Wizards of Waverly Pod

Get your popcorn ready because this week we are joined by Wizards of Waverly Place casting director Ruth Lambert! Ruth gives us all the juicy goss on the casting process for not only Wizards but a TON of Disney movies she’s worked on like Lilo and Stitch, The Lion King, and The Emperor’s New Groove. We also get a little ~saucy~ and confront David on why he didn’t show up to his callback for Jerry Russo ???? PLUS Ruth reveals which OG cast member was almost recast… Why is Hellfire from The Hunchback of Notre Dame so creepy? The Emperor’s New Groove was supposed to be a musical?? And WHY was Ruth originally let go from casting wizards???

Welcome back to WizardsPod! This week we’re talking (and cringing) about bad dates while recapping “Beware Wolf”. Just like Justin in this episode, Jen and David have a few dating horror stories, especially when it comes to blind dates and online dating. Jen and David share stories from their romantic lives, while also discussing how Disney felt about ~spicy~ scenes on the show…(although some may say they were more lukewarm than spicy). PLUS when talking about the lore of becoming a werewolf David and Jen accidentally discover a MAJOR plot hole in the wizards series??? Why did Jen ghost the person she was dating? WHY did someone pull a knife on David?? And WHAT IS THE PLOT HOLE???

Everyone make some noise for our guests this week Ezra Weisz and Darrin Butters!!! Have you ever wondered what it was like to be in the audience when your favorite tv shows are filmed? Well here is your moment to hear exactly what it’s like! Ezra and Darrin, our warm up team from day one, tell us how they entertained the audience during our live studio audience tapings. From talent shows and raffles, to explaining green screen Disney magic, these two are truly multi-talented kings! And since they’ve been with us since the beginning, the also have the BEST behind-the-scenes stories told exclusively here at the most magical podcast in the universe…WizardsPod Which super popular animated cartoon show is Ezra on?? Which iconic Disney movies has Darrin animated?? And HOW did they become the warm up guys for Wizards???

This week on Wizards Pod we are recapping “Graphic Novel” in ~style~ with the hilarious Yasmine Sahid. You may have seen Yasmine cracking people up on tiktok, dropping a banger on spotify, acting or writing for tv and film, aaaand maybe on the dating app Raya ???? (serious inquiries only). We talk with Yasmine, about the horrors of the dating scene right now, edgy Disney jokes, and our favorite Alex Russo moments. David is in which Twilight movie?? Which photoshoot did Jen ruin as a kid?? And HOW did Yasmine become a TikTok sensation overnight???

Let’s take a trip back to Alex Russo’s first love interest with this week’s guest, Dan Samonas! You may remember him as Dean Moriarty, the bad boy who sold tattoos in the boys bathroom. Dan opens up about his experience on Wizards, including getting in trouble for kissing Selena Gomez. Plus, Dan reveals the real reason he left the entertainment industry. Why did Dan Samonas get in trouble on the Wizards set? What was it REALLY like working with the Wizards cast? Tune in now!

David and Jen dive into the hilarious "Racing" episode, exploring the comedic wonders of an invisibility poncho and mind-reading device. They open up about flirting tactics, ultimate dream cars, and the artistry of physical comedy. Plus, we’re chatting about the importance--and challenge--of embracing the present moment. Whose minds would David and Jen read if they had the chance? How does Jen approach flirting? Was Disney trying to copy Nickelodeon? Tune in now!

Today we’re joined by actor and comedian Jonathan Kite. From his experience guesting on Wizards to co-starring on 2 Broke Girls, to the emotional rollercoaster of auditions and working with icons like Jamie Foxx, Jonathan takes us through the highs and lows of a life in Hollywood. Jonathan is spilling ALL the tea today! What’s it like auditioning for SNL? What advice did Whitney Cummings give him before he worked on 2 Broke Girls? What’s it REALLY like working with Jaime Foxx? Tune in now!

We revisit the charm of “Alex’s Brother Maximan” while diving into the intricate world of teenage dating. From navigating the social complexities of relationships to sharing tales of first kisses, we’re spilling the tea on dating tips and pickup moves. Plus we have a special guest -- join us as we welcome David’s wife Julia on the show! Did Jen used to sneak alcohol from Selena’s family’s house? What are Jen and David’s go-to pickup moves? Tune in now!

This week we talk with our resident bad girl, Leven Rambin! From acting in the soap opera, All My Children, to starring as Glimmer in the hit movie franchise, The Hunger Games, Leven has done it all! We remember her, though, as the sweet, then evil angel Rosie. Leven shares her audition story for the Hunger Games and the pivotal role Wizards played in her journey. She also reveals some of the secrets behind the creation of her character Rosie, and why she so desperately wanted to be on Disney Channel! Why was Leven forced to dye her hair red for Wizards? Who did Leven live next during the peak of Disney?? And what does Leven say about her chemistry with Justin Russo??? Follow Leven @levenrambin on Instagram and TikTok.

This week while recapping “Saving Wiz Tech Part 1”, we talk all things behind the scenes of this episode. From Jen falling down stairs yet again, to needing answers about plastic being a wizard’s kryptonite, we come in full force with nostalgia! Jen and David debate over the validity of Dean’s bird house gift to Alex, and reminisce on the joy Professor Crumbs, Ian Abercrombie, spread on set. What is the “Jen Stare”? Who supplied the candy drawer on set and when was it used?? And WHO would Jen and David shapeshift into???

Welcome back to part two of 'Saving Wiz Tech’! This week Jen and David discuss their favorite directing choices of the episode. They talk about the logistics of vampire teeth causing everyone to speak with lisps and share their thoughts on the creepiness of Dean in jello. They also share their favorite moments from this episode, involving characters like Max and Professor Crumbs! Is Jen related to a famous country star? Which part of the episode would David have changed?? And why couldn’t the actors say ‘jello’ on the show???

Welcome back to Wizpod! This week we are joined by our Wizards of Waverly Place makeup artist Thea Samuels! Thea talks about the changes that occurred from season 1 to 2 and shares her opinion on working for both Disney and Nickelodeon. She also shares the magical journey of watching the cast grow up throughout the seasons. Plus, Thea reveals how she discovered she wanted to be a makeup artist and how she landed working for Wizards of Waverly Place and more! What is Danny Devito like in real life? Why did Thea quit her dancing career? And how did switching to HD change the makeup world??

This week on Wizardspod we are recapping the very highly anticipated episode “Harper Knows”, where Alex finally reveals to Harper she is a wizard. Our dynamic duo starts off by telling us which famous singer grew up watching Wizards of Waverly Place and knew David as a kid through family connections. David and Jen talk about the suspense of disbelief in this episode, specifically with the outer space scene. They notice that this miiiight be the first episode where we hear about Jeremy from science, but we need you to help us figure it out! Lastly, Jen vulnerably discusses her fourteen year old self’s insecurities in this episode and what she would say to her today. David wore his Wizards costume where? Which storyline did David want to change in this episode? And which famous sibling duo did Jen meet while rock climbing???

Welcome back to WizPod! This week we are recapping and diving behind the scenes of the “Taxi Dance” episode. Jen talks about her stunt in this episode and how she wanted it to be as real as possible, and David shares some of his crazy stunt experience in his other roles. We also discuss how this episode has our first “See you in PE!” line. Our hosts share what it’s really like to do eating scenes on television, and how they’re not as fun as you might think. And finally, Jen and David debate the Russo family’s house layout. Which part of the episode were Jen and David’s favorite? Which easter egg did the writers hide in this episode? And where does the door in the Russo living room actually lead to???

Welcome back Wizardspod Fam! This week we are honored to be joined by Saturday Night Live alum, comedy legend, and fellow podcaster, Rachel Dratch! Rachel shares her journey from being a psychology major to auditioning for SNL, as well as how she was asked to play Future Harper on Wizards. Rachel shares the secrets behind her most iconic SNL sketches, and what the protocol is when they break character. She also dives into her fascination with the supernatural and her favorite memory from working on Wizards. What was Rachel’s first job? Why was Rachel rejected the first time she auditioned for Saturday Night Live? How did Rachel and Tina Fey meet and what bonded them as friends?

This week on WizPod we recap one of the weirder Wizards episodes… “Baby Cupid”! Jen and David nerd out of video games and medieval torture devices. Jen shares memories of her first school set teacher and the impact she had on her. David questions whether family planning class is still a thing as they rewatch Alex Russo using the class as an excuse for having Baby Cupid. Jen and David also reveal that Baby Cupid was played by two different babies…and that it was quite obvious! What is Jen’s attachment style? What did Harper’s hair sweater actually feel like in real life?? And why is Jen so scared of Baby Cupid???

This week on WizPod we recap a very special episode, “Make It Happen”, where we get our first glimpse of Selena Gomez and The Scene. Jen shares how Disney stars typically were tied to a record deal, and how it was not always the best deal. David also shares a behind the scenes casting secret for this episode, and reveals which real life story from his life made it into the script. Jen and David also discuss what their back up plans were and what they believe you should be doing in your twenties. What’s David Saddle Ranch story? What’s it like to be the lead of a Disney show?? And has David finally learned how to sing???

We have a very special treat today for our WizPod Fam! Today’s guest is David’s godfather and legendary filmmaker Mel Brooks! Mel is a Hollywood icon most known for making comedic movies. He reminisces on stories of David as a kid and how he met David’s father Dom. Mel talks about how he defied studios and always stuck with his gut on what he wanted to do. Mel gives us all the behind the scene secrets on creating his most acclaimed films, from recasting a role due to an actor’s major injury, to huge film studios saying no to Mel’s films that would go on to become huge successes. Does Mel think it is easier to make an audience laugh or cry? Does Mel Brooks watch ‘The Real Housewives of New Jersey’? What does Mel Brooks want the younger generation to hear?

This week on WizPod, we recap the “Fairytale” episode, and share some behind the scenes secrets you can’t find anywhere else! David talks about his favorite moments from this episode, including bloopers involving his past crush. Jen talks about her love of community theatre, specifically when things go amiss! She also discusses what it was like to grow up in the High School Musical craze, and asks David if he was a big theatre kid growing up. Which Wizards crew member had a secret cameo in this episode? Which costume piece did David steal from this episode? And which junior musical denied Jen entry into the show?

This week on the pod we are recapping “Fashion Week” as well as answering some fan questions! Jen spills on why Miley Cyrus and Selena Gomez were never in scenes together during their crossover episodes. David shares stories from knowing Johnny Depp back in the day when he was filming the movie “Crybaby”. Jen also gives the BTS details on the iconic rubber ducky dress that appears in this episode, and reveals which outfit she loved wearing most. Which Harry Potter house would Harper and Jerry be in? Did David make his own Jerry action figure? And who is David and Jen’s favorite character on the show?

The following video contains content about the sensitive topic of suicide. Discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling or in a crisis, help is available. Call or text 988, or chat 988lifeline.org. This week we welcome comedian Fred Stoller to the Pod! Fred is most known for his numerous roles on ‘Everybody Loves Raymond’, ‘The Nanny’, ‘Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide’, and many MANY more! However, our favorite role of his is Dexter on ‘Wizards of Waverly Place’. Fred tells us his journey from denying roles on Hannah Montana to loving his time learning about twitter and the dougie with the Wizards cast. He shares how he landed his first staff writing job on a sitcom, and also how he wrote two books. He also recalls his favorite wizard memories with David and Jen, and reveals why it was his favorite show to work on. Why does Fred apologize to Jen? Which tv show did Fred get cut from? And what advice did Fred give to one of the Wizards cast members??

This week we are recapping the ‘Helping Hand’ episode, and discussing David’s new status as a grandpa in the wizards universe! Jen shares her experience having undiagnosed diabetes type 1 while filming wizards, and Jen and David discuss the gen-z belief of work life balance. David reveals a special wizards cameo in “Curb Your Enthusiasm” and shares how being a grandpa makes him feel old, but excited! Jen also gives us a current rendition of the iconic Harper cry-laugh! Was the helping hand inspired by a real event in David’s life? How did the Hollywood Forever Cemetery inspire this episode? And do David and Jen agree with the gen-z perspective on life???

This week on WizPod we are recapping “Art Teacher” and trying to figure out where all the paper towels in the studio went… David breaks Jen by doing a hilarious bit, and Jen reveals that before Wizards she could not get a Disney audition for the longest time. David shares some fun facts about the new Wizards show, as well as some behind the scenes secrets on what Disney does with all the costumes and sets of your favorite shows once they are finished. David and Jen also discuss what it was like working with Misty May Treaner and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Why can’t Jen wear patterns? Why wasn’t anyone allowed to refer to Dwayne Johnson as “The Rock”? And which Wizards character reminds David of his wife?

This week on Wizards we are joined by Wizards Hair Stylist Roxie Sarver! The hair and makeup room always has the best stories, and Roxie truly delivers with her behind the scenes secrets! She shares how Jen and Selena kept trying to change up their hair, even though it went against Disney rules, and why she was skeptical of working for Disney initially. She also reminisces about her favorite hair styles she created on the show, and shares some never before seen photos with us you can find on our instagram throughout this week. She also exposes one of the wildest conversations she had on the Wizards set… Why did Selena get extensions during the show? Which A-List actor requests Roxie to style his hair? And who is the biggest butthead Roxie has worked with??

This week on the most magical podcast in the universe, we recap “Future Harper” and get the lowdown on how Jen felt when she heard this episode was all about her. David and Jen discuss the ethics of future Harper exposing her and Alex’s magic stories, and theorize who the most powerful wizard is that aided future Harper. David also reveals how the famous actor Rob Reiner ended up in the outro video of this episode. Why was Disney mad at the writers in this episode? Which aspect of David and Jen’s life would they want to fictionalize? And which props did Jen and David steal that are used in this episode??

This week on the pod we are recapping “Alex Does Good” featuring actress and comedian Jo Anne Worly! Jen and David dish about dating in LA and David reveals how his first ever date went. Jen and David discuss how silly the happy helpers club in this episode is, and relate it to their real life experiences in situations like this club. Jen and David also talk about how weird Max’s chaperoned date is, specifically how Justin flirts with Max’s date! How does Jen view Harper as a person? Which clubs were Jen and David in when they were in school? And which super famous director did David’s brother do high school theatre with?

This week on WizPod we welcome our guest Maxwell Acee Donovan! You may recognize Maxwell from his work on Netflix’s “That 90’s Show” or Disney’s “Gabby Duran and the Unsittables”. Maxwell shares with us his journey into acting, specifically how he landed his role on “That 90’s Show” and how he almost didn’t get it. He also reveals what it was like to work with David on the set of “That 90’s Show” after growing up watching him on Wizards, and how he and David bonded on set. Maxwell also shares his favorite Wizards episode and asks the questions all fans have been wondering… Why wasn’t Jen in the Wizards movie more? WHo is Maxwell’s favorite OG “That 70’s Show” cast member to work with? And what Wizards merch does Maxwell own that even the cast of Wizards doesn’t own?

This week on the pod we are recapping the iconic episode “Hugh’s Not Normous”! Jen and David reveal the movie magic behind the special effects of the episode, specifically how they made Alex and Hugh shrink and grow inside her bedroom. They also discover a plot hole where Jerry’s dad is given two names in two different episodes. Jen then shares her “Harper scream moment” at Universal Studio’s Halloween Horror Night, and David talks about how the key to playing younger roles. Why does Jen think we should all be more like Max Russo? Was there a Wizards of Waverly Place softball team? And whose mom was in the sequel to Annie the musical?

This week we are joined by writers and producers Gigi and Perry as we dive into the behind-the-scenes magic of the fan favorite episode “Family Game Night”! Gigi and Perry reveal why the shift from family centered plots to crazier mayhem plots occurred during season 4, and how they found ways around certain parameters. They also share their experience in the casting room, with Jen revealing the actress who almost played Alex Russo. David asks how the writers came up with all the spells, and what Theresa’s job before the sub station was. Gigi and Perry also share if they write kid shows and adult shows differently. Why couldn’t the writers use the actual game of charades in the episode? What trick do producers do in casting to make sure their favored actor gets chosen?? And who was the famous actress that was nearly Alex Russo???

Join us in this inspiring episode as we sit down with Amber Frank, known for her role in The Haunted Hathaways on Nickelodeon. Amber opens up about her journey as a young actor, starting from her childhood in Florida to facing numerous rejections in the competitive world of acting. She reveals her complicated audition process for The Haunted Hathaways and how she was nearly cast for The Thundermans. David, Jen, and Amber also discuss how being teachers at AGB Studios, where they help young actors achieve their dreams, has healed their inner child. Why was Amber almost not cast in The Haunted Hathaways? Why did people make fun of Amber during her preteen years? And what joke did a Nickelodeon star say to Amber that hurt her feelings??

Thank you to our sponsor’s at Lumen: if you want to take the next step in improving your health, go to lumen.me/WIZARDS to get 15% off your Lumen. This week on the pod we recap “Don’t Rain On Justin’s Parade”, and discuss some of our fav heartbreaking and hilarious moments. David reveals the origin of Selena Gomez’s love for pickles, and Jen shares her favorite Max line in the entire show. David and Jen talk about how sad the Harper being bullied scene made them, with Jen explaining what Harper would ~really~ be like if she went to regular high school. Jen and David also share the negativity associated with being a method actor, as well as why it’s so dang hard to remember all the guest stars from episodes many many moons ago. Are witches and wizards the same thing? Which actor in this episode did David have a hard time believing? And who breaks the fourth wall in this episode??

This week on WizPod, Jen and David are joined by the iconic Ezra Weisz as they recap "Justin's New Girlfriend". Ezra explains why this episode was so special to him and the cast, and how the team was able to pull off the Charlie Chaplin energy. The crew talks about why Wizards is one of the greatest shows of all time, and reveal what the original names of Justin and Alex were. David points out some secret cameos, while Ezra points out the glamification of Selena Gomez this episode. Why does Ezra not believe Theresa works in the sub shop? How did the 'Annoying Orange' find its way in the Wizard world? And why was Selena Gomez wearing so much makeup??