Disney park employees, also known as “cast members,” are the impetus for keeping the magic alive for guests. 

In order to do so, they must abide by a list of rules – from the way they talk, point, do their hair, and even how they pick up (“scoop up”) trash from the floor. And the performers have an even longer list of Disney do’s and don’ts. 

Married co-hosts Matt Gourley (Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend co-host) and producer Amanda Lund (Drunk History) launched an eight-part, weekly docuseries “Keys to the Kingdom,” which goes behind-the-scenes to explore the experiences of past and current Disney performers. 

The rules may seem somewhat bizarre in comparison to other workplaces, but to Disney, they are strict and necessary to maintain the park’s clean and happy environment. 

The couple are former Disney “cast members” and met while working as characters at Universal Studios – so they know their stuff in the theme park world. The two share their strange and personal anecdotes of the decades they spent working at Disneyland and how it led to them meeting and having their own fairytale ending.

Focused on the sometimes strange and often heartwarming stories of current and past Disney performers, the podcast has a documentary tone that includes fake voice-overs for those who want to remain anonymous to protect their theme park jobs.  

Notable guests include Taran Killam, Scott Aukerman, Sona Movsesian, Jeff B. Davis, and more – making this podcast a must-listen for everyone from Disney enthusiasts to cynics. The stories reveal the good, the bad, and – yes, even, the ugly – of working at the Happiest Place on Earth. 

Gourley discussed “Keys to the Kingdom” in a recent video interview with Jackie Moe of Backstage SoCal.

(Side note – interview begins with Lund joining in on the interview, but had to tend to their adorable 2-year-old daughter!)

Get 8 full-length, bonus companion episodes featuring numerous extended and unheard interviews and more at https://plus.acast.com/s/keystothekingdom

The post ‘Conan’ Co-host and Podcast Guru Matt Gourley Chats New Disney Docu-Podcast appeared first on Backstage Socal.

The six-episode audio fiction podcast stars Joel Kim Booster (Shrill, Sunnyside), playing the part of Paul, a late 20-something who lives at home with his mother in the quiet suburb of Downey, California. He wants to come out to his mom about his homosexuality, but he is a second generation Korean American who only speaks English, while his mother, Gina Mi-sook Kim, only speaks Korean. 

We chatted with James about the inspiration behind the podcast series, and how it hits home on a personal level for him.  

What was the process of creating Moonface, a story so close to your own, like for you?

Liberating. It was nice to reimagine situations that happened in my life and rewrite my history. I could say things I never said in those real-life moments, have events play out differently, for better or worse, and I got to analyze my emotions, thoughts, and feelings in a way I’ve never done before. It was like being my own therapist. 

Since this story is based on personal experience, do you feel like it was more or less challenging to write? 

I chose to write something personal because I thought that would make the process of writing a script easier for me. This was the first time I ever wrote fiction. I didn’t know the basics. I never had taken classes or read books about screenplay writing, so I figured that writing a fictionalized version of my life would make the learning curve less steep. 

I was totally wrong. It took me several years to write six episodes with my group of writers. Even though a lot of it is based on personal experience, I still had to write characters that were fully realized people, create a story arc that can sustain six episodes, and create stakes and build to a climax and resolution. I would name all of the people who helped out, who looked at a draft, offered suggestions, but that was like 10 people. It took an entire crew to make this show.

But the one experience that helped make things easier is my background in audio documentaries. I considered how I could use sounds and music in every scene, every transition, every line of dialogue so things didn’t feel so expository.

I wanted to write a story that was best told through audio.

How did the story of Moonface first come to you? 

Thank you Jed Kim [a former colleague]. The thought of making a fiction show never occured to me until Jed wanted to submit a podcast idea to NPR Story Lab in 2015. We were working together at a public radio station at the time and he wanted to do a detective story. I told him if we’re gonna make a fiction show and pitch it to NPR, it has to be grounded in some sort of truth or news. 

One of the first pieces I did in radio was a story about first language attrition and the language barrier I have with my parents. I thought since the subject matter revolves around language that it’s the perfect story to tell in the audio fiction space. We worked together on the pitch and it ended up not getting selected. But my mind kept thinking about it, and eventually I decided to just make it myself. 

How do you feel telling the story of Moonface through a podcast enhances the story versus telling it through a medium like film?  

Whenever I’m listening to a podcast compared to watching a TV show or film, I’ve noticed I pay more attention to every detail, every word, every sound, even the story as a whole. Intimate moments feel more raw, dramatic moments feel more gut-wrenching, every emotion just feels more intensified. I mean, you’re literally right in the ear drums of a listener when they’re listening on their headphones. 

So I wanted to play that up and make this show something where people would stop what they were doing, turn the volume all the way up, and pay attention to the sound. We wrote scenes where there’s more silence than there is dialogue. We wanted people to feel uncomfortable in the silence, to feel the way the characters feel in the moment. But we also wanted to use sounds to make the listener feel like they’re in the bar hanging out with the characters, or in the bedroom as the two main characters are having sex.

We boosted up sounds like a bed creaking, sheets being shuffled around to really make the listener feel like they were on the bed during the sex scenes. Our sound designer Artin Aroutounians and composer Andrew Eapen worked a ton of endless nights to just get these moments right. Podcasts just allow you to create a more immersive experience than any other medium. 

What do you want listeners to take from Moonface? 

I just want listeners to feel something. Whether it’s emotional, or joy, or even being disappointed that the show could have been better. If it’s something they connect with then that’s awesome. But if it’s something they think they could have done a better job, I really hope it inspires them to make a fiction show. I’m being serious. I want more people to be making fiction shows, to be telling their stories, sharing their perspectives on life, and hopefully creating something that makes people feel less alone in their struggles, and pain, and happiness. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d2_1Gcf5ehQ&feature=youtu.be

Episodes can be found on Apple, Stitcher, Acast, Spotify or wherever you subscribe to podcasts.

The post Podcaster James Kim chats about new fiction coming-of-age and coming out series appeared first on Backstage Socal.

True-crime podcast listeners will indulge in Crime Beat for its gripping storytelling, mysterious nature and investigative twists and turns. Orange County crime junkies will enjoy it for all of that, plus its local angles that make the stories hit closer to home. 

The Crime Beat podcast digs into captivating crime stories with raw interviews with criminal masterminds, crime victims and active detectives. Its first season “Stealing Nixon’s Millions” recounts the steps of the 1972 south OC bank heist — U.S. history’s largest bank heist to be exact — with intimate interviews and commentary from the thieves themselves. Creator and narrator Keith Sharon, an award-winning Southern California News Group reporter, also co-wrote the 2019 screenplay “Finding Steve McQueen,” which was based on the heist.   

Currently in its second season titled “Mom vs. Murderer,” the series explores the 1994 murder of Cal State Fullerton honor student Cathy Torrez. Keith takes his listeners behind the scenes of the investigation with old interviews and new story lines that have yet to be published.

With the mission to explore a different crime every season, Keith shares his inspiration and what he hopes to achieve through this medium.

What elements of a crime story do you look for when deciding whether or not to pursue a podcast discussion? 

I’m always looking for a great ending, so the answer, for me is easy: I’m looking for a resolution. I don’t enjoy the podcasts in which the last episode ends with: “We’ll never know what happened …” I want the hero to ride off into the sunset, satisfied.

What was the initial inspiration of creating the Crime Beat podcast? 

I’m a fan of “Serial,” “S-Town,” “In the Dark” and “Accused,” so I wanted to do what they had done — create a compelling crime story that kept audiences coming back week after week.

What challenges did you experience in creating the first season of Crime Beat? 

At first, I thought it would be really cool to record my interviews in a bar. There would be ambience … and that was the stupidest decision I could possibly make. Background noise is horrible in interview situations. I learned that quickly.

What is the process of creating a chapter-based podcast?

There are three distinct phases: gathering sound, writing and recording narration. Each of these parts has to be equally good, or the podcast falls apart. The interviews have to be compelling. The writing has to be dynamic. And the voice has to be someone you want to spend time with.

When it comes to storytelling, how does the podcasting medium feel different from reporting/writing? 

As you prepare the script, you have to remember that you’re a storyteller. You’re talking to someone who is in their car or on the treadmill. It’s more a direct voice than writing for a publication.

Why do you think people are so compelled to listen to crime stories? 

I think people like to try to figure out what’s happening as they hear the details. It’s almost participatory.

Do you have any “podcast heroes” or particular hosts that you listen to that have influenced Crime Beat? 

I thank them at the end of every episode. Amy Wilson and Amber Hunt on Accused, Sarah Koenig on Serial, Brian Reed on S-Town, Chris Goffard on Dirty John, Madeleine Baran on In the Dark, Nate DiMeo on The Memory Palace and Phoebe Judge on Criminal.

What do you hope to achieve with this podcast? 

Crime Beat Season 2: Mom Vs. Murderer is the story of Cathy Torrez, a Cal State Fullerton student who was found stabbed to death in the trunk of her own car. I want to show the extraordinary lengths her mother (Mary Bennett) went to in her attempt to get justice.

Anything else you would like to add?

Sometimes, criminals get what’s coming to them. And grieving moms can become heroic.

Episodes can be found on Apple, Stitcher, Acast, Spotify or wherever you subscribe to podcasts.

The post Crime Beat podcast digs into OC’s most compelling & mysterious appeared first on Backstage Socal.

Joseph James DeAngelo Jr., highly publicized as the Golden State Killer, is alleged to have murdered 13 people in California during the 70s and 80s. He also raped 50 women. Despite this, he’ll only stand trial for the murders.

Paige St. John, a Pulitzer Prize winning investigative reporter, takes her listeners on an investigative journey that reveals the devastation this deadly serial killer left behind in the Wondery and L.A. Times podcast “Man in the Window.” The series gives a more in-depth look as to who he is, the police work and the stories of his victims, including an exclusive interview with his ex-fiancee.

But what separates this crime podcast from others is it not only opens up conversation about serious and untouched topics outside of the usual murder stories, but it also amplifies the voices of his female victims who have been shushed for decades. St. John shares her inspiration to bring these stories to the podcast medium. 

What elements of a crime story do you look for when deciding whether or not to pursue a podcast discussion? 

I don’t specialize in crime stories — I seek out complicated and compelling subjects that merit and can sustain a deep investigation. In this case, that started as an effort to understand the motivations behind the man accused of one of the most brutal crime series in American history, with a stunning 106 victims of rape, torture or murder. But it quickly jumped into the podcast-sphere when I realized there is a larger story to be told, of a silent generation of women. 

The East Area Rapist was only one of many serial rapists who ran amok in the 1970s and 1980s. The experiences of his half-hundred victims capture the larger societal issues of rape at a time when feminism was still dawning. What better way to give a voice to these women, and at what better time than now as we grapple with recurring revelations of past sexual assault?

What was the initial inspiration of creating the ‘Man In the Window’ series podcast?

I first wrote a four-part print narrative for the Los Angeles Times, and then set out with the podcast to tell a complementary story that amplifies the voices of the female victims. I want listeners to know these women, like them and empathize with them, and rejoice in their strength and determination. The inspiration for the project stems from their willingness to share their most private feelings to anyone in the world willing to listen.

Was it your intention to open up and shed light on larger topics beyond the story of the Golden State Killer? Such as the “language of rape?”

Absolutely! From the start, I did not want to create a “true crime” story that served only to entertain and shock with horror and violence. To merit so much intrusion into the lives of these victims, the project required a higher purpose. I wish I could have done more, like brought in the voices of Phyllis Schlafly and Bella Abzug, to remind listeners of the rhetoric of the times. 

It was easy to see how national discord and debate over equal rights shaped the reaction to a serial rapist, even was echoed by local detectives who criticized rape crisis counselors as being ‘anti-male.’ It was jolting to be reminded of the shroud that surrounded rape in the 1970s, the lesser standing it had as a crime, the underlying implications that victims somehow invited their attack, and the scarcity of tools law enforcement had to solve these crimes. 

What challenges did you experience in creating the first season? 

The popularity of true crime podcasts presented its own major hurdle. The standard form pits a heroic detective against a force of evil, with predictable results. On top of that, the “Golden State Killer” has been heavily marketed. The challenge was to break that mold, and tell people a story they actually didn’t know, from perspectives often left shallow and one-dimensional. It was an immense relief when I started reading listener comments and saw that they got it, that this is a crime story, but also so much more, and they were not turned off by that.

When it comes to storytelling, how does the podcasting medium feel different from reporting/writing?

There’s an intensity to an extended multi-part narrative podcast that far exceeds anything I’ve done in four decades of writing for print. Voices bring such nuance, color and immediacy to the story. And the way people listen to podcasts — that they literally plug themselves into the story — creates such an intimate space. Done well, done right, it’s as if the listener and the characters exist in their own private room in the mind.  

Why do you think people are so compelled to listen to crime stories? 

I ask that of almost everyone I meet. My Uber drivers. Waiters and bartenders. The podcast-addicted editors I meet at other papers. It is a puzzle to me. Some people, usually women, say that listening to crime stories lets them work through their fears. Others enjoy the tingle of fear, and those people are sure to share with me their most terrifying moment of Man in the Window. My own interest, when I read or listen to crime, is to try to understand the human psyche. How is this possible? Who are we that we can do such things?

Do you have any “podcast heroes” or particular hosts that you listen to that have influenced the Man in the Window series? 

I transitioned from listening to audio books to podcasts, so generally sought out for more “writerly” subjects. But when I launched into Man in the Window, I polled the newsroom and came away with two top recommendations: “In the Dark” and “Crimetown: Providence.” I studied both podcasts intently, for the handling of complicated stories with multiple characters and, in Crimetown especially, the use of archival materials to bring the past to life. Providence remains my all-time favorite. The hosts don’t step on the show, or the larger-than-life personalities that they bring to life. It’s an enjoyable ride.

What do you hope to achieve with this podcast? 

Most of my investigative work seeks to right some wrong. This project is very different. My biggest hope is that it begets conversations, and understanding. That women who were raped, and stayed silent, feel safe enough to talk about it, even decades later — and if they suffer trauma, to seek help.

Anything else you would like readers to know?

It could be four years or more before Joseph DeAngelo goes to trial, if he ever does, and that leaves most of the victims of the East Area Rapist/Ransacker and families of those killed by the Original Night Stalker in limbo. I expect there may be occasional updates, even as I move on to other projects. But additional episodes are also likely as new facets of this story can be told. We are working right now on an Episode Eight, to explore why the criminal case is not moving, and to hear for the first time from some of the most silent of all the victims, the men. The things they have to say are quite amazing, and deeply disturbing. It forces us to complicate our understanding of these rapes, with evidence that both women –and men– were being stalked.   

The post New podcast amplifies voice of Golden State Killer’s victims appeared first on Backstage Socal.

What is the true meaning of life? Actor, comedian and writer Justin Long ventures into the minds of celebrities to learn how they spend their time on earth in his new podcast “Life Is Short.” 

Through engaging, thoughtful conversations with everyone from actors to musicians to deep thinkers, Justin chats about the experiences that have led them to find meaning in their own lives. Accompanied by his brother, actor and producer Christian Long, the brotherly banter and fun discussions give the Wondery podcast a lighthearted and comedic tone.

As a longtime actor, Justin– recognized for his movie roles such as “Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story,” “Waiting,” and “Galaxy Quest” — said he’s used to getting inside the heads of the characters he plays, so the interview format comes natural to him. Guests so far have included actor/producer Neil Patrick Harris, actress Anna Chlumsky, actress/director Olivia Wilde, actor Kevin Bacon and comedian Neal Brennan.

Justin chatted with us about favorite moments and guests, what it’s like to work side-by-side with his brother, the joys and challenges of running a podcast (including having to venture into the world of Instagram…) and more.

What was the initial inspiration of creating the “Life Is Short” podcast? 

I think it was turning 40 – which brought with it, as is common, a heightened awareness of how much and how quickly time is passing. It really snuck up on me and I started rethinking how I was using my remaining time and, more importantly, curious how others were using theirs. I also just really like talking to people and learning about them. So it was a combination of a midlife crisis and being super nosy (laughs). 

Who are your podcast heroes? What qualities do they have that have inspired you in your own podcast?  

I really love listening to Dax Shepherd’s podcast. He is incredibly bright and curious and has enough knowledge about most subjects that make his contributions really valuable and elevate the conversation. The first podcast I ever did was Anna Faris’s “Unqualified” which I also loved – Anna had a very easy, laid-back approach to her interviews that made me feel like a very engaged fly on the wall. Both Anna and Dax are very empathetic people which, I think, is the most important attribute for the podcasters I enjoy listening to. 

You’ve had a pretty diverse group of people on — Fran Drescher, Kevin Bacon, Wolfgang Puck, etc. — who has been the most:

Fun? Fran was fun because she’s so unpredictable and opinionated and… fun. But Cobie Smulders and Olivia Wilde and Sam Rockwell are all people whose company I so enjoy in life, so hanging out with them in front of a microphone was equally fun. 

Fascinating? Wolfgang Puck has a fascinating upbringing which I was almost completely unaware of. Jeremy Renner’s view of life and death fascinated me. I’m honestly fascinated by some part of every guest we’ve had so far. 

Thought-provoking?  I hope this isn’t a cop-out but I’ve also found every guest we’ve had to be thought-provoking to some degree but the interview with Roger McNamee (author of the book “Zucked”) was one I still think about – he opened my eyes to so many hidden dangers of social media. Jesse Eisenberg has such an open and empathetic worldview that he has made me reevaluate my own behavior towards people through a more understanding and forgiving lens. 

Has anyone made you nervous or anxious to talk to? 

Most of the guests I’m, at least, slightly nervous to talk to. But obviously the ones I didn’t know have been the most nerve-wracking. Wolfgang Puck, despite never having met him, really put me at ease – he was so disarmingly down to earth and sweet. Neil Patrick Harris is an old friend of mine but Neil is, himself, such a great host and deft conversationalist that I felt pretty nervous in the beginning of that one. Ditto for Lena Dunham. And in both cases they’re people I really admire. They were also two of our very first few episodes. 

What challenges have you faced so far venturing into the podcast industry?

I was saying “yeah” too much. Somebody pointed it out and as much as I wanted to disagree with it, I couldn’t. I’ve also had to curb an annoying instinct to talk over people if I get excited by something that springs into my head. I also had to start an Instagram account – which went from being a challenge to something I’ve begun to enjoy. 

What has been your most special moment since launching so far? 

I think the most special moments have been hearing and reading peoples positive feedback about the show. It’s something I’m so much more personally invested in than a movie or TV show I do. It’s really just me and my brother talking, so any positive reinforcement about that I take very personally. It’s also been really special getting to do it with my brother. 

I love that you have your brother by your side to “hold you accountable” the way siblings do and reveal a different side of you to your listeners. What does that mean to you to work with Christian?

We’ve been creative partners for a long time and have had many scripts never see the light of day, so it’s nice and deeply rewarding to see a creative endeavor of our’s come to fruition. It’s incredibly gratifying. He also brings out the best in me — I’m my funniest and most engaged when I’m interacting with him. I think we challenge each other really effectively and push each other to be as funny as we can be. And as much as we share a very similar comedic sensibility, we are different people and his criticism and commentary I find more valuable than anyone else’s. I suppose I respect him more than anyone else. 

What do you hope to achieve with this podcast?  

I didn’t have these ambitions going in but it would be really nice to just be a positive, fun, interesting, whatever presence in people’s lives. Selfishly, I’d always just hoped it would be fun, which it definitely has been such a fun creative outlet. But now the thought of having a positive impact on someone’s day, on someone’s life, is something I hadn’t considered but feels insanely gratifying. 

Discuss this interview with Backstage SoCal publisher Jackie Moe via Twitter at @jackieemoe

The post Actor Justin Long chats ‘Life is Short,’ new celeb-filled podcast appeared first on Backstage Socal.

When you aren’t commuting to work, planning out your next work presentation, picking up your kids’ carpool, studying for a test — or whatever it is that takes up your day-to-day — do you indulge in a unique or bizarre hobby? Lesley Arfin, the perpetually chill creator of the hit Netflix series “Love,” created the feel-good podcast about finding pure, simple joy in random, unusual or just plain fun hobbies. 

The Filling the Void podcast features celebrity guests, such as actress Natasha Leggero (host of MTV’s “The 70s House”) and actress/TV writer Kerri Kenney (“Reno 911!), discussing the things that make them happy. The brand new podcast has streamed from the LA-based network Earios since June 30. We chatted a bit with Lesley about her favorite moments so far. 

What was the inspiration behind creating a podcast on discovering hidden hobbies?

I was f**king off a lot, doing things I like to do instead of actual work to make money. So I thought, ‘Oh I wonder if other people have this problem?’ And then people kept telling me to do a podcast and I was like nah, I’d only do it if it was actually fun, like a hobby. And somehow this math all added up to FTV.

Who has been your most memorable interview so far and why? 

Probably Kate Berlant because it was the first one.

What has been the most shocking/fascinating hobby you have discovered in your podcast chats? 

Diablo Cody’s roller coaster hobby was CRAZY! 

I heard you tell Diablo Cody that your podcast is a hobby. What are your other hobbies? 

Handyman/woman type stuff, painting, ballet, cards, and online shopping. 

What helps you balance writing, podcasting and other career/life ventures?

Being a mom. But I wouldn’t say it’s balanced. I’m constantly trying to balance my schedule and failing. 

Do you feel podcasting came natural to you? And has it enhanced your creative process?

Yes and I don’t know. Probably? I’ve only done it like 4 times though. 

Who are your podcast heroes? What qualities do they have that have inspired you in your own podcast?

I rarely listen to podcasts and when I do it’s 100 percent about the subject matter — usually murder. 

What do you hope to achieve with this podcast?  

Just to have fun and find out some cool stuff about people I hadn’t expected to find. I’m interested in people in general and what they do when they’re off the clock. 

The post Comedy writer Lesley Arfin is ‘Filling the Void’ with new podcast appeared first on Backstage Socal.

Media queen Margaret Cho has returned to the podcast platform after a six year hiatus and she’s inviting all of her famous (and some not-so-famous) friends to join her for fun and intimate conversations. 

“The Margaret Cho” launched July 17 and has already released episodes with “Queer Eye” host Jonathan Van Ness, tattoo and makeup artist superstar Kat Von D, actress Katie Malia and TV host and comedian Michael Yo. Presented by new female-led podcast network Earios, in partnership with Acast, episodes drop every Tuesday — with 36 episodes per season.  

The Grammy and Emmy Award-nominated actress, comedian, author and LGBT activist said there are no topics she will shy away from in her conversations, but her main goal is to just have fun. Cho chatted with us about her newest venture into the podcast world. 

How do you feel your podcast is unique from other interview format podcasts? 

Well, I really love when you get through to somebody from a different context. Like when I was younger, I would listen to my mom having lunch with her friends and I would like, crawl under the table and listen to their conversations. And all these moms were talking to each other and they were not moms in their conversation. They were talking about different things and their lives. I just think it’s really great to listen in on somebody who’s talking that’s not the part of them that you necessarily know publicly. It’s a kind of intimacy that I feel I can get with people. A lot of the guests that I have on are really good friends of mine. So I like to try to get to a different side of a personality if I can — that’s my goal. 

What inspired you to launch “The Margaret Cho”? 

Well, I’ve done a podcast in the past, in 2012 and 2013, and I really enjoyed it. It was a different time for podcasting, so it was a very different experience, but I always really enjoyed it and I wanted to get back to it. It’s a good way to supplement some of the other things that I do with comedy and producing and writing and putting together other things. And I listen to podcasts a lot. So it just seemed like the rational thing to kind of get into because I’ve had experience there and it’s a medium that I really avidly use as a consumer. 

Do you have any podcasts heroes that you look up to? 

I really love “My Favorite Murder.” Karen Kiilgariff is a friend of mine from the 1980s, you know, from childhood. So we have known each other for many, many years. And so it really is like listening to your friend talking on the phone. Like it’s like a very familiar thing. And I really love true crime, which is an interest that I’ve had all through my life. And somehow it’s kind of caught up with society, like “Armchair Sleuths,” and it gets very interesting how we can examine society through crime and how women are disproportionately suffering from crimes, especially from their partners or from abuse. And there’s so many things that you realize looking at crime statistics, crime stories and how the stories really tell a story about society. There’s another one that’s similar to my favorite record, which is “RedHanded,” a British podcast, which is also two women talking and it’s just really interesting, it’s a really good one. So those are my favorites you should check out if you haven’t. 

Where do you generally record? 

It actually really depends on (where I am). Sometimes I’ll be recording in New York and I’ll work in a studio there. But I’m the most comfortable recording from home. I think that’s my ideal, so I’ll probably do more from my house. 

What challenges have you faced so far? 

I think it’s just scheduling everybody, you know? Everybody that I want to talk to is really busy. Especially somebody like Kat (Kat Von D) or Jonathan Van Ness, who is our first guest. They’re always on the go. Kat just had a baby and they’re like getting their house ready, and then they’re like doing all of this press stuff, because she’s releasing a new shoe line. And then Jonathan is on the comedy tour and also filming “Queer Eye” and of course “Game of Thrones” just ended. So there was like so much activity on both of their parts; so it was hard to figure out when we could do it. So actually sitting and talking, that time is precious and I think that’s sort of reflected in the show. We make a lot of sacrifices so we actually can get together and talk. So it’s a nice thing that we can use it in the podcast. 

Since you’re being recorded for a large audience, does it feel like someone else is in the room with you when you are having these one-on-one casual conversations?

There’s certainly something to that, but also as a comedian that’s something we’re always kind of really conscious of. Especially nowadays with the way that we talk about comedy and we talk about jokes, you kind of have to be very careful or really sensor what you’re doing or saying. I feel like that’s sort of naturally there in comedy. Just kind of thinking about what is being said and what that would reflect on, and the impact of that; it’s just something that you’re conscious of I think. 

What do you hope to achieve with your podcast? 

I think that I just want to have something that I would like to listen to, you know? That I would really be interested in. It’s sort of like paying it back for all of the times that I have really been entertained by podcasts. Just to be able to throw my own hat into the ring with my own perspective; I think it’s really fun. So that’s kind of my goal. I want to participate in this world and make something that you can listen to for several hours a day. 

Do you ever listen to your own podcasts? 

Yeah and it’s funny because it’s like, I’ll be listening and then hear something and be like, “Oh god, I forgot that.” Like I really do forget! And then I have a lot of them from the first podcast I did that I really, really like but I completely forgot about. There’s so many things that I remember later after listening to it. So it’s really fun. 

I cringe when I have to hear my voice on recording, so I’m always curious if podcasters listen to their episodes and if they feel the same way.

Oh, I know, I hate my voice. It’s so annoying and embarrassing, but then you’ve got to get over it because you’re putting it out. So yeah I know exactly that feeling. I hate, hate, hate it. But it’s like you sort of have to get over it, because no matter what, you have to listen to make sure it’s right. You know? But yeah, it sucks. (laughs)

What has been your most memorable moments so far? 

I think it’s just like being able to just witness the rise of Jonathan’s career and being a part of it, and helping him along the way. You know, he’s really special and that for me has been really fulfilling. So I think that’s really remarkable. We just really got started. So we have lots of episodes still that need to be recorded that are coming in. Lots of guests that I’m really excited about. So I’m really, really thrilled about that.

Any future guests in particular that you’d like to share? 

Yes! I’m excited, we’ll be doing Quentin Tarantino and Diablo Cody, and Amy Landecker from “Transparent” who I love. And so there’s so many different people coming on that I’m really thrilled about that. So diverse. Oh, and Trixie Mattel, which is great. I love Trixie. It’s just all really exciting. I love it. 

Episodes can be found on Apple, Stitcher, Acast, Spotify or wherever you subscribe to podcasts. Listen here to a trailer of the show.

The post Margaret Cho chats about new celeb-filled podcast appeared first on Backstage Socal.

Hopeless romantics, you may want to listen up: for all of those nights of wondering if you will ever find “the one” or if “happily ever after” is real, a new podcast is hopelessly devoted to telling true love stories that are sure to give you butterflies. 

Actress Ingrid Haas (Chelsea Lately, Key and Peele) is the host of “The Moment,” a podcast produced by Wondery which premiered on July 1 and drops every Wednesday. Ingrid, who just recently got engaged herself, explores the love stories from real couples to learn what went wrong, what went right, surprise engagements and tense wedding ceremonies. 

Ingrid chatted with us about her new venture into the smooth and rough waters of epic romance. 

What was the inspiration behind creating The Moment podcast?

I was inspired to talk about love after I got engaged. Mostly because I have so many questions about how love works. Especially now that I’m engaged. Mostly how marriage works for different people. A naive part of me always thought it all gets figured out after you find your person, but my experience was that I had more questions than ever! The producers who I work with, Leah Sutherland and Stephanie Jenz, find these incredible stories about love and relationships and at our core, I think we are a bunch of hopeless romantics over at Wondery. We all know people with wild, unbelievable stories about love and relationships and we hadn’t heard anything like this. So we made it!

What are some of the highlights of this first season?

Each episode is so unique and exciting and really focuses on a different couple’s story. We have an episode with Taylor Swift, another one about how a couple froze their embryos before they even had sex! I love the finances episode with Naomi and Andy because they are comedians and very fun to listen to, but also because money is still rarely talked about and we talk about it!

Who do you feel this podcast subject will appeal to the most?

Anyone who believes in the power of love. And my hope is that it’s appealing to people who’ve become a little cynical about love.

What has been your favorite part of podcasting?

I come from a writing and comedy background, so my favorite part is riffing in the studio with the producers. We have a lot of fun making each other laugh and I especially love getting the opportunity to rework jokes or fine tune stuff.

What challenges have you faced in creating the first season?

I would guess finding the couples who we interview. But overall, Wondery is a fantastic network and I am so lucky to be part of the family.

What is it about love and romance do you feel people are more willing to do a “grand gesture”?

I’m not a relationship expert by any stretch, but as someone who’s done some wild grand gestures in my life, I think falling in love with someone makes us feel so good. I always wanted to find a way to show love can make us go blind, crazy and everything in between.

What do you hope listeners will get from “The Moment?”

That love is out there. For everyone. It’s worth the wait and I think even moreso, worth the work.

Anything else you would like to readers to know?

We love our listeners and I read all your comments and feedback and read each of your emails. It’s genuinely so nice to hear that we are giving people hope to find their match and brightening people’s day. Being a part of something that brings light into the world has been such a gift for me.

For more info, visit: https://wondery.com/shows/the-moment/

The post Actress Ingrid Haas explores true love and heartache in new podcast appeared first on Backstage Socal.

Just when you thought every subject and format has been covered in the podcast sphere, “Sex For Money” makes its way into the orbit. Hosted by actress Aasha Davis (Drunk History, Friday Night Lights), a game show format is used to what she describes as “demystifying” the topic of sex.

So how does this work? We just had to know. Before listeners can start streaming the show on the podcast network Earios on Aug. 7, we chatted with Aasha to learn more about the newest game show made specifically for your listening pleasure. 

How did you come up with the idea of creating a game show podcast with a sex theme? 

I became excited about the idea of an informational podcast with the energy of a game show when I started listening to sex podcasts and found myself losing interest halfway through. The subject matter was fascinating to me but I still found myself constantly checking to see how much time was left until it was over.  I wanted to find a way to learn about human sexuality without it feeling like a lecture and since I’m competitive and love bonding with my friends over poker nights I figured why not combine the two loves. 

What are some examples of the games that are played? 

All our episodes revolve around a theme for example we did a show called  “Sex Through The Ages” and invited two contestants from different generations to play games about everything from Ancient Historical sex practices to the current sex practices of Baby Boomers. 

We always start with “Foreplay” because it’s crucial for us to get to know our guests, their thoughts on our theme and, let’s face it, have a good time. So we engage about topics like how our contestants first learned about the “birds and the bees” or whether they think men should always pay for the first date. 

Once we’re warmed up, we ask our contestants True or False and Multiple Choice questions based on our theme, which sparks fun conversation throughout. We’ll also throw in silly games like, “What Sound Is This?” where the contestants have to guess whether it’s a porn sound or a farm sound. Then we always end with the “Post coital cool down” to absorb what kinds of new things our guests learned throughout the game. 

Just like a good date the experience holds your attention and leaves you looking forward to the next encounter. 

What has been your most memorable moment working with the podcast so far? 

That’s a tough one! Every episode I literally laugh until my cheeks hurt! Thus far, if I HAD to pick just ONE it would be the laughs we had while playing “What Am I Touching?” a tactile game where we blindfold our contestants and have them describe and guess what they are holding to the listeners. Is it a sex object or a regular household item? Maybe it’s both!

How is the transition from acting to podcasting going for you? 

It’s been great! I consider myself a people person, so I started out my career wanting to be a host, and connect with people one-on-one. To ready myself I took improv classes, and to support myself I started doing commercials which eventually led me to acting in film and TV. So as a result returning to this type of spontaneous interaction feels a lot like home. 

Your podcast description states the game show is to “demystify the sexual experience.” How is this accomplished through the podcast? 

When you’re playing these types of games it sparks conversation. It’s easier to say “Oh that reminds me of the time…” or “I read an article about this and it made me feel…”  It opens that heavy door that has obstructed our society’s ability to freely talking about sex. 

What kind of guests do you have on the show? 

It’s a panorama! We’ve had everyone from well-known personalities like Lauren Sivan to my 24-year-old cousin, Sierra McKie. My hope is that the experience feels like a really fun game night with the most interesting people you know. So we pick our guests based on how comfortable they are with the subject matter, how entertaining they are in a competitive atmosphere, and how badly they need or want a hundred bucks.  

What audience are you looking to appeal to the most? 

Anyone over 18. 

Do you have a funny, shocking or fascinating story in regards to the production of the podcast that you would like to share?

I own a (very professional) bag filled with sexy swag that I like to gift to our guests so that no one walks away empty-handed. At our last taping, I was walking from my car to our studio when I heard something make contact with the ground. When I turned around, I was blushy to find a breadcrumb like trail of ribbed and banana flavored condoms. My producer assured me that it probably wasn’t the first time such a scene unfolded in our Hollywood neighborhood.

What do you hope to achieve with this podcast?

Similar to the perfect orgasm, my hope is that this podcast experience releases our listeners load in an enjoyable way and leads them to bragging about it to all their friends.

Listen, learn and laugh to Sex For Money wherever you listen to podcasts. Get behind-the-scenes insights at sex_for_money_gameshow on Instagram.

The post Actress Aasha Davis chats about new sex-themed game show podcast appeared first on Backstage Socal.