 22 May 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Naturism is simply taking off your clothes.

British Naturism is a group dedicated to spreading the joys of doing things naked. Swimming? Dancing? Axe throwing? Sure! And you can do all that (and so much more) at the groups annual Nudefest, happening this summer. We talked with Andrew Welch from British Naturism about the joys of being naked and all the things the group is doing to share the joy of being naked with everyone.

For more information about Nudefest or British Naturism, you can check out their website, follow them on Facebook, or follow them on Twitter.

Why? Episode 248- Atlanta Braves Organist Matthew Kaminski

Mon, 15 May 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Contained within the promise of every spring is baseball. And the national past time just isn't the same without organ music pumping up the crowd. We talked with Matthew Kaminski, the organist for the Atlanta Braves about his time behind the keys, and all the other sports and activities that keep him busy in the off season and when the team's out of town.

And if that isn't enough, Matthew shows us his World Series ring! For more information about Matthew, check out his website or follow him on Facebook.

Why? Episode 247- The Klingon Language Institute

Mon, 08 May 2023 04:00:00 -0400

One of the most popular languages in all of the galaxy is Klingon. But, where do you go to learn Klingon, let alone speak and read it?

We talked with qurgh lungqIj (AKA Chris) from the Klingon Language Institute, a group dedicated to promoting and deepening the appreciation of one of the most beautiful languages in the galaxy.

For more information, check out the Klingon Language Institute's website, or follow them on Facebook.

Why? Episode 246- Michigan Medium Angels Connie & Laura

Mon, 01 May 2023 04:00:00 -0400

How can you receive guidance from the spirits and angels around you? One way is through Michigan mediums Connie and Laura. The two have teamed up to offer readings and sessions and now, Spirit School.

With Connie and Laura as your guide, you'll learn how to tap into all the things going on in the spirit world around you. For more information, you can find Connie at her website, Laura at her website, and at the Michigan Medium Angels website.

Why? Episode 245- Taxidermist Jeff Holmin

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Jeff Holmin started in taxidermy right out of high school and he hasn't looked back. He doesn't need to because he's one of the busiest out there.

Jeff has won first place in both the state and the world taxidermy competition. We talked with Jeff about the early days and what exactly you need to stuff an animal and why the term 'stuff' isn't even correct anymore.

For more information, check out Jeff's company, the North Star Taxidermy Studio.

Why? Episode 244- Fertility Technology

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 04:00:00 -0400

We last spoke with Donna J Drucker about her book on the history of contraception and now her new book tackles the history of fertility and it is equally fascinating. We get into the details of the history of conception (and the history of trying to improve conception) and so much more.

For more information, you can follow Dr Drucker on Twitter.

Meanwhile, Heidi is left trying to figure out what to wear for an 80's themed party.

Why? Episode 243- The National Mustard Museum

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Let's be honest- most museums don't cut the... well, you get the joke. And the 1986 Red Sox team is the origin story for Barry Levinson, the founder of the National Mustard Museum.

Boasting literally thousands of mustards, exhibits showing how mustard is made and loads of ephemera, the museum also boasts it's own Mustard University. (It's called Poupon U.)

For more information about hte museum, to apply for membership for Poupon U and to visit the gift shop, filled with so many mustard choices, check out their website. Or you can follow them on Facebook.

Plus, willing producer Rachel visited the Golden Girls convention, Golden Con and calls in with a full report.

Why? Episode 242- Muzzins

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 04:00:00 -0400

How does one describe the music of Muzzins? They describe themselves as a 'psychedelic party band,' which is as good as an explanation as any.

What we love about Muzzins is their outlook on the life, the role of art for all of us and the joys of collaboration. This Saturday (April 8th) they're playing at The Paradise in Boston and the following Thursday they're releasing a new single.

We talked with R-Muzz about all the goings on and the approach to art and other such things. For more information on the band, check them out on Facebook.

And if that isn't enough, we finally found the perfect job for us!

Why? Episode 241- Musician Tammy Glover on her musical "Wendy, My Darling"

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Tammy Glover has successful careers in multiple fields, so, it's not surprising she decided to tackle the musical genre.

But, Tammy approached it differently, finding a way to put a new twist on the Peter Pan story with the show, "Wendy, My Darling." We talked with Tammy about writing the show, putting the show on the stage and the unique-for-reasons-we-still-dont-understand idea of a project where women play key roles in the show both on stage and off.

For more information about "Wendy, My Darling," check out their website.

Why? Episode 240- Clone-a-Willy

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Sure, sex toys are fun, but what if they were a little more... personal? That's where Clone-a-Willy comes in. As the in-home penis molding kit experts, you can make your own sex toy with your own two hands... and a few other parts too.

And they don't just stop with the willy. There's Clone-a-Pussy kits and so much more. We talked with Victoria from the company about their fascinating origins and all the unique ways their clients are using their products. For more information, check out their website. (And if you use the code 'FLASH' at checkout, you'll get an extra 20% off just for being a Why? listener.)

We also discuss the name of the new Netflix movie and why it might be a little problematic in other parts of the world.

Why? Episode 239- The World Toe Wrestling Federation

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Everyone can be a champion. The key is finding the right thing that you excel at. Maybe it's toe wrestling?

We talked with Ben "Toe-tal Destruction" Woodroffe, the reigning champion about his entry into the sport and his work to try to spread the word of the sport around the world. Plus, we get an insight into the lengths many go to to try to capture that elusive title. For more information, follow the World Toe Wrestling Federation on Facebook.

And if that isn't enough, Berlin has decided to let women be topless at pools. (How was this not already a thing?)

Why? Episode 238- Private Investigator Orlando Wilson

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Orlando Wilson has the job that you've probably dreamed about doing- and, believe it or not, it's not all glamor. Orlando is a private investigator, helping people try to find solutions for some of the most difficult problems that you can think of.

For more information on Orlando's services, to read his blog, or to order his books, check out his website, Truth Has Only Few Friends. He's also on Instagram.

Why? Episode 237 The Museum of Classic Sci-fi

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Neil Cole has turned a life-long love of science fiction into something that everyone can enjoy. The Museum of Classic Sci-Fi features props, costumes and artwork from Doctor Who, the Planet of the Apes, Star Wars and Flash Gordon.

We talked with Neil about his collection and his approach sharing his collection with generations of fellow fans of the genre. For more information and to visit out the museum, check out their website.

Why? Episode 236- Human Fountains

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0500

If you're an America's Got Talent viewer, you've seen this week's guest in action. The Human Fountains are something to see- an act that completely lives up to their name. We sat down with Sam Kaufman from The Fountains, and go on the amazing journey that the group has been on.

For more information, check out the Human Fountains website, or you can follow them on Facebook.

Why? Episode 235- Without A Cue's Golden Girls Murder Mystery

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Who doesn't want to spend a fun evening with Rose, Blanche, Dorothy and Sophia? Throw in a murder and things start to get real interesting. We talked with Traci Connaughton, founder of the Without a Cue theater company about how you go about making someone like Rose a cold-hearted murderer.

For more information about catching either the Golden Girls show, or any other the other shows they have running in Pennsylvania, New Jersey as well as Delaware and Maryland, check out their website.

Why? Episode 234- The exciting sport of Jai-Alai

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Jai Alai may sound like something your grandmother would be into, but when you see these athletes catching and throwing a small ball with the density of a hockey puck at 100+ mph, your opinion might change.

We talked with Scott Savin, from the World Jai-Alai League, who is one of the many working to revitalize the sport and bring it to a whole new generation.

The season just kicked off, so now it the perfect time to check it out. For more information, and to watch and wager on the game, visit their website.

Why? Episode 233- New Acquisitions for the Rubber Chicken Museum

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 04:00:00 -0500

We talked with Shana from the Rubber Chicken Museum last year, but a lot has happened. Those things include Fred Schneider, and us doing our damndest to get invited to join the board for the museum.

We sat down once more with Shana to find out what has been going on at the museum, and to present her with our efforts over the last 8 months.

If you want to visit the Rubber Chicken Museum, located inside the Archie McPhee store in Seattle, WA. For more information, check out their website.

Why? Episode 232- Songwriter Holly Knight

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 04:00:00 -0500

We all know that Love is a Battlefield and that Tina Turner is simply The Best. And if you're wondering how we know these things, it's because of the work of this week's guest, Holly Knight. Holly has written some of the best known songs of the 80s and 90s and she talks about her career in her new memoir, "I Am the Warrior." It's a look at her fascinating career and the lessons she's learned along the way. For more information, you can check out Holly's website.

Why? Episode 231 Keeping it Hot with Ashleigh Renard

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 04:00:00 -0500

When we last spoke with Ashleigh Renard, she was promoting her memoir about her adventures in the swing lifestyle titled Swing. Now, she's taking the lessons she learned in that book and passing them along to the rest of us. Between her After Dark workshops and her Keeping It Hot subscription box, Ashleigh is helping the rest of us keep it sexy.

We talk about this, the TV show being developed about her book and so much more. For more information, or to sign up for any (or all) of these options, check out Ashleigh's website.

Plus, some snakes have multiple clitorises. Who knew?

Why? Episode 230- Swissploitation movie Mad Heidi

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Everyone loves a good exploitation movie; but you haven't seen anything quite like the newest exploitation genre- Swissploitation. Co-director Johannes Hartmann joins us to explain his influences, how he funded the movie and, most importantly, why that little girl from the Alps is now so incredibly angry and bent on revenge.

To buy or rent the movie, and to get all your Mad Heidi merch, check out the movie's website. You can also follow them on Facebook.

Why? Episode 229- Extreme Kidnapping

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 04:00:00 -0500

What better way to say hello to 2023 than by extreme kidnapping.

The premise is simple; you pay Adam and his employees and they kidnap you; giving you the full experience of what it feels like to be held ransom. And before you ask, yes, they take requests. For more information, you can check out the Extreme Kidnapping website or follow them on Facebook.

Why? Episode 228- Rock Fantasy Camp founder David Fishof

Mon, 26 Dec 2022 04:00:00 -0500

David Fishof is in the business of making dreams come true. David is the founder of Rock Fantasy Camp, where people can jam with some of their musical heroes. From bringing Levon Helm and Roger Daltrey together, David is also making sure the rock heroes have a good times too.

And if you didn't already want to go to rock camp yourself, David has written a book about the whole experience AND there's a documentary to show you all the fun that's going on in just one week.

For more information, or to sign up for the next camp, check out the camp's website. And Rock Camp, the documentary is streaming on Amazon Prime.

Why? Episode 227- A Why? Holiday Celebration

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 04:00:00 -0500

This week, there's no guests, just us and AI representations of some of our favorite scenes from the year. For this episode we celebrate the season with some of our favorite, unique holiday music. Hopefully some of these tunes will make it onto your next playlist.

Here's the breakdown of what we played:
Santa, How Come Your Eyes are Green When Last Year They Were Blue- Louis Prima
Christmas Boogie- Spencer Horn
Winter Wonderland- Domenico Savino and his Orchestra
Christmas Polka- Jimmy Wakely with his Cowboy Band
Super Sunny Christmas- Redd Kross
Santa's Got a Sunburn- Barefoot Man
Little Drummer Boy- Dr Norman S Wright & Dr Charles S Kendall
The Merry Christmas Polka- Dinah Shore
Auggie Wren's Christmas Story- Harvey Kitel (from "Smoke" written by Paul Auster)
God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen/O Come All Ye Faithful- Jerry Fielding and his Brass Choir

Happy holidays and we'll see you next week with another great guest to wrap up the year.

Why? Episode 226- Learning about Wine with Keith Wallace

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Is wine really that complicated? Do most people who talk about it sound really pretentious? Is there any way that a person can learn how to taste and talk about wine and maybe even become a sommelier?

The answer to all of these questions is 'yes.' Well, if you're talking with Keith Wallace and attending a class at the Wine School of Philadelphia. Keith guided us through the world of wine, without pretension, explaining in clear and easy terms, how we can all become experts on wine.

For more information about the Wine School of Philadelphia, to sign up for a course, or to get a gift certificate for the holiday season, check out the school's website, or follow them on Facebook.

Why? Episode 225- Mark & Brian's Mark Thompson

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Mark Thompson, with his radio partner Brian Phelps, were responsible for some of the most memorable radio in the 1990s and 2000s. As hosts of "The Mark and Brian Show," they ruled LA radio for almost a decade before being syndicated across the country.

Now Mark is recounting his adventures in his memoir, Don't Bump the Record, Kid, available December 6th. We talked with Mark about throwing Christmas trees, showering with political candidates and why he wrote the book now. To get your copy, check out Mark's website.

Plus, we talk about Thanksgiving, whore wagons and what exactly Calvin is peeing on on all those truck stickers.

Why? Episode 224- Visiting Chicken, Alaska with Susan Wiren

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Chicken, Alaska is off the beaten path, but they'd love it if you visited. However, a few things to keep in mind.

Chicken doesn't have electricity. They do, however, have a post office and a liquor store. (Yes, it's called Chicken Liquors, and the fact that the t-shirts didn't fly off the shelves confuses us as well.) We talked with Susan Wiren, who lived in Chicken for 8 years, about the unique challenges posed by living in Chicken, how the town got it's name and how she ended up there in the first place.

For more information, and for Chicken-themed gifts, you can check out the town's website.

Why? Episode 223- Sex Educator and Top Freedom Advocate Dorothy Stover

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Last week we were talking about chicken, this week we're talking about breasts. Or at least showing them. We talked with sex educator and top freedom advocate Dorothy Stover.

You may know of Dorothy from her introduction of a bill making it okay for anyone to go topless on Nantucket beaches. But Dorothy is on a mission to make it easier for people to talk about sex and helping people understand how to improve their sex lives. From her on-line classes to her podcast, Nantucket After Dark, Dorothy is doing a lot to spread the word.

For more information, to sign up for a class, or to hear the podcast, check out Dorothy's website, or follow her on Facebook.

Why? Episode 222- The Famous Chicken

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 04:00:00 -0500

He's hobnobbed with presidents, he has his own baseball card, he's been named "one of the most powerful 100 people in sports of the 20th century." He is Ted Giannoulas, better known to most as the Famous Chicken.

We talked with Ted about his humble beginnings as a radio promotion chicken to his ascendancy to world-wide fame and adoration and what he's learned along the way.

For more information, you can visit The Chicken's website, or you can check out his channel on YouTube.

Plus, Luke and Heidi discuss what makes a good cult and why that doesn't include sharing a refrigerator or sweating profusely.

Why? Episode 221- Vehicle Centric Defensive Tactics

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 04:00:00 -0500

In movies what happens when a CEO or a head of state is in their car and trapped by the bad guys? The person usually turns to the driver and says, "get me out of here."

But, how does someone learn how to do that? How do you learn to drive in a way that keeps your passenger and bystanders safe? Enter Vehicle Dynamics. They offer driving courses for security professionals, designed to help them get out of sticky situations. (They also offer courses for the general public too.)

We talked with Joe Autera, the president and CEO of Vehicle Dynamics, about how he applied his real-life security and military experience to make the company what it is today.

For more information, check out their website and sign up for a course- maybe we'll see you on the track!

Plus, Heidi's mom comes to visit and talk about marble.

Why? Episode 220- The Erotic Heritage Museum

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0400

As you no doubt remember, last week we discovered that museums are a great place to display and celebrate what makes something special.

The Erotic Heritage Museum in Las Vegas is another institution doing that; but they're presenting sex and the history of sex in a way that weaves together the story of humans and sexuality. (You might be better off taking Grandma to see Mama Mia.) But for the rest of us, it's a fascinating study of what makes us tick.

We talked with Dr Victoria Hartmann, the Executive Director of the museum, about what their goal is, but also what she has learned in a lifetime of studying human sexuality.

For more information and to plan your visit, check out the museum's website, or follow them on Facebook or Twitter.

Plus, it's Halloween, so we play some lame spooky sound effects while we talk about "Let's Go Brandon" themed gay pornography.

Why? Episode 219- The World Famous Gopher Hole Museum

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0400

This week we're headed to visit our neighbors to the north so we can appreciate and celebrate their culture.

We talked with Laurel Kurta from the World Famous Gopher Hole Museum, located in Torrington, Alberta. The museum is part of Laurel's family history, as well as the history of their small town. (And we already asked about getting gophers dressed like Luke and Heidi added to the museum.)

For more information, check out the Gopher Hole Museum's website.

Plus, we've got leaf peeping and sexy ghosts.

Why? Episode 218- Naked Yoga

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0400

We're all looking for some peace in a crazy world. Maybe naked yoga is just the thing. We talked with Doria, who has her own naked yoga studio in London and who also teaches on-line and around the world.

The conversation was a fascinating dive into spirit, outlook and acceptance. For more information, you can visit Doria's website to book a class (either on-line or in person) or to order her book about her journey to naked yoga.

Plus, we try to figure out why Supertramp is in our dreams and why sex toys don't make the best devices for cheating in competitions.

Why? Episode 217- Sha Na Na's Scott Simon

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Sha Na Na have been everywhere- from the stage of Woodstock to the gym at Rydell High. We talked with Scott Simon, a long-time member of the group, who also wrote one of the most popular songs from the movie Grease, Sandy.

For more information, you can follow Sha Na Na on Facebook, or you can get information, merch and so much more on their website.

Why? Episode 216- Arctic Bath

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Look, you've already been back in the swing of things for a whole month- you deserve some time off. And what better place to escape to than Sweden? We talked with Peter from the Arctic Bath, a hotel and spa located on the Lule river.

Peter's walking tour answered all our questions and made us long to sit in a hot tub and watch the northern lights twinkle above us.

For more information, you can check out their website. You can also follow them on Twitter and Instagram. And if you want to see the tour Peter gave us, check out our website.

Also in this episode we celebrate fighting writers and lizards in sweaters.

Why? Episode 215- Living Dead Tours with Lawrence DeVincentz

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0400

It's the time of year when thoughts turn to ghouls and goblins. And, of course, zombies. In western Pennsylvania, they're well acquainted with zombies, being the filming location for so many of George A Romero's horror masterpieces.

We talked with Lawrence DeVincentz, who, as part of the annual Living Dead Weekend, offers tours of many of the filming locations. At the celebrations in Evans City, PA this October, you can meet many of the cast members of classic horror films and, thanks to Larry's crack research and dedication, see many of the filming locations for the classic Night of the Living Dead.

For more information, check out the Living Dead Weekend website.

Why? Episode 214- Actress & Author Dinah Manoff

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0400

This week's guest was a blast to talk with. Dinah Manoff has been involved with three incredibly popular films & franchises. (That'd be Grease, the Chucky films and The Golden Girls.) Your move, Harrison Ford.

Now Dinah has written her first novel, loosely based on some of her adventures in filmmaking. The Real True Hollywood Story of Jackie Gold is available wherever you get your books. For more information, or to order a copy, check out Dinah's website. You can also follow her for updates on her Facebook page.

Plus, how comfortable is riding naked on a horse and, do we even want to think about what Prince Andrew does all day?

Why? Episode 213- Flat Earth Dave

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Flat Earth David didn't always think the earth was flat. But once he had his awakening, he wanted to spread the word. He has a podcast, an app, and a viewpoint that, regardless of whether you agree with him, is impassioned.

We talked with Dave about all of this, plus maybe he finally got us a listener in Antarctica?

For more information and to check out his podcast or app, check out his website. You can also follow him on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

Why? Episode 212- Songwriters Daw & Edmondson

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0400

You may not know the names of songwriters Charity Daw and Josh Edmonson, but you definitely know their music. Their music has over a billion streams and they've worked with artists like the Beach Boys' Mike Love, Ringo Starr and Dove Cameron. Wait... Dove Cameron? Yup, they wrote songs for the uber popular Disney movie The Descendants. Need we say anything else?

Plus, Heidi's mom extends an invitation and we're all booking our flights on Southwest from now on.

Why? Episode 211- Soap Making with Iron Lion Soap

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 04:00:00 -0400

For most of us, taking a shower and washing with soap is just another thing to do every day. However, Iron Lion Soap is trying to change that- with an array of soaps designed to make washing something to enjoy and savor.

We talked with Avi Rubin from Iron Lion Soap about the company's humble beginnings to their unique approach to creating some truly wonderful soaps.

For more information and to order your own soap (or even set up a soap subscription), check out Iron Lion's website, or you can follow them on Facebook or Twitter.

Why? Episode 210- David Bowie at 75 with Martin Popoff

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 04:00:00 -0400

This year would have been David Bowie's 75th birthday. Famed rock writer Martin Popoff has put together a wonderful present for us all- Bowie @ 75 is his new book, a look at the many phases of Bowie's multifaceted career.

David Bowie @ 75 is available wherever you get your books on September 6th. For more information on Martin, to listen to his podcast, or to get copies of his many other books, check out his website.

Why? Episode 209- Sword Swallower Cyrus Pynn

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Cyrus Pynn learned how to swallow swords the hard way- he just did it. And that was just the beginning of our fascinating conversation. We learned all about the hard knocks of sword swallowing and why neither Luke or Heidi should ever be allowed to try this dangerous trick.

You can see Cyrus in action across the country. For more information, you can check out his website, or follow him on Facebook and Instagram.

And if that isn't enough, we talked for a while (some might say too long,) about Tommy Lee's method of mayhem, if you know what we mean, and we think you do.

Why? Episode 208- Human Cannonball David "The Bullet" Smith

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 04:00:00 -0400

David "The Bullet" Smith might've been born into the human cannonball game, but that doesn't mean it was an easy transition to getting inside the cannon. David holds 6 Guinness world records and appeared on America's Got Talent, showcasing his amazing skills.

For more information, or to book David for an appearance, you can check out his website, or you can follow him on Facebook.

Why? Episode 207- Roadie Tana Douglas

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Roadies are the lifeblood of any music tour; the folks who are charged with making sure the lights are hung, the instruments are tuned and the stage is set for our favorite artists to perform. Tana Douglas has spent a lifetime in music, cutting her teeth with her fellow Australians like AC/DC and INXS.

Tana's memoir, Loud, is available wherever you get books. You can also get it on her website. For more information you can also follow her on Facebook.

Plus, we pay tribute to a pirate legend on a very special 10th anniversary.

Why? Episode 206- The Super Bowl of Naked Volleyball

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Clearly, it's hot enough in most of the world right now, that taking off your clothes sounds like a brief respite from the oppressive heat. And, if you're naked, why not have some fun? The White Thorn Lodge, located near Pittsburgh has been hosting the Super Bowl of Naked Volleyball the week after Memorial Day.

We get all the info on why volleyball, how you join in the fun and the joys of nudism. If you're intrigued, maybe this is the weekend to give it a shot. For more information, check out the White Thorn's website.

Why? Episode 205- Air Card Safety Design

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 04:00:00 -0400

We've all seen those cards in the seatback in front of us on the airplane- the one with the graphics showing us what to do in case of an emergency... well, someone has to design them. We talked with Brock Fisher from Air Safety Art International, who design those cards for a number of airlines as well as clients with private jets.

For more information on Brock and his company, check out their website.

Why? Episode 204- Music Great John Doe

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 04:00:00 -0400

This week we thought we'd share with you an episode from our other podcast. "Rock n Roll Grad School," (available wherever you get your podcasts) is the same sort of conversations we have on Why?, but with a focus on music.

In this recent episode, we talked with music great John Doe. He has a new solo record out, AND he's touring this summer with his band X. (They're playing the with Psychedelic Furs.. now that's a double bill.)

For more information on John, check out his website.

Why? Episode 203- Stern Pinball

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 04:00:00 -0400

What's more American than pinball? So, while we celebrate the 4th of July, you can also enjoy this interview with Zach Sharpe from Stern Pinball. Stern is famous for their themed and licensed games, including bands like Rush, AC/DC and, of course, Kiss. We talk about the history of the game, the history of the company and a few tips to increase your score.

For more information, check out the Stern website, where they have a cool locator, so you can find the nearest arcade with Stern machines, you can also follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

Why? Episode 202- The Rubber Chicken Museum

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 04:00:00 -0400

If you think you don't like museums, you just haven't been to the Rubber Chicken Museum. We talked with Shana, the founder and high priestess of the Rubber Chicken Museum, located inside the Archie McPhee store located in Seattle, Washington. For more information, you can check out the store's website, or follow their store mascot on Twitter, or see store updates on Facebook.

Why? Episode 201- Ballroom Dancer (and Luke's mom) Lynn Poling

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 04:00:00 -0400

As we cross the episode 200 threshold, we need to acknowledge those who have been so important to our success in making this show. So, this week, we're talking with Luke's mom, Lynn Poling and her hobby of ballroom dancing.

Why? Episode 200- Opera Singer (and Heidi's mom) Marily Sampson

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 04:00:00 -0400

As we cross the episode 200 threshold, we need to acknowledge those who have been so important to our success in making this show. So, this week, we're talking with Heidi's mom, Marily Sampson and her career as a professional opera singer.

Why? Episode 199- The Great Knaresborough Bed Race

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Who wouldn't want to get dressed up and carry a bed, complete with occupant, through the town of Knaresborough, England? We talked with Kevin Lloyd, who has been involved with the race for decades. Will we be suiting up and taking on the great hill next year?

For more information, you can check out their website, or you can follow them on Facebook or Twitter.

Why? Episode 198- George Michael Reborn with Robert Bartko

Mon, 30 May 2022 04:00:00 -0400

This week we talked with Robert Bartko, who impersonates George Michael in the stage show George Michael Reborn. We talked about invoking the spirit of the great singer, his interaction with former members of Wham and how many Choose Life t-shirts he owns.

For more information and to find out where Robert is playing, check out his website. You can also follow him on Facebook.

Why? Episode 197- The Jumping Frog Jubilee of Calaveras County

Mon, 23 May 2022 04:00:00 -0400

If you though frog jumping contests were only the things of Mark Twain stories, think again. In Calaveras County, California, they've been seeing who's frog can jump the furthest since 1928. We talked with Jon Kitchell, a bridesmaid, never a bride, in the frog jumping world. Jon promised to name a frog after the show for this year's contest, so maybe he'll fare better?

For more information, check out the Calaveras Count County Fair and Jumping Frog Jubilee website. You can also follow them on Facebook.

Why? Episode 196- The Red Hot Chili Pipers

Mon, 16 May 2022 04:00:00 -0400

This week we don't got Flea and Anthony... we got something much better- we're talking about the Red Hot Chili Pipers, the world's most popular rock music playing bagpipe group. Is there more than one? Good question. We talked with Douglas Gillespie, the manager of the group, about how there's just something about the sound of the pipes that brings people together.

For more information and to see when the Pipers are playing near you, check out their website, or you can follow them on Facebook or Twitter. Rock on!

Why? Episode 195 Make Love Not Porn

Mon, 09 May 2022 04:00:00 -0400

They say if you can't beat 'em, join 'em. And that's what Make Love Not Porn is doing... kinda.

Fed up with unrealistic porn and the expectations it's putting on people, Make Love Not Porn is dedicated to showing sex in all it's funny, messy, awkward glory. Folks are encouraged to upload their own sex videos, showing the real sex they're having and what it's really like.

We talked with Ariel from Make Love Not Porn about the site's mission and some of the perks of helping people make the best videos possible. For more information or to join for free, check out their website.

Why? Episode 194- Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader Sherri Steenson

Mon, 02 May 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Sherri Steenson was still in high school when she joined the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders in 1971. And the group was nowhere near as famous as they would become. But in her season with the team, Sherri had a lifetime of experiences, from cheering at a Super Bowl to doing some advertising to meeting new friends she'd have never met otherwise.

Sherri shared with us some of her memories of that season and the lifetime of friendships that she gained while working for the Cowboys and Heidi once again lamented her career that could have been.

Why? Episode 193- Virgil from the Mahoning Drive-In Theater

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 04:00:00 -0400

If you've ever been to a drive-in movie theater, you know the joy of seeing a movie outside, surrounded by people. And, what was once a vanishing part of Americana is seeing a bit of a renaissance. We talked with Virgil Cardamone, the film booker at the Mahoning Drive-In Movie Theater, located in Lehighton, PA.

If hearing Virgil talk about film and the drive-in doesn't make you want to go see a movie right now, you don't like movies. For more information, check out the Mahoning's website, and you can follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Why? Episode 192- Knock Knock Give a Sock

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Imagine how much good can be done when you help out your neighbor and learn more about them? That was the idea Adina Lichtman had when she started Knock Knock Give a Sock. What started as a way to give socks to those experiencing homelessness has turned into a bigger mission- one to connect neighbors and realize how connected we all really are.

For more information, check out Knock Knock's website, or you can follow them on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

Plus, we're making a movie! Check out our site and donate if you can!

Why? Episode 191- Memoirs of a Roadie with Joel Miller

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Is life on tour with a rock band all it's cracked up to be? This week's guest, Joel Miller knows. He spent time on the road with Stone Temple Pilots, Guns n Roses and the Cranberries and wrote about it all in his book, "Memoir of a Roadie: Axl said I made a great cup of tea... Scott Weiland liked the Carpenters and Ozzy drinks Rose." It's a fun look behind the curtain.

It's available right now wherever you get your books. And Joel hosts a podcast "Party Like a Rock Star," where he talks with roadies and musicians, available wherever you get your podcasts. Rock on!

Memoir of a Roadie: Axl Said I Made a Great Cup of Tea... Scott Weiland Liked the Carpenters... & Ozzy Drinks Rosé.

Why? Episode 190- Porn Editor Matt

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 04:00:00 -0400

This week we're going behind the scenes and talking with someone incredibly important in the making of pornography, but woefully under appreciated. We talk with a porn editor. Matt has a popular twitter account where he talks about his career and the various ups and downs.

For more information, you can follow Matt on Twitter.

Why? Episode 189- Cubing with Lauren and Kit from the World Cube Association

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Maybe you remember being stymied by the Rubik's cube at some point in the 80's. Well, the cube is as popular as ever, and to make you feel even worse about your solving skills, it's gotten competitive. This week we talked with Kit and Lauren Clement from the World Cube Association.

They have their share of championships and medals, and give us a great look into the sport that is popular around the globe. (Plus, we have a bonus co-host who knows much more about this than either our normal co-hosts do.)

For more information, you can check out the World Cube Association website, or follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Why? Episode 188- Bathing at the Buckstaff Bathhouse

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 04:00:00 -0400

When you think of bathhouses, you likely think of FDR, settling into a nice hot spring filled tub, easing his weary bones. Believe it or not, those bathhouses in Hot Springs, Arkansas still exist and you can visit them to soak away your troubles. We talked with Mandi from the Buckstaff Bathhouse to get all the details on what a visit entails and why they still have something called a 'needle shower.'

For more information, you can check out their website or follow them on Facebook or Instagram.

Why? Episode 187- BDSM B&B Inn Thrall

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 04:00:00 -0400

If you're looking for a kinky getaway, with everything needed for some BDSM fun, look no further than this week's guest. We talked with Mistress Kathleen from Inn Thrall. She tells us all about the beautiful rooms and options for guests. We also go over the three house rules, which, may surprise you. (Rule #2- hydration.)

For more information, you can check out their website, or follow them on Twitter.

Why? Episode 186- Body Painter Breanna Cooke

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Anybody can paint on a canvas that's flat and sitting still. But painting on something with dimensions and that can breathe and complain... well, that's a whole other story. This week we talked with body artist Breanna Cooke, who uses the human body for her artwork.

She has painted hundreds of people for various events and she knows the ins and outs to having your artwork turn out perfect every time. And now she's expanded, offering clothing with some of her beautiful and unique designs printed on them.

For more information, you can check out Breanna's website or you can place orders from her on-line store. And to see some of her amazing work, you can follow her on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

Why? Episode 185- Willy Wonka's Veruca Salt, Julie Dawn Cole

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 04:00:00 -0500

You may not know this week's guest by name, but you'll definitely recognize her... especially if she's yelling, "I want it now!!!"

We got to talk with the lovely Julie Dawn Cole, better known to generations of fans as Veruca Salt from the original Willy Wonka film. To order a copy of Julie's memoir, check out her website. You can also find Julie on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. And you can also find Julie on Cameo. (And, of course, rush delivery available.)

Why? Episode 184- Baseball Announcer Emma Tiedemann

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 04:00:00 -0500

In the week that pitchers and catchers SHOULD be reporting to spring training, we need something to remind us that winter is almost over and spring is on its way.

We talked with Emma Tiedemann, one of the first female broadcasters in minor league baseball. Emma currently calls games for the Portland Sea Dogs (a Red Sox affiliate team). But baseball isn't her only sport; Emma has also called basketball and hockey.

For more information, you can follow Emma on Twitter. And if you want to see what's going on with the Sea Dogs, you can follow them on Twitter as well.

Why? Episode 183- The World Axe Throwing League

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 04:00:00 -0500

What better way to celebrate Valentine's day this year by not only talking about the joys of axe throwing, but how about we talk about it with Hayden Brown and Lucas Johnson, the dual champions from the World Axe Throwing Championship?

Is this episode rife with ax puns? You bet your axe it is.

For more information about the World Axe Throwing League, check out their website, or follow them on Facebook or Instagram. You can follow Lucas on Instagram and if you want to train where the pros train, check out Murfreesboro Axe, either on their website, or on Instagram.

Why? Episode 182- The Kama Sutra Tantra Chair

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 04:00:00 -0500

This week we were planning on talking with AJ Vitaro, the designer of the Tantra Chair, which was designed to help improve the love life of couples around the world.

Unfortunately, AJ was unable to join us, but wrote out his answers to questions we submitted. We then in turn recruited our two Reluctant Executive Producers, John Sauve and Sandy Stone to read AJ's answers for us. What resulted was a fun, informative and fascinating conversation about the design of well-crafted furniture, built to take the lessons from the Kama Sutra and put them forward to help people today enjoy their sex life.

For more information on The Tantra Chair, check out their website. You can also follow them on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

Why? Episode 181- Eric Lankford & Bear from K9 Cinema

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Movies and dogs... how could it get any better?

We talked with Eric Lankford and his trusty co-pilot Bear about K9 Cinema, the only movie theater that not only allows, but wants you to bring your dog to the movie. And Eric has some really big news... they're striking a deal with AMC to bring K9 Cinema to a city near you! For more information and to sign up for the newsletter and learn when Bear is coming to your town, check out their website or follow them on Facebook.

Why? Episode 180- The History of Trade Mark of Quality Bootlegs

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 04:00:00 -0500

The bootleg record label, Trade Mark of Quality, created some of the first and best-known recordings from the 1960s and 70s of popular music. From Great White Wonder and Live'r Than You'll Ever Be to Blueberry Hill, some of the best recordings came from a bootlegger known only as Pigman.

We talked with Ralph Sutherland and Harold Sherrick, the authors of the definitive history and catalogue of the TMQ label. A Pig's Tale is available from Genius Books.

You can also follow them on Facebook and on Twitter.

Why? Episode 179- Unsettling Toys

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Do you have a creepy toy that has been in your family for generations? What about a doll that you're scared to turn your back on? Well, worry no more- Brian and Sara from Unsettling Toys are here to help.

Just box up your deeply disturbing toy and send it to them, where they will adopt it out and help it find it's forever family. Is it haunted? Possessed? Moves on its own accord? They can help.

For more information, check out their website, follow them on Facebook or check out their Instagram page... if you dare.

Why? Episode 178- Mud Wrestling with Kim from Chicago Mud Queens

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Sure mud wrestling is fun- but mud wrestling for a good cause? Well, sign us up. (No really, Heidi might be entering a ring near you soon.)

The Chicago Mud Queens are wrestling and donating the proceeds raised from their matches to different women-centric charities in the Chicago area. For more information on the Queens (and trust us, you want more information) check out their website, follow them on Facebook or Twitter.

We also go through some of the many items we're interested in at the Don Rickles estate auction.

Why? Episode 177- Pig Racing

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 04:00:00 -0500

What's more fun than watching pigs race? We'll wait for your answer. This week we talked with Bart from the All Alaskan Racing Pigs, who are some of the best in the business. We talk about how he got into the sport, how exactly you train a pig and who is Bart's favorite pig and why is it Strawberry?

For more information on the All Alaskan Racing Pigs, check out their website, which features all of their upcoming appearances. You can also follow them on Facebook.

Why? Episode 176- A Very Why? Christmas Celebration

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 04:00:00 -0500

This week, there's no guests, just holiday cheer. We gather together to reminisce about the past year, play party games and share some holiday songs you haven't heard 1,000 times already this year. Happy holidays and we'll see you next week!

Music in this episode:
Christmas Piggy (With the Apple in the Mouth) – The Hunt Sisters

Silent Night, Holy Night- Ronnie Kole Trio

Ol’ Fatso- The Four Aces

The Little Drummer Boy- Sy Mann

Reindeer Boogie- Hank Snow

(Merry Christmas) From Lisa Marie- Jana Sampson

Hang Your Balls on the Christmas Tree- Kay Martin and Her Bodyguards

Santa’s Rap- Treacherous Three

Sleigh Ride- Memphis Sound Orchestra

Why? Episode 175- Mike Kaplan on the "2001: A Space Odyssey" Pop Single

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 04:00:00 -0500

Believe it or not, MGM wasn't sure how to sell Stanley Kubrick's sci-fi masterpiece "2001: A Space Odyssey." One of the ideas suggested by PR executive Mike Kaplan was 'how about a pop single?' Encouraged by Kubrick, Kaplan took up his pen and wrote and produced a song. Kubrick ended up shelving the idea, and the record wasn't heard... until now.

"2001: A Garden of Personal Mirrors" is available wherever you get your digital music, or you can get a limited edition vinyl copy here.

Why? Episode 174- Santa

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 04:00:00 -0500

Before he comes to your town, Santa fired up Zoom to talk with us. We talked with professional Santa Howard Graham about the joys and challenges of portraying everyone's favorite guy in red.

For more information and to book Howard, you can reach out to him on Facebook and to learn more about the International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santas, check out their website. Happy holidays!

Why? Episode 173- Author 'Swing' Ashleigh Renard

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 04:00:00 -0500

Ashleigh Renard repaired her marriage by visiting swing clubs with her husband. Obviously it wasn't that simple, and Ashleigh goes into detail in her new memoir, "Swing." We talk with Asheligh about her non-traditional approach to her marriage, telling such a truthful story and answering all of our sex club questions.

For more information or to sign up for Ashleigh's newsletter, check our her website. You can also follow Ashleigh on Facebook and Instagram.

Why? Episode 172- NASCAR Pit Crew Coaches Mike Metcalf & Shaun Peet

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 04:00:00 -0500

How do you get a NASCAR pit crew to work together as one, to have a successful pit stop lead to a successful race? We talked with Mike Metcalf and Shaun Peet, two crew coaches who have turned the lessons they learned on the track into a leadership program for businesses across the country.

For more information on their DECK Leadership program, you can check out their website. You can also learn more on the site dedicated to their book, 12 Second Culture.

Why? Episode 171- Idaho Potato Museum

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 04:00:00 -0500

Is there anything better than a perfectly cooked and lovingly topped potato? We don't think so. This week we talked with Tish Dahmer, the executive director of the Idaho Potato Museum; an institution dedicated to all things spud-related.

Who has the world's largest potato crisp? Who can tell you the history of the potato? Where can you get potato ice cream? Look no further than the museum. For more information, check out the museum's website, or follow them on Facebook.

Why? Episode 170- Women's Golf Champion Avis Brown-Riley

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 04:00:00 -0500

Avis Brown-Riley is a champion both on and off the golf course. Avis competed professionally on the LPGA circuit, winning dozens of titles as well as being the only African American woman to win both the Junior World Golf Championship and the San Diego Women’s City Amateur Championship. On top of that Avis has appeared on TV's Holey Moley, raised a new generation of golfers and successfully battled cancer.

We talked with Avis about all of these achievements, how the sport has changed and the work she is doing to spread the joy of the game. It was a fascinating conversation.

For more information on Avis, check her out on Twitter or Instagram.

Why? Episode 169- Setting Sail with Yachtley Crew

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 04:00:00 -0500

If you life is all out of love, if you're a maneater, or even if you just like pina coladas, wait until you hear this week's guests.

We talk with Baba Bouy and Tommy Bouy from Yachtley Crew, a band dedicated to making sure you are never too far from a little soft rock music. They've toured the country spreading their message and are heading out on their next big tour.

For more information, you can check out their website, and you can also follow them on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. Ahoy!

Why? Episode 168- Naked, Afraid and Rescuing Animals with Samantha Cline

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Samantha Cline has always loved being outdoors. So have a lot of other people. But Samantha is one of the brave few who put her skills to the test by appearing on the popular show Naked & Afraid. After taping, she returned to Virginia where by day she works rescuing wild animals and helping rehab them before returning them to the wild.

For more information on Samantha, follow her on Instagram, and for more on her important work, check out the Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center in Roanoke, Virginia.

Why? Episode 167- Fire Eater/Burlesque Performer Vixen DeVille

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 04:00:00 -0400

How does one get into fire eating? What about glass walking? Or burlesque? Our guest this week, Vixen DeVille has the answers because she does all three.

On top of performing, Vixen also teaches others how to do these things. She is a great guide, showing how to maximize your talents in any art form and find your true voice. For more information, or to book a class, check out her website. You can also follow her on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

Why? Episode 166- Energy Guide & Author Pamela Aloia

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Pamela Aloia is an energy guide, teacher and author. We talked with her about her new book The Current is Only But a Moment, and her work as an energy guide. For more information about Pamela, or to schedule an appointment either in person or on-line, visit her website or follow her on Facebook.

(And if you want to re-visit our interview with Mini Kiss, you can listen to that here.

Why? Episode 165- Musician Warren Ellis

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 04:00:00 -0400

You probably best know Warren Ellis from his violin playing with Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, or with The Dirty 3. Well, now Warren has a great new book out about a piece of gum chewed by Nina Simone before a performance.

It's the journey of this gum that is a tour through creativity, inspiration and the magic of performers and of items and how touching something so simple can really be.

You can order Nina Simone's Gum by Warren Ellis wherever you get your books. For more information on his current tour with Nick Cave and his upcoming tour with the Bad Seeds, check out the Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds website. You can learn more about Warren's work to rescue animals and about Ellis Park from their website. And you can follow Warren on Twitter.

Why? Episode 164- Rage Yoga with Lindsay Istace

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Sure, it'd be great to take time every week to stretch and meditate and become all zen, but, honestly, wouldn't it be a lot more enjoyable to tell your instructor to kiss your ass while you flip them off? Lindsay Istace thought so, and that's why she created Rage Yoga, a new take on the traditional New Age music and phrases said in different languages so no one knows what they're saying.

Lindsay talked about the creation of Rage Yoga, its spread and her new book on the subject, "Rage Yoga: Unleashing the Badass Within," available next month. (Just in time for the holidays!) For more information, check out the Rage Yoga website.

Why? Episode 163- LEGO Master Eric Hunter

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Eric Hunter is a legit LEGO master. Starting with his work for the LEGO company and creating many buildings for LEGO Lands around the world, Eric now freelances, creating LEGO sculptures and artwork for people and companies around the world.

For more info and to see some of Eric's amazing work, check out his website, The Art of LeGogh.

Why? Episode 162- Bossaball with Filip Eyckmans

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Let's face it; as we come out of the quarantine, you're going to want a new and exciting sport to watch. Thank goodness Filip Eyckmans has created Bossaball. Combining soccer, volleyball, trampolining and music, it's not only fascinating to watch, it's fun too.

We talked with Filip about how he created the sport and how it's taking the world by storm. And lest you think this is just a bunch of scantily clad Europeans bouncing around on the beach, think again. They're also doing something to help troubled kids as well.

For more information on the sport and how you can get involved, check out the Bossaball website.

Why? Episode 161- Chris Rowan from Buffalo Bill's House

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Ever watched Silence of the Lambs and thought, 'I wish I could stay at Buffalo Bill's house?' Well, it's your lucky day because now you can. This week we talked with Chris Rowan, who bought the house, restored it, and now is opening it up for guests. Eat in the dining room where Bill was confronted by Clarice. Get your tuck on in Buffalo Bill's workspace. Would we stay here? We would stay here so hard. For more information, check out their website, or give them a call, 1-833-BUFFBILL

Why? Episode 160- Mystery Science Theater 3000's Emily Marsh & Conor McGriffin

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 04:00:00 -0400

This week we're off to the Satellite of Love as we talk with Conor McGriffin (better known for his work as Tom Servo) and Emily Marsh (better known as Emily Connor on the MST3K live show... but coming to TV soon!) We learned about the hard work of watching bad movies and trying to make them enjoyable. What they brought to their characters and whether it's easier to watch a new terrible movie each week, or watch the same one for months.

For more information on the show and the new episodes featuring Emily & Conor, check out the MST3K website. Get tickets to see Emily and Conor on the Time Bubble Live show here and, of course, check out their personal websites, if you're into that kind of thing.

Why? Episode 159- Nellie Lillie from the National Roller Skating Museum

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 04:00:00 -0400

This week, we lace up our skates and talk with Nellie Lillie from the National Roller Skating museum. We examine the history of the sport and where it is now. We also try to wrangle an invitation to skate through the museum.

For more information, check out the museum's website. You can also find them on Instagram, which is one of Heidi's favorite follows.

Why? Episode 158- Actor, Stunt Coordinator and Model Raymond Vinsik Williams

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 04:00:00 -0400

All rise- this week we talked with actor, stunt coordinator and model Raymond Vinsik Williams. Raymond has been keeping pretty busy, pandemic been damned. He's going to be in a new project that we definitely can't talk about, but it's be exciting, if we could talk about it. For more information on Raymond, check him out on Instagram.

Why? Episode 157- One Man Star Wars Actor Charles Ross

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 06:00:00 -0400

For those of you who wish there were less people in the original Star Wars trilogy, Charles Ross is your guy. Charles performs a one-man show (titled 'One Man Star Wars,' to drive home the point) where he tells the entire story by himself. It's impressive.

For more information on where Charles will be performing next, check out his website, or find him on Facebook.

Why? Episode 156- Film Composer Lauren Culjak

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 04:00:00 -0400

You've heard this week's guest, even if you don't know it. Lauren Culjak has written music for TV shows like Nancy Drew and Love, Victor. (Oh, and she had a song on Rick & Morty... no big deal.) She's also written the score for the new film Long Weekend.

For more information on Lauren, check out her website.

Why? Episode 155- Disney's Dreamfinder, Ron Schneider

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 04:00:00 -0400

For many of us, growing up in the 1980s meant a trip to EPCOT Center at Disney World. And, if you're going to EPCOT, you're going to come across the Dreamfinder and his dragon, Figment.

This week, we talk with the original Dreamfinder, Ron Schneider. Ron has dedicated his life to reinventing performance, and creating something interesting as he worked to make the audience the part of every show.

Why? Episode 154- Air Supply's Graham Russell

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Generations have fallen in love to the music of this week's guest. As one half of the popular duo Air Supply, Graham Russell has written some of the most romantic songs of all time, and brought that music to audiences around the world.

Air Supply is currently on tour and selling out arenas around the world. For more information, you can check out their website here.

Why? Episode 153- Comedian/Writer John Vorhaus

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0400

For his whole career, John Vorhaus has been helping people. From playing better poker, to writing sitcoms and now, to stand-up comedy, John is the encouraging voice by your side as you head out and try something that you've always wanted to do; but is a little scary.

For more information on John, or to pick up any of his books, check out his website.

Why? Episode 152- Judith Harris on Producer Jack Harris

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Last week, we were thrilled to take part in the Colonial Theater's annual Blobfest. We got to talk with a lot of the folks who helped make Blobfest the great event it is.

We also got to talk with Judith Harris, whose husband Jack Harris, was the producer of The Blob and a bunch of other great films. For more information about Jack, check out The Blob's official website.

Why? Episode 151- Flat Track Racer Ben Lowe

Mon, 05 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0400

This week we head out to the track with racer Ben Lowe. How did he get into the sport? What exactly is the sport? And what's his career looking like as he moves onward. Ben was a blast to talk to and we learned about a whole new sport.

Why? Episode 150- Actress Jill Whelan

Fri, 02 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0400

If you're like us, you're spending the July 4th holiday onboard a fast cigarette boat, cruising around the marina, daring the police to catch you and yelling over a megaphone, "you'll never take me alive!" No? Just us?

Anyway, here's a special episode of Why? for you to listen to while you grill weenies and/or remove a few digits with firecrackers. We talked with Jill Whelan, better known to you and me as Vicki Stubing, daughter of the captain of the Love Boat. (You may also know Jill from her role in the classic film Airplane! (Jill's the sick girl whose IV keeps getting knocked out by an overzealous singing nun.)

We talked with Jill about hanging out with Andy Warhol, Joan Crawford and Dick van Dyke. Of course, we couldn't let our conversation go by without mentioning one of our shared best friends, Ted Lange.

Make sure to follow Jill on Twitter for the latest on what she's up to.

Why? Episode 149- Punk Rock Vegan Joshua Ploeg

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 04:00:00 -0400

What does Nick Cave eat to feel better? What about Morrissey? We talked with vegan punk rock chef Joshua Ploeg. Joshua has written a bunch of cook books and has been traveling the country sharing his vegan wares.

We talked with Joshua about his travels, his books and what makes vegan cooking just so punk rock. For more information, check out Joshua's website.

Why? Episode 148- The Truth About Lies with Author Aja Raden

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 07:00:00 -0400

Every single day, we are being lied to about... well, everything. This week we talked with author Aja Raden about her new book, The Truth About Lies. It's a fascinating look at lying and how we all fall for them and why we maybe shouldn't feel too bad about it?

The Truth About Lies is available right now, wherever you get books. You can follow Aja on Twitter or on Instagram. (And we're giving a way a copy of the book! Listen to the episode for details.)

Why? Episode 147- Numerologist Heather Schram

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 04:00:00 -0400

When we wanted to learn more about numerology, we got in touch with Heather Schram- and she said the best way to find out more was to just do it- so Heather read our charts. While Heather is giving us the reading, she's telling us more about her experience and what the numbers mean.

Heather is offering 50% off readings to Why listeners. Just use the 'Why' as the discount code at checkout on her website.

Why? Episode 146- Actor & Podcaster Peter Riegert

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Peter Riegert has stories. Stories from his acting career, which includes such films as Animal House and Local Hero. He also has stories from the people he's met along the way. Peter's podcast Vocal Hero offers a fascinating and unique conversation with every episode.

We sat down with Peter and had great talk that left us thinking about things for days afterward. For more information, you can check out Peter & the show's website.

Why? Episode 145- Orchestrator Extraordinaire Van Dyke Parks

Mon, 31 May 2021 04:00:00 -0400

The music of Van Dyke Parks has always taken you on a journey, replete with exquisite sounds and thoughtful concepts. His most recent collaboration is no different.

He never met Veronica Valerio, but the resulting album is no less compelling. We talked with Van Dyke about the new album, finger foods in Berlin, the Twentieth Century Fox theme music and the various books of the bible in this wide-ranging conversation. "Only In America," Van Dyke Parks orchestrates Veronica Valerio is available everywhere on June 11th.

And if that wasn't enough, we're giving away a copy of the EP... Listen to the very end of the show to learn how to enter!

Why? Episode 144- Matt Yorke and his Pembrokeshire Llamas

Mon, 24 May 2021 04:00:00 -0400

As the world begins to re-open, what better way to celebrate than going on walkies with a llama?

This week, we talked with Matt Yorke from Pembrokeshire Llamas about his Wales-based farm. We got into the relation you can get while out walking, good llama names and, of course, what to do with all that fur.

For more information, or to book a trek of your own, check out the Pembrokeshire Llamas website.

Why? Episode 143- Podcasting, Filmmaking and Tarps with Michael Stein

Mon, 17 May 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Michael Stein always cheers for the underdog. As an actor, filmmaker, podcaster and small business owner, Michael knows the hard work it takes to be successful.

His podcast Long Shot Leaders is designed to encourage us all as he talks with people who have made it, despite the long odds. Michael's company Abadak sells all kind of tarps.

On top of talking about podcasts, how to be sucessful, we have a little tarp talk as well. You can find Long Shot Leaders wherever you get your podcasts, and you can get your tarps at Abadak's website.

Why? Episode 142- Mark Stancil & Daniel Hancock from Terminus Media

Mon, 10 May 2021 04:00:00 -0400

We talked with Mark Stancil and Daniel Hancock from Terminus Media. They are a comic book company dedicated to telling stories originally told in the Bible. (So, maybe spoiler alert?) But if you hear that description and tune out, you should know that Davey & Goliath, or, to make a modern reference, Veggie Tales these are not.

Terminus is telling stories based on biblical characters, but focusing on the actual character and fleshing them out from their description in that other book, and try to make them more human. It's a great conversation as we learn more about comic books and that other book.

For more information, check out Terminus' website.

Why? Episode 141- Tribute- Our conversation with Tawny Kitaen

Sat, 08 May 2021 16:00:00 -0400

Here's an episode we didn't think we'd be releasing this weekend.

If you haven't heard, actress and model Tawney Kitaen passed away last night at age 59. Not much more is known about her death, but, like many people, we were pretty surprised.

We interviewed Tawny last summer and had some technical issues, so we were trying our best to make everything sound better. In light of today's news, we decided to release what we had as a thank you to Tawny for talking with us.

We can't pretend we knew her well, but we are thankful that she opened up with us and gave us her time. And so it goes...

Why? Episode 140- The Satanic Temple

Mon, 03 May 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Hi there! Hope you're doing well and enjoying the great weather as we enter a new season. And when we think about sun and flowers and dandelions, we think Satan. (Well, we don't, but we wanted to segue to this week's guests.)

This week we talked with Kym and Nick from The Satanic Temple. We had a great conversation, learning more about the work of the Temple and their beliefs. They're not a scary bunch- they were kind, welcoming and happy to answer our questions and explain more about their beliefs.

For more information, and to find a Temple near you, check out their website. We'll see you at coffee hour!

Why? Episode 139- Bee Keepers Paul & Lynda Violassi

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 05:00:00 -0400

To the uninitiated, bee keeping seems like a scary and dangerous hobby. But for Paul and Lynda Violassi, it's all in a day's work. They are the owners of Violassi Farm, located in Davisburg, Michigan.

We talked with Paul and Lynda about how they got into the hobby, how hard it is to take care of the bees and what they do with all that honey. For more information, check out the Violassi Farm on Facebook.

Why? Episode 138- Music Great Steve Cropper

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 04:00:00 -0400

This week we talked with the legendary Steve Cropper.

"Hey, hold on a minute Slappy(s)," we hear you say. "'Legendary' is strong words." You're right, it is. But when you're talking about someone who co-wrote "Green Onions," and "Soul Man" and "Sitting on the Dock of the Bay," forgive us for throwing around the 'L' word.

Steve has a new record out called "Fire It Up," and it does what he has done his entire career; it rocks. We talked with Steve about the new album, but we also talked about what it was like at Stax Records (!) during their heyday. We also talked about his friend (!!) Otis Redding.

What else can we tell you? Steve was great fun and very kind (it's that southern gentleman thing) AND told us what a bush hog is. What more do you want to know?

Just listen to the thing.

Why? Episode 137- How to Take Your Clothes Off with Matthew McDermott

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 04:00:00 -0400

It's spring, the days are longer, the sun is brighter and the temperatures are a little bit higher- it seems like the perfect time to take off your clothes and enjoy your day.

We talked with nudist Matthew McDermott about his book How to Take Your Clothes Off and his work as an author and blogger to help spread the acceptance and understanding of non-sexual nudity. You can read his great blog and order his book from his website.

Why? Episode 136- Actress Liz Priestley

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 04:00:00 -0400

If you had to choose your screen debut, you could do worse than playing the significant other of Idris Elba. And, Liz Priestley was just that fortunate. Liz co-stars in Concrete Cowboy, the most recent film from Netflix. It tells the story of a boy who meets up with the Fletcher Street Riding Club in Philadelphia and who rediscovers his father on horseback.

We talked with Liz about the new film, the difference in preparing for a stage performance vs film and whether she offered to act alongside her co-star should he ever get the job portraying a certain British secret agent who is also known as a prime number.

Why? Episode 135- Dog Bark Park

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 04:00:00 -0400

This week, pull out your best canine puns because we're talking with the creators and owners of the popular Dog Bark Park B&B.

You've seen it on countless roadside attraction shows, and celebrations of the unique and memorable buildings, but this week, we get under the collar and talk with Frances Conklin, co-owner of the popular B&B.

And if sleeping inside a dog wasn't enough. Frances and her husband are artists and in the gift shop located right next to Big Willy (that's the name of the 12 ft Beagle you can sleep inside, you can get all sorts of creative dog art, including art made by chainsaw.

For more information check out their website.

Why? Episode 134- Puppet Engineer Randy Erskine

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 04:00:00 -0400

How do puppets do all those things that make them look so alive? That's the work of this week's guest- puppet engineer Randy Erskine. Randy works for Selberg Studios helping build hand-crafted puppets that have been used by puppeteers around the world. (You also might have seen their work in the movies Best in Show and Goosebumps.)

For more information on Randy and his impressive work, check out the Selberg Studios website.

Why? Episode 133- Actress Kimie Muroya

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 04:00:00 -0400

If the phrase 'coming-of-age-movie' makes your skin crawl, just wait until you see Antarctica. It's a unique and wonderfully written and produced film. This week we talked with actress Kimie Muroya, who stars in the film along with Chloe Levine.

If Monday's Oscar nominations has you thinking good movies need to be pretentious and long and boring, check this one out- it's a fun one.

Why? Episode 132- Actor Ted Lange

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 04:00:00 -0500

Would it shock you if we said that our conversation with Ted Lange was exciting and new? Because it was. Ted was wonderful, telling us all about his career, his time on The Love Boat and how his career has only grown and expanded since the show ended.

Heidi told Ted about her celebrating his birthday every year and he wasn't the least bit scared. Needless to say, we are fans of Ted and his work. Come aboard, we've been expecting you.

Rock n Roll Grad School Starts Next Week!

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0500

Hello there ladies and gentlemen! Hello there ladies and gents- are you ready to rock?

Starting March 10th, we're launching a brand new podcast all about music.

It's called Rock n Roll Grad School and will feature interviews with singers, songwriters, DJs, producers, scholars and the occasional roadie. We're releasing a bunch of episodes as an opening act, and we can't wait for you to hear who we got.

Subscribe to the show now so you don't miss an episode. We're on iTunes, Spotify and wherever you subscribed to Why? And follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Why? will still continue, with all sorts of unique conversations and we're are excited for our next episode. It's both exciting AND new.

Rock on!

Why? Episode 131- Video Game Voice & Podcast Host Andrew Morrison

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 04:00:00 -0500

This week we get to talk with another podcaster and learn about his show and his work.

Andrew Morrison is a voice over actor and has provided voices for all sorts of characters and projects. He also hosts The Voice Over Coffee Shop, a new podcast dedicated to learning more about the voice over world and encouraging each other in finding their path.

For more information, you can check out the podcast's website.

Why? Episode 130- Eating Bugs with Massimo Reverberi

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 05:00:00 -0500

Let's face it, we're going to have to change the way we eat. And we're not talking about the sleeve of Oreos you ate while standing over the sink last night. (Or was that just us?)

With the population of the earth growing, we are now turning to new ways to get the protein our bodies need. We talked with Massimo Reverberi from Bugsolutely about the future of food. Bugsolutely is making pasta out of crickets as well as exploring all the other ways people can create delicious food out of bugs. For more information on Bugsolutely, check out their website.

Why? Episode 129- Musician Damon Johnson

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 05:00:00 -0500

Damon Johnson grew up loving Thin Lizzy, so it was a dream come true when he was offered a spot in the band. And if that wasn't enough, Damon has also played with folks like Sammy Hagar, Faith Hill, Alice Cooper AND he was a member of the popular band Brother Cane.

Damon has a brand new record out, with his new band, The Get Ready. Battle Lessons is an album designed to be played loud. We recommend doing just that. Check out our interview with Damon and then get your copy of Battle Lessons!

For more information, check out Damon's website.

Why? Episode 128- Writer Bruce Vilanch

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 04:00:00 -0500

Bruce Vilanch is a comedy legend.

He's an awards show writing EGOT (having written for the Emmys, Grammys, Oscars AND Tonys), and also written for Better Midler, Donnie & Marie and Chewbacca. (Oh, did you miss episode 120 where we talked about the Star Wars Holiday Special with Bruce?) He's also well known for his appearances on Hollywood Squares. ("Bruce Vilanch for the block!")

Why? Episode 127- Author/Playmate/Actress Carrie Stevens

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 04:00:00 -0500

Carrie Stevens memoir "Unrated," sets a new bar for memoirs. Carrie isn't afraid to name names and tell some amazing stories about her fascinating life.

Starting off in Massachusetts before heading to LA, Carrie talks all about her modeling career and her time with Eric Carr, the love of her life. Eric was the drummer for Kiss from 1981 until his untimely passing from heart cancer in 1991.

We had a great time talking with Carrie about her stories, her work and what she's up to now. For more information, check out her website.

Why? Episode 126- Extreme Pogo with XPogo's Russ Kaus

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 04:00:00 -0500

No matter your age, no matter your philosophy, bouncing up and down on a pogo stick is fun. But the things the Xpogo stunt team are doing on a stick are on a different level all together.

We talked with Russ Kaus from the stunt team about how he got into extreme pogo, the insane tricks that he does on a stick and the world record he held... for a hot minute. (Or 5.)

For more info, check out the Xpogo website. You can also find them on YouTube for a sampling of some of their more insane tricks.

Why? Episode 125- Fran Capo, the World's Fastest Talking Woman

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 04:00:00 -0500

If you're looking for a boost of encouragement this week, have we got the guest for you. Fran Capo is the world's fastest talking woman. But that's not all. She also is a stand-up comic, motivational speaker, written 22 books and holds 9 Guinness World Records.

We talked with Fran about all her accomplishments, including her record for book signings at the highest point in the world and at the wreck of the Titanic. It's the perfect conversation to get up and get going on that project you've been thinking of starting.

For more information on Fran, check out her website.

Untethered & Wanderwise: Female Travel Over 45

A travel podcast for women over 45 who want to explore this big beautiful world.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Why? Episode 124- Musician Matthew Sweet

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 04:00:00 -0500

We have loved the music of Matthew Sweet for decades and we were thrilled to talk with Matthew on the release of his 15th solo album. Catspaw is everything you love about Matthew's music, plus a few new colors as he played every instrument on the record, save the drums.

We talks about a lot with Matthew- songwriting, his cats, Big Star and the lasting influence of his breakthrough record Girlfriend. We had a blast.

Matthew's new record, Catspaw is available wherever you buy or download music. Check out his website for more info and, hopefully, some tour dates.

Untethered & Wanderwise: Female Travel Over 45
A travel podcast for women over 45 who want to explore this big beautiful world.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Why? Episode 123- Terrorist hunter/Author/Tech Expert/Ballroom Dancer Mark Herschberg

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 04:00:00 -0500

It's hard to describe Mark Herschberg in one sentence. He has written a book, The Career Toolkit, to help folks by giving them the information they don't usually get in school. And Mark's life has been one of things learned outside of a traditional classroom. He's been a competitive ballroom dancer. He has over 400 cufflinks. He's helped catch terrorists. Oh, and he's taught at MIT. There's a lot you can learn from listening to Mark, either in this interview or in his book.

For more information, check out his website.
Untethered & Wanderwise: Female Travel Over 45
A travel podcast for women over 45 who want to explore this big beautiful world.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Why? Episode 122- Erotic Baking with Niki Novak from Sweet N Nasty

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 04:00:00 -0500

Let's start off 2021 with a couple of truths: Everyone loves baked goods. Everyone loves food shaped like body parts. So, why not combine the two and sell cakes shaped like breasts, penises, butts and vaginas for almost half a century?

That was the question Niki Novak asked when she started Sweet-n-Nasty in Boston, MA. The store has become an institution, a go-to for bachelor & bachelorlette parties, retirements and anytime you want to have a laugh while you put something delicious in your mouth. For more information on Sweet n Nasty, check out their website, and tell them we sent you.

Untethered & Wanderwise: Female Travel Over 45
A travel podcast for women over 45 who want to explore this big beautiful world.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Why? Episode 121- Chuck Berry Documentarian Jon Brewer

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 04:00:00 -0500

Chuck Berry was one of a kind. You can't hear any one of his songs without instantly recognizing his guitar playing. We talked with Jon Brewer, the director of the new film, "Chuck Berry- the Original King of Rock n' Roll," about Berry's life and career, and about what Jon has learned from a lifetime spent working in the music industry.

"Chuck Berry- the Original King of Rock n' Roll," is now available to rent on Amazon.
Untethered & Wanderwise: Female Travel Over 45
A travel podcast for women over 45 who want to explore this big beautiful world.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Why? Episode 120- Celebrating Life Day with Bruce Vilanch

Thu, 24 Dec 2020 04:00:00 -0500

Any Star Wars fan worth their salt knows that Life Day is an important part of any holiday celebration. We talked with writer Bruce Vilanch who, on top of writing for 14 Oscar ceremonies also contributed to the much maligned 1977 TV special, The Star Wars Holiday Special. We'll bring you the full interview with Bruce at a later day, but we couldn't let the holiday season go by without pausing to celebrate.

Happy holidays from all your friends at Why.

Nigel, is that you?

Why? Episode 119- A Christmas Story with Scott Schwartz

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 04:00:00 -0500

You can't escape A Christmas Story every time this year and that's a good thing- it's a great movie. We talked with Scott Schwartz, one of the stars of the film (as well as star of The Toy and Kidco) about his holiday memories, and what the movie means to him and its many fans.
Untethered & Wanderwise: Female Travel Over 45
A travel podcast for women over 45 who want to explore this big beautiful world.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Why? Episode 118- Talking Kiss & the Phantom with author Ron Albanese

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 04:00:00 -0500

You know our show- you wanted the best, you got the best. And this week, we got one of the best when it comes to Kiss. Ron Albanese has been obsessed with the classic TV movie "Kiss Meets the Phantom of the Park," since it first aired in October of 1978. Ron's new book Conversations with Phantoms is a great behind-the-scenes look at the movie that has become legend among both film and Kiss fans.

For more information about Ron and the book, check out his Facebook page.
Untethered & Wanderwise: Female Travel Over 45
A travel podcast for women over 45 who want to explore this big beautiful world.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Why? Episode 117- The Disney Quiz with Banter? I Hardly Know Her (Bonus!)

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 05:00:00 -0500

We thought we knew a few things about the Walt Disney Company, their various products and the possible location of their founder's frozen remains. Well, we were wrong- or were we?

We talked with Perry and Wes from the popular podcast Banter? I Hardly Know Her and they tested us with their difficult Disney quiz. Do you know which voice actor Luke has the e-mail of? Do you know which character Heidi wanted to fight? Learn all these fun facts and more.

You can follow Banter? I Hardly Know Her on Facebook and Instagram, and find their podcast wherever you download such things.

Why? Episode 116- Morticians & Podcasters Minda and Kristi

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 05:00:00 -0500

Death can be a scary thing. But for Minda and Kristi, it's just another work day. They are morticians. (And, also podcasters.) They host the popular show Dead Girls Talking. We got to talk to them about how you get into this business, what makes for good embalming music and the huge responsibility they have to the decedent and their family.

For more information and to listen to their show, check out their website.

Why? Episode 115- Firefighter and Inventor Sarah Apgar

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 04:00:00 -0500

You may have seen Sarah Apgar on a recent episode of Shark Tank. And if you did, you know all about FitFighter, the program she developed to change exercise for everyone, using techniques and ideas she came up with while serving in the Army and as a volunteer firefighter. Yeah, Sarah is impressive.

We talk about the FitFighter program, how she created it, and what it's like to turn on the siren on the firetruck. You know, all the important stuff.

For more information on Sarah and Fitfighter, check out the website.

Why? Episode 114- Actress Shannan Wilson (Bonus!)

Fri, 27 Nov 2020 05:00:00 -0500

You'll be seeing more of actress Shannan Wilson soon. Not only did she star in the new movie Sno Babies, (now available on Amazon,) but she also just started shooting a role in the new Ryan Murphy show about designed Halston. From her life in Philadelphia to the design of some of the most famous gowns in history, we had a lot to talk with Shannan about.

For more information, you can check out Shannan's website.

Why? Episode 113- Beatle Stepmother Angie McCartney

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 04:00:00 -0500

What does that Beatles song say? Your mother should know?
Well, she does. And so does your step-mother. We sat down with Angie McCartney, Paul's step-mother. Angie was a Beatles fan before she ever met Jim McCartney, seeing them play at the Cavern Club in Liverpool. After she met and fell in love with Jim, she was whisked up in Beatlemania.
What was Paul like with his family? How crazed did Beatles fans get at the peak? Where did Paul get those bird sounds for Blackbird? Angie tells us all. For more information, you can follow her and watch Teaflix, her live chat show on Facebook.

Why? Episode 112- Waxer Jessica Keesling

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 03:00:00 -0500

Much like explorers or scientists, who venture into areas that mere mortals are intimidated by, so goes Jessica Keesling. Jessica is the owner of Heavenly Day spa in Auburn Hills, Michigan. She spends her time helping her clients look and feel their best, both upstairs and down, if you catch our drift.

Jessica answered all our many questions with humor and honesty- how gnarly was business after the quarantine lifted and her regular clients returned? Does she have a look book for people who can't make up their mind? Is it really, 'you've seen one, you've seen 'em all?'

For more information, check out the Heavenly Day Spa on Facebook and on Instagram.

Why? Episode 111- Singer/Songwriter Jules Shear

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 03:00:00 -0500

Is there anything better than a perfectly written pop song? And, when you're talking about great music, you're most definitely talking about Jules Shear. With his 14th solo album coming out on Friday, what better time to talk with Jules about his writing, his outlook on music and his new dog? (The album is titled "Slower," and, honestly, do we need to tell you if it's good or not? It's Jules Shear- the man doesn't mess around.)

For more information, you can follow Jules on Facebook, or you can check out his website.

Why? Episode 110- Comedian Yakov Smirnoff (Bonus!)

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 04:00:00 -0500

What a country!

As votes are being counted, we thought we could all use a little distraction and a little optimism as the US undergoes this most American of processes- the presidential election.

Comedian Yakov Smirnoff grew up in Ukraine and found success on the comedy stages of America, performing for Johnny Carson, US Presidents and he had his own sitcom. His unique insight into the differences in cultures made him a unique voice in stand-up during its heyday in the 1980s.

For more information on Yakov, you can visit his website or follow him on Twitter.

Why? Episode 109- Champion Duck Caller Chad Belding

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 04:00:00 -0500

Chad Belding grew up in a duck blind. Well, not literally, but close enough. As a championship duck caller, Chad has expanded his lifestyle into a business. We talked with Chad about the making of a duck call, what goes into a duck call, and how a duck answers.

For more information on Chad, you can check out his website, or follow him on Twitter or Instagram.

Why? Episode 108- Scream Queen Suze Lanier-Bramlett

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 03:00:00 -0400

Susan Lanier-Bramlett broke into film with the 1977 classic horror film, The Hills Have Eyes. But Suze has had quite the life, both before and after she worked with Wes Craven. We talked with Suze about her career and her life with her late husband, musician Delaney Bramlett. For more information on Suze, you can follow her on Twitter.

Why? Episode 107- Haunted House Designer Leonard Pickel

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Leonard Pickel has spent his life scaring people. As a designer of haunted houses, he's worked around the world, creating spaces that will scare the pants off of mere mortals. (He's also a Trivial Pursuit question.) If you've been to Six Flags Great America or Universal Studios in Orlando or Madison Scare Garden in NY, you've survived Leonard's work.

For more information, or to get some help building your own house of horrors, check out Leonard's website.

Why? Episode 106- Disney Legend Tom Nabbe

Mon, 12 Oct 2020 04:00:00 -0400

The last time Tom Nabbe paid to get into a Disney theme park, it was the opening day of Disneyland. The next day, he was personally hired by Walt to play Tom Sawyer at the park. And over 60 years later, Tom still worked for the Disney parks and had been named a Disney Legend. We talked to Tom about what Walt was really like and if the parks are truly the happiest places on earth.

For more information on Tom and to get a copy of his book, "Walt Hired Me", you can check out his website, or follow him on Facebook.

Why? Episode 105- The Penguin Lady, Dyan deNapoli

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 03:00:00 -0400

This week we talked with Dyan deNapoli, better known to all as The Penguin Lady. Dyan has devoted her life to helping save thousands of penguins. From oil spills, to potential extension, Dyan is speaking for these animals, so they can live on in their natural habitats for generations. Do they ever write her a thank you note? Dyan doesn't care, as long as the penguins are safe.

For more information, check out The Penguin Lady's website, or follow her on Twitter. You can also follow her on Facebook.

Why? Episode 104- Stripper Gurl Haggard

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 03:00:00 -0400

Yes, she dances, yes she doesn't wear clothes and, no, she doesn't dance to Oakie From Muskogee. This week we got to talk with Gurl Haggard about her career on the stage. How did she get there? What's her favorite part of the job? What about the least favorite? For more information on Gurl, you can check out her Twitter page, or you can subscribe to her Only Fans page.

Why? Episode 103- From Prince & The Revolution, musician BrownMark

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 03:00:00 -0400

BrownMark spent years as one of the members of the amazingly talented, popular and influential band Prince and the Revolution. He's now written a memoir about his time in the band. My Life in the Purple Revolution is a honest and open book, honestly telling Mark's story and friendship with Prince.

You can follow BrownMark and keep up on his new music on his Facebook page and you can buy or order the book wherever you do such things.

Why? Episode 102- Matt Owens from the Unclaimed Baggage Center

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Where do broken hearts go? Where did your luggage go? If you ever returned from vacation down one banana hammock and a beaten up John Grisham book, it's probably with this week's guest. We talked with Matt Owens from the Unclaimed Baggage Center. They buy up lost baggage from airlines and other travel companies and resell the contents. What's the weirdest thing they've ever found in a suitcase? Have any celebrities lost their Samsonite? And are anything they've found cursed? We get to the bottom of it all. For more information and to find some great deals, check out their website.

Why? Episode 101- First African American Female NFL Coach Collette V Smith

Mon, 07 Sep 2020 03:00:00 -0400

Collette V Smith is one of a kind. First as a professional football player for the New York Sharks where she made the team in 2011 at age 42 and then coaching for the Jets. Collette great up with a love for the game, but it was her knowledge and skills at motivating players that made her the first African American woman coach in the NFL.

Collette is now a motivational speaker and, after listening to our talk, we were ready to go take the field. For more information on Collette, check out her website.

Why? Episode 100- Drummer Richie Ramone

Mon, 31 Aug 2020 03:00:00 -0400

Hey! Ho! Let's Go!

This week we talk with another rock great- Richie Ramone. Richie made a mark in the band by bringing in great songs (and being the first person to sing on a Ramones record besides Joey). We talked about Richie's time with the band, what other musical adventures he's been on, where he's headed next and what Joey & Johnny really were like.

For more information on Richie, check out his website.

Why? Episode 99- Professional Mini Golf

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 03:00:00 -0400

Mini golf- it's a sport one can learn in minutes, but not master until decades later. Maybe watching the PGA is fun, but can you play on the same course as those clowns? No, you can't. But you can play the Mossy Creek course in Jefferson City, TN.

We talked with Kyle Cutshaw, the owner and general manager of Mossy Creek, who will be hosting the Tennesee Open, August 29th.

And if that wasn't enough, we talked with professional mini golfer Danny Baddeley. Both of them gave us an inside look at the sport whose windmills have waylaid many a man.

For more information on Mossy Creek, check them out at their website and you can follow and cheer on Danny on Twitter. (For more information on the USPMGA, you can check out their website or follow them on Twitter.)

Plus, we're starting a newsletter! Sign up at our website!

Why? Episode 98 (Bonus!)- Competitive Dog Grooming with Rebecca Stern

Thu, 20 Aug 2020 03:00:00 -0400

Competitive dog grooming. It's a thing. And it's a really popular thing. We talked with Rebecca Stern, director of the new documentary Well Groomed, which gives an inside look to this fascinating world. You can watch Well Groomed right now, streaming on HBO Max.

Why? Episode 97- A History of Contraception with Donna Drucker

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Dr Donna Drucker is a historian and her most recent book is a fascinating look at the history of contraception across the ages. We talk about her book and why Americans are so uptight in this interview. You can find out more about Donna at Women Know History Too and order her book here.

Why? Episode 96- Action Park with Andy Mulvihill

Mon, 10 Aug 2020 03:00:00 -0400

Everyone has fun memories of the local amusement park that they went to every summer growing up. Action Park, in Vernon, NJ is memory for many people. And what is that memory of? Dangerous rides, frequent injuries and even a couple of deaths.

Action Park, "Where you control the action," was known by many nicknames, Class Action Park, Traction Park, Accident Park, but whatever you call it, you never forget it.

Andy Mulvihill, son of Action Park's creator, Gene Mulvihill has written a new book about his memories of not only the park, but also how it came to be. Action Park was like no other place and, if the lawyers have their way, will never be again.

Andy's book "Action Park: Fast Times, Wild Rides and the Untold Story of America's Most Dangerous Amusement Park," is available from Penguin Books and wherever you order books.

Why? Episode 95- Cornhole with ACL Commissioner Stacey Moore

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 03:00:00 -0400

Cornhole is sweeping the nation. And don't just believe us. Believe ESPN, who are devoting almost 30 hours of time to the sport this week. We sat down with American Cornhole League Commissioner Stacey Moore to talk about how this sport went pro, how good you have to be to go pro and why Roger Goodell isn't taking his calls... just yet.

Why? Episode 94- Baseball Groundskeeper Paul Zwaska

Mon, 27 Jul 2020 03:00:00 -0400

Paul Zwaska knows how to take care of a baseball field. He was the head groundskeeper for the Baltimore Orioles for 15 years. Now, he works with groundskeepers across the world in keeping their fields ready for play. We learned about some of the stresses of the job, and one of the nicest things Cal Ripken Jr ever said to him. For more information on Paul, you can follow him on Twitter and you can check out Beacon Athletics, the company Paul works with, for all of your grounds keeping goods & information.

Why? Episode 93- Talking Head Chris Frantz

Mon, 20 Jul 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Chris Frantz is music royalty. As a founding member of Talking Heads and Tom Tom Club, he's created some of the drum beats that you've hear many times over.

Now Chris has a new book out about his life. It's called "Remain in Love: Talking Heads, Tom Tom Club, Tina" is available from St. Martin's Press. You can also follow Chris on Twitter.

Why? Episode 92 (Bonus!)- Music Great John Ellison

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 03:00:00 -0400

John Ellison is one of the great songwriters of all time. His "Some Kind of Wonderful," is known the world over as a classic and it's been covered by a wide array of musicians. John has just released a new song, "Wake-Up Call (Black Like Me)" and it's a powerful statement and indictment of the times we are living in.

But it wasn't all serious with John. He also let us sing backup with him. He's likely regretting that decision. For more information on John, check out his website. "Wake-Up Call (Black Like Me) can be downloaded from wherever you get your digital music.

Why? Episode 91- Poly Dom Writer Tammy Jo Eckhart

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 03:00:00 -0400

It's hard to succinctly describe Tammy Jo Echkart. She's a writer. A chocolate priestess. A poly dom. A woman who shares her house with both her husband and her submissive. We talked about all of this with Tammy Jo in a fascinating conversation. For more information on Tammy Jo and to find her writings, check out her website.

Why? Episode 90 (Bonus!)- Blobfest 2020 with Bob Trate

Wed, 08 Jul 2020 15:00:00 -0400

We've had Bob Trate on the show before, to talk about one of the great genre film festivals in the country- Blobfest. The Colonial Theater in Phoneixville, PA (where they filmed the 1958 class film The Blob) has been home to the festival for the past 20 years.

This year, unfortunately, they were forced to cancel the in-person celebration. But now anyone, anywhere gets to join in the fun. Friday and Saturday of this week, take part in the celebration and get some great Blob swag while you're at it.

For tickets and t-shirts and posters and pins, check out the Colonial's website.

Why? Episode 89- You Don't Nomi with director Jeffrey McHale

Mon, 06 Jul 2020 03:00:00 -0400

What better way to say 'Happy Birthday America,' than to talk about Showgirls. The Paul Verhoeven (classic?) film made a mark on film goers from it's opening weekend. (We know because Heidi was there.)

We sat down with Jeffrey McHale, director of the great new documentary You Don't Nomi, where he examines the obsession people have with Nomi Malone and why we all aren't done talking about Showgirls.

You Don't Nomi, is now available for rent from the film's website. We recommend it.

Why? Episode 88- Music Great Suzi Quatro

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 03:00:00 -0400

Suzi Quatro was one of the first female bass player to make it big in rock. She also was a television star, playing Leather Tuscadero on Happy Days. There's a new documentary, called Suzi Q, where Suzi leads you through her amazing life. We got to talk with Suzi prior to the film's release and learn about her friendship with Debbie Harry, where she celebrated her 50th birthday and so much more.

For more information on the film, check out their website. (There's a virtual premiere July 1st with Suzi doing a Q&A after the movie... Get your tickets here.) We also have video of our talk with Suzi on our YouTube page.

Why? Episode 87- Pizza Tours with Scott Wiener

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 03:00:00 -0400

Scott Wiener knows a thing or two or three or four about pizza. He offers guided tours of different pizzerias in New York City, but that's not all. He also is a writer & columnist for Pizza Today magazine and holds the world record for owning the most pizza boxes. We talked with Scott about the tour, what makes a good pizza and the history of the most wonderful food group ever. For more information on Scott's tours & classes, check out his website, and for more information about his charity dedicated to helping feed front-line health care workers, check out the Slice Out Hunger website.

Why? Episode 86- Jeopardy Champion & Author Sarah Jett Rayburn

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 03:00:00 -0400

Not only is Sarah Jett Rayburn a Jeopardy! champion- she's a four time Jeopardy! champion. We sat down to talk with Sarah about nerves, the backstage area at the show and her new book which just came out. For more information on Sarah, follow her on Twitter, and your can order her books on Amazon.

Why? Episode 85- Naked Skydiving with Jeff Dawson

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 03:00:00 -0400

If you're Jeff Dawson, jumping out of a plane isn't enough. He'd rather do it naked. And he's done so 814 times. (And counting.) Believe it or not, it's harder to do a naked jump than a clothed one. And, the Guinness people don't keep records, so it's up to Jeff and his friends at SANS (The Society for the Advancement of Naked Skydiving) to keep the records. For more information, or to join, check out their website.

Why? Episode 84- US Olympic Synchronized Swimmer Anita Alvarez

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 03:00:00 -0400

Synchronized swimming is hard work. Don't believe us? Listen to our conversation with US Olympic Synchronized Swimmer Anita Alvarez. We talk about the specifics about the sport, what drew her to the water and if the team might consider changing their performance music. For more information on the team, check out the Team USA website. And you can follow Anita on Twitter.

Why? Episode 83- Naked & Afraid Blur-er Erin T Gavin

Mon, 25 May 2020 03:00:00 -0400

There's only one way a show with the title Naked & Afraid is going to be making it to TV- that's with extensive graphic work. Erin Gavin was part of what they called, "The Blur Man Group," the group of visual effect engineers who spent painstaking hours covering all the contestants bits and bobs. Needless to say, there are some stories. For more information on Erin's work, or to learn more about visual effects, check out his website.

Why? Episode 82- Tennis Great & Podcast Host Patrick McEnroe

Mon, 18 May 2020 03:00:00 -0400

You may know Patrick McEnroe from his time on the tennis court, but now he's also hosting a new podcast called Holding Court. His show features conversations with celebrities who are also tennis fans.

We are thrilled to announce that we're now sharing a network with Patrick. Why and Holding Court are both part of the Mudd House podcast network. You can find out more about Patrick's show and the network at their website.

Why? Episode 81- Collecting Indiana Jones with Michael Miller

Thu, 14 May 2020 21:00:00 -0400

To say Michael Miller likes the Indiana Jones movies is a bit of a understatement. He has what much be the greatest collection of material related to the films in his Wisconsin home. We talked with Mike about how he started his collection, where he got some of his prized pieces from and whether or not he opened the Indy LEGO set. (For a full look around his collection, check out our website.)

Why? Episode 80- Effin' Birds with Aaron Reynolds

Mon, 11 May 2020 03:00:00 -0400

You may not know Aaron Reynolds, but you know his work. His Effin Birds twitter account has been a sensation, and just what many people need during these trying times. The concept is simple but brilliant- show pictures of birds with incredibly inappropriate captions. We talked with Aaron about his creation, how it got started and which bird is the easiest to write for. You can check out Effin Birds on Twitter or at their on-line store.

Why? Episode 79- Music Legend Cherry Vanilla

Mon, 04 May 2020 03:00:00 -0400

It's too difficult to explain all that Cherry Vanilla has done in a couple of sentences. She has led an amazing life and gotten to know many rock legends before becoming one herself. We got to talk with Cherry about her time working with David Bowie, her many friendships and whether music still retains that thrill for her that got her interested in the first place.

Why? Episode 78- Stuntwoman Rachel Harrison

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 03:00:00 -0400

Stuntwoman Rachel Harrison has done things we certainly wouldn't want to try. From skydiving, to being set on fire to being buried alive in cement... she's survived it and even gotten paid for it. We talked with Rachel about her career, how she got into the industry and what all of this feels like.

Why? Episode 77- Boober Eats with Shon Boulden

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 03:00:00 -0400

As the pandemic continues, small business owners are looking for new and inventive ways to stay open and take care of their customers as well as their staff. Shon Boulden at the Lucky Devil Lounge in Portland, Oregon has hit upon an idea that is downright brilliant- and he calls it Boober.

If you can't go to the strip club, why not have the strip club come to you? We talked with Shon about his bright idea and how quickly it has caught on. For more information on the Luck Devil Lounge, check out their website.

Why? Episode 76- Hair Collecting with John Reznikoff

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 03:00:00 -0400

John Reznikoff is one of the foremost autograph and ephemera dealers in the world. So when he decided he wanted to start collecting something, he wanted to pursue something that wouldn't be a conflict of interest. So he ended up collecting hair.

John owns the locks of Abraham Lincoln, John Wilkes Booth and Edgar Allan Poe, among others. We talked with John about his collection and how he authenticates something as personal as follicles. For more information on John's collection or to see what cool things he's auctioning off now, check out his company, University Archives.

Why? Episode 75- Quidditch with Mary Kimball

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 03:00:00 -0400

Quidditch isn't just for wizards anymore. The sport has evolved from the pages of J.K. Rowling and is now being played world wide by people (some of whom haven't even read the books).

We talked with Mary Kimball from US Quidditch about the origin of the sport, how they've adapted the rules for muggles and where the sport can go from here. For more information and to find a team near you, check out the US Quidditch website.

Why? Episode 74- Isolation Movies with Bob Trate (Bonus!)

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 03:00:00 -0400

With so much time on our collective hands, people everywhere are now looking for more movies to watch. We re-connected with Bob Trate from the Colonial Theater in Phoenixville, PA to talk about what he's been watching and one way you can stay involved with the local independent movie theater near you during this rough time.

For more information on the Colonial check out their website. And to join an on-line viewing party, check out the Colonial's Facebook page.

Why? Episode 73- XFL Tight End Jake Sutherland

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 03:00:00 -0400

We get all of our football questions answered when we talked with Jake Sutherland. Jake is a tight end for the XFL's New York Guardians. How many people are hitting him up for tickets? Who names the plays? Do signs in the stadium really encourage them? Check Jake out on Twitter, or visit the Guardians' website for more info.

Why? Episode 72- The Obama-Biden Mysteries with Andrew Shaffer

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 03:00:00 -0400

When you think of the perfect detective pair, maybe you think Crockett and Tubbs. Or Holmes and Watson. But you likely don't think of the 44th President and his Vice President.

Andrew Shaffer is here to change all that. He's the author of the Obama-Biden mysteries books that, while are a lot of fun for the politically informed, they're also actually really good mysteries.

We talked with Andrew about how he crafts his mysteries, why he settled on Biden and why the former Vice President is the perfect detective noir voice.

For more information on Andrew and all of the books he's written, check out his website.

Why? Episode 71- Heidi & Luke on The Love Pod Podcast (Bonus!)

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 10:00:00 -0400

Heidi and Luke were recently guests on The Love Pod, a podcast dedicated to discussing everything going on in the world of reality TV dating. They got together to talk about Love is Blind, the hit Netflix show. (In case you haven't binged it yet, you might want to give it a shot.)

For more info on the Love Pod, check out their site.

Why? Episode 70- The Star Wars AirBNB

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 03:00:00 -0400

If you're looking to get away, why not go to a galaxy far, far away?

We talked with Bryndee Barton from Loma Homes, the woman who oversaw the building of the home and talked over the details that they put into every room. For more information, or to book your time to stay at the Twelve Parsecs house, check out their website. You can also check out a gallery of the room inside the house at our website.

Why? Episode 69- Love is Blind with Mikey Cobb & Andy Rickert

Mon, 09 Mar 2020 03:00:00 -0400

Love is Blind is a reality TV show on Netflix. And it's popular. And if you didn't know this, we're thrilled to know they finally got you out from under that rock.

We talked with two contestants about their brief stay in the pods, what they learned about themselves and why Andy might be a bad traveling companion.

Why? Episode 68- The Art of Pigcasso with Joanne Lefson

Mon, 02 Mar 2020 03:00:00 -0500

When it comes to famous animals who paint, one swine who is taking the art world by storm is Pigcasso. When she's not painting in her barn in South Africa, she's designing Swatch watch bands and raising money to support the animal sanctuary where she resides. (And if that isn't enough, she's also bottled and about to start selling her own wine.)

We talked with Jo Lefson, who not only rescued Pigcasso, she discovered her unique talent. For more information, or to purchase a Pigcasso original, visit her website.

Why? Episode 67- Rage Rooms with Kea Tull

Mon, 24 Feb 2020 03:00:00 -0500

Who hasn't needed to blow off some steam? Who hasn't wanted to smash stuff? Well, thankfully, there's rage rooms. (And they're, forgive the pun, all the rage.) We talked with Kea Tull from the Philadelphia Rage Room about the creation of the room, what kind of music people like to smash to and who is the best rager?

For more information and to book your time in the room, check out their website. Rage on!

Why? Episode 66- Chess Boxing Champion Matt Thomas

Mon, 17 Feb 2020 03:00:00 -0500

Matt Thomas is a world champion chess boxer. As the first American to try the sport, Matt broke new ground in a sport that combines the brains needed for chess and the brawn needed to hit someone in the face repeatedly.

Matt talks with us about his strategy that he brought to the world championship and what gave him a leg up on his competition and about his charity that raises money through boxing.

For more information on Chess Boxing, check out their website, and to learn more about Matt's Brawl For a Cause program, check out their website.

Why? Episode 65- Dolphin Telepathy with writer Malcolm J Brenner

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 03:00:00 -0500

Malcolm Brenner is fascinated with the idea of dolphin telepathy. After a life long interest in dolphins, (and a romantic relationship with a dolphin named Dolly in the 1970s) Brenner sat down to talk with us about communication with animals and his two books, Wet Goddess and Mel-Khyor.

For more information on Malcolm, check out his website. You can also order his books on Amazon, and get the audio book of Mel-Khyor from Audible.

Why? Episode 64- Super Bowl Winning Mascot Dan Meers (Bonus Episode!)

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 03:00:00 -0500

Long before the Lombardi trophy was a glint in the eye of anyone in Kansas City, we sat down with KC Wolf himself, professional mascot Dan Meers.

Today, as the Kansas City Chiefs parade through their city as world champions, we re-visit our talk with Dan. (If you enjoy this sample, we highly recommend you check out the full interview and learn all of Dan's amazing story.)

For more information, to order a copy of Dan's book, or to book him to come speak to your group, check out his website.

Why? Episode 63- Flight Attendant Caroline Bright

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 03:00:00 -0500

You see them on every flight, but what are they thinking, how can they help you and, more importantly, how can you help them?

We sat down with flight attendant Caroline Bright to find out what is the most annoying thing for attendants, how they respond to emergencies and what drink you should never ask for when they come around with the beverage cart.

If Caroline's voice sounds familiar, that's because her side job is being a professional bridesmaid and we talked to her about that job in episode 29, which you can listen to here.

Why? Episode 62- The Horror Bowl with Bob Trate

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 03:00:00 -0500

The Colonial Theater in Phoenixville, PA is a great movie theater. Besides being the location of one of the most memorable horror films ever, (1958's The Blob), it also hosts a ton of wonderful events. And one of those events is The Horror Bowl on February 2nd. They'll be screening the three movies that make up John Carpenter's Apocalypse Trilogy. (That would be The Thing, Prince of Darkness and In the Mouth of Madness.) We talked with Bob Trate from the Colonial about the big event and traded movie fun facts.

For more information & tickets for the Colonial Bowl, check out their website.

Why? Episode 61- Fruitcake Tossing in Colorado (Bonus Episode!)

Thu, 23 Jan 2020 03:00:00 -0500

After the holidays have come and gone, you might find yourself surrounded by fruitcake. What's a person to do? Why not head outdoors and try throwing it as far as you can?

That's what they do every year in Manitou Springs, Colorado, where they have thrown fruitcakes for the past 24 years. We talked with Jenna Gallas from the Chamber of Commerce about the annual tradition, how it got started and, more importantly, where they get their fruitcakes from.

This year's event is being held this Saturday, January 25th from noon to 2:30. There'll be costume contests, a bake off, and, of course, the fruitcake feats of strength. For more information, check out their website.

Enjoy this special bonus episode of the show and we'll be back on Monday with more Why!

Why? Episode 60- LGBTQ Romance Author Quinn Anderson

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 03:00:00 -0500

Quinn Anderson is a writer. Starting off in fan fiction, she eventually moved on to novels, creating the popular Murmur Inc. series among her other work. She's also known for writing a how to write a sex scene article, which has been a beacon of light in a storm of bad fornication. You can follow Quinn on Facebook or Twitter, and her "smut fic" guide is definitely worth checking out. All of her books are available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble and at your local bookseller.

Why? Episode 59- Cosplay with Rachel Devine

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 03:00:00 -0500

Finally, a look under the helmet- this week we talk with cosplayer Rachel Devine. She talks with us about how long it took her to make her costume, what she's learned doing cosplay and why you always need to design keeping the forecast in mind.

Why? Episode 58- Curling with Team USA's Korey Dropkin

Mon, 06 Jan 2020 03:00:00 -0500

If you want to talk stone throwing and sweeping, Korey Dropkin is your guy. A member of Team USA’s curling team, Korey knows all the ins and outs far better than we do, and he’s doing great at it. (Just look at his performance in this season’s tournaments.) He answered all of our stupid questions with ease and grace.
To learn more about the team, check out their website. And to plead with Korey to name one of his brooms Flash, do that on twitter. (We’d also accept a broom named ‘Wonderboy,’ but you know where are hearts really are.)

Why? Episode 57- Talking Pete Seeger with Paul Suchow

Mon, 30 Dec 2019 03:00:00 -0500

As 2019 ends and we head into a new decade, now is as good a time as any to reflect on what we've done and what we could do better.

Pete Seeger was one of the people who was always trying to do better. From is multitudinous work with a wide variety of charities, Pete seemingly lived his life to try to make things better for people.

We were fortunate to talk with Paul Suchow, a musician and the music director at Surprise Lake Camp in New York, about his long friendship with Pete and what Pete taught him.

Happy New Year!

Why? Episode 56- Audiobook Narrator Sean Pratt

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 03:00:00 -0500

If you listen to audiobooks, you've probably heard Sean Pratt's voice. That's because Sean has narrated over 1,000 books. On top of that he also offers coaching, working with both writers who want to read their own work and aspiring narrators improve their skills.

We talk about some of his favorite books he's read, how to truly embody the personality of Paul Stanley (aka The Star Child) and why he rarely reads for fun anymore.

For more info on Sean, you can check out his website, or follow him on Facebook or Twitter.

Why? Episode 55- Deadtime Toys & Tattoos with Felix Cangas

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 03:00:00 -0500

Felix Cangas is an artist.

On top of being a tattoo artist in Denver, Colorado, he's made a splash with his Deadtime Toys. Felix works with tools that you wouldn't normally associate with My Pretty Pony or any Disney princess- a blowtorch. And what he creates is something wholly unique and memorable.

Listener note: This episode is pretty visual, so be sure to check out the photo album of Felix's work on our website. (Don't do this while you're driving, or unless you're really good at steering with your knees.)

Second listener note: Don't take anything we say seriously. You shouldn't drive with your knees. (Make sure to get an elbow in there too.)

For more information on Felix's art, check out his Facebook page, his Etsy page and Fortune Cookie tattoo, where you can get Felix's art directly onto your body.

Why? Episode 54- Professional Mermaiding with The Mermaid Phantom

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 03:00:00 -0500

So are things really better hotter under the water?

We talked with professional mermaid The Mermaid Phantom, who, on top of her numerous public appearances, also blogs & posts videos on YouTube about mermaiding. (Yes, that's the correct term.) We talk about tail care, what mermaids say and how much her career has changed her life and her outlook.

For more information on Mermaid Phantom, check out her website and her blog, or check out her YouTube page for some of her videos.

Why? Episode 53- Fruitcake with Hayden Crawford from Collin Street Bakery

Mon, 02 Dec 2019 03:00:00 -0500

If you want a fruitcake this holiday season, you need to go to the best. That's why we talked with Hayden Crawford from Collin Street Bakery. Apart from being one of the best-known and well-loved fruitcake purveyors in the world, it's a family business. Hayden talks about what makes the Collin Street Bakery fruitcake the classic it is, how much people love it (and include it in their wills) and whether or not he ever gets tired of it.

Plus, in this episode, we go through Flash's Gift Guide, giving you shopping ideas from our guests over the past year. There's bound to be something for everyone on your list. (If everyone on your list wants Cozy Love Pants.)

Why? Episode 52- Cheeks by Mail with Papa Cheeks

Mon, 25 Nov 2019 03:00:00 -0500

You ever get so mad at someone that you just want to send them a box full of ass-shaped gummies? Well, thank goodness for Cheeks by Mail. The company will anonymously sent a box of gummies that look like butts to anyone you'd like. It's just that simple.

How did he come up with the idea? What public figures has he sent gummies to? (We give you three guesses and the first two don't count.) We sat down with Alex, better known as Papa Cheeks, to get to the bottom (pun intended) of this brilliant business idea.

To order your own box of butt gummies, check out the Cheeks by Mail website. And use the code "cheapcheeks" for 30% off your order. (And tell them Flash sent ya!)

Why? Episode 51- The King of the Texas Renaissance Festival

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 06:00:00 -0500

When you're at the Texas Renaissance Festival, it's good to be the king.

The fest is the largest renaissance festival in the country, with over half a million visitors every year. Having run every year since 1974, this fest has become legendary. We sat down with the king of the fest, (who has reigned for more than 20 years) about what makes the festival so special and what he's learned after ruling for so long.

For more information on the festival and to get tickets, check out the festival's website.

Why? Episode 50- Astronaut Mike Mullane

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 03:00:00 -0500

Mike Mullane has spent over 350 hours in space on three different shuttle missions. If anyone can talk about what that's like, it's Mike.

So how does one become an astronaut? How scary is it lying in the shuttle, waiting for lift off and you hear someone say, 'there's a small fire?' And do you ever get tired of the view?

Mike's written several books about his career with NASA, Riding Rockets and Do Your Ears Pop In Space? You can also learn more about Mike and read his blog on his website.

For even more of our talk with Mike, check out our YouTube page, where he talks about the moment he officially became an astronaut.

Why? Episode 49- End of Life Care and Burlesque with Misty Lynn

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 03:00:00 -0500

At first blush, or maybe second, end of life care and burlesque don't really seem to go together. But, the more you think about it, they do. (Listen to the show and find out how.) Misty Lynn provides end of life care and is also a burlesque dancer. And while it isn't always a light-hearted conversation, our talk is fascinating and you'll learn a lot about both of her careers.

Why? Episode 48- Ben Franklin Impersonator Brian Patrick Mulligan

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0400

Brian Patrick Mulligan is Ben Franklin. And Teddy Roosevelt. And Winston Churchill. And he's been Charlie Chaplin, Oliver Hardy and Harpo Marx.

Brian isn't possessed, he's an impersonator, bringing history to life for people. Sometimes he talks to school or library groups. Sometimes he talks to corporations. Obviously he knows a few things about this founding father.

We talk with Brian about how he got into this line of work, some of his favorite quotes and what facts we've all been getting wrong about Franklin for decades.

For more information, or to book Brian, visit his website.

Why? Episode 47- NHL Zamboni Driver Ali Murdock

Mon, 21 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0400

Ali Murdock describes her job as 'living the dream.' And she is. Growing up wanting to work for the Tampa Bay Lightning, she now is the zamboni driver for the team she grew up loving.

What's the hardest part about driving a zamboni? Is it difficult? What other ice care is she responsible for? For more info on the Lightning, check out their website.

Why? Episode 46- Comic Book Writer Rob Feldman

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0400

Rob Feldman is the writer and creator of Cyko KO, a best-selling comic book series that has crossed over into a coloring book and an audio adventure. (You know, like the ones that have the bell when it's time to turn the page?)

We talk with Rob about creating a comic book for all ages, the feedback he gets from fans and his Ringo-nominated book.

For more info on Rob and Cyko, (and to pick up copies of the books) check out the Cyko KO website.

Why? Episode 45- The Gilligan's Island Fan Club with the President

Mon, 07 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0400

The Gilligan's Island fan club has been keeping the torches lit for the Professor, the Millionaire, Lovey, Mary Anne, Ginger, the Skipper and, of course, Gilligan for decades. What is it about this show that has created such a rabid fan base?

We're joined by the fan club president to talk about the phenomenon that is Gilligan's Isle, what got him into the show and we listen to the first pass at the theme song, before it was changed to the one we all know and love.

For more information, check out the fan club's website, where you will learn a ton of interesting facts about the show, including the fate of the SS Minnow.

Why? Episode 44- Professional Rodeo Clown Josh "Porkchop" Garrick

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0400

Professional rodeo clown Josh “Porkchop” Garrick is living his best life. Dreaming of the career since he was 5, Porkchop followed his dream and is now a rodeo clown on the PBR Bull Riding Tour.
What does a rodeo clown do? How badly can you get hurt? What was his first rodeo like?
For more information on Porkchop, and to find out where he will be appearing next, check out his Facebook page for more information.

Why? Episode 43- Cozy mysteries with Elizabeth Craig

Mon, 23 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0400

It may seem antithetical- a story about a gruesome crime where the details are deliberately kept fuzzy so that it doesn't upset the reader. It's also an incredibly popular genre in crime fiction.

This week we got to talk with Elizabeth S Craig, the best-selling author of the Myrtle Clover, Southern Quilting and Memphis Barbeque series. And if that isn't enough work for one person, Elizabeth has just launched her latest series, the Village Library Mysteries.

Elizabeth talked about how she got into writing, how much she writes every day (spoiler: it's an impressive amount), and how much of mystery writing is applicable to the old 'write what you know' adage.

You should check out Elizabeth's website, which includes her great blog about writing and links to all the different websites and bookstores where you can get her books. And on our YouTube page, check out a bonus clip, where we talk with Elizabeth about what she reads for fun and living a writing life.

Why? Episode 42- Erotic Disney stories with Blu Carson

Mon, 16 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0400

There's been a lot of books written about Disney World, but nothing like Blu Carson's Dark Rides: Erotic Theme Park Adventures. Blu talked with us about the inspiration for the book, what she's learned from writing the book and when (if ever) Volume Two of her book will be coming out.

And, for more Blu, check out our YouTube page, where you can listen to an outtake from our interview where she talks about some of the reasons people didn't give the book five stars and how she wanted to answer those reviews.

To pick up a copy of Blu's book, you can order a signed copy from Bamboo Forest Publishing, or you can order a copy on Amazon or Audible.

Why? Episode 41- The Zombie Research Society

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0400

What are you going to do when the zombie apocalypse is upon us? Are you ready? Can you really ever be ready for an army of the undead? We spoke with Cameron Carlson from the Zombie Research Society, who helped us come up with a plan for the day the zombies rise up as one.

He gives us some tips on how to be ready, where you should go when it goes down and what we can hope to be when it happens.

For more information, check out the Zombie Research Society's website, or you can follow them on Twitter.

Why? Episode 40- The World Black Pudding Lobbing Competition

Mon, 02 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0400

Black Pudding lobbing is no joke. It's been around since the War of the Roses. This yearly tradition continues on in Ramsbottom, where black puddings are lobbed at Yorkshire puddings on posts high above competitors.

Why do they do this? Well, in previous iterations, it was a continuation of an ongoing battle, but today it's to raise money for local families in need of a little assistance.

We talk with Jimmy Cunliffe, the current organizer of the event and Gillian, the social media person with the competition.

Why? Episode 39- Sculptor (and reluctant Executive Producer) John Sauve

Mon, 26 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0400

In many ways, Why exists because of John Sauve. (Not that he'd want us to advertise this fact.) But John's real love is art and sculpture. We sat down with John to talk about his Man in the City project, showing his work on the Highline in New York and how you get the permits to float a giant orange man down the Chicago river. For more information on John's work and the Sauve Art Foundation, check out his page on Facebook.

Why? Episode 38- Las Vegas Doorman Jay Rankin

Mon, 19 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0400

And you thought your job was exhausting...

Jay Rankin saw it all as a doorman at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Working the graveyard shift, Jay saw a side of Vegas they don't advertise in magazines, and he learned a lot about people by seeing them at their best and their worst. Jay's taken these experiences and written about them in his book Under the Neon Sky. It's a fascinating read and we're not just saying that because Jay was on our show.

For more information on Jay, check him out on Facebook, or to order a copy of the book, head over to Amazon.

Why? Episode 37- Loch Ness Monster expert Gary Campbell

Mon, 12 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0400

You've heard the legend of the Loch Ness monster. But if you want some facts, you need to check out Gary Campbell's website. Gary's archived every single sighting of Nessie, starting in 546 AD up to today.

We talk about the very first Nessie sighting and when the legend really took off. What could be living in the dark waters? What will Gary do if the truth is ever discovered?

And that's not all. If you have any questions about the history of the monster, or the history of the Loch, Gary's your guy. Check out his website for more info.

Why? Episode 36- Water Skiing Girl Wonder Shellie Blum

Mon, 05 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0400

Shellie Blum was the first female freestyle waterski ramp jumper in the world. Yet, shortly after this incredible feat, she broke her neck attempting a record setting jump.

We talked with Shellie about her incredible story, about how she got into the sport, and how she came back from such a terrible injury. Shellie has written and shared her story in the book, Waterski Girl Wonder, which is available on Amazon. For more information, check out Shellie's website.

And to hear Shellie break down which Go-Go was the best waterskiier, check out our website or our YouTube page.

Why? Episode 35- Rock and Roll all night with Mini Gene from Mini Kiss

Mon, 29 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0400

People! You wanted the best, we got the best. And it is a fun conversation.

One of the best tribute bands out there is Mini Kiss. And if you don't believe us, would you believe the members of real Kiss? We talk with Mini Gene about the joys of rock stardom, what the fans are like, what Gene Simmons thinks of the band and, most importantly, whether it's possible to text Dr. Love now. This show was made for lovin' you.

For more information on the band, check out their website. And, check out our YouTube page for a bonus clip, where the Mini Demon talks about the most rock & roll thing he's ever done.

Why? Episode 34- Superhero/Former Wrestler Todd Turfe

Mon, 22 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0400

Todd Turfe used to wrestle professionally. And while that might be cool, nothing is as cool as walking into a hospital carrying Thor's hammer. 'Cause that's what Todd does now.

Todd spends his free time dressing up as superheroes and visiting sick kids in the hospital. While getting to meet a professional wrestler is cool, hanging out with Batman will always be cooler.

Todd talks with us about what he carries in his utility belt, how Spiderman's outfit is not one-size-fits-all and how he can carry a hammer that is so dang heavy.

Why?- Episode 33 Medium Connie Smock

Mon, 15 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0400

Connie Smock is a medium. That means she talks with people who have passed on, but still have messages for the living. Connie talks with us about how she gets these messages, what types of messages she gets and whether your dead relatives can see you in the bathroom. (All the important stuff.)

For more on Connie, check out her website.

Why?- Episode 32 Everybody Dance Now, it's Martha Wash

Mon, 08 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0400

You may not know the name, but you definitely know the voice. From her solo work, to her singing with Sylvester, the Weather Girls and C&C Music Factory, Martha Wash is a talented singer who shows no signs of slowing down. (And that's not just a show biz cliche- she currently has her own TV show, a magazine, tours constantly and is putting the finishing touches on a new record.

We talk with Martha about her illustrious career, if she ever wishes it would stop raining men and how her parents took to her moving away from gospel music into something a little less conventional.

And over on our YouTube page, we have a bonus clip where Martha talks about her good friend (and superfan) RuPaul.

For more info on what Martha's up to (and there's a lot), check out her website.

Why?- Episode 31 The Kennedy assassination with Mark Shaw

Mon, 01 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0400

Mark Shaw wasn't interested in writing about the assassination of the 35th president. He thought this horrible mark in American history was just that- horrible.

But after stumbling onto how reporter Dorthy Kilgallen might've been murdered because of her knowledge of the plot to kill Kennedy, well, he couldn't help himself. With a skilled reporter's eye, Mark tackled the case in four different books, each filling in with more detail how Kilgallen was murdered because of her diligent reporting.

We talked with Mark about his theory, what his research turned up and how he was seemingly being guided by Dorothy herself. For more information on Mark's work, check out his website dedicated to the case.

For some additional exclusive content, you won't hear in the interview, be sure to check out our YouTube channel.

Why?- Episode 30 Acting Sick with Vanessa Ahern

Mon, 24 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0400

Admit it, we've all played sick to stay home from school or work. Vanessa Ahern plays sick on a regular basis... and she gets paid for it.

Vanessa is what they call an SP (Standardized Patients). She acts sick for medical students to help them learn how to talk with and diagnose patients. We talk with Vanessa about her favorite disease to pretend to have and if she's ever gotten comfortable wearing the gowns they give you in hospitals.

For more of Vanessa's writing, or to read the article "I Fake Sick for a Living," that attracted us, check out her website.

Why?- Episode 29 Professional Bridesmaid Caroline Bright

Mon, 17 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0400

Getting married can be overwhelming. That’s why most people have bridesmaids. But what if you don’t want to be yelling at friends with no wedding planning experience? That’s when you need a professional bridesmaid.
Enter Caroline Bright, who has been involved in the wedding world for her whole life. She talks with us about how she can help your big day run smoother, what to do when the future Mother-in-Law steps up and what songs you might want to ask your DJ not to play.
For more information on Caroline, check out her website.

Why?- Episode 28 Sealand with Prince Michael

Mon, 10 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0400

Sealand is the smallest country in the world. Located just off the coast of the UK in international waters, the country was 'founded' when Prince Michael's dad took over an abandoned World War II defense post and turned it into a pirate radio station. How do you keep broadcasting AND keep her majesty's government off your back? Claim you're not part of the UK. And it's worked. Sealand has happily existed since 1967.

Prince Michael talks with Luke and Heidi about the country- how did they form, what's their relationship like with England and does he ever get mail intended for other princes? For more information about Sealand, to become a Lord or Lady, or to just buy some really cool stamps, visit their website.

Why?- Episode 27 Cozy Love Pants with the Cozy Love Company

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0400

Everyone loves being cozy. But what if you're feeling frisky? Along comes the Cozy Love Company with the answer- the Cozy Love Pants. We talk with Beth and Rachael, the founders of the company and the inventors of the pants, which are taking the nation by storm.

For more information, check out the Cozy Love Company's website, and use the code 'flash' at check-out for an additional 15% off your order.

Why?- Episode 26 Blobfest with Brendan Carr

Mon, 27 May 2019 03:00:00 -0400

For horror film fans, 1958's The Blob is a classic. For the residents of Phoenixville, PA, it's a reason to celebrate. Blobfest is an annual celebration of the film, involving costume contests, screenings and a re-creation of the famous run out of the theater scene in the film.

For more information on Blobfest, or to get your tickets (which go on sale Friday, May 31st, check out the Colonial Theatre's website.

Why?- Episode 25 Professional Mascot Dan Meers

Mon, 20 May 2019 03:00:00 -0400

Dan Meers is a wolf for a living. Well, KC Wolf, the mascot of the Kansas City Chiefs. This pinnacle comes after a lifetime of mascotting. (Is that a word?) He was named the nations #1 mascot while in college, he was Fred Bird for the St. Louis Cardinals.

Dan joins us to talk about his career under the head- how hot it gets in there, the strange things he finds himself doing to smell good and how kids all over the world respond to a large, anthropomorphic wolf. To find out more about Dan, visit him at his website.

Why?- Episode 24 "The Dark Side of Disney" with Leonard Kinsey

Mon, 13 May 2019 06:00:00 -0400

Is it possible that adults can have fun at Disney World? Of course they can, and Leonard Kinsey wrote the book on it. Where you can have sex, how you can get drugs, and the best bar crawls this side of the monorail are all covered in his book, The Dark Side of Disney. And Leonard should know- he's been to the parks over 100 times. For more information on Leonard's books (he's also written two adult Disney-themed novels) or any of the other Disney-centric books he's published, check out Bamboo Forrest Publishing.

Why?- Episode 23 Dreamland Wax Museum with Jed Reitler

Mon, 06 May 2019 00:00:00 -0400

The wax museum returns to Boston with the Dreamland Wax Museum. Located in downtown Boston, the museum features popular celebrities including Snoop Dogg, Amy Winehouse, the Dali Lama and Clint Eastwood. (This is also the first time those 5 have appeared in the same sentence.)

Luke and Heidi talk with Jed Reitler from Dreamland about his favorite figures, how a figure is created and whether it is creepy to be alone in the museum at night.

For more information on the Dreamland Wax Museum, visit their website.

Why?- Episode 22 Zodiac killer/DB Cooper 'friend' David Coutcher

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 00:00:00 -0400

David Coutcher met a guy in Mexico City in the late 60s. As they got to know each other, this guy opened up to David about his past. And, reflecting back on their friendship David came to a terrifying realization- his 'friend' was confessing to him his horrible life in crime. Because David's friend was the Zodiac Killer. And the murderer of the Black Dahlia. And DB Cooper. And one of the three prisoners who escaped from Alcatraz.

David's written a book about this relationship and all the things he's been able to find in the ensuing years to back up his theory about who his friend claimed to be. The book is called "My Dance with the Zodiac Killer." And David has a YouTube channel where he recounts all the stories his friend Frank told him over the years.

To find David's videos, search "David Gold," on YouTube and you can buy a copy of David's book here.

Why?- Episode 21 Professional Cuddler Madelon Guinazzo

Mon, 22 Apr 2019 00:00:00 -0400

Feeling down? Want to feel better? Want to feel cared for? Maybe what you need is a good cuddle. We talk with Madelon Guinazzo from Cuddlist.com about the benefits of cuddling, how she got into the industry and whether she prefers to be big or little spoon.

Why?- Episode 20 Sex Coach Cain

Mon, 15 Apr 2019 00:00:00 -0400

This week we talk with Sex Coach Cain. She answers all of our important questions, how much Gatorade does a sex coach drink, if there is such a thing as a dumb sex question and whether "Yakity Sax," is good mood music.

To learn more, or to book a session with Sex Coach Cain, visit her website, www.Romantic Discovery.com or check her out on Instagram @SexCoachCain.

Why?- Episode 19 Equine Dentist Dr Diane Febles

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 00:00:00 -0400

Dr. Diane Febles started as a veterinarian, but quickly found herself drawn to dentistry. She now drives all across Georgia, taking care of sick animals, as well as keeping horses healthy by showing owners proper dental care. Does it involve a lot of floss? What does a retainer for a horse look like?

And if that isn't enough, Dr. Febles is also a licensed acupuncturist.

For more information, visit her website: www.georgiaequinedentistry.com

Why?- Episode 18 Nude Art Model Callista Womick

Mon, 01 Apr 2019 00:00:00 -0400

Callista Womick is an art model. And yeah, she’s naked at work. But she gets to work in collaboration with artists as they create their work. She talks about the strain posing can put on her body, what goes through her head while posing and answers the age old question: whose more uncomfortable- the artist or the nude model?
Check out Callista on Twitter @alackaschmatz. (And if you want to see some of the work produced during Callista’s posing sessions, check out whythepodcast.com)

Why?- Episode 17 Rocky Horror with the hosts of The Rocky Horror Podcast Show

Mon, 25 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0400

Are people still obsessed with the 1975 musical? Why? What does it mean to them. We talk with Ash, Dawn and Sean, the co-hosts of the popular Rocky Horror Podcast Show about how they got into the scene, what they love about it and why they aren't tired of the Time Warp. You'll shiver with antici.... pation.

Check out their podcast: www.facebook.com/RockyHorrorPodcast/

Why?- Episode 16 Trump Unity Bridge owner Rob Cortis

Mon, 18 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0400

No matter what you believe politically, you can probably agree that we need to do a better job of understanding each other and listening to each other.

This week, we talk with Rob Cortis, the owner/driver of the Trump Unity bridge. We try to move outside of politics and keep the conversation to things like parallel parking and juggalos. You know, the sorts of things that everyone wants to know more about.

To learn more about Rob & his bridge, check out www.TrumpUnityBridge.com.

Why?- Episode 15 Gender-Free Clothing with Phluid's Rob Garrett Smith

Mon, 11 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0400

What is gender-free clothing and what is the Phluid Project? And what is their mission? Heidi and Luke talk with Phluid phounder Rob Garrett Smith about what makes his store different, why pink is now a color associated with women and why you shouldn't quit your job after your first trip to Burning Man. Recorded onsite in New York City, it's phucking fabulous!

Why?- Episode 14 Nudist Harry Levy

Mon, 04 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0500

Direct from Cupecoy beach on St. Maarten, it's Why with our special guest nude beach enthusiast Harry Levy. Why does Harry love being naked? Does he even own a bathing suit? And what about sun block? We get to the bottom (get it?) of it all.

Why?- Episode 13 Romance Novel Cover Model/Actor Michael Wayne Foster

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 00:00:00 -0500

If you've read "Restless Sea Lord," "To Mate a Werewolf," or "The Caress of a Commander," you're already familiar with Michael Wayne Foster's work. He's a model and is featured on over 800 romance novel covers.

But Michael is more than that. He's also an actor, who's appeared notably in "The Walking Dead," "The Thundermans," and "black-ish." We talk with Michael about all his acting work, what prompted him to make a career 180 from teaching as well as his charity work for Nicaragua.

Why?- Episode 12 Performance Artist Satori Circus

Mon, 18 Feb 2019 00:00:00 -0500

How do you describe a Satori Circus show? Part musical, part mime, part drama, part burlesque and all-inclusive. Basically, you never know what you'll get, but you're sure to be sucked in. We talk to Satori about his skin care regimen, his favorite type of shows, his alter-egos and what he wants the audience to take away from his art.

Why?- Episode 11 Model Train Master Builder Bruce Zaccagnino

Mon, 11 Feb 2019 00:00:00 -0500

Bruce Zaccagnino holds the world record for building the largest model train set in the world. But he's not done yet. He's still building. He joins us to talk about his building, holding a Guinness World Record, receiving the highest honor in the Hindu faith and what is up next.

You can see Bruce's work at Northlandz, in Flemington, New Jersey.

Why?- Episode 10 Filmmaker River Gallo

Mon, 04 Feb 2019 00:00:00 -0500

River Gallo was recently named one of PAPER magazine's 100 People Taking Over 2019. Why? You may ask. Well, he wrote, co-directed and stars in the new short film Ponyboi- the first film written by and starring an intersex person. Oh, and it's produced by Emma Thompson and Stephen Fry. Yes, that Emma Thompson and Stephen Fry. He's also a model, intersex advocate and all around fascinating. We talk about all of it, as well as his deep love of Brittany Murphy, his other work and the ending of Crazy, Rich Asians.

Why?- Episode 09 North American Wife Carrying Champion Jesse Wall

Mon, 28 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0500

Just in case doing an Iron Man seems too easy to you, here comes wife carrying. Champion Jesse Wall joins us to talk about tricks of the trade, adding some snowshoes to the mix and competing against the Ivan Drago of the sport.

Why?- Episode 08 World's Greatest Streaker Mark Roberts

Mon, 21 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0500

He's streaked (yes, that's the correct verbage for past-tense streaking) over 500 events around the world. He's danced on the Super Bowl field. He slipped and fell on the ice during the winter Olympics. And he's run around soccer pitches all over the world completely naked. He is Mark Roberts and he is the world's greatest streaker.

Why?- Episode 07 Competitive Eater Molly Schuyler

Mon, 14 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0500

Here's some of the things that Molly Schuyler has eater: 93 dumplings, 33 corn dogs and 501 chicken wings. Molly is the one of the best competitive eaters out there. She joins us to discuss chipmunking, getting hassled at the Golden Corral and one of the foods she refuses to eat in competition.

Why?- Episode 06 Travel Expert Tom Massey

Mon, 07 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0500

If anyone knows a good travel trip or two, it's Tom Massey. He's written a book about it. Well, he's going to. Tom sat down with us in the community room at the Phluid Project in New York City to talk over the best way to get from here to there.

Why?- Episode 05 Painter Marc Eckel

Mon, 31 Dec 2018 13:00:00 -0500

Happy New Year! We close out the year talking with Marc Eckel, who has built an international career and ministry finger painting Christian images. How did he realize this was his path? Can he haz paint a cheeseburger?

Have a listen to learn more on it, his writing and other art.

Why?- Episode 04 Part 2 with Nina Kircher

Mon, 24 Dec 2018 00:00:00 -0500

What better way to spend the holiday than with a racoon named Nigel? Here's part 2 of our interview with Nina Kircher as we discuss some of her acting work and what the neighbor might think about Nigel.

To get you started on a Nigel binge, here he is washing dishes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yiGWpeVMT48&t=26s

Why?- Episode 03 Raccoon Enthusiast Nina Kircher

Mon, 17 Dec 2018 00:00:00 -0500

Nina is the wacky next door neighbor you never knew you had. And Nigel is a raccoon. Put them both together and, not only is it love at first sight, it's a conversation rife with raccoon calls, questions about raccoon names and video footage of Nigel washing dishes.

Happy Holidays from Why!

Why?- Episode 02 Herper Monty Najar

Mon, 10 Dec 2018 01:00:00 -0500

We're joined by herper Monty Najar. What is a herper? Why does Monty do this? Why is Luke standing on the desk, crying?

Why?- Episode 01 Ghost Hunter Ken Suminski

Mon, 10 Dec 2018 01:00:00 -0500

Heidi & Luke are joined by ghost hunter Ken Suminski. What has Ken found in is work? How do you get ghosts to leave? Can you date ghosts? All the important questions are asked and, surprisingly, answered.

Why?- the Podcast- Trailer

Mon, 26 Nov 2018 14:00:00 -0500

An amuse bouche, paving the way for the full episodes of Why?, a new podcast dedicated bringing people together, one question at a time.

Hosted by Heidi Hedquist and Luke Poling, Why attempts to get some answers from folks with some... let's call them unique, shall we?... hobbies and professions.

From snake hunters, to Brazilian waxers, to the owner of a literal bridge to nowhere. We'll sit them all down and ask one simple question- Why?