Advertise on podcast: Fun for All Ages with Frank Santopadre

Oscar, Grammy and Emmy-winning filmmaker Morgan Neville ("20 Feet from Stardom," "Lorne," "Paul McCartney: Man on the Run") and journalist and author Josh Karp ("A Futile and Stupid Gesture," "Orson Welles's Last Movie: The Making of the Other Side of the Wind") join Frank to discuss the advantages (and challenges) of the documentary form, the importance of maintaining an emotional distance from subjects, the elusiveness of Lorne Michaels, the courage and convictions of Fred Rogers, and the complicated genius of Orson Welles. Also in this episode: Paul Simon issues a warning, John Huston chooses drinking over driving, Josh captures the turbulent history of the National Lampoon and Morgan directs the highest-grossing biodoc of all time. PLUS: In praise of "TV Funhouse"! Peter Bogdanovich sends up Jerry Lewis! Steve Martin consults his therapist! Morgan shares his admiration for Preston Sturges! And Josh befriends the legendary Bob Rafelson! Join our Patreon today! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/FunForAllAgesPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Frank is joined by producer Rich Brown ("The Daily Show," "Jimmy Kimmel Live") and bestselling author Kliph Nesteroff ("The Comedians: Drunks, Thieves, Scoundrels and the History of American Comedy") for an absurdly funny—and in-depth!—conversation about a favorite topic: failed (and forgotten) celebrity business ventures, including Alan Hale's Lobster Barrel, Gary Burghoff's Frozen Yogurt, Johnny Weissmuller's Tropical Wonderland, Pat Boone's Dine-O-Mat, Phyllis Diller's Philli Dilli Chili, and of course, Cesar Romero's Cappuccino Ristorante. Also in this episode, Gene Rayburn loses his shirt, Stu Gilliam loses his cool, Jerry Lewis steals Dean Martin's maître d' and Mickey Rooney introduces the donut-shaped hot dog. PLUS: Art Linkletter goes bowling! Jack Klugman goes to court! Rich visits Twitty City! Kliph hangs with Jack Carter! Motorhead plays Billy Barty's Roller Fantasy! And Redd Foxx is named police chief of Taft, Oklahoma! Join our Patreon today! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/FunForAllAgesPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this conclusion of a two-part episode, Frank is joined by writer-producer-comedian-director Judd Apatow for an intimate conversation about finding the truth, collaborating with heroes (and family members), the upside of hoarding, the timelessness of "George Carlin's American Dream," and the perfection of "Broadcast News," "Groundhog Day," and "The Truman Show." Also in this episode: Jay Leno phones the house, Mike Nichols pens a fan letter, Steve Martin and Martin Short create a "joy machine" and Judd recalls "brushes with greatness" with Red Buttons, Mickey Rooney and Sir Paul McCartney. PLUS: The genius of David Lynch! The music of Loudon Wainwright! "Bob & Don: A Love Story"! Albert Brooks hangs with Harry Nilsson! Eddie Vedder pays tribute to Garry Shandling! And Judd reflects on his friendships with Norman Lear, Pee-wee Herman and Harold Ramis! Join our Patreon today! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/FunForAllAgesPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Frank sits down with writer-director-producer Judd Apatow for a candid, in-depth conversation about the glory days of comedy albums, the "magical world" of show business, the wisdom of Mel Brooks, the spiritual guidance of Garry Shandling and Judd's recently released scrapbook/memoir, "Comedy Nerd: A Lifelong Obsession in Stories and Pictures." Also in this episode, Warren Beatty offers sage advice, Totie Fields "unmasks" Gene Simmons, LeBron James wows the critics and Frank and Judd praise the fearlessness of "The Larry Sanders Show." PLUS: Defending "Ishtar"! The prophecy of "The Cable Guy"! The versatility of Carl Gottlieb! The comedy stylings of Graham Parker!? And Judd previews his upcoming Norm Macdonald documentary! Join our Patreon today! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/FunForAllAgesPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this conclusion of a sentimental and laugh-filled episode, producer-comedian Rich Brown, actor Steven Weber and writer-producer (and this week's co-host) Allan Neuwirth join Frank to remember some much-loved New York-based kids' programs of the 1960s, '70s (and '80s), including "Shenanigans," "The Magic Garden," "The New Zoo Revue," "The Uncle Floyd Show" and the Mario Cantone-hosted "Steampipe Alley." Also in this episode, the panelists recall memorable encounters with Billy Barty, Grandpa Al Lewis, Telly Savalas and Groucho Marx, and listeners share THEIR local and regional kiddie shows, including "Ranger Hal," "Marshall KGUN," "Dusty's Treehouse," "The Brakeman Bill Show," and "Hatchy Milatchy." PLUS: Señor Kaboom! J. Fred Muggs! Zacherley, the Cool Ghoul! Rich visits the Nut Museum! Steven praises Bob & Ray! And Allan meets a Beatle! Join our Patreon today! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/FunForAllAgesPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Frank is joined by producer-comedian Rich Brown, actor Steven Weber, and writer-producer (and this week's co-host) Allan Neuwirth for a loving look back at local kids' programming of the 1960s and '70s, including "Wonderama," "Romper Room," "Let's Have Fun," "Birthday House" and "Winchell-Mahoney Time." In this episode, the boys recall their earliest TV memories and favorite characters (Professor Fingleheimer! Baron Barracuda! Norton Nork!) and pay tribute to beloved performers Sonny Fox, Bob McAllister, Chuck McCann, Soupy Sales and Paul Winchell. Also, Rich interviews White Fang, Allan kisses Bozo's nose, Frank remembers Beachcomber Bill and Steven accepts the "Name a Ventriloquist" challenge. PLUS: Otto & George! "The Christmas That Almost Wasn't"! Adam West teams with the Three Stooges! And Sandy Becker explains the JFK assassination!? Join our Patreon today! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/FunForAllAgesPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join our Patreon today! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/FunForAllAgesPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

To celebrate one of the most popular shows in television history, ABC's "The Love Boat," Frank sits down with author and historian Jim Colucci ("Love Boat Forever: An Unauthorized Tour of the Lido Deck"), actor-comedian Murray Hill ("Somebody Somewhere") and Vicki Stubing herself, actress Jill Whelan, for a lighthearted (and revealing!) conversation.) conversation about the long-running romantic comedy-drama. In this episode, the panel discusses the generosity of Aaron Spelling, the innocence (and absurdity) of the show's storylines, the gallery of legendary guest stars and the series' lasting impact on popular culture. Also, Murray teams with Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jill remembers Leslie Nielsen (and "Airplane!"), Jim shares a special moment with Ricky Martin and Frank shares a very special Jack Jones duet. PLUS: Remembering Ernie Anderson! Jill hangs with Andy Warhol! Debbie Reynolds works blue! Carol Channing eats a Twinkie! And "The Love Boat" inspires the "Amazing Colossal Podcast"! Join our Patreon today! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/FunForAllAgesPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Frank sets the FFAA time machine back to the decadent and "dancetastic" 1970s as comedian-author Frank DeCaro ("Disco: Music, Movies and Mania Under the Mirror Ball") and Grammy-nominated singer Cory Daye (Dr. Buzzard's Original Savannah Band, Kid Creole and the Coconuts) celebrate the songs, artists, movies, nightclubs and cultural impact of the disco era. In this episode, Dr. Buzzard meets James Bond, Ethel Merman records a camp classic, Frank weighs in on the infamous Disco Demolition Night and Cory recalls the heyday of the legendary Studio 54. PLUS: Remembering Mike Douglas! ABBA trading cards! The genius of Paul Jabara! "Playboy's Roller Disco & Pajama Party"! Frank interviews the Queen of Disco! And Cory hangs with RuPaul, Grace Jones and Cab Calloway! Join our Patreon today! ⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/FunForAllAgesPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the conclusion of a two-part episode, Frank is joined by producer-comedian Rich Brown ("Jimmy Kimmel Live," "Beyond Vaudeville") and "retrologist" and author Rolando Pujol ("The Great American Retro Road Trip: A Celebration of Roadside Americana") as they celebrate the 100th year of Route 66 and examine a uniquely "American story" told through luncheonettes, bowling alleys, neon signs, ghost towns and giant teapots. In this episode, the boys discuss long-lost stores and brands (Buster Brown, J.J. Newberry, Woolworth), the history of Googie architecture, the disappearance of drive-in theaters (and drive-in restaurants) and the fascinating tale of Truth or Consequences, New Mexico. Also, Rich remembers Monkey Island, Rolando tries to explain "The Thing," Frank continues his quest for the perfect egg cream and Chris Elliott moves into the former Nut Museum. PLUS: The Billy Goat Tavern! The Mermaids of Weeki Wachee! Yogi Bear replaces Jackie Gleason! KFC makes its debut...in Utah? And Rolando visits the last Blockbuster Video in America! Join our Patreon today! ⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/FunForAllAgesPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Frank "hits the open road" with producer-historian Rich Brown ("The Daily Show," "Jimmy Kimmel Live!") and award-winning journalist and "retrologist" Rolando Pujol ("The Great American Retro Road Trip: A Celebration of Roadside Americana") for a nostalgic, coast-to-coast audio tour of roadside attractions and destinations, including South of the Border, Lucy the Elephant, Hildebrandt's soda shop, the Creston Dinosaur, the All American Hamburger Drive-in and Nipper, the world's tallest dog statue (to name a few). Also in this episode: Burma Shave makes advertising history, Bob Barker is immortalized in corn (!), New York City shutters its last remaining speakeasy and Rolando explains the origins of "duck architecture." PLUS: Remembering Wetson's! The Disneyland of supermarkets! The legend of Tom Carvel! Rich visits a mummy! Frank gives tours of the "Brady Bunch" house! And Rolando reveals the "GOAT" of roadside attractions! Join our Patreon today! ⁠⁠Patreon.com/FunForAllAgesPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

To mark the 10th anniversary of SerlingFest, Frank celebrates the life, career and legacy of one of his favorite storytellers: legendary writer-producer Rod Serling. Joining him on this "journey into a wondrous land" are co-host Josh Chambers, author Nicholas Parisi ("Rod Serling: His Life, Work and Imagination") and educator and author Anne Serling ("As I Knew Him: My Dad, Rod Serling"). In this episode, the panel looks back at Serling's immense body of work, his clashes with networks and sponsors, his commitment to social justice, his affection for "obsolete men" and his little-known appreciation of Mel Brooks, Mad magazine and..."The Flintstones"? Also: Frank defends "Night Gallery" (and lauds "The Loner"), Josh screens "Requiem for a Heavyweight" for high school students, Nick writes the definitive history of Serling's work, and Anne discovers "The Twilight Zone"...on a neighborhood playground. PLUS: Richard Matheson at 100! "Will the Real Martian Please Stand Up?" Blake Edwards' "Planet of the Apes"!? Serling befriends David Brenner! And Anne "finds" her dad in the episode "In Praise of Pip"! Join our Patreon today! ⁠Patreon.com/FunForAllAgesPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Frank celebrates one year of "For for All Ages" with a special all-trivia show, featuring the creative team behind the podcast: producer Andrew Capone, social media directors Josh Chambers, Michele Mantynen and Dino Proserpio and webmaster John Seals. In this episode, listeners grill the FFAA staff with super-tough (to say the least) stumpers about sitcom spinoffs, celebrity headstones, the British Invasion, "The Incredible Mr. Limpet," and the cinema of Carl "Alfalfa" Switzer (to name just a few topics). Also in this episode: Dick Shawn rocks out, Terry Southern joins forces with Harry Nilsson, National Lampoon spoofs a literary classic, and "Monty Python's Flying Circus" makes its U.S. television debut. PLUS: Jim Henson! HAL 9000! "Never Say Never Again"! The many faces of Vincent Gardenia! Gilbert voices Mister Mxyzptlk! And the team remembers the late, great Mike McPadden! Join our Patreon today! Patreon.com/FunForAllAgesPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Frank takes a loving look behind the scenes of Stanley Kramer's ambitious, audacious, all-star epic "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World" with the help of producer and Emmy-winning screenwriter Scott Alexander and film historian and author James Curtis ("Comedy is a Grim Business: The Making of "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World.") In this episode, the boys break down the film's casting, audience reactions and enduring legacy, James dispels long-held rumors and myths, Scott marvels at the film's chaotic production and James and Scott share happy memories of seeing the movie at the famed Cinerama Dome. Also: Stan Laurel turns down a cameo, Marvin Kaplan babysits Jonathan Winters, Uncle Miltie brings his own writer on set (!) and Edie Adams warns Stanley Kramer about working with comedians. PLUS: The inventiveness of William (and Tania) Rose! Buster Keaton (almost) plays Smiler Grogan! Jim Backus disses Buddy Hackett! James pens a bio of Spencer Tracy! And Scott has a (very) strange encounter with one of the film's stars! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Frank is joined by radio host Michele Mantynen, author and music journalist Dan Epstein and writer-visual artist-comedian Rachel Lichtman for a fascinating, far-ranging discussion about the secret history of Muzak, the genius of Burt Bacharach, the "aspirational" music and culture of the space-age 60s, the heyday of regional TV advertising and the creation of Rachel's brilliant "world-building" satires "Programme 4" and "Easy AM 66." Also in this episode: Jackie Gleason introduces "musical wallpaper," Dan and Michele extol the virtues of Esquivel, Rachel teams with Aimee Mann and Michael McKean (among others) and the panelists try to teach Frank the distinction between Easy Listening, MOR, Adult Contemporary and Beautiful Music. PLUS: In praise of Montovani! Herb Alpert presents Sergio Mendes! Quinn Martin meets the 5th Dimension! "Hal Ashby's 'Shampoo' on Ice"! And Dan and Frank geek out over 1970s-era baseball! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices