Hollywood & Levine

Ken talks with esteemed TV critic, Maureen Ryan, who has written a sensational book on the inner workings of Hollywood — toxic shows, bias, sexual abuse, etc. And she names names! She also points out some of the good shows, examples of exemplary behavior that also are present in the industry, along with suggestions on how to make things better. The book is called “Burn it Down.”  This week and next you’ll go behind-the-curtain and might be surprised by what you see. Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

SAG/AFTRA has joined the WGA in striking against the giant conglomerates that control the TV and movie industry. Ken provides an update, explains the actors’ and writers’ issues, and why holding out for a fair contract is absolutely crucial.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ken reprises his favorite episode — a mock version of the worst podcast ever. Everything you hate about podcasts all in one spoof. Join Ken and brilliant improviser, Aoife Carty for a half hour of laughing and cringing.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The future of radio, right wing radio, the music industry, and podcasting are all topics discussed with one of the sharpest media minds in the business. And I say something that may get me in trouble with some folks but I don’t care.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ken’s guest is renown media consultant, Dave Beasing. They discuss the future of radio, podcasts, streaming, music, social media and where things might be headed in these turbulent media times.  Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Part two of Ken’s discussion with author, playwright Jeffrey Sweet on his book “Something Wonderful Right Away” about the origin, history, and art of improvisational comedy and the brilliant crazy people who made it all happen.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Playwright, author Jeffrey Sweet has written a terrific book on the origin, history, and art of improvisational comedy called “Something Wonderful Right Away.” He and Ken discuss this fascinating topic and its effect on popular culture. And you’d be surprised how many famous funny people started in improv workshops.  Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Stand-Up comedy is this week’s topic as Ken gives his thoughts on the art form and shares his second ever stand-up performance. And as if there wasn’t enough pressure, he had to follow John Mulaney.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ken answers listener questions on a variety of topics from casting CHEERS, stunt casting, Ken’s philosophy on choosing a career, and the new rules in baseball. A little something for everybody.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

More about the art and craft of stand-up comedy and a look at the current comedy scene.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The art of stand up comedy is discussed with Wendy Liebman who won the 1996 American Comedy Award for Female Comedian of the Year. She has appeared on THE TONIGHT SHOW, LARRY SANDERS, JIMMY KIMMEL, DAVID LETTERMAN, had her own Showtime specials, and was a semi-finalist on AMERICA’S GOT TALENT.  Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One by one, Ken goes over the many issues the WGA is fighting for and why they’re important. He also gives an overview of the situation and how it might play out.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ken wrote a one-act play about a late night host “signing off” that was performed by EST Los Angeles at the Atwater Theatre starring Nick Ullett and Clayton Ferris, directed by Tony Pasquilini. As James Corden exits his late night show, we reprise that play. To be enjoyed anytime of the day.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As the television business continues to change on a daily basis, longtime media exec, Preston Beckman, gives you an overview of just where things currently stand.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Preston Beckman is a longtime media executive who has helped shape what you’ve watched for over 35 years. He’s back to discuss the current state of TV — its evolution, various platforms, and recent developments. Part one of two.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Several movies that Nicholas Meyer directed are spotlighted this week including the incredible story of how STAR TREK II: THE WRATH OF KAHN came together. Oh, and Ken’s film, VOLUNTEERS is also discussed. Great stories from a great guest.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The multi-talented Nicholas Meyer has written such novels as “the 7% Solution” and has directed such great movies as “Time After Time” and for my money, the single best Star Trek movie — “Star Trek 2: The Wrath of Kahn.” And those are just a few of his many credits. Now he can add “fascinating guest.”Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ken describes the hilarious misadventure of his first family cruise on the floating trailer park that is Carnival cruise lines. It’s an amusing and cautionary tale.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The ups and downs of being a working actor in Hollywood. Being in one of the funniest movies ever made and being in an Oscar winner despite Robert Redford wanting her off the picture are just two of the many stories this week with Penny Peyser. And she throws in some sonnets! A fun episode to be sure.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

More with one of the top sitcom directors in television, Pam Fryman. Among the topics this week: dealing with actors and notably stars, dealing with showrunners, and directing live television. And how I pulled a prank on NBC while directing my first episode. Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week and next, Ken talks to one of the premier sitcom directors in television. 34 episodes of FRASIER, 95 episodes of JUST SHOOT ME, and 196 episodes of HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER are just some of her many credits. Learn sitcom directing from one of the masters.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bob Backman is a fascinating guy who lives two lives — a highly respected broadcast executive and a rock n’ roll disc jockey (one of the last). It’s an episode about the value of passion and hustle and how to succeed in any field.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The wild ride that was rewriting JEWEL OF THE NILE starring Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner. It’s a crazy and typical Hollywood story.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ken answers listener questions involving writing, directing, the industry, and more. If you have a question, email it to [email protected] to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Many celebrities stepped into the bar. Here are some of the stories about those appearances. Celebs included Johnny Carson, “Data,” Alex Trebek, Ethel Kennedy, Kevin McHale, an Oscar winner, the Speaker of the House, two presidential candidates, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, a future FRIEND and more.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ken discusses a comedy trope that, if constructed correctly, can result in every sentence getting a laugh. Also included is an example — one of Ken’s ten-minute plays.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ken just riffs about anything. Starting with his thoughts on NIGHT COURT and ending with the Boston Strangler… with stories about TV and radio and whatnot in between. It’s the podcast for people who like variety or have short attention spans.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Writing 101 is back in session. Ken discusses getting feedback — the who, what, and when of it. Valuable tips for making your script/play/novel/shopping list better.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After a recent Eddie Murphy car chase and crash outside his house, Ken decided to devote an episode to location shooting in Los Angeles. It’s one of the perks and curses of living in LA.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

More with session singer, Sally Stevens. Among the topics discussed: touring and writing with Burt Bacharach, thoughts on Karen Carpenter, a great Steven Spielberg story, singing for THE SIMPSONS, twenty years on the Oscars, and singing a duet with Frank Sinatra, which you will hear.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ken’s guest is Sally Stevens, a “session singer” who has sung on hundreds of hit songs, movie soundtracks, TV shows, the Grammys, the Oscars, commercials, and more. What’s it like to work with Sinatra? And get ready for a bizarre Danny Kaye story.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The podcast version of Ken’s popular blog feature, “Friday Questions.” Ken answers questions posed by the listeners. Topics include TV, writing, music concerts, and Neil Simon… along with some opinions on the current state of comedy.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ken’s tribute and loving memories of working with the wonderful, talented, and somewhat kooky Kirstie Alley for six years on CHEERS. Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

More with the writing/husband and wife team of Annie Levine & Jonathon Emerson. This week focuses on topics such as the writers room — in person and on Zoom — the current state of comedy, working for Netflix, the enduring popularity of Golden Girls and much more.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ken chats with Annie Levine & Jonathon Emerson, the Executive Producers of THE UPSHAWS — the hit Netflix comedy starring Wanda Sykes, Mike Epps, and Kim Fields, going into its third season. Lots of topics on the table including how to break into the business and nepotism (Annie is Ken’s daughter). It’s an informative and very fun discussion.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Celebrate the beginning of the holiday season with some of the worst, cringe worthiest, hilarious songs ever unleashed upon the world. Enjoy if you can! Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ken and his longtime writing partner, David Isaacs discuss breaking into the business, the dynamics of a good partnership, and tips for making you a better staff writer.Use code: Ken15 during checkout at https://www.zenviahemp.com to get 15% off your order!Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this special episode Ken reunites with his longtime writing partner, David Isaacs, to discuss the future of comedy.Use code: Ken15 during checkout to get 15% off your order at https://www.zenviahemp.comListen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As an experiment, Ken and his writing partner, David Isaacs once wrote a short one-person play. Writing a 20 minute monologue is quite an exercise. Hear the result and hopefully get some laughs.Use code: Ken15 during checkout at https://www.zenviahemp.com to get 15% off your order!Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ken Levine & David Isaacs once wrote a script that the studio president hated so much he tried to get them booted off the lot. Another delightful feel-good Hollywood story.Get Honey for FREE at https://joinhoney.com/levineListen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From the new FRASIER reboot, to curing the common cold, old movies, and selling a pilot CBS had no intention of making — Ken starts off with one topic and just begins free associating. God knows what else is in this episode. Find out.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ken continues his discussion with author/filmmaker, David Leaf on the amazing life of musical genius, Brian Wilson. Lots of good and bad vibrations. If you heard part one I guarantee you’ll listen to part two.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Brian Wilson, the creative musical genius of the Beach Boys has led a rollercoaster of a life. One of his closest friends, David Leaf, offers a fascinating and candid portrait of this brilliant but troubled musician.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Since the royal family has been front page news these days, Ken discusses his various brushes with royalty and other distinguished world leaders. If there’s a theme it might be irreverence.Get Honey for FREE at https://joinhoney.com/levineListen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

More advice for actors on just what it takes to get that job, and the process of casting several iconic television series. Learn what the business is really like in this fun and informative episode. Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John Levey is an award-winning casting director of such iconic shows as THE WEST WING and ER. With great insight and candor he discusses the state of casting today — what producers are looking for, what actors can do to maximize their chances. If you’re an actor this is the episode you can not miss.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

More on the making of documentary films. Getting music clearances, enlisting celebrities, and other assorted stories and tips from award winning filmmaker, John Scheinfeld.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John Scheinfeld has been producing, writing, and directing documentaries for twenty years. Learn about the fascinating world of documentary films along with some great stories.Get Honey for FREE at https://joinhoney.com/levineListen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week Ken replays his interview with Earl Pomerantz from 2018. Earl was an Emmy winning comedy writer who sadly passed away in 2020. He was insightful, very funny, with a unique voice. With appreciation — here again is Earl Pomerantz.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There have been many tributes to Vin Scully, arguably the greatest sportscaster of all-time, who passed away on August 2nd. Ken was blessed to know him and work with him for many years. In this extended episode, Ken shares his personal stories. It’s a tribute unlike any other.Listen to more podcasts like this: https://wavepodcastnetwork.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.