Billy Aronson on Sparking RENT and Surviving the Creative Struggle

Mitchell Hadley, author of Darkness in Prime Time, The Collaborator, and The Car, joins the show for a wide-ranging and nostalgic deep dive into the world of classic television. A cultural critic and passionate observer of how entertainment reflects society, Mitchell unpacks the lasting relevance of mid-20th-century programming. From prophetic episodes of The Bold Ones to the absurdity of reboot culture, this conversation connects the dots between yesterday’s tube and today’s timeline. Whether it's the eerie accuracy of old anthologies or the quiet genius of TV Guide as a sociological lens, Mitchell brings history, storytelling, and insight together in a conversation that makes you want to dust off the rabbit ears and rethink everything you thought you knew about reruns. Episode Highlights: How Darkness in Prime Time reveals the haunting accuracy of 50s–70s TV dramas Why The Collaborator and The Car explore faith, identity, and existential mystery Mitchell’s view of television as a cultural “time capsule” — not just entertainment The story behind Reagan’s political rise as captured in early TV Guide profiles What classic shows got right about censorship, privacy, technology, and politics The problem with modern reboots and why nostalgia doesn’t always translate Why The Brady Bunch movie worked while Wild Wild West fell flat A strong case for watching one episode a week, old-school style How TV has lost its communal power in the binge-watching era The surprising seriousness and ambition of forgotten dramatic anthologies   You're going to love my conversation with Mitchell Hadley Website (itsaboutTV) Facebook This Week in TV Guide Books: Darkness in Primetime The Electric Mirror The Collaborator The Car: a novel Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host): Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Join my mailing list Subscribe to my Youtube channel Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show Ways to support the show: Buy me a coffee (support the show) Dashery/TeePublic Store: Classic Conversations merch and more! Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.  

A candid, nostalgic sit-down with Larry Wilcox traces the arc from Marine Corps vet and Beverly Hills acting student to character actor on Lassie and, ultimately, CHiPs’ John Baker.   Larry shares how Lassie became a crash course in continuity and stunt work; why CHiPs was his “hardest” role and how he worked with California Highway Patrol advisors to keep the technical details real; and what CHP bike training looked like when he and Eric handled ~90% of the on-camera riding. The conversation turns vulnerable as he recounts Eric Estrada’s near-fatal set accident and the leadership, calm, and compassion required in that moment and later, the choice to reconcile. Wilcox also opens up about producing wins and war stories (Ray Bradbury Theater, rights battles) and the new projects he’s chasing now. Show highlights Early break on Lassie: four “Lassies,” trainer Rud Weatherwax, and a trial by fire in stunts and continuity. Why CHiPs was the hardest role and how he carved depth into John Baker over time. Casting and negotiations that led to CHiPs (and even a near-miss with Miami Vice). CHP technical advisors, realism vs. TV spectacle, and the details of approaching cars, mounting/dismounting, and uniform standards. The raw, human story of Eric Estrada’s on-set crash and the life-and-death minutes that followed—and why forgiveness later mattered even more.   You're going to love my conversation with Larry Wilcox IMDB Larry's website Twitter Instagram Cameo Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host): Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Subscribe to my Youtube channel Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show Ways to support the show: Buy me a coffee (support the show) Dashery/TeePublic Store: Classic Conversations merch and more! Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.  

Elizabeth Bowen brings her signature wit and warmth to this conversation, sharing hilarious and heartfelt stories from her acting journey.   Known for her standout role as Deputy Liv Baker on Resident Alien, Elizabeth talks about everything from childhood plays to landing roles in shows like Fargo and Upload. With her deadpan delivery, unexpected path to stardom, and delightful Canadian charm, she dishes on working with Alan Tudyk, handling dialects, and even why she doesn’t mind flying under the fame radar unless it scores a better restaurant table. Episode Highlights: Starred as Deputy Liv Baker in the hit sci-fi comedy Resident Alien Appeared in multiple episodes of Amazon’s futuristic satire Upload Made her mark as Trooper Sue Lutz in the critically acclaimed Fargo Guest-starred on comedy series like Animal Control and Loudermilk Known for her dry, deadpan delivery and sharp comedic timing across all roles  You're going to love my conversation with Elizabeth Bowen IMDB Instagram Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host): Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Join my mailing list Subscribe to my Youtube channel Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show Ways to support the show: Buy me a coffee (support the show) Dashery/TeePublic Store: Classic Conversations merch and more! Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.  

Taylor Blackwell joins the conversation to discuss their heartfelt short film It Happened: The Judy Tenuta Story.   Taylor Blackwell joins the conversation to discuss their heartfelt short film It Happened: The Judy Tenuta Story. As writer, director, and star, Taylor shares what drew them to the legendary “Aphrodite of the Accordion,” and how they brought Judy's origin story to life with authenticity and affection. From voice work to costume detail, and even playing Judy’s original accordion, Taylor unpacks the creative journey, challenges, and emotional payoffs of this tribute to a beloved comedy icon. They also touch on their acting career, their connection with Burt Reynolds, and how their diverse talents continue to shape their artistic path. Episode Highlights: How Taylor Blackwell turned admiration into storytelling through a Judy Tenuta origin film The creative decisions behind portraying a real person in a 13-minute narrative How Judy’s voice, persona, and legacy were honored in the film Collaboration with Judy’s partner and the use of her original costumes and accordion Taylor’s musical roots, accordion performances, and their vision for a full-length feature   You're going to love my conversation with Taylor Blackwell IMDB Website  Instagram Facebook Taylor's band Movie Trailer: “IT HAPPENED: THE JUDY TENUTA STORY” More Judy Tenuda? Listen to episode 118 with Judy Tenuta Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host): Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Join my mailing list Subscribe to my Youtube channel Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show Ways to support the show: Buy me a coffee (support the show) Dashery/TeePublic Store: Classic Conversations merch and more! Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.  

From the golden age of sitcoms to the family-favorite films that defined childhoods, Brian Levant has done it all.   In this in-depth conversation, he reflects on his decades-long career across television and movies—sharing heartfelt memories from Happy Days, wild behind-the-scenes stories from Beethoven and Jingle All the Way, and the extraordinary journey of bringing The Flintstones to life. With passion, humor, and a touch of sentimentality, Brian reminds us why the classics never fade. Episode Highlights: A nostalgic journey through Brian Levant’s Hollywood legacy from live-action Bedrock to rebooting Beaver. Directed the most successful show in Disney Channel’s early history: The New Leave It to Beaver Reveals the real reason he took over directing Beethoven and the shocking backstory of the original director Shares the ambitious production secrets behind The Flintstones live-action film, including building Bedrock from scratch Reminisces about working with legends like Elizabeth Taylor, Phil Hartman, and Arnold Schwarzenegger Talks about overlooked projects, lost opportunities, and his mission to preserve his creative legacy   You're going to love my conversation with Brian Levant 50 Years of Happy Days: A Visual History of an American Television Classic Brian Levant IMDB Brian's Instagram More Happy Days?  Anson Williams (Potsie) - Episode 110 Marion Ross (Mrs. C) - Episode 114 Don Most (Ralph Malph) - Episode 116 Linda Purl - Episode 343 Jim Meskimen - Episode 145 Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host): Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Join my mailing list Subscribe to my Youtube channel Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show Ways to support the show: Buy me a coffee (support the show) Dashery/TeePublic Store: Classic Conversations merch and more! Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.  

Before Bob Illes was writing for The Carol Burnett Show, Smothers Brothers, and Silver Spoons, he was just a kid trying to climb inside his black-and-white TV.   In this wildly funny and revealing conversation, Bob shares the misadventures, backstage feuds, celebrity run-ins (hello, Groucho Marx and Peter Sellers), and ridiculous showbiz politics that shaped his decades-long career in TV comedy. From bombing in front of Joey Bishop to being snubbed by Steve Martin (but in a friendly way), it’s a behind-the-scenes rollercoaster full of laughs and jaw-dropping moments. Episode Highlights: What it’s like to write comedy for Cosby, Carol Burnett, and Fred Willard Bob's college radio show that accidentally became a star-studded madhouse The truth behind Jason Bateman getting booted from Silver Spoons Why Groucho Marx had to keep his cigar wrapped in plastic Pitching a gay bar storyline to Sanford & Son… in 1973   You're going to love my conversation with Bob Illes IMDB Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host): Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Join my mailing list Subscribe to my Youtube channel Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show Ways to support the show: Buy me a coffee (support the show) Dashery/TeePublic Store: Classic Conversations merch and more! Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.    

From his days hiding in the bushes at celebrity parties to orchestrating beloved TV cast reunions, William Keck has done it all.   In this discussion, the Emmy-nominated producer and tabloid veteran returns to share more behind-the-scenes stories from his wildly entertaining memoir "When You Step Upon a Star." Keck opens up about the emotional impact of his reunion specials, his time at the National Enquirer, and the magic (and mayhem) of bringing TV families back together decades later. Whether you loved Happy Days, The Love Boat, Gilligan’s Island, or The Waltons, this conversation is a nostalgic goldmine. Episode Highlights: How reunions for shows like Happy Days and The Waltons came to life Behind-the-scenes secrets from Gilligan’s Island, Dynasty, and The Brady Bunch casts The emotional toll (and joy) of helping cast members reconnect for the final time Funny and touching moments from autograph encounters at fan conventions Reflections on aging TV legends and the sensitive side of bringing them back on screen   You're going to love my conversation with William Keck IMDB When You Step Upon A Star (William's Book) Instagram Twitter Facebook Even more William - check out this previous episode Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host): Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Join my mailing list Subscribe to my Youtube channel  Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show Ways to support the show: Buy me a coffee (support the show) Dashery/TeePublic Store: Classic Conversations merch and more! Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.  

William Sadler reflects on decades of unforgettable roles, from “Die Hard 2” to “The Shawshank Redemption” to his comedic turn as the Grim Reaper in “Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey.” In this intimate and revealing conversation, he opens up about his evolution as an actor, his love for the stage, and the meaningful moments that shaped his journey, from early theater days to iconic movie sets. Get ready for behind-the-scenes stories, unexpected vulnerability, and a heartfelt appreciation of the craft. Episode Highlights: Tales from the early theater days and how they shaped his discipline and craft The real story behind Die Hard 2’s infamous nude scene—and how little time he had to pr Memories of filming Shawshank Redemption and working with Morgan Freeman Why Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey gave him a chance to finally be funny William's heartfelt music project “The Kitchen Tapes” which benefits St. Jude Children’s Hospital   You're going to love my conversation with William Sadler IMDB Buy The Kitchen Tapes Facebook YouTube SPONSOR: STAMPEDE SOCIAL Drive engagement from your social channels and podcast with Stampede Social's Instagram and Facebook DM automation! Visit https://stampede.social Also check out: Why Instagram + Stampede Social Is the Growth Strategy Podcasters Need in 2025 (and Beyond) Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host): Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Join my mailing list Subscribe to my Youtube channel (watch Crossing the Streams!) Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show Ways to support the show: Buy me a coffee (support the show) Dashery/TeePublic Store: Classic Conversations merch and more! Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.  

Playwright, author, and creative force Billy Aronson dives deep into his journey, from conceiving the idea behind RENT to writing for iconic kids’ shows and opening up about personal struggles with depression. This candid and humorous conversation explores the ups and downs of a life in the arts, his Emmy-winning work in children's television, and the powerful inspiration behind his new book Out of My Head. Billy shares what it really means to create, collaborate, and keep going, even when the applause isn't guaranteed. Episode Highlights: The origin of RENT and his collaboration with Jonathan Larson What it’s like to watch your concept become a global phenomenon Why failure is more powerful than success — and what it teaches you Behind-the-scenes stories from Peg + Cat, Beavis & Butt-Head, and Short Attention Span Theater Honest talk about depression, resilience, and finding joy in creating   You're going to love my conversation with Billy Aronson Billy's book: Out Of My Head - Learning to Reach People Through the Arts SPONSOR: STAMPEDE SOCIAL Drive engagement from your social channels and podcast with Stampede Social's Instagram and Facebook DM automation! Visit https://stampede.social Also check out: Why Instagram + Stampede Social Is the Growth Strategy Podcasters Need in 2025 (and Beyond) Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host): Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Join my mailing list Subscribe to my Youtube channel (watch Crossing the Streams!) Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show Ways to support the show: Buy me a coffee (support the show) Dashery/TeePublic Store: Classic Conversations merch and more! Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.

To mark the 50th anniversary of Jaws, author and film historian Pat Jankiewicz dives deep into the legacy of the iconic 1975 film and its ripple effect on cinema, culture, and shark lore. From behind-the-scenes stories and casting quirks to the fascinating inspirations behind the original novel, this episode is a rich tribute to one of the greatest American movies ever made. Pat brings his signature depth of knowledge and love for classic film to share stories that even die-hard fans might not know. Whether you're a lifelong Jaws fanatic or just rediscovering its magic, this episode is a nostalgic thrill ride into open waters. Episode Highlights: Pat Jankiewicz breaks down how Jaws changed the face of filmmaking forever while honoring its legacy 50 years later. Why Jaws holds up despite being a product of the 1970s The real-life shark attacks that inspired Peter Benchley’s novel Casting chaos and the surprising path to Roy Scheider, Robert Shaw, and Richard Dreyfuss Behind-the-scenes drama and technical struggles during filming How Jaws defined the modern blockbuster and inspired Shark Week More Pat? Check out episode 175, where we dive into The Incredible Hulk TV series. You're going to love my conversation with Pat Jankiewicz Hulk Companion Book Buck Rogers Companion Book JAWS Companion Book IMDB More Jaws? Jaws 2 deep dive with Billy Van Zandt Joe Alves - building the shark Carl Gottlieb interview SPONSOR: STAMPEDE SOCIAL Drive engagement from your social channels and podcast with Stampede Social's Instagram and Facebook DM automation! Visit https://stampede.social Also check out: Why Instagram + Stampede Social Is the Growth Strategy Podcasters Need in 2025 (and Beyond) Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host): Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Join my mailing list Subscribe to my Youtube channel (watch Crossing the Streams!) Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show Ways to support the show: Buy me a coffee (support the show) Dashery/TeePublic Store: Classic Conversations merch and more! Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.