Fascination Street

Riya SokolTake a walk with me down Fascination Street, as I get to know Riya Sokol. Riya speaks to me from Poland for this inspirational episode. In this episode, we chat about her growing up in Warsaw, and becoming a touring sensation as a 6-year-old child. We also discuss how & where she spent her Covid pandemic time, and the poem she wrote and released that made her a viral sensation. She shares very personal stories of her depression, as well as successfully navigating divorce while staying friends with her ex. Riya explains how she became obsessed with vibrations, the subconscious, and reprogramming your mind to be more receptive to: courage, love, freedom, and abundance. I ask Riya to explain mantras & the Tantra lifestyle, and what exactly are The Riya Sokol Codes; which are cheat codes for life hacking. Finally, Riya explains the meaning behind her hit song Ho'oponopono, and she lets me play another of her hit songs called Awaken As Love, before helping us understand why we should embrace even

Nicole ArlynTake a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know actress, author, producer Nicole Arlyn. In this episode, we chat about her growing up in a small community where there may have been some artistic elements to the local water source! Then we discuss what made her choose Ohio State University, and compete in The Miss Ohio beauty pageant, before leaving it all behind to follow her dreams as an actress in Paris, France. She tells us what brought her back to New York to study at The Neighborhood Playhouse, and what famous magician finally talked her into going to Los Angeles to make a name for herself in Hollywood. Along the way, Nicole shares stories of some of her acting projects like: Pot Luck, Clay Pigeons, and Til Death Do Us Part. Of course, I ask her what it was like to work with such greats as: Joaquin Phoenix, Michale Imperioli, and Jason Patrick. Finally, we get into why she decided to write 26 fantasy novels, including The Sugarspear Chronicles.... which she is turning into films

Arielle RayeneTake a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Arielle Raycene. Arielle is an actress, model, and tech start up entrepreneur. In this episode, we chat about how she got started in modeling at a very young age, then transitioned into commercial work, before taking some time off to go to college. Next, we dive into how she got back into modeling, and acting, we discuss some of her recent credits including, Kill Her Goats, Confidential Informant, and Bupkis. Arielle tells us what it is like to work with Mel Gibson, and Pete Davidson, and she explains what the ladies see in Pete. Naturally we talk a little bit about the SAG / AFTRA strike, before finally covering her new tech start-up company called Real AF. This new company will work with Apple Goggles in the spatial web. Along the way, we talk about: child obesity, catch 22s, Andy Warhol, Kim Kardashian, and a whole lot more!This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact

Greg PayneTake a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Greg Payne. Greg is the host of; The Cool Grandpa Podcast, the author of 'My Grandpa's Grandpa', and a friend. In this episode, we chat about the experiences Greg had with his grandparents, growing up, that made him want to start a podcast dedicated to grandfathers. We exchange stories about our respective grandparents, and we discuss what drew Greg to podcasting in general. Greg touches on some of the early difficulties of starting his own show, and how its going now. Then we talk about the new children's book: My Grandpa's Grandpa. This is a sweet story about a grandson who doesn't want to go to sleep, and stretches bedtime out by asking his grandpa, about HIS grandpa. This is a heartwarming story that came from Greg's actual life (more or less), and it is perfectly executed in this children's book. All along the way, we trade stories about podcasting, getting older, who this book & podcast are for, and of course, grandparents!Greg h

Jonathan Cilia FaroTake a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Jonathan Cilia Faro. Jonathan is a professional opera singer; more specifically, a tenor. In this episode, we chat about his growing up in Sicily, listening to opera, and why. We also talk about how he honed his singing skills, and what brought him to the United States. (Spoiler alert, he came to the U.S to follow "The American Dream". Jonathan explains why he is grateful to be an American citizen, and what America means to him. We discuss some of his recent singing projects, including working with Alan Parsons, Gary Chapman, and Donny Most. Plus, we get into his upcoming show alongside comedian Brad Stine: Spirit of America, on November 12th, at the Fisher Center in Nashville, TN. Along the way, we talk about how and why Jonathan became known as 'The Mob Chef', and why he enjoys cooking so much. He often appears on television programs and talk shows Cooking and singing at the same time! Jonathan has a new album out called Romanti

Stewart AnsteadTake a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Stewart Anstead. Stewart is an artist, more specifically a painter. He has produced some of the most beautiful and unique pieces I have ever seen. Some of his art is inspired by automobile racing, some is inspired by iconic athletes; but all of his pieces are themselves inspiring. In this episode, Stewart takes us on a journey of finding that thing in life that pulls you, that part of you that won't be ignored. He shares with us the path that led him from California's North Bay (Chico) to Utah (BYU), and the artistic steps along the way. We discuss the artistic value he sees in brands like: Nike, Converse, lettering, and even the human hand. Of course, we talk about such greats as: Warhol, Klimt, Picasso, Pollock, Banksy, and Bob Ross. Stewart's art is hanging in many homes & businesses, including The San Francisco Giants back offices, and comedian Adam Carolla's home. His art features the likes of: Paul Newman racecars, Shelby Am

Jeremy SwiftTake a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Jeremy Swift. You may know Jeremy from Downton Abbey, Apple TV's Ted Lasso, or the Wachowski Siblings' epic Jupiter Ascending. But you may not know that Jeremy is arguably a more talented musician, than he is an actor.Just kidding. He is superb in both endeavors!In this episode, we chat about how he came to be an actor, and some of his first roles. I mean he toured with a cabaret troupe that played shows in various prisons! Holy Moly! Of course, we discuss some of his experiences on the previously listed projects, and a couple of others. I ask him what it is like to work with his wife on set, and he spills the beans on Ted Lasso season 4!Jeremy also shares the story of why he chose to get his Sag / Aftra card, and his upcoming film: "Descendants 4: The Rise of Red". Next we get into music. Jeremy started playing music at a very early age, and we definitely dive into that aspect of his creativity. Jeremy shares stories of his punk phase,

Johan SvensonWelcome to a special episode of Fascination Street Podcast! I'm thrilled to have Johan Svenson, one of the insightful minds behind "The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning" on Peacock & Bravo joining us today. As we sit down with Johan, we'll embark on a fascinating journey through the world of art, design, and the art of letting go.Drawing from his expertise, we'll explore the intricacies of set design and how it enriches our visual experiences. Johan's insights will provide a unique perspective on creating immersive environments that resonate with audiences.We'll also dive into the innovative landscape of Johan's FabLab store, discussing the exciting projects and technologies that shape modern creative endeavors. Johan's experiences will shed light on how this space contributes to the ongoing evolution of design and craftsmanship.Switching gears, our conversation will take us across the seas to Missouri, where Johan will share insights about the unique Womon Town. This intriguing concept c

C.J. PierceTake a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know C.J. Pierce. C.J. is the founding guitarist for the platinum selling rock / metal band, Drowning Pool. In this episode, we chat about how the band formed, and how they got their first record label contract. Then we talk about the insane success of their first album, Sinner, which was certified platinum six weeks after it was released. Then we touch on the mega-hit 'Bodies', and how it keeps popping up in popular culture. It was featured in a recent episode of Queen Latifah's television show The Equalizer (on CBS), and it was just used by Shaquille O'Neal in his latest rap single release. Obviously, we discuss Ryan McCombs' return to front Drowning pool, and their latest tour. The SNAFU tour begins in early September, and is a national tour featuring: Drowning Pool, Saliva, Adalita's Way, and Any Given Sin. Drowning Pool's newest album, 2022's Strike A Nerve, was not handled very well by their at the time record label, so C.J., explains th

Bobby AmaruTake a walk with me as I get to know Bobby Amaru.In this episode, I sit down with the talented Bobby Amaru from the rock band Saliva. In this exclusive interview, we dive into the band's new music as Bobby shares insights into the band's latest album, Revelation. We discuss their SNAFU tour, and how they've navigated the ever-changing landscape of the record business. Discover the inspiring journey of Bobby writing music sober, and the creative process that has led to some of Saliva's most powerful and meaningful new tracks. We also talk about why he got sober, and the secret to Saliva's staying power. Tune in to this episode for a captivating conversation that offers a unique perspective on the music industry and the personal stories that drive it.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/4068452/advertisement

Aleeza Ben Shalom.Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Aleeza Ben Shalom. In this episode, we chat about her growing up in Philidelphia, before convincing her husband to move to Israel. Then we talk about how she became a dating coach, and a matchmaker. We discuss both of Aleeza's published books: 'Get Real. Get Married' & 'Virtual Dating', plus her forthcoming third book 'Date 'Em 'Til You Hate 'Em'. I ask Aleeza to explain many of her catch phrases (Aleeza-isms), and then we talk about her podcast. It's called Matchmaker, Matchmaker, and she co-hosts the love advice show with the Rabbi Yisroel Bernath (The Love Rabbi). Finally, we dive deep into her experiences on the Netflix reality dating show Jewish Matchmaking. She gives us some behind the scenes secrets, her thoughts on a couple of the cast members, and how she came to be part of the show. This episode has one of the most unique endings of any episode I have ever done. It ends with Aleeza giving me (and you) a personal bless

Harmonie Krieger.Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Harmonie Krieger. In this episode, Harmonie and I chat about her being an entrepreneur as a kid and starting her own party planning business. Then we discuss confidence and vulnerability, and her pop-up marketing business 'Pop Your Shop'. She tells me about the time she was on Joe Rogan's Fear Factor; and some advice that he gave her years later, when she ran into him. Then we discuss 'Life with Harmonie', which is a website, a podcast, and a community where likeminded individuals can help each other grow spiritually, and with their own personal improvement. Harmonie and I take a slight detour where we discuss the positive potential effects of micro dosing psilocybin mushrooms. **Neither of us is a doctor, we are not advising anyone to do this. We only discuss HER experiences, and benefits. Finally, we discuss her time on the Netflix reality show Jewish Matchmaking. She tells some fun behind the scenes stories, as well as how she th

Pamela SchullerTake a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Pamela Schuller. In this episode, Pam and I chat about her growing up with one of the worst diagnosed cases of Tourette Syndrome on record, and how that helped her develop an unparalleled resilience. Pam shares fun stories from Jewish summer camp, experiences as a comic, and how she became a diversity & inclusion keynote speaker for businesses, and organizations. Pam tells a couple of stories about being a comic with a serious disorder, and then we jump into her experience on Netflix's Jewish Matchmaking. Did Pam already know the matchmaker beforehand? Maybe. Was Pam kidnapped at Jewish Summer Camp? Definitely. Pam was a lot of fun to talk to, and she was kind enough to not judge my ignorance about Tourette, and answer all of my dumbo questions about it. Look for Pamela everywhere, go see her stand up, hire her as a keynote speaker, and of course check her out on Jewish Matchmaking!This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network,

Stuart ChasemanTake a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Stuart Chaseman. Stuart is a singer / songwriter in the Chicago area, as well as a cast member from the recent Netflix reality series: Jewish Matchmaking. In this episode, Stuart and I chat about his music. We discuss his previous album: Next Exit Brigadoon, and then dive into what made him want to become a songwriter in the first place. We talk about his newest record: Secrets, lies, & Alibis; and discuss the creative freedom that songwriters enjoy. We take an odd detour to talk about a recent news story where Stuart somehow caught the attention (and ire) of Ben Shapiro; and Stuart shares his thoughts on the matter. Finally, Stuart and I chat about his experience on the Netflix reality series: Jewish Matchmaking. I have tons of questions about his time on the show, and he is open and honest with all of his answers; including why he decided to be on the show, what he hoped to get out of it, and how he thinks he came off. Stuart do

Kacy RitterTake a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know middle grade author Kacy Ritter. In this episode, Kacy and I chat about her growing up traveling the world and visiting countless European castles. Then we delve into what it takes to be a writer. She humors me by discussing her first attempt at writing a novel. She wrote nearly 90,000 words and then scrapped the whole darn thing. I spend most of the episode telling her how to release it, and under whose names to do so; while Kacy tries to keep us on track to discuss her NEW book: The Great Texas Dragon Race. When I say 'new book', I mean it! This book comes out TOMORROW. We talk about why she decided to write this book, and why she chose this specific age range for her stories. We also talk a little about her forthcoming novel: The Marfa Monster Mystery. The plots of both of these books are refreshing and unique, and I can't wait to read them! I think you, or someone you know will be excited too! Lastly, we nerd out about a mutual favori

Dale PetersonTake a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Dale Peterson.Dale is the writer / director of the upcoming television series 'In Through the Out Door'.In this episode, we chat about his career. Starting as a music video director in the Detroit area, Dale made a name for himself in the music scene and quickly became a 'go to' for music videos. We touch on Dale's early struggles with dyslexia, and how he overcame some of those obstacles. Then we talk about a couple of documentaries that Dale made a few years ago; one was about the homeless population on Skid Row in Los Angeles, and the other was for National geographic about the return of wolves into Yellowstone national park. Of course, I ask him all about his feature film Hello, My Name Is Frank, which is a road trip comedy about a man with Tourette Syndrome. Then we move onto his newest project: In Through the Out Door, which is In Through the Out Door stars: Garrett M. Brown, Martin Copping, Christine Kilmer, and Jesse C. Boyd. Da

Kelly Lang ReturnsTake a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know even more about Kelly Lang. This is a return appearance for Kelly. Her first appearance (Sept 2021) is where we really get to know Kelly, and her back story. In this return visit, we chat about her new autobiography: I'm Not Going Anywhere, her new album: Old Soul II, and her newest single: I Think It's Jesus, which is also covered on Lorrie Morgan's new album. She shares stories about her longtime friend and confidant Olivia Newton-John, and how they met through Sir Barry Gibb. I also ask her about her friendship with previous guest BJ Thomas, and she lets me play that new single.Check out all things Kelly Lang at KellyLang.netThis show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/4068452/advertisement

Dina PariseTake a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know Dina Parise. In this episode, we chat about her growing up on Long Island, Ny., and how she became a professional ice skater for The Ice Capades. Next we move onto how she met her husband; who was an adiv street racer. Dina shares some street racing stories that helped convince her husband to stop street racing, and get onto the track. We explore what made Dina fall in love with the sport of drag racing, and how she evolved into a Pro Mod World Champion. Of course we discuss her 3000 hp Cadillac named Stella. Finally, we cover where her racing team is at now, and Dina shares information about a charity that helps uplift women pre / during / and post cancer treatments. Oh... and we find out why Dina is called The Spicy Meatball!This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/4068452/advertisement

Makenzie PhippsTake a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know County Music singer / songwriter, Makenzie Phipps. In this episode, we chat about how she started singing and playing the piano at a very young age, and the woman who pushed her and inspired her to become a singer, and a songwriter. With a minor focus on hymns, and gospel songs; Makenzie also writes and performs Christmas songs and country songs; including 'Amazing Grace', "Drag", and "A Little of Both', Makenzie was also recently awarded the 'Songwriter Achievement Award' in 2022 from The Josie Music Awards; for the unreleased song: 'Life's Game'. The woman that inspired Makenzie and this award-winning song was her Maw Maw; so we talk a bit about Maw Maw and her debilitating disease of Alzheimer's. Makenzie shares her feelings on how this disease affects the entire family, and she picks up a guitar and plays 'Life's Game' LIVE! Look for this song to be released with some sort of fanfare in the near future; and follow Makenzie on all

Carolyn JonesTake a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know author & filmmaker Carolyn Jones. In this episode, we chat about how growing up surrounded by the Amish inspired her to become a storyteller. Then we get into a small tangent about her being a rally car co-driver in the Paris to Dakar Rally! We get back on track and talk about some of her books, and then dive headfirst into her films. Carolyn is a documentary filmmaker who has a passion for telling stories of hope, inspiration, and heroism. We discuss her films: Defining Hope, The American Nurse, In Case of Emergency, and her upcoming documentary Catalysts. We go all over the place here folks; from sharing stories of those affected by HIV/AIDS, to hospice care, and the role that nurses play in all of our lives. This episode is at once touching and sorrowful, and I hope you enjoy every single bit of it as much as I did.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at