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It is a privilege to welcome Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Alvin Garrett to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.   Hailing from Birmingham, Alabama, the Grammy-nominated Alvin Garrett is commanding the attention of hearts and minds with his transcendent artistry. With a 25-year career defined by musical brilliance, lyrical depth, and cultural impact, he unveils the next chapter in his evolution with the release of his electrifying new single, "Roll Slide Roll." With this song, Alvin taps into his Southern Roots to deliver a dance floor/skating, rink/backyard cookout-ready anthem that is Roll Slide Rolling up the charts! As an award-winning songwriter, his credits include artists such as Joe, Kelly Rowland, Fantasia, Ruben Studdard, Deitrick Haddon, Trin-1-Tee 5:7, and more! Most recently, he was nominated for the Stellar Awards' "Song of the Year" for "Clap My Way" by gospel artist Micah Lee. As an R&B artist, Garret's highest charting single, ‘"Til I Get Back To You," soared to #15 on the Billboard R&B charts in 2023. With five albums under his belt, he has plenty of amazing music for new fans to discover. Alvin Garrett is currently promoting a soulful live experience called "Songs in the Key of AG." In this one-of-a-kind performance, Garrett honors the timeless music of Al Green while seamlessly infusing his own amazing original songs. In addition to sharing the same initials as Al Green, he delivers that same defining sound of Southern R&B-music rooted in soul, gospel, and blues wrapped in authentic storytelling. In 2024, he received one of the nation's highest civilian honors - the Presidential Medal of Honor - awarded by President Joe Biden in recognition of his transformative contributions to music and social justice through his community-based initiative, The Write Life. This innovative songwriting therapy program, implemented in partnership with the nationally acclaimed nonprofit The Dannon Project, teaches justice-involved and at-risk youth to "write" their lives through positive planning and goal-oriented mindsets. Whether on stage, in the studio, or in the heart of underserved communities, he is the embodiment of artistic integrity and purpose-driven impact. With his voice as his instrument and his mission as his compass, Garrett is not just making music - he's making an impact. On the latest episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Alvin Garrett spoke about the first time that he heard Fantasia, Joe, Kelly Rowland, and Ruben Studdard sing the songs that he co-wrote, and talked about his latest project, Talk to Her Like This. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a privilege to welcome Chicago-born producer, rapper, singer, and songwriter Vi City to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.   He got his start at the Midwest city’s storied Wild Hundreds, a proving ground that shaped his raw, reflective sound and entrepreneurial mindset. Blending lived truth with elevated ambition, Vi’s music captures both the weight of his origins and the clarity of an artist who built his own lane.   Vi City’s catalog has quietly amassed significant independent momentum. His latest project has generated over 2.8 million streams, with singles charting number 21 on the iTunes Hip-Hop chart, while his breakout record “U Deserve” peaked at number 55 on the iTunes R&B chart. His audience continues to expand globally, now reaching 97K monthly Spotify listeners, over 7 million YouTube views, and over 228K Instagram followers.   He first entered the industry working with Mathaus Ent. and Chilly of 1st & 15th (Lupe Fiasco), before partnering with DJ Skee to release a mixtape through Skeeters TV. He later co-penned Nelly’s “Country N*** Fly (CNF)” and secured a publishing deal with Universal Music Publishing Group.   As a writer, producer, and collaborator, Vi has worked across hip-hop’s mainstream and underground, including writing and featuring on Sir Michael Rocks ft. Twista’s “Some Ish” from the number one debut album Banco, and collaborating with hitmaking duo Da Internz (Rihanna, Justin Bieber, Nicki Minaj, and Nas). His music has also been featured on FOX’s hit series Empire and HBO’s Entourage. Recent collaborations include Moneybagg Yo, Tee Grizzley, and Lil Poppa, further cementing his relevance across generations of hip-hop. Beyond his own artistry, Vi City is the founder of Hundreds Entertainment, a music and film production company dedicated to developing emerging talent and expanding independent creative ownership.  On the latest episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Vi City shared Hundreds Entertainment’s origin story, his reaction when Empire and Entourage inserted his music into their shows, and some of the stories behind his most-streamed Spotify songs. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

A Note from Jacob: Welcome to the 425th episode of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast!  When I started this platform back in November 2019, I did not know that this journey would take me to interview authors, Emmy-winning actors and journalists, Grammy-winning producers, independent recording artists, my fellow podcasters, Reality TV legends, and social media influencers. Thank you to all my guests and their respective media teams for taking time out of your schedules to trust me and my platform! Also, a special shoutout to my family and friends who encouraged me throughout my journey! Finally, I want to say “Thank You” to everyone who has listened to or watched an episode! I appreciate your continuing support!   I am thrilled to welcome back my friend, author, and content creator Marcus J. Anthony, to Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar!   The Dublin native is an upcoming author who previously published Love of Sacrifice, then rebooted it as The World of Antheric. Some who have known Marcus from school found the news of his book a surprise, as Marcus struggled through school dealing with dyslexia and social anxiety. Marcus lacked focus in his studies and would spend most of his time daydreaming about flying on dragons or waving a wand to cast a spell. Fantasy fueled Marcus’s mind. However, it caused him to fall behind in school. He would be exempt from Irish language studies, which was disheartening for him, as he could not translate his country's original language. When Marcus was ten, he suffered from sleep anxiety. So, he decided to use his strong imagination to create ‘movies’ in his head that would help him sleep. That was when some of the characters in this novel were created. In the years that followed, the movies in his head developed into a magical world that Marcus could not resist writing about. Creative writing became his passion, and Marcus would not allow his dyslexia to stop him from achieving. He spent most of his teenage years (staying home on weekends) writing and learning until he found his writing style.   Marcus has a great love for animals and supports charities. He is vocal about awareness of animal abuse, which is expressed in the story through Jenin’s past experiences. Marcus has four cats: Summer, Junior, Littler, and Leia.  In 2017, Marcus fell into a dark spell of generalized anxiety and depression, which delayed the release of his book. The Black Grawth came from his experience with anxiety and panic attacks. And Gaul – the Dark Lord- represented the darkness of depression. With the help of treatment, family, and meditation, Marcus found strength and happiness again and continues to write, drawing inspiration from the world around him.   Since 2024, Marcus J. Anthony has established EliteMJ TV, which started with the original fan fiction series, Pokémon Next Generation. Set 10 years after Ash Ketchum won the Pokémon World Championship, the series follows Johto native Marc Masters, who hero-worships Ash, and travels across Kanto with his friends, Rachel Oak-Stone and Anthony Green.  So far, Marc has earned five gym badges from Forrest (Brock’s youngest brother), Rain (Misty’s cousin), Sgt. Sara (Lt. Surge’s daughter), Skorcha (Blaine’s granddaughter), and Erika.  The trio also battled foes in the form of Nastina, Earl, and Blurt, and Team Justice.   In addition to earning gym badges, Marc uncovered a threat that could destroy the Pokémon world: this threat’s name is Mew-Z.  This Pokémon is unlike any creature that inhabits this world; it is pure evil. This monstrosity was the brainchild of Team Rocket leader Giovanni and brought to life by the sinister Dr. Yung and Evice, using genes from Mew, Mewtwo, Zygarde, and unknown factors.  While it is powerful, Mew-Z has not reached its final form.   According to Looker, for Mew-Z to reach its full potential, it must absorb both Mew and Mewtwo in one hour. The creature has begun hunting down mythical and legendary Pokémon, as well as Zygarde cells, to boost its power. Both Jirachi and Tapu Koko have fallen victim to this monstrosity.  He is also growing a following and assisting him with his misdeeds are Evice and a mysterious, red-haired woman named Commander, who kidnapped both Ash Ketchum and Pikachu at the series’ beginning.   On the 425th edition of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar, Marcus J. Anthony spoke about the upcoming Pokémon: The Next Champion, introduced Pokémon NG Chronicles, and previewed the developments of Tales of Old Galar and Tales of War. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a privilege to welcome Sarah Harralson to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.   Sarah is a Nashville-based country music singer-songwriter known for her honest storytelling, emotional lyrics, and memorable melodies. Music Connection Magazine described her music as “honest, bare-boned recordings that are authentic,” a quality that has helped her build a growing international audience. Originally from Knoxville, Tennessee, Harralson began writing songs at the age of 10, inspired by her bluegrass musician grandfather. Growing up surrounded by country, rock ’n’ roll, soul, and pop influences, she ultimately gravitated toward country music for its storytelling tradition. After moving to Nashville to attend Belmont University, she quickly established herself as both a songwriter and a recording artist. In 2015, she signed her first publishing deal with Raindrop Music, founded by Scotty Schultz (drums, Shooter Jennings), who also produced her country EP Watered Down Whiskey. Harralson later signed with Busy at Play Publishing, the company of Johnny Garcia (guitar, Garth Brooks & Trisha Yearwood), after co-writing the song “Radio Static.” Her releases have included the album Whiskey History (2022) and Outside the Lines (2023), on which she served as a producer on several tracks. Her music has charted 26 times on iTunes and earned nominations from the World Songwriting Awards, Josie Awards, and the International Singer-Songwriters Association. In 2024, Harralson signed a multi-year publishing and label deal with Synapse Publishing & Entertainment, a woman-owned company. She is also collaborating with the company on a documentary project titled Women Behind the Lyrics. As a performer, Sarah Harralson has opened for artists including Aaron Tippin and Bucky Covington and has appeared on festival lineups alongside Jason Aldean and Old Dominion. She has performed at notable Nashville venues such as The Bluebird Cafe, The Listening Room Cafe, and The Analog at Hutton Hotel, as well as the Gibson Stage on Today in Nashville on WSMV4. Her music has also reached audiences through film and television placements, including the Hulu series Living for the Dead, the Norwegian television show Norge Bak Fasaden, and a Google Ireland advertising campaign. In 2023, she toured Eastern Europe, performing with an international symphony in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria, with support from the America for Bulgaria Foundation. Beyond recording and touring, Harralson is an active songwriter for other artists and a passionate advocate for music’s healing power. She volunteers with Musicians On Call, performing for hospital patients, and in 2024, she received the Michael Solomon Volunteer Musician Award after playing for more than 19,000 patients since 2015. Harralson is also a producer, voiceover artist, children’s book author (Turtle Tears), and host of the iHeart Media podcast Takin’ a Walk Nashville, which has reached number two on the Apple Music podcast chart. Whether on stage, in the studio, or writing for others, she continues to build a career defined by authenticity, storytelling, and a belief in music's power to heal.   On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Sarah Harralson shared how Takin’ A Walk Nashville stands out in the podcast world and spoke about the upcoming highly anticipated documentary, Women Behind the Music. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a pleasure to welcome author and musician Ben Barbic to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.   At 5-years-old, Ben was already recording his voice and never stopped. Music gave him peace, a way out of chaos, and a place to build himself. It became his sanctuary early in life, and it is today.  The Reggae and hip-hop artist have released over 100 songs with artists and producers worldwide, building a global catalog over more than a decade. His music is a direct reflection of my inner struggles and the force that drives me forward. It comes from pressure, rebuilding, discipline, and forward motion. This isn’t trend music. It’s life music—music for forward motion and for people refusing to stay down.   Ben Barbic’s work has connected him with collaborators across the global reggae, hip-hop, and soul community, including Craigy T (T.O.K.), Dan Konopka (OK Go), Ras Fraser Jr., E.N. Young, and Bobby Hustle, working alongside producers whose credits include artists such as Mariah Carey, Usher, Chris Brown, Vybz Kartel, and Popcaan.  He also mixes and masters music from my studio, Where Dreams Sail Studios, in San Jose, California. Recently, Ben released his memoir, Rise & Climb: Finding Purpose Through Pain. From wild childhood rides on dirt bikes to nights in jail and the silent heartbreak of watching everything he loved burn to the ground, Ben Barbic has lived a life shaped by trauma, trial, and tenacity. Rise and Climb is his raw, unfiltered memoir of a boy who lost it all—twice—and found purpose through pain. Growing up in the shadow of California redwoods and inside the roar of a motorcycle shop, Ben’s early life was defined by adventure and grit. But after losing his home to a wildfire, living in a trailer without running water, and battling panic attacks and loss, Ben turned to the only things that gave him power—music, movement, and resilience. Through cassette tapes, weight benches scorched by fire, and the soul of hip-hop and reggae, Ben began to rebuild. He became a nationally performing recording artist, an endurance athlete, and a proud father, husband, and entrepreneur. Unflinchingly honest, heart-wrenchingly personal, and ultimately triumphant, Rise and Climb is a memoir and self-help book for anyone who has ever faced the fire and wondered if they could survive it. Ben Barbic shares his journey, tools, and motivations to show readers that they can, too. On this edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Ben Barbic spoke about the stories behind his most-streamed songs, such as “Next Level” and “These Dreams.” Ben also chatted about his memoir, Rise & Climb: Finding Purpose Through Pain. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a thrill to welcome back my friend, singer-songwriter Max Bartos, to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.   Max is New York’s resident motherfolker! His folk and Americana music pairs introspective lyricism with anthemic folk-rock energy. As the frontman of Max Bartos and the Misfit Toys, he crafts songs rooted in storytelling and emotional honesty, with a modern acoustic sound shaped by influences such as Mumford & Sons and Noah Kahan.   His latest release, Waiting At The Crossroads (2025) captures a defining chapter in his artistic evolution, expanding his folk and Americana foundation with richer dynamics and a more confident, fully realized identity.   Fresh off a 30-date U.S. tour with The Misfit Toys, he continues to build momentum on the road. This spring, he joined acclaimed singer-songwriter Brendan James as direct support on a 14-date national tour from March 11 through April 1, further cementing his reputation as a compelling and emotionally resonant live act.   Recently signed with Noble Steed Music, Max is steadily carving out his place in the modern folk landscape through intentional songwriting, immersive performances, and a growing catalog that connects deeply with listeners.   On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Max Bartos shared the band’s origin story, the stories behind his most-streamed Spotify songs, and supporting Branden James. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

Planet Comicon Kansas City has wrapped up its 2026 edition! Thousands of pop culture lovers traveled to the Kansas City Convention Center to meet some of their favorite celebrities, creators, and cosplayers. They also attended panels, fawned at artwork, bought merchandise, and created countless memories.    As always, Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar is my take on the 2026 Planet Comicon Kansas City.   Here was my experience:  I also want to give a shoutout to the incredible staff members and volunteers who made the weekend memorable! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It’s the second Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar EXCLUSIVE of 2026!   I am so excited and honored to welcome content creator and entrepreneur Nick Uhas back to the podcast!   Reality TV veterans first met the former professional stunt skater on the polarizing Big Brother 15, where he was the second evicted houseguest of the season. After the show, Nick continued creating science content on his YouTube channel (formerly Nickapedia). Nick gained international prominence after appearing on the Australian version of The Today Show, performing three of his most popular experiments.  He continued to showcase his scientific knowledge on NBC’s The Today Show and The Dr. Oz Show.   In 2017, Nick auditioned for America’s Got Talent: Season 12. He had Simon Cowell, Mel B, Howie Mandel, and former judge Heidi Klum inhale balloons filled with sulfur hexafluoride, recruited both Howie and Mel B to make elephant toothpaste on the Pasadena Civic Center stage, and had the longest-reigning judge mix hot water with dry ice. While he made it to Judge Cuts, Simon buzzed his act, and Nick’s time on the long-running NBC talent competition came to an end. He also spent time as the host of the popular Netflix glassblowing competition Blown Away for three seasons (2019, 2021, and 2022).   Throughout the years, Nick Uhas went viral on social media with his collaborations! From his various world-record elephant toothpaste experiments with David Dobrik and giant nitrogen rockets with Alex Mandel and TKOR, to creating deep-voice beatboxing with 80 Fitz and rocket skates with Steve-O, Nick’s content has accumulated over 109 million TikTok likes and 260 million views on YouTube.   For this Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar exclusive, Nick Uhas spoke about starting Uhas Media Company, climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro and Peak Lenin, and previewed a new product that could change the content creation game. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support. This episode includes AI-generated content.

It is the first Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Exclusive of 2026! I am very privileged to welcome two-time Emmy-nominated actress Sydney Mikayla to the podcast!   Sydney began her career in 2011, playing roles in various television shows, including Community, Criminal Minds, Fuller House, Hot in Cleveland, Parenthood, and School of Rock.  In 2019, she joined the cast of the long-running ABC soap opera General Hospital (GH) as Trina Robinson. Throughout her time on the show, she shared scenes with Brook Kerr (Dr. Portia Robinson), Maura West (Ava Jerome), William Lipton (Cameron Webber), Avery Kristen Pohl (Esme Prince), and Emmy winners Nicholas Alexander Chavez (Spencer Cassadine) and Eden McCoy (Josslyn Jacks). She exited the soap in 2022, but not before earning two Emmy Nominations for the defunct Daytime Emmy Award category Outstanding Younger Performer in a Drama Series.   In addition to appearing in live-action roles, Sydney Mikayla lent her voice to various animated series. She voiced Maya in Craig of the Creek, Phoebe Rose in Dew Drop Diaries, Andy Smith in Invincible Fight Girl, and Wolf in Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts.   Recently, Sydney Mikayla starred in Sarah T. Schwab’s haunting psychological thriller Crybaby Bridge. The film focuses on Samantha (Mikayla), a quiet and observant 16-year-old who is pregnant, adopted, and increasingly unmoored after her affluent parents relocate the family from Philadelphia to rural Pennsylvania. Intended to protect her from bullying, the move instead deepens her isolation. As long-buried secrets about her adoption surface, what begins as an intimate family drama spirals into psychological suspense where trauma and the supernatural uneasily collide.    On this exclusive episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Sydney Mikayla spoke about her time on General Hospital, her voice-acting experience, and previewed Crybaby Bridge. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a privilege to welcome back my friend, Jeff Azar, aka Demi the Daredevil, to Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.   Hailing from El Paso, Texas, Demi, went from being the drummer to being a singer after the original lead singer, Jovan Ortiz, suddenly passed away. With this loss and his mental health struggles as catalysts, Jeff reimagined the band’s identity as an evocative blend of theatrical alt-pop, haunting soundscapes, and dark, introspective lyrics, creating anthems for other misfits who feel lost, misunderstood, and searching for their unique voice.   With influences ranging from Tim Burton to Edgar Allan Poe, Demi the Daredevil’s music delves into themes of identity, mental illness, existentialism, and the complexities of the human experience. This gives the listener a deep, relatable sense of meaning, creating a safe space and a sense of community for the underdog. Not only does the brand avatar reflect the audience’s identity, but it also offers a signature allure for collaborations and partnerships.   He has garnered over 25 million Spotify streams and over 1,000 pieces of fan art from the “devilins” (his fanbase). Buzzfeed, CBS, Crank That Frank, and Emo Nite have profiled Demi, while several songs, such as “Call in Dead,” have been featured on Trebel’s homepage and Pandora’s “AMP Fresh Cuts” playlist.   On this edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Demi the Daredevil spoke about his 10th anniversary and the stories behind several songs, including “Cursed House” with AViVA. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a privilege to welcome actor Kevin O’Sullivan to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.   Born in Los Angeles and raised in Potomac, Maryland, he splits his time between New York City and LA.  Kevin has enjoyed a long and lucrative career in the entertainment industry.  His first major role was on the iconic Beverly Hills, 90210, where he shared the screen with Jennie Garth, Jason Priestley, Ian Ziering, and Brian Austin Green. He also guest-starred on NBC/Peacock’s Days of Our Lives.    Kevin also starred in Cop Land, where he shared the screen with iconic actors including Sylvester Stallone, Robert De Niro, Harvey Keitel, Janeane Garofalo, Annabella Sciorra, and the late Ray Liotta. He was awarded Best Supporting Actor at the 2024 Egyptian American Film Festival in New York City for his portrayal of Officer John Nelson in The Deal. In addition, he also starred in Tai, Lord Hear Our Prayer, Unveiling Shadow, and the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival-nominated film Nepotism, Baby!     Throughout this decade, Kevin starred in various vertical series. Recently, he starred in In Love with My Mom’s Boyfriend with Robert Palmer Watkins and The Legal Queen with Ben Schreen.   On this edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Kevin O’Sullivan spoke about Cop Land’s upcoming 30th anniversary, working on numerous vertical series, and previewed Choleric. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a pleasure to welcome singer Dawn Derow to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.   A New Yorker by way of Cape Cod, Dawn has been captivating audiences for more than 17 years with extraordinary versatility, moving seamlessly from Puccini to Brandi Carlile to Broadway and jazz. A graduate of the Boston Conservatory, she has performed on world-class stages including Carnegie Hall, Jazz at Lincoln Center, and London’s The Pheasantry, as well as leading New York City venues such as 54 Below, Birdland, The Green Room 42, and the Laurie Beechman Theatre. Beyond New York, she has headlined nationally at the Dakota Jazz Club, Café Centro, Provincetown’s Post Office Café, and appeared with the Cape Cod Symphony Orchestra.   Dawn Derow’s artistry has earned her three MAC Awards (including Best Female Vocalist and Best Album), a Bistro Award, and glowing reviews for acclaimed shows like Revolution, Legit: A Classical Cabaret, and My Ship: Songs from 1941. Her album My Ship won Best Album at the MAC Awards, with Cabaret Scenes hailing her as “a supremely accomplished artist” with “a remarkable range.” Her acclaimed tribute, Dawn Derow Sings Eydie Gormé (played both at Birdland and 54 below, NYC), was praised for its vocal fireworks and recently played to packed houses, cementing her reputation as one of cabaret’s most versatile performers. Equally at home on the theatrical stage, Dawn has starred as Antonia in Man of La Mancha, Cathy in The Last Five Years, Adele in Die Fledermaus, and most recently Francesca in The Bridges of Madison County at the Delray Beach Playhouse — a performance that earned rave reviews and the award for Outstanding Actress in a Mainstage Production (2025). Internationally, she has brought her cabaret artistry abroad with sold-out runs at London’s Pheasantry (My Ship, 2023; Women’s Work, 2024) and a recent premiere of Because I Can/Porque Yo Puedo in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Expanding her creative reach, Dawn co-produces Dorothy Dandridge: The Musical and originated the role of gossip columnist Hedda Hopper in its workshop. Offstage, she teaches mobility classes, provides Thai massage, and supports older adults in wellness programs. She divides her time between New York and Florida, returning to Provincetown each summer to perform.   On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Dawn Derow spoke about the feeling of performing on Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center’s hallowed stages and her latest single, “Everything’s Going to Be Alright,” which features a surprise video appearance with Dawn’s collaborator, Sean Harkness. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a thrill to welcome back my friend, Ed Eason, to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast. Reality TV fans first met Ed when he appeared on the inaugural season of Netflix’s The Circle. He competed alongside his mom, Tammy. While they entered the game in the eighth episode, they were eliminated on the eleventh episode.  After The Circle, Ed appeared on The Challenge 37: Spies, Lies and Allies as a replacement for Nam Vo, who was medically disqualified.   He won his first elimination with Survivor Romania alum Emy Alupei and was kept out of eliminations thanks to partners Ashley Mitchell and Tori Deal. However, Ed’s run ran out during the season’s eleventh episode when he lost to fan favorite Kyle Christie in the iconic Pole Wrestle elimination.   He returned to The Challenge 39: Battle for a New Champion. Ed won three daily challenges and survived both the Control and Chaos portions of the game but was eliminated in the middle of the season’s Conquest phase.   Recently, Ed expanded upon his passion for bodybuilding and entered the NPC Pennsylvania Muscle Championship. He came in first place in the novice Men’s Bodybuilding division, second place in the open lightweight-heavyweight division, and third place in classic physique. Ed also co-founded E3 Supplements.   On Ed Eason’s second go-around on Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, he spoke about missing The Challenge 40: Battle of the Eras and The Challenge 41: Vets & New Threats, going on a bodybuilding journey, and how E3 Supplements stand out in the fitness and wellness industries.   Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

It is a pleasure to welcome Shruti Sadana as a guest to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.   With a rich background both in front of the camera as an actor and behind the scenes in production, Shruti brings a uniquely holistic perspective to managing talent — one that honors the whole person, not just the career. As Co-Founder of Hey Beauti Magazine, a platform rooted in deep and authentic conversations, Shruti partnered with Nicola Haggins to amplify voices and stories that inspire real connection. She produced compelling cover shoots featuring talents like Sarah Shahi, Steve Howey, and Emmanuelle Chriqui, and conducted intimate interviews with stars including Megan Fox, always drawing out the essence beneath the surface. During the pandemic, Shruti Sadana’s journey took a powerful turn when she became certified in Quantum NLP Coaching and hypnosis. This transformative training awakened her to the profound power of healing subconscious patterns and aligned her with her soul’s true calling. Her purpose deepened further through the Beyond Bulletproof program with Evy Poumpouras, where she embraced a mission to serve artists with fierce intuition, compassion, and integrity.   Known for her intuitive insight, emotional intelligence, and unwavering commitment to her clients, Shruti is a game-changing manager who guides artists to breakthroughs not only professionally but personally — helping them rise as empowered, authentic forces in the industry.   On this edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Shruti Sadana spoke about how she launched Unveild Artist Management and how this organization stands out in the entertainment industry’s performer and creator management space. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.

Author’s Note: Because Karen B. Gerson and I discussed serious topics related to mental health on the podcast, if you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, please visit the Mental Health Hotline website or call 9-8-8.   It is a thrill to welcome my longtime mentor, Karen B. Gerson, to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast. Karen is a writer, advocate, and survivor who uses her lived experience with mental illness to break stigma and inspire understanding. Her debut memoir, I Should Not Be Here, explores the ripple effects of OCD, PTSD, and depression—not only on those who live with them, but on the families and communities who love and support them. Through honesty, vulnerability, and hope, Karen’s work reminds readers that survival itself is an act of courage. A lifelong educator and community leader, Karen has dedicated over twenty years to program development and youth engagement within the Jewish community. She has also worked extensively with First Call, an organization that reduces the impact of substance use disorder, where she serves on the Board of Directors. Born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, Karen earned her Bachelor of Science in K–8 Education from The Ohio State University and her Executive Master of Public Administration from the University of Missouri–Kansas City. She has lived in Leawood, Kansas, for more than 25 years with her husband, Jeffry, their two sons, Gilli and Eitan, their dog Skeye, and Stuart the "big" bunny. When she's not writing, Karen can be found watching her boys play soccer, cheering for Sporting Kansas City, practicing yoga, traveling to her favorite places like Israel and Costa Rica, and celebrating life's moments with friends and family. On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Karen B. Gerson spoke about incorporating the voices of her loved ones into her memoir and shared tips to support loved ones’ mental health journeys! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jake-s-take-with-jacob-elyachar--4112003/support.