Actor Don Lake | The Brett Allan Show

Actor Don Lake | The Brett Allan Show In this episode of The Brett Allan Show, Brett sits down with legendary actor, writer, and comedian Don Lake for a wide-ranging conversation that spans decades of comedy, collaboration, and Hollywood evolution. Don takes us back to his early days with the iconic Canadian sketch series SCTV, sharing behind-the-scenes stories from one of the most influential comedy incubators of all time. He also reflects on his formative years at The Second City, and how improv shaped his voice as both a performer and writer. The conversation dives into Don’s longtime friendship and creative partnership with Bonnie Hunt, exploring how collaboration and loyalty have played a key role in his career longevity. Don also talks about his recent work on the Netflix comedy Space Force, and what it’s like working in modern ensemble comedies. Plus, Don shares insights into voice acting and animation, including his involvement with the highly anticipated Zootopia 2, and how the industry continues to evolve. This episode is packed with comedy history, career wisdom, and candid stories from one of entertainment’s most respected character actors. 🔔 Episode Highlights: Early days and impact of SCTV Training and breakthroughs at Second City Decades-long friendship with Bonnie Hunt Working on Space Force Voice acting and Zootopia 2 Lessons from a lifelong career in comedy and acting WANT MORE www.brettallan.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Documentary "If You Tell Anyone"-The Brett Allan Show If You Tell Anyone… is a Documentary written and produced by Norman Fried, PhD; Nathan Spiteri, and Dean Love.   This film is based on the true-life story of Australian born author/actor Nathan Spiteri, adapted from his memoir Toy Cars; One Man’s Journey from Trauma to Triumph. Raped at the age of 8 years old by a man in a public locker room, Nathan endured five years of repeated abuse. His abuser kept him quiet by telling him… “If you tell anyone, I’ll kill you and I’ll kill your whole family.” As in all abusive relationships, Nathan was groomed and manipulated to believe that what was happening to him was his own fault.  Nathan was unable to tell anyone about what had happened to him for 25 years. As a result, his adult life spiraled into addictions to alcohol, drugs and sex. He became suicidal before finally breaking down and telling someone what had happened to him.   Nathan is now able to tell his story through the artistic structure of this documentary. The film explores the arch of transformation that young Nathan underwent as he discovered a more redemptive way of living and healing. Through real footage of trauma therapy sessions, Nathan and Dr. Norman Fried describe how healing from child sex abuse is possible.   The goal of the film is to inspire other abuse victims to speak up and to get the help they need; while also helping parents and other caretakers recognize the dangers and symptoms of a child who may be being sexually abused.   This is a powerful and cautionary story about the complexities of childhood trauma and its aftermath, starring Nathan Spiteri and Norman Fried, and directed by three-time Emmy Award winning documentary filmmaker Dean Love.   Learn more about Nathan Spiteri HERE.   Nathan Spiteri’s TEDx Talk can be found HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sydney Kane is 'Wife Material' | The Brett Allan Show WANT MORE www.brettallan.com Sydney Kane is an NYC based actor, singer, comedian, writer who has performed everywhere from off-off-off-barely Broadway to the big 9x16 iPhone screen. A graduate of Pace University with a BFA in Musical Theater, she’s done improv at UCB and Second City and gained a following on social media for her extremely insightful dating content. With sharp comedic writing and quick witted lyrics, Kane brings a warm and unassuming stage presence, leveling with her audience in a fearless self-depreciating humor but always with a knowing wink from the stance of striking confidence without flinching. People think she is very wise, especially straight men. (follow @sydneymorgankane on all social media.) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Brett Allan Show — Conversation with Actor & Playwright Dan Lauria In this episode of The Brett Allan Show, Brett sits down with the legendary actor, writer, and storyteller Dan Lauria—best known for his iconic role as Jack Arnold on The Wonder Years, his work on Sullivan & Son, countless television and film credits, and his ongoing impact on the American theatre scene. Dan joins the show to talk about his brand-new play the evolution of modern storytelling, the real future of Hollywood, and what continues to inspire him after decades in the industry. Whether you’re a fan of his classic TV work, his stage productions, or you just love great conversation, this episode is a must-listen. ⭐ Episode Highlights Dan Lauria discusses his new play —how it came to life, the creative process, and what audiences can expect. The legacy of The Wonder Years: why the show still resonates across generations. Behind the scenes on Sullivan & Son and working alongside a comedy-driven cast. How the entertainment industry has changed—and Dan’s unfiltered thoughts on where Hollywood is headed. The power of live theatre and why Dan continues to return to the stage. Advice for creators, writers, and actors navigating a shifting industry. 📌 About the Guest: Dan Lauria Dan Lauria is an acclaimed actor, playwright, and storyteller with a career spanning film, television, and stage. He is beloved for his role as Jack Arnold on The Wonder Years and has starred in numerous shows including Sullivan & Son, This Is Us, Blue Bloods, and more. His passion for the theatre continues through his original works, including his latest play Pitch. 🎧 Listen to the full episode now on your favorite podcast app! Subscribe and never miss a new celebrity conversation on The Brett Allan Show. www.brettallan.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Television and Pop Culture Icon Rhonda Shear is Back (She Never Left)! | The Brett Allan Show WATCH HERE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPQjvQBmhishttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPQjvQBmhis Up All Night, the cult-favorite late-night movie showcase hosted by Rhonda Shear that lit up USA Network from 1989 to 1998, is making its long-awaited return on YouTube. The revival comes through a partnership between Shear Enterprises, LLC, and Horror Online Video Store Experience, Kings of Horror, which just had its premiere episode on October 25 and now will be back with a special Thanksgiving-themed show on Saturday, November 22, at 10:00PM. And don’t be surprised if Rhonda serves up a celluloid turkey or two. "Up All Night was never just a show—it was an attitude... and maybe a little eyeliner, cleavage, and sarcasm," said Shear. "Now we’re back—louder, sassier, and somehow even funnier. Teaming up with Kings of Horror means we’re not just dusting off VHS tapes—we’re throwing a full-on horror house party at my Shear Media Studios in Tampa Bay on custom nostalgia-dipped sets. We’ve got a killer team of writers, comedians, and production partners ready to unleash all-new skits, twisted characters, and laugh-your-ass-off moments.” The series will spotlight indie horror from grassroots DIY to festival standouts, alongside cult classics and premieres. The creative team includes scream queens Linnea Quigley and Felissa Rose, musician John Brennan, special guest /comedic actor Yuki, and filmmaker Richard Gabai. Not only will this show reconnect Rhonda with her legions of Up All Night fans, it will also introduce her to a new generation who discovered her as the award-winning lingerie mogul behind Rhonda Shear Intimates and the Ahh Bra infomercial sensation. “I can’t believe Up All Night premiered 30 years ago—this new incarnation is going to blow my longtime fans out of the water—and trust me, we will be dragging a whole new generation into some late-night chaos they didn’t know they needed," exclaimed Shear. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Roxanne Messina Captor – A Driving Force for the Arts in California | The Brett Allan Show WANT MORE? www.brettallan.com Roxanne Messina Captor who is one of California’s most influential cultural leaders. An Emmy-nominated writer, director, and producer—and a protégé of Francis Ford Coppola—she has shaped the creative landscape of film, television, and theatre for decades. Appointed by Governor Gavin Newsom as Chairperson of the California Arts Council, Messina Captor plays a pivotal role in advancing arts policy and ensuring that creativity remains at the heart of California’s identity and economy, including being part of the conversation for the tax Incentive for productions in the state. VISIT: https://roxannemessinacaptor.com to learn more about her current projects. In addition to her creative achievements, Messina Captor has been a tireless advocate for California’s creative workforce. She has worked alongside the Governor to expand film tax incentives, serves on the Creative Economy Workforce committee, and is an appointed board member for the California State Summer School for the Arts at CalArts—mentoring and empowering the next generation of artists. Her work documenting Grammy-winner Stanley Clarke’s three-year residency at BroadStage, as well as her acclaimed projects centered on veterans and women’s stories, further highlight her commitment to using the arts as a platform for education, equity, and community.   From Broadway to Hollywood to global festivals, Messina Captor has elevated California’s cultural presence on the world stage. Her leadership, vision, and passion continue to ensure that the arts thrive as both a powerful storytelling force and an essential driver of the state’s creative economy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Actor Robert Carradine on Hollywood Legacy & The Party Nerds Pop-Cast | The Brett Allan Show In this episode of The Brett Allan Show, host Brett Allan sits down with legendary actor Robert Carradine, best known for his iconic role as Lewis Skolnick in the cult classic Revenge of the Nerds franchise. A true member of Hollywood royalty, Robert opens up about growing up in the famed Carradine acting dynasty, working alongside Hollywood greats, and how his experiences on and off screen have shaped his life and career. Robert also talks about his latest creative venture — The Party Nerds Pop-Cast, his hit podcast co-hosted with longtime friend Richard Gabai. Together, they explore nostalgia, pop culture, and the magic of 1980s and ’90s entertainment from an insider’s perspective. About The Guest Robert Carradine is an American actor, producer, and musician whose career spans over five decades. From The Cowboys with John Wayne to Revenge of the Nerds and Lizzie McGuire, Robert has cemented himself as a pop-culture icon. He’s also the co-host of The Party Nerds Pop-Cast, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, where he and Richard Gabai share Hollywood stories, deep dives into pop culture, and interviews with fellow legends. 🎧 Listen to The Party Nerds Pop-Cast: Apple Podcasts WANT MORE? www.brettallan.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Laughs Underground with Autumn Bruewer” | The Brett Allan Show Episode Summary In this episode of The Brett Allan Show, host Brett Allan sits down with Autumn Bruewer for a hilarious, candid conversation about her rise through the comedy scene — from improv house teams at The Second City and IO West to her TV work on Dear White People and her viral stand-up clips that have racked up millions of views. We dig into how she crafts material that feels personal yet universal, what it’s like breaking into Los Angeles as a woman in comedy, and how she approaches live shows differently than social media sets. Autumn also gives a behind-the-scenes look at her upcoming live show in Denver and shares tips for aspiring comedians and fans alike. How Autumn’s improvisation training at Second City and IO West shaped her comedic voice. Stories from her guest work on Dear White People and her appearance on the Laugh Factory “Spotlight” series. The transition from viral online clips to headlining stage tours and the differences in energy, audience, and pacing. What audiences can expect from her live show — style, vibe, interaction. A live-show build-up: Autumn’s show tomorrow in Denver at the Denver Comedy Underground — with tickets, event details, and why you don’t want to miss it. (See below for links.) Guest Bio Autumn Bruewer is a stand-up comedian and actress based in Los Angeles, originally from Cincinnati. She began her career performing improv on house teams at The Second City and IO West. denvercomedyunderground.com+1 She’s appeared on the Netflix series Dear White People and features prominently in the Laugh Factory “Spotlight” series. Her stand-up content has gone viral across social media, and she has shared the stage with comedy legends like Jay Leno, Jimmy Pardo and Laurie Kilmartin. denvercomedyunderground.com What: Autumn Bruewer – Live Stand-Up ComedyWhen: November 6, 2025 at 7:30 PM (doors at 6:30 PM) denvercomedyunderground.com+1Where: Denver Comedy Underground, 675 22nd St, Denver, CO 80205 Tickets: Official venue ticket link: Denver Comedy Underground – Autumn Bruewer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Brett Allan Show | Comedian Erica Rhodes on Comedy, Creativity, and Staying Authentic www.brettallan.com Welcome to another episode of The Brett Allan Show, where we dive deep into the minds of today’s most fascinating entertainers. This week, Brett sits down with the hilarious and insightful Erica Rhodes — stand-up comedian, writer, and actress known for her sharp wit, relatable humor, and appearances on “A Prairie Home Companion,” “Modern Family,” “Veep,” “New Girl,” and more! ✨ Her journey from open mics to performing on national stages 🎭 What it was really like appearing on AGT and how it shaped her career 😂 How she balances vulnerability and humor in her stand-up 💡 Building confidence and connection through comedy 🎤 The behind-the-scenes grind of writing new material and performing live 🔗 Connect with Erica Rhodes 🌐 Website: https://www.ericarhodescomedy.com 📸 Instagram: @ericarhodes 🐦 Twitter/X: @ericarhodes Subscribe to The Brett Allan Show for weekly conversations with the most interesting names in comedy, TV, and entertainment: 🎥 YouTube: The Brett Allan Show 🎧 Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | iHeartRadio 🎧 Listen & Subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Actor Douglas Widick (North Coast, Suite Tea Studio, Toxic Masculinity: The Musical) In this episode, Brett Allan sits down with New York-based actor, comedian, musician, and improviser Douglas Widick. We dive into his multi-faceted career—as a founding member of the hip-hop improv troupe North Coast, his work in musical theatre and long-form improvisation, and his upcoming one‐man show Paperclip (in which he re-imagines the Microsoft Clippy mascot). You’ll hear Douglas’s insights on creativity, performance, taking risks, and the intersection of comedy and music. Douglas’s early creative roots: How he discovered improvisation, comedy, and music. The formation and worldwide touring of North Coast—how they blended hip-hop and improv, and what it taught Douglas about building ensemble and flow. Douglas-Widick+2theweereview.com+2 Transitioning from ensemble improv to solo work: the challenges, the freedom, and the mindset shift. The concept behind his one-man musical Paperclip—how Clippy the Microsoft mascot becomes a time-travelling hero in an absurdist musical story. theweereview.com+1 Balancing multiple creative hats (actor, comedian, musician, producer): What it takes to stay consistent and driven in New York’s theatre/comedy scene. Advice for performers and creatives: embracing failure, staying present, connecting with the audience, and letting ideas evolve. Upcoming projects, how to follow Douglas’s work online, and where to see his next live show or performance. Get behind-the-scenes stories from a performer who has mastered improvisation, musical theatre, and live comedy. Be inspired by Douglas’s unconventional path—from hip-hop improv to one-person musicals—showing how creative careers can evolve in unexpected ways. Hear practical tips for performers, writers, comedians, and anyone interested in the mindset of creative longevity. Discover an innovative show (Paperclip) that defies expectations and blends music, humour and theatre in fresh ways. Douglas Widick is an actor, comedian and musician based in New York City, and a founding member of the hip-hop improv group North Coast, which was recognised as one of TimeOut NY’s Top 10 Comedy Shows of 2014. theweereview.com+1 He’s a veteran performer at venues including the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre (UCB), the PIT Theatre and Magnet Theater in NYC. theweereview.com+1 In addition to ensemble work, he writes and performs original musicals—his solo show Paperclip is an example of his unconventional comedic-theatrical voice. theweereview.com+1 Official website: douglaswidick.com – includes bio, resume, upcoming shows and contact info. Douglas-Widick Instagram: @douglaswidick – live updates, show announcements, behind-the-scenes. Instagram YouTube: Douglas Widick channel – clips, music videos and improv sketches. YouTube “My comedy style is, ‘Dad on vacation got handed the microphone.’” — Douglas Widick theweereview.com “Everyone loves a comeback story, and Clippy has been experiencing a bit of a positive resurgence in the meme circuit as of late.” — Douglas on Paperclip theweereview.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices