Episodes

Ever wondered how Joe Mantegna went from a high school audition for "West Side Story" to becoming a household name in the "Criminal Minds" franchise? In this episode, we explore Joe's career journey, his dedication to honoring his Italian heritage, and the role his Chicago-based restaurant played in his life. Listen as Joe recounts his early days, shares personal anecdotes about his family's connections in Italy, and reflects on his career milestones, and you get to hear how we met originally! p...

Photography is an art. And if you think about it, film and television, is a series of shots in movement. I was honored to chat with Dan Winters, a legend in the world of professional photography who crafts narratives with the click of his shutter. Winters has photographed public figures ranging from the Dalai Lama to President Barack Obama, Hollywood celebrities from Leonardo DiCaprio to Helen Mirren, and artistic luminaries from Jeff Koons to William Christenberry. In our heartfelt conversati...

Have you ever wondered what it's like to climb the ranks in Hollywood as a woman behind the camera? In my latest episode, I have an intimate conversation with the accomplished director Katt Shea, whose journey from actress to director is a testament to the power of female visionaries in show business. We delve into her transformation from bringing dark themes to life in films like "Poison Ivy" to her latest interest in heartwarming stories such as "Rescued by Ruby." Katt's experiences shed l...

When life throws you curveballs, sometimes all you can do is laugh—as I chat with comedian, producer, writer Craig Shoemaker, who pivoted from childhood adversity to a celebrated career in comedy. Now also a best selling author and an in -demand motivational speaker, Craig spills the beans on using humor as a lifeline and the secret to keeping it real in an industry that's anything but. From his early days of using laughter to connect with others, he discusses his coaching program "Winning with...

In this special episode sponsored by THE EDEN MAGAZINE, I have an eye opening discussion with Gene Bauer, a titan of the animal rights and food movement, as he shares his profound insights and a lifetime of advocacy. From Gene's academic roots at Cornell to the compassionate foundations of Farm Sanctuary, experience the power of education and empathy as Gene uncovers the shared values between activists and farmers, illustrating how our food choices can echo our innermost beliefs. His narrative...

Imagine the power of a story so captivating it elevates a brand into an experience. That's the realm where Micki Pagano and Tony Parente of Branding build their business. Bringing their Madison Avenue savvy to the art of branded video storytelling as they went into a transition from traditional advertising to creating narratives that forge an emotional bond between brands and audiences. Micki presents "The Road to Beyond," her book that offers a profound reflection on the 9/11 events, remindi...

In this episode I sit down with the remarkable Vera Mijojlić, the visionary founder behind the Southeast European Film Festival in Los Angeles. Together, we paint a vivid picture of a region's heart and soul, captured through the lens of its filmmakers. It's a conversation that transcends the expected narratives of conflict, inviting you to discover a world where the drama of real life inspires profound storytelling. My own memories of SEEfest, from teaching to adjudicating, serve as a testament...

When I embarked on my acting career, I believed success and happiness were always just beyond reach – until I realized that true wealth comes from within. This revelation is at the core of my conversation with the soul-centered Kyle Cease, who evolved from comedian to motivational speaker and author, guiding us through the 'starving artist' myth and beyond. Together, we dissect the often-misguided pursuit of happiness through achievement and challenge the societal norms that can blind us to o...

Can the look of a movie or series tell the story as much as the actors in it? Let's deep dive into the world of the dance of light and shadow through the lens of Emmy-nominated cinematographer C Kim Miles. Kim's remarkable journey from the colorful bustle of Malaysia to the high-stakes soundstages of Hollywood will captivate you. Starting from being a humble grip to a sought-after industry visionary, his international perspective brings a unique flavor to projects like "Yellowjackets" and "T...

There has been such a black cloud over the job of Studio Producers in the recent years, so we decided to bring on a rainbow and give you a peak behind the Hollywood curtain of studio producer Carol Baum, a fixture in the industry with credits like "Father of the Bride," who shares a wealth of knowledge from her latest book, reflecting on her 34-film journey and imparting lessons on maintaining the soul of original material. Carol speaks on behalf of all movie and television producers in her lat...

Have you ever wanted to know what makes a Hallmark movie? In this episode I chat with prolific television producer Jon Eskenas, whose development and on set expertise has been credited to several Hallmark and Lifetime movies and series. Having enjoyed professional interaction and a peer to peer friendship for 15 years, together we celebrate the power of Christmas and romance films, and let Jonathan's wisdom guide us in the process from script to screen. Get some valuable insights on: The myst...

My guest today is Vanessa Berlowitz, executive producer and founder of Wildstar Films, and the docuseries QUEENS currently airing on NAT GEO and DISNEY + where tales of female animals ruling their realms parallel the strides made by women behind the camera. Vanessa shares her experiences from the four-year filming odyssey, revealing the stark realities of climate change and the emotional sagas of the matriarchs in the animal Kingdom. The episode is a testament to the industry's evolving landsc...

Yeniffer Behrens is making HER CHOICES- in life and as an artist. I sat down with the power couple behind Latin X indie production companyTrueform Films, owned by Mauricio Mendoza and Yeniffer Behrens. to discuss their latest work, "Her Choices." Jennifer's personal saga of facing trauma, the echoes of her own life experiences resonate deeply within the narrative, bringing to the fore themes of family and resilience. Picture the transformative power of a film born from the very soul of its dir...

Matthew Kenslow, a name that symbolizes triumph and tenacity, joins us on the Heart of Show business podcast to share his extraordinary life's tapestry woven with threads of resilience and unique abilities. Living on the autism spectrum, Matthew's narrative is nothing short of uplifting—a beacon of hope that illuminates the endless possibilities of embracing one's individuality. As we traverse his life story, from the depths of bullying to the peaks of best-selling authorship and sought-after te...

Let's make waves as we chat with the esteemed Jean-Michel Cousteau, an icon in oceanography and champion for the seas. As we navigate the enchantment of marine life to the urgency of conservation, Jean-Michel imparts his lifetime of exploration and his father's profound legacy. His innovative approach to education shines through in partnerships with luxury hotels, turning them into platforms for marine awareness. At the same time, his passion for engaging the youth underscores our shared respons...

How can we radiate more love? How do we transcend Fear? How do we take back our minds to live our fullest potential? You do not want to miss this life-changing conversation with Reverend Michael Bernard Beckwith, the Founder of Agape International Spiritual Center. You may know him from "The Secret," but his work is that of a true humanitarian and spiritual luminary. In this conversation, we will transform your understanding of spirituality and its role in our lives. Our heartfelt exchange peel...

Ever wondered what powers the heartbeat of the global film market? Join me, Alexia Melocchi, on an informative conversation with Michael Favelle, the mastermind behind Odin's Eye Entertainment, as we bring up the twists and turns that today's filmmakers and sales agents navigate. From dissecting the vital role of film festivals and market attendance to examining the strategic slow dance of distribution deals, our conversation is a treasure trove of insider knowledge. Michael's anecdotes and seas...

Have you ever wondered what it's like to forge a career in Hollywood's glittering but daunting landscape, especially as an international actor? Join me, Alexia Melocchi, for a compelling conversation with Greek sensation Christos Vasilopoulos, who peels back the curtain on his Hollywood journey. From the bustling streets of Greece to the star-studded pavements of Los Angeles, Christos's story is a masterclass in determination and adaptability. We tackle the crucial aspects of accent neutralizat...

Have you ever set a New Year's resolution only to find it buried under a pile of forgotten dreams by February? I kick off the new season in my first solo episode of 2024. Join me as I open up about the trials of New Year's resolutions and the revitalizing art of setting purposeful goals. This Heart of Show Business episode reflects not just the whirlwind of the past year but a rallying cry to embrace our 'way'—the driving force behind our ambitions. I'll share stories of my goal-setting gaffes a...

In this special end-of-the-year Christmas themed podcast, I cover the fascinating world of Christmas ornaments with none other than the "czar of the Christmas present" himself, Christopher Radko of HEARTFULLY YOURS. This spiritual discussion is packed with stories that glisten with nostalgia and sparkle with joy. Christopher shares his journey from a child enchanted by Christmas to a renowned ornament designer, whose charming creations have adorned homes and hearts worldwide, including the White...

In this special end-of-the-year Christmas themed podcast, I cover the fascinating world of Christmas ornaments with none other than the "czar of the Christmas present" himself, Christopher Radko of HEARTFULLY YOURS. This spiritual discussion is packed with stories that glisten with nostalgia and sparkle with joy. Christopher shares his journey from a child enchanted by Christmas to a renowned ornament designer, whose charming creations have adorned homes and hearts worldwide, including the White...

Everybody uses everybody, don't they? This is one of my personal favorite lines from the movie Staying Alive with John Travolta and Finola Hughes, as it does tend to ring true in Hollywood. But I have always believed that Hollywood is also filled with kind and true artists, and Finola fits the bill. In this inspirational new podcast episode, I chat with Finola Hughes: acclaimed British actress, dancer, director, and executive producer. Finola takes us back to her childhood and shares how her lo...

This episode will transport you to the director's chair as we navigate the world of filmmaking with director Jay Russell. Prepare to uncover the pros and cons of a film-to-digital transition, discover why Jay cherishes the film's aesthetic, and discover how instantaneous feedback during digital shoots can be a game changer. The stakes escalate as we go behind the scenes of the fire scenes with the uber-talented Joaquin Phoenix. Gain insight into the treacherous yet thrilling experience of shooti...

Strap in for a thrilling conversation with the extraordinary Latina powerhouse Maria Conchita Alonso, whose stellar career graces a staggering 80 movies, 10 telenovelas, and three Grammy nominations. As Maria unwraps the layers of her remarkable journey, from her hometown in Venezuela to making her film debut on "Moscow on the Hudson," I can't help but notice her undying zeal for storytelling. The tales of this formidable trailblazer are bound to spark a fire in the hearts of budding performers...