Tommy James joins Nancy to discuss his journey with Tommy James and The Shondells and beyond including early Pittsburgh success with “Hanky Panky,” gold singles and platinum albums, hits like “Crystal Blue Persuasion”, “Crimson & Clover,” “Mony Mony,” and “Sweet Cherry Wine,” his autobiography Me, The Mob, and The Music and an upcoming biopic of the same name that chronicles his extraordinary story (1:30). Plus, Nancy talks with Hollywood historian and author Laurie Jacobson about television...
Jun 02, 2020•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 503
Comedian Julia Scotti joins Nancy to discuss age and gender in the comedy world, her Showtime special More Funny Women of a Certain Age, and her career journey—including the experience of becoming a quarter finalist and fan favorite on Season 11 of America’s Got Talent and the impact of revealing her personal story of becoming a woman of transgendered experience via the primetime stage (1:20). Plus, Nancy talks with Arcade Comedy Theater manager and comedian Jason Clark about the common mistakes...
May 22, 2020•36 min•Ep. 502
Veteran entertainer Tony Orlando joins Nancy to discuss his non-stop music career from hit records like “Tie A Yellow Ribbon”, “Candida” , and “Knock Three Times” to his seventies television variety show 'Tony Orlando and Dawn' , life on the road and a future Broadway musical (1:37). Plus, more on Tony’s volunteer work with military veterans and his love for the fans. Is it time for you to create some music playlists? Nancy talks about the power of music in setting the stages in our lives (34:27...
May 15, 2020•38 min•Ep. 501
NASA astronaut Col. Nick Hague joins Nancy to discuss life lessons from his career journey , his time on the International Space Station, and the powerful support networks that contribute to success and the human exploration of space (1:21). Plus, Nick’s wife Col. Catie Hague joins the conversation to talk about dual career relationships, co-parenting, and sheltering in place with an astronaut (27:58). And the Hagues share their simple strategies to keep family tension at bay during those stay-a...
May 05, 2020•48 min•Ep. 500
Emmy Award winner Alan Zweibel joins Nancy to discuss his incredible comedy journey from teenage joke writer to legendary television comedy writer ( Saturday Night Live , It’s Garry Shandling’s Show , Curb Your Enthusiasm ), screenwriter, and best-selling author, his new memoir Laugh Lines , and life lessons from decades of comedy collaboration (1:37-42:18). Plus, Nancy shares her magazine humor column on RV travel which has her rethinking everything now that she’s stuck in her house for a while...
Apr 22, 2020•50 min•Ep. 499
Actor and child advocate Paul Petersen joins Nancy to discuss Hollywood, his childhood role on the iconic sitcom The Donna Reed Show , his latest book celebrating the television show’s 60th anniversary, The Donna Reed Show: A Pictorial Memoir , and his work to protect children in the arts (1:30). Plus, Nancy talks about using retro television shows and great memories to generate a little positive energy (29:47). Get more information about Paul’s book The Donna Reed Show: A Pictorial Memoir . Fin...
Apr 13, 2020•33 min•Ep. 498
Comedy veteran Tammy Pescatelli joins Nancy to discuss her career journey, new solo special Tammy Pescatelli’s Way After School Special , Showtime’s More Funny Women of a Certain Age , the changing face of comedy and the importance of giving back to your community (2:09). Plus Nancy talks with jazz pianist and entertainment lawyer David Gurwin about the implications of social distancing and mandated closures on performers, venues, and contracts (31:25). Find out more about segment sponsor the Fi...
Apr 01, 2020•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 497
Comedian Nicky Paris joins Nancy to discuss his comedy strategy and multifaceted career from stand-up stage and television to podcast personality and co-host on Daddy Issues with Dean McDermott and Adam Hunter (2:06). Find out more about segment sponsor the Finding Brave podcast (1:42, 33:31). Plus Nancy reviews the pressures of beginning projects during difficult times and suggestions for starting if the circumstances allow (33:47). CDC website for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Listen to ...
Mar 26, 2020•38 min•Ep. 496
Nancy remembers country music icon Kenny Rogers (August 21, 1938 - March 20, 2020) and shares her 2015 conversation with the legend when he joined her on the podcast to discuss his farewell tour, new album, Grammy Award-winning career, collaborations, and happiness. When it comes to music, Rogers told Nancy, “You need to touch as many people as possible.” And his music did just that. Celebrate the legacy and life of Kenny Rogers by listening to his music . Visit Nancy’s website ....
Mar 22, 2020•18 min•Ep. 495
Comedian and producer Carole Montgomery joins Nancy to discuss her new Showtime special More Funny Women of a Certain Age , the power and support of women in comedy, confronting ageism in entertainment, and highlighting the talent of others (1:44). Watch the trailer: More Funny Women of a Certain Age . Find out more about segment sponsor the Finding Brave podcast (1:20, 32:47). Plus Nancy talks with Patrick Hughes, CEO and President of the Fremont Street Experience , about the immersive entertai...
Mar 18, 2020•51 min•Ep. 494
Cory B. Savage joins Nancy to discuss his atypical career journey and new role as CEO of new record label One Vision Music Group (1:26), the power of developing skillsets, the importance of brand strategy, and how authenticity can build the best artists. Plus Nancy talks with custom guitar builder Ron Mason about his later in life decision to become a luthier and begin his business RWM Guitars (32:39). Find out more about segment sponsor the Finding Brave podcast (1:06). Find out more about Kree...
Mar 08, 2020•48 min•Ep. 493
R&B hitmaker Johnny Gill joins Nancy to discuss the inspiration behind his music and latest album Game Changer II , the debut single “Soul of a Woman” and music video with Tiffany Haddish. And Gill reveals whether we can expect a New Edition reunion (1:23). Find out more about segment sponsor Rock and Romance Cruise (1:02). Plus Nancy shares an opportunity for women screenwriters from The Writers Lab — the creative force that is helping to change the age and gender disparity in screenwriting...
Feb 26, 2020•34 min•Ep. 492
Emmy Award-winning comedy writer and producer Mike Reiss joins Nancy to discuss his career journey including decades with The Simpsons , his books , advice for writers in a competitive industry, (1:37) and upcoming appearance at the Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop (35:10). Plus Nancy shares a magazine humor column inspired by goats (47:12). Find out more about segment sponsor Ultimate Disco Cruise (1:15). Check out other books by Mike Reiss here . Find out more about the Erma Bombeck Writers’ Wor...
Feb 06, 2020•53 min•Ep. 491
Author Amy Ephron joins Nancy to discuss The Other Side of the Wall , the third book in her trilogy for young readers, her creative career, and writing process (1:54). Plus, website developer Rene Morozowich offers some tips and strategies for creating an effective website (31:29). Find out more about segment sponsor Ultimate Disco Cruise (1:34). Check out Amy’s other books here . Visit Nancy’s website ....
Jan 30, 2020•43 min•Ep. 490
Comedy Cellar owner Noam Dworman joins Nancy to discuss the history and highlights of the legendary New York City comedy institution, why famous Comedy Cellar alums keep coming back, and the ever-changing world of stand-up (1:27). Plus, television comedy writer, producer and stand-up Joel Madison ( Roseanne, Crashing ) shares a lesson learned from the comedy stage (37:07). Find out more about segment sponsor Ultimate Disco Cruise (1:07). Visit Nancy’s website ....
Jan 23, 2020•46 min•Ep. 489
Comedian Wendy Liebman joins Nancy to discuss her stand-up journey from earlier performances to popular late night show appearances and comedy specials, and the importance of mentoring and being memorable (1:48). Plus, a review of the popular Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop (22:00, 25:23) and a humor essay that helped change Nancy’s writing world (37:48). Find out more about segment sponsor Ultimate Disco Cruise (1:25). Find out more about the Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop . Find out more about ...
Jan 08, 2020•44 min•Ep. 488
Emmy Award-winning cartoonist Cathy Guisewite joins Nancy to discuss the history of her daily comic strip Cathy , finding humor in challenging topics, her creative process, why she ended the popular comic strip after three decades, and her new book Fifty Things That Aren’t My Fault (1:45). Find out more about segment sponsor Ultimate Disco Cruise (1:22). And to kick off the new year, career success and work-life expert Kathy Caprino talks with Nancy about her love-hate relationship with New Year...
Jan 01, 2020•59 min•Ep. 487
Singer-songwriter Kalie Shorr joins Nancy to discuss her acclaimed album Open Book , the Song Suffragettes and the changing culture for women in music, performing with music idols and finding your unique creative voice (1:31). Need some last minute gift ideas? Nancy is joined by entertainment writer Megan McLachlan for some entertainment-driven suggestions (29:20). Find out more about segment sponsor Ultimate Disco Cruise (1:11). Listen to this episode’s takeaway tip (49:49). Visit Nancy’s websi...
Dec 21, 2019•53 min•Ep. 486
Karolyn Grimes joins Nancy to discuss her childhood role as Zuzu Bailey in Frank Capra’s It’s A Wonderful Life , working with the director and Jimmy Stewart, and how the film came back into her life decades after its release (1:23). Find out more about segment sponsor Ultimate Disco Cruise (1:02). Do you have a little family-driven comedy or stress during the holidays? Maybe you’ll recognize a few of these characters from Nancy’s humor column. Every gathering has a few (20:19). Listen to this ep...
Dec 11, 2019•26 min•Ep. 485
Improv favorite Abby McEnany joins Nancy to discuss her new Showtime series Work in Progress , sharing her very personal story and struggles onscreen, and the importance of creating a dialogue for learning (1:31). Watch the Work in Progress trailer. Find out more about segment sponsor Ultimate Disco Cruise (1:07). Dawn Keezer, director of the Pittsburgh Film Office offers up advice on how to get involved in local filmmaking (32:40). Listen to this episode’s takeaway tip (38:51). Get more informa...
Dec 04, 2019•41 min•Ep. 484
Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Amy Grant joins Nancy to discuss her Christmas music , creative growth and finding inspiration in reconnecting with yourself (2:08). Find out more about our segment sponsor Ultimate Disco Cruise (1:50). Nancy adds a little holiday humor with her take on greeting cards from her award-winning humor column (34:05). And listen to this episode’s takeaway tip (38:30). Visit Nancy’s website ....
Nov 26, 2019•41 min•Ep. 483
Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood’s David Newell joins Nancy to discuss his role as speedy delivery man Mr. McFeely on the beloved children’s show, his friend, star and show creator Fred Rogers, and the new feature film A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood (1:37). Find out more about our segment sponsor Ultimate Disco Cruise (49:30). Also, Chris Rodell , author of Growing Up in the REAL Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood , offers up some travel suggestions if you’re heading to Mister Rogers hometown of Latrob...
Nov 21, 2019•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 482
Walter Williams, Sr. founding member of the legendary R & B group The O’Jays, (1:16) joins Nancy to discuss his musical journey, the group’s road to success and recent Philadelphia Music Walk of Fame induction. Nancy also shares her 2019 Ultimate Disco Cruise onboard interview with Earl Young and The Trammps (28:36). Find out more about our segment sponsor Ultimate Disco Cruise . (:56) Visit Nancy’s website . And listen to this episode’s takeaway tip on revisiting and tackling unfinished pro...
Nov 11, 2019•39 min•Ep. 481
Guinness World Record-holding juggler Niels Duinker (2:43) joins Nancy to discuss his highly-specialized career and how his juggling hobby became a full-time, thriving, multidimensional business. And broadcast media expert and ventriloquism coach Gary Owen (28:36) offers advice for making practice a habit while maximizing its potential to ignite success. Find out more about our segment sponsor Ultimate Disco Cruise . (2:19) Visit Nancy’s website . And listen to this episode’s takeaway tip on how...
Oct 31, 2019•49 min•Ep. 480
Actor, publisher, and writer Kathryn Leigh Scott (1:57) joins Nancy for another dose of Halloween as they discuss the longstanding popularity of cult classic show Dark Shadows. Plus Kathryn shares the story behind her new novel September Girl , her strategy for balancing projects, and tips for book writing and jumpstarting your own fiction project. (24:47) Find out more about our segment sponsor Ultimate Disco Cruise . (1:34) And listen to this episode’s takeaway tip on productivity. (34:17)...
Oct 24, 2019•37 min•Ep. 479
Butch Patrick joins Nancy for a special Halloween episode to discuss the legacy of the popular series The Munsters and his character Eddie Munster, his work building upon his love of the series and cars and creating a career niche that blends both. (1:56) Keeping with the autumn theme, Nancy shares her not-so-perfect apple picking adventures. (26:48) Plus, a takeaway tip to add a little twist to your holiday traditions. (30:12)
Oct 15, 2019•33 min•Ep. 478
Comedian Nate Bargatze joins Nancy to discuss his comedy journey, family influences, writing process, the power of Netflix, and upcoming Vegas show . (1:59) Find out more about our segment sponsor Rock and Romance Cruise . (32:00) And in our new segment, Stand-Up Strategy , comedian and impressionist Terry Jones shares a life lesson he learned from comedy that can be applied to the real world. (32:20) Plus a take away tip on the importance of analyzing feedback. (40:00)...
Sep 27, 2019•42 min•Ep. 477
Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Ricky Byrd (Joan Jett and The Blackhearts) joins Nancy to discuss his music, sobriety, and the impact of his work and his album Clean Getaway in the recovery community and beyond. And in our Entertaining Destination segment: Why the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a "must visit" online and IRL. Plus, a take-away tip that could make an important difference. Read about addiction, prevention, and recovery via the National Institute of Health . Find out more about Rock and ...
Sep 19, 2019•35 min•Ep. 476
Actor Jon Provost joins Nancy to discuss his career, including his role as Timmy in the beloved series Lassie , and the bottom line about being in the well. Nancy adds a little humor as she addresses school lunchbox anxiety. Plus, a fun flashback tip. Find out more about segment sponsor Soul Train Cruise....
Sep 06, 2019•32 min•Ep. 475
Jazz pianist and nationally recognized entertainment lawyer David Gurwin joins Nancy to discuss his creative-based career, copyright law, and ways writers, comics, musicians and other artists can protect their intellectual property from misuse. And author and publisher Donna Cavanagh jumps into our first How To segment with advice for writers before they write, finish, pitch, or sell their books. Find out more about segment sponsor Soul Train Cruise. Find out more about HumorOutcasts.com and HO ...
Aug 30, 2019•49 min•Ep. 474
