Classic Conversations: Pop culture Interviews with Jeff Dwoskin

4d ago

Fred Fox Jr. takes us on a nostalgic journey through television's golden decades. From his beginnings as a stagehand to becoming a writer on iconic shows like Happy Days , Laverne & Shirley , Family Matters , and My Secret Identity , Fred shares stories filled with humor, gratitude, and the magic of Hollywood's behind-the-scenes moments. Listeners will enjoy tales of working with legends like Garry Marshall, Henry Winkler, and Cindy Williams, as well as reflections on his father's remarkable legacy writing for Bob Hope and George Burns. This episode captures the timeless spirit of creativity, family, and the enduring power of classic TV storytelling. Episode Highlights Fred's early start in Hollywood and his unexpected connection with Cindy Williams Memories from writing for Laverne & Shirley , Happy Days , and Joanie Loves Chachi Behind-the-scenes stories of TV's golden era and the Garry Marshall world Insights into writing Family Matters and the rise of Urkel Reflections on his father's influence and the timeless craft of comedy writing You're going to love my conversation with Brian Levant and Fred Fox, Jr. 50 Years of Happy Days: A Visual History of an American Television Classic Fred Fox, Jr. IMDB Fred's Instagram More Happy Days? Anson Williams (Potsie) - Episode 110 Marion Ross (Mrs. C) - Episode 114 Don Most (Ralph Malph) - Episode 116 Linda Purl - Episode 343 Jim Meskimen - Episode 145 Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host): Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Subscribe to my Youtube channel Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show Ways to support the show: Buy me a coffee (support the show) Dashery/TeePublic Store: Classic Conversations merch and more! Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop. Thanks for checking out Classic Conversations ! Dive into pop culture nostalgia with comedian Jeff Dwoskin as he hosts the best TV and film interviews. Hear inspiring stories from actors, comedians, musicians, and pop culture icons about the road to success. Part comedy, part drama—always entertaining.

Dec 8

Jeffrey Kramer shares behind-the-scenes stories from Jaws and his remarkable journey from actor to Emmy-winning producer. Discover how one chaotic summer on Martha's Vineyard led to a lifetime of storytelling, creativity, and gratitude. Few careers capture the magic of Hollywood's golden eras quite like Jeffrey Kramer's. From playing Deputy Hendrix in Jaws —a role that became an enduring symbol of 1970s cinema—to producing cultural touchstones like Ally McBeal and The Practice , Jeffrey's story is one of resilience, reinvention, and gratitude. In this heartfelt conversation, he reflects on his time on Martha's Vineyard, shares how Jaws changed his life, and opens up about the moment he decided to move behind the camera to create some of television's most defining dramas. Episode Highlights Making of a Classic: Jeffrey recalls being on set for the first day of Jaws , filming the unforgettable "hand in the sand" scene, and realizing he was part of something truly special. The Spielberg Effect: Memories of a young Steven Spielberg, the chaos of a malfunctioning shark, and the genius behind crafting fear without ever showing the monster. Hollywood Legends & Lifelong Bonds: Reflections on working with Richard Dreyfuss, Roy Scheider, and how friendships from the Jaws set lasted a lifetime. Career Reinvention: Jeffrey's decision to leave acting and transition into producing groundbreaking shows like The X-Files and Ally McBeal . Gratitude & Growth: Lessons from a journey filled with risks, reinventions, and the gratitude that keeps his love for storytelling alive. You're going to love my conversation with Jeffrey Kramer IMDB Tourette Association of America Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host): Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Subscribe to my Youtube channel Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show Ways to support the show: Buy me a coffee (support the show) Dashery/TeePublic Store: Classic Conversations merch and more! Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop. Thanks for checking out Classic Conversations ! Dive into pop culture nostalgia with comedian Jeff Dwoskin as he hosts the best TV and film interviews. Hear inspiring stories from actors, comedians, musicians, and pop culture icons about the road to success. Part comedy, part drama—always entertaining.

Dec 1

From teenage auditions to Hollywood legend status, Matthew Lillard has lived a career that spans cult classics, horror franchises, heartfelt indies, and entrepreneurial success. In this conversation, he reflects on the evolution of his career — from Scream 's unforgettable Stu Macher to becoming the iconic voice of Shaggy in Scooby-Doo . Matthew shares stories of the Comic-Con circuit, his love for connecting with fans, the security he's found later in life, and the creative ventures that keep him inspired — including his high-end whiskey brand and his Dungeons & Dragons-inspired business. He also opens up about his excitement for the upcoming Five Nights at Freddy's 2 , where he returns to a universe that's captured the imaginations of millions. Episode Highlights How Matthew Lillard's early Hollywood hustle shaped a decades-long career Behind-the-scenes stories from Scream and his connection with Wes Craven The heart and humor behind bringing Shaggy to life in Scooby-Doo The fandom and lore of Five Nights at Freddy's — and what fans can expect from the sequel How his entrepreneurial ventures, Find Familiar Spirits and Beadle & Grimm's , connect creativity, community, and storytelling Matthew Lillard's return to Five Nights at Freddy's 2 You're going to love my conversation with Matthew Lillard IMDB Five Nights at Freddy's Instagram Find Familiar Spirits TikTok Beadle & Grimm's Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host): Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Subscribe to my Youtube channel Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show Ways to support the show: Buy me a coffee (support the show) Dashery/TeePublic Store: Classic Conversations merch and more! Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop. Thanks for checking out Classic Conversations ! Dive into pop culture nostalgia with comedian Jeff Dwoskin as he hosts the best TV and film interviews. Hear inspiring stories from actors, comedians, musicians, and pop culture icons about the road to success. Part comedy, part drama—always entertaining.

Nov 24

Former CBS president Gene Jankowski joins Classic Conversations to share vivid memories from the golden age of television. From the early days of network broadcasting to overseeing cultural icons like Dallas , M*A*S*H , and 60 Minutes , Gene reflects on the creative risks, behind-the-scenes decisions, and human connections that defined CBS's rise to dominance in the late '70s and '80s. His nostalgic insights, in his memoir, Behind the Eye: My Life in Media , capture an era when broadcast television shaped culture, united families, and delivered unforgettable moments that still resonate today. Episode Highlights Gene's early path from the Navy and Michigan State to joining CBS in radio sales The career-defining leap into television and rise through CBS leadership The inside story of Dallas ' "Who Shot J.R.?" and how the show kept TV's biggest secret The record-breaking finale of M A S H* and why it remains unmatched in television history The creation of 60 Minutes ' Sunday legacy and its lasting impact Behind-the-scenes memories of Walter Cronkite, Dan Rather, and network news integrity Reflections on Norman Lear's groundbreaking storytelling and the delicate line between culture and controversy Lessons from successes ( The Waltons , Dukes of Hazzard ) and near-misses ( Law & Order ) Gene's leadership philosophy and why he ultimately left CBS You're going to love my conversation with Gene Jankowski Website Buy book: Behind the Eye: My Life in Media Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host): Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Subscribe to my Youtube channel Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show Ways to support the show: Buy me a coffee (support the show) Dashery/TeePublic Store: Classic Conversations merch and more! Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop. Thanks for checking out Classic Conversations ! Dive into pop culture nostalgia with comedian Jeff Dwoskin as he hosts the best TV and film interviews. Hear inspiring stories from actors, comedians, musicians, and pop culture icons about the road to success. Part comedy, part drama—always entertaining.

Nov 17

From Motown melodies to television magic, Telma Hopkins' career has defined generations of entertainment. Raised in Detroit, she began as a young singer at Golden World Studios before joining Motown, lending her voice to hits by Marvin Gaye, The Four Tops, and others who shaped the soundtrack of an era. Her next act came with Tony Orlando and Dawn — catapulting her from backup singer to international fame during the golden age of variety television. Telma went on to charm audiences in sitcom classics like Bosom Buddies , Gimme a Break! , and as the unforgettable Aunt Rachel on Family Matters . Now, she's celebrating that legacy with her iHeartRadio rewatch podcast Welcome to the Family with Telma and Kelly , where she revisits beloved moments and shares behind-the-scenes stories from one of TV's most cherished family shows. 🎧 Highlights Growing up in Detroit's music scene and recording with Motown legends From studio singer to television star: the leap from Tony Orlando and Dawn to primetime fame Candid memories of working with icons like Carol Burnett and Isaac Hayes How Family Matters became a cultural touchstone for Black family storytelling The heart behind Telma's new rewatch podcast Welcome to the Family and her reflections on legacy, laughter, and staying connected through storytelling You're going to love my conversation with Telma Hopkins IMDB Welcome to the Family with Telma and Kelly Instagram Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host): Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Subscribe to my Youtube channel Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show Ways to support the show: Buy me a coffee (support the show) Dashery/TeePublic Store: Classic Conversations merch and more! Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop. Thanks for checking out Classic Conversations ! Dive into pop culture nostalgia with comedian Jeff Dwoskin as he hosts the best TV and film interviews. Hear inspiring stories from actors, comedians, musicians, and pop culture icons about the road to success. Part comedy, part drama—always entertaining.

Nov 10

From soap operas and westerns to cult classics and academia, Dr. Amy Stoch has truly done it all. Beloved for her iconic role as "Missy" in the Bill & Ted films, Amy takes us on a heartfelt and humorous ride through her incredible career, from Star Search to Days of Our Lives , Dallas , and Gunsmoke . Along the way, she shares stories of serendipity, persistence, and the pure joy of performing, proving that her passion for acting and storytelling burns brighter than ever. Episode Highlights How Star Search kickstarted her acting career and led to an unexpected PhD promise to Ed McMahon! Behind-the-scenes memories from Days of Our Lives , including her time as a "Russian spy" and her DIY backstory method. Landing Dallas and the wild story of getting the role while on a cruise in the Aegean Sea! The origins of "Missy" in Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure and the real story behind that nostalgic Circle K visit. Reflections on returning decades later for Bill & Ted Face the Music and what she wishes Missy's next chapter could be. Heartwarming memories from Gunsmoke and sharing the screen with legends like James Arness. Why Dr. Amy believes acting and scholarship are forever intertwined and how she's still "excellent" in everything she does. You're going to love my conversation with Dr. Amy Stoch IMDB Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host): Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Subscribe to my Youtube channel Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show Ways to support the show: Buy me a coffee (support the show) Dashery/TeePublic Store: Classic Conversations merch and more! Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop. Thanks for checking out Classic Conversations ! Dive into pop culture nostalgia with comedian Jeff Dwoskin as he hosts the best TV and film interviews. Hear inspiring stories from actors, comedians, musicians, and pop culture icons about the road to success. Part comedy, part drama—always entertaining.

Nov 3

From child star to accomplished musician, Bill Mumy's journey through Hollywood is a tapestry of talent, longevity, and creativity. In this episode, he reflects on his decades-spanning career — from Lost in Space and The Twilight Zone to producing Ancient Aliens and releasing his latest solo album, Wonderworld . Bill shares personal stories about working with legends like Lucille Ball, Walt Disney, and Cloris Leachman, the making of his memoir, and his enduring passion for music that began at just ten years old. Episode Highlights The making of his memoir Danger, Will Robinson: The Full Mumy and why he wrote it non-linearly How a childhood accident set him on the path to television stardom Inside stories from Lost in Space , The Twilight Zone , and working with entertainment icons Reflections on the craft of acting and the challenge of being typecast His ongoing creative life — producing Ancient Aliens and releasing Wonderworld You're going to love my conversation with Bill Mumy Danger, Will Robinson: The Full Mumy — available wherever books are sold Wonderworld — streaming now on all major platforms IMDB Website Instagram Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host): Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Subscribe to my Youtube channel Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show Ways to support the show: Buy me a coffee (support the show) Dashery/TeePublic Store: Classic Conversations merch and more! Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop. Thanks for checking out Classic Conversations ! Dive into pop culture nostalgia with comedian Jeff Dwoskin as he hosts the best TV and film interviews. Hear inspiring stories from actors, comedians, musicians, and pop culture icons about the road to success. Part comedy, part drama—always entertaining.

Oct 27

Actor Anthony Hill brings humor and heart to this lively chat about his journey from college football player to beloved cardiothoracic surgeon on Grey's Anatomy . From growing up obsessed with Halloween costumes to learning the craft of acting through persistence, Anthony shares how he turned creative curiosity into a steady Hollywood career. He opens up about his early TV experiences, how Grey's Anatomy changed his life, and the fun chaos of playing a doctor who (thankfully) doesn't perform real surgery. Episode Highlights Finding the Spark: How childhood Halloween costumes inspired Anthony's love for performing. From Football to Film: His pivot from dreams of the NFL to acting full-time. Early Breaks: Stories from his first TV roles on NCIS , Silicon Valley , and It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia. Grey's Anatomy Secrets: Behind-the-scenes of fake surgeries, cast chemistry, and life as Dr. Winston Ndugu. Lighthearted Laughs: What it's really like to fake medical jargon, improv with comedy legends, and work in Shondaland. You're going to love my conversation with Anthony Hill IMDB Instagram Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host): Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Subscribe to my Youtube channel Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show Ways to support the show: Buy me a coffee (support the show) Dashery/TeePublic Store: Classic Conversations merch and more! Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop. Thanks for checking out Classic Conversations ! Dive into pop culture nostalgia with comedian Jeff Dwoskin as he hosts the best TV and film interviews. Hear inspiring stories from actors, comedians, musicians, and pop culture icons about the road to success. Part comedy, part drama—always entertaining.