Inside Of You

Stephen Amell (Heels, Arrow) joins us this week and, as always, hits us with openness and honesty. Love the guy. He talks about the birth of his newest son, the idea of seeking external validation through fame, and how all of his previous anxieties could be tied to withdrawals. We also talk about the future of Heels with the current Starz and Lionsgate untangling, how he would feel if it ended prematurely, and what a potential return to Arrow would look like today.

Emmanuelle Chriqui (Superman & Lois, Entourage) joins us this week and opens up on the pivotal moments that changed her life while also getting emotional reconciling the losses in her family. Emmanuelle was awesome this week!! She talked about the hypocrisy of people trying to paint Entourage with a misogynistic brush, and what her real experience was like on the set with the guys. We also get into auditioning for Sandler, how she injured herself in Superman & Lois, and the methodology that transformed her life.

J. K. Simmons (Whiplash, Spiderman) joins us this week to share stories from his time in this industry going from waiting tables and scrounging for pizza - to becoming an Academy Award Winning actor and making his name in films like Whiplash, Spiderman, and Juno… J. K. talks about the love that is behind the anger of many of his iconic performances while going on to tell us what the most fulfilling moment of his career was with the great Aaron Sorkin. The real treat of this episode was when his brother, David Simmons (The UBU Project) joined us. David talks about being a suicide attempt survivor and how he’s using his experience, recovery, and musical background to save the lives of our youth. Powerful episode this week folks, hope you enjoy it. To learn more about the UBU Project visit ( https://ubuproject.org/ ) and if you want to support their mission I urge you to checkout their upcoming benefit concert on Saturday, January 28th ( https://ubuproject.org/ubu-benefit-concert )

Dan Fogler (Fantastic Beasts, The Offer) joins us this week and opens up about the little miracles that he manifested throughout his career to pull himself out of lulls and how he keeps a ‘do or die’ philosophy to drive him forward. Dan shares what it was like shooting Fantastic Beasts in the UK over the last several years and what a surreal experience it was for him playing Francis Ford Coppola in The Offer. We also get to hear a match between dueling Christopher Walkens, some on-set stories of the late great Carrie Fisher, and Dan’s uncomfortable run-in with Michael J. Fox.

Zachary Levi (Shazam!, Chuck) joins us once again to give Amell a run for his money for Inside of You appearances. Zach never disappoints with getting deep and this week he gives a healthy (much needed) dose of self love. From the power of observing generosity, to collective manifestation, to the celestial ‘chicken and egg’ - we get into a lot this week. The meat of it revolves around self love and acceptance but Zach also talks about his mental health journey through the decade after Chuck ended and what his thoughts are around the Shazam! Sequel.

Shannon Elizabeth (American Pie, Scary Movie) joins us this week and shares her experience of handling false perceptions throughout her life - from school, to modeling, to Hollywood, and more. Shannon shares the heart breaking story of what called her to action with her conservationism and her mission of saving animal lives with The Shannon Elizabeth Foundation. We also talk about her experience auditioning and negotiating throughout the American Pie films, how she was able to manifest a role in Scary Movie, and how she might be the best celebrity poker player out there.

Jonathan Frakes (Star Trek: The Next Generation, Picard) joins us this week to take us where no guest has gone before… sharing his experience over three decades in the Star Trek franchise and teasing a special reunion during this new season of Picard. Jonathan talks about his experience playing Riker, working with the one and only Patrick Stewart, and the cast’s reaction to learning about Wil Wheaton’s situation off set. We also talk about handling loss, his credit with Phish, and some hilarious stories from his late great father.

Jim Gaffigan (Linoleum, I’m Too Lazy) joins us this week to share his journey as a creative - evolving from a realization that he may never be successful, to becoming a household name as a stand up comic during the Comedy Central heyday, and eventually pursuing indie roles as an actor to satisfy his need for creative fulfillment. Jim talks about his experience growing up as an outsider in middle America and how he had to battle anxiety and stage fright early on in his career doing standup. We also talk about the idea of handling rejection, how he weighs new opportunities in light of his wife’s health, and the empty success of living up to someone else’s expectations.

Rachael Leigh Cook (She’s All That, A Tourists Guide to Love) joins us this week and shares her story of quickly moving from Hollywood aspirations growing up in Minnesota to feeling like she was playing catch-up, unable to enjoy the success of the late 90’s box office smash: She’s All That. Rachael was amazing this week!! She talks about the idea of feeling haunted by potential and the weight of the expectations she placed on herself, because of the solid upbringing and support she had behind her. We also talked about how motherhood was the ultimate life changing switch, how entertainment is a game of ‘pay now’ or ‘pay later,’ and some infamously uncomfortable audition stories.

Sam Witwer (Being Human, Star Wars) joins us this week and we get deep. He opens up about reassessing his life and how people’s impression of him being a screw up molded his self image for years. Sam talks about how this industry encourages people to hide vulnerability and put up a front; and how some of the false fame that can come as a side effect of this can be harmful to your mental health. Whole lot of real life talk in this episode, but we also get into Sam’s love for (and career with) the Star Wars franchise, how some of the SiFi issues resolved on Being Human, and his experience in Season 8 of Smallville.

Michael Biehn (Terminator, Aliens, Tombstone) joins us this week and shares countless memories from his storied career. From his tenure alongside James Cameron, to his fond memories with Bill Paxton, and even revealing the truth about Michael Rooker - Biehn has a ton of fun stories this week. Not only that, but Michael opens up on his dependency on alcohol early in his career, and how hitting rock bottom was the only way to prevent more self destruction. We also get into his friendship with Doug Stanhope, the mess of working on Tombstone, and how he’s gained his confidence back after a stroke.

Larsen Thompson (The Midnight Club, Horrorscope) was an amazing fricken guest this week. She shared her early entry into acting after having to walk away from her passion of dancing for health concerns. Larsen opens up on the idea of her perfectionism and how she’s learned to turn that off while acting, prioritizing performance over her own appearance and ego. We also talk about working with Mike Flanagan on The Midnight Club, her first role under Anthony LaPaglia, and how a retweet from Beyoncé helped catapult her career.

David Wain (Wet Hot American Summer, Role Models) joins us this week to share how he’s paved his unique path in comedy for decades without sacrificing his style for commercial recognition. David takes us back to his early days at NYU bumping shoulders with guys like Ken Marino and Joe Lo Truglio, going on to form a group full of comedic household names in The State. We also talk about finding the brilliance in Paul Rudd’s performance, issues shooting Wet Hot, and staying creative while preferring structure.

Morena Baccarin (Deadpool, Gotham) rejoins us this week to share her side of the situation with Deadpool 3 while remembering fond times on set with Ryan Reynolds and traumatic underwater stunts that got cut. Morena talks about thriving in the chaos of being a working mother of three and how her husband, Ben McKenzie, has been helping sound the horn against the current crypto bubble in his new book. We also talk about her thoughts on a return to Firefly, how she was involved in the It’s Always Sunny origins, and why she still struggles with impostor syndrome despite success throughout her career.

Brent Spiner (Star Trek, Independence Day) joins us this week to drop some bombs about a certain someone’s return from the dead in Picard Season 3. Brent shares how he feels about being recognized (mostly) for a single character as Data in Star Trek - and later gets into the weeds on what his experience with the android has been like over the last few decades. We also talk about lessons learned from Joe DiMaggio, how he beat himself out for a Saturn Award, and tons of stories from his other roles in Night Court, Master of Disguise, and more!

Scott Caan (Hawaii Five-0, Alert) joins us this week to talk about how his approach to this industry has evolved over the years and what the difficulties are of coming off of a procedural like Hawaii Five-0 after a decade. Scott opens up fondly about his relationship with his late father James Caan, why his loss was somewhat relieving, and how his childhood was both a hero’s tale and cautionary lesson. He also talks about writing and starring in his new film One Day As a Lion opposite JK Simmons, his deep friendship with the late great Paul Walker, and the discipline he’s gained through decades of jiu jitsu.

Krysten Ritter (Jessica Jones, Breaking Bad) joins us this week to talk about finding the subtext in roles and how she feels the most ‘herself’ while on set - however, she opens up on how the pressure, publicity, and politics behind the scenes brings out her anxieties. Krysten talks about her enjoyment while filming Breaking Bad and what it was like to shoot one of the most gut wrenching scenes anyone has seen on TV. We also talk about how special of a show ‘Don't Trust the B in Apartment 23’ was, how she had to grow up quickly in the world of modeling, and where she thinks the future of Jessica Jones is heading.

The boys are back… Al Gough and Miles Millar (Wednesday, Smallville) join us to talk about everything that went on behind the scenes with creating Netflix’s biggest new series Wednesday! The guys talk about the nerves of getting Tim Burton involved in the project, the difficulties of filming during the pandy in Romania, and how just about every studio said ‘no’ to (what would become) the second most popular TV series of all time. We also talk about the evolution of storytelling with streaming services, how they’ve mastered the art of teenage sci-fi, and of course… our time together on Smallville.

Taran Killam (SNL, Killing Gunther) joins us this week to share his opinion on attention and rejection as an actor with a unique perspective of having been cast in two iconic sketch shows: Mad TV and SNL. Love the honesty in this episode… Taran shares some pretty uncomfortable moments with heroes like Jack Black and Dave Grohl, while also being open about how he rekindled his relationship with his now wife, Cobie Smulders. We also talk about his audition for Pete in Smallville, who made him crack the most on both Mad TV and SNL, and what it was like to work with Arnold Schwarzenegger on his self directed film.

Frank Grillo (Purge, The Grey) joins us this week to share how behind the tattoos, muscles, and grit he has transformed his life to be in service to those who are at their lowest point. Frank shares how his bond for Liam Neeson came full circle after working with him in The Grey, and also how working with Nick Nolte in Warrior changed his career. We also talk about his background as a fighter, his switch to DC from Marvel, and his experience working with friends of the show Scott Caan and JK Simmons on One Day As a Lion.

Paul Abdul (American Idol, Forever Your Girl) joins us for (quite possibly) our longest interview with story after story that will leave your jaw dropped. From changing her identity to become a Laker Girl, to being baby-sat by Michael Bolton, to choreographing the Jacksons, to surviving a plane crash, to having a psychic tell her about her future with American Idol years before it aired… Paula shares it all this week! Huge thank you for her openness, especially when it came to our shared experience with spinal injury (and surgeries) and how she never gave up after nearly 2 decades with excruciating pain. Too many good stories in this episode, hope you all enjoy.

Switching it up this week folks - we have a fun episode. Welcome in, Warren Eckstein, animal trainer to the stars, former mob-boss dog behaviorist, and… my uncle! If you’ve been listening for a while now, hearing little clips about my family, then you’re going to enjoy this episode. Warren shares classic stories training dogs for Hollywood royalty like Rodney Dangerfield, Al Pacino, Lily Tomlin, and more. We also talk about his unique friendship with David Letterman, Howard Stern’s strange question during his appearance, and the importance of loving your dog, instead of being a disciplinarian.

Gates McFadden (Star Trek, Labyrinth) joins us this week to share her decades worth of experience with Star Trek - from her true feelings about certain storylines, to her bond with the Next Generation cast, to her favorite reveals in Picard. After some ‘inside baseball’ talk about our shared passion for podcasting, Gates shares terrifying stories of coming face-to-face with her stocker multiple times… before there were safeguards or laws that protected women from predatory men. We also talk about her love for David Bowie, her forgotten kiss with Bill Murray, and her time working alongside muppet master Jim Henson.

James Gunn (Co-CEO of DC Studios) returns to the pod this week to talk about his takeover of the new DC content slate, the differences between DC and Marvel, and all the pressure that comes with creating a new Superman film. James goes back and discusses the impact that creating Guardians of the Galaxy had on his career and how ‘allowing himself to give a s***’ was a large catalyst to its success. We also talk about embarrassing Chris Pratt moments, whether or not there are too many superhero films, and the future of Superman’s bald headed villain.

Eric McCormack & Steven Weber (Will & Grace, Wings) join me this week on Inside of You to talk about their new show Eating Out… get your heads out of the gutter. We go back and forth over our journey in the industry and how - as time progresses and mortality sinks in, we begin to move past ‘the superficial’ and allow ourselves to get deeper. These two were a blast, make sure you check out their new show! We also talk about Eric‘s feelings about the reboot of Will & Grace, Steve’s stories of how the old guard of television had difficulties adapting to new TV, and some horror stories of auditioning.

Andrew McCarthy (Pretty in Pink, Weekend at Bernie’s) joins us this week to talk all about his New York Times Best Selling book “Walking with Sam” and how he’s learned from tumultuous experiences with his own family how important it is to have honest, adult relationships with his children. Andrew goes on to talk about his relationship with the Brat Pack, how the association negatively impacted his career, and what it’s been like reuniting with its members. We also talk about his opinion directing TV, being a cultural touchstone for a generation of people, and his fondness for Weekend at Bernie’s.

Dee Wallace (Cujo, E.T.) joins us this week and shares her passion for teaching life, creation, and manifestation while taking us through the heartbreaking loss that triggered transformation. Dee defends the impact that horror films can have on children while sharing awesome stories from her time filming Cujo, The Hills Have Eyes, and other classics. We also talk about her experience shooting with Steven Spielberg, the idea of controlling your own energy, and trying to keep up with Dudley Moore.

Seann William Scott (American Pie, Dude Where’s My Car?) joins us this week to share why his new film The Wrath of Becky was so fulfilling and how they were able to create a perfect blend of comedy and horror. Really appreciate Seann getting open this week… He talked about some of his lowest points in life and why he‘a always maintained a sense of gratitude throughout his career. Of course, we also talk about his opinion of Stifler in American Pie, his time on Old School with Will Ferrell, and why Christopher Walken continued to dog him on The Rundown.

Carrie-Anne Moss joins us this week to share the work she's done to be able to sustain such a career in this industry by prioritizing internal validation over external praise and not feeding into the false hype of Hollywood.

Néstor Carbonell (Bates Motel, Lost) joins us this week and shares his experience coming from a family of Cuban exiles, following expectations of going to Harvard, and then using leverage to make a name for himself on one of the biggest shows of all time... Lost. Néstor was great this week. We talked about his humble beginnings, and never 'taking for granted' his countless guest-starring roles.

Rachel Bilson (The O.C., Jumper) joins us to clarify some important questions we had, like: is farting in a relationship kosher and does coffee constitute dating - In all seriousness, she was great this week.

Helen Slater (Supergirl, The Legend of Billie Jean) joins us this week to talk about her experience being thrust into the iconic role of Supergirl at 18 years old and the many different pressures and difficulties that came along with it.

Paul Walter Hauser joins us this week to share how he mentally prepares for his transformative character roles in projects like Richard Jewell and Blackbird, while also being present, hilarious, and able to do a mean Gilbert Gottfried impression.

Paul Wesley (The Vampire Diaries, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds) gets candid with his experience on Vampire Diaries from the stress filled, frantic auditions to the burn out of the CW hit show spanning nine years.

Bonnie Wright (Harry Potter) joins us this week to share what it was like growing up in the middle of one of the largest film franchises of all time in Harry Potter - going from age 9 to 19 as Ginny Weasley.

Awesome episode this week. James and Oliver Phelps (Harry Potter, Fantastic Friends) joins us to share their experience in one of the biggest film and media franchises of all time - Harry Potter.

Jamie Kennedy joins us this week to reflect on his tenured career making cult classics like Scream and Malibu's Most Wanted, while pointing out how much the industry has changed and where he sees it devolving.

Anthony LaPaglia (Empire Records, Without a Trace) joins us this week to share story after story from his incredible tenure in this industry and how he's been able to sustain such a respected career.

Ryan Kelley joins us this week and talks about his unique experience of growing up as a child actor with 14 siblings and hitting it big on one of MTV's most successful series Teen Wolf.

Vincent D'Onofrio (Law and Order, Full Metal Jacket) joins us this week and opens up on his process of letting go on set, fully embracing the idea of failure in service of a better artistic performance.

Heather Langenkamp joins us this week to share her experience as one of the most iconic scream queens as Nancy in A Nightmare on Elm Street and what her opinion of horror as a genre has turned into.

Candice King (The Vampire Diaries, After We Collided) joins us this week and is an open book - talking about her experience with the cast and crew of Vampire Diaries, how there is no 'one size fits all' approach with therapy, and the stress of shifting relationship dynamics like divorce. Candice shares stories about how the shows she's been a part of have helped people during lulls in their lives and how a series can be that safe space for people. We also talk about curating your social media for positivity, not being afraid to show your flaws, and some totally not resentful closure on past flings.

Jamie-Lynn Sigler (The Sopranos, Not Today Pal) returns this week to share her cathartic breakdown and the work she's done over the last five years to process her journey with MS.

World famous new wave radio DJ Richard Blade joins us this week to share endless stories from his iconic career full of huge name drops.

John Glover (Smallville, Tony Award Winner) joins us in studio for an open and honest conversation about aging in this industry while wanting to stay busy amidst all the craziness that has surrounded us over the past few years.

Peter Facinelli (Twilight, Nurse Jackie) joins us this week to share the crazy experience of going from the lead actor to director in ON FIRE.

David Krumholtz joins us this week to candidly share his experience overcoming thyroid cancer, the difficulties surrounding this disease while working in Hollywood, and how it was preceded by a nine month panic attack.

Adrianne Palicki (Friday Night Lights, The Orville) joins us this week to discuss her experience in this industry - evolving from wanting to escape from Toledo to now wanting to avoid the incestuous nature of comparison within Los Angeles.

Jennifer Love Hewitt (Ghost Whisperer, 9-1-1) is back on the pod this week to share beautiful lessons from her late mother and how they've allowed her to navigate life with gratitude and a priority for passion (not obligation).

Alan Ritchson (Reacher, Blue Mountain State) joins us again this week for an open an honest conversation about his current mental health coinciding with the industry validation and massive success of Reacher.

This week we're joined by the band Dogstar with members Keanu Reeves, Robert Mailhouse and Bret Domrose. Make sure you check out their new album 'Somewhere Between the Power Lines and Palm Trees' because we get into a lot of it this episode. The guys share their feelings coming back after decades of not performing together and the catalyst that brought the band back. We also get into the idea of nerves driving performance, horror-story gigs, and the therapeutic power of music.