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 conversation...

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 w...

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...

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 "The B...

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 direc...

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...

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 neutralizati...

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 ...