Hollywood & Levine

This week Ken & lead Fox play-by-play man, Joe Buck discuss calling NFL football, the Super Bowl, World Series, and dealing with Social Media, which is not for the faint of heart. It’s a fun, informative, and candid conversation. You don’t have to be a sports fan to enjoy Joe Buck.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.

Joe Buck is the voice of sports for Fox. He’s won 7 Emmys calling numerous Super Bowls, World Series, the U.S. Open, and All-Star Games. He’s also an upcoming guest host on JEOPARDY. This week we discuss hosting JEOPARDY, his Hall-of-Fame father, sportscaster Jack Buck, breaking into the business, and calling baseball.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 early ‘70s gave us amazing comedy shows — ALL IN THE FAMILY, MASH, THE MARY TYLER MOORE SHOW, THE BOB NEWHART SHOW, THE CAROL BURNET SHOW… and one year they were all on the same night on the same network. They were all very different shows but had one key thing in common. It’s that common denominator that is missing today. What is it and why is it important? Ken fills you in.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 author, Mark Harris who wrote the book MIKE NICHOLS: A LIFE. In this episode we delve into Nichols’ directing career — his approach, process, hits and misses, theatre and films, and how Jackie Kennedy helped get one of his movies released.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.

Ken talks with Mark Harris, author of the best-seller, “Mike Nichols: A Life” — a fascinating look into this complex giant of the entertainment industry. This week: His early life, influences, and relationship with Elaine May, which spawned the hugely successful comedy team, Nichols & May.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 we discuss the changes that occurred during the run of CHEERS, the series finale and disastrous live cast appearance on THE TONIGHT SHOW, and life after 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.

George Wendt discusses his early days at Second City, and what it was like to be on CHEERS. And we discuss the beer.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 ESPN/NBC/Chicago White Sox announcer, Jason Benetti. Topics this week include working with partners (like Bill Walton), social media criticism, and not letting Cerebral Palsy prevent you from achieving your dreams.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.

Jason Benetti is a rising sportscasting star. He calls baseball, football, and basketball for ESPN, is the TV voice of the Chicago White Sox, and will be calling Olympic baseball this summer for NBC. But more than that, he announced Korean League Baseball last summer on ESPN — from his apartment… during a riot. He and Ken swap crazy 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.

Ken riffs from topic to topic; everything from Jean Smart’s new show “Hacks,” to Toronto, Kurtwood Smith, Gal Gadot, a power failure, making Claire Danes laugh, advice from Red Barber, and getting smacked by Wayne Newton.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 SIMPSONS writer Mike Reiss including how he auditioned to star in THE OFFICE and as a tourist was chased down the street by a woman with a meat cleaver.Get Honey for FREE at 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.

Mike Reiss has written for THE SIMPSONS for 30 years. Also numerous other shows including THE TONIGHT SHOW and THE GARRY SHANDLING SHOW. What was Garry like? What was Johnny like? These stories and more including Mike discovering Conan O’Brien. Part one of two.Try EveryPlate for just $1.99 per meal plus an additional 20% off your next 2 boxes by going to EveryPlate.com & entering code: hollywood199Listen 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.

Every writer has a different process. Ken discusses his and many others. How fast to write, when to write, partnership etiquette, how to solve script problems — it’s all here and more. Even if you’re not a writer and have no desire to be one, you will enjoy this study of the creative process.Get Honey for FREE at 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.

“Star Search” winner/Broadway star/recording artist/Carnegie Hall concert singer, Linda Eder has an amazing voice and career. She’s also a very fun guest.Get Honey for FREE at 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.

After Ken’s list of things he hates that others love, listeners weighed in with their selections. Audience participation podcasting!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 are things universally loved in popular culture that Ken just doesn’t get. Everybody has their own list. Ken shares his. 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.

Chip Zien has been in 13 Broadway shows, has over 65 TV and movie credits, and was the voice of Howard the Duck. This week he talks about being HOWARD THE DUCK, acting in LES MISERABLES, UNITED 93, working with Mike Nichols, 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.

Chip Zien has been in 13 Broadway shows, has over 65 TV and movie credits, and was the voice of Howard the Duck. He starred in INTO THE WOODS and discusses working with Stephen Sondheim along with many great showbiz tales. Chip is a great storyteller and has great funny stories to tell.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.

Longtime NBC/Fox scheduler/guru Preston Beckman discusses the current television landscape — all the the changes and where things might be heading. TV is evolving quickly. If you want to break in, you need to know who’s out there, what they’re looking for, and where you fit in. Preston Beckman can help guide you.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.

A personal tour of one of Hollywood’s most iconic studio lots. This episode is filled with stories, history, movie stars — everything but the lion.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.

A spoof on bad podcasts. Annoying elements, no editing, discussions about nothing that go nowhere — they’re all here in this simulated brutal but highly recognizable “podcast.” Cringe and enjoy.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 a listener’s question and lists all the TV shows and pilots he thinks are as close to “perfect” as possible. Get Honey for FREE at JoinHoneycom/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.

Comedy veteran Mike Scully discusses the change that saved Parks & Rec, working on Everybody Loves Raymond, and the animation process used to make the show he co-created with his wife, Julie — Duncanville. Amy Poehler fans, in particular, will love this episode.Find out how Upstart can lower your monthly payments today! https://upstart.com/HOLLYWOOD 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.

Go inside The Simpsons writing room with Mike Scully and hear how the show has evolved over the last 175 years. Mike has also been with other shows including Everybody Loves Raymond and Parks & Rec.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.

Jonathan Wolfert, president/founder of Jam Creative Productions is this week’s guest discussing why today’s music is different from yesterday’s (you decide which is better). Also, the unique business of radio station jingles and how they have ties to both Clayton Kershaw and Elton John. Hear Elton John sing radio jingles.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 listeners’ questions ranging from television, actors, to child actors, comedy, continuity, and cop shows.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 the interview with Emmy-winning writer Jim Vallely. Most of the episode centers on ARRESTED DEVELOPMENT — the making of one TV’s funniest and most revered sitcoms.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.

Jim Vallely is one of the funniest people in Hollywood. He was a big part of The Golden Girls, To and a Half Men, and Arrested Development. This week we focus on his unique career path, tips for writers, and life on The Golden Girls. Next week: Arrested Development.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.

Every writer gets bad reviews. Sometimes really bad reviews. These are Ken’s worst. Listen and feel better about yourself.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 talks to Rob Leszczak, who wrote “The Complete Guide to the TV Sitcom WINGS.” More reminiscing, including a prank I pulled on NBC, and a story about Lana Clarkson & the late Phil Spector. 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 talks to Rob Leszczak, who wrote “The Complete Guide to the TV Sitcom WINGS.” Between Rob’s research and Ken’s personal recollections of working on WINGS, it’s a fascinating insider’s look at a sitcom that deserved way more respect than it received. 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.

A popular feature. Ken does a commentary track on the controversial “Boys in the Bar” episode of CHEERS that he and David Isaacs wrote. Hear about the inspiration, execution, reaction, and behind-the-scenes nuggets. 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 history of your favorite Christmas songs forms part one of this super-size episode. Part two is an interview with Jhani Kaye, who launched the “all-Christmas-music” format on KOST radio in Los Angeles, which now has become a mainstay in every radio market. And a spectacular ratings success. Find out how and why it works, and whether they’ll play the barking dogs singing “Jingle Bells.” 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.

Short plays written for the theatre have had to adapt to Zoom. And now podcasts.  Ken presents two of his favorite ten minute comedies adapted for Zoom. It’s theatre of the mind, or Starmaster, or wherever you listen to podcasts. 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 riffs on all the holiday season and gives an insider look on the making of Thanksgiving and Christmas-themed TV episodes. The tropes and the traps revealed. 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 plays some of the worst (and most amusing) songs you will ever hear. A Thanksgiving tradition.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 takes you through the world of publishing and self-publishing as he discusses the four books he’s written and his adventures in trying to sell them. You can publish your own books and make money! Ken shows you how. 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 celebrates his 200th podcast with a super-sized episode featuring highlights, surprises, rarities, giveaways, laughs, and more. Join in the fun!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.

Katy Garretson is a DGA award nominated sitcom director. This week we talk about actors testing directors, difficult shows, and delve into her podcast, Mojo Girl Madness. Some great stories and Hollywood dish. 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.

Katy Garretson is a DGA award nominated sitcom director. She discusses the craft and unique challenges a woman faces in television directing. She also shares a story about a “lost” episode of FRASIER. It’s a story I didn’t even know. 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.

Two CHEERS writers discuss the actual process and share insights and stories… including firing a Tony-winning actor. It’s a great insiders’ look at how sitcoms really get written. 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.

Rob Long broke into TV writing by getting on staff of CHEERS when he was 24. He and Ken have a freewheeling discussion of television comedy, advice on breaking in, theories, the business, the craziness, the fun. 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.

Charlie Van Dyke has one of the most recognizable voices in America although you might not know the name. From big-time DJ at KHJ, WLS, KFRC, CKLW, WRKO, KRTH, KLIF, and more he transitioned into voice over, and I guarantee he’s the voice of one of your local TV stations and radio stations. It’s a fascinating journey. Meet “Oh, THAT guy,” Charlie Van Dyke. 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.

September 30th marked the 38th anniversary of the debut of CHEERS. Join Ken for the first night party and more inside scuttlebutt on the show that is now iconic but finished last in the ratings the night it premiered. 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 talks with Michael Uslan, the originator and executive producer of the Batman movie franchise. This week we discuss the various Batman reboots, Christopher Nolan’s vision, the upcoming reboot, and why I hate what Zach Snyder has done to Superman. 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 talks with Michael Uslan, the originator and executive producer of the Batman movie franchise. We’ll talk the origin of Batman, his revered place in popular culture, the co-creator who didn’t get credit for 70 years, the TV show, and first Tim Burton Batman movie.  It’s comic-con for the ears!  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.

On this week's Hollywood & Levine, Ken takes you behind-the-scenes with insider stories about the hit sitcom Cheers. If you thought you knew a lot about Cheers, think again! This is a must listen for sitcom fans. 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.

Research plays a major role in what shows get on the air. But how does it work and what are they looking for? Steve Leblang is a media research expert. From dial testing to focus groups to measuring brain waves, Steve walks us through the various ways data is collected. And he talks about how accurate those political polls are.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.

Bill Persky and partner Sam Denoff wrote 29 episodes of “The Dick Van Dyke Show” and eventually became its showrunners. More fascinating stories including a great one involving Orson Welles.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.

Bill Persky and partner Sam Denoff wrote 29 episodes of “The Dick Van Dyke Show” and eventually became its showrunners. Here’s the inside story of how they made one of the greatest shows ever on television.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.