Broadway veteran, Tony Award winner, and The Actors Fund Chairman of the Board Brian Stokes Mitchell joins Nancy to discuss Broadway, the power of the arts during the pandemic, his recovery from COVID-19 and the popular window concerts that earned him a viral audience, his creative career, including the early days of Trapper John, M.D. , and the new PBS series In Concert At The Hollywood Bowl . Plus, Brian shares background details on The Actors Fund as well as information on the important and i...
Jan 22, 2021•53 min•Ep. 533
Writer and humorist Peggy Rowe joins Nancy to discuss her latest New York Times Bestseller About Your Father And Other Celebrities I Have Known , writing inspiration, creative productivity, family influences, and how fans of her son Mike Rowe ( Dirty Jobs ) got a glimpse of her humor and helped push her to write even more (1:16). Plus, Nancy talks writing strategy, the power of deadlines, writers’ block, and moving forward with celebrity and show business book author Mark Bego (39:30). Like and ...
Jan 15, 2021•56 min•Ep. 532
Karamo joins Nancy to discuss the importance of self-focus and self-care , how being one of the hosts of Netflix’s Queer Eye has allowed him to help others and better understand himself, and why he has chosen to discuss his struggle with migraine headaches to help educate others (1:26). Plus, Nancy corners Karamo to find out if her loved one’s fanny pack is a fashion do or don’t. And Nancy talks New Year’s resolutions, practical goal-setting, building better habits, cutting yourself a break and ...
Jan 06, 2021•44 min•Ep. 531
Emmy Award-winning actress and comedian Vicki Lawrence joins Nancy to discuss her journey from high school to The Carol Burnett Show and beyond , the popularity of her character Thelma Harper, Bob Mackie wardrobe moments, and working with comedy legends (1:35). Plus, Vicki and Nancy talk about Vicki’s two-woman show Vicki Lawrence & Mama and her work with the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) as a spokesperson for chronic idiopathic urticaria (chronic hives) and their education...
Dec 28, 2020•38 min•Ep. 530
America’s Got Talent winner Darci Lynne and her mother Misty Farmer join Nancy to talk about the power of family, Christmas, Darci’s career journey, music in their family, extreme togetherness, and filming The Spin with Darci Lynne and Nickelodeon’s Unfiltered from home during the pandemic (1:56). In the second segment, ventriloquist, coach and entertainment producer Gary Owen shares creative gift ideas for beginning and advanced performers as well as those who might be open to testing the water...
Dec 17, 2020•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 529
Tony Award winner and Emmy and Grammy nominee Kelli O'Hara joins Nancy to discuss her career journey, Broadway, creative decision-making, Christmas traditions, and the upcoming special Christmas with The Tabernacle Choir featuring Kelli O’Hara and Richard Thomas that channels the beauty of the holiday season (1:21). Plus, Kelli and Nancy discuss routine shifts and changes during these isolating times, and ways to lend support to those in the arts impacted by the pandemic. In the second segment, ...
Dec 10, 2020•29 min•Ep. 528
Folk legend and Grammy winner Noel Paul Stookey joins Nancy to discuss the power of music to create social awareness and change, his journey as one-third of the beloved ’60s folk music trio Peter, Paul, and Mary and their hits like “If I Had a Hammer” “Where Have All the Flowers Gone” and “Blowin’ in The Wind” that quickly became empowering songs during the difficult times of that decade. Plus, Noel discusses the story behind his popular “Wedding Song (There is Love)” and its contribution in fos...
Dec 03, 2020•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 527
Emmy Award-winning television, film and stage actor Richard Thomas joins Nancy to discuss acting and career balance, his creative journey from his role as the beloved John-Boy Walton on The Waltons to more recent roles in hit series like The Americans and Billions , and the upcoming holiday special and PBS tradition Christmas with The Tabernacle Choir featuring Kelli O’Hara and Richard Thomas . Plus, Richard and Nancy talk about the comfort in celebrating the season with music and traditions, hi...
Nov 24, 2020•44 min•Ep. 526
Artist and actress Angela Cartwright joins Nancy to discuss her childhood roles in the beloved film The Sound of Music , and television favorites Lost in Space and Make Room for Daddy , the importance of friendships and communication, and her real life role as a grandmother. Plus, Angela shares the story behind The Sound of Music Family Scrapbook and her books Styling The Stars with co-author Tom McLaren and Lost (and Found) in Space with co-star Bill Mummy, and her 2019 return to Lost in Space ...
Nov 16, 2020•40 min•Ep. 525
Rocker Chuck Negron , formerly of Three Dog Night, and wife and manager Ami Negron join Nancy to discuss the challenges of performing and maintaining fan engagement during the pandemic, Chuck’s recovery journey, their Three Dog Nightmare book club, and recent wedding. Plus, Ami shares some of her solo creative projects (1:24). And in the second segment, Nancy reviews the power of embracing tech adventures and updates listeners on her latest virtual projects including a comedy event ( Erma’s Got ...
Nov 05, 2020•38 min•Ep. 524
Emmy Award-winning comedy writer Monica Piper joins Nancy to discuss her one-woman play Not That Jewish and her comedy journey from childhood influences to her career and work as an English teacher, stand-up comedian and sitcom writer for shows like Roseanne , and Mad About You . Plus, Monica shares some simple techniques to help foster creativity and make you “think funny” (1:32). And in the second segment, visual artist Sarah West discusses her art advocacy work with children, families, and ed...
Oct 26, 2020•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 523
Cassandra Peterson joins Nancy to discuss her career as horror icon Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, latest projects including the music video ‘ Don’t Cancel Halloween ,’ and life during the pandemic. Plus, Cassandra shares her theories on the longevity and scope of the pop culture icon and reveals her personal childhood experience of being bullied due to burn and skin grafting scars and how it has impacted her life (1:41). And in the second segment, author and Hollywood historian Laurie Jacobson d...
Oct 19, 2020•55 min•Ep. 522
Actress and author Kathryn Leigh Scott joins Nancy to discuss her many roles within the cult classic television series Dark Shadows , her novels, including September Girl , and other new projects. Plus, Scott reveals what it was like kissing vampire Barnabas Collins and why House of Dark Shadows (1970) might be the perfect film to get you in the Halloween spirit (1:42). And in our second segment, novelist, attorney and journalist/editor Patrick Oster discusses his fascinating and intensive writi...
Oct 11, 2020•54 min•Ep. 521
Acclaimed actors Caroline Aaron ( The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel ) and Dan Bucatinsky ( Scandal ) join Nancy to discuss the power and importance of women’s stories, their one-woman film Call Waiting co-written by Bucatinsky (with Dori Fram) and starring Aaron, and the unique challenges in sharing the stories of characters Judy Baxter and Carol Lane (1:29). Plus, the actors discuss some behind-the-scenes’ experiences from their hit television series and Aaron’s role as Shirley Maisel ( The Marvelous M...
Oct 08, 2020•41 min•Ep. 520
Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Ricky Byrd (inducted with Joan Jett & The Blackhearts) joins Nancy to discuss his music, the inspiration and process behind his latest rock album Sobering Times , his role as a “Recovery Troubador,” and why these songs and social support are especially important during stressful times. Plus, Ricky offers some advice for those hoping to achieve their creative dreams (1:29). And in our second segment, rock and roll and show business author Mark Bego reviews his writ...
Sep 29, 2020•51 min•Ep. 519
Rock and Roll Hall of Famer John Oates joins Nancy to discuss his musical journey from Hall & Oates to his latest solo project with the Good Road Band Live in Nashville , inspired by his early musical influences. Plus, John shares his creative projects and process during the pandemic and how Nashville, his life beyond music, including his love of history, have helped shape his work. (1:34) And in our second segment, songwriter, producer and songwriting professor Billy Seidman fills us in on ...
Sep 22, 2020•42 min•Ep. 518
Grammy Award-winning songwriter and singer Jonas Myrin joins Nancy to discuss the inspiration behind his new Capital CMG Records debut single “Not Alone” (1:28), the importance of introspection and positivity in his work and collaborations, writing with icons, and stepping out of your comfort zone. Plus, Nancy talks about identifying opportunities and exploring and opening new doors virtually including those via workshops and conferences that once were only attainable by “in person” attendance. ...
Sep 13, 2020•43 min•Ep. 517
“Bad to the Bone” veteran blues/rocker George Thorogood joins Nancy to discuss the Marla Thorogood Memorial Fund for Ovarian Cancer Research, founded to honor his wife Marla who died of ovarian cancer in 2019 (1:25), how fans can support this important initiative during Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, and why taking charge of your health and reminding family and friends to do the same is so important. George also discusses the impact of media and music as we deal with medical challenges, and why...
Sep 08, 2020•25 min•Ep. 516
Kirsten Scott and Matthew Scott join Nancy to discuss their acting and singing careers, their musical theater-driven journey and work with shows from Jersey Boys to Rock of Ages, their new routines, and thoughts on Broadway’s safe comeback. Plus, the actors share their suggestions for children and young adults (and their parents) interested in the performing arts, and Matthew reviews his work with Broadway Dreams, the not-for-profit performing arts organization dedicated to inspiring youth and y...
Sep 01, 2020•57 min•Ep. 515
Actor/songwriter Barry Anderson and actor/choreographer Rusty Mowery join Nancy to discuss their Broadway-driven careers and work with Jersey Boys, Kinky Boots, and Pretty Woman, where they were when Broadway and London’s West End closed due to the pandemic, and their experiences working and staying connected in the business during these isolating times. Plus, a glimpse into Barry’s new music and suggestions on how we can support the arts and the people behind it (1:37). In the second segment, N...
Aug 25, 2020•54 min•Ep. 514
Micky Dolenz joins Nancy to discuss his musical and acting journey from Circus Boy to The Monkees and beyond, the Laurel Canyon music days, and his latest adventures and projects including ‘The Monkees Live - The Mike & Micky Show,' his new album with Michael Nesmith (1:24). Plus, Nancy reviews the benefits of adding simple routines to your daily life (28:30). Like and follow Entertaining Insights Facebook Page . Watch the offical trailer for The Monkees Live - The Mike & Micky Show. Vis...
Aug 18, 2020•32 min•Ep. 513
Rock and Roll Hall of Famer John Lodge joins Nancy to discuss his new family-driven single “ In These Crazy Times (Isolation Mix),” getting up to speed on GarageBand to record during a pandemic, finding the positive in negative times, and his Moody Blues’ studio experience during ‘Days of Future Passed’(1:33). Plus, in our Entertaining Ideas segment, Nancy shares some alternative drive-in experiences that might be in your backyard (31:02). Like and follow Entertaining Insights Facebook Page . Wa...
Aug 12, 2020•35 min•Ep. 512
Actor David Hoffman joins Nancy to discuss his creative career, his role as Doug in the popular Liberty Mutual ad campaign LiMu Emu and Doug , and his new web series George Washington is Here to Help (1:32). Plus, Nancy shares her magazine humor column highlighting the time she dragged her husband to a taping of Let’s Make a Deal . (41:12). Like and follow Entertaining Insights Facebook Page . Watch the web series George Washington is Here to Help . Binge watch Limu Emu and Doug . Visit Nancy’s ...
Aug 05, 2020•47 min•Ep. 511
Platinum-selling recording artist Jamie O’Neal joins Nancy to discuss her country music journey, songwriting process, and mega-hits including “There Is No Arizona” and “Somebody’s Hero”, her upcoming album and powerful new single “Wreck Me” (1:18). And in our Entertaining Ideas segment, Nancy fills you in on where to get your virtual summer country concert via the Grand Ole Opry’s Saturday Night Opry Livestream (26:14). Like and follow Entertaining Insights Facebook Page . Watch the lyric video ...
Jul 28, 2020•29 min•Ep. 510
Guitarist and Savoy Brown founder Kim Simmonds joins Nancy to discuss his career journey and decades of self-discovery in the music business, his blues roots, and new album Ain’t Done Yet (1:28). And in our Entertaining Ideas segment, Nancy is joined by Chris Vance, CEO and founder of the piano instruction software and online service Playground Sessions . Find out how this online option, co-created by Quincy Jones, is bringing music instruction into homes with the help of accomplished teachers i...
Jul 21, 2020•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 509
Rock legend Justin Hayward joins Nancy to discuss his musical journey, the Moody Blues ’ and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame experience, his songwriting process, and creative challenges during stressful times. Plus, the story behind his new EP and songs “My Juliette” and “One Summer Day” (1:21). Also in this episode, Nancy talks about using books to jump-start, develop, and strengthen our projects and shares two of her favorite books for sparking ideas and productivity (37:19). Like and follow En...
Jul 14, 2020•41 min•Ep. 508
Comedian Jesus Trejo joins Nancy to discuss the family-driven inspiration behind his stand-up and new Showtime special Stay At Home Son , the similarities of parenting parents and kids, helping others age gracefully, and comedy learning opportunities during the pandemic (1:20). Also in this episode, Nancy talks about the YouTube channel Our Family Plays Games and how Starla, Miklos, and Grant Fitch are making board games cool again (37:19). Like and follow Entertaining Insights Facebook Page . W...
Jul 03, 2020•42 min•Ep. 507
Country music artist Danny Griego joins Nancy to discuss his latest single, “Inevitable,” his upcoming release “At The Crossroads,” a duet with his music idol the late Waylon Jennings, and why staying in your lane isn’t always the best creative decision. Plus, Danny talks about his work supporting military veterans (1:44), and his NHRA pro-stock motorcycle racing team. Also in this episode, Nancy talks with novelist and psychologist Stephanie Newman about parenting and bullying, her new novel Ba...
Jun 25, 2020•51 min•Ep. 506
Author and broadcaster Lian Dolan joins Nancy to discuss her latest novel The Sweeney Sisters , the story behind the intriguing Connecticut-based characters, people’s fascination with sisters, the complicated and humorous sides of sibling relationships, and her writing process (1:30). Plus, Nancy talks with writer and editor Marcia Stewart about Nickie’s Prize for Humor Writing —a new humor writing competition co-sponsored by the Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop in honor of Stewart's sister Nickie...
Jun 15, 2020•43 min•Ep. 505
Frank Musker joins Nancy to discuss his journey from early boy band days to international hitmaker as a musician, composer and lyricist, and World Goes Round’s recently discovered music recorded decades ago including lead single “Big House” (1:26) and its environmental and societal relevance today. Watch the music video for “Big House”. Plus, Nancy offers up a suggestion for generating a little laughter during your next conversation (53:11). Like and follow Entertaining Insights Facebook Page . ...
Jun 10, 2020•55 min•Ep. 504
